I watched a bird today through the window of the waiting room. It was easy to see: dark and moving against the bright white background of falling snow and winter drifts.
The bare branches of the small tree didn't look remarkable to me, but what do I know? Me a grumpy human not given to hopping, only one small hurried cup of coffee so far today, and besides my eyes aren't what they used to be. Those branches could have been made of gold and silver and I wouldn't have known it from this distance.
But, boy- that little bird must have been looking for something pretty specific. It was all over that tree. Hopped and pecked its way along a branch, then fluffed its feather and shook its wings for a bit in that thin Michigan morning light before taking a small jump to a higher branch and repeating the process.
I had nothing better to do than to keep watching the progress. It has been a long month already and it's only the fifth of March. It feels like at least the tenth of forever right now, though. Too much unrest, too many lies, too few promises kept.
You'd never know it from watching that little bird, though. Just hopping with what looks like persistence and patience, making its way methodically along those branches. Looking for something that I can't even imagine.
There are no berries. It's 26 degrees out today- there are no bugs or worms alive right now. There's a wind advisory in effect; those branches are jittering and shaking and it isn't from the weight of the bird.
What is the mission here? What has this early bird so energized? There it goes, up another three levels- it's almost at the top. Funny that it hasn't backtracked; it just keeps moving up and up.
The time it takes to cover each branch is getting shorter because the branches are smaller, the reach less broad as it progresses up the tree. The time it takes in the sun is shorter, too. Soon it will- there; it made it to the top.
Now what?
What will it get, what will any of us get, I suppose, from our daily self-appointed tasks? They seem so urgent, so must-be-done while we do them, but then what?
This little dark bird just spent (what is it? 20 minutes now?) all that time making its way through that tree looking for something that obviously isn't there all for, for nothing? And now that's done what is the next thing on its to-do list?
How much longer am I going to sit here waiting and watching this bird, anyway? I have things to do. I don't actually want to be here today. It seems like every yearly check-up just turns into Stupid Human Tricks filled with appointments here, scans, there, needle sticks, forms, and waiting waiting waiting.
Yes; I do know that five hours of sleep isn't enough. I do know that flossing is important. I do know that reduced stress is best. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
I also know that I am fortunate to have these visits covered by insurance. I am grateful for the work that we have that makes this happen. I'm grateful for the home, the jobs, for each other.
That doesn't mean that I endure these visits with any of the grace and gratefulness that I know I should have. I certainly am not hopping for the heck of it like that bird. That bird just sitting there of the top of the tree like a metal knob at the top of a flagpole.
Now what is it going to do, now that it made it to the top? It's fluffing those wings. maybe it'll make its way down and start all over?
No.
It crouched and flew. Flew right toward that sun. Flew away. Free.
About the Creator
Judey Kalchik
It's my time to find and use my voice.
Poetry, short stories, memories, and a lot of things I think and wish I'd known a long time ago.
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Britain in Talks With NATO to Boost Arctic Security
The Arctic Is No Longer a Frozen Backwater For decades, the Arctic sat quietly on the margins of global politics—remote, frozen, and largely ignored. That era is over. Britain is now in talks with NATO to strengthen Arctic security, acknowledging growing risks posed by Russia and China. In a notable shift, London’s assessment aligns closely with warnings long emphasized by Donald Trump, particularly as he continues to express strategic interest in Greenland. What once sounded like an eccentric fixation has evolved into a serious geopolitical conversation. The Arctic is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most contested regions, and Britain is positioning itself to play a larger role. Why Britain Is Paying Attention Now Although the UK is not an Arctic nation, it is an Arctic-adjacent power with significant strategic interests. British officials increasingly view the High North as critical to national and allied security. Melting ice is opening new shipping routes, exposing untapped natural resources, and making military movement easier than ever before. Britain’s talks with NATO focus on intelligence sharing, joint exercises, surveillance capabilities, and protecting undersea infrastructure such as communication cables and energy pipelines. These are not abstract concerns. Any disruption in the Arctic could have immediate consequences for European security and global trade. In short, what happens in the Arctic does not stay in the Arctic. Russia’s Expanding Arctic Footprint Russia is the dominant military power in the Arctic, and it is not slowing down. Moscow has reopened Soviet-era bases, deployed advanced missile systems, expanded its icebreaker fleet, and increased patrols across the region. The Arctic coastline represents a core part of Russia’s nuclear deterrent, making it strategically vital to the Kremlin. From NATO’s perspective, this military buildup creates both risk and uncertainty. Britain, which has long been vocal about Russian aggression—from Ukraine to cyber warfare—sees the Arctic as another front where deterrence must be strengthened before tensions spiral. The concern is not necessarily an immediate conflict, but miscalculation. In a region with harsh conditions and limited communication infrastructure, even minor incidents could escalate rapidly. China’s Quiet but Steady Arctic Ambitions While Russia’s presence is overt, China’s Arctic strategy is more subtle—and equally concerning to Western planners. Beijing calls itself a “near-Arctic state,” a label that has raised eyebrows in Europe and North America. Through investments, research stations, and partnerships, China is laying the groundwork for long-term influence. Britain shares NATO’s concern that China could use civilian projects for dual-use purposes, blending scientific research with intelligence gathering and infrastructure control. As Arctic shipping routes become commercially viable, China’s interest in controlling parts of the supply chain only grows. London’s alignment with these concerns reflects a broader shift in UK foreign policy: China is no longer viewed solely as an economic partner, but as a strategic competitor. Trump, Greenland, and Strategic Reality Donald Trump’s repeated interest in Greenland—most famously his suggestion that the United States should buy it—was widely mocked at the time. Yet behind the headlines was a strategic logic that many Western governments now openly acknowledge. Greenland sits at the heart of the Arctic, hosting vital air and naval routes between North America and Europe. It is also rich in rare earth minerals critical for modern technology and defense systems. As ice recedes, Greenland’s strategic value only increases. Britain’s current position, which aligns with Trump’s warnings about Arctic vulnerabilities, shows how quickly political perceptions can change. What once seemed unconventional now appears prescient. NATO’s Arctic Awakening NATO has traditionally focused on Eastern Europe and the North Atlantic. The Arctic, despite its importance, received less coordinated attention. That is changing. Britain’s talks with NATO reflect a broader alliance effort to integrate Arctic defense into its core strategy. This includes: Increased joint military exercises in cold-weather environments Enhanced monitoring of Russian and Chinese activity Strengthening cooperation with Arctic nations like Norway, Canada, and Denmark Protecting critical undersea and satellite infrastructure For Britain, this is also about credibility. As a leading NATO member and a key military power, the UK wants to demonstrate that it can contribute meaningfully beyond its immediate geography. Climate Change as a Security Multiplier One of the most striking aspects of Arctic security is how closely it is tied to climate change. Melting ice is not just an environmental issue—it is a strategic one. New sea lanes shorten travel between Asia and Europe, while access to oil, gas, and minerals becomes easier. This transformation increases competition and reduces natural barriers that once limited military movement. Britain’s involvement reflects recognition that climate-driven changes are reshaping the security landscape faster than traditional institutions were designed to handle. In this sense, Arctic security is a preview of future global challenges where environmental change and geopolitics collide. Domestic and Diplomatic Balancing Acts Britain’s Arctic engagement is not without challenges. Increased military involvement raises questions about defense spending, priorities, and escalation risks. Diplomatically, London must balance deterrence with dialogue, avoiding actions that could unnecessarily provoke Russia while still protecting allied interests. There is also the question of public awareness. Arctic security lacks the visibility of conflicts like Ukraine, making it harder to sustain political attention. Yet policymakers increasingly argue that prevention is cheaper—and safer—than crisis response. What This Means Going Forward Britain’s talks with NATO mark an important shift in how the Arctic is viewed: not as a distant frontier, but as a central arena in 21st-century security. Agreement with Trump-era assessments on Russia, China, and Greenland underscores how geopolitical realities can outlast political controversies. As competition intensifies, the Arctic will likely become a testing ground for cooperation, deterrence, and strategic foresight. Britain’s involvement signals that mid-sized powers are no longer content to watch from the sidelines. Final Thoughts The Arctic is warming faster than any other region on Earth—and so are the geopolitical tensions surrounding it. Britain’s move to boost Arctic security with NATO reflects a growing consensus that ignoring the High North is no longer an option. Whether driven by Russia’s militarization, China’s quiet expansion, or lessons drawn from Trump’s blunt warnings, one truth stands out: the future of global security may well be shaped at the top of the world, where ice, ambition, and power now intersect.
By Muhammad Hassanabout 3 hours ago in Earth
Milo Manheim
Milo Manheim has steadily built a reputation as one of Disney’s most recognizable young stars, thanks to his charm, musical talent, and approachable screen presence. Known widely for his breakout role in Disney Channel’s Zombies franchise, Manheim has now found himself at the center of online discussions surrounding Disney’s ambitious slate of live-action adaptations. Among these, the idea of a Tangled live action film has sparked intense fan curiosity, with Milo Manheim frequently mentioned in speculative casting conversations. While Disney has not officially confirmed every detail, the growing buzz around a Disney Tangled live action project reflects the enduring popularity of the animated classic and the excitement surrounding its potential cast. Milo Manheim’s Rise in Disney Entertainment Milo Manheim entered the spotlight with a natural ease that made him instantly relatable to younger audiences. As the son of actress Camryn Manheim, he inherited a strong foundation in performance, but his success has been distinctly his own. His work blends humor, sincerity, and musical confidence—qualities that align closely with Disney’s storytelling style. Beyond Disney Channel films, Manheim has expanded his range through stage performances and competitive television, proving he is more than a one-note actor. This versatility is one reason his name continues to appear in conversations about major Disney roles, including speculation around Tangled. Why Tangled Remains a Perfect Live-Action Candidate Released in 2010, Tangled reimagined the story of Rapunzel with humor, heart, and stunning animation. Over a decade later, it remains one of Disney’s most beloved modern fairy tales. The blend of adventure, romance, and self-discovery makes it especially suited for a live-action retelling. A live action Tangled film would follow Disney’s recent trend of revisiting animated favorites, offering a more grounded visual style while preserving the emotional core of the original. Fans are particularly interested in how the tangled live action cast would bring iconic characters to life, especially Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. Milo Manheim and the Flynn Rider Conversation One of the most common fan-driven theories places Milo Manheim in the role of Flynn Rider. The character’s mix of roguish confidence and underlying vulnerability aligns well with Manheim’s on-screen persona. Flynn Rider is not a traditional prince—he’s witty, flawed, and ultimately sincere, traits that Manheim has demonstrated across his performances. While Disney has not confirmed casting details, the speculation alone highlights how strongly audiences associate Manheim with roles that require both charisma and emotional depth. If chosen, he would join the broader tangled cast legacy that fans already adore. Rapunzel Live Action Casting Speculation Just as much attention surrounds the potential rapunzel live action cast. Rapunzel is a character defined by curiosity, resilience, and warmth, making her one of Disney’s most relatable heroines. Recently, online discussions have connected actress Teagan Croft to the role, leading to widespread interest in teagan croft tangled fan concepts. Croft, known for her compelling performances, brings a balance of strength and sensitivity that could translate well to a rapunzel live action portrayal. Interest in teagan croft movies and tv shows has grown alongside these casting rumors, as audiences imagine how she might embody the iconic princess. Building the Disney Tangled Live Action Cast A successful disney tangled cast live action would rely on chemistry as much as individual talent. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider’s relationship is central to the story, evolving from mistrust to mutual respect and love. Casting actors who can convincingly portray that journey will be key. Beyond the leads, characters like Mother Gothel and the supporting ensemble would also shape the film’s tone. Disney’s challenge lies in honoring the animated original while allowing actors to bring fresh interpretations. This balance has defined the success—or failure—of past live-action adaptations. The Importance of Staying True to the Story One reason Tangled has endured is its emotional honesty. At its heart, the film is about freedom, identity, and the courage to step into the unknown. A disney tangled live action adaptation must preserve these themes while adapting them for a new visual medium. Fans aren’t simply looking for a scene-by-scene remake; they want a story that feels familiar yet alive. With the right creative team and casting choices, the transition from animation to live action could deepen the emotional impact rather than dilute it. Milo Manheim’s Future Beyond Speculation Whether or not Milo Manheim becomes officially linked to tangled live action, the speculation itself reflects his growing influence in the industry. He represents a generation of actors shaped by Disney but not limited by it. His career choices suggest a desire to explore diverse roles while staying connected to the audience that supported his rise. As Disney continues to develop its live-action portfolio, actors like Manheim remain central to the conversation—not because of confirmed roles, but because audiences can already imagine them stepping into iconic characters. A Story Fans Are Ready to Revisit The excitement surrounding tangled live action cast discussions shows just how deeply the story still resonates. Rapunzel’s journey, Flynn Rider’s transformation, and the vibrant world of Tangled continue to inspire new generations of viewers. If and when Disney officially unveils its plans, the anticipation will only grow. Until then, the combination of Milo Manheim’s rising star power and the enduring magic of Tangled keeps fans engaged, hopeful, and eager to see how this beloved fairy tale might shine in live action.
By Saboor Brohi 4 days ago in Earth
Comments (7)
You told the story of a bird's life in this one. A story of flying free.
I’ve just been staring at the blackbirds and squirrels in my garden. I know they have taken the edge off the fury I feel with the world. This was beautiful reflective writing.
This was such a great piece that reflects one of this unsung moments in life... the art of waiting/ passing time! I love dit Judey!
'Sup Jk~bud - Such a coincidence: I have a 'Gaggle' (did I say that right?) of redheaded wood peckers hammering on my trees; not comic book funny Woody~Woodpeckers. I've tried to offer them some worms if they'd shut up, but no takers - Can't imagine why they do that; no calories in wood chips...! Sorry you didn't say hello while you were in Cali' - I would have treated for lunch, I've been busy helping clients~friends with the fire disaster. Best, j.k.in.la.
Lucky bird! I love the way you invite us to enter into your passing the time waiting by watching, pondering & reflecting upon the nature of this bird--all contrasted with the mundanity of a doctor's waiting room in a world gone mad with mendacity.
Whenever I'm in a waiting room with windows, I catch myself watching the birds. It's relaxing and soothing
Beautifully written!