22 West Magazine - December 2018

Issue 83.04 December 3, 2018 www.22WestMedia.com

1

2

Issue 83.04

DIGRESS WITH JESS

CONTENTS HOLIDAY POLITICS How to survive a post-election meltdown.

STAFF Jess Kung, Editor-in-Chief editorinchief@22westmedia.com Yessenia Sanchez, Managing Editor managingeditor@22westmedia.com Tara Thomas, Art Director artdirector@22westmedia.com Lola Olvera, Lead Copy Editor Kristi Alarcon, Editor Jarrod Castillo, Editor Isabelle Cruz, Editor Kirsten Hernandez, Editor Karla Lopez, Editor CONTRIBUTORS Jireh Deng, Contributor Sarah I Desmond, Contributor Marissa Espiritu, Contributor Hannah Hajost, Contributor Dominic Hure, Contributor Asher Reeves, Distribution Manager Gerrel Sayles, Contributor John Stouras, Contributor Eva Valencia, Contributor Nathan Xa, Contributor COVER DESIGN E.R. Conte, Contributor

CONTACT US Mail: 1212 Bellflower Blvd. Suite 116 Long Beach, CA 90815 Phone: 562.985.4867 E-mail: editorinchief@22westmedia.com Insta/Twitter: @22westlb

By Jess Kung Editor-In-Chief Do you ever think about how, as students, we’re trained to measure years in semesters? I’m getting closer and closer to graduation, staring into the barrel of a future where I’m out of that four-month rhythm and scrambling to find respite from what would aspirationally be a full-time job.

I don’t think it’s going to be that bad. But for now, I appreciate having a month-long break from this particular institution that takes up like twenty or more hours of my week.

I happen to like driving up the 5, especially when the sun is out and you can feel the expanse of the state. If we were on the other coast, I would be driving at least a state or two away.

When I get to my parents’ house, I park across the street. Ringing the doorbell freaks the dog out, because everything on the other side of the door is a terrifying monster. But the front window is usually cracked open so that the cat can smell the outside, so I’ll say hello to her before calling into the house, “Hey, I’m at the door!”

The dog barks anyway when she realizes there is another monster, but once the door is open she (usually) recognizes me and accepts a belly rub. If it is late at night, my dad is usually the one up to greet me, asking how the drive was, and if I want anything to eat, and that I should go to bed soon.

I appreciate every day that I have a family I can go home to. In them I find security, and trust, and relationships that show up in my body: in my posture, my palette, my accent.

They aren’t even necessarily the highest quality relationships I have, but they’re the first, and they’re pretty good.

Our stories this month explore family as young adults, people taking their first steps out the nest. Also, bullet journaling. So that’s pretty cool. It’s also our copy editor’s last issue, shoutout to Lola, the most stylish minimalist out there.

Wish you the best!

Take it easy, y’all.

SEVEN DEADLY SINS Don’t sell your soul this holiday season.

GIRAFFES FOR MASCOT A case for the Long Necks.

CREED 2 REVIEW It’s a knockout.

GRATEFULNESS 22West shares what they are thankful for.

BEHIND THE BULLET JOURNAL A combination of art and productivity.

IT ALL RUNS IN THE FAMILY How mental illness can bring a family together.

MINIMALISM A practical guide to decluttering.

WHO AM I/CANDLELIT Student Poetry

GRUNION An alternative home for alternative facts.

4

5 6 7 8 10 12 14 15 16

Disclaimer and Publication Information: 22 West Magazine is published using ad money and partial funding provided by the Associated Students, Inc. All Editorials are the opinions of their individual authors, not the magazine, ASI nor LBSU. All students are welcome and encouraged to be a part of the staff. All letters to the editor will be considered for publication. However, LBSU students will have precedence. Please include name and major for all submissions. They are subject to editing and will not be returned. Letters may or may not be edited for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and length. 22 West Magazine will publish anonymous letters, articles, editorials, and illustration, but must have your name and information attached for our records. Letters to the editor should be no longer than 500 words. 22 West Magazine assumes no responsibility, nor is it liable, for claims of its advertisers.

Grievance procedures are available in the Associated Students business office.

3

THINKING ABOUT GOING “COLD TURKEY” ON POLITICS THIS SEASON? Here’s how to survive a post-election meltdown over the holidays.

Story and Images by Hannah Hajost Contributor

The holidays are quickly approaching.

This means cozy sweaters, the smell of pine needles, hot chocolate, festive tunes and family time. Lots of family time. Gathering around the dinner table can be a welcomed event, but for many, it also has the potential of becoming a bit awkward, fast.

The holidays can already be a stressful time, and tensions can be high when family members who don’t see each other often don’t necessarily get along. Throw conflicting opinions and alcohol into the mix, and it could be a recipe for disaster.

4

What am I talking about? Politics. In today’s climate, politics can never be completely avoided. Many discussion topics revolve around popular events that are on everyone’s radar, for instance: “taxes going up,” “taking a knee,” or “#MeToo.” So, how can you survive the holidays when politics loom overhead?

Below are ways you can minimize bruised egos and dramatic exits, and instead create a meaningful dialogue so you can get back to what’s really important: the holiday feast itself.

Start by agreeing to disagree.

You’ve heard this mantra since elementary school. Not everyone is going to agree with the things you believe all the time, and vice versa.

Going into a discussion with the knowledge that it doesn’t help to tell others that their feelings are “wrong” can neutralize the threat of a long-winded argument. Feelings and opinions can’t be wrong, facts can be wrong. Going into the evening with a clear grasp on the difference can work wonders.

As tempting as it is, don’t take the bait.

If you feel backed into a corner, don’t be afraid to simply change the subject. When you lead by example, others around the table will take the hint and catch on (hopefully). No harm, no foul.

The next thing is easier said than done, but try to accept what you can’t change.

Truthfully, they probably won’t see the light. Instead of attempting to convert long-held beliefs, instead try to focus on furthering mutual understanding.

By being an engaged, effective listener you’re much more likely to see where they’re coming from. This benefits you

“Be curious, and really try to understand their point of view.” too: by asking open-ended questions rather than spouting declarations, the other person is much more likely to let you say your piece as well.

And finally, try not to take what family members say personally.

Let’s face it: your Aunt Carol may have a very impassioned opinion on gun reform after three glasses of wine.

Perhaps the most important tip to remember is that it’s not about you. If you do have to bring up a sensitive subject, do it with compassion. Being kind has a way of neutralizing other threats to your relationship, like emotionally charged belief systems and decades of political leanings. They’re family, and they’re not going anywhere.

THE SE7EN DEADLY SINS OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON These are the seven deadly sins you should avoid at your upcoming family shindigs.

By Asher Reeves Distribution Manager

The holiday season is just as stressful as finals week: you have to cram a lot of information in your head, pack, share your space with random people you barely know, eat a strange assortment of food just to get by, sleep on the floor and do other things that might make you uncomfortable. But you still have to remember that this is the most wonderful time of the year so treat it as such! Indulge yourself with all the holiday season has to offer, but don’t get too crazy or else you might be the Grinch this year without even knowing it.

1.

n since ven’t see your a h u o y nd is family frie oesn’t mean this ey cause a d e th r, b d e t n v s a o u J n is LUST:Alone 2” came out f snacks in the kitchend ‘play’ and ork’ a lenty o “Home ere are p arn to separate ‘w mited to: blood h T . e c n lly cha . Le not li k of litera e of them es but is and thin rk aren’t on ily (which includ o d w n s a a t nds) e Lus fam think of family frie earn to ignore th aws and L -l y. in la y, p il fam on as er situati every oth ith Love. w replace it

2.

3.

pig at like a oing to e g and e e ’r u th a o n’t bre ce it, y a a c F u : o y Y l TON on. You will eat ‘til ggnog, a few shotsgaranndny’s GLUT all of fit in e ay seas this holid ow, find a way to ave to indulge in ave New h h e s . You h then som You do not alway a reason t’s up to your r fo Y .

A ie pecan p a cheat D /or Eve but tha le the who nd You have cooking. Christmas DAY (a DAY. Do not use broke Y, g ea Year’s DA and Thanksgivin ed; you’r into n you ne e it. Don’t give n) a o ti th re re c o is k d m li e t c m a u uld cons you sho week to dent and s. tu s e g e coll tation us temp gluttono

ta ou. “I go ood for y s as well.

G ” r! te s ew me d this se is great n e MUCH graduate ar!” That I m e “ t y o : t g x , E e E n PRID e field I want for U ALL DON’T LIK Please, for the love th O Y .” in job a kid be the HOM ve me as see family. Don’t friend, W a y g o r b e v y e M “ you y’all an Apple ifts than ew when ercedes, n M d a n s ra a better g b h e her t o not ac ause she g. If you don’t lik in of God d you despise bec a b ri i ke P de ss st Gucc either. Ta ’t n girl in cla ods and the late ld u o h s irP then you Watch, A indirectly, r. ff o g in show bette for being yourself

4.

5.

6.

7.

hat your jealous of w e b t h ig m that you n go to the understand s might eve I d : n ’s Y ie fr V r u N E as. Yo reason. That re for Christm o od-forsaken m g e e h m T . so u friends get r front of yo hristmas fo in C r e , fo av n h o as u Baham hat yo this seas n to enjoy w ers, especially during ar le t u at b th l, coo oth n. Use the long ru e yourself to yourself in you compar to o d ’ll u arm yo you. the more h Envious of ake others m d an y rg ene

w, while nesday no d e W n o art er ay sales st eek. Before and aft Black Frid w e you : iv re D g ti n E ’t e E sn n e a GR onday sales last That do . th ally n o ti e m hole ypoth c Cyber M last for a w n you can afford. H . How much of s le sa s a a ow Christm more th unt right n lf, then to spend your acco re than ha in o 0 m 0 an excuse d 5 $ re e e answ erybody, you hav elf? If you gift for ev rs e u speaking, n o o y H g n in o tt spend ’re ge ER SMAS it do you lves “SUP ble. If you u o v o tr in it in y ss nle ead DY! you’re alr yourself. U get GREE ne gift for the case, o s t t’ e a g th n e if th nd IMATE” a BROS. ULT

a half. a month and f school for o ash Bros. ut o Sm re er u’ p , yo y some Su la p ff, ay on o SLOTHax: ,So e too much! St enjoy your tim on’t slack off ses! d as ut cl Great! Rel B xt s. ar ne b the local bi for your to lla sy ut o e o th ly g r r nt o ove nsta regime, look Sloths are co thing. Even your workout no o d to e is tim Don’t use th w they are! pite how slo es d , ng vi o m

family member ard it is when a kw aw w hen ho of k in mfortable. Or w WRATH:mTh makes you unco os. at Br th h ng as hi et Sm r py of Supe brings up so co st la e th ok ’t Don ty kid to u were too slow. that gross snot sale because yo cause as be , tm on ris e Ch ov e m th from ep breath and de a joy things ke en Ta to u. rder for you ha let it get to yo it e ak m ly w will on clever clapback getting mad no th to think of a ra W os. at th e us ead, kid in Smash Br tomorrow. Inst ar or own that ye xt ne r be em m for that family u get a copy! online when yo

5

GIRAFFE FOR MASCOT! A case for the long necks.

Story and Illustration by Dominic Hure Contributor

On September 20, 2018, Long Beach State officially retired Prospector Pete, our mascot since the ‘60s. According to the article that announced his retirement, Prospector Pete was an outdated symbol that no longer represented our student population.

Over the years, our population has become diverse and inclusive, which conflicts with the violent, racist actions of the prospectors. We became “The Beach,” which is an excellent title, but not a concrete symbol that a student body can root for and rally around.

What this school needs is…the giraffe.

The giraffe is a perfect mascot for plenty of reasons: Every spot on a giraffe’s body is unique, like a fingerprint. This combination of unique elements is reflective of our campus’ diversity and inclusivity.

Like our students, giraffes reach high for success.

The giraffe is peaceful and graceful, but when threatened, it is a force to be reckoned with, as is our student body (Google “Giraffe vs lion,” it’s hardcore).

Giraffes literally have the largest heart of any land animal, just like our students.

It’s already our school colors.

6

“The Long Beach Longnecks” has a nice ring to it.

My post promoting a giraffe mascot was one of the most popular posts overall on Imagine Beach 2030, the online discussion about LBSU’s future.

On Twitter, LBSU President Jane Conoley said, “I love your analysis. Diversity.

Uniqueness.

Big heart.

Peaceful.

Reaching high. Black and Gold. All good.” Students and faculty can clearly see the giraffe’s full potential.

If you would like to show your support for the giraffe, scan the QR code in the corner with your camera app and it will take you to a petition. You can also use the hashtag #longbeachlongnecks and follow @Giraffe4Mascot on Twitter for updates and witty giraffe jokes. Stand tall, Long Beach!

IT’S A KNOCKOUT “Creed II” delivers in an epic sequel that “Rocky” fans have been anticipating for 33 years.

By Gerrel Sayles Contributor

Taking place three years after the first Creed, Creed II follows Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan), who has now won numerous bouts, as he captures the WBC World Heavyweight Championship.

In addition, his relationship with Bianca Taylor (Tessa Thompson) continues to grow.

For fans of the Rocky series that have been wondering what happened to Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) after his loss in “Rocky IV,” “Creed II” gives them the answer: Drago became an outcast in his country, resulting in him spending the last 33 years preparing his son to become a better boxer than he was. His son, Viktor (Florian Munteanu), only knows one thing: boxing.

To get the ball rolling, Ivan and his promoter go to the media to hype up the fight that boxing fans have been waiting for: Adonis vs. Viktor. What makes this fight so anticipated is the fact that Ivan killed Adonis’ father, Apollo, in a match that set forth the story of “Rocky IV.” The film does an amazing job of illustrating Adonis’ underdog story and how he overcomes multiple obstacles to obtain his goal. The overall plot was

detailed and very effective, with a lot of background on the characters and reasons as to why each fighter needs to win the fight. Adonis has to win to avenge his father’s death and prove to the world that he is the best. Meanwhile, Viktor must not only win in order to restore the Soviet Union’s name, but to bring respect back to his family’s name after his father lost to Rocky Balboa in 1985.

Additionally, the film does an effective job of showing the intensity of boxing, with skull-crushing hits to the face that elicit audible gasps from the crowd.

The edge-of-your-seat action is made even more intense with each blow, as audiences anticipate the end of the fight.

Ultimately, “Creed II” is a great addition to the story that was told 33 years ago. It answered any questions that fans of the series may have had about “Rocky IV.” In all, this is a must-see film, even if you haven’t watched the other “Rocky” films. Watching this film right after “Creed” shows you Adonis’ growth, along with a great display of boxing.

Image courtesy of Annapurna Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

7

4

1

5

6

7

2

3

8

10

8

9

A TIME FOR REFLECTION 22 West shares what they’re grateful for Illustration by Karla Lopez Editor

It’s that time of year again. It’s started dribbling rain, just enough for people to forget how to drive. Most (but not all) of us actually need to put a jacket on in the morning. Soon the semester will be over and with finals behind us, we will be able to get some rest.

I think it’s safe to say that 22 West Media is really looking forward to the sweet yet temporary release of winter.

We asked some folks around our offices about what they’re grateful for, and what gratitude means to them. Here are their responses:

“I’m grateful for my future because it’s like having a whole world ahead of you, full of experiences that you don’t even know exist yet.”

- Tara Thomas, Industrial Design

1

“My dog’s name is Princess Yue (after the “Avatar: The Last Airbender” character) and she is a very precious baby. I appreciate her simple excitement for walks and treats, and her quiet protectiveness makes me very happy.”

“I wish I showed my gratitude more.

Like many people, I often feel like I’m burdening people when they are nice to me. It is easy to apologize and direct negativity onto myself in those instances, but I am trying to instead put positivity towards them. So when someone gives me a hand carrying something or gives me a ride home, or lets me cut in line before them, I know the best thing I can do is thank them and accept their kindness with grace. I know I would be a little annoyed if I did a nice thing for someone and they got weird about it.”

- Jess Kung, Journalism

2

“I’m just really thankful for my dad because I think I got my music taste [from him] and I’m into sports. He was always there for me growing up and whenever I go back home and he smiles it’s just the biggest smile so I don’t know. It’s great to just know he’s out there and stuff to just face swap with me.”

“For me, it’s like sparks of appreciation.

So I’ll see stuff everywhere that reminds me of something that I appreciate and I’ll smile so I’ll find myself randomly smiling a lot.”

6

3 “I’m grateful for everybody at 22 West because over the last like three and a half, four years this has been like the one consistent thing I’ve had in my college career. Other people they come and go but like the 22 West gang is always here.”

“Tell people that you love that you love them. That sounds kinda goofy but we don’t do it enough.”

- Kirsten Hernandez, Political Science and Deaf Studies

4

“I’m grateful for my family because they got me through some rough times and without them I wouldn’t be where I am.”

“If you’re grateful for something, give that on to others. Give that positivity, that energy, to someone else so that they can feel that positivity and that energy in their own lives. It’s kind of like paying it forward.”

- Jarrod Castillo, Journalism

5 “I’m thankful for the silly times I share with my younger sisters and our strong bond. For my mother that has taught me so much. For the mentors who have helped guide me through hard times. I’m thankful for my boyfriend who has been my rock and sweet surprise in this crazy thing called life.”

- Yessenia Sanchez, Journalism

“I’m pretty much grateful for my friends and family. They’re just like always there for me, especially my sisters. I appreciate them a lot because they have done so much for me and basically the way that they treat me, especially my older sister, I like to go back and do it to my friends, especially when it comes to like the loving and nurturing side of it. I’m not much of a loving, nurturing person and I can definitely learn so much from her.

She’s so kind and selfless. It’s so warm and nurturing and you’re like, wow, that’s a nice human being. I try to copy that as best as I can and just share it with my friends.“ “Being present. Honestly just being there when someone is like not having the best of times or they just need someone to talk to or if they just need space. It’s being present and letting them know that you are there for them no matter what.”

- Cheeska Lapitan, Film

7

“I’m grateful for this dog. I’m always excited to come home to her and she greets me at the door. She’s not even my dog, but I love her like she’s mine.”

- Isabelle Cruz, Journalism

8

“I’m grateful for this book because I’ve been wanting to read more books in general but sometimes can’t because of time constraints, and as a film major I feel it’s good to read and get inspired from things other than film. And I’m also grateful for it because its very informative about a period of time that I felt was really influential on our current state now as a country and a world.”

9

“I’m grateful for Jerry Seinfeld. He’s a beautiful person and looking at him gives you life. I like Seinfeld the person and the show.”

- Julian Dell, Film

“I’m thankful for California Burritos because they always get me through the night when I’m hungry and desperate and it’s 1 a.m. It’s the one place that always gets me through.”

- Brandon Kheang, Film

10

“I’m grateful for my boyfriend because he has helped me through some of the hardest times in my life.“ “[I feel grateful] usually after something has happened, really good or really bad, and I look around and I take a moment and I’m like, wow, I’m so thankful this has happened or that I have these people in my life at this time or I was strong enough to get through this or stuff like that, like when I got accepted here I was so happy.“ -Erin Haworth, Creative Writing

- Ronan Jensen, Film - Katie Sarrels, Film

9

Dingbat bullet journal, laptop, and coffee atop the Student Union building at LBSU.

BEHIND THE BULLET JOURNAL Student utilizes her trendy planner not only for art but for productivity.

Story and Photos by Sarah I Desmond Contributor

Crisp, white dotted-grid pages embellished with carefully printed to-do lists, weekly spreads and habit trackers sit inside 21-year-old Kayla Hathaway’s bullet journal. Sprawled on a two-page spread are large bold letters that spell out “K-AY-L-A-’-S B-U-L-L-E-T.” It took her three hours to carefully sketch the Serif fonts and then fill them in with black ink. Lately, she’s been playing around with sketches of skulls and poppies. When writing things down, Hathaway uses a Zebra

10

Sarasa 0.3 mm pen. For her December theme, she’s thinking outer space.

Hathaway, an Asian studies major at LBSU, has been bullet journaling since

June 2017, hopping on the bandwagon of this trendy way to keep a planner, which allows the personalization of blank pages (often gridded) through

“The practice is more along the lines of

taking a step back [and] figuring out what is meaningful to you,” Ryder Carroll said.

logging and art. The trend picked up on digital platforms, such as Pinterest and Instagram, where bullet journalists shared their creations with others.

As a result, the essence of the bullet journal’s purpose, which is to be a productive and reflective tool for one to accomplish personal goals, has at times been lost.

“At first, I kind of sat back and I was deeply honored, flattered,” Ryder Carroll, the creator of the bullet journaling

Curious to learn more about bullet journaling? Follow the inventor himself.

Curious about the bullet journaler mentioned in the story? Follow here.

While your at it, why not follow 22West Media as well? :)

Instagram: @rydercarroll Twitter: @rydercarroll Website: bulletjournal.com

Instagram: @kaylasbullet Facebook: facebook.com/kaylasbullet Instagram: @olivernha

Instagram: @22westlb Twitter: @22westlb Website: 22westmedia.com

system, said about the public’s response.

Carroll found it wonderful that people could express their creativity through the bullet journal.

“For them, making the book significantly more elaborate was their way of connecting with what mattered to them,” he said. “You know, maybe they lived really uncreative lives and this is like the one place they can unwind [and] explore their creativity in some way.

Maybe it’s through lettering or illustration.

It’s also a way for them to declutter their mind and tackle their anxiety.”

However, Carroll is concerned about one thing. He noticed how the elaborate designs have prevented individuals from bullet journaling because they don’t feel up to par in their creative abilities.

“They [new bullet journalists] start to mimic what they see, and when they fall short, they beat themselves up and that’s really not the point,” he said.

Hathaway can vouch for this because she too found herself comparing her art to that of popular bullet journalists.

“She [Feebujo] gets paid to do stuff,” Hathaway said about the popular figure who works with Leitrim, a bullet journal company. “She just had her art on the cover of a limited edition book and I’m like, ‘Well, I’m never going to

get there and that’s really upsetting.’”

Hathaway said to be wary of this, yet also realize that looking up to popular bullet journalists is not necessarily wrong if the intention is to be inspired to improve one’s bullet journal.

Carroll shared that the bullet journal is meant to evolve with the person who is using it, to accommodate the person’s needs and focus on what matters to them.

In an attempt to take back the

to identify the things that are meaningful to us. The things that matter.”

Carroll launched his website several years ago to share the system with the public. It was born out of his being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder as a child. Growing up, it was difficult for him to focus and be productive.

“There weren’t a lot of resources available to me,” he said. “So, I had to develop my own and over

“Realistically, a good bullet journal is good if it’s useful,” Kayla Hathaway said. “Like, it doesn’t need to be artsy.” narrative, Carroll released a book this year called “The Bullet Journal Method.” He explained that the book is comprised of two parts: the “system” and the “practice.”

The system is how bullet journaling sets out to help a person be more productive and get things done, Carroll said.

“The practice is more along the lines of taking a step back [and] figuring out what is meaningful to you,” Carroll added.

“You know, checking in with yourself, getting into the habit of introspection and in that process essentially we start

Screenshots from Kayla Hathaway’s Instagram feed where she showcases her art and bullet journal spreads.

time I started figuring out tricks and tactics that allowed me to become more focused and more productive.”

Now hundreds, even thousands, of individuals have utilized the system to improve their lives.

For Hathaway, bullet journaling has kept her productive academically.

“It’s helped me with organization,” she continued. “Keeping on track with homework assignments.”

In the beginning of the semester, she condensed her class syllabi into

one page each. She found it convenient to have all the important dates and projects all in one place as opposed to a folder where things can go missing.

Hathaway’s personal system for bullet journaling has evolved from creating spreads on a monthly basis to now on a daily basis.

Christy Nguyen, an animation major at LBSU, also bullet journals.

Unlike Hathaway, she went from weekly spreads to bi-weekly/monthly spreads because her style of bullet journaling does not consist of extra features like habit tracking. She said she simply sets the dates and makes bullet points.

Despite her studying animation, Nguyen does not like the bullet journal for the art. For her, it’s the fact that it looks complete as opposed to a regular planner that hardly ever gets filled when it fails to accommodate her personal needs.

“You know, there’s that satisfactory feeling of looking through your whole bullet journal, like [seeing] what you’ve done so far,” Nguyen said.

When it comes down to it, Hathaway agrees that it isn’t the aesthetics that ultimately count.

“Realistically, a good bullet journal is good if it’s useful,” Hathaway said.

“Like, it doesn’t need to be artsy.”

11

IT ALL RUNS How having a nervous breakdown and being diagnosed

By Jarrod Castillo Athletics Editor

We all remember a date that, no matter how old we get, will always have a special place in our minds and hearts.

Whether it’s good or bad, the date will always remain with us.

For me, that date is October 17, 2015.

As much as I hate to sound cliché, that was the day my life changed: I had a nervous breakdown in front of my family.

To preface, up to that point, I was a nursing/biology major in order to appease my parents. Even though I greatly disliked what I was doing and my mental health was deteriorating, I kept thinking to myself that this was for my parents and once I graduated and started making money, everything would get better.

Instead, I felt like I was in a perpetual state of depression and anxiety, like being in a tunnel with no light at the end. Eventually the stress, depressive thoughts and anxiety culminated into one giant snowball of despair that collided with me on October 17, 2015.

At first, I tried fighting and pushing the thoughts away. However, like a rubber band, the harder I pulled, the stronger the resistance and return of energy would be. Afraid that I was going crazy, I eventually broke down on the way home from my mom’s graduation ceremony in Phoenix, Arizona.

12

As I lay there sobbing in the fetal position, my dad, who deals with patients with mental illnesses, tried to assess my situation as he drove home.

Suffice it to say, the next 16 hours were the longest of my life as my brain hung between life and death.

Eventually, when we got home, we made it a priority to find a psychologist who could figure out just what the hell was going on in my mind. Although I was having an atrocious experience, there was a ray of sunshine in my cloudy mind: my family got closer.

Prior to that incident, my family was fairly distant, with fights breaking out almost daily. It didn’t help that I was being forced into a career that I hated.

But I digress.

Instead of fragmenting further, everyone came together to help me fight the battles that were going on in my mind. Eventually, I was diagnosed with depression, generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

According to BeyondOCD, OCD affects about 1 in 40 adults in the United States. Additionally, a study done by the National Alliance on Mental Illness found that in 2015, 18.1 percent (42 million American adults) live with anxiety disorders.

Illustration by Tara Thomas, Art Director

IN THE FAMILY with mental illnesses changes a family’s dynamic.

Personally, I expected the depression and anxiety, but the OCD was what caught me off guard.

As I came to learn, the thoughts of despair and potentially hurting myself and others, even though I had no intention of doing so, was a symptom of OCD. These “intrusive thoughts” can also manifest themselves at other times, including when someone is in a relationship, also known as ROCD and obsessive love.

Without help, both can destroy your relationship because your mind becomes fixated on your partner.

Additionally, you become obsessed with always wanting to talk to them and end up being overbearing because you aren’t able to let them live. You can see how this is a problem and it’s something that I’m working to rectify.

Anyways, once my family found out my diagnosis, they did everything in their power to help and comfort me during my time of struggle. My parents even took days off, without pay, to try and tend to my needs.

Three years later, the bond between my family is perhaps the strongest it’s been in a long time. My family came to my aid when I needed them the most

and whenever my OCD, depression and anxiety flares up, they’re there within a moment’s notice to help.

Not only that, but my family essentially cut down on the infighting and have taken different approaches to conflict such as openly communicating what’s troubling them instead of

“I may have a triad of mental illnesses, but they will never define who I am.” bottling it in and letting it fester.

Also, they’ve been more accommodating in that they try to understand that some days, I won’t feel 100 percent and that I’m just mentally exhausted and want to stay home and try to relax, instead of doing anything.

Though I deal with my OCD, depression and anxiety on a daily basis, I will always remember October 17, 2015 as the day that my family showed me that I wasn’t alone in fighting my mental illness.

I may have a triad of mental illnesses, but they will never define who I am.

13

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND A practical guide to decluttering Story by Lola Olvera Lead Copy Editor Illustration by Nathan Xa Contributor

If you’re intrigued by an article about decluttering, chances are you really need to declutter. Not owning excess material items is one of the hallmarks of minimalism, and a healthy purge to decide on whether you subscribe to this pseudo-cult mentality or not. Owning too many things can be a hassle. The visual stimuli can distract you from other tasks, maintaining cleanliness and organization can be time-consuming and thinking about all the money you wasted on things you never even look at on a daily basis is...depressing.

I’ve decluttered to an arguably excessive degree, but ever since I began this process I’ve felt much more comfortable and motivated in my environment. Keeping only the items that I use regularly, ones that improve my quality of life, really helps me focus on the things that are important to me. I use every single thing I own and I value it more so because of that.

Having said that, decluttering is hard. It takes time and physical and mental energy, but I think the feelings of letting go and starting from scratch are worth it. Here’s a few tips to get you started: Go paperless.

Whether it’s embarrassing middle school journals or folders full of old documents, paper really accumulates. With notable exceptions, such as original copies of your birth certificate or tax returns, you could really do without tangible copies of things like receipts or fliers. Take an afternoon to sort through your paper pile, sorting out the things you want to keep.

Then scan each document and save the files on your computer or an external hard drive. You can access the documents anytime and reprint them whenever you like.

Conversely, you could try these really cool DIY projects to turn your paper memories into decoration.

Sell things.

Knowing you can get cash can often be a determining factor in whether or not you decide you want to keep something or not. Books, especially textbooks, can fetch some money on Amazon Trade-In or Book-Off. You can sell your clothes at buysell-trade stores such as Buffalo Exchange or Plato’s Closet. Open up a Mercari or Depop account, where you can sell your items easily without the hassle of sites like Amazon or eBay.

Give to others.

Take a look at some of the items you don’t use and determine if there’s someone in your life who could have a use for them.

Does your friend need a new curling iron?

Train yourself to not attach feelings and Is a classmate going to need one of your memories to objects. old textbooks for next semester? Tell your One of the hardest things is parting friends to gather their unwanted items and with items that have memories attached get together one evening for a swapathon. to them, or were gifts from someone spe- You can donate what’s left over; charities cial. But here’s the thing: the memories like Hope Services will pick up donations don’t inhabit that item. Your loved ones right from your door. do not inhabit that item, unless the item is haunted and/or an ash urn. You will still Part with gifts without guilt. retain all your memories whether you I’m among one of those people who feel own the item or not. Absolutely need it really awful giving away an item that somefor visual inspiration? Take a picture. one gifted to me. I’d be hella embarrassed if they asked about it and I didn’t have it Recycle your e-waste. anymore. But try and think of it this way: if I’m guessing I’m not the only one who someone cared about you enough to give accumulates a sad pile of broken or un- you a gift, they’d care about you enough wanted devices and electronic accesso- to respect that your life would now be imries. We know it’s not okay to throw these proved without feeling forced to own it. If items away with the other basic trash, but someone asks you what kind of gift you’d we never seem to work up the energy to like, be direct—let them know what you go recycle them at Best Buy. Do it now. really need. They’ll be so happy watching Or, mail them in. Places like Target and you genuinely enjoy and use that gift for Apple will even offer you money back for years. If you can’t think of something you recycling some of your still-working, fairly want or need, ask people to donate to a recent gadgets. good cause in your honor.

14

POET’S CORNER Who I am Poem and Image by Jireh Deng Contributor

They will all tell you something different; My father remembers me the best day I was, Strings in D-major canonizing the moment I was born.

My mother named me Jehovah Jireh, after the heavenly providing that formed me in her womb.

My aunts and uncles, they saw me grow up in the church, I was the good girl who came to all the Friday night Bible studies and Sunday messages, but couldn’t seem to stay awake through them.

My friends and my siblings will tell you I am from poetry and books.

Felled, I could show you the lines upon lines of unwritten prose ringed in my mind.

My existence is a series of seditious sacrileges.

The English nerd of two math teachers.

The questioning Christian, The heavenly providing and the damned of hell.

No one stays the same, I walk into your dictionary between the dichotomies to dismantle your definitives.

As a child, I used to think I was the antichrist, all this havoc I wreak must have a meaning.

That is my story, but I want a different one.

Maybe, it does not matter where I’m from or where I’m going or who I am.

Not a daughter. Not an answer to a prayer. Not a sinner.

Not a writer. Not a fighter. Not a battleground for you to defend your politics and your religion.

I am just a girl who is young and in love.

Candlelit under moonlight Poem and Image by John Stouras Contributor

The baggage claim scrolls through the terminal screen My foot taps as time wastes by The black bags roll through check-in Waiting for my green bag’s greeting.

I’ve been waiting for this moment, It felt like forever.

I’ve been waiting for their car, It felt like weeks.

It has changed.

The cracks on the concrete.

Gone.

The Italian restaurant on the avenue.

Gone.

But it is the same.

The candles under the moon, My family under the candlelight, Smiles that remind me of all that’s warm.

Welcome back.

15

The Grunion is a work of satire. It in no way reflects the views of 22 West Magazine or Associated Students, Inc. (blah blah blah legal shit)

The Grunion An Alternative Home for Alternative Facts since 1978

Santa’s Christmas Message to the Ladies Father Christmas is looking for his next hoe hoe hoe.

By Santa Claus It’s Christmas time, and I see how the ladies of the world love Christmas. They love the fuzzy blankets, the trees, the holiday Starbucks cups (okay, not the Republican ladies), and the Ugg boots. Keeping all this in mind, I can’t help but mention that there’s a big part of Christmas that you all seem to conveniently forget once you’re past the age of 8: me.

You know, it isn’t exactly “easy” having to live in the North Pole for hundreds of years. How many women do you think live up there, exactly? The only one shakin’ it like a rednose is Rudolph, and I can’t fuck a reindeer. And the elves? Not exactly turned on by me making them work 22-hour shifts.

It’s not like Mrs. Claus is down for any “holiday cheer,” either. There’s only so much you can do to spice up your sex life after being married for a few hundred years. I’ve decided that being tied down and having the label of “decent husband/human being” isn’t for me anymore. She doesn’t have to know. I’m tired of being seen as jolly old Saint Nick.

I’m not jolly, age is just a number, and I’m definitely no saint. ;) This isn’t to say that I’ve never stuffed someone’s stocking outside of my frozen compound. I’ve been messing around for years, but because I’m “not real,” I don’t get the reputation I deserve. The only people who appreciate me are the lonely housewives of the 16 world. Mommy was kissing

your dad in a Santa costume? No babe, that was me, and we did a lot more than just kiss.

I have to say though, after decade after decade of bringing free presents to people around the world, you would think that some of you would offer me a little bit more than just cookies on Christmas Eve. I see those videos y’all watch on the internet. You’ll offer your taxi driver a BJ for a $5 ride but I don’t get shit for that iPhone I hand delivered to you?

Take a second to think about how selfish that is. There’s no Tinder in the North Pole, so I need some

of my hoes on the naughty list to change their attitudes from GTFO to DTF. I think that a lot of you just need a change of perspective.

What does your current man have that I can’t provide for you? He works a corporate America job, is balding, and drives a Civic. What do I have going for me? I enslave employ thousands of workers singlehandedly, make billions of children happy every year and drive a MAGIC SLED. To all of the ladies with the word “wanderlust” in your Instagram bio, how about you save some money on airfare and hop in

Santa’s whip so I can take you to suck on my candy cane anywhere in the world? Daddy Santa always foots the bill.

I mean, I’m in no way trying to say that I’m looking for Mrs. Claus #2. Commitment is for beta boys, and I’m not down to spend the extra money on alimony. Why can’t we just enjoy a nice night together and go our separate ways? Let’s not be selfish, ladies, there’s plenty of Santa to go around. This is why I don’t go after Jewish girls, because they expect you to come for eight days instead of just one, which is just selfish. The spirit of Christmas is sharing and giving to your fellow man, so enjoy our few minutes together, then be sure to give your hot sister my phone number after we’re done.

Like any man in power, I like to manipulate my standing in society in order to receive affection I was deprived of as a child. I think after all the years of Christmas joy I brought to you in your youth, it’s time to let me bring you some more in adulthood. The elves can’t make the kind of thing that I’m gonna bring you this year. Seeing when you’re sleeping and knowing when “you up” has its benefits. Luckily for some of you, being on the naughty list gets you a lot more than coal, believe me.

If this interests any of you reading, hit me up. I’d love to come down your chimney in more ways than one...