Ruchi Acharya's Blog, page 3
April 9, 2025
Fan Art or Foul Play? Ghibli’s Magic, Digital Bandits & the Copyright Circus
April 2, 2025
An Open Letter from a Fanfiction Lover
March 26, 2025
Mental Health in the Modern World: Coping with Stress and Anxiety
March 19, 2025
Emojis: Tiny Icons, Big Drama! Are They Making Us Smarter or Just Lazy?
March 13, 2025
9 Secrets for Stepping Back into History; They all begin with the letter ‘B.’ (Boardwalks)
March 6, 2025
5 Transformative Japanese Wellness Practices for Mindfulness and Balance
There was a time when I was constantly chasing things that, in the end, didn’t matter. Like a bee drawn to a bright flower, I’d go after what seemed shiny and appealing, only to realize it was artificial. I got caught up in the pursuit of materialistic things—fleeting desires, empty achievements—and while I knew they weren’t truly fulfilling, the pull was so subtle that it drained me without me realizing it.
That was until I discovered the powerful world of Japanese wellness practices, rooted in mindfulness and balance. These ancient concepts have been guiding people toward deeper peace and self-awareness for centuries.
When I embraced them, I found a profound connection with myself and a renewed sense of purpose—something I had been searching for in all the wrong places.
Helen Keller once said, “True happiness... is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” This resonated deeply with me. I realized I had spent too much time chasing goals that didn’t fulfil me. What I truly craved was purpose and peace—not from external possessions, but from within.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s pressures, I understand. But through the teachings of Japanese mindfulness, you don’t have to keep chasing fleeting desires.
These time-tested wellness practices offer clarity, balance, and true fulfilment. Let’s explore them together and see how they can transform your life for the better.
Have you ever wondered why people in Japan seem to age so gracefully? It's not just their diet or fitness routine that keeps them looking and feeling great—it’s their focus on mindfulness. It’s all about finding balance and being present. These practices have been passed down for generations and now people all over the world are learning how they can make life a little easier and a lot more peaceful.
Think about how you take care of your skin or your hair—it's routine, right? But what about your mind? We don’t always give it the same care. We keep pushing ourselves until we hit a wall.
Mindfulness is about taking those pauses, checking in with yourself, and slowing down. It's about letting your mind breathe so you can stay calm, grounded, and ready for whatever comes next.
Japanese wellness is about more than just staying in shape. It’s about looking after your mental health too.
Whether that means taking a few quiet moments to reflect, practicing meditation, or just walking outside to clear your head, these simple acts help bring everything back into balance. And when you’re balanced? You’re more focused, less stressed, and overall feeling better.
Finding Purpose in Life: How Japanese Concepts Guide You
We all have moments when we feel like we're just going through the motions, ticking off tasks without really connecting to why we’re doing them. It's easy to get lost in the busyness of life and forget what truly matters. But there are Japanese concepts that can help guide you toward a more meaningful life, starting with the idea of purpose.
In Japan, people are encouraged to take time to reflect on what really drives them.
It’s not about rushing to find your “one big purpose”—it’s about slowly discovering what gives your life meaning, something that keeps you grounded and moving forward.
The goal is to do what truly resonates with you, rather than chasing after external goals or trying to live up to someone else's expectations.
When you embrace a purpose that aligns with your values, it helps bring peace and balance to your life. You’re not just filling up time—you’re living intentionally, making choices that feel right for you. And that’s when you start to experience a deeper sense of fulfilment.
Stress Less, Live Better: Life-Changing Principles For Wellness
When I talk about these concepts, I’m not offering quick fixes or grand life lessons. These principles are tried and tested, offering profound benefits that stand the test of time. Across generations, people worldwide have adopted these ideas to manage stress and foster inner peace.
Let's dive into five powerful Japanese wellness concepts that can help rewire your life for a more peaceful, fulfilling existence.
The Japanese approach is about building habits that focus on small steps, long-term change, and self-reflection.
Ikigai: Discover Your Reason For Being
Ikigai. Funny how one word can hold so much meaning. Pronounced “ick-ee-guy,” it’s a Japanese concept that translates to "reason for being." Sounds simple, but it’s huge. It comes from iki (life) and gai (value or worth)—basically, what makes life feel worth it.
Imagine waking up every morning excited to do what you love, knowing that your work has a deeper meaning. Ikigai is all about finding that reason—the sweet spot where passion, mission, vocation, and profession meet. It’s the Japanese secret to living a life filled with purpose, satisfaction, and joy.
It isn’t about doing everything right—it’s about doing what feels right for you. Whether it’s writing, teaching, baking, or helping others, your Ikigai is what makes you jump out of bed in the morning. When you align your actions with your passions, everything just clicks into place.
Why You Should Practice Ikigai:
More Joy: Find what makes you feel alive and infuse that into your life.
Less Burnout: When your work is aligned with your purpose, it feels less draining and more fulfilling.
Clearer Direction: Ikigai helps you make decisions that align with your values.
Deeper Fulfilment: Living with purpose gives life meaning and fulfilment.
Oubaitori: Embrace Your Own Path
Ever feel like you’re on a treadmill, running fast but getting nowhere? Sometimes it feels like everyone else is out there sprinting ahead while you're still tying your shoes. But there’s a Japanese concept that could give you a refreshing perspective: Oubaitori.
This term is made up of kanji from four iconic trees: cherry, plum, peach, and apricot. Each of these trees blooms in its own time, never rushing, never competing—just growing as they’re meant to.
It’s all about embracing your unique path—just like how trees blossom at their own time. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, while plum trees take their sweet time in winter. No rushing, no comparisons. Oubaitori reminds us that we’re all on different timelines. You don’t have to follow someone else’s schedule. Your pace is your pace, and that’s more than okay—it’s perfect.
So, the next time you find yourself comparing your growth to someone else’s, just remember: your time will come. And when it does, it’ll be your moment to shine, without the pressure to be anyone else but you.
Why You Should Practice Oubaitori:
No Stress: Stop racing against others. You’ve got your own timeline.
Better Self-Awareness: Embrace your unique growth instead of chasing someone else’s path.
More Peace: When you stop comparing, life feels less like a competition and more like a journey.
More Confidence: Knowing your timing is right helps you trust yourself more.
Wabi-Sabi: Finding Beauty In Imperfection
Here’s a little secret—life doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. Wabi-Sabi is the Japanese philosophy that shows us how to embrace the art of imperfection. Instead of obsessing over flawless moments or perfect outcomes, Wabi-Sabi teaches us to appreciate life’s natural flaws. Think of that cracked coffee mug that’s become your favourite. Or the tree that’s lost some branches but still stands strong.
Wabi-Sabi reminds us that beauty is fleeting, and that's what makes it so precious.
It’s like enjoying the last sunset of summer—you know it’s almost gone, but that’s exactly what makes it beautiful. The key here is to slow down and really see the beauty in life’s messes.
Why You Should Practice Wabi-Sabi:
Appreciate the Now: Embrace life’s fleeting moments—imperfections make things interesting.
Let Go of Perfection: Perfectionism is exhausting. Wabi-Sabi helps you release that weight.
Feel More Connected: Imperfections help us see the shared humanity in everyone and everything.
Find True Beauty: Beauty is in the small, everyday moments—your cracked mug, the creaky door, the weathered stone.
Shikata ga nai: Acceptance in Life’s Flow
Let’s face it: there are some things you just can’t change. Like the weather, your friend’s mood, or the fact that the printer always jams at the worst possible time. Shikata ga Nai or Sho ga nai is a Japanese concept that teaches us to embrace life’s uncontrollable moments and let go of the need to fix everything.
Instead of fighting against the current, Shikata ga Nai reminds us to accept the things that can’t be changed. It’s about recognizing when to stop pushing and when to start flowing with life. When you practice this, you make room for peace and acceptance. It’s like letting go of a balloon and watching it float away—no stress, just calm.
Why You Should Practice Shikata ga Nai:
Less Stress: Let go of things you can’t control and focus on what you can.
More Peace: Acceptance helps you find peace in life’s unpredictability.
Emotional Freedom: You don’t have to be in control of everything to feel happy.
Stronger Resilience: Knowing when to let go builds inner strength for when challenges arise.
Kaizen: Small Steps, Big Wins
If you’re the type of person who loves to go all-in or go big or go home, Kaizen might just be the gentle nudge you need to slow things down. It’s all about making small, incremental improvements that eventually lead to massive change. Forget the huge, overnight transformations. With Kaizen, it’s about focusing on tiny wins—just 1% better every day—and watching them snowball into bigger successes.
It’s a bit like adding a spoonful of sugar every time you make tea. At first, you don’t notice the difference. But over time, those tiny bits add up to something really sweet. And guess what? These small changes don’t overwhelm you—because they’re so doable!
Why You Should Practice Kaizen:
· Less Overwhelm: Big changes don’t need to be intimidating. Small steps make it feel manageable.
· Constant Growth: Even the tiniest progress is still progress.
· Sustainable: Slow, steady improvement means lasting results.
· Build Confidence: Watch your small wins pile up, and soon you’ll realize how much you’ve grown.
Conclusion: Transform Your Life Today
Japanese wellness practices aren’t just about meditation or stretching. They’re about living intentionally, embracing who you are, and finding balance in the chaos. By incorporating these practices—Oubaitori, Wabi-Sabi, Kaizen, Shikata ga Nai, and Ikigai—you can transform your mindset and build a life that feels truly aligned with who you are.
Ready to get started? Take small steps today, and watch how these concepts start to shift your perspective. Because, let’s be honest, life doesn’t come with a rulebook—so why not make your own path, imperfections and all?
So, tell me below which concept you’ll incorporate in your life? Because if I can make those changes slowly, you can too.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pooja Vishwanathan is a soulful writer and music lover, living as if she has a thousand years to grow yet embracing every moment as if it’s her last. Writing and creating content are not just her craft but the legacy she builds with every word. Inspired by the melodies of life, she pours sincerity and soul into each sentence, capturing the rhythm of existence. Whether through music’s echoes or language’s flow, she finds beauty in fleeting moments. Her journey is one of infinite discovery, evolving with every verse she pens, knowing that she dies once but lives through her words.
Motto: Write endlessly, live deeply, and let words outlive time.
February 19, 2025
Coping with Grief Through Reading, Writing, and Literature: A Health Guide
If you’ve ever experienced grief, you know it’s that uninvited guest that overstays its welcome. It’s messy, unpredictable, and sneaks up on you at the worst moments—like in the middle of a grocery store when you hear a song that reminds you of someone you lost. Grief isn’t just about losing a loved one; it comes in many forms—breakups, job losses, shattered dreams. Whatever shape it takes, it’s real, and it’s heavy. But here’s the good news: words can help carry the weight.
When the time feels right, literature—whether through reading, writing, or reflection—can be a powerful tool for healing. Books, poems, and creative expression offer solace when everything else feels overwhelming.
I’ve had my fair share of loss, and every time, literature has been my anchor. Whether it’s the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship, words have this uncanny way of making sense of the chaos in my head.
Ever curled up with a book and felt like the world just paused for a second? Reading can be like pressing “mute” on life’s noise, giving you the space to breathe and process.
Validation of your feelings: Sometimes, you don’t know how to put your emotions into words. Then, you read a line in a book, and it’s like, Yes! That’s exactly how I feel! Books give us permission to feel without explaining ourselves.
Emotional reflection: Grief can make you feel like you’re on an island. But through literature, you realize others have been there too—and survived.
Therapeutic escape: When the world gets too loud, books whisper, Hey, come hide here for a while.
Different books speak to different people, but if you’re not sure where to start, here are some genres that can help:
Memoirs & autobiographies: Real stories of loss make you feel less alone.
Poetry: Short, powerful, and straight to the heart.
Fictional books about loss: Sometimes, a well-told story can help you navigate your own pain. (Think The Lovely Bones or The Fault in Our Stars.)
Reading is great, but don’t stop there. Writing is like having a conversation with yourself—no judgment, no filter, just raw honesty.
Declutter your mind: Too many emotions swirling around? Get them onto paper and free up some space in your head.
No rules, no grammar police: Just write what you feel. No one’s grading this.
Track your healing journey: Looking back at old entries helps you see how far you’ve come.
They may be gone, but your feelings aren’t. Writing to them—telling them what’s on your mind, what you wish you’d said—can be incredibly healing. It’s not about getting a reply; it’s about letting your heart speak.
If journaling isn’t your thing, try poetry or creative writing. Grief is complicated, but words can transform it into something beautiful—like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon.
Express abstract emotions: Poetry can capture feelings that ordinary sentences can’t.
Reframe your grief: Writing allows you to see your journey from different angles.
One of the most powerful things about literature is how it builds empathy. By reading about grief from different perspectives, you not only understand your own emotions better but also connect with others in new ways.
Understand cultural differences in grief: Different societies process loss in unique ways. Literature gives you insight into those traditions.
Gain perspective on different kinds of loss: Loss isn’t always about death. Books explore grief in many forms, helping you make sense of your own.
If grief is a storm, literature is the lighthouse guiding you through. It won’t erase the pain, but it will help you make sense of it, giving you a space to heal.
So, what now? Grab that book off your shelf. Open a journal and start writing. Doodle, scribble, create. You might just surprise yourself with how much lighter your heart feels when you let words carry the weight for a while.
Kat Olvera is a writer who loves romanticizing each corner of the ordinary just enough to create a compelling story. She exists to explore and create through writing and editing content that helps readers slow down in a fast-paced world.
She’s a Pacific Northwest creature born in Alaska, or as she likes to tell people, the North Pole. Kat specializes in history and poetry. She has two full-length poetry collections and was a 2020-2021 participant in the Roma Women’s Poetry Project with the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture.
February 6, 2025
5 Psychological Therapies and Counseling Techniques Every Writer Must Try to Unlock Creative Block
I remember staring at the blank page for hours, my fingers hovering over the keyboard, waiting for inspiration to strike. It didn’t. The longer I sat there, the more the silence in my mind grew deafening. I questioned everything—was I even a writer? Had I run out of words? The self-doubt crept in, whispering cruel thoughts: Maybe you were never good enough to begin with. Creative block is a brutal, soul-sucking force that makes us feel disconnected from the one thing that gives us life—writing.
Margaret Atwood once said, "Writer’s block is my unconscious mind telling me that something I’ve just written is either unbelievable or unimportant to me." And that hit me hard. What if my brain wasn’t betraying me but trying to tell me something? Maybe I was forcing words onto the page without truly believing in them.
Maybe my creative block wasn’t a lack of talent but a signal—one urging me to rethink, reimagine, and reconnect with my writing.
If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. But what if I told you that the answer isn’t in forcing yourself to write, but in understanding the psychology behind why you’re stuck?
Your brain is like a high-speed train. When it’s running smoothly, ideas flow effortlessly. But sometimes, something pulls the emergency brake. That ‘something’ is often a mix of fear, perfectionism, and mental fatigue.
Neurologically speaking, writer’s block isn’t just “being stuck”—it’s your brain going into survival mode. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for creativity and problem-solving, shuts down when stress, anxiety, or self-doubt take over. Meanwhile, the amygdala, your brain’s built-in alarm system, starts screaming, “Danger! What if this isn’t good enough?” And just like that, your creative energy freezes.
Add to that the pressure of deadlines, fear of criticism, or even just burnout, and suddenly, writing feels impossible. But here’s the good news—if writer’s block is psychological, then psychological techniques can help break through it.
If you’re struggling with writer’s block, you might feel like you’re the only one. But here’s the truth: even the most celebrated authors—those whose words have shaped literature and inspired generations—have faced the same creative paralysis.
Writer’s block doesn’t discriminate. It haunts beginners and literary giants alike. Here are some well-known authors who faced the dreaded creative standstill—and how they fought their way back to writing.
Margaret Atwood, the author of The Handmaid’s Tale, has spoken openly about writer’s block, describing it as her unconscious mind telling her that something she’s writing is either "unbelievable or unimportant." Instead of forcing words onto the page, she steps back and reassesses, trusting that inspiration will return when she’s honest with herself.
Lesson: If you’re stuck, maybe your story doesn’t feel right to you. Re-examine your idea—does it excite you? Does it feel true? If not, pivot.
Even the legendary F. Scott Fitzgerald, known for The Great Gatsby, suffered from creative paralysis. He once wrote to his editor about being completely blocked, unable to write because he feared his work wouldn’t match his previous successes.
Lesson: Fear of failure is a creativity killer. Instead of chasing perfection, give yourself permission to write something bad. First drafts are meant to be messy—they’re the raw material for brilliance.
Maya Angelou refused to let writer’s block silence her. When she couldn’t write, she would still put pen to paper, even if it was just nonsensical sentences. She believed that keeping the flow going—even with uninspired words—would eventually lead her back to creativity.
Lesson: Write anything, even if it’s gibberish. Momentum is everything.
After the success of Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling faced an intense creative block while working on The Casual Vacancy. The pressure of expectations and fear of disappointing readers made her second-guess every word. It wasn’t until she reminded herself why she started writing in the first place that she found her way back.
Lesson: Forget external expectations. Write for yourself first.
Neil Gaiman once admitted that when he feels stuck, he simply walks away. He lets his subconscious mind work on the problem while he does something else—like taking a walk or reading something unrelated. More often than not, the solution presents itself when he least expects it.
Lesson: Sometimes, stepping away is the best way forward. Creativity isn’t about brute force—it’s about giving your mind space to breathe.
The difference between those who quit and those who push through? Learning how to navigate the block, rather than fear it. Let’s look at some of the greatest writers who wrestled with creative roadblocks—and how they found their way back to the page.
Let’s dive into five transformative psychological therapies that can help rewire your brain and reignite your creative flow. These aren’t your typical “take a break” or “go for a walk” suggestions. These are real, research-backed methods used by therapists to break mental barriers and unlock creativity buried under layers of fear and doubt.
Let’s explore how science can help you get back to writing—without the mind games.
Ever find yourself obsessing over something unfinished? That’s the Zeigarnik Effect in action. And guess what? I’ve found a way to use it to my advantage. Here’s the deal: when I leave something unfinished, my brain carries the tension of not having resolved it, and that tension keeps pulling me back in.
Sound crazy? Maybe. But it works. Instead of forcing myself to finish that perfect scene, I’ll just stop midway. No pressure to complete it. And let me tell you, that little unfinished moment haunts me in the best way—it keeps me coming back to finish it.
Try This: Start a scene, get to the good stuff, then stop. The unfinished business will keep you hooked, and before you know it, you’ll be dying to pick it up again.
If I’m honest, one of the reasons I hit writer’s block is fear. Maybe it’s fear of rejection, or maybe it’s the fear of writing something that just isn’t good enough. But here’s the thing: if I don’t face that fear, it’s just going to keep me stuck. That’s where Exposure Therapy comes in.
I’ve learned that gradually exposing myself to my fears—whether it’s sharing a piece with a friend or posting it online—makes the fear lose its grip. The more I face it, the less it controls me. And the best part? My creativity becomes freer the more I push myself past the fear.
Try This: Start small. Write something uncomfortable, but don’t show anyone. Then, push further—post a short snippet online, share it with a trusted friend, or submit it to a publication. The goal? Rejection loses its sting over time, and soon, fear stops dictating your creativity.
You know those days when I just can’t seem to shake off the mental rut? I get stuck in the same thoughts, and nothing seems fresh. That’s when I turn to Neurobics—a way to shake things up and get my brain thinking differently. It’s all about doing things that challenge my brain to think outside its usual patterns.
I’ve done things like brush my teeth with my non-dominant hand, take a completely new route to work, or even change up my routine just to keep things fresh. These small activities make my brain think in new ways, and you wouldn’t believe how much it helps when I go back to writing.
Try This: Do something unusual—maybe eat lunch with your non-dominant hand or wear mismatched socks.
These little brain exercises break the cycle of repetition, and when you sit down to write, your brain will be ready to think more creatively.
Okay, bear with me here—EMDR might sound a bit wild, but trust me, it works. It's all about processing those painful writing failures that have been sitting in your brain, blocking new ideas. It’s like your brain’s holding onto old stuff and saying, “Nope, no creativity today!” But with EMDR, you guide your eyes back and forth while thinking about a painful memory. This trick helps your brain process it differently, and before you know it, the emotional weight starts to lift.
Try This: Think of that one time your writing totally flopped. Now, grab a pen and follow it from side to side while you replay that moment in your mind. Sound weird? Maybe. But, trust me—this weird little trick works. Stick with it, and watch that sting fade. I dare you.
Ever sit down to write and feel like it’s all pointless? Been there. That’s when you need Logotherapy.
Viktor Frankl, the genius behind this, said that if we can find meaning in our struggles, we can push through anything. So, if your writing feels dry, reconnect with your “why.” When you know your purpose, the words practically write themselves.
Try This: Take a second and ask yourself: Why do I write? Is it to make sense of your world? To help someone else? When you rediscover your reason, suddenly everything else falls into place. Your writing becomes a whole lot more meaningful. And hey, you might even surprise yourself.
Writer’s block isn’t a life sentence—it’s a signal. A pause. A moment where your mind is nudging you to pay attention. Maybe you’re exhausted. Maybe fear is paralyzing your creativity. Maybe, as Margaret Atwood said, you’re simply trying to write something that doesn’t truly resonate with you.
But here’s the thing—your creativity isn’t gone. It’s just waiting for you to find a new way in. Whether it's challenging your inner critic with CBT, confronting your fears through exposure, or rediscovering your purpose with logotherapy, you have the tools to break free. The block isn’t stronger than you—it never was.
So take a breath. Be kind to yourself. And when you’re ready, return to the page—not with pressure, but with curiosity. Your words are still there, waiting. And trust me, they’ll come back to you when you meet them halfway.
Now tell me—what’s the first thing you’re going to write? Let’s talk. Because I promise, you’re not alone in this.
ABOUT THIS BLOGGER
Meet Shreya Mishra, she is a blend of passion and purpose, seamlessly weaving the worlds of medicine and content creation. Her love for music and dance infuses rhythm into her life, while her compassionate spirit guides her journey toward healing and expression. Every step she takes resonates with curiosity and creativity, inspiring those around her with her warmth and determination.
January 22, 2025
The Courageous Journey of an Afghan Girl: Shattered Dreams and Silenced Voices, Women's rights in Afghanistan fell
⚠️ Warning: The following images depict graphic scenes of violence, poverty, grief, and despair related to the Taliban insurgency; viewer discretion is advised.
When the Taliban took over all of Afghanistan on 15 August, I realized that I had to say goodbye to my dreams. Life became bitter for me, I experienced depression as a teenager. My brain was burning, until one day I decided to write my mental state on paper, it was when I started writing. I am Sanamta Mushfiq (anonymous name), an 18-year-old girl born in the capital of Afghanistan. This is my story.
At Wingless Dreamer Publisher, our focus has always been on literary musings, wellness reflections, and artistic inspirations. We deliberately steer clear of political discourse, activism, or topics outside the literary spectrum. But things went differently last Monday afternoon; an email arrived in our inbox that changed everything. It was from Sanamta (a pseudonym to protect the sender’s identity), and it struck a chord so profound that we felt compelled to share it with the world.
This email wasn’t just a story; it was a plea, a mirror reflecting the privileges we often take for granted—privileges that should be revered daily, like the air we breathe. Time, like breath, is fragile and unforgiving. Note that. I repeat, Time, like breath, is fragile and unforgiving. In a single moment, it can shatter everything you know. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and life teeters on the edge; similarly, it only takes a heartbeat for the world as you know it to fall apart.
I left all the editorial tasks and business assignments and personally started working on this blog post to make sure the efforts made and life-risk taken by Sanamta do not go in vain. Let's hear her story and the Taliban's tribulations being brutally imposed on the ground.
In this chaotic world,
I wish I was a stone
Without fatigue, without fear,
spending the rest of my life
at the bottom of a river - Sanamta
"The summer of 2021. It remains one of the saddest periods of my life and continues to this day. That day (August 15, 2021) I was at school; it was the last day of my exams. I never imagined I would have to bid farewell to school in such a way. I never thought Kabul would fall, without even a single gunshot, into the hands of the most ruthless and conscienceless individuals.
I vividly remember that day; it hasn’t left my mind for even a moment. I was 15 years old at that time, watching the news incessantly every day. The city was filled with terror; everyone was scared, barely stepping out of their homes. They lowered our tricolor flag and raised their own colorless banner. I realized that it was the end of the line. People rushed to the airport, desperate to leave the country, as no one had any hope left.
As for the airport scene, it’s enough to say that this incident alone could fill a book. I was terrified because I had heard rumors that they were abducting girls. Even the thought of such a thing happening to me made my body tremble."
Yes, Sanamta—who could ever erase the horrifying chaos of that airport scene from their mind? The screams, the desperation, the inhumanity carved into every second. And then, that moment—a baby, barely grasping the essence of life, was hauled across a barbed wire fence in a frantic bid to escape the clutches of the monstrous Taliban. Tiny hands grazed against cruel metal, an innocent body almost sacrificed to a desperate hope. The image burns like fire in memory—a raw, bleeding testament to a world gone mad.
"Fear, anxiety, stress.
At a young age, one can feel as if they’ve aged, with a hunched back, trembling hands, and enduring immense pain. I had dreams as a child, but unfortunately, I couldn’t achieve any of them. That night I went to the rooftop and looked at the sky. The darkness of that night was darker than usual, suffocating me. I kept wondering, “What will happen now?”
I felt a great fracture inside, as I had been destroyed from the inside. I looked at the moon and the mountains, and I could only shed tears, remembering all the dreams that withered away just as I wished to caress them. I told myself, “Nothing will ever be right again; nothing will be like it was before.”
Perhaps my body survived that night, but my soul never.
Something in me died that I still haven’t been able to recover.
March/22/2022
The day before, the Taliban didn’t say anything and rang the school bell. I didn’t have any hope, but I still went to school. When I reached the school gate, I saw the Taliban's vehicle parked there. I didn’t know what they wanted revenge for. When I entered the schoolyard, the principal told us that “girls below the sixth grade could go to their classrooms, but those above the sixth grade should wait for further instructions. I had expected this, but it still hit me hard. If they didn’t want to reopen schools for girls above sixth grade, why ring the bell in the first place? Why stand by the gate to observe reactions and immediately detain anyone who protested? What has happened to women's rights in Afghanistan.
Sometimes, I get lost in thought. People tell me, “Don’t torment yourself so much.” But how can I forget how cold and barren my youth has been? Education, a dream, has turned into a nightmare. After the schools closed, with my parents’ help, I joined an English language center. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t ease the heaviness in my heart.
A few months into my English classes, I went out one day, and the city was chaotic again.
I didn’t know what had happened, as I approached, I saw Taliban vehicles blocking our language center.
All the teachers and students were returning home in tears. When I saw that scene, I picked up a stone from the ground and threw it at their vehicle.
One of the Taliban pointed his gun at me, if it weren’t for my teachers’ intervention, I might not be alive today.
On December/21/2022
The Taliban ordered the closure of all educational institutions for girls.
The next day, news spread that girls in several provinces had committed suicide, but the Taliban prohibited the release of statistics.
Reports indicated that the suicide rate among women had surpassed that of men by 2%.
I believe the main causes of suicide are restrictions, being cornered, discrimination, isolation and the inability to achieve one’s goals. Every day, new decrees are issued, and more restrictions are imposed on girls and women. The Taliban’s ruling, labeling women’s voice as “awrat” (forbidden), faced widespread backlash from women.
In the end, I don’t know what will happen. I don’t know if I will ever be the same again. If schools reopen, will I still have the same passion as before? Will I be able to free myself from this isolation? These questions haunt my mind every day, and I can’t find answers.
I close my eyes, hoping to dream as I used to, but each day I feel more suffocated. There is someone who grips my throat with bloody, angry hands, preventing me from dreaming again. When I open my eyes, I see it’s not just one person. It’s a group of oppressors determined to bury me and all those like me in suffocation."
After reading this, the Wingless Dreamer Team and I were left dumbfounded. We've already forwarded this blog to other publishers, news channels, activists, and even wrote to the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. We request you to do the same.
Although, in the process, we as a publishing company for the first time found that words cannot adequately capture the depth of our sufferings, no matter how hard you try. On behalf of the Wingless Dreamer team, I would like to send a message to Samanta and to many other girls:
The pain of shattered dreams is beyond measure, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward amid relentless oppression is incomprehensible. Your story stands as a heart-wrenching testament to resilience, a powerful reminder of the unimaginable suffering endured by so many under the brutal rule of the Taliban.
We grieve for the childhood stolen from you, the education denied, and the countless moments of fear and despair that no one should ever endure. Yet, during this pain, your bravery shines through. By sharing your truth, you not only honor your own journey but also give voice to countless others who are silenced.
Know that your words have the power to inspire change and ignite compassion. You are not alone, and the world hears your story. We stand with you, grieving, fighting, and hoping for a day when no one has to live under such inhumanity again.
With deepest sympathy and unyielding solidarity,
Ruchi Acharya, Founder
Wingless Dreamer Publisher
Website : ruchiacharya.com
The Courageous Journey of an Afghan Girl: Shattered Dreams and Silenced Voices
⚠️ Warning: The following images depict graphic scenes of violence, poverty, grief, and despair related to the Taliban insurgency; viewer discretion is advised.
When the Taliban took over all of Afghanistan on 15 August, I realized that I had to say goodbye to my dreams. Life became bitter for me, I experienced depression as a teenager. My brain was burning, until one day I decided to write my mental state on paper, it was when I started writing. I am Sanamta Mushfiq (anonymous name), an 18-year-old girl born in the capital of Afghanistan. This is my story.
At Wingless Dreamer Publisher, our focus has always been on literary musings, wellness reflections, and artistic inspirations. We deliberately steer clear of political discourse, activism, or topics outside the literary spectrum. But things went differently last Monday afternoon; an email arrived in our inbox that changed everything. It was from Sanamta (a pseudonym to protect the sender’s identity), and it struck a chord so profound that we felt compelled to share it with the world.
This email wasn’t just a story; it was a plea, a mirror reflecting the privileges we often take for granted—privileges that should be revered daily, like the air we breathe. Time, like breath, is fragile and unforgiving. Note that. I repeat, Time, like breath, is fragile and unforgiving. In a single moment, it can shatter everything you know. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and life teeters on the edge; similarly, it only takes a heartbeat for the world as you know it to fall apart.
I left all the editorial tasks and business assignments and personally started working on this blog post to make sure the efforts made and life-risk taken by Sanamta do not go in vain. Let's hear her story and the Taliban's tribulations being brutally imposed on the ground.
In this chaotic world,
I wish I was a stone
Without fatigue, without fear,
spending the rest of my life
at the bottom of a river - Sanamta
"The summer of 2021. It remains one of the saddest periods of my life and continues to this day. That day (August 15, 2021) I was at school; it was the last day of my exams. I never imagined I would have to bid farewell to school in such a way. I never thought Kabul would fall, without even a single gunshot, into the hands of the most ruthless and conscienceless individuals.
I vividly remember that day; it hasn’t left my mind for even a moment. I was 15 years old at that time, watching the news incessantly every day. The city was filled with terror; everyone was scared, barely stepping out of their homes. They lowered our tricolor flag and raised their own colorless banner. I realized that it was the end of the line. People rushed to the airport, desperate to leave the country, as no one had any hope left.
As for the airport scene, it’s enough to say that this incident alone could fill a book. I was terrified because I had heard rumors that they were abducting girls. Even the thought of such a thing happening to me made my body tremble."
Yes, Sanamta—who could ever erase the horrifying chaos of that airport scene from their mind? The screams, the desperation, the inhumanity carved into every second. And then, that moment—a baby, barely grasping the essence of life, was hauled across a barbed wire fence in a frantic bid to escape the clutches of the monstrous Taliban. Tiny hands grazed against cruel metal, an innocent body almost sacrificed to a desperate hope. The image burns like fire in memory—a raw, bleeding testament to a world gone mad.
"Fear, anxiety, stress.
At a young age, one can feel as if they’ve aged, with a hunched back, trembling hands, and enduring immense pain. I had dreams as a child, but unfortunately, I couldn’t achieve any of them. That night I went to the rooftop and looked at the sky. The darkness of that night was darker than usual, suffocating me. I kept wondering, “What will happen now?”
I felt a great fracture inside, as I had been destroyed from the inside. I looked at the moon and the mountains, and I could only shed tears, remembering all the dreams that withered away just as I wished to caress them. I told myself, “Nothing will ever be right again; nothing will be like it was before.”
Perhaps my body survived that night, but my soul never.
Something in me died that I still haven’t been able to recover.
March/22/2022
The day before, the Taliban didn’t say anything and rang the school bell. I didn’t have any hope, but I still went to school. When I reached the school gate, I saw the Taliban's vehicle parked there. I didn’t know what they wanted revenge for. When I entered the schoolyard, the principal told us that “girls below the sixth grade could go to their classrooms, but those above the sixth grade should wait for further instructions. I had expected this, but it still hit me hard. If they didn’t want to reopen schools for girls above sixth grade, why ring the bell in the first place? Why stand by the gate to observe reactions and immediately detain anyone who protested?
Sometimes, I get lost in thought. People tell me, “Don’t torment yourself so much.” But how can I forget how cold and barren my youth has been? Education, a dream, has turned into a nightmare. After the schools closed, with my parents’ help, I joined an English language center. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t ease the heaviness in my heart.
A few months into my English classes, I went out one day, and the city was chaotic again.
I didn’t know what had happened, as I approached, I saw Taliban vehicles blocking our language center.
All the teachers and students were returning home in tears. When I saw that scene, I picked up a stone from the ground and threw it at their vehicle.
One of the Taliban pointed his gun at me, if it weren’t for my teachers’ intervention, I might not be alive today.
On December/21/2022
The Taliban ordered the closure of all educational institutions for girls.
The next day, news spread that girls in several provinces had committed suicide, but the Taliban prohibited the release of statistics.
Reports indicated that the suicide rate among women had surpassed that of men by 2%.
I believe the main causes of suicide are restrictions, being cornered, discrimination, isolation and the inability to achieve one’s goals. Every day, new decrees are issued, and more restrictions are imposed on girls and women. The Taliban’s ruling, labeling women’s voice as “awrat” (forbidden), faced widespread backlash from women.
In the end, I don’t know what will happen. I don’t know if I will ever be the same again. If schools reopen, will I still have the same passion as before? Will I be able to free myself from this isolation? These questions haunt my mind every day, and I can’t find answers.
I close my eyes, hoping to dream as I used to, but each day I feel more suffocated. There is someone who grips my throat with bloody, angry hands, preventing me from dreaming again. When I open my eyes, I see it’s not just one person. It’s a group of oppressors determined to bury me and all those like me in suffocation."
After reading this, me and the Wingless Dreamer Team left dumbfounded. We've already forwarded this blog to other publishers, news channels, activists, and even wrote to the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. We request you to do the same.
Although, in the process, we as a publishing company for the first time found words cannot adequately capture the depth of our sufferings, no matter how hard you try. On behalf of the Wingless Dreamer team, I would like to send a message to Samanta and to many other girls:
The pain of shattered dreams is beyond measure, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward amid relentless oppression is incomprehensible. Your story stands as a heart-wrenching testament to resilience, a powerful reminder of the unimaginable suffering endured by so many under the brutal rule of the Taliban.
We grieve for the childhood stolen from you, the education denied, and the countless moments of fear and despair that no one should ever endure. Yet, in the midst of this pain, your bravery shines through. By sharing your truth, you not only honor your own journey but also give voice to countless others who are silenced.
Know that your words have the power to inspire change and ignite compassion. You are not alone, and the world hears your story. We stand with you, grieving, fighting, and hoping for a day when no one has to live under such inhumanity again.
With deepest sympathy and unyielding solidarity,
Wingless Dreamer Publisher
