Be the change that you want to see...
The most positive change starts from within. If you don’t believe it, you will never see it....
Self preservation is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as follows:
1. The preservation of oneself from destruction or harm.
2. A natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one's own existence.
Depending on your state of mind, you may interpret one or both as a pure state of selfishness. You are not wrong, you just don’t have all of the facts. Self preservation is a defense mechanism that allows you to make decisions that are in your best interest.
If you are still questioning in 2020 if your vote counts, or make the arguement for “Why” your vote doesn’t count, you are being selfish. If you choose to not participate in the events that shape your own livelihood, you are being selfish. Survival is not so much about having your way at the polls, it is about cementing or preserving a sense of well-being.
Black Lives Matter, as they should also on voting day. How do we as black parents instill a sense of direction in our children if we refuse to acknowledge that we are citizens and at best have the right to vote. We inadvertently pass down the same message to generations as we are being instructed to do. Voter suppression has a job to do and when we follow the narrative and continue to argue over the trivial aspects of “Why”, we can never move to the next page as a collective.
We are all in survival mode, but I need everyone to upgrade to preservation and recognize yourself as the Kings and Queens that are you are and do what it is that you were set on this Earth to do! We cant wait on anyone else to do it for us. Our friends on the other side are asking how they can help because we are the ones who know what to do.
To begin, take a self assessment. Recognize your creativity and cultivate it. That drive that inspires you is unique. The state of your mentality is dependent upon your ability to withstand change rather than accept defeat.
Be advised, that there are also limits to withdtanding change that no longer serves you or your community. The consequence of one group being on the same page while the other is not in regards to policy results in the same implied principles while social aspects remain the same.
A heartfelt example of this was caught on camera at the March of justice for George Floyd. Three generations of black men were passionately expressing how they felt. The two older men were clearly not on the same page with how to resolve the situation. In the balance hung the youth who was left to bear the cross of his people for the future. The irony of history repeating itself was heartbreaking to see.
The only thing that we can control is how we respond to the situation. History has proven that not only are we resilient, but that we have an advantage that the hierarchy may not be privy too. We have the blueprint for positive change. We are wise in that we have learned from the mistakes of others, while the foolish continue to learn from their own mistakes.
Not only is it your right, but it is your responsibility. Let’s Be the Change that we want to see and answer the call. Freedom has never been free. If simply surviving is no no longer serving you, it is probably the same for your community. Use your voice and vote. Showing up is half the battle especially when no one expects you to win. Don't be so selfish as to give away your voice too.
Much Love,
Carly T.
About the Creator
Carly Tillotson
I am an aspiring writer looking to make a difference in the world. Our voices are unique, and so should each one be heard. I intend to use this platform to influence change and create dialogue on issues that revolve around social justice.
Keep reading
More stories from Carly Tillotson and writers in The Swamp and other communities.
Black Lives Matter
Black Lives Matter is not a terrorist organization. It is a movement whose narrative has been hijacked like any other activism that promotes social change. Unfortunately, there will always be opportunists ready to re-write history as they see fit. Propaganda in the media is nothing new. In fact, it’s dependency of content thrives on negative press. However, it is decided upon the people on how you you choose to respond.
By Carly Tillotson6 years ago in The Swamp
Here’s Everything Investors Need to Know About the Historic Silver Rally in 10 Charts
The precious metals market is experiencing an unusual surge, and silver is stealing the spotlight. After years of relatively muted performance compared to gold, silver prices have recently skyrocketed, attracting renewed attention from retail and institutional investors alike. Analysts describe the rally as historic, not just for its speed, but also for the market dynamics driving it. For anyone with exposure to precious metals—or considering entering the market—understanding what’s fueling the rally is critical. Investors are increasingly turning to visual data, such as charts, to make sense of trends, compare performance, and assess risks. In this article, we break down the silver surge and highlight the most important insights in 10 key charts that explain why this rally is capturing global attention. 1. Silver Price Over the Past Decade The first chart shows silver prices from 2016 to 2026. While the price remained relatively stable for much of the last decade, recent months have seen dramatic upward movement. This spike reflects a combination of increased industrial demand, investor interest, and macroeconomic uncertainty driving safe-haven buying. Key takeaway: Silver is breaking through historical resistance levels, hinting at a potential shift in market sentiment. 2. Gold-to-Silver Ratio Investors often watch the gold-to-silver ratio as a measure of relative value. Traditionally, silver trades at a lower price than gold, but the ratio can signal whether silver is undervalued. Recent charts show the ratio declining sharply, meaning silver is gaining faster than gold—a bullish signal for silver investors. Key takeaway: Historically, periods when the ratio drops have been followed by significant silver price gains. 3. Silver ETFs Inflows Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are a major driver of precious metal investment. One chart highlights inflows into silver ETFs over the past two years. Surging inflows indicate strong investor demand, particularly from institutional players seeking exposure without owning physical silver. Key takeaway: Investor appetite is at a decade-high, contributing to upward price pressure. 4. Mining Production vs. Demand Supply constraints can fuel rallies. One chart compares global silver mining production to industrial and investment demand. Production has been relatively flat, while demand for electronics, solar panels, and silver bullion has increased. Key takeaway: Tight supply relative to demand is supporting prices and creating upward momentum. 5. Inflation Trends and Precious Metals Silver, like gold, is often considered a hedge against inflation. A chart comparing UK, US, and global inflation rates to silver prices shows a correlation: periods of rising inflation often coincide with rising silver prices. Key takeaway: Inflation fears are likely contributing to the current rally, as investors seek to preserve purchasing power. 6. Silver Futures Trading Volume Futures markets provide insight into investor sentiment and speculation. A chart showing trading volume in silver futures contracts reveals heightened activity in recent months, suggesting that both hedgers and speculators are positioning for further gains. Key takeaway: High futures volume indicates confidence—and volatility—can be expected in the near term. 7. Industrial Demand Segments Unlike gold, silver has major industrial uses in electronics, solar energy, and medical devices. One chart breaks down silver demand by sector, highlighting how growth in renewable energy and tech industries is boosting silver consumption. Key takeaway: Structural demand from technology and energy sectors underpins long-term bullish trends. 8. Retail Investor Interest Retail investors are flocking to silver as part of a broader alternative investment trend. A chart tracking online search interest, social media mentions, and retail trading platforms shows spikes during key market events. Key takeaway: Retail demand can amplify price movements, creating momentum-driven rallies. 9. Comparative Performance With Other Assets Another chart compares silver returns versus gold, equities, and bonds over the past 12 months. Silver has outperformed most traditional asset classes, particularly in periods of market volatility. Key takeaway: Silver’s recent outperformance positions it as a compelling diversification tool for investors. 10. Historical Price Surges Finally, a chart showing historic silver rallies places the current surge in context. While the rally is impressive, past cycles suggest that volatility can be significant, and sharp corrections are possible. Key takeaway: Investors should balance enthusiasm with caution, recognizing that silver’s historical price swings can be extreme. What This Means for Investors The historic silver rally is driven by a mix of macroeconomic, industrial, and speculative factors. Inflation concerns, tight supply, industrial demand, and strong retail and institutional interest have all converged to push silver to multi-year highs. However, like all commodities, silver is volatile, and investors need to consider: Timing and entry points for investment Portfolio diversification to manage risk Long-term versus short-term investment strategies Charts provide clarity, but they also highlight the unpredictable nature of commodities markets. Understanding trends, correlations, and historical patterns is essential for making informed decisions. Final Thoughts Silver is no longer just a “poor man’s gold.” Its historic rally in 2026 demonstrates its relevance as both an investment and an industrial commodity. For investors, the surge offers opportunity—but also risk. By examining these 10 charts, it becomes clear that while momentum is strong, careful research and a long-term perspective remain key. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to precious metals, understanding the forces behind the rally will help you make better-informed decisions. Silver’s story in 2026 is a reminder that commodities markets can surprise, reward, and challenge investors all at once.
By Muhammad Hassan3 days ago in The Swamp
Omani-Italian Relations Enter New Economic Chapter
Oman and Italy are taking their longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship to a new level, exploring opportunities to boost trade, investment, and technological collaboration. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman has emphasized the importance of deepening economic ties with Italy, signaling a fresh chapter in bilateral cooperation.
By Aarif Lashari6 days ago in The Swamp
The Devil's Cut
“Comrade, finally you’re awake.” The voice was smooth, sensual. A flickering incandescent bar was all that lit the white, sterile room. All Vladimir remembered was everything going black. He tried to move his arms and found them strapped to the gurney.
By Matthew J. Fromm7 days ago in Fiction
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.