The Quill's Valentine's Special 2023

The The

Q Q U I L L U I L L

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 3 2022-2023

C O N T E N T S

AMBER QUICK High school Principal

Dear ICS Students,

What a great start to the 2022-23 school year it has been! I have been so impressed with the way you have transitioned back into full-on activities and student life at school along with your many extra curriculars Nothing makes me happier than to see us return to a sense of ‘normalcy’- I am praying that it will last!

With some relaxed restrictions and a return to intentional community comes a lot of busy! I would encourage you to find an area to get involved in while also maintaining a good sense of balance and space for yourself Consider being active in things that bring you joy rather than only filling your plate out of duty or a sense of expectation

Freshmen and new students- welcome to High School! I hope the transition has been smooth for you and that you are finding a rhythm to everything that is new Please don’t hesitate to reach out to someone if you have questions!

Seniors- welcome to all of the “lasts”- a year of them! Last first day of school, last sports season, last Eagles Camp, last SALT trip (Senior Trip), etc. While they may feel unending with the finish line so far away, it will go faster than you think it will. Take time to invest in friendships, make memories and enjoy your time here at ICS. We love you and will be cheering you on to Graduation!

It is a pleasure to serve as your principal this year. You bring me great joy and I love getting to know HS students! Please don’t hesitate to reach out, swing by for a chat or stop me in the hallway to talk. I hope your year is a great one!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Amber

THE TEAM

MARK COOPRIDER Advisor

Dear Readers,

I t ' s b e e n a m a z i n g b e i n g f u l l y b a c k o n c a m p u s t h i s y e a r a n d s e e i n g a l l t h e s t u d e n t s b a c k i n a c t i o n ! I ' m r e a l l y p r o u d o f y o u g u y s , h o w y o u ' v e b o u n c e d b a c k f r o m C O V I D , a n d h o w y o u ' v e c o n t i n u e d t o e m b r a c e a n d s h a p e t h e c u l t u r e o f o u r h i g h s c h o o l . A n d I ' m r e a l l y p r o u d t o b e a p a r t o f T h e Q u i l l a g a i n ! I h o p e t h a t y o u e n j o y r e a d i n g a n d s e e i n g t h e c r e a t i v i t y a n d i n s i g h t s o n d i s p l a y f r o m o u r w o n d e r f u l t e a m !

S i n c e r e l y , Mr.Mark

PROUD UA-ARAK

E d i t o r - i n - C h i e f

Dear Readers, W e l c o m e a l l t o t h e 1 0 t h V o l u m e o f T h e Q u i l l M a g a z i n e ! T h e r e ’ s a m i x o f e x c i t e m e n t a n d p r e s s u r e i n e q u a l p a r t s t o c o n t i n u e w h a t c a n n o w b e c a l l e d a d e c a d e - o l d t r a d i t i o n h e r e a t I C S . I ’ d l i k e t o t a k e t h i s o p p o r t u n i t y t o t h a n k t h e w r i t e r s , e d i t o r s , a n d l a y o u t d e s i g n e r s t h i s y e a r f o r t h e i r c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o s h a r i n g t h e i r b e s t i d e a s a n d d o c u m e n t i n g t h e g o i n g s - o n o f t h i s p l a c e w e c a l l o u r s e c o n d h o m e . I t i s o u r t e a m ’ s s i n c e r e s t h o p e t h a t y o u e n j o y o u r B a c k t o S c h o o l i s s u e , a n d p l e a s e l o o k f o r w a r d t o o u r f u t u r e p u b l i c a t i o n s t o c o m e !

Q u i l l f u l l y Y o u r s , Proud

FAH PRAYOTTAVEKIT

S e n i o r E d i t o r

Dear Quill Readers,

I s i n c e r e l y b e l i e v e t h a t t h e Q u i l l p r o v i d e s a m a z i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r I C S s t u d e n t s t o e x p r e s s t h e m s e l v e s c r e a t i v e l y i n w r i t i n g w h i l s t c h e r i s h i n g o u r s c h o o l ’ s c o r e v a l u e s . W e h o p e t h a t t h r o u g h t h e Q u i l l , t h i s s c h o o l y e a r w i l l b e o n e t h a t a l l o w s i t s t e a c h e r s a n d s t u d e n t s t o c o n n e c t a n d l e a r n a b o u t e a c h o t h e r f a r b e t t e r t h a n b e f o r e . F u r t h e r m o r e , w e h o p e t h a t t h r o u g h o u r w o r k s w e w i l l b e a b l e t o u p h o l d t h e s e n s e o f c o m m u n i t y t h a t s e t s I C S a p a r t .

W e t r u l y h o p e t h a t y o u ’ l l e n j o y o u r i s s u e s t h i s y e a r !

S i n c e r e l y , Fah

KELLY PHONGKUSONJIT

C o - A r t - D i r e c t o r

Dear Readers,

W e l c o m e t o t h e Q u i l l ! I w o u l d l i k e t o s t a r t o f f b y s a y i n g t h a n k y o u t o t h e l a y o u t d e s i g n e r s , w r i t e r s , e d i t o r s , a n d M r . M a r k w h o h a v e a l l c o n t r i b u t e d i n t o m a k i n g t h i s f i r s t i s s u e o f t h i s s c h o o l y e a r , 2 0 2 2 - 2 0 2 3 , p o s s i b l e . W e h o p e t h a t y o u g u y s w i l l e n j o y o u r f i r s t i s s u e o f t h i s s c h o o l y e a r a s w e l l a s s h o w u s s u p p o r t f o r t h e o t h e r i s s u e s i n t h e f u t u r e .

S i n c e r e l y , Kelly

Natasha Sakulyanonvitaya

Aun Thiapairat

Kade Lewis

Esther Bang

Sybel Zou

Brave Yongphiphatwong

Hilight Silprachawong

Belle Sertsaibua

Minjae Kwon

Siwoo Yoo

Aum Kuansongtham

Kush Natani

Joshua Kim

Brave Yongphiphatwong

Rhema Zhang

Belle Sertsaibua

Bam Butsomboon

IngIng Tongviseskul

Linda Cho

Russia Chawala

Prim Boonyasit

Nicha Kulchanapark

Olivia Chen

Elsa Chiang

Gusty Jothaprasert

Zander Jeinthanuttkanont

Bam Butsomboon

Samik Kundu

Rani Kothari

Lulu Juan

IngIng Tongviseskul

Tam Sukvivatn

Thank Sukvivatn

Hilda Kim

Gloria Park

Angie Tanabodee-umpon

Amy Kim

Grace Choi

Nicha Kulchanapark

Hayeong Koh

Olivia Chen

Chanya Ngamvirojcharoen

Belle Mateedunsatits

Parn Limwattananon

Jacey Kim

Wipha Prachamorn

Ava Janejirakosit

Claire Chan

Kate Supthavichaiyakul

Couple Couple Couple

IInterviews Interviews nterviews

MR. JONATHAN & MRS. LINSEY

Interviewed by: Fah P.

Photos by: Aum K.

WHEN DID THE TWO OF YOU MEET AND HOW?

Mr. Jonathan: We met May 20th, 2019 and we met online using a dating app.

Mrs. Linsey: Well, May 20th was the first day, so probably May 17th?

Mr. Jonathan: Yep!

Mrs. Linsey: But yeah, we matched because our profiles met the criterias in order for us to see each other’s faces, locations, and religion.

Mr. Jonathan: And we also went to the same church and had never met. And it was cool to make that connection, and so I asked her out to get breakfast!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Mrs. Linsey: His ability to maintain level headedness, at least in demeanor at all times. And also his heart to serve so he really loves to serve everyone like me, his students, and even in the spaces that he is in

Mr. Jonathan: And I really love the way that she compliments me. So there are many ways that I am weak and she’s strong which is really beautiful

Mrs. Linsey: And vice versa :)

Mr. Jonathan: She’s very organized and

logical. She’s good with numbers, lists, and planning I can do those a little bit but she’s really good at those things. And she’s also very adventurous and bold, things that I am not naturally good at. That’s why I’m always thankful that she’s courageous when I'm afraid.

Mrs. Linsey: Thank you <3

WHAT ARE YOUR GUYS' FAVORITE WAYS TO SPEND TIME TOGETHER?

Mr. Jonathan: So we have our own hobbies, but kind of together we also really love exercising, sharing meals, hanging out and just quality time I think quality time is at the top of both of our love languages.

Mrs. Linsey: Even just being around each other not doing something super intentional is nice. But intentional-wise, we make pancakes together. On Sunday nights, we process the previous week together and look forward to the next week, praying and connecting with one another.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF EACH OTHER?

Mr. Jonathan: My first impression was “woahhhh, how is she still single and so attractive?”

Mrs. Linsey: And mine was “this guy is hot, mysterious, smart, likes to travel, and loves the Lord”

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN A RELATIONSHIP?

Mrs. Linsey: Yes, I’d say: listen well and listen actively. Don’t compromise your core values that you hold very dear but try to see from the other person’s point of view, especially before defending your’s.

Mr. Jonathan: Yeah, relationships are about give and take. You both start off in a different place and you come together Physically, you hang out together but you change to be more like the other person and that’s a really good thing because, in a lot of ways, you’re softening each other. I also put down communication.

It’s so essential and it’s always good to be on the same page. But then, on the other hand, you also have to trust each other. Sometimes you need to believe what the other person says, and when you have a lot of doubt or insecurities, it’s really hard to accept that they actually like you or really care about you!

RADA & MATTY

Interviewed by: Fah P.

Photos by: Russia C.

WHEN DID YOU GUYS FIRST MEET?

Rada: 3rd grade but we were strangers we got really close during middle school :) Matty: 3rd grade when rada was a kid

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Rada: I love how matty is funny, supportive, nice, and most importantly loving and caring to everyone around him!

Matty: Rada is really energetic, caring, and can always always make me smile and also helps me with every homework :)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO TOGETHER?

Matty: Studying, gaming, playing, cooking, everything

Rada: Calling, studying, gaming, and eating.

WHAT WERE YOUR GUYS’ FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF EACH OTHER?

Matty: This little, new kid who was really friendly to everyone which led us to become really really close friends

Rada: Matty’s smile stood out a lot and the way he spoke and acted made me feel comfortable/welcomed into a new environment (i just moved in)

WHAT ARE YOUR GUYS’ PET PEEVES FOR THE OTHER PERSON?

Matty: Rada does not know the correct timing to be playing around and will always act like a kid even when everyone else is being serious

Rada: Matty doesn’t like to talk when he’s stressed out:(

DO YOU HAVE TIPS OR ADVICE FOR OTHERS IN A RELATIONSHIP?

Rada: Communication is the key to all types of relationships! When encountering a problem, always put yourself in the other person’s shoes!

Matty: Don’t hide or fake your feelings, but also make sure to think about others’ feelings before saying or doing something. You can always use Ms. Sarah Loftus’s english skills to word your feelings differently so the other person won’t be sad about it.

NATASHA & JOSIAHAH

Photos by: Linda Cho

Interviewed by: Siwoo Yoo

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A COUPLE?

Officially, we have been a couple since August 1st. So, for around 6 months. Unofficially, 8 or 9 months.

HOW DID YOU BECOME A COUPLE / WHO MADE THE FIRST MOVE?

Josiah: I made the first move. We were in the play together and that was how we got to know each other.

Natasha: He hit me up on Instagram.

Josiah: We both got covid at the same time, so that gave me an excuse to stay in contact with her For example, I asked her “Hey, how are you doing?”

WHEN ARE SOME TIMES YOU WERE IN CONFLICT?

Natasha: When Josiah isn’t careful about his safety. We haven’t actually had a major conflict yet.

Josiah: Sometimes when I say dumb stuff

WHAT'S THE MOST ATTRACTIVE QUALITY ABOUT YOUR GIRLFRIEND / BOYFRIEND?

Josiah: How she cares a lot for her friends. The people that she cares about, she cares a lot about.

Natasha: Patience and understanding. When he’s willing to listen to me even when it seems like I’m overreacting.

WHEN ARE YOU THE MOST THANKFUL THAT YOUR GIRLFRIEND AND BOYFRIEND ARE THERE?

Natasha: When I am stressed or feel like I don’t want to come to school. Also in happy times because you have someone to share the happy moments with.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VALENTINES? IS IT DIFFERENT NOW THAT YOU ARE IN A RELATIONSHIP?

We haven’t actually had a Valentine's Day together yet. In a way, it's kind of an excuse to go on a date though. It’s not very different but we put more effort into the date.

TIPS: WHAT VALENTINE PRESENTS ARE THE BEST?

Fresh flowers and chocolate are the best. Stuffies are good too. The stereotypical stuff are stereotypical for a reason. Give a flower that never wilts, like lego flowers and say “My love for you dies when this flower dies.” Cheesy stuff is good. Or just spend time together and write notecards for each other.

DARREN & KILEY

Interviewed: Kade L.

Photos by: Linda C.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Darren: She is really kind and has these beautiful energetic blue eyes. Kiley: He’s so funny and I like his big muscles.

WHAT ANNOYS YOU MOST ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Darren: She loves her cats more than me Kiley: When he gets jealous of my cats.

FAVORITE THING TO DO WITH EACH OTHER

Darren: Read the bible. Kiley: Read the Quran

BROMANCE INTERVIEW: OM & RUSSIA

Interviewed by: Kade L.

Photos by: Kade L.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Om: His sense of humor

Russia: His smile.

WHAT ANNOYS YOU MOST ABOUT EACH OTHER?

Om: He gets too many girls.

Russia: Nothing he is perfect, and he makes me feel safe.

FAVORITE THING TO DO WITH EACH OTHER

Om: Taking walks together at night (sometimes we hold hands) Russia: Just listening to him talk. I just love what he has to say.

Friendship Friendship Friendship IInterviews Interviews nterviews

MRS. DEBBIE & MS. SARAH

Interviewed by: Samik K.

Photos by: Inging T.

WHEN DID THE TWO OF YOU BECOME FRIENDS AND HOW DID YOU BECOME FRIENDS?

Ms. Sarah: So, my first year at ICS, I started coming to Mrs. Debbie’s room in the morning. I used to come to her room, talk to her, then we would walk to devotions together and that is how we became friends

WHAT ARE SOME HOBBIES THAT YOU HAVE THAT YOU LIKE TO DO TOGETHER IN AND OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL?

Mrs. Debbie: In school, I don’t know, we eat snacks together and just talk.

Ms. Sarah: We talk about life We talk about lessons and students And outside school, we like to watch murder crime shows.

Mrs. Debbie: Till we find a real murder to investigate.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE OTHER?

Ms. Sarah: Mrs. Debbie is honest but also very reflective.

Mrs. Debbie: Ms. Sarah is the other part of me.

LASTLY, A WEIRD QUESTION TO END WITH, DOES A STRAW HAVE ONE HOLE OR TWO?

Mrs. Debbie: It depends on how you would look at it though.

Ms. Sarah: I would say one.

Mrs. Debbie: See, I would say two, one at each end.

Ms. Sarah: But isn’t it just one long hole?

ANNIE & NISHA

Interviewed by: Proud U.

Photos by: Aum K.

Many are certainly convinced that Annie and Nisha– or what they lovingly call Annisha– are simply long-lost siblings because there is no other way to make sense of how perfectly these two complement each other. Let us hear from this iconic senior duo to find out more about their sixteen-year friendship!

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF EACH OTHER?

Annie: We were two, so we don’t actually know.

Nisha: But we became friends in fourth grade, and we bonded over the fact that we had the same hairstyles and hair clips. Annie: I thought that you were either going to be my nemesis or my best friend!

DESCRIBE EACH OTHER IN 3 WORDS:

Nisha: Beautiful, Smart, So-Funny

Annie: Sweet, Funny, Clumsy

FAVORITE/MOST QUIRKY MEMORY WITH EACH OTHER:

Annie: In fourth grade, we had separate trips to Japan with our families, and I was eating escargot with my family when Nisha walked out of the elevator where we met by accident. That was kinda quirky. Also, we went around Sampeng Market without having any money

Nisha: We’d used up our last 100 baht to pay for the Tuk-Tuk!

ADVICE FOR LONG-STANDING, HEALTHY FRIENDSHIPS?

Annie: Respect and self-awareness. I feel like I know myself enough to know how I want to be treated, and I know her well enough to know how she likes to be treated as well. So, there’s a sense of respect for both yourself and the other person.

Nisha: Yeah! Also, we take the time to understand each other’s feelings If you’re at the beginning of a friendship, don’t expect it to be a certain way because you have to grow together first– don’t compare it to “perfect-looking” twenty-plus year friendships that you might see.

1 THING YOU WISH THE OTHER WOULD STOP DOING:

Nisha: Doing this certain voice when she tries to impersonate a Tokyo dessert seller

Annie: Saying the word “yeah” in a weird way and telling me that her feet smell bad.

ZANDER, PARN, G

Photos

officially) known as the dynamic trio of the Class of 2024 Filled with their bubbly, quirky, and jiggly personalities, Unsurprisingly, they have been friends for over five years: Although they have different interests, they bond pretty m the “real ones” on how to maintain a long-lasting

Interviewed by: Belle S

by: Belle S

HI! PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND YOUR FRIENDS.

Parn: My name is Parn. This is Zander and this is Gusty. We’ve known each other for more than one year.

Gusty: I’m Gusty. Parn is depressed, and Zander is really happy

WHAT DO YOU GUYS NORMALLY DO DURING HANGOUTS?

Gusty: We either study or play ROV Those are the two things we do during hangouts. Oh, and eat.

Parn: We talk about life problems.

Gusty: Which is ourselves.

Zander: We like to complain about how difficult school is, then we go back to studying.

Parn: We also trash talk about College Board, but then study for AP classes.

HOW DO YOU GUYS GET OVER DISAGREEMENTS?

Gusty: We never disagree.

Zander: We never disagree because I’m always right. Next question.

Gusty: We never disagree because we’re all men and we can agree on something.

Parn: We never disagree because if we did, then we’ll argue with Zander So, we never disagree on anything with Zander, even though his logic is wrong most of the time.

Gusty: That is true.

WHAT’S THE SECRET TO A LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP?

Gusty: Wait, we’re friends? -

Gusty: Humor, depression.

Parn: You have to have something relatable

Zander: Yeah, you need to be able to bond over suffering. For instance, you bond over Mr. Jeremy’s AP Calculus BC, except that I take AB, but they (Parn and Gusty) take BC.

Siblings Siblings Siblings IInterviews Interviews nterviews

TOUCH & NUT

Interviewed by: Brave

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RELATIONSHIP IN THREE WORDS?

Nut: feisty, understanding, comfortable

WHAT DO YOUR ADMIRE MOST ABOUT YOUR SIBLING?

Touch: I would say that Nut is more than just a sibling Even though she is two minutes younger than me, I admire how she can be so much more than just a sibling. Sometimes I see her as a friend where we both can talk about our interests and passions, sometimes she acts like a mom to teach me love lessons, and sometimes she is just a normal sibling and giving support through my rough times. It is like a perfect package that supports my life everyday. So I would like to say thank you to Nut for her support.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES GROWING UP THAT YOU HAVE WITH YOUR SIBLINGS?

Nut: When we get to go on sibling dates together. I have to say that I never thought that we would become this close until high school. We both have a lot in common, so we normally have no problems hanging out or making plans to go out. Recently, we went on a dinner date to get ramen

WHAT IS ONE UNIQUE THING ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP THAT MIGHT BE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER SIBLINGS?

Nut: Since we're the same age and we grew up together, I think we experience similar things. Which I think makes us able to sympathize with each other better. We are open to really vulnerable conversations, which I think can be hard to find in some sibling relationships

AFTER YOU GRADUATED FROM HIGH SCHOOL AND GO TO A DIFFERENT UNIVERSITY, WHAT WILL YOU MISS MOST ABOUT LIVING WITH YOUR SIBLING YOUR ENTIRE LIFE?

Touch: There is one thing I will never get bored of and I probably won’t have that much time left to do it anymore which is to annoy the most out of my sister. So I will probably miss that the most There were many things that happened during high school with my sibling, but one thing for certain is that I always love to annoy Nut. Just acting weird, making stupid jokes, pretending to be mad and much more So for the few months left I have with Nut in ICS, one of my main goals is to just annoy the most out of her. Doesn’t sound like a good sibling right? Well that is just one way of showing love and care for my twin

WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF HAVING YOUR SIBLING BE IN THE SAME GRADE AS YOU?

Nut: Comparing our scores, but then I eventually got used to it. We both excel in different fields and Touch is hardworking, so I would understand that sometimes he would score so much better than I do. As we got into high school, we selected different courses as well, so it became harder for us to compare with each other. In the end I'm just always happy for him when he does well in school, so I guess it doesn't really matter anymore

DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLING ADVICE FOR OTHERS?

Touch: I don’t really have good sibling advice for others since Nut and I share a different connection. We are more like friends. But after all, being nice and understanding to your sibling is probably the best thing your sibling could ask for. It might sound simple to some of you, but just being able to empathize with the other person on what they are going through is more than enough. Just being able to be there for them would create a difference. So my advice for others would be that it is normal to fight, to argue, or to dislike the other person, but never stop loving them. Not everyone is lucky enough to be born with someone to watch your back!

ESTHER & ANNA

Photos by: IngIng T.

Interviewed by: Minjae K.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE / DISLIKE ABOUT YOUR SISTER?

Anna: I like how we laugh the exact same I dislike the fact that she always steals my snacks and my clothes. She has her own but I guess mine are better.

Esther: I like when we hang out at the mall cause we both like the same thing I don't like Anna when she takes MY clothes and my ramen.

DESCRIBE HOW YOU SISTER MAKES YOU LAUGH

Anna: Her laugh is so weird it makes me laugh. It makes me laugh when she screams while playing video games.

Esther: She makes me laugh when she plays games; because she's so bad, it makes me giggle She says that my laugh is weird but it sounds the same so she's basically making fun of herself too.

DO YOU THINK YOUR SIBLING IS THE SAME AT HOUSE AS SHE IS IN SCHOOL?

Anna: No way lol. She talks way more at home At school she's more reserved and quiet but at home she's unhinged and says whatever she wants. She also sings "Hype Boy" by New Jeans everyday.

Esther: She's kinda the same at home at at school but at school, she socializes more than at home. She also randomly says sound effects from tiktok all the time.

DO YOU LIKE GOING OUT OR STAYING HOME AND WHY?

Anna: I like both. Going out with friends is

always fun but I love watching things and chilling in my room/bed. I enjoy staying up and watching Tiktoks as well.

Esther: I like staying at home because I'm an introvert and I like watching movies/playing games. I enjoy alone time.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT YOUR SIBLING?

Anna: I would say it's how when we are outside, she makes me order the food and makes me go outside for the Grab order when she could just do it herself.

Esther: I would change how she comes into my room d ll h d d l e the do ts to do

Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor IInterview Interview nterview

TONNAM W.

Interviewed by: Amy K.

Photos by: Brave Y.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE BEST THINGS AND WORST THINGS ABOUT VALENTINE'S DAY?

I think the best things about Valentine's Day are that people can get together in a relationship, they can be happy, and they can support each other, but I think the bad thing is that a lot of people might be pressured again into a relationship, so then it might not end well.

HOW ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY THIS YEAR? DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIAL PLANS FOR VALENTINE'S DAY?

Alone, lonely, by myself. No, I don’t.

WHICH TRADITIONAL GIFT WOULD YOU RECEIVE: CHOCOLATES, FLOWERS, OR A CARD WITH A PERSONAL MESSAGE AND WHY?

I’ll take as much chocolate as I could get, just because I like eating chocolate

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ROMANCE MOVIE/SHOW/BOOK?

I don’t watch romance movie, shows, or books.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BEST WAY TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WHEN SOMEONE IS SINGLE?

To be by yourself, watching or enjoying, and pretending that you have a partner, so then you won’t feel as lonely

on Valentine's Day.

WOULD YOU RATHER RECEIVE 100 ROSES OR 100 CHOCOLATES?

100 chocolates because I like chocolates

HOW DO YOU THINK THE MAJORITY OF SINGLES FEEL ABOUT VALENTINE’S DAY? DO YOU THINK IT’S SOMETHING THAT MOST ARE AWARE OF / THINK ABOUT / FEEL PRESSURE OVER? OR NOT SO MUCH?

A lot of people that have never been in a relationship before would think of it as a pressure, to not and want to be cool like their friends who are in a relationship. The people who have been in one before would think of it as a blessing. I’m talking about toxic ones, but people who have been in one before and still want one, feel lonely, alone, sad, and depressed in a room by themselves

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF A RELATIONSHIP?

There’s a lot I’ll say communication, if you have communication, then even if you argue, you’d have to talk to each other to solve things out without just blankly leaving the other person, without telling them what is happening, or how to solve the problems. Commitment, because with commitment, then a relationship can go really far. Even if you have a problem, if you’re committed to each other, if both sides are committed then there will be a balance in things and a relationship can last. And then, hm, the third one maybe I mean personally it’s just loving the other person unconditionally.

FILIAL PIETY AND FAMILIAL RELATIONSHIPS IN ASIAN CULTURE

In essence of Valentine's Day, in which people oftentimes are drowned in the thoughts of love, romantic relationships, roses, and chocolate It also tends to be the time when lovers express their affection with gifts and greetings. With this in mind, we might forget our invaluable, internal connection with ourselves and our family members

On Valentine’s Day, we hope that this particular interview series with Ms.Diana Jongjintanakarn–founder of the Facebook Page, Rao Tong Rod (We Must Survive) with over 1,000 volunteers, polyglot emcee, recipient of "The Dedicated Person for Society" by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security in 2021 as well as the Pid Thong Lang Phra

Written by: Hilight S.

award from the Crime Journalist Association of Thailand in 2021–conducted by the Source of Success official ICS interscholastic club will bring light to relationships that may not have come to mind at first thought when speaking of Valentines day.

Firstly, when asked about losing relationships and connections with others Ms.Diana responded with a memorable quote:

“Losing connection with other people is ok, but never lose connection with yourself. Always know how you’re feeling. I talk to myself, I ask myself how I’m feeling. Be kind not just to others, but be kind to yourself ”

“Look at the world from the eyes of someone who is full of dreams and imaginations, because you can be whoever you want to be.”

“I think, therefore, I am. ”

Loss of connection to other people and loneliness can lead to unhealthy addictions, such as extensive addiction to gaming and internet, . This a vital indicator that the individual is in need of connection with one another in a caring and safe environment.

Truth be told, before developing a face-to face connection with others, it is important that people overcome isolation, which requires a change in the way we perceive ourselves and others–a change in cognition.

Consequently, we have to learn to healthily connect with others by firstly understanding ourselves and learning to “never lose connection with yourself.” Thus, on the 14th of February, wisely dedicating your time to both spending quality time with yourself and your loved ones is of paramount importance.

WITH REGARDS TO SELF-CARE AND PRIORITIZING REKINDLING WITH OURSELVES, HOW ARE SELF-CARE AND SELFISHNESS DIFFERENT?

“Selfishness is when you put your advantage/prioritize your advantage before others. Meaning, you’re to get in line and you cut the line to get food before other people. That’s prioritizing your own advantage over other peoples’.” In other words, it’s the desire to exploit or take away from others, often to their detriment, and not give back. On the other hand, self-care is about replenishing your own intrinsic resources without depleting or exploiting others’.

“Self care is being kind to yourself, knowing you’ve worked hard, knowing you have done all you can, and giving yourself a chance to not be at it all the time.” Restoring your energy helps promote holistic wellness.

Filial Piety

STRESS AND PRESSURE FROM PARENTS

“I understand the stress of having the need to excel in everything, having the need to prove to your parents that I am good. Having the feeling that, I must accomplish something to get something ” The search for academic validation, acceptance, and a sense of belonging remains an important factor and has taken a toll in several families.

There remains a conspicuous gap between parents and children and exploring methods to bridge the breach, involves communication and understanding from both parties.

HOW TO DEAL WITH PRESSURE FROM PARENTS AND PARENTS WHO COMPARE?

“For me, I feel like everyone is fighting their own journey, she’s on her own journey, you have your journey. When you care too much about other peoples’ journeys, you lose your focus ”

“When you know where you’re going, you press the GPS and it takes you there, but when you’re not following the GPS, you’re talking to your friends and you’re taking a detour, and you just keep on detouring everywhere, it will take you nowhere.”

“Find your focus point, find your destination and focus.”

“I believe if you stay focused, you will be on track and you will be on the journey to success.”

How can you set a goal without getting distracted? When you look at the others, do you want their parents to also be proud of you?

“You need to communicate with your parents: the things that make them proud of you and the things that make you proud of yourself, does it go in the same direction/align?”

“Sometimes communication between parents and children is key. There are no parents who want to see their children suffer, but sometimes their hopes and ambitions are expressed in an aggressive way.”

“I believe parents will always be ready to give their children a hug and will always be ready to hand you a piece of tissue when you’re sad or hopeless.”

“It’s like they’re the CEO, the people who take care of the budget, you got to go talk to them whether or not they’re ok with what you’re doing” and come to a consensus in which both parties agree with or find the middle ground.

My mom and I, when I was a kid, always fought. But when we’ve communicated more, we understand each other, everything becomes better. But if everyone wants different things, it becomes tiring.”

Contrary to popular belief, Valentine’s Day should be celebrated not only for lovers, but also for all of the individuals who we love. To clarify, Valentine’s Day is not the only way to express our gratitude and appreciation for our loved ones, rather another opportunity to let those who we

love know how much we’re grateful for them in our lives.

Follow us for more motivational interviews and gain insights or join the Source of Success club for more

IG: @ sourceof.success

FB: Source of Success

Youtube: Source of Success

Having somewhere to go is home. Having someone to love is family, it means you love and be loved for the rest of your life. And having both is a blessing.

Heart-Warming Books for Valentine's

Written by: Belle S.

It’s never a bad idea to enjoy Valentine's with a good book. Reading a book is self-care: you are spending time with yourself and doing something you like on a special day It doesn’t have to be romantic it can be a novel with a fulfilling ending or one that fills your heart with joy or one that hopefully gives you a new outlook on life.

Book #1: The Tattooist of Auschwitz

Rating: 4/5

Explicit content: kissing, persecution against Jews, rape

You might be wondering why I’m starting with a dark, historical-fiction novel. Answer: because it’s my favorite But hear me out, this novel is not as dark as you think it’ll be Of course, World War II was a period where most people back then (and people nowadays) lost faith in humanity. However, Jews showed kindness towards one another in times of persecution, which shows their determination and grit in fighting against the cruel world. That seed of kindness is where a love story between Lale the tattooist and Gita grew Lale was given the job as a tattooist where he worked closely with the SS and other German officers in Auschwitz. During Lale’s shift, he met Gita a beautiful young lady with fear in her eyes. There are multiple horrifying anecdotes included in the novel to describe the situation in Auschwitz that is described from Lale’s, or a Jew’s, point of view, which readers can easily empathize with. Despite the intense plot, the language that Heather Morris uses is fairly simple: there is barely a section where scenes were vividly described, which, to my liking, is not the best choice. Nonetheless, author Heather Morris captures a phenomenal story of how their love first sprouted and grew throughout the hardships that they both endured.

Book #2: Tuesdays with Morrie

Rating: 5/5

Explicit content: None

Morrie Schwartz is a sociology professor that is dying from ALS. He is short in stature and has a personality that not many college professors have: genuinity Author Mitch Albom was Morrie’s student during college and had the chance to reconnect with his professor in a “class” hosted every Tuesday. The class requires both Mitch and Morrie to talk and share stories while being openly vulnerable about their lives which sounds very much like ICS’s Triple T. Morrie dives deep into topics related to life, time, love, communication, happiness, and other topics that we, as teenagers, still don’t have the answer to and strives to find one. If you’re that person, then this book is definitely for you. Being around and studying people his whole life, Morrie explains these topics, although in a simple manner, that allows readers to realize what is actually essential in our lives. It sounds like a simple self-help book, but this is based on personal experience, not scientific evidence: the insights are new, fresh, and heart-warming Throughout this novel, you will truly become more connected to Morrie (and Mitch). So, let Morrie accompany you as your life advisor during Valentine’s.

Book #3: กลองตกตาใสกบจดหมายของพอ (A Box With Dad’s Letters)

Rating: 5/5

Explicit content: None

I remembered crying while reading this back in 5th grade. This book is about Tonkaow, a young daughter that lost her father to cancer. While her father was hospitalized, he wrote several letters dedicated to big milestones in Tonkaow’s life, such as marriage, university, and many more. This novel showcases a strong father-daughter bond in Thai culture where the father cares about his daughter’s well-being in various ways The writer has the ability to narrate Tonkaow’s story while also doing a great job of illustrating a father’s caring thoughts about his daughter. Valentine’s is not only about somebody else, but your family as well; so, grab this book and cuddle with your family!

RELATIONSHIP ADVICE: “MINDFUL COMMUNICATION”

Written by: Natasha S.

Being in a relationship can be fluttery and shy smiles, but there are also times when it’s more of bubbling frustration or buzzing anxiety I think we can all agree that relationships are not easy. Whoever said that “Love is supposed to be easy” clearly has never had a healthy relationship. Love is a choice that we choose to act out through the hard and easy times, the feeling doesn’t always stay, but your actions do.

Now, you may or may not be asking what my credentials are to be giving advice about relationships. To put it plainly, I’ve been in a few relationships myself, both in real life, in middle school, in high school, and even long-distance (online dating). So here are a few things that I’ve learned and experienced.

“Communication is key” is a phrase that many people may have heard. It may even be the top result for what makes a healthy relationship. However, this phrase is too broad and gives almost nothing for couples to really go by except that they have to talk to each other. But, there is a right and a wrong way to communicate. A better phrase to put couples on the right track would be:

“Mindful communication is key.” What do I mean by this? Simply that you listen to your partner with the mindset of empathy. That sometimes takes strength to not hear one word from your partner and immediately start thinking about your own speech. Instead, take a step back and understand that this is important for your partner, they are giving you a glimpse into their mind, and it would be wise to listen. This will keep you and your partner connected–the most important thing in a relationship is connection Most of the time, words and impulse retorts can disconnect you from each other.

Your tone is what your partner will hear 80% of the time Body language and your words follow after Acknowledge your partner’s reasons and emotions, empathize with them

If you have reasons of your own, it would be good that your partner is also in the same mindset of open communication and understanding Together, come up with a solution that best suits your relationship, not just one person

“Set your Boundaries” Some of these “Mindful communications” may be conversations about boundaries, something that every couple–and even friendships–should have. I’m sure that for many of you, Triple T has done a good job of explaining and reiterating how important boundaries are. Even so, the reason for boundaries is not only to protect yourself, it’s also a way to get to know your partner’s values, and get to know yourself more.

Being able to be firm in your decisions and thoughts will keep you happier than if you never set any boundaries. A little excerpt from my own experience is that no boundaries lead to guilt and when it all comes crashing down, you’ll regret not being able to say “no.”

WHEN YOU RESPOND, THERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND.

“These two are probably the two biggest lessons you will learn and continue to learn throughout the rest of your life. “Mindful communication” has a lot more to it than what I listed above so next is a short fire list of things that I don’t have space for:

Know and understand your love language AND your problem-solving language (attachment styles help)

Hard conversions are not like the movies, it’s almost like a more emotional business proposal

Get to know relationship cycles–problems stem from those, and the cycle needs to be broken

Learn and show your partner love through their love language

Let your partner know what you like, don’t just have them figure it all out Do what your partner likes, don’t just be told and archive that information to never use (this goes for guys and girls)

For my fellow Christians: remember to always put God at the center of it all and trust Him.

Alright well, even though I could go into a 6-page essay about relationships (not just romantic), I am out of space. So if you’ve read this far and have questions or want to know more, feel free to shoot me a text at nat. .ahsatan on Instagram.

I wish you well on your journey of healthy connection!