Self-nominated Stories by Jan Vajda

My best stories selected from ILLUMINATION

Dear ILLUMINATION readers and editors,

this is my self-nomination to become a part of the ILLUMINATION-Curated. I’m grateful to be part of a vibrant publication as ILLUMINATION and I’m ready to take the next step. I chose these four stories as the best published in ILLUMINATION.

A Mindset For Our Infinite Growth

#Spirituality #Mindfulness

Hopefully, the pandemic is a wake-up call for the entire humanity because we have reached enormous levels of ignorance. However, we shouldn’t need it to change our ways. We can’t wait for catharsis because we can die waiting. We can start behaving like adults anytime. There are no limits to our growth — the scenario when humanity doesn’t survive but thrives is possible. But it all starts within, with every single one of us.

Humanity Is Dumbest It Has Ever Been

#Culture #Spirituality

Despite the enormous advancement humanity has made, we have never been dumber. The level of culture and entertainment millions of people consume is extremely shallow. We don’t think critically and we don’t like to get provoked. But countless times we have also proved that were are able to produce the art of astounding beauty. When we feed our natural curiosity the results are remarkable. There has to be meaning for whatever we consume and create.

3 Lessons I’ve Learned on My Way to 500 Followers

#Writing #Creativity

My journey to 500 followers on Medium has been a remarkable one. I derived it into three lessons. Firstly, my way is not your way. We all climb our own ladder and if we enjoy the process, there’s no good or bad. Secondly, writing isn’t only for writers, writing is for everybody. It makes us more competent and competitive, it makes us better. Thirdly, by helping others we help ourselves. We thrive the most when everybody around us thrives.

When Cultures of the World Dance With You

#Culture #Life Lessons

Every summer between the ages of 16 and 24, I was a part of the organizational team at the folklore festival in my hometown. I was the guide of groups from all around the world. That’s why every summer I danced with the culture of the world. This experience has taught me to not only tolerate other cultures but to embrace them. We are all the same, united in our variety. That’s why I worship my Indian elephant friend — Ganesha, The Remover of Obstacles.

Thank you ILLUMINATION and Dr Mehmet Yildiz for considering my collection.

Take care, my friends!