Listen, I think we need to shift our focus when it comes to actors and actresses. It’s time we look beyond the surface:
Character Over Facade: These artists pour their souls into their roles, spending years perfecting their craft. We should be applauding their dedication, their ability to bring depth to characters, and how they touch our hearts.
The Heart of the Matter: So many of them use their influence for the greater good, like raising awareness for causes or supporting charities. Take Sam Heughan, for example, with his My Peak Challenge – pushing for health and helping others. Don’t we want to acknowledge that part of them?
They’re Humans, Not Just Faces: Beneath the glamour, they’re just like us, with their own stories, struggles, and triumphs. Reducing them to mere eye candy is missing the point, like judging a book by its cover.
Mental Health Is Real: The constant scrutiny on appearance can really affect someone’s mental well-being. By valuing what’s inside, we’re contributing to a kinder, more understanding world for these folks.
Expand the Conversation: Let’s talk about their contributions to our culture, art, and society. Their talent, their voice, their actions – that’s what matters.
My Perspective: As a high functioning autistic woman, I see beyond the looks to the character. It’s baffling how often people miss the beauty of someone’s soul because they’re too focused on the outside. I see the details, the kindness, the passion – all the things that truly make a person who they are.
Protecting Their Humanity: If I had a partner who was an actor, I would do anything to protect him, even if it means telling people they really need to take a look at this and realize that actors are human beings just like the rest of us. They deserve to be seen for who they truly are, not just for how they appear on screen or in photos.
Let’s start a movement where we genuinely celebrate the essence of those in the entertainment industry. True beauty? It’s in their character, their kindness, and their impact on the world.
Sam Heughan, the Outlander star whose “cozy blanket energy” warms our hearts, is fighting hard to protect his fans from scammers—but remember, Sam can only do so much to protect people, and so people need to be the ones to use common sense and be more careful. With his genuine kindness, Sam has taken to Instagram in 2025, posting warnings in February and May about imposters pretending to be him, his family, or his team. He’s clear: “Myself (or manager/agent/family/etc) will NEVER reach out asking for money or contact. If it’s not verified, it’s not me” (Outlander’s Sam Heughan sends urgent warning to fans). Scammers are relentless, and every fan must follow Sam’s warnings, using caution to stay safe.
Imposters use deceptive tactics to exploit Sam’s fame, often creating fake profiles that mimic his name with numbers or variations to trick fans. On X, the scam situation is trickier—Sam hasn’t been active on his main account (@SamHeughan) for a while, so it no longer has the checkmark. However, it’s still his main account. Fans should verify it by checking the account’s history, linked accounts, and consistent posting over years. That’s still his account, so anyone using a checkmark on X to pretend to be him is not the real one. This can be confusing, especially since Sam’s more engaged on Instagram and busy with projects like Outlander and Sassenach Spirits. Here are specific examples of how scammers pretend to be him:
• Fake Profiles with Numbers: Scammers create accounts like “SamHeughan123,” “Sam_Heughan_01,” or “OfficialSamHeughan22” on Instagram or Telegram, adding numbers to mimic his verified handle (@samheughan). In May 2025, Sam exposed a scam message from a fake “Sabrina” linked to such an account, offering “personal dialogue” with him, which he called “FAKE” (Scots TV icon issues warning after criminals launch fresh wave). These profiles often use stolen photos or AI-generated images to appear real.
• Romance Scams: Fraudsters posing as Sam, using names like “SamHeughanOfficial7” or “SamHPrivate2025,” send private messages claiming romantic interest. In 2021, a fan lost £36,500 to a scammer who built an emotional connection over months (Women targeted by a fraudster pretending to be Sam Heughan). These accounts may use fake voice messages or manipulated videos for credibility.
• Fake Investment Schemes: Scammers under names like “SamHeughanInvestor1” or “SassenachSam99” promote fake opportunities tied to Sam’s Sassenach Spirits brand. In 2024, a grandmother lost £10,000 and her engagement ring to a fraudster claiming to offer a whisky business investment (Fraudster posing as Sam Heughan scams woman out £10,000). They use fake documents to seem legitimate.
• Charity Fraud: Imposters exploit Sam’s My Peak Challenge charity with profiles like “SamHeughanMPC2023” or “HeughanCharity4U,” soliciting donations for fake fundraisers. Sam warned about such accounts in 2019 (Sam Heughan warns fans about online scammers), and the tactic persists.
• Forged Identification: Scammers using names like “SamHeughanReal88” send fake passports or IDs to gain trust. A 2020 X post by @heughanverse noted imposters using fabricated IDs (X post by heughanverse), a method likely enhanced by AI in 2025 to create convincing forgeries.
These scams are growing more sophisticated, with AI-driven deepfakes and forged IDs making fraud harder to detect (When Fame Becomes a Liability). Sam’s doing his part—posting warnings and calling out fakes—but as an actor, not a cybersecurity expert, his reach is limited. Fans must use common sense to spot red flags, like unverified accounts or suspicious requests for money. On Instagram, verify Sam’s account (@samheughan) by checking for the blue checkmark. On X, confirm his main account (@SamHeughan) by its long history and consistent posts, even without a checkmark. Report suspicious profiles like “SamHeughan12345” to platforms like Instagram or X, and never send money or personal details to unverified sources. Community efforts, like X posts from @SimoneSkippy and @peekaboo_jen reporting fake accounts (X post by SimoneSkippy, X post by peekaboo_jen), show how we can amplify Sam’s warnings.
By heeding Sam’s advice and staying vigilant, we honor his care and protect our fandom. Use common sense: if a profile like “SamHeughan2025” messages you, it’s not Sam. Check for verified accounts, share warnings, and report scams to keep our Outlander community safe from imposters.
In a world that often feels divided, it is crucial to find moments of unity and understanding. As we observe both Pride Month and Veterans Month, we are presented with a unique opportunity to celebrate diversity and honor those who have served, while embracing the core values of love and respect that bind us all.
Pride Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, acknowledging the struggles and triumphs in the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. It is a month that champions love in all its forms, reminding us that everyone deserves to live authentically and without fear.
Veterans Month, on the other hand, is dedicated to honoring the brave individuals who have served in the military, sacrificing so much to protect the freedoms we hold dear. It is a time to express gratitude and support for those who have dedicated their lives to service.
At first glance, these two observances may seem distinct, but they share a common thread: the celebration of courage, resilience, and the human spirit. Both Pride Month and Veterans Month call us to reflect on the values of love, respect, and unity.
Growing up in a Christian home filled with love, kindness, respect, and understanding, I was taught by my dad to treat people how you want to be treated. This golden rule emphasizes that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, love, compassionate care, and respect. Yet, in today’s world, it often feels like these values are overshadowed by division and hostility. It seems as though we are being tested to see if we can truly love those who are different from us, challenging us to rise above and embrace the diversity of God’s creation.
In a society that often highlights differences, it is essential to remember the words of Jesus: “Love one another as I have loved you.” This call to love transcends disagreements and differences, urging us to see the humanity in each person. We may not always agree with each other’s lifestyles or choices, but we can choose to approach each other with kindness and understanding.
Love has the power to heal and transform. It can bridge divides and create a more inclusive and compassionate world. By embracing love and respect, we can honor both the LGBTQ+ community and our veterans, recognizing their contributions and the richness they bring to our society.
As we celebrate these important months, let us commit to walking the walk of love and acceptance. Let us listen, learn, and support one another, creating a world where everyone feels valued and respected. In doing so, we honor the spirit of both Pride Month and Veterans Month, and we take a step towards a brighter, more united future.
We start being more kinder to each other and less hostile and hateful to each other. We all need to live in harmony with each other, even if we don’t agree with others. It’s time for common sense and love to come back.
How do you know when it’s time to unplug? What do you do to make it happen?
I know it’s time to unplug when my soul feels heavy, like the constant buzz of screens is drowning out my inner voice. As someone who treasures authenticity and emotional depth, I sense it when I’m drifting from what grounds me—when I’m no longer fully present in the moment. It’s like a quiet call to return to what’s real.
To make it happen, I lean into nature’s embrace. Since I have to carry my phone, I tuck it away deep in my pocket, far from reach, and head out for a walk in the woods or by a stream. The crunch of leaves underfoot or the soft ripple of water pulls me back to the present. I might pause to journal my thoughts or sketch a fleeting scene—a tree’s shadow, a bird in flight—capturing the beauty that speaks to me. These simple acts feel like a reset, reconnecting me to my core.
I also find unplugging easier with someone who shares my love for life’s quiet wonders—a friend to wander with, sharing dreams or just soaking in the stillness together. It’s about carving out space for what’s genuine, whether alone or in good company. That’s when I feel recharged, ready to face the world with a clearer, more open heart.
If there’s one place in the world, besides the enchanting island of Kauai, Hawaii, that I yearn to visit first, it would undoubtedly be Scotland. From a young age, my fascination with Scottish culture was kindled by attending the Celtic festival in Arizona with my sister. This annual event was more than just a celebration; it was a gateway to a world steeped in tradition and history, igniting a lifelong dream to explore the rugged beauty of Scotland.
The allure of Scotland is undeniable. The thought of wandering through the majestic Highlands, with their rolling hills and mist-covered landscapes, fills me with a sense of adventure and wonder. I am eager to delve into the art of whiskey-making, to understand the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating Scotland’s renowned spirits. The rich tapestry of Scottish history, folklore, poetry, and literature beckons me to immerse myself in its depths, to walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like Robert the Bruce, who has long been one of my favorite historical icons.
Sam Heughan, the actor known for his role in “Outlander,” often speaks of Scotland’s magnetic charm, and I couldn’t agree more. There is something about this land that captivates the imagination and draws people from all corners of the globe, including America, to dream of visiting and perhaps even making it their home. The simplicity of life in Scotland, where one can connect with nature, explore new horizons, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, is a powerful allure.
In Scotland, I envision a place where I can find peace and clarity, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It is a land where the past and present coexist harmoniously, offering a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. As I dream of this journey, I hold onto the hope that one day I will set foot on Scottish soil, ready to embrace all that this remarkable country has to offer.
I want to pursue a career as a Visual Storyteller because it’s the perfect intersection of my passions for photography, graphic design, and blogging—a path that lets me capture the world’s beauty, create with purpose, and connect with others in a way that feels deeply authentic. This career isn’t just a job; it’s a calling to weave together visuals and words to inspire, uplift, and build a community grounded in kindness and creativity. It’s about seeing the world through a lens of wonder and sharing that vision to make others feel something real.
Photography, to me, is like capturing a heartbeat. Whether it’s the delicate shimmer of a tiny frog nestled in a rose, the fleeting glow of a sunset over a quiet valley, or the unguarded smile of someone lost in a moment, photography lets me freeze time and hold onto what makes life extraordinary. It’s not just about technical skill—though I love mastering my camera and editing tools like Lightroom—it’s about noticing the small, fleeting details that others might overlook. As a Visual Storyteller, I want my photographs to evoke emotion, to remind people of the beauty in the everyday, and to spark a sense of connection to the world around them.
Graphic design is where my imagination takes flight. It’s the thrill of transforming an idea into a visual that pops—a logo that captures a brand’s soul, a social media post that stops someone mid-scroll, or a poster that tells a story at a glance. I’m drawn to the challenge of blending colors, typography, and textures in tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva to create something that’s both beautiful and meaningful. It’s hard work, requiring precision and endless tweaking, but that process feels like a puzzle I was born to solve. As a Visual Storyteller, design is my way of giving ideas a voice, making the intangible feel vivid and alive.
Blogging is the thread that ties my creativity together, letting me share my heart and mind with the world. It’s where I can write about the story behind a photoshoot, the inspiration for a design, or a moment in nature that left me in awe—like the way a single leaf can hold a universe of patterns. Blogging isn’t just about words; it’s about building a space where people feel seen and inspired. I want to share tips, stories, and reflections that resonate with others who crave authenticity, whether they’re creatives, dreamers, or just people who love beauty as much as I do. As a Visual Storyteller, my blog will be a canvas for connection, a place to foster a community that values kindness, creativity, and the courage to chase what sets your soul on fire.
This career speaks to me because it demands both heart and hustle, qualities I admire in myself and others. It’s not about chasing glamour—it’s about the grit of learning new editing techniques at midnight, the patience of revising a design until it’s just right, or the vulnerability of sharing a personal story on my blog. I’m inspired by people like Sam Heughan, who pour authenticity and hard work into their craft, and I want to bring that same dedication to my work. As a Visual Storyteller, I see a future where my photos, designs, and words create a ripple effect—encouraging others to notice the beauty around them, to create with intention, and to connect with kindness.
Ultimately, I want to build a career that’s a reflection of who I am: someone who finds joy in the small moments, who believes in the power of creativity to uplift, and who wants to leave the world a little brighter. As a Visual Storyteller, I’ll weave together photography, graphic design, and blogging to tell stories that matter—to me, to my audience, and to the world.
Aging is often portrayed as a countdown—a signal to scale back dreams and accept limits. But I see it differently, inspired by Sam, who said, “I feel lucky to be getting older. The fact that I made it to 30 and then 40 was big enough. So I can’t get too down on getting older; otherwise, it kind of undoes everything I’ve fought for” (People, 2024). As a woman with mild autism, I’ve navigated a world that doesn’t always fit me, and I’ve learned that starting anew isn’t about age—it’s about hope, courage, and embracing the fight to live fully, even when fears linger.
Living with autism means facing challenges that often go unseen. Social interactions feel like decoding a cryptic code, sensory overload can turn a simple day into a storm, and society’s milestones—career, love, family—seem just out of reach. For eight years, I poured myself into a relationship that left me feeling small. My partner’s dismissive looks made me feel like an inconvenience, not cherished. When it ended a year ago, I was left wondering: will a man ever see my autism as a strength, not a flaw? Will I find someone who shares my dream of a family, who prioritizes my health as much as I do theirs?
That fear deepens when I think about motherhood. I know women in their 40s can still have children, even if it’s riskier—it’s not impossible, and that fuels my hope. If biology doesn’t align, adoption is a beautiful path; so many children need a loving home, and I could offer that. Yet, there’s an ache for carrying a child, shaped by a miscarriage I had years ago. I would have named her Faith if she’d been a girl—a name I chose before watching Outlander and finding solace in Claire’s shared grief. Knowing I’m not alone in that pain makes it a little lighter.
My physically demanding job adds another weight. I’m proud of my work ethic, but it drains me, leaving little room for self-care. Sleepless nights and exhaustion make relaxation feel impossible, and my passions—writing, creating, living adventurously—get pushed aside to survive. It’s a hard truth, wondering if I’ll ever have space to chase what lights me up or find a partner who truly sees me.
But I’m ready to change that. Inspired by Sam’s My Peak Challenge, a global movement to encourage physical and mental wellness through community and goal-setting (My Peak Challenge, 2025), I’ve committed to my own “peak challenge” to prioritize my health and live more boldly. One fear I’m grappling with is my phobia of heights. Some heights I can handle—a low balcony or a gentle hill—but others, like cliffs or tall towers, make my heart race. I’m not sure I’ll ever fully get over this fear, and that uncertainty weighs on me. Still, I don’t want to be boring—to myself or others. I want to feel the thrill of a new view, to live adventurously. Overcoming a phobia as an autistic woman, with heightened sensory sensitivities, is daunting, but small steps could help. Exposure therapy, such as watching videos of high places, standing on manageable heights, or trying virtual reality to ease into it safely, is a proven approach (American Psychological Association, 2023). A therapist who understands autism could guide me through sensory overload and anxiety, tailoring the process to my needs (Autism Speaks, 2024). Each step, even if I never fully conquer the fear, is a victory, proving I can push beyond my comfort zone.
Autism has taught me resilience—a mind that catches details others miss, a heart that feels deeply, a persistence that keeps me going. Like Sam, I’m learning to see aging as a privilege, a chance to fight for what matters. I deserve a life where my passions thrive, where rest isn’t a luxury, where I can chase adventure without fear of judgment. I deserve a partner who sees my autism as a gift, who wants a family as much as I do, who values my well-being. Starting something new feels overwhelming when you’re exhausted and doubting, but every step counts—whether it’s joining My Peak Challenge workouts, writing for an hour, testing a manageable height, or believing love and motherhood are possible.
To anyone feeling stuck or unseen: your struggles don’t define your worth, and your age doesn’t limit your potential. As an autistic woman, I know how hard it is to carve out space in a world that doesn’t always fit. But I’m holding onto hope that things will change for the better. Every day is a chance to start again—to pursue a passion, prioritize your health, face a fear (even if it never fully fades), or believe in a love that lifts you up. My autism isn’t a barrier; it’s a lens that helps me see what matters. I’m still writing my story, holding onto hope for a family—whether through birth or adoption—and for a partner who sees me as I am. Aging isn’t a deadline; it’s a doorway. And through it lies the chance to live adventurously, to love deeply, to become. No matter how many times I’ve stumbled, I know one thing: it’s never too late to start something new.
The hum of the world fades as I sit in the quiet of the car, the Kia emblem on the steering wheel a silent witness to this sacred moment. In my hand, the emerald ring gleams, its heart-shaped center a deep, vibrant green, like the first breath of spring in a Highland meadow. Small emeralds and diamonds, delicate as dewdrops, line the slender band, each stone a tiny star that catches the light and holds it close. My stepmother gave me this ring, a gift for my birthday yet to dawn and for my college graduation, a triumph carved from sleepless nights and steadfast will. I trace its edges, feeling the cool metal against my skin, the heart-shaped emerald steady as a heartbeat, and I know its place. With a breath as solemn as a vow spoken under ancient oaks, I slide it onto my wedding finger—not for another, but for me. A promise, fierce as a Fraser’s oath, to hold myself close, to honor the fire that burns within.
This emerald, my birthstone, is more than a jewel. Its heart shape is a mirror to my own, green as the quiet forests I imagine when the world grows too loud. Its depth soothes me, a color that drowns out the chaos—the buzz of fluorescent lights, the clamor of voices that tangle in my mind. I press my thumb to its surface, smooth and cool, and it’s like touching a still lake, ancient and unyielding, whispering that I belong to something vast. The smaller emeralds along the band hum in harmony, a rhythm I can feel, while the diamonds sparkle like moments of clarity—sharp, radiant, fleeting, but enough to light my way. Together, they are my anchor, my strength, a testament to the battles fought to claim my degree and the woman I am becoming.
This ring, given for my birthday and my graduation, carries the weight of both. The heart-shaped emerald is my refuge, grounding me through the nights when words wouldn’t come, when the weight of expectations pressed too hard. The tiny emeralds and diamonds are the victories—each step forward, each moment of understanding, each quiet pride as I crossed the stage to take my diploma. To wear it on my wedding finger is to swear an oath to myself, as binding as Claire’s vow to Jamie under a sky of endless stars. It’s a promise to cherish the way I feel the world—deeply, fiercely, in colors and textures others might not see. The emerald’s green hums against my skin, a steady rhythm I can trust when the world spins too fast. It says, You are enough. It says, Your heart is a diamond, your spirit an emerald, and no one can take that from you. I feel the weight of that vow, warm and heavy, like a hand clasped in mine across time—a love letter to myself, written in stone and light.
In the car’s quiet, the ring catches the light, its heart glowing, the diamonds winking like stars. When the noise of life presses in—when voices overlap or the hum of the engine feels too much—I touch the emerald, its cool green steadying me like a deep breath. The smaller stones along the band remind me of the small joys—the sound of rain on the windshield, the softness of a familiar scarf, the pride of holding my degree. This ring is my standing stone, my portal to myself, grounding me in a world that often feels too bright, too loud. Like Jamie, swearing his life to Claire, I swear to protect the spark within me, to nurture the dreams that flicker like starlight, to be my own refuge until the day I choose to share this vow with another.
In the quiet of my heart, where the emerald’s green sings and the diamonds’ fire dances, I am home. This ring, this vow, is my truth: I am enough. It is my graduation, my birthday, my promise to carry this truth like a flame, fierce and unyielding, through every storm, every mile, every beat of my heart.
Sam Heughan’s striking appearance may catch the eye, but it’s his inner beauty—his heart, mind, and soul—that truly defines his radiance. While physical attractiveness can spark initial interest, it’s a fleeting and superficial measure of a person’s worth. True beauty lies in the depth of someone’s character: the kindness they show, the wisdom they share, and the compassion they extend to others.
When we focus only on appearances, we risk missing the essence of who someone is—their passions, values, and the unique light they bring to the world. A beautiful face may fade with time, but a beautiful soul grows richer, touching lives in meaningful ways. By valuing the heart, mind, and soul over external looks, we cultivate deeper connections and a more authentic understanding of others. Let’s look beyond the surface and celebrate the qualities that make each person truly extraordinary.
Deep Thinking 