I was traveling home from the office, and just like every day, I was engrossed in my thoughts when I overheard my bus mates debating on an event that happened 60 years ago. One statement caught my attention, and I began to wonder how that person can be so sure of it. The event and that statement made are irrelevant here but, the confidence with which folks were throwing arguments at each other was mindboggling. Out of curiosity, I decided to Google a bit on the subject myself. It led to a train of thought and, later, it occurred to me that it’s not only this episode that needs researching but every incident in the past. Which basically, in one single word means, history!
History is wrong. History is written by the victors. History is important. These are Google’s suggestions when you type ‘history is’. And then when you type ‘distortion of’ what you see is surprising even more.
History is his story, ignoring the gender here. Now there is no word like ‘hertory’ to pacify the feminists. So, in other words, it is his version of story, his perception or view of the subject. Why, then do we see men and women of all ages debating and fighting over something that happened much before our time. History can never be accurate. There can be numerous versions to it depending on who is narrating it and his/her role in it. History is written by the victors, some great person thought. History is written by the losers too but it is the human behavior to go in pursuit of victors and victory or inclined to good over bad, God over devil. In simpler terms, winner over loser and rightly so for everyone is here to succeed and win and no one really looks at a loser and make notes under the ‘What not to do’ header. Losers are a part of history too; perhaps, the losing party presents a tweaked, manipulated outcome so as to alter the course of history. The losing party here has reference not only in case of a war but in general terms too.
Another important aspect that needs to be considered while discussing or reading history is how biased or neutral the author is. Has the subject influenced the author much that the narrative is more of personal opinion rather than the actuality of the events.
Does this mean we forget our history? Absolutely not! It should be remembered and well. But how do we spot the correct history? How do we know if the facts are right? We may never know.
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Why Black History Matters in America?
The United States of America is celebrating their 250th anniversary in 2026. I'm proud to be an American and as someone who was born here, I wouldn't imagine myself living anywhere else. This is a country where opportunities are possible. Where anyone can be successful in anything they desire to do. Equality, community, and togetherness are the backbones of what America is and should be about. However, we have an administration who wants to erase and disregard those who have made positive, meaningful impacts in our country, specifically Black figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou. President Trump and his administration have been constantly complaining and fighting against what they call the "Woke agenda". They use this excuse as a distraction from other issues they refuse to address, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and inflation. That equality is dividing America, when in reality, it's bringing us together. Being woke is not tied to a specific political party. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you can still care about other people and their plights. Compassion and empathy for others isn't tied to a political party, either. We were taught as children to treat others the way we want to be treated and not judge others because they're different from us. Caring about others isn't a personal attack on your beliefs. It doesn't make you any less of a person. People who are easily offended over African American figures, past or present, or anything related to it, are grasping at straws. Current and future generations need to know who people like Harriet Tubman and Shirley Chisholm were, especially in the classroom. Black History is part of American History. It should be recognized, not hidden or forgotten. Besides, you can't shield children from everything, just because your feelings are easily hurt.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 9 days ago in The Swamp
Vatican Announces Pope Leo Will Not Visit the United States This Year
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo will not make a planned visit to the United States this year, citing scheduling constraints and health considerations as the pontiff continues to focus on domestic church priorities and diplomatic missions closer to Rome. The announcement, made through an official statement from the Holy See Press Office, has prompted disappointment among American Catholics who had hoped for the Pope’s first pastoral trip to the U.S. since his election. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said the decision was reached after careful review of the Pope’s international travel calendar. “Given the demanding nature of the Holy Father’s pastoral commitments in 2026 and the need to prioritize regional visits and internal church affairs, a journey to the United States will not take place this year,” Bruni said. The Vatican emphasized that the decision does not reflect any diplomatic tension between Washington and the Holy See but rather practical and pastoral considerations. High Expectations for a U.S. Visit Speculation about a U.S. visit had grown over recent months following invitations from American bishops and senior political figures. The Catholic Church in the United States, which counts more than 70 million members, had hoped to host Pope Leo for major events, including youth gatherings and interfaith meetings. Several dioceses had begun preliminary planning for possible large-scale Masses and public appearances, particularly in cities such as New York, Washington, and Los Angeles. Church leaders said they respected the Vatican’s decision but expressed hope that a visit could take place in the near future. Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York said in a statement that American Catholics “remain eager to welcome the Holy Father when circumstances allow,” adding that the Pope’s message of unity and peace would be warmly received. Health and Travel Demands Although the Vatican has not disclosed specific medical concerns, officials acknowledged that Pope Leo has faced a demanding schedule since taking office. In recent months, he has undertaken trips to Latin America, Eastern Europe, and parts of Africa, focusing on conflict resolution, humanitarian issues, and strengthening ties with developing nations. Sources within the Vatican said advisers urged caution regarding long-haul travel, particularly to destinations that would require multiple large public events and extensive security arrangements. “International trips, especially to countries as large as the United States, require enormous physical and logistical effort,” said one Vatican official familiar with the planning process. “The Pope wants to conserve his strength for regions where his presence is most urgently needed.” Diplomatic Implications The absence of a U.S. visit this year also has diplomatic significance. Traditionally, papal visits to the United States include meetings with the president and appearances before Congress or at the United Nations, offering an opportunity for the pontiff to address global issues such as climate change, migration, and nuclear disarmament. Analysts noted that Pope Leo has so far focused his diplomacy on regions affected by war and economic instability, reflecting his emphasis on what he has called a “Church of the periphery.” “Not going to the U.S. this year fits his pattern of prioritizing countries that feel forgotten or marginalized,” said Lucia Ferrante, a Vatican affairs expert based in Rome. “It is a symbolic choice as much as a practical one.” Reaction from U.S. Catholics The announcement was met with mixed reactions among American Catholics. Some expressed disappointment, while others said they understood the Pope’s need to limit travel. “I was hoping to see him in person,” said Maria Sanchez, a parishioner in Texas. “But I respect his decision and pray for his health.” Catholic advocacy groups also pointed out that the Pope remains connected to U.S. faithful through regular messages and virtual addresses. In recent months, he has sent letters to American bishops addressing issues such as gun violence, racial justice, and the role of young people in the Church. Future Possibilities The Vatican made clear that the decision does not rule out a U.S. visit in 2027 or beyond. Officials said discussions with American church leaders would continue and that a future visit remains “very much desired.” In the meantime, Pope Leo is expected to travel later this year to several European and Middle Eastern countries, including a possible visit to Lebanon and Greece, as well as participation in major Vatican events marking the Church’s jubilee celebrations. As the Catholic world adjusts to the Pope’s evolving priorities, the message from Rome remains one of patience and continuity. “The Holy Father carries the United States in his prayers,” Bruni said. “When the time is right, he looks forward to visiting and strengthening the bonds of faith with the American people.” For now, U.S. Catholics will have to wait, watching from afar as Pope Leo continues to shape his global mission from Rome and beyond.
By Fiaz Ahmed a day ago in The Swamp
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