Strike Magazine Athens Issue 03 by Strike Magazines

ISSUE 03

AT H E N S

CO-FOUNDER Nahdia Johnson EIC ASSISTANTS Caitlin Downing Nastasia Rozenberg

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kaitlyn Rutledge CD ASSISTANT Sunny Hakemy

Ellery Payne Madhu Ravi Jess Song

CREATIVE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

LAYOUT DIRECTOR GRAPHIC ARTS HEAD CONTENT Nastasia Rozenberg DIRECTOR DIRECTOR Tara Anastasoff LD ASSISTANT Jocelyn Peña CONTENT DIRECTORS Sydney Burton Campbell GAD ASSISTANT Blake Elizabeth Nitz ASSISTANTS Sydney Burton Madison Taylor Maddie Dalsimer Sarah Orji ASSISTANTS ASSISTANTS Clarrisa Costen Peighton Senges Elizabeth Swank Gabby Vitali Riley Keuroglian Tori Bishop

CASTING DIRECTOR Morgan Quinn

ASSISTANTS Ava Heltebran Melanie Levi Akimah Scott Emma Wong

Gabby Abreu Madison Arnold Lindsay Bolinger Sophia Boyer Angela Canales Caragan Cherry Melina Degroot Elaine Garvey Trinity Gates Kristen Haupt Blakely Henn Eli Huszagh Abigail Mapel Antonia Mason Kiana Shamsbafi Cayce Sherer Chiamaka Uwagerikpe Claire Wadzinski

EXTERNAL DIRECTOR

EXTERNAL

Sarah Harden

ED ASSISTANT Morgan Jones

BEAUTY DIRECTOR WRITING DIRECTOR PRODUCTION DIRECTOR STYLING DIRECTORS Harper Brand Claudia Butler Stephanie Lopez

Ashlyn Daughenbaugh

ASSISTANTS Gabby Abreu Natalie Bacome Alexandra Catalano Reagan Cox Carly Judenburg Elizabeth Kish Leah Nickerson

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR KK McCann

ASSISTANTS Defne Bozbey Dawson Brown Madison Byrd Carolyn Clark Nykia Cook Carson Hart Carter Peace

WD ASSISTANT Natalie Bacome COPY EDITORS

Ridha Islam Sophie McLeod Gianna Rodriguez Jordan Ross Shelby Wingate

WRITERS

Ellie Dover Chanel Gaynor Eloise McNair Sara Micale Isabella Patel Gianna Rodriguez Jordan Ross Amelia Sturkie Olivia Wakim Haley Wolf

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jasmine Fox Natalie Gillis Aisha Iyengar Isis Mayfield Ashley Moore Jocelyn Peña

VIDEOGRAPHERS Chloe Darveau Alex Hoefer Bailey Pelletier Audrie Uphues

SD ASSISTANT

Camille Campbell

ASSISTANTS Fatmata Bah

Sophie Baker Elise Carruthers Riley Chastain Rachel Egan Kayli McDaniel Skylar Perez Issy Regas Kyra Solovei Makayla Wynn

MARKETING DIRECTOR Jackie Nemanich

PR DIRECTOR Tara Torossian

ASSISTANTS FINANCE DIRECTORS Emily Alexander Kara Phillips Sophia Vallecillo

ASSISTANTS MERCHANDISE DIRECTOR Elizabeth Swank

Kylie Bensalah Lindsey Chen Jackie Vierneisel

Sydney Amling Mia Bonfiglio Rebecca Boulware Shayan Dawood Olivia Fallon Peyton Pose Sammy Wagner Bree Wilson

ASSISTANTS Ellina Berman Jonina Bullock Jenna Cahill Emily Cassidy Victoria Gospodinov Karli Keilitz Mahek Kothia Sydney Lumapas Shealan Malone Leah Nickerson Mary Margaret Perry Mary Renfroe Gracie Skinner

Almost finished. I never liked goodbyes as a child. When chapters in life closed, it always seemed to leave me in a frenzy, as a dark abyss full of unknowns awaited me. I constantly wondered what my next step would be and not knowing what the future holds would drive me crazy. Now, as I face the biggest unknown, stepping into the LABYRINTH of “young-adult life after college” and leaving this beloved magazine behind, writing my last letter as Editor-in-Chief of Strike Magazine Athens gives me a wave of tranquility. In my most humble opinion, there truly aren’t many experiences quite like this one. Serving as the co-founder and Editor-in-Chief. has challenged me to emerge into a completely different person. Through every obstacle faced in my journey as the EIC, I was able to learn so much about myself, growing not only as a leader but also as a friend. I am often asked why I think Strike has experienced such success in less than two years, and I can think of countless answers to this question. Strike Magazine was founded on the ideals of community, and it was of utmost importance that our Athens branch embodied that. When Strike was brought to Athens, our mission was to offer an opportunity for young professionals to express their talents through a simulated work environment: a place where each member played an integral role in how we functioned as an organization. That was missing on the campus of UGA. It was very important that we not only chose members who were diverse in their physical features but also diverse in thought. I then found that to sustain this organization, we needed to strive to create a sense of belonging. We have become a unifying community for those who may not have had a place for that in college. But even beyond that, we have created another family, our greatest success. My role as Editor-in-Chief went far beyond the extensive administrative task that it takes to run an organization of this caliber. My role was making sure that the bones of the organization were strong. The bones can only take a magazine so far, but the heart of Strike is our incredible staff. By nurturing relationships through constant conversations with our staff it became apparent that we were all going through our own mini labyrinths in life. Through all the trials in our staff’s everyday lives, this team continued to work extremely hard to make our organization its indisputable best, and this makes my goodbye a little easier. I cannot put into words how this whole have changed my entire to every single person who journey. It has truly been But, now, as I leave, I have this organization will breeding grounds for minded students. knowing that Sarah, have left a legacy minds that follow peace knowing done everything power to make proud of me. I have peace in that Strike Athens will this legacy for years to come.

magazine and organization as a life forever. I am so grateful has joined me on this the wildest experience. peace knowing that continue to be the artistic, businessI have peace Kaitlyn, and I for the brilliant us. I have that I have in my my family And forever, knowing Magazine continue on years and

For one last time, Strike Out,

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A labyrinth is defined as “a complicated irregular network of passages in which it is difficult to find one’s way; a maze.” However, the spiritual significance of a labyrinth is “a journey to a predetermined destination.” This is obvious in the very nature of a labyrinth, in that it only has one single path to the center. Issue 03, Labyrinth, encompasses how Generation Z is fulfilling our destiny as a force that changes fundamental societal truths in pursuit of a better future. Our generation is a light for a society going through a dark & confusing labyrinth. Rather than accepting reaching for the shiny facade, undefined “center of the labyrinth” as our purpose, we recognize the center as untouchable— our ultimate fate.

Kaitlyn Rutledge, Creative Director

LABYRINTH We choose to focus rather on the journey of the path, on the things we can control, and strive to be a light for others. We aim to spread love and positivity, to give life, and to help each other through the complications. Though it can be frightening the journey is what defines us. the next, towards our ultimate our purpose in the midst of xoxo,

and unclear, One step to fate, we find the labyrinth.

Sarah Harden, External Director

ABOUT THE ISSUE

CONTENTS

VALLEY OF ASHES

333

RESHUFFLING OF THE ATOMS

MY MIND, THE CLOCK

ICARUS

MAKING FISH OF ONE AND FLESH OF ANOTHER

PERSISTENCE OF MEMORY

GOOD VIBES, BAD OMENS

PARAMNESIA: SHATTER YOUR REALITY, FREE YOUR MIND

THE DIVINE FEMININE

HEAD OVER HEELS

RUIN MY NIGHT

VOX POPULI

FROM FETISHIZED TO HOLLYWOOD’S RISE

ID: A PERSPECTIVE ON FIRST GENERATION AMERICANS

HIDDEN HEART

LOVE.COM

Content Director: Elizabeth Nitz Content Assistants: Nastasia Rozenberg, Cayce Sherer, Blakely Henn Styling: Kayli McDaniel, Skylar Perez Beauty: Alexandra Catalano, Ashlyn Daughenbaugh Photography: Stephanie Lopez Videography: Audrie Uphues Writing: Gianna Rodriguez Layout: Nastasia Rozenberg, Sydney Burton, Sarah Orji Models: Ashley Terrell, Jackson Riddle, Jayda Woods

Readers intertwine ‘valley of ashes’, a phrase originated from Fizgerald’s The Great Gatsby, and religious thought into one. The well-known phrase may symbolize God watching over one as they make choices throughout their life, but this novel of fiction crosses into reality. There might not be a physical ‘valley of ashes,’ but feeling hovered over by religious upbringing affects, and in some lives, damages mental health. If someone isn’t uplifted by the religion they practice, it can start to feel like they’re drowning; there comes a point when they have to break the surface tension and rediscover their identity.

Thrown in and pushed under, there is no personal choice involved in being born and raised into the family’s religion. There is no question of whether or not the beliefs feel right; it’s being taught the rules of life, and that this is the only right way to live. These beliefs are the correct ones, and every other one is incorrect. The believer is fine, maybe even h appy to be prac ticing Eventually th this re e believe ligion r starts , beca becoming isn to feel use st ’t what G m o r e eerin od wan distan g off ts for t t from into hem. T t h e ir rel a d if h e wa i f eren g ter slo ion w t dir wly r h e n ectio ises u t h e y n can ntil t ’t be in he m feel like the cards. the p ind i erson s sun they’re k int oad ark, lo st space.

SUBMERSION

The believer drowns as thoughts of uncertainty flood into the mind. This isn’t what they truly believe in, and they’re starting to feel out of place in their own body and circle of loved ones. Getting older means getting exposed to other cultures and religions in school, work, and every day events. They’re afraid to break away from what they’re surrounded by because this religion is all they’ve ever known. In many religions, it is seen as a sin to live controversial lives or to identify with a minority community. According to a New York Times article, being part of the LGBTQ+ community, ending up a single mother, and divorce all might be considered sins by the religious beliefs. The drowning is religious trauma. It’s researched that consequences of such early religious trauma begin at an early age, and it isn’t an easy recovery process. All their life, the believer’s own family and members of their religion tell them that they have to be a certain way in order to be on the good side, so it takes courage to break through that layer of uncertainty and judgment to reach freedom— a rebirth.

DROWNING

The believer no longer strictly believes in what they’re told to believe in; they believe in themselves and their identity. Breaking away from religious identification has become more and more accepted; Pew Research Center found that the percentage of people that are religiously unaffiliated has gone up over the past decade. Church membership has fallen below the majority for the first time.

More people are freeing themselves from the anxiety of being a part of a community that they can’t be themselves with. There’s more focus on mental health and individual spirituality and less focus on pleasing others. This might have hurt some people along the way, but it is necessary to be happy. The believer is able to be reborn into their own identity.

It takes strength to break away from a version of oneself that they are displeased with to and confidently express the best, most authentic version of themself. Being born into a religion can be something that puts some at peace, but, if the believer isn’t a part of that some and is struggling with their identity and mental health, it’s important to seek help beyond prayer.

time good Yo to ! a hig bask Y he i r

ou are in you me ! Y r 11 o c l choices. This ti 1 er We Be read me m a. y fo a rt

bodies a mom e embeen in a limb ent wh b i o, v e e 22 ay havonfident spirit. Y with re e 2 o ur u m our c and to keep pus ur an an v hin g o n y ing gt la l c

igning for your o w is a l in life. T h is is n per ing o more s y yth d ng you that yo ou ona er ge to e telli life you d u do h r e s ur ar s the e r ve. ave els ward o

e life-changing mak g to u ne e d to be. vin re yo ha he y w way ! r

riod, you feel is pe ing , but you like yo h t s nings hea are ex u are ing nf u ded ac ur e co w begin D y b ne yo tl u he

As college students, we are in, arguably, in the most life-changing years of our lives. Through our toughest moments, we tend to cling to spiritual signs to explain moments in our ever changing worlds, looking to finally make it through the labyrinth of life. Rate your answers to each question from 1 to 5, and add up your totals for each corresponding angel number group. Your top three scores will tell you which era of life you’re currently in! 111 Do you feel like you are making big life decisions right now? Are you confused by what your life calling is or should be? Have you recently chosen to have an optimistic spirit about life choices, allowing yourself to be free of anxieties? 222 Do you feel like you have a higher calling in this world that you havent reached? Have you recently endured a hard time in your life and feel like you’re slowly coming out of the dark times/Are you experiencing positive life changes? Are you open to new relationships and abundant changes in your life?

tural bo e a nave gone trn leader r ’ u hrou , se Yo u ha ra. ife. Yo s want you to gh th r vin e 7 st l ngel striving t know e o be a e yo t ur ntinu u o

ff !

for others by mple a x e to an of getting know you s g a cess r hard work has pa rself o u pr t yo olute best self ! id o , ha abs r

333 Are you in a time where you feel like you need to make a lot of life changes? Is your current relationship with your partner flourishing? Do you find yourself listening to your heart over your head? Do you feel yourself connecting with your spirituality?

You are in you r living y luck o u r ver y 77 an y b e d y Co

for th aitingng as aings w f soul o d o ire bei ire ur entt either yourself or n t re yo bou change. g s a al s itu r

55 era. You self 5 ng event o are letti r u r bee ng i o n y g Y e chang R e n e v i alua in a p our f d a li h is is your time tote th o T gh fin e

Welcome to your 99 may take you. Pressu 9 era! re is You around yo those te whe u, but th build a re you e m evalua e R to b are an o e th e

ay b ere you m e confused a b e wh ow plac se you kn you have out n a ecau hing right no gre wh re i up b ortant tu want to be. w is to f at infl er Allo oc u ing mp re yo u st i whe ors that guide your w tho s de d fact c

fe e li ce on self ! en yourughts on ho se t ions. is

999 Do you feel like you have lost control over your life and need to get back on track? Do you feel that your actions have a great influence on others? Do you have a hard time being honest with where you are in life?

You ar e have go in you n r e t hro Fin u

333, a time of di which pat scove rin ht o your h take g e . will art to I so o

777 Are You feeling very self-aware right now? Are you naturally a leader, or feel like you? Do you feel like you are in your perfect place in life?

y erg y. ma e en so ativ ,a eg in. our fears nxieties, a nd ’re l of y l

555 Are you in a period where you need to let the past go and move forward past resentment? Do you feel like there are adjustments you need to make in your life? Do you find yourself having negative thoughts?

ies control y worr u were su our life. d n rro o Y rs a where yr environm unded ou a a e e o f on le d shine thr nts yoby n l p i oug u sit peo urself an ha o y d

ts. ub do

, and your ur life it’s impo surroun o y rtan di lf, ent, rse s mom cisions. Your futt to co ngs. u yo thi ke de ou find the co ure i nne rre s f n ma lp y ct e h p n

dy ultimate str mbo ur own pathe,ngth. u e sing yo p Y , yo hoo eriencing love and rote ou era re c exp s are encourag a sur ctin a a i n lso ngel g s ene e a ur a pi o

444 Would you describe yourself as being in love? Are you tired of waiting for things to happen in life impatiently? Do you feel like you are entering new beginnings in life at this moment?

Writing: Nahdia Johnson Copy Editing: Nastasia Rozenberg Layout: Nastasia Rozenberg, Ellery Payne

In y ou to this Earhappen r 44 or a path. You and 4 r t n er. ar Y

ay be w you mlf spirituaolndering , w ly e o t n h yoursdance and y and fo h l g t n o Ri t wi f abu ough your lab ur an low c ll o thr g yrin e u ath th

The feeling of being trapped. Generation Z grew up in a society where we were constantly told that there were problems to fix, with no guidance on how to fix them. This is the exploration of truth vs. lies in our society & the feelings of being trapped by the search to distinguish them from each other. Essentially, our generation has been thrown into this world, been fed lies & truths about societal issues, and is trying to discern them through trusting their own instincts.

Content Director: Elizabeth Nitz Content Assistants: Antonia Mason, Chiamaka Uwagerikpe, Nykia Cook Styling: Rachel Egan, Skylar Perez Beauty: Carly Judenberg, Alexandra Catalano Photography: Aisha Iyengar Videography: Bailey Pelletier Writing: Amelia Sturkie Layout: Maddie Dalsimer, Sydney Burton, Sarah Orji Models: Whit Pope, Carly Judenberg, Anna Grace Fantucci

On Behalf of Gen Z, My first Instagram account was created in the third grade. Much like my peers, I lived and breathed this new world of internet connectivity. I never let go of my iPod Touch– until I got my first iPhone in the sixth grade. The upgrade was monumental. It was all there, at my fingertips. The entire world, just a tap away. By expanding platforms, I began to share more posts, view more videos and take in more information; my mind revolved around my iPhone. After hours of absorbing content, reality was slowly warped. Every night I came home, shut the door of my bedroom and stepped into my new favorite realm: the world of high speed internet. Inside this new domain, the shackles that once held me back were released. My prospects were limitless. With no guidance, I conquered this empire on my own. However, my triumphs were short-lived. Suddenly, my mind seemed like a web of perpetually intertwining strings with no destination. My thoughts melted from my skull, my insecurities manifested hideously, the skin around my cuticles bled, my anxiety boiled, my growing pains ached. Was this what I desired? Trapped, I wondered how I could live without the internet. Could I survive? Without it, I was empty, but with it, I was surely not whole. Stuck in this conundrum, I grasped tightly to the ground below. “Stay here,” I would whisper. “Don’t divulge”. But there it always was, so unrelenting, scooping me up like shattered glass, it cradled my broken bones.

“Always hooked to those damn phones,” my grandmother would utter. Was I always hooked? Was that so bad? Surely I had my free will and could put it down if I wanted. But perhaps I didn’t want to; perhaps the internet was beneficial. The news, information, accessible knowledge –it was all there, calling out like sirens. S i m p l y tap to read, click to view, swipe to share. How could you not desire to deep dive into these dark waters with the possibility of swimming towards something consequential? I grew as the internet grew. Together as one, I felt my soul was tethered to the radiant light that filled my pores every night. My appearance, characteristics, personality, it all relied on what was curating the most likes. Selling my independence, I was drained; an empty vessel floating aimlessly across voids. Swallowed into an oblivion of solitude: the likes, followers, views, my only companions. Who do I turn to for guidance? My elders were ignorant of my entrapment, and I had to unwrap the tethers that clung to my skin myself.

Is These

it true? speculations?

Are These Perhaps,

they

real? temptations? fabrications.

Will I reach a new destination? Will I escape this deprivation?

Is it all just the imagination? Disassociation?

Ye s ! No?

Is it experimentation? Yes, Yes! Just capitalization.

The billboards, broadcasts parasitization. Invading my thoughts— inundation.

Dazed— I feel this is a hallucination.

Taxation? Carbonization? Starvation?

A way for segregation? Gentrification?

No- how? How is this all left for our generation? It must be the imagination.

But what if— What if we can not find reconciliation? Oh! the devastation.

Is our world destined for termination?

“How do I know what is real?” “It is all real.” “All?” “Yes all, but— that does not mean it is true.” “If it is not true, how can it be real?”

“When your eyes shut and your body falls limp… the dreams you seek are as real as the birds that awaken you. In the mundane meetings, when your thoughts begin to circle, Does your tenor stay intact? Do the words you hear touch your tongue? Are the colors that light your visions familiar? Does this mean it is not real? Perhaps untrue… but yes, still, real.”

THE LABYRINTH MIND “But where do I go when my body begins to numb and my visions blur? Who am I speaking to when I ask these questions that disrupt my meditation?” “Why do you think you go somewhere else? It is all here. Waiting within. A maze of your memories, spirits, thoughts, and journeys. Open your eyes. It is here.” “But I can not see it. Others can not see it”

“The words you can not see and the deafening noises of this voice; they repeat continuously echoing through the negative space that lives abundantly, no? Loud enough to stampede over the clamor outside. All this you hear, See, Smell, Touch, it is perceived within. I beg of you, open your eyes.”

“Am I different from everyone else? “Don’t you see? The experiences endured outside the comfort of this subconscious mind generate the fabrications you dwell on. Do not be fooled, they strive to cast a fog across your memory… seeking dreamless nights, a numb imagination, the inability to ask yourself— are they… deceiving me?

You must stay on track, never wander, keep your head down, doubt yourself; these are things they wish for.. It is because we intimidate them. The ability to touch the soul within; the very thing they lack. This creeping imagination that unlocks the solutions they seek, they long to unfold your dreams. Scared of our potential, they demand us to follow their path. Can you not see?” “So it is all a distraction then?” “If you wish to view it that way.” “Well should I?” “When you drift away at night do their broadcasts swallow your nightmares? Or do they champion your aspirations? Perhaps, the solution they seek has passed you by; a shooting star witnessed on your astral plane.

Or perhaps, it shares no importance. Something you wish to discard,, locked away accompanying your nightmares. You possess the ability to untie their lies, if you wish, or believe their accusations.” “I’m still lost…” “Aren’t we all? That is the beauty of the labyrinth mind— If you are not lost, what is it you have found?”

Tick tock tick tock

“On a multiple of five” Demands the mind Before starting a task

Tick tock tick tock

“Mop twice more” Commands the brain Before thoroughly cleaning the floor

Tick tock tick tock

“Try eight times” It tells me Before the door is locked

Tick tock tick tock

Writing: Claudia Butler Copy Editing: Gianna Rodriguez, Sophie McLeod Layout: Nastasia Rozenberg

My mind, the clock Diseased with obsession.

Tick tock tick tock

My mind, the clock Determined to unease Decimated by intrusions Dictated by thoughts

Tick tok tick tock

My mind, the clock Always stealing my time Urging tasks to complete And re-complete

Tick tock tick tock

All the seconds Spent waiting and re-waiting

All the minutes Spent repeating and re-repeating

All the hours Spent checking and re-checking

In the midst of our dissatisfaction with where we are, we distract ourselves with what we can consume and hope that it propels us closer to that brilliant sun.

Videography: Alex Hoefer Nastasia Rozenberg

Photography: Natalie Gillis Layout: Maddie Dalsimer, Madhu Ravi,

Models: Tejsh Desai , Carter Peace

Beauty: Ashlyn Daughenbaugh, Reagan Cox

Styling: Camille Campbell, Elise Carruthers

Content Assistants: Gabby Abreau, Sophia Boyer

happy. Once we accomplish this goal, have this object, meet this person—then we’ll be happy. Constantly looking up towards the sun, our vision is blinded by the light, and the path that we’re on becomes dark. Since we believe happiness only exists among the sun, there is no hope in embracing our place anywhere else. This bright light that we’re searching for blinds us, and we are unable to see the blue skies that already embrace us. With our noses turned up to the sky, we can’t smell the salty sea breeze. We can’t hear the rhythmic churn of the sea over the sound of our wings working hard to push us upward, towards what we believe is right for us, but we can’t even be sure of what is right yet.

Writing: Sara Micale

We are not much different from Icarus. We see satisfaction as a destination we can reach, a level to fly to. This destination is higher, brighter, warmer, and better from what we can see from below it. Our mind tells us once we reach this place, then we’ll be

Content Director: Blake Campbell

Icarus flies in the open space between the sun and the sea. Below him, the sea is dark and churning, the waves spitting violently. The sun above him is warm and glowing. Birds hover overhead in its radiance. There is something so enticing about that place above him where the sun resides, the light drawing him in. If he just flies a little higher, he’ll be warmer, he’ll be bathed in sunlight, and he’ll see everything below him in a new and brighter light. Although his wings are fragile, just feathers held together with wax upon his back, he puts them to work. To fly among the sun is the only serenity, the only source of satisfaction; the open space he occupies now is just not exciting enough.

We consume endless media made by those who are already sunkissed, living in the sun where we want to be. New clothes, new fads; more colorful feathers for our wings. We are always looking for something new and never satisfied with where we are or what we have in this present moment. All of this apathy for where we are and everything we do to distract ourselves from it does not go without consequence. The sea below us has filled with trash and waste from all that we’ve consumed in our unrelenting search for something to give us a spark of joy. In the end, that’s all it gives us, just a momentary spark of satisfaction. The feeling is fleeting, and once again we are on the hunt for something new and bright.

This interpretation of the story of Icarus plays with the sentiment that too much of anything is a bad thing. This portrayal explores the idea of opulence: the conflict of getting lost in humanity’s desire for luxury and grandiosity. Opulence results in individuals forgetting who they are outside of what they possess, and our generation immerses itself into the world of materiality. “The moral of the myth (of Icarus) warns against the needless search of instant satisfaction, in a way underlying the idea of sophrosyne (Greek: σωφροσύνη), a term that stands for healthy-mindedness, implying self-control guided by knowledge and balance.”

FLYING TH

FLYING THE

LYING TH

ING L L LING

LLING A FLLING FA

YING T N E H

N E

NNF

FLYING T FLYING TH

FLYING THE

L ING LLLLING

LING

FALLING FA

FLYING TH

EN N EN

H EN

TAKING THE JOURNEY IN THE MIDDLE

U NG

ING

N D

TAK I

TAK

TA K

OU GR

EM ND LE E U D M MID ID RO E MID DLE TA IDDLE G D GRO KIN GR LE LEG TH OUND D D TAKI UNDG THEOUN GR IDNLE GR OUN IADD K R MIDD O NG T TAKING G MT I E D DLE U THE MIDHE MID DRDOLUND ROUN M HEEDM I G G DLE GRD T E N G L R E L G E ODUN OUEN HDL GD INEGMTIDE GROU ID T ROUN K MD G EN TH TAKING THE MIDDLE GROUND HIN TGATAKING LITHE D T N D N I D TD G I K TAKING TAKING THE THE MIDDLE MIDDLE GROUND GROUND MIDDLE GROUND I M N K E H K TAK TA IANG TMIDDLE TAKING GROUND THE MIDDLE GROUND TAKING THE MIDDLE GROUND TAKING TAKTHE TA

T HE

However, this upward plight should not cause us shame. There’s a reason we feel enticed to climb higher: it’s all we’ve known and all we’ve been taught. Ingrained in us is a mentality to be the best and never settle for anything less than that. The role models that we look up to have reached the sun propelled by the wind from our hard-working wings. They continue to get richer and richer and have a life that we are told we should strive to have. They don’t stop at the sun, though. That height wasn’t their goal; they’ve ditched their waxy wings for rocket ships, flying high towards a place in the stars to leave behind the mess they know they’ve created. All we are taught is to follow in their trail, even though they are leaving us behind in their dust. You know the old saying: what goes up must come down. True too is for Icarus, as his wings graze the sun rays closely, he feels a scorching pain on his back. The wax holding his wings together is melting, dripping down his skin causing a burning pain. The feathers that once propelled him fall to the sea below, and soon his body follows. The damage done to his wings makes them unsalvageable. He free falls to the dark blue abyss below him, soon to be engulfed in the waves of misery and despair. Like Icarus, our wings were not built for the constant flight towards satisfaction. They grow tired and fail us, leaving us worse off than we were before in that sweet spot between the sun and sea. The reach towards the elusive sun distracted us from the focus we should have had on flying forward. A lush green island awaits at the end of this journey, but we were too caught up in the glow of the sun to ever see that. We can still swim in the sea, but it is more difficult to trudge through the blues than it would have been to continue flying peacefully. The need for satisfaction ultimately left us worse off. It becomes clear from below that happiness isn’t at a final destination anyway, it’s wherever we look for it. It didn’t have to be this way for Icarus, and it doesn’t have to be this way for us. The journey in the space between the sun and the sea is the path that we were meant to take, even if we didn’t notice the beauty in it at the moment. The sun shines down just the right amount and the sea’s salty air keeps us cool. With our gaze fixed on the sun, we were blind to the beauty that already surrounds us. Flying upwards constantly, yearning for more, negates the joy and surprises we would have come across in our destined path. Happiness and satisfaction aren’t a destination you can reach. The future where we think these feelings are hiding also isn’t a destination you can reach. We live only in the present and never reach the future; instead, it approaches us as we navigate it. Happiness is where we are, we just have to actively look for it, be grateful for it, and embrace it.

Writing: Isabella Patel Copy Editing: Ridha Islam, Jordan Ross, Claudia Butler Layout: Jess Song

Progression. It’s a simple word that holds bountiful significance. The term has become the theme of Generation Z. Unlike our predecessor generations, we have been pushing boundaries in the name of social justice, equality, and diversity. Instead of succumbing to the fear of adversity, we stare it in the eye with relentless conviction. This dedication has infiltrated the realms of beauty and fashion. Brands like Victoria Secret & Abercrombie have felt the wrath of Generation Z, and have had to completely undergo company rebranding ventures to stay relevant.Those brands are just two examples out of a plethora that have had to adjust to the inquiries demanded by our generation’s cohort.

These demands mainly circulate around having more diversity and inclusion within the products and campaign advertisement, which have been met with much success. While it is now the norm to see various individuals represented within a company’s products and services, there is still a huge subsection that has been ignored and arguably disregarded. The fashion industry has prioritized and prided itself on making clothes for able bodied individuals, leaving disabled people’s concerns and desires in the dark. Only until recently has fashion been a pinnacle of inclusivity. Just a mere few years ago, the whole industry revolved around Euro-centric beauty standards. The dissolution of these standards catapulted fashion into a new realm, but it unveiled the malicious culture surrounding the industry that was upheld forever a century. Not only is the industry inherently biases, but it’s simply inherently discriminatory. According to the Center for Disease Control, sixty-one million adults in the United States live with a disability, amounting to 26% of the population. With such a large portion of the population belonging within this demographic, the fashion industry is excluding millions of people that could be potential customers simply due to ignorantly sustaining abelism.

Not only are customers being excluded, but there is little to no representation of disabled models or designers. The lack of holistic representation creates deeply rooted flaws that affect millions of people. Adaptive clothing is extremely difficult to find, and simple Google searches on where to find these items have barren results. Consequently, individuals are having to conform to clothes that were not designed with them in mind. This creates an even larger issue, the issue of inadequate expression. Fashion serves as a creative outlet where people can freely and truly express themselves by their outward appearance. Many of us may take this as a simple luxury, the ability to tailor our expression exactly how we envision. The absence of adaptive clothing leaves many with limited options and an unsatisfied guise. With over sixtyone million people calling for the inclusivity movement of adaptive clothing, it’s infuriating that the fashion world has turned a blind eye. What must happen for this movement to gain momentum? Progression must vensue, and preferably at the hands of Generation Z. Generation Z has rallied behind the inclusion of race, sex, gender, and religious represenation withing all segements of culture, but now they must divert their attention to the inclusion of disabled people. Of course, this is no menial task.

Collective action, education, and genuine passion are the ingredients for the movement. Generation Z has excelled at mastering the use of social media for their personal objectives, From educating their followers on social justice movements to holding corporations accountable for unsavory business practices, all the bases have been covered. If Generation Z can use their influential power to elevate the voices of the oppressed and send a stern message to the fashion industry, then the lack of disbled representation will be an artifact of a fractured past.

Content Director: Tara Anastasoff Content Assistants: Nastasia Rozenberg, Melina Degroot, Caragan Cherry Styling: Camille Campbell, Makayla Wynn Beauty: Elizabeth Kish, Natalie Bacome Photography: Stephanie Lopez Videography: Bailey Pelletier Writing: Olivia Wakim Layout: Ellery Payne, Madhu Ravi, Nastasia Rozenberg Model: Tai Shlomi

Inspired by Salvador Dali’s “The Persistence of Memory,” this concept focuses on the collapse of our notions of a fixed cosmic order. It demonstrates that we can control these notions rather than allowing societal standards to dictate our destiny by tapping into our dreams and untamed desires. As a result, our generation now emphasizes future desires, creating the destiny we long for in a dreamlike state— persisting through time and space.

ACT I The known world is attractive to her. It is safety and comfort, a home and a beacon of childhood. It is there that she grew up and learned about herself. She learned about her family, and the values ingrained into her daily life. Home is what shaped her into the person she has always known. Home is more than the house she was raised in; it is the people who have surrounded her since birth. It’s the school she moved through and the peers who categorized her and whom she in turn categorized. The categories are neat and logical. They make sense to her. It all makes sense to her. Dependency, while at times suffocating, is easy. There is stability, safety, friendships, religion, and morality. There is clarity and understanding. She has always wondered what is outside of her category. The books she reads, the movies she watches, they offer her a moment of escape from the known world. For a while, that is all she needs. Fear prevents her from wandering outside of her safety net. The uknown is unstable, it would teeter below her like a seesaw and there would be nothing to catch her if she fell. The ground might be inches away, or it could be miles. Some of the structures chafe at her like an itchy wool sweater. They make her sweaty and a little uncomfortable, but at least it’s clothing. At least it’s familiar. No one is disappointed in her. No one has ever been disappointed in her. She is what they want her to be and if she stops being that, she knows she is replaceable. There are certain words that cling to her. She uses them as an identity, wraps them around her until she can convince herself that she knows who she is. Religious and kind and intelligent and hard‑working and shy and reserved. She is all of these things. She is the student teachers like because she is quiet and does the work. She is the daughter parents love because they can trust her. She is the friend people depend on because she will always be there. Sometimes she wants to be none of these things. Sometimes she wants to tear away the portrait of the girl who is smart and shy and dependable. But that would be like losing a home. For most of her life, she lives in this box. Until one day she has to move away.

She sits alone on the kitchen floor. It’s late; she doesn’t know what time. Light from the window seeps in, shedding a yellow cast on the wooden floors. She learns that there is something worse than loneliness.

Regret is a different kind of monster. It doesn’t loom and frighten the way loneliness does. It doesn’t creep or crawl like fear. Instead, it settles into your brain. One moment you are untethered, the next it is a snake coiled tightly around you. Regret

persistent.

Once upon a time, there was a path laid out for her. It was perfect and straight and clear. That path would lead her home. Now, memories of that path haunt her. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t stop thinking about what everyone

h t t r c e a

else wanted from her. They would be disappointed if they knew how far she had strayed. She

disappointed.

She made a mistake, and it is hard to recover from mistakes. She sees only two options. She can turn her back on that path and try desperately to return to what she knew. This option is terrifying. This option feels like a lie. Instead, she chooses to give into that mistake. It’s easier to push forward than let the memories and the regret fester like a wound. She prefers to create new mistakes and new regrets so the first one doesn’t hurt as much. Both are lies. Neither erases the memories.The wounds still fester.

For a long time, she is lost. Hatred breeds in the wound. It clouds her eyes until she can’t see any path at all, just empty, claustrophobic space. Wounds take a long time to heal. Some days it feels like she will never get back to herself, that she is a trinket irrevocably lost. One day, she looks down and realizes the gaping hole is shrinking. Every day it gets smaller and smaller. She has been so clouded by the fog that she didn’t realize she was still moving along. There are people who are still by her side, even though she no longer fits into the category she once fell in. There are people who love her even with her wound. When she finally looks around, she realizes that she has moved onto a new path. It isn’t the one she would have built for herself all those years ago, but it still leads to a home. She balances on the seesaw, and, although there are times when it drifts too far in one direction and jagged memories threaten her with sharp points and painful edges, she has learned that it will right itself in time. She no longer fears the persistence of memory.

Culture is fiction in the way that life is fiction. 150 apes could not sit together casually in a stadium, but 150 adults can easily convene in one place and enjoy the interaction. Humanity is able to reach this level of coexistence because humans have subconsciously agreed to buy into a false sense of reality that strays away from the natural order of things. Our ability to create and believe in fiction is the reason we are able to construct monuments, send men to the moon and worship in ornate buildings on a specific day of the week. What we see is all constructed by the human mind, yet it is our reality, our real life. Culture is created in the same way: we create customs and idolize inanimate objects as being sacred or profane because we are searching for a level of meaning that is not handed to us by mere existence. We are forced to create. Culture in Athens, Georgia is often defined by the school: Kirby Smart in a red polo, an inbred bulldog that is paraded onto a football field every so often, the gentle clanging of two Tito’s handles in a freshman’s backpack. There is so much more to Athens than how the culture is defined on the surface. Oftentimes, the truth about an area is found in the hidden countercultures that require a level of anonymity to be unique. An increasingly popular counterculture in the area is skate culture. Specifically, the world that skate brand Pulp Swim has created

GOOD VIBES, BAD OMENS

Founded by a rag-tag group of friends with a shared passion for skating and music, the Pulp Swim crew has amassed a growing following in recent years. The crew acts as a landing place for displaced skaters who are new to Athens, offering an alternative way of living for college students who are tired of the same bars and frat houses. With live music events every weekend at the iconic Pulp Swim house, college students have been able to experience a new vibration that has begun to settle over Athens. The crew has sparked something of a free love movement, creating a place for people to show up as themselves without fear of judgment. The social pecking order that is perpetuated by society does not exist in the world of Pulp Swim; there are only people, vibes and nothing more.

According to the U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of universities, The University of Georgia is revered as the 15th best public university in the nation. This success has naturally led to a culture that can seem dissociative at times as everyone is constantly climbing the ladder of success to create a name for themselves. In pursuit of creating an identity, it is easy to forget that the core of living a life is to simply exist. Pulp Swim takes these anxieties, puts them in an industrial grade shredder, lights the shredder on fire, and then does a kickflip directly over said shredder. All of this is to say that this counterculture works in opposition to the narratives that are pushed on today’s college students. There is no such thing as being a failure in the world of Pulp Swim because being alive is a big win in itself.

The crew has expanded significantly over the years, creating short films and a clothing line, forming multiple bands and even creating new skate parks. Above all monetary or social success, the biggest victory for the crew is the family that they have created. The feeling of pure love and sense of individuality that the crew radiates is what has attracted so many into the reality they have constructed and keeps people coming back for more. Fearless individuality is a key component at Strike Magazine. Without it, the magazine would blend in with the home and gardening periodicals at the checkout line in a grocery store. Instead, Strike is set apart from other publications because there is originality and freedom between its pages. Much like Pulp Swim, Strike has created a subculture that is fueled by unapologetic passion and creativity, unobstructed by the need to be widely liked. Although a fashion magazine and a skate crew may appear to be polar opposites on paper, Pulp Swim and Strike bridge the gap through a shared love for life’s peculiarities. By reaching outside of the box in full swing, mundanity falls to its knees as the rarities and irregularities in both the fashion and skating world are given the chance to see the light of day. This level of specificity and personal expression is what attracts people; the more specific you become, the more relatable the content will be. People buy wholesale because it’s cheap and easy but spend thousands of dollars on a one-of-a-kind product because it makes them feel something. The Sam’s Clubs of the world will always rake in loose dollar bills, but the tiny antique store on the corner is rich in stories and history and soulfulness. The same goes for Strike and Pulp Swim: there is nothing wholesale about either of these groups, but there is something especially unique and striking about them that evokes true emotion in those who recognize the value.

SWIM W II M M SS W SWIM

“I think there’s something really special about the culture that Pulp Swim has fostered. The media, the art, the music, the people— everything is really real and raw and as someone who typically has a hard time knowing their place in a room, there’s so much freedom in feeling like I can embrace the scene they have created. I get to be a part of this environment where I feel accepted and experience the best and most expressive parts of Athens,” said party attendee and UGA student Holly Decker.

PULP PU UL LP P P PULP

Whether people show up to the Pulp Swim events because they want to unwind with a fresh Marlboro Red and a few jarring minutes in the mosh pit or are searching for friendship and good conversation in the sea of smoke and smiling faces, there is a place and purpose for everyone who steps foot into the house. There is a magical, unifying energy about these parties that goes beyond a typical weekend’s cheap thrills. There is something that feels very meaningful about what this crew puts out. Witnessing the creation of a new culture and stepping into a world of unknowns that has never been seen before is an experience that makes life worth living. Their lifestyle is a clear representation of what building an identity truly looks like: doing what makes you happy while doing no harm, and allowing others to experience what makes you happy.

Writing: Sophie McLeod Copy Editing: Jordan Ross, Ridha Islam, Claudia Butler Layout: Nastasia Rozenberg

Paramnesia: a condition or phenomenon involving distorted memory or confusions of fact and fantasy, such as confabulation or déjà vu.

Content Director: Blake Campbell Content Assistants: Jackie Nemanich, Eli Huszagh, Angela Canales Styling: Issy Regas, Kyra Solovei Beauty: Elizabeth Kish, Gabby Abreau Photography: Isis Mayfield Videography: Audrie Uphues Writing: Eloise McNair Layout: Sydney Burton, Maddie Dalsimer, Nastasia Rozenberg Models: Adolfo Martinez, Lindsey Tate, Evn Palmer

We are confined in this labyrinth, in this life, this reality, because it’s the only one we have ever experienced. It’s what we are taught. This reality isn’t bad, and there is certainly nothing wrong with the typical route through the labyrinth and through life. But, for those who break out of the labyrinth, who deviate from the path, how do they find their alternate reality? How do they find what more is out there? According to Dictionary.com, Paramnesia is defined as “a condition or phenomenon involving distorted memory or confusions of fact and fantasy.” When we are born, we are thrust from our nine-month long safe space into a bright and complicated metaphorical labyrinth. We are given no instructions. We have no idea what to expect.

There is an evident connection between artists, icons, culture-makers and distorted realities. The people who forge their own path, a unique path. Whether they are born with a distorted sense of reality or create it themselves using mindNavigating life is much like navigating a labyrinth or a altering substances, this disassociation from maze; you begin your journey knowing next to nothing. the reality that the rest of us experience Sometimes you get lost, you feel confident then reach a allows them to break out of the labyrinth. dead end, you use trial and error to figure out your next move, sometimes things work out for you. Most of the Albert Einstein was known to experiment with time they don’t, and you just wish someone could just hallucinogens. Iconic artists Jim Morrison and map this out so you would know what the f*ck to do. Jimi Hendrix both created some of their most influential work while experimenting with Despite the fact that I’m beating this labyrinth metaphor various mind-altering drugs. The Beatles, to death, let me say this: If life is a labyrinth, the arguably the most famous musicians in typical person is right there, following someone history, made their stance on psychedelics directly in front of them in a single-file line. known with their song “Lucy in the Sky You know the drill: go to school, don’t do drugs, with Diamonds (LSD).” Harry Styles wrote the choose a practical career, find someone you can stand majority of his most recent best-selling album, and marry them so you can procreate, retire then Fine Line, while tripping on magic mushrooms. die, etc. Most of us take the most direct route According to Business Insider, Steve Jobs called through life, the one that everyone takes, his LSD trip “a profound experience, one of because that is the only thing we know. the most important things of my life.” This begs the question, would the iPhone exist if Bill Krutzman, drummer for the Steve Jobs hadn’t taken LSD and sent himself iconic Grateful Dead band, once said this: into another reality to find this idea? “I always had this question, like there’s gotta be more, there’s gotta be more. Then when I took acid, I went ‘oh, I was right, there is more, there’s a lot more.” That

made

think:

what

else

there?

Award-winning director Donick Cary wrote and directed a documentary called Have a Good Trip: Adventures in Psychedelics. This documentary explores the science, history, and social and cultural relevance of psychedelics. It features an interesting cast of characters, all who have one thing in common: these people are notable or famous in their respective fields. The film features Carrie Fisher (AKA Princess Leia), Sting, Deepak Chopra, Ben Stiller, and A$AP Rocky, to name a few. All of these people are icons, artists, who have freed themselves from the labyrinth. And they all credit their creativity and ideas to their experiences while on psychedelics.

When many of these people talk about their adventures in psychedelics, they say that the whole world opened up. They say it gave them new ideas, inspired their creativity, and changed the way they thought in everyday life. Timothy Leary, a renowned American psychologist and research associate at Harvard once said that he “learned more from 4 hours on acid than in the past 20 years of psychology.” While I am certainly not encouraging drug use or condoning drug abuse in any way, this connection between our idols and the ideas and knowledge they’ve gained from psychedelics is undeniable.

In January, USA Today published an article titled “The next big trend in mental health treatments? Psychedelic therapy.” This is just one of many articles written by mainstream media companies that talk about how microdoses of psychedelics have shown to be helpful in treating people with mental illness. This takes the idea of benefits from psychedelics to a whole other level. In a way, microdosing someone to help them treat their mental health is freeing them from being stuck in the labyrinth in their mind. It is freeing them from a reality that makes it difficult for them to live an enjoyable life… will the miracles ever cease? I am not saying that psychedelics and paramnesia is the only way to free yourself from the societal cage we are put into, but it may be the fastest way. If that’s not what you are into, that is more than okay. But, take away some of the things people learn from these experiences. Relax your mind, shift your perspective, and know that there is so much more out there than you think.

Feminine energy is one of the most renowned and powerful forces. Both men and women can tune into this sacred force to pursue creativity, compassion, and sexuality. Feminine energy is not something that stops or starts; it is something that exists within us and all things at any moment. For women, embracing this sacred energy and standing in its power allows us to realize our own. The divine femine energy is about understanding the full range of power within the individual in order to cultivate your own feminine goddess. Kundalini is a form of the divine feminine energy that is located at the base of your spine. According to the mental health author, Arlin Cuncic, it is believed to be the center of feminine energy and provides a location for people to focus on during meditation. Kundalini is a force of power that is thought to be associated with the powerful feminine energy or the formless manifestation of your inner goddess. You can access your Kundalini through centered meditation or sex. Through these actions you are seeking to awaken, release and harness this vitality. The practice of Kundalini is meant to move this authoritative energy throughout the body.The action of waking the Kundalini evokes a profound vivacity from within yourself and develops a new sense of body awareness and autonomy. Think of it as an introduction to your feminine goddess. Get to know her and her power.

Meditation blog MBGmindfulness describes the physical reactions that accompany the awakening of your Kundalini energy. They describe it as an unbearable strong and powerful energy that moves throughout the body. It is often accompanied by shaking, jerking, or spasms. It almost mimics the powerful feeling of the female orgasm. There are seven chakras in the human body stemming from the head all the way to the base of your spine. The Sacral chakra is located in your lower abdomen, between your navel and genitalia. It is very close to where the Kundalini energy is believed to be located. Meditation and other practices focused on the Sacral chakra enhances creative expression, increases intuition, and improves sexual intimacy. The Sacral chakra is believed to be the chakra of human sexuality and power. When this chakra is opened it allows you to understand the process of creating or manifesting our human desires. It awakens the sensual self goddess.

Understanding, harnessing, and balancing this bleed into more positive relations with the and your sexual desires. The use of sex itself practice for your Sacral chakra. To not reject human desire of sexuality, empowers the Sacral

chakra will self, others, is a healing your innate chakra.

Writing: Chanel Gaynor Copy Editing: Gianna Rodriguez, Sophie McLeod, Claudia Butler Layout: Nastasia Rozenberg , Sydney Burton

The line between sex and spirituality is beginning to blur. The concept of sex has begun to transform into an empowering moment of devotion to the body. Instead of viewing this act as being purely physical, it is instead a means of ingress into your feminine energy. The practice of sexuality is an action that helps you understand your divine goddess. There is a new form of sex that is emerging in popularity called tantric sex. Tantric sex is a slow, meditative form of sex where the end goal is not orgasm, but instead to move sexual energy throughout the body. It is a healing, transformative, and enlightening experience. Tantric sex takes on a more feminist stance by destroying the misogynistic preconceived notions that are often attached to sex. Tantric sex becomes a journey of exploration and appreciation of the strength, vigor, and individuality of human bodies. This style of sex is centered on the distinct excellence of the feminine energy. By understanding your body and the energy within your body, you are able to have better sex with your partner. Sex should be informative and satisfying for both parties. Tantric sex gives people the ability to learn about what triggers the meditative movement of energy throughout the body and control it. The lens of spirituality tells us that sex is a resource when attempting to understand and mobilize your inner divine feminine energy.

The female orgasm is one of the most humbling and mindblowing experiences one can feel. It is a moment of pure out-of-body ecstasy followed by a grounding emotion of appreciation for the human body. It is a mixture of both unadulterated pleasure and unbearable pain, similar to the feelings of unleashing the Kundalini energy. The female orgasm is a physical manifestation of the movement of sexual energy throughout the body. It is an ethereal and transcendent moment in which reality blurs itself. You become your goddess during its peak. The key to a long lasting and more intense orgasm is to know your body and its divine feminine energies. Take the time to explore tantric sex with yourself and learn how to control and invoke your unique inner goddess.

HEAD OVER HEELS It is only human nature to focus on love & interpersonal relationships, while ignoring big picture issues in our society. This is the discussion of the nature of humanity in terms of the value we place on relationships, how those relationships determine our next steps in life, and how they guide us (hopefully) down the right path of the labyrinth.

Content Director: Madison Taylor Content Assistants: Abigail Mapel, Trinity Gates, Elaine Garvey Styling: Harper Brand, Sophie Baker Beauty: Ashlyn Daughenbaugh, Carly Judenberg Photography: Ashley Moore Videography: Alex Hoefer Writing: Haley Wolf Layout: Ellery Payne, Jess Song, Sarah Orji, Nastasia Rozenberg Models: Mason McClintock, Krista Shirley, Ashely Burgess CJ Brewer, Victoria Scheider, Ayobami Olubadewo

Infatuation— an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone or something. That’s how all crushes start, right? Some small aspect of a person that draws you in and holds you captive. Maybe it’s their looks or maybe it’s something less superficial, but regardless you find every part of their being taking over your thoughts. Humans have developed crushes on each other since the beginning of time. Everyone has them from the day we begin interacting with others. It’s almost become a societal right of passage. Are there any boys you have a crush on? Do you like her? Are they your partner? The emphasis that society places on interpersonal relationships is astounding. Perhaps it’s human nature or maybe it’s a learned skill, but regardless we all yearn for a bond with others; something bigger than ourselves, bigger than a crush— a connection.

Dating— The start of something new is always so exciting. The butterflies in your stomach, the goosebumps on your arms—every aspect makes your whole body tingle. That person becomes your new everything for a period of time. You want to learn every part of them from their favorite tv show to the city they want to see the most in the world. Your brain has complete focus on them making it hard to concentrate on anything or anyone else. While society heavily relies on interpersonal relationships, longstanding friendships may be put on pause as you explore a newfound spark. With the possibility of love on the horizon, how could anything else possibly matter? Flirting, talking, pushing, pulling - all in hopes of creating a foundation to grow old together. This feeling won’t last forever, but for now, it’s all you can possibly think about. Those first 3–5 months bring out a side of yourself that you didn’t know existed and to people on the outside it might be exhausting to hear about, but you don’t care. This is what everyone has been telling you to find since the day you were born, right? An all-encompassing, heart-pounding kind of infatuation… right? Complacency— The known is easy. Being comfortable is easy. There aren’t any jarring ups and downs or shocking turns of events. It’s just easy. Maybe it’s not very exciting, but at least you don’t have to think about it anymore. Sometimes it feels like you’re just going through the motions, but don’t humans love routine? Not all relationships can be constant passion all of the time, and not all of them should be. What builds a lifelong lasting relationship? The raging desire to rip each other’s clothes off, or the ease of knowing what restaurant your partner wants to go to after a long week? Balance can return now that your partner isn’t taking over your every waking thought. Maybe this is how it’s always supposed to be. Easy. Or is it just settling?

Break Ups— Heartbreak. People never see it coming until it’s already there. One day, you have someone to lean on for everything, and the next they are gone. What does navigating a world that puts so much pressure on being in a relationship look like? Singleness suddenly makes you less shiny, less valuable by societal standards. You need to constantly be looking for a partner, someone to share your life with - now what? It feels as if you have to relearn everything from before. How did you spend your weekends? Who did you confide in? What did you like to do after a long workday? For the past year or so, every decision was influenced by someone else, and, now, you’re expected to make them all on your own. The overwhelming need to glow up or show your now ex that you’re fine without them fuels every move. I am fine. I don’t need them. I like being single. Regardless of if these statements are true or not, society views them as false. You are not fine. You do need them. Being single is a death sentence. Fighting— Good things can’t last forever. It starts out as nothing major, a few tiffs here and there until it expands into every aspect of your lives. Fighting doesn’t have to mean the end, but it’s never a good sign. The fear of the unknown may keep you together longer than you’d like. Dating again, being single again, and potential loneliness all contribute to the want of making things work. Navigating the world without a life partner is scary and some people would rather be miserable than do it. Plus, fighting doesn’t always lead to a conclusion. You could make this work. It’s just a rough patch. The focus suddenly shifts from the joy of being with that person to trying to find reasons to make them stay. The lack of concentration on things outside of your relationship returns. How can I make this work?

ti o n

ion ref ct l e c

re fl

ion refl t e ec

r e fl e c

t i o

r e f l e c t

lecti f e r

eflectio r n on

i o n r e f l e c t i o n

refle ct

f l e r n

ct i o n e l r ef

ction e l ef

nr e f l e c t

fle c t i o

io n r

The pressure placed on people to be constantly looking for their “better half ” can sometimes do more harm than good. People find themselves focusing so heavily on finding that one person to spend their life with that they miss enjoying time alone, being with friends, and even the hidden gems surrounding them. The innate desire to be in a relationship with someone can turn your world upside down and cause you to lose sight of what is really important. There are so many beautiful things in life that don’t come from a shared experience with another human, and sometimes we forget that. Plant your feet on the ground and remember that while connections are wonderful, they aren’t everything.

I’m going out tonight I’ve waited all week long I’m wearing my new dress that I spent all my money on Believing that you’ll see me in it believing I’ll be with you from dusk until dawn. Surrounded by my dearest friends, I grab my purse and keys but my mind is racing, fixated on other things. We dance and laugh, same as we always do but my phone remains in my back pocket, constantly waiting for you.

So I sit in this hurt it’s better than facing my biggest fear. I begin to think maybe if I was prettier maybe it wouldn’t be this tough. Maybe if I was more like the other girls you would never recoil away from my love. You tell me “we’re only young once, this is how it should be.” But I can’t help to think it’s because I’m available, not because you care for me. It’s not that I’m not enough, or so you say and for the sake of my own mind, I believe you anyway.

So we keep this casual I thought, “I could do that, maybe” but every day I clench at the thought of you also being someone else’s baby.

The night ticks on my phone empty as my heart am I the only one who cares that we might spend the night apart? I know you’re out tonight feeling alive, laughing somewhere. How foolish am I to actually think that your feelings for me were ever there? My heart sinks to the depths of my body my chest so tight I can’t breathe, I run to the bathroom in a sweat seeking to feel a bit of release. I fall to the floor of the stall tears smothering my eyes I tear off my dress because in a short second I realize you won’t be doing it for me tonight. But I can never tell you how I feel if I did, you’d surely disappear.

I tell myself a real love wouldn’t be like this they would never steer me wrong yet I still can’t resist imagining that one day you tell me you’ve wanted me all along. And in moments like these, all I feel is shame because of how I’m bound to you and this pain. The other night you were lying next to me stroking my hair, holding me close it’s almost as if you don’t recall but those were the moments I remember most.

“Am I just too easy? solely a body to dispose of ? how could you not want me?” I’ve given you all that I have. I dream of you all day my night relies on your call but turns out I’m just another person you don’t think about at all.

RUIN MY NIGHT

I wonder if you still have those pictures we took I keep them in my drawer because in that snapshot I was feeling something I hadn’t felt before. I thought, “could this be the real thing?” what I’ve waited for all my life but I suppose to you it felt like any other night.

Writing: Ellie Dover Copy Editing: Jordan Ross, Sophie McLeod, Claudia Butler Layout: Sarah Orji, Sydney Burton

But you still keep in touch because you know I’ll always stay go ahead, ruin my night I’ll still love you either way. So don’t you worry though I wish we were more, I’ll be here on the bathroom floor waiting for you, forevermore.

I L U POP lē/

VOs pXäpyəlī, väks päpyə

. n o i n i p li. ro u a l p u o /väk p p o x vo ep h e t h t , e o l t p n r pe o ate nou c e h o t t f t o n a e ce The voi k was never m d. or ke Their w at’s why it wor th ... And

nover r u t “ The s just i n o i h of fas d so n a k c i so qu and , y a w a throw is a t a h t I think of the rt big pa ere Th . m proble gevity.” n is no lo

— al ex

de r

mc qu

ee n

Content Director: Tara Anastasoff Content Assistants: Lindsay Bollinger, Kristen Haupt, Claire Wadzinski Styling: Harper Brand, Fatmata Bah Beauty: Natalie Bacome, Alexandra Catalano Photography: Jaz Fox Videography: Stephanie Lopez Writing: Jordan Ross Layout: Ellery Payne, Nastasia Rozenberg Models: Christine Park, Kaitlyn McCann, Wesley Martinez

WE DIE TWICE WE DIE TWICE WE DIE TWICE How does one person— one idea— become the voice of the people? The constant chase of approval is a one step forward, two steps back motion. Creating an essence worthy of being remembered by the majority is a highly philosophical, intertwined yin and yang process. If we spend our lives according to a recipe of unapologetic declaration and meaningful conversation, this legacy that speaks for others will create itself. What comes after our time on Earth is speculated in a million different ways. Everyone thinks their belief of the afterlife is the only belief that is true. When coping with the idea of something so permanent, maybe it is better to create the reality we look forward to rather than contemplating the unknown. What once,

we but

died

not twice?

There’s a certain melancholy to this that leads us to believe once is more than enough, but, when you flip it to this idea of keeping

our alive once y y ac g le r u o y can assed — it energ y has p l. quite beautifu g in h et m so be our — after y Imagine this is our legacy y , h at re b last ry through sto kept alive words spoken and through ted. you impac o h w y b r is at the cente n io ss re p ex fSel ed this continu of creating es you wear, th o cl e Th y. legac s you eat, the word the food you gy ing your ener say— ever yth u. o pacted by y im is es ch u to ith consumed w If your life is w pression, ho ex f o ar fe the ou? ild the true y could you bu to secret a ’s e er Th our choose we h ow ress. its to exp a tr te ri o v fa y e are naturall w se u ca e b It’s als the individu attracted to wish things we doing the do. courage to e th ad h e w ng e not creati Designers ar e ajority — th m e th r fo rk wo ng they are creati vox populi — e can handle th o h w se o th for eir incorporate th n ca o h w t, ea h yle. into their st uniqueness ing legacy as hav If we view a ly half is certain e n o , es lv a h two expression. unapologetic hat is be in w Whether th , it what we do r o r ea w e w lf. our truest se is done by

“From my perspective, I’m trying to stand for a generation. You know, each generation has designers who go along with it.” — virgil abloh

“In the past, people were born royal. Nowadays, royalty comes from what you do.” ‑Gianni Versace

WHO SPEAKS The other half of building a legacy is not up to us, but rather who we choose to pour our energy into. When you get up and leave a table of friends- are you confident that you have not become a subject of conversation? It is an intrusive, anxiety-ridden thought to wonder constantly how others feel about you. While we are told to be unapologetically ourselves, and to not care what anyone may think of us, this is easier said than done. The gut wrenching realization that someone is not who you thought they were can be devastating. So when we are living our life, and securing that aforementioned second life— or our legacy— the people we surround ourselves with are the ones that keep telling our story. Therefore, choosing those people must be done carefully. Putting our time, energy, and love into the people who reciprocate- that’s how we find our people. Now— what if we’re not famous? Let’s be real, most of us aren’t. So do we still get a legacy? Are memories and legacies synonymous— or is a legacy greater? Anyone can take these halves— and create their whole, intentional being. A life well lived doesn’t need approval from others, or its star on the walk. What fulfills and brings you the purest joy— might not work for the vox populi. If it did, there would be no new stories to share— and that’s the beauty in both life and legacy.

FOR Y O

? U

VOX POPULI /väks päpy lī, väks päpy lē/ noun The voice of the people, the popular opinion. Their work was never meant to cater to the vox populi.

of the medic presence co e th e d”. rg girl in Hollywoo tors to amass la an ac si A an s ic ou er m am A “f Asian ns row this role with gu gth mirror in but also put a nar n on t le g ou n llcl ki fu ta of a y ts B as n ts ou Media ac e for his od, am erself in a what was possibl g, she landed h portraying the go d in y, n az et ou bl ci ar so x an bo ic al ful ti er Am tell a raw, truth n has done mar often, without ha to d C n an . , io rs ly it so os ug es p e ec th the bad, culture g pred e’s been out her own . The stereotypin t ever y movie h h ab os ut y m tr e al or st th , in to ts g ar in ly mean her life in icans fu is wild n of Asian Amer how it relates to While his kungio . d at of an in rt im pa cr a e is e p d ty d eo an the A24 film Th rough media for petuated the ster in er th a p ic ed it , er ug ve m lo si A ta es ca pr has been ans who low im e movie ly Asian Americ ell (2019). Th ite actors in “yel h w on w re e Fa th om Fr at s. th e de er deca wrenching stor y ist celebrities w Asian nerd in -l rt e A ea th h e to a m s, co 40 lls be te 19 e ld who aracter face” in th s, cou In fact, ever y ch girl (Awkwafina) of the early 2000 a s. al t in oe ig er ou h or ab ey on n ti is ac n D ever y dmother of Quenti s have her dying gran descent in all Asian American ts at si an vi th si s A ou vi of t ob en ci is Her it ofi gchun, China. ot only in scenes Tarantino’s films have been pr n n s ha C op pr in as ed been us me extent. eps them y’s history. martial arts to so ily’s culture ke tr m ed un fa ix co m r ou in in t her bu ng the grandmot lli te om fr ed like es into War II portrayed While Chan’s presence seem e is dying and div ld sh or at W th er aft a er by The a that Asian the time barbarians with e cultural divides itive change at th os p a an si as A the Japanese as e s struggle with lms such as Th from the previous fi an ay ic in er aw m ll, g A n ki ki to ea br mission and ifferent criminal, it exist in two d of a vicious war iver Kwai (1957) e R ey p e th ty th eo er on st ch ge d an ri B ies such as these e difficult to br ese as ruthless or or am St m tn s. it ie ld e V or ad e w m th so al portrayed . nt in e Apocalypse Now out of the narrow role he played hugely importa lik s ie e ar ov m in s ge sava about , but the cietal opinion merican media A y om at ite (1979). The so n it e to fruition in sp role in Grey’s A never accurate as m s is ca h’ s O lm an fi a ic er dr n m Sa A Asian d in ation. an American groupthink base rmful discrimin dbreaking as Asi ha n om fr ou of s gr em as st w s in ay e w ac al nt film nally given a pl . The independe actresses were fi of r ve nationalist ideals co e illing ny, A24, was w ht. Oh was on th pa m lig ot co sp e th d re and reve ID-19 the stor y s world, COV health magazines take a risk to tell ’s to en om w in le ro Even in today’ ce an pon against Asi g chops, but her s most box-offi n ea ea ti w er ac h a w er as h s r n fo io ed funct have ames ain limit uctions would h harmful n al field once ag it ic od w ed pr m s, e an th ic le er ab m e A ading omen wer it away. inese virus” spre les that Asian w ro e th Asian turned such as “the Ch st ci om ra fr e g in Th . go ia cial med . Although or rapidly across so gun to play be ement ve ha r to Asian doct d te oo as w m ly ol ts e biggest stat H ar Th by al ti ed ar m ht lig s lenses us e ed sh mor media American e have been progress, this shift er e th lik in s r; em te se at e se sh to lack brity y does not stars on the cele taining to the ct that our societ er fa p e th on of off Asian American used tors in t aggrandizes years who have of Asian ac an Americans bu si A circuit in recent s. d ie an the it to speak out on lywood was s of their commun ol s es H cc rm su fo e at th pl r ei th iences Rich Crazy out their exper movie g in n in create films ab w (2018) that set . lobe Award n s G io an at si n A in de im ol cr is G e d th with ing fully used milestone as be Awkwafina tact a s es tr ac rs to ac erican American second iconic Asian Am the eotypes of Asian er st One of the most d le , n build ure, Jackie Cha in her favor to stars in pop -cult more the way for

so deeply in eals are rooted id e es Th that certain in American talism, in the idea pi ca er p modern stor y hy er all-Asian cast ould exist at a low sh an e ve pl ha eo p to of ry ps to is ou h gr and to fill merican lead. crease efficiency in to l ve and an Asian A , le ain of commands ch e the statement e ad th m in ie ov ot sl m y is Th ever the pie when icans would no ia is only a slice of ed m at that Asian Amer th problem. the shadows of to remedying this es m co longer exist in it ie itself received society. The mov any Asian the undertones ve been so m ha e er Th rave reviews, but en who have brok e an impact in ad rs m to ly ac u tr an lm ic fi e er Am of th out history. film’s popularity molds through al et ci so Hollywood. The standing nt is that Asian oi al p ci so er rg e la th e th d Here, booste to be erican actress y should not have m pl A m si s an an si ic A er m A of careers who has gone on so careful and calculated in their Constance Wu, it’s to the top. While career playing it l e u tf ak ui m fr to a r de ve or to ha h in rs have been othing to do wit le that many acto ib ed cr in it roles that have n American ese stereotypes, an th si e A m an co is er e ov Sh . to able her race or not like Awkwafina, begs the question as to whether o, h w y it br le ce y when pes thrown at her American media will see a da took the stereoty t over her advantage. will be sought ou t to n le ta em s e’ th n ed eo m us so and estion as to . It also begs the qu ce ra r ei th on edia representati d Awkwafina m an ot u n W e or lik er h es whet Actress now the way for Asian is as impactful as it once was ve pa to n gu be have t ere media on roles that don’ e in a world wh liv e w at th Americans to take antly , happening const sed on their race is ba x n io bo a pt m in su n em put th r co e. esn’t always mirro do d oo w ly d from ever y angl ol an H t bu ed it n U time as the society in perfect lution the day, the revo % increase in anti of 73 a d en en e se s th t ha A es of Stat st year. There is no piece pa . d e se th vi in le te es im be cr ot will n show Asian hate ene, or television sc ie ov m g, n ti ri such deep point w lve an issue with akes the larger so m n c ti ca is at at th st is tive Th become very s, but these crea er s at ha w d ky oo ur w m ly d ol an hearts that H ever yday people works can aid in changing the om fr d te ec n n ts disco hile changes e engaging in ac W os . th al er of n ge ds in in ld m and and the wor rrently. solve inaccurate of anti-Asian discrimination cu to p el h ia in med where the this of the people are inority groups, m ds in of m e s al Th ay tr h the por art and end, wit ean that society st m ill ly w ri sa on es ti ec lu n vo does not ed re towards a new and improv g as a catalyst of n ti e ac us ca ia be ed l m ea h will oric ture. Anti-Asian rhet more inclusive fu representation. e gl n si a h icated wit cannot be erad time. e cover but with in az ag m or lm fi

Asian Americans Breaking Film Stereotypes

Writing: Sophie McLeod Copy Editing: Claudia Butler Content and Layout: Madhu Ravi

ID: A perspective on first-generation Americans being caught between two worlds and how they define their unique identity. This concept explores the tension between the cultures they were born into and their American identity. While attempting to understand their individuality, first-generation Americans often face racism, intolerance, and misconceptions about themselves and where they belong. This shoot embodies this notion by featuring the fusions of cultures, with each model portraying their unique identity as a strength, not a weakness. They no longer have to choose between one identity or the other but are somewhere in the middle— caught between two worlds.

Content Director: Madison Taylor Content Assistants: Kiana Shamsbafi, Madison Arnold Styling: Riley Chastain, Kayli McDaniel Beauty: Reagan Cox, Gabby Abreau Photography: Jocelyn Peña Videography: Chloe Darveau Writing: Shelby Wingate Layout: Sydney Burton, Jess Song, Sarah Orji, Nastasia Rozenberg Models: Nick Tsavaris, Kam Johnson, Alyssa Yarritu, Jamie Chong, Rashmi Kondur, Emma Wong, Tejsh Desai, Chiamaka Uwagerikpe

“Indian culture is so admirable when it is understood for its complexity and beauty.”

“From a lifestyle perspective, the culture is encompassed with a passion for food, and the sense of companionship that results from it.”

“I was delighted to be seen for my unique differences by my fellow white peers and teachers, but even more content with who I was when I realized the contributions and “The most influences my Black culture had challenging on building this nation.” thing about being Black in America is, with little surprise, being Black.”

“I remember my mom would always tell me, ‘Calladita te ves más bonita,’ which translates to, ‘you “…I know look more beautiful that nothing will when you’re change if I don’t q u i e t .’ ” speak up for myself.”

“I find it striking at times when I notice the difference between how I’m treated versus a person of color even if we both, at our core, share an identity that is halfAmerican and the other half from another country.”

“At home and in school, I was Asian; when visiting my grandparents in Chinatown, I was white. I wasn’t white enough for my hometown, and I wasn’t Chinese enough for Chinatown.”

“My identity is not arguable.” “it’s interesting because people in America love trying to quantify identity. Here, things, are so tied to race, so people assume that every Blackpersonhasthesameexperience.” “But being a Black American is not a monolith.” “I have learned the importance of collectivism from my Nigerian heritage while also understanding the American emphasis on personal self-care. I honestly think that is a superpower.” “As a first gen American, I always felt the pressure to be successful, not because my parents were ever hard on me, but out of fear of letting them down.” “I understood the sacrifices [my parents] made and hardships they faced as immigrants to provide me and my siblings t h e opportunities that they did not have growing up.” “A s I grew older, however, I learned to embrace my differences, stand up to stereotypes, and not be ashamed of the very culture that shaped my values and got me to where I am today.” “There are definitely times where I feel conflicted since my Indian identity comes from a more conser vative and traditional viewpoint while my American identity allows me to be carefree and spontaneous.” “…trying to please everyone else’s expectations does not help with finding yourself and what you want, so I have learned to embrace both sides of my identity over the years without losing either.”

In the infamous Loving v. Virginia case, it was ruled that states cannot have laws banning marriage between individuals of different races. Now, 50 years later, one in five new marriages involve couples of different racial groups, and the number of people identifying as more than one race is at an all-time high. Somehow, that is still not enough for people to agree that you can marry whomever you want. Growing up in a suburban town that significantly lacked diversity, I never expected that the topic of dating someone of another race would be as prevalent in my life as it is today. Once I went to college, I saw more couples from different backgrounds than I grew up seeing. I was taught this was wrong. Deep down, I knew it wasn’t. Going to college far from home where I knew no one left me feeling empty, and I had no one close in my life. I grew up dreaming of going to college, fantasizing that it would be like the movies. This was not the case for me, as I spent more days alone in my room crying than I’d ever want to admit. I wasn’t popular in high school, and while all my friends would go to school dances, I never had a date. After several years of this, finally, a boy came to my home to do the typical “promposal.” When I was told I had to say no, that crushed me. I was given countless excuses to cover up the real reason why I couldn’t go with him. Not because I should be doing other things or because I was too young to date. It was because my parents didn’t want me to be one of the only kids at the dance with someone who didn’t look the same as me. They didn’t care about how ecstatic I was that I could finally go; they only cared about the judgment that may have followed. But guess what? I didn’t care. I spent hours sobbing to my parents begging them to let me go and eventually they relented.

HIDDEN HEART

Writing: Anonymous Copy Editing: Ridha Islam, Shelby Wingate, Claudia Butler Layout: Sydney Burton

Then, I met my best friend. I didn’t feel alone anymore because he made me feel beautiful, confident, and loved. I had people I hung out with, but no one as close as my boyfriend and I were. One night in his room, he was telling a story of a girlfriend in high school whose parents didn’t approve of her dating him because of his race. I started to cry because I knew this conversation between us had to happen. As several years had passed, I brought it up to my parents again, hoping when I explained how happy I was that would be enough, but it wasn’t. I was threatened and told all the horrific names of people who “do that” are called. What I thought would be a cordial conversation ended in swollen eyes, throwing up, and a strained relationship. Growing up, I put immense pressure on myself to make my parents proud, and this was the first time I let them down. However, I knew what I was doing wasn’t wrong, and I did not want to put an end to the happiest time of my life. Then began my time of leading a double life… This period caused extreme guilt and stress on my relationship with my family. I went from talking daily to radio silence. Once speaking again, I knew I had to leave the most important piece of my life out of the conversation. I wanted to share all the sweet things he would do for me, but I knew it was best to omit that information. I would fill in the blank of who I was with by rotating names of different friends, turning my location off at times and other tricks to divert attention from it. No parent should ever make their child feel like a disappointment for dating. I can handle walking into a restaurant and clarifying that I’m with the man beside me. I can handle the stares from judgmental eyes in public. What I can’t handle is parents threatening and judging their child for being with someone they love. The experience of having your first boyfriend you love is meant to be special, and the saddest part is that it was tainted by parents whose minds are crippled and unwilling to change.

LOVE.COM

A MODERN-DAY ROMANCE WRITING: CHANEL GAYNOR ILLUSTRATION: RILEY KEUROGLIAN LAYOUT: SYDNEY BURTON

THE END.

KYLE CAVAN COLLEGIATE & PERSONALIZED JEWELRY

100+ university & greek collections

UGA Sunbur

st Ne

cklace

UGA Arch Necklace

Voted “Top Grad Gift for Her” by New York Magazine

TRAPEZE POLE SLINGS FABRICS AERIAL YOGA HANDSTANDS LYRA

CANOPY STUDIO CLASSES AND LESSONS FOR ALL

Photo by Shannah Montgomery

AGES AND ABILITIES

160-6 Tracy Street, Athens, GA info@canopystudio.org @canopystudio

TO HANNAH KEALY,

Thank you for entrusting the Strike Magazine Athens staff to carry out your vision of this student-led publication at the University of Georgia. You have truly created an experience for students like myself to evolve into businessminded creatives and leaders. To Emma Oleck and the Strike Collective: thank you for being a sounding board and understanding all of the ebbs and flows of this role. Strike Magazine has shifted many of our members’ lives for the better, allowing the misunderstood to be heard and to have a place where we finally belong. We owe you all of our love! XX, Nahdia Johnson

S T RI KE OUT THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS, Canopy Athens Kyle Cavan Melissa Lovy