30/12/14

I don’t know if it’s because it’s the end of the year but I think I need to get some thoughts out of my head.
This post will be a list and possible explanation of what I have learned this past year.
1) Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care and caring for others. You have to trust your instincts and do what is right in order to give you peace of mind; it’s not a matter of narcissism but one of vitality with regards to your mental and physical well being.
2) Treating others with respect, being honest and maintaining an open communication can take you a long way.
3) Putting yourself out there and taking risks can be tricky but they’re worth it. It’s better to know you tried than have the doubts and ‘what ifs’.
4) Before you can be with someone in a relationship, you have to establish that you are confident and at peace by being on your own. It’s essential to love yourself (however cliche that may sound) first before you can have a commitment to any other human being or else it’s just a waste of time and feelings on any end.
5) Be open to new experiences but don’t be afraid to speak up about issues that bother you or make you feel uncomfortable. If you feel that you are not emotionally secure with someone’s behavior, it is always best to be upfront about it rather than keep it bottled up inside because you feel it’s insignificant to mention or may make the other person temporarily upset.
6) Reading up on work or any information for that matter can allow you to approach ideas from a different angle. This can further aid your understanding and personal stance on what it is you’re being exposed to and can help cultivate your sense of bioethics and philosophy of life.

Online Users

Harassment at Arlington, Virginia Sit-In: 1960

'Adolescents influenced by the American Nazi Party harass Dion Diamond during a civil rights sit-in at the Cherrydale Drug Fair in Arlington, VA June 10, 1960.
Some threw lit cigarettes at the sit-in demonstrators while others kicked them. Verbal harassment was constant.
Diamond was part of a small integrated group called the Non-Violent Action Group (NAG) that led a two week campaign that resulted in integration of restaurants in Arlington, including this Drug Fair. Restaurants in Alexandria and Fairfax, Virginia soon followed.'

(Source : https://www.flickr.com/photos/washington_area_spark/8396866644/)

Online Users

18. A Letter To Someone You Hurt

Dear -,

You’ve never told me that you’ve been hurt by me but whenever we meet, I can see it in your eyes. I’m not the type of person who purposely intends to hurt people. You’re a sensitive and loving soul who I believe finds happiness in the simple things in life. Your taste in music is awesome and your humor is quite similar to mine and I smile when I think about some things that can only be understood due to a common background of ours.

I think it’s fair to say I’m a conscientious and patient individual. I get along with quite a lot of people and try to treat each person with dignity and respect; one thing I will never understand is how a person can be extremely compatible with someone else but there is no chemistry or spark.

There have been times when I have wondered what ignites the desire for attraction. The chemical structures flourish my mind but there is no formula for love.  What keeps us awake at night with feverish thoughts of missed opportunities, unfulfilled sentiments and unspoken ‘I miss you’s or ‘I love you’s?

I won’t apologize for not reciprocating the feelings you had for me because I preferred to be honest with you rather than lead you on (which, in essence, is worse). However I will apologize if, in some way, I hurt you for not being the person you idealized me to be.

Love,
Marilena

Online Users

01/12/14

Looking at the reality of the subconscious

The staircase rises up and alters to steep downfall

With a wooden rail

Into a room of possibility and perpetual illusion

Sort of mimics the dynamic 

I sit there in hesitance and you’re

Physical

Out of nowhere you wrap your legs behind mine and

My hands clench as I try to abstain from touching but you

Start kissing my neck and I can’t

Breathe;

Slowly and hungrily you

Continue until I can’t help but let out a sound and

Wake up.

Online Users

With Regards To Mike Brown and Darren Wilson

It IS an issue of race and forms of supremacy (with regards to gender, sexuality, societal class, position of power etc). Those are interconnected and are strong factors in oppression and injustice. You and I may not be held accountable for what is going on and it’s not OUR fault for what is going on just because we’re white. Examples : the Armenian genocide has nothing to do with the youth of Turkey. The Holocaust has nothing to do with the youth of Germany.

That does not mean that the newer generation of Turks or Germans should not realize that what their ancestors did was wrong, barbaric and inhumane. On the contrary, history is crucial to be acknowledged for what it is with objectivity and caution.

What needs to be done is to face the facts. There is a distinct difference between a) acknowledging that yes, just because we’re white it doesn’t mean we’re to blame for what’s going on AND b) comprehending that BECAUSE we are white, we are undeniably treated differently in comparison to black people and other people of color. I’m not saying that that’s always the case and there are certainly exceptions to the general rule.

Online Users

17. A Letter To Someone You Don't Know As Well As You Would Like

Dear -,

I wonder if you realize this letter is towards you. I don’t know what it is about you that gives me hope in that feeling I thought I would never come across again. It’s not love or lust.. I think it’s just finding that mutual sentiment of understanding between two human beings.

You seem like an intelligent individual and I adore the way you hold yourself. Your vocabulary and poise exert profound elegance and dignity. Even if we haven’t met in real life, I simultaneously feel nervous and at ease when talking to you. We may not talk to each other that often but I feel a sense of gratitude when your name pops up on the right hand side of the screen.

I think, sometime in the future, it would be a pleasure to have a cup of coffee/tea/hot chocolate (insert any other hot or cold beverage depending on the season) and get to know you better.

Warm regards,
Marilena

Online Users

16. A Letter To Someone You Admire

Dear -,

You might read this and realize it’s about you and then make that noise you make whenever I tell you things such as  ‘Merry Christmas’, ‘Happy Birthday’ and ‘I love you’ .. although, truth be told, you have started becoming better at replying to them (joke).

I’m writing this letter to you because I have noticed you have changed – especially in the past few years since you’ve been at university.

I admire you because of your dedication at being the best version of yourself with regards to what you want to pursue professionally and who you want to be.

I admire you because you’re such a loving, caring and funny individual. I enjoy being able to send you videos or pictures with the most random things and know you'll find them as hilarious as I do and vice versa. You have been through your fair share of issues but still find the strength to carry on and utilize those challenging experiences to aid your growth and to allow yourself to see life in a different light.

You have matured and become a conscientious person with more compassion and empathy and words cannot describe how proud I am of you. I don’t know where our lives will lead us but I do know that I can’t wait to see what's in store.

I love you, jeesta.

Mari Dari

Online Users

04/11/14

“The anti-inflammatory process is one which –“, there was a muffled but distinct sound in the background.

“Most of the inflammatory processes take place as a response to foreign bodies and pain. There are times when the body can randomly present inflammatory activity without particular stimulation.”

The cursor just kept going on and off. Rosa was almost done typing up her work but was finding it difficult to concentrate.

Suddenly but smoothly, a mysterious brunette emerged through the door with a calm strut and the look of a cunning secret in her eyes.

She walked towards her with two glasses of whiskey in each hand and firmly placed them on the table next to the record player.

She made her way behind Rosa, brushed the hair away from her shoulder and proceeded to plant warm, soft kisses alongside her neck.

“I need to finish my work,” stated Rosa in a not-so convincing voice.

The brunette gently chuckled and distanced herself from Rosa to temporarily get a sip of whiskey, light her cigarette and start the record player.

It was music from another time; it went well with the theme of their lives – where daydreams made up for the fast paced extravaganza of their reality. This music allowed them to be who they were; that room gave them momentary refuge of the responsibilities of their masks.

“Dance with me,” whispered the brunette as she started to find the rhythm upon awaiting her arrival.

Rosa turned and gave her a look of giving in.

The brunette offered her a drink from her glass and sensually began to dance. She tenderly pulled Rosa’s hands and placed them on her hips while she rested her own on her lover’s shoulders.

And they just danced; they swayed with the notes and the strings of pulsating possibility as they shared glances of unspoken communication.

They danced until the music stopped and they continued to move with the melody.

No promises, no worries.

Just the present, the desensitization of touch from the ecstasy and passion

Online Users

15. A Letter To Your Future Self

Dear Future Self,

Remember who you were a decade ago? What about three years ago? What about two months ago? What about yesterday?
What I want to tell you is, things happened that had never dared to cross your mind before. People came into your life and left while some stayed. Some of them for their reasons and others for your own.
What I have learned is that we’re all part of this matrix/adventure/dream/Droste effect/whatever you would like to call it and sometimes it can feel futile (not necessarily in a negative way).
You have asked yourself and wondered abysmally about the significance of life and your purpose. I don’t want to establish the answer just yet (heck, we’re only 20 for goodness sake) but it would be funny to tell you a theory that has been proven time and time again. The theory is sort of like the first thermodynamic law.. only that it finds application in human relationships and, instead of energy not being able to be created or destroyed, it involves a constant cycle of change through self reflection.
Sometimes, your sense of ethics can clash with that which is good for your health (mentally speaking, in this case) and it happens to everyone, really.
I want you to know that I don’t know what you will be like in 5-10-15 years from now; I don’t know if you’ll read this and think how naïve you once were, I don’t know if you’ll still be here.
What I do know is that the optimization (if you will) of your time on this Earth can be reached (or partially reached, for that matter) if you have an open mind and an open heart.
Alongside with this, you can find peace through forgiveness and the presence of love behind a lot of your actions. Those, as you have realized time and time again throughout the hardships, have proven to enlighten your soul and mind.
Appreciate the small moments for they will be gone before you know it.
I don’t know if you’ll still be on the path that you have chosen but I am optimistic that you will try your best in whatever you set your mind to.
Keep making mistakes, keep taking risks, keep dreaming and keep the rhythm going. That having said, don’t hesitate to stop every once in a while to observe and value the people around you and your challenges behind and waiting ahead for you.
Love,
Past Marilena

Online Users

14. A Letter To Someone You're Jealous Of

I’m not jealous of anyone, really. I think that being the person I am, I have a supportive family, group of friends, I have access to a wide archive of knowledge, I can learn new things, travel, I have a roof over my head, food to eat etc.
If I am one thing, it is ‘envious’ of certain individuals for their accomplishments with regards to the fact that some of them did not have the opportunities or the love and support that I was shown for my endeavors.
Some people had to start from scratch and are now pioneers in certain fields; some have had traumatic experiences and still find the strength to wake up every morning with a smile on their face and approach problems with optimism, creativity, perseverance to make the world a better place.
It is people like those who I find inspiring.
Jealousy, as a concept, is quite strange. I mean, you can achieve many of the things you are jealous of people for. Even if you can’t, you can change your perspective of what you consider problematic.

Online Users

13. A Letter To Your Ex-Best Friend

Dear Ex-Best Friend,

There are times when I think about how we met. How things were still so exciting and we looked forward to those moments where we would redefine our responsibility and our futures.
Although we would rarely talk, I always felt as if a day had not passed when we would eventually meet up and hang out.

I still consider you a friend of mine but, the truth is, we’re not as close as we used to be - I think you have realized it too. We have both changed and there is no doubt about that.
I find some of your views quite strange and hypocritical. I think it is fair to say I am a patient and tolerant individual. I love to learn things from people and teach them things if I can. I like to be intellectually challenged even through situations and ideas which may ultimately come into opposition with what I once considered true. I never out rule the chance of change through reflection and think that anyone who does is not embracing life as it should be embraced and that is their choice.
I have come to the conclusion that there is no validity in standing up for sexist, homophobic, racist ideologies; I feel as if I can’t express myself fully or talk about topics I come across or thoughts I have when I’m around you because I feel as if you’re indirectly judging me and I can tell by your body language/the look in your eye.

I hope you’re doing well. See you soon.
Love,
Marilena

Online Users

12. A Letter To Your Best Friend(s)

Dear Best Friends,

We have been through quite a lot and have shared numerous experiences, laughs, tears, cigarettes, thoughts, songs, comfortable silences, drinks and food.
Life works in mysterious ways; people who once meant the world to you can become strangers and vice versa.
I want you to know that if anything does happen to our bond, you bestowed upon me the opportunity to see things from a different view. You showed me the way to overcome certain obstacles and to enjoy the small moments; you were there for me and stuck by me through thick and thin.
For that, I love you and will always appreciate you no matter where our paths may lead us.

Love,
Marilena

Online Users

11/10/14

Με κοίταξε στα μάτια για μερικά δευτερόλεπτα.

Χωρίς λόγια, δεν ζητούσε τίποτ’άλλο από ανταπόκριση.

Με κοίταξε στα μάτια για μερικά δευτερόλεπτα.
Χωρίς κινήσεις των ματιών, είδα την κωμικότητα του μάταιου να εμφανίζονται στα βλέφαρα.

Με κοίταξε στα μάτια για μερικά δευτερόλεπτα.
Με προβληματισμό  ζητούσε επεξήγηση για την απουσία.

Με κοίταξε στα μάτια για μερικά δευτερόλεπτα.Ώσπου μ’άφησε ένα φιλί στο σαγόνι.

Την κοίταξα στα μάτια για μερικά δευτερόλεπτα.
Άλλαξε ο φακός του υποσυνείδητου.

Έγινα ένα τρίτο πρόσωπο έξω από το συμβάν.
Κρεμόταν μια νοητή κλωστή από εμένα και τον κλώνο μου κι ένιωθα μια γαλήνη, μια μουδιασμένη διαχρονική αδρεναλίνη.

Καθόταν στη δεξιά μεριά της αγκαλιάς του και γελούσε ανέμελα.
Περιέγραφε τα μικρά γεγονότα της μέρας και τα χέρια της ήταν συμπλεγμένα απαλά γύρω από το λαιμό του.

Η νοητή κλωστή με τραβούσε επίμονα.
Δεν ξέρω αν ήταν επειδή γρατσουνούσε την απόφαση του χρόνου και των συμπτωμάτων ή επειδή με καλούσε να παραδειγματιστώ από το φαίνεσθαι της ιδεαλοποίησης.

Online Users

11. A Letter To Your Father

Dear Babigo,

When we were younger, you used to take turns with each of us while driving your car. I would put my hands on the steering wheel and you would place yours right above them and drive through the neighborhood.

I remember when we were younger, you used to coach some of our basketball and football games every Thursday.

I recall the underground parking space that you used to drive through on the way back from outings – sometimes for fun and others to ‘’unintentionally’’ wake us up – that had a steep hill in it.

I smile when I think of the summer mornings in Lebanon when we would have the manakeesh, cheese pies, labneh, tomato/cucumber, olive and labneh combination or when we used to have brunches/lunches at restaurants on some Thursdays with friends and doughnuts on Fridays in the compound.

The music you used to play in the car and sing along with has still remained fondly in my memory – Cat Stevens, The Beatles, The Blues Brothers to name a few – and how you would air guitar Santana songs.

I remember the times when we were younger and you used to teach us how to swim – you would stand in the shallow end and tell us to come towards you. As we would, you would slowly take steps backwards and laugh quietly to yourself; I always used to think it was taking longer than what it seemed to reach you. Swimming in the sea used to scare me and I always felt safe when you were close by.

Growing up you would play all sorts of games with us and perform magic tricks (which entailed hiding keys and coins and finding them behind our ears). You still have a talent in that field - by the way - and your skills amaze me to this day!

I find it sweet how when we would go to the cinema or watch movies at home you would often fall asleep within the first twenty minutes but you would still want to hang out with us even if you weren’t fully conscious.

I love how when we play backgammon, you treat me as an equal and you don’t go easy on me. I also smile with how I make a move during the game and you sometimes make weird sounds or facial expressions in order to indicate that I should think about it more. Sometimes after the move you tell me what you think would have been a better move strategically.

I find it extremely sweet how you tease everyone and make the cutest jokes and gestures. I feel that we are alike in many ways and as I grow older I find myself taking on some values you have nurtured me with. Solving problems or differences through discussion with others has been one of the many lessons.

I find it cute that you read so many different books and you're often up for a conversation about them or life in general.

I reminisce about the time you said I should always smile when I look at the moon and it has a crescent shape.

Generally speaking you have taught me many things about life and one letter can never do justice or begin to explain what you mean to me and how much appreciation and respect I have for you. You have sacrificed a lot to be there for me and I hope I can make you feel as proud and loved as you have made me feel.

Love,
Marilena







Online Users

10. A Letter To Someone Who Makes You Angry

Look at letter 3.


Online Users

17/08/14

Εκεί που παραπάτησα στο συναίσθημα ένιωσα την

Κραυγή στα αυτιά και το δάκρυ έτοιμο να

Πέσει καυστικά στο χώμα που είχε ξεραθεί

Από τον θαμπωτικό ήλιο και την ειρωνική έλλειψη νερού που

Υπάρχει άφθονο εδώ και μάλλον όσο περνάει

Ο καιρός θα προδώσει  η ονομασία τη πόλη και η δίψα το νερό.

Κρατιόμαστε μακριά από τη ποίηση που φοβόμαστε να

Ξεστομίσουμε μα τα λόγια ταξιδεύουν σαν κύματα σχεδόν

Ηδονικά κι όσα περισσότερο τα καταπιέζουμε τόσο περισσότερο

Παλεύουν για την εξωτερίκευσή τους και πλέον δεν

Καθόμαστε να πούμε το πως μας έκανε να νιώσουμε αυτό που

Κάναμε αλλά βιαζόμαστε να καυχηθούμε για το πόσα πράγματα καταφέραμε (;) να κάνουμε.

Αποφεύγουμε την ευθύνη της ομορφιάς όμως

Το γεγονός είναι πως βρίσκεται παντού γύρω μας κι

Αλήθεια, πότε μέτρησες εσύ τελευταία φορά τα

Αστέρια;

Online Users

'ένα' - http://o-romantismos-psofise.tumblr.com/post/80484407740

'Μπλεξαμε τα ακρα μας
τις γλωσσες μας
και λιγο απ’τις ψυχες μας
Δεν διεκρινες ποια ειναι ποιανου
Μια ενωση εξωσυμπαντική
και να εψαχνες να την ερμηνευσεις
κομμάτι δύσκολο εως ακατόρθωτο.
Αυτοί είμασταν
καθόλου μόνοι
μα ουτε και μαζί.
Είμασταν το ένα
που ψάχναμε ο ένας στον άλλον.'

Online Users

9. A Letter To Someone You Miss

Dear -,

I miss the way we'd message/call each other after something funny or interesting used to happen. I feel nostalgic when I think of how we would talk about anything without hesitance or fear of judgement.

I really don't know how or why people grow apart.. but we have to admit that it is a part of life and it is often not done on purpose. I want you to know that I'm here if you ever need me and I'm exited to see the person you're turning into. You have shown me a lot about myself and I hope I have managed to do the same for you - even a little bit.

Love,
Marilena






Online Users

'Εμείς Οι Λίγοι' του Γιώργου Μακρή (1950)

ΕΜΕΙΣ ΟΙ ΛΙΓΟΙ

Είμαστε εμείς οι ονειροπαρμένοι τρελλοί της γης
με τη φλογισμένη καρδιά και τα έξαλλα μάτια.
Είμαστε οι αλύτρωτοι στοχαστές και οι τραγικοί ερωτευμένοι.
Χίλιοι ήλιοι κυλούνε μες στο αίμα μας
κι ολούθε μας κυνηγά το όραμα του απείρου.
Η φόρμα δεν μπορεί να μας δαμάσει.
Εμείς ερωτευτήκαμε την ουσία του είναι μας
και σ’όλους μας τους έρωτες αυτήν αγαπούμε.
Είμαστε οι μεγάλοι ενθουσιασμένοι κι οι μεγάλοι αρνητές.
Κλείνουμε μέσα μας τον κόσμο όλο και δεν είμαστε τίποτα απ’αυτόν τον κόσμο.
Οι μέρες μας είναι μιά πυρκαγιά κι οι νύχτες μας ένα πέλαγο.
Γύρω μας αντηχεί το γέλιο των ανθρώπων.

Είμαστε οι προάγγελοι του χάους.


















Online Users

8. A Letter To Your Past Self

Dear 5 year old self,

Feeling strange for wanting to be adventurous and explore the world around you is something you will find gets easier as you grow older. You’re going to meet some friends now and in a couple of years who you will still keep in touch with and they are precious individuals. What happened with X is not your fault.

Dear 9 year old self,

You listen to The Beatles, Blink 182, Sum 41, Greenday and even Britney Spears (cringe) on your Walkman or CD player during bus rides to and from school. I see you’ve continued playing sports. Badminton, football and basketball. Basketball is particularly awesome, isn’t it? You day dream a lot. Don’t watch too much TV – you’re missing out on some good times with family and friends! You’re going to move to Greece this summer. You’re going to feel very sad and miss your Dad, Riyadh, your friends and the way your life used to be. It’s going to be quite tough to adapt at first, I won’t lie. You won’t fully understand the situation until many years later.. but it really will get better, I promise.

Dear 11 year old self,

It wasn’t your fault. No matter how much you scrub your skin, the touch won’t go away. Things will get easier and you’ll forgive eventually. The white streaks in your hair aren’t something to be ashamed of. You’ll come to accept them and even love them because you will realize they are a part of who you are. By the way, there is a term for the things you are feeling regardless of how hard you’re trying to convince yourself otherwise and justify your attractions.

Dear 15 year old self,

This year is going to be the beginning of the best years of your life. You’re going to find out more about the world around you. You will be in a state of self conflict. You will discover new music and literature. You will make some wonderful memories and meet some important people.

Dear 16 year old self,

You will be in your first ‘’serious’’ relationship this year. You will make mistakes and learn from them. You’re going to go through some changes. You will fall in love for the first time.

Dear 17 year old self,

You are going to have one of the best and chaotic years of your life. You will be overcome with emotion for the most part. You are not going to be able to concentrate on your studies. Art, literature, politics and music will consume you more than ever before. You’re going to start smoking more frequently. You’re going to start hanging out more with a friend with whom you are inseparable now. All I can tell you is to enjoy it while it lasts. I admire your patience and refusal to be bitter – however easy that option may be at the moment.She needs you.. do the right thing. Don’t be hard on yourself. You will miss these years and see that everything happens for a reason.

Dear 18 year old self,

Glasgow, eh? Take in the first taste of independence and unchained uncertainty. This year is going to be full of pleasant surprises. Pink Floyd concert, parties, other gigs, funny nights and life. Smile – there’s more coming.

Love,
Future Marilena

7. A Letter To Someone You Respect

Dear Yiayia or Grandy/Grandoula,

The stories you have told me have stayed with me. I don’t remember some of the names mentioned but I remember the description of your voice.

You have lived such a challenging life and respect is the least I can say I feel towards you.

You are such a selfless individual and always do more for others than yourself. I wish you could see from our eyes just how important you are in our lives and feel the joy your presence brings us.

I admire how you’ve always been active and even if you’re eighty years old, you have the soul of a child.

Even if you did not finish elementary school due to the war, the ideas you express are so simple, comprehensible and exert virtue. Growing up you would often say these phrases to me:

‘I wish I had your youth. I don’t feel old! I feel as if I’m fifteen.’
‘The eyes don’t see – the mind sees.’
‘Find a person in your life who respects you and your goals. Find a person who loves you and lets you grow.’

I often think of and refer to these in some aspects of my life.

I love how when you’re in a mood to nap, you move your thumbs in a cyclic motion and softly drum them on your stomach while your hands are still interlocked.

I find it sweet how when you watch series on TV, you really get into the stories that are unfolded and empathize with the characters affected by some tragedy. If someone’s with you, you don’t hesitate to explain what has previously happened with the same awe. It makes me feel included – even if I don’t understand what has actually happened. Especially when you’re watching Turkish series, you whisper the subtitles to yourself and you seem so absorbed in the occurrences.

Sometimes when you’re working in the garden, cooking one of your delicious specialties, ironing, hanging clothes I hear you talk to yourself. I don’t know if you realize it but I have found it comforting throughout the past years.

I would visit your house often in my last year of high school and we would spend some time talking about life and family news. You would always ask me if I was hungry (you know me well hehe) and if I wanted any of the food that remained from lunch or a sandwich (toast). I remember coming to your house one afternoon with a little box of your favorite sweets (kariokes). You weren’t expecting me so when you opened the door you were surprised. When you saw the kariokes, your expression was priceless! You seemed so happy with such a small gesture that it made my heart swell up.

I look forward to seeing you and giving you a biiiig hug.

Love,
Marilena

Online Users

6. A Letter To Someone You Feel Resentful Towards

Look at letter 3.

Online Users

5. A Letter To Someone You Feel Grateful Towards

I googled the word ‘grateful’ so that I could somehow make up my mind about who I should address this letter to. I decided to leave out my parents because there are upcoming letters that are going to be addressed to them anyway. I used a website called ‘beventure.com’ to make the decision for me after typing in several options/people’s names.

Most of the names I wrote down belonged to teachers I had when I was in Greece. The answer from the website showed the name of a teacher called ‘Kuria Nikolaidou’ (Mrs. Nikolaidou, in English).

In order to understand who this woman is, it’s essential to mention how she came into my life.

For reasons that I will probably explain in another post some other time, my family and I moved to Greece in the summer of 2004 (Olympic Games ftw) from Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). We were born and raised there and we attended a British school so our first language was English. My parents used to talk to us in English, Greek, Armenian and Arabic (sometimes conversations would be held with a mixture of those). Mind you, my siblings and I had an American accent (probably due to the cartoons we used to watch? I really have no clue why!) when we spoke both languages. I sometimes watch old videos of when I was younger and cringe at the accent!

My twin sister and I were in 5^th grade, my older brother was in 7^th and my older sister was in the 9^th grade. We all learnt how to properly read and write in Greek that summer with a teacher who I think is rightfully important to mention (she was one of the options) – Kuria Chrysa (Mrs Chrysa, in English). While it is safe to say that it was difficult adapting to Greek society at first, it was easier for me and my twin sister because we were at a much lower academic stage. My brother was just starting middle school and my older sister was starting the last grade of middle school and had ancient Greek (on top of modern Greek language which she had to primarily grasp) in her curriculum. She was purposely put in a class which a philology/literature teacher was responsible for. That teacher is who I’m addressing this letter to.

Due to the fact that my older sister was facing some difficulties with the lessons which involved language (Greek literature, Greek language, ancient Greek, history etc), my Mom asked the teacher if it would be possible for her to take on my older sister for private lessons. There was a misunderstanding and Kuria Nikolaidou thought it was going to be a temporary arrangement (just a few lessons). Turns out, she connected with my older sister and wanted to help her on a more permanent basis. 

The following years that came, she would come to our house and go to my older sister’s room to proceed with lessons. Lessons which were meant for an hour or two sometimes went up until three or four hours.  She then took the responsibility of helping out my brother as well - mainly with a lesson called ‘Greek language’ (essay writing, composition skills etc). I would sometimes bring her her usual coffee in a matching china pattern cup and plate with a biscuit or a homemade sweet, a little tin of milk, a small packet of sugar and a glass of water and she would sometimes stop talking to thank me. Other times she would be completely absorbed in her train of thought but still give me a warm glance of gratitude.

When the time came for me and my twin sister to start high school (my brother was in his last year of high school, my older sister had already graduated and was at university), we decided we wanted to have her as a teacher as well. She used to mainly teach us Greek language but she was more than willing to help us in any other lessons when we did not quite comprehend some things we were taught at school. I don’t really remember when me and my twin sister started having lessons with her separately (because we started together), but in my last year of high school I distinctly recall being on a one to one basis with Kuria Nikolaidou.

Okay then, this introduction was longer than expected but it doesn’t matter.

Dear Kuria Nikolaidou,

Words cannot express how fortunate I feel that I had the opportunity to meet you and foremost, have the privilege to call you my teacher.

I remember you telling me that my essays were too compact, that I needed to be more assertive with my thoughts and not believe that everyone reading my words understood the ideas I was trying to present behind them. I think I have definitely changed my writing style since then!

I loved the way you used to make the lesson into a conversation for the most part. You called it ‘The Socratic Method’. You listened to my opinions with patience, made me think one step ahead in each circumstance of discussion and helped me in cultivating my critical thinking and debating skills.

There were times during those three years where you repeated stories of people you knew or historical information/figures that were not very well known and I acted as if I had never heard of them before just so I could hear them again from you.

The way you talked about stories was majestic. The description of details was done in such a meticulous manner. The emotion in your tone of voice was embedded with raw sincerity.

You ignited a fire in me and caused me to be more interested in history, politics, art, literature, humanity, revolution, psyche.. I particularly remember this one moment when I was fifteen and we were studying ancient Greek one afternoon. You turned to me as you were leaving to go home and said : ‘History is never certain or over. You can only find the truth from constant search and junction’.

There were times when I didn’t look forward to lessons - not because of you but because of the homework. I would find it hard to concentrate and you would call me out on it not in a strict attitude but instead in a concerned one. It was because you knew I could do much better and you wanted me to realize it as well. You were definitely right, by the way.

You are such an amazing human being. I feel you understand me on a deeper level because you possess this open mindedness that makes your soul timeless.

I like how we can go out and talk for hours over coffee as if we’re friends but there’s still a mutual respect. I don’t see you only as someone who was once my teacher and you don’t see me only as someone who was once your student.

I don’t think I can thank you enough and I’m sure I have missed out a lot of memories but this is all I could think of.

Love,

Marilena

4. A Letter To A Stranger

Dear stranger,

It’s funny how you just walked into the TV/waiting room area, looked at me and then at the TV. I said ‘Hello’ and you returned the favor with a smile.

I then asked if you were also waiting for your clothes to dry to which you replied ‘Yes’ and then turned to open the door on your left which was labeled ‘For Staff’ and has been locked since the beginning of time (kidding – it’s generally locked to all students and.. students go to the laundry room for the majority of the time). I acted as if I was absorbed with the TV so you didn't feel too embarrassed.

I was by myself and made the same mistake at the beginning of the year in hopes of finding a bathroom behind that door (there's something about 'For Staff' that strikes your curiosity.. or makes you believe in an alternate portal to Narnia, for that matter).

I realize it can be quite awkward when you’re in a confined space or using similar facilities with a person/group of people you don’t particularly know. Honestly though, I really didn't have a problem if you wanted to hang out and watch ‘The Simpsons’ on Channel 4 earlier.

From,

Another stranger

Online Users

3. A Letter To Someone You Hate Or Dislike

I can honestly say there is no person in particular I can think of who I hate or dislike. That may sound fake or a lie but I really don't have a particularly strong emotion of hate or dislike towards a specific person.

I would maybe address this to close minded people; racists, fascists, sexists - any person really who is not educated enough to realize the sanctity of life and human dignity.

I am not the first or the last person to talk about these topics and I don't think the "letter" will be too long either. I think I want to make a poem out of it. Here goes.

I was put on this earth with a set of characteristics according to predisposed divine decision.
I was given a national identity based on borders which are always being mentioned with precision.
Take away my passport, my languages and my degrees.
Come and spend some time with me, look at my eyes and see your ancestors as refugees.
Pure race does not exist.
Superiority of any kind is a phenomenon which should never persist.
Historic examples, genocide and  fanaticism appear in repetition.
It's so ironic how my mind is running with symbolic composition.
The superficiality of titles will never cease to amaze me.
The emptiness of nationalistic pride will restrain thee.
Accept the diversity that surrounds the view.
Only then will the mosaic miracle of life seem comprehensible - maybe even true.
The light of change begins from within.
The spark is initiated by personal reflection.


























Online Users

2. A Letter To Someone You Love

I don’t know who to address this letter to or what kind of love is meant because there are quite a few people that come to my mind.

Dear -,

I have written letters to you in the past indirectly in the form of poetry. Some of the poetry is in forms of folded paper in my ‘experience folder’, some of it is scribbled away in notebooks and some of it is ingrained in my heart.

I often reminisce about certain experiences and if there was something I should have said or done differently; or if I should not have mentioned my feelings at all, for that matter. I sometimes wonder if I would have been a better person in a given situation or someone you would have trusted more if it were not for the uncertainty of emotion and the hesitance of inflicting unwanted pain.

There are times when I think about how chaotic those years were.. how I had no idea what I was doing (I don’t think I even know that now to be honest) but I know that what I felt was real and pure and that’s all that mattered.

I correlate you with some changes that occurred in my life that certainly define me now. You, amongst a few others, were one of the first people to fuel my curiosity and interest in the world around me in terms of art, literature, revolution, culture, music, politics, independent thought and so on.

The way you used to write would leave me completely breathless. I’m not sure if it was due to the fact that I felt exited each time you used to send your writing my way or because of the immense and raw truth of that which was being depicted. Maybe it was a combination of both.

I remember sometimes looking at you from afar, feeling vulnerable about the way I felt and not being able to believe a person could hold so much beauty.

Sometimes I get this yearning and feel as if I’m missing out on some of the things going on in your life. There are moments where I worry about you and wonder if you’re okay. Simultaneously, I’m scared that I will ultimately lose track of who you become and vice versa.. but I smile because I know you’re out there making your way and gaining those experiences we so often spoke of back then.

I hope you’re doing well.
Love,
Marilena

Online Users

1. A Letter To Your Present Self

Dear Marilena,

It’s the first letter and I have already cringed at the reference of my name. Here goes.
You know.. you can do certain things if you just work a bit harder, right? What is it that’s keeping you from reaching those goals? There’s a limit that you have proved can be passed if there’s dedication and hard work. You shouldn’t abruptly stop after the first achievements. Maybe it’s just a part of who you are but you’re not really reaching your full potential that way and we both know that very well.

Regarding the s thing - I wouldn’t worry too much about it. That’s another thing you can do if you put your mind to it, bro, seriously.

The conversations always serve a purpose. Perspective is everything. You can learn from every person that crosses your path.

Your chemistry resit will be over before you know it! Just be patient. Youtube videos can be quite useful, right? Regardless of R/S enantiomers, I hope you enjoy the summer as much as you can and make some great memories with new and old people.

It’s getting late. We have to wake up early tomorrow – it’s the chemistry. Hang in there!

Love,

Marilena

P.S Don’t forget to finish the remaining yoghurt tomorrow!

Online Users

A Month Of Letters Challenge

28/06/10

I remember I was at this local camp in my hometown with my twin sister. My Mom and older sister came to see us and they told us they wanted to tell us something after we had our dinner. We hastily ate and made our way back to them to see what their news was. We were sitting in the car and my Mom couldn’t talk. My older sister took a deep breath and told us ‘You guys, Nene passed away’.

I had never had anyone close to me die. I remember I had never felt that sort of pain before. I remember this little girl I had started talking to, whenever she used to see me she used to run into my arms for a hug. She did the same that day and I could not hold back the tears.

I remember going behind this building in camp where toilets/showers were located and not being able to breathe. I looked to the right and there was the moon with a star - it had not gotten dark yet.

That was a very important year for me. That’s when a lot of changes occurred and I’m not sure if it was because of her death that I started becoming more interested in some things that undoubtedly define me now.

She was and still is a hero of mine. She was such a gentle, kind and loving soul. I remember when we used to visit her in Lebanon, she would open the door and kiss us several times on each cheek and make funny noises while she said ‘Abaou! Abaou!’. She used to make lemonade for us in these large plastic cups. 

I still remember the way her skin felt. Some parts of her arms were always colder than others.

She would share our excitement teach time she cut off pieces of lettuce for us to feed the turtles on her balcony (my siblings and I all had a turtle we personally named).

She was a talented cook. I remember wondering how she could make such a variety and quantity of food. She used to always sit on the same chair for meals - right from the head of the table.

I won’t forget the stacks of albums with pictures of family members and friends on that table between the piano and sofa. We’d all go through them each summer as if we had never seen them with the same curiosity and interest.

I have a fond memory of the rooms of the house with their high ceilings, paintings, colorful windows, antiques and books. The mattresses of the two beds in one room made sort of ”dent” but I felt that I was being cradled each time I’d sleep there.

The thin orange paper she used to give us when we wanted to draw or write things will always make me smile. One of my first attempts at poetry occurred in her house. I would write sentences that rhymed and would put a title, date and signature on each piece of paper. I would then proceed to go out to the main living room with a proud walk and read what I thought was highly original and non attempted poetry by my precursors.

These are few of the many stories I can think of.

Miss and love you, Nene. I’ll try to make you proud.

Online Users