Latest Stories
Most recently published stories on Vocal.
No ICE, No KKK, No Fascist USA
"I don't 'do' politics." Politics will do you, regardless. Watching from the sidelines for the last year I can see far too many similarities in the way Trump's ICE Gestapo is to Nazi Germany. Considering the United States just invaded Venezuela and kidnapped their President and his wife I would say we are there.
By Lyvia Jack16 days ago in History
Why Tech Now Feels Older Than It Is
There was a time when new technology felt unmistakably new. You could sense it immediately — the first swipe on a touchscreen, the first app that replaced something physical, the first moment your phone felt smarter than expected. Innovation arrived with friction, excitement, and sometimes confusion.
By Shahjahan Kabir Khan16 days ago in Journal
Catholic Social Teaching and Modern Life
Catholic Social Teaching is a rich tradition that provides moral guidance on how to live out faith in society. Rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the Church, it addresses issues of human dignity, justice, care for the poor, and responsible stewardship of the world. Understanding Catholic Social Teaching helps believers apply their faith to modern challenges while staying true to God’s call for love, compassion, and justice.
By Sound and Spirit16 days ago in Journal
The Role of Confession in Spiritual Growth
Confession, also called the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is one of the most powerful and transformative practices in Catholic life. Through this sacrament, Catholics seek God’s forgiveness for sins, experience His mercy, and receive spiritual guidance. Far from being a routine obligation, confession is a vital pathway to spiritual growth, healing, and deeper communion with God. Understanding its purpose, benefits, and proper approach can enrich a believer’s faith and daily life.
By Sound and Spirit16 days ago in Journal
The Art of Caregiving. Honorable Mention in Instructions Included Challenge.
Step 1: Patience is a Virtue Your loved one may be in a bad mood, driven by frustration, pain, or depression at being in their current state. This is normal, and expected. As their caregiver, it is up to you to boost their morale, which can be done with positive affirmations and/or physical gestures of love; e.g. hand holding, back rubbing, showering with praise. Note: keep in mind that too much praise can be detrimental. The path to healing has no participation awards, and there are times when a firm yet gentle hand is needed. These occasions may coincide with doling out medication, feeding, and attempts to foster independence. If you have the luxury of being in a hospital/institutional setting, extending patience to the facility's staff is a must. They cannot be everywhere at once, and there are other patients on their rotation besides your loved one. In rare cases where staff members seem especially inattentive, it is considered polite to refrain from wringing necks and spouting verbal abuse. The general rule of thumb is the kinder you treat the staff, the friendlier and more helpful they will be to your loved one in return. This is harder to achieve for many people in a caregiver role, but over time the self-inflicted wounds from chewing one's own tongue to hamburger will heal given sufficient time. Your patience and nerve will be tested at all times. It is of vital import that you remain calm, supportive, and flexible, so that you can cater to whatever needs your loved one may have. Additional restraint may be required if your patience is repeatedly taxed, and not met with the appreciation you feel is deserved. Overall, however, the bulk of your patience will usually be rewarded.
By Natalie Gray16 days ago in Fiction
