Curated Collection #146: A Selection of Engaging Stories
Written on
Dear Readers and Writers,
We trust you enjoyed your weekend. Today, we've gathered a small selection of captivating stories from our publications to offer you a taste of what’s available. Your encouraging feedback on our previous collections and the valuable contributions of our creative writers is greatly appreciated.
ILLUMINATION Integrated Publications welcomes writers at all levels, from novices to seasoned professionals, collaborating to create delightful reading experiences. We extend our gratitude to over 19,000 contributors who choose our platform to share their stories, bringing joy to our readers.
To keep our writers and readers informed, we've implemented an AI-generated content policy and launched a new publication designed to assist writers using AI tools for content creation. We encourage you to review this policy, as it is crucial for those utilizing AI software.
Our readers have expressed a preference for non-AI-generated content, prompting us to establish a new publication named the Lampshade of Illumination. If you’re interested in joining, please submit your Medium ID along with a comment saying “Please add me to Lampshade” in our writer registration form. All publication rules apply here, so please familiarize yourself with the onboarding materials, particularly regarding photo usage.
Recently, we celebrated the third anniversary of Illumination, which was founded by Dr. Mehmet Yildiz on March 19, 2020. Our editor, Aiden, has compiled some remarkable stories and created a short YouTube video for our community.
My Tributes to Illumination’s 3rd Anniversary
This unique publication has been successfully serving writers and readers for 1,095 days.
ILLUMINATION-Curators have gathered engaging and informative tales from our unique publication, Illumination-Curated.
ILLUMINATION Reading Club #2: Curated articles from writers of ILLUMINATION Integrated Publications for enthusiastic readers.
Our aim in creating these collections is to provide readers with diverse options while supporting writers in expanding their audience by connecting them with eager readers on Medium and beyond.
Here is the latest collection from the ILLUMINATION Amplifiers:
Hand-Picked Articles — 2023 #28
Selected by the content curators of ILLUMINATION Integrated Publications for avid readers.
We recently shared our March newsletter. Our team works diligently to highlight the outstanding stories from our inspiring writers. Well-crafted narratives consistently find new audiences through our publications. We will keep you updated next week.
If you missed our last three collections, you can find the links here: Curated Collection #138, Curated Collection #137, Curated Collection #136.
You can also check out other collections you may have missed:
Sample collections by ILLUMINATION main: - Curated Collection #138 - Curated Collection #137 - Curated Collection #136 - Curated Collection #133 - Curated Collection #132 - Curated Collection #131 - Curated Collection #130 - Curated Collection #129 - Curated Collection #128
Sample collections by ILLUMINATION-Curator: - ILLUMINATION Reading Club - Curated Book Chapters of Illumination #01 - Outstanding Stories — Volume 88 - Outstanding Stories — Volume 89 - Outstanding Stories — Volume 90 - Outstanding Stories — Volume 91
Sample collections by ILLUMINATION Amplifier: - Hand-Picked Articles #190 - Hand-Picked Articles #191 - Hand-Picked Articles #192 - Hand-Picked Articles #193 - Hand-Picked Articles #194 - Hand-Picked Articles #199 - Hand-Picked Articles #200 - Hand-Picked Articles #202
This year, our team has posted 25 collections.
Other collections from various editors include: - First editorial bulletin of ILLUMINATION Videos and Podcasts publication - 10 Inspiring Stories Published on Illumination Gaming Publication - Tech Stories on Technology Hits #5 - Featured Stories from SYNERGY
We invite new contributors of all levels, from beginners to seasoned writers, to create collaborations on this platform. Beginners can enhance their skills by learning from experienced authors. We do not censor content as long as it adheres to Medium’s guidelines. Our policies are as follows: - No Defamation, Discrimination, and Hate Speech Allowed - Zero Tolerance for Plagiarism on ILLUMINATION - Understanding the Importance of Image Copyrights for Writers and Editors
Dr. Mehmet Yildiz has conducted interviews with several prominent writers. The latest interview features John D. Leavy, a best-selling author with multiple publications.
Here are the last three sample interviews: - An Interview with Dr. Yogesh Haribhau Kulkarni, PhD - An Interview with Author, Raymond M.E. Aguirre - An Interview with Hakima TANTRIKA
If you are a regular contributor and wish to be featured or interviewed, please reach out to our chief editor via our Slack workspace.
Interviews with Writers of Medium
Featuring inspiring writers from ILLUMINATION.
Medium seems to be planning to monetize external views in 2023. Our editor Aiden (Illumination Gaming) shared an insightful story and created a YouTube video titled "My Perspectives on the Possible Monetization of External Views on Medium." We hope this becomes a reality in the coming year.
New Writer Communication
In response to reader feedback, we have added introductions for new writers and articles related to writing at the end of this collection. This post serves as a communication tool for both readers and writers. A key requirement for new writers is to review Master Copy: Onboarding New Writers.
Readers can search for their favorite writers using the Ctr+F function in their browser.
ILLUMINATION Integrated Publications includes: - ILLUMINATION - ILLUMINATION-Curated - ILLUMINATION’s MIRROR - ILLUMINATION Book Chapters - Technology Hits - SYNERGY - Readers Hope - Illumination on YouTube - Illumination Gaming - ILLUMINATION’s Blog - EUPHORIA (the personal publication of our chief editor)
Featured Stories from ILLUMINATION Today
This collection features valuable stories from our regular writers.
7 Longevity Patterns from the Lives of Centenarians by Dr. Mehmet Yildiz
Understanding how these patterns work and adapting them can enhance our health and longevity.
Painful Questions People Have When They Find out My Wife Is Asian by Tim Denning
“Living with and spending time among rednecks can lead to seeing different races and…”
Good News About Our Brains: We Can Physically Alter Them For The Better by David Gerken
One specific activity proves to be particularly advantageous.
I Changed My Mindset and Increased My Productivity by Brainwashing Myself by Ayodeji Awosika
Learn my strategies.
I Fear That Another Lockdown Is on the Horizon by Dr. Deborah M. Vereen
The latest data on the relentless growth of the Omicron variant is alarming.
Finding Romance in Gender-Equal Denmark by Anastasia Frugaard
Dating in a foreign land can be challenging; doing so in Scandinavia presents unique difficulties.
Language, Lies, And Hot Fresh Phrases by Christyl Rivers, PhD.
Investigate outdated metaphors and discard the ineffective ones.
Procrastination: Side Benefits and Solutions by Mark Sanford, Ph.D.
Discover an overlooked method to leverage procrastination without losing out.
The Bombed Out Ivory Towers of our Minds by Teresa D Hawkes, Ph.D.
Caution: this may be a harsh read.
The Single Best Approach When Your Narcissist Ex Wants to Be Friends by Melissa Kalt, MD
This may sound severe, but it's crucial to understand.
Got Purpose? by Cedric Johnson, PhD
Is there a singular life path for us? Where does this idea originate?
Co-inky-dink I say by Carolyn F. Chryst, Ph.D.
A reflection on destiny.
Certificates Of Merit Should Be Earned And Not Demanded by Dr. Preeti Singh
A well-earned certificate holds significant value.
The Disruption Of The Pharma Industry By Emerging Disruptive Technologies by Dr. ADAM TABRIZ
A look into the potential of precision medicine in the pharmaceutical sector.
The Heart of the Matter by Qadir Abdus-Sabur, Ph.D.
Exploring the gateway to our minds.
How Can AI Help Small Businesses? by M Mahfujur Rahman, PhD
AI has the potential to revolutionize your business.
My Noble Chariot. by Dr. John Frederick Rose
A whimsical take on riding off to war from a local shopping mall.
The Essential Missing Piece Of Great Leadership Is The Use Of The Sauna by Jussi Luukkonen, MBA
Warning: this story contains strong language and nudity.
Mindful Interpersonal Dynamics by Rev. Sheri Heller, LCSW
The advantages of having honorable engagement rules.
The More a Person Practices Self-awareness the More Attractive They Are by Jessica Lynn
Three skills to develop for improved self-awareness.
How I Used the Oldest Trick in the Book to Get 100,000 Views in 30 Days by Rui Alves
Last month, I embarked on a 30-day writing challenge to reach a new milestone; here’s what I discovered.
Even Major Game Developers Are Using AI Tools by Aiden (Illumination Gaming)
Ubisoft is developing an AI Ghostwriter for crafting game narratives.
Your Body and Brain Do Not Need Whole Grains, Carbohydrates, And Fiber — Stop Believing The Scams by Rob Hourmont
You’ve been misled into thinking grains, carbs, and fiber are beneficial when they are not.
Start Eating These Foods to Improve Your Sperm Count & Motility by Ange Dim
If you and your partner are hoping to start a family, consider your diet.
Don’t We Hear that this isn’t Happening? by Pam Winter
“California school district is covertly promoting sexual orientation to third graders in public schools without parental knowledge.”
How Writers and Bloggers Transition to Become Published Authors by ILLUMINATION-Curator
An interview with Dr. Mehmet Yildiz, Chief Editor of Illumination Integrated Publications, offering insights into…
Travel, Crime-fighting, History, Gods, and IQ by Pascal
Learn and enjoy the world of French-language comic books.
Elon Musk and the Deal Of Success by Prasanniya
Success is not as simple as his tweets suggest.
I Became a Top Writer in 3 Topics But Haven’t Got Any Benefits Yet by Aiden (Illumination Gaming)
What else is needed to gain internal views on Medium?
Freelance Writing — 35 Writing Calls For Submissions (as of 04/25/22) by Pamela Kazmierczak
Here are the latest calls for submission, pitches, and available writing opportunities.
Enjoy the Free Gifts Life Has to Offer by Debbie’s Reflection
I never valued it as I should have.
The Simplest and Most Satisfying Cure for Loneliness by Zeenat Merchant Syal, M.A, M.Sc
Learning to embrace loneliness positively and thrive in solitude.
5 Subtle Habits of Highly Unproductive Minds by Rami Dhanoa
Revitalize your workflow.
The Dark Side of Success: Toxic Achievement and 3 Ways To Conquer It by Roxy Wright
A college lesson taught me the feeling of never being good enough.
A Day in the Life of an Editor by Betsy Ramser Jaime
What it truly means to work full-time as an editor.
Will Elon Musk Take Control of Our Minds after Buying Twitter for $44 billion? by S M Mamunur Rahman
This unpredictable genius is set to acquire Twitter for better or worse.
How to Cancel Christmas Without Feeling Scrooged by Eira Braun-Labossiere
Celebrating the holidays in 2020 style.
Lady Liberty’s Me Too Moment: The Trump Dump by Lester Golden
But her reality TV ex still lingers.
The Poison of Conspiracy by Britni Pepper
“They” are not revealing the truth.
I Traded My Car for A Plane Ticket To Alaska by Emily Kingsley
It was a great car, but sometimes you need to make sacrifices.
To That One Guy:
A Haiku.
I Want My Shot by Vanessa Robinson
The scientists can't get the COVID-19 vaccine to me fast enough.
Way Too Many Writers Make It Too Easy for Readers to Click Out of Their Articles by Boateng Sekyere
Because they overlook these simple truths.
Lament For a Meadow by Deborah Barchi
A mix of sadness and gratitude for a disappearing dream field.
Why Gary Vaynerchuk is Impacting Every 17 to 24-Year-Old by Jordan Mendiola
Young, ambitious adults are drawn to Gary's brutally honest motivation.
Dear President-elect and Vice President-elect: The Bar Has Been Set High by Daniella Mini
Please, don’t disappoint the voters.
A Card Deck Landscape Triggers Stories by Jean Carfantan
How cards reveal souvenirs from an unknown dimension.
Americans: Masturbation Isn’t A Solution to Tax Season by Victor Cardenas
Say no to distractions and embrace a growth mindset—at least temporarily.
A Dark Comedy by Harry Hogg
Cybil chews on a green chili pepper.
It’s the Journey Not the Destination That Matters — Featured Writers by John Cunningham
The 3 X 3.
The Ultimate “100 Books To Read Before You Die List” by Jose Luis Ontanon Nunez
Compiled from 50 sites and over 6,000 references.
Twitter Electric by Bob Metivier
He isn’t considering taking it public.
Find Your Passion Through Self-Exploration by Mukundarajan V N
Detours can lead you to the work that suits you best.
The Key Elements of Narrative Genres In Fictions by Joseph Godwin
Each writer has a unique approach to storytelling.
Live Earth Friendly and See How Deeply Connected to Nature You Become by Bobbi Lynn Gibson-Educator (Retired)
Seize the opportunity to experiment with eco-friendly practices and deepen your connection with nature.
Discover Your Imaginative Underworld by Carel Kolchinski
The importance of maintaining a dream journal.
9 Quotes You Can Use in Team Meetings for Bullshit Bingo by Daniel Hövermann
#2 Borrow a hammer to a child, and everything looks like a nail.
Fish-bone in Her Gums by Roopa Vikesh
It wasn’t severe enough to make her a vegetarian.
My Dog Stops at Intersections to Observe — Do the Same for Next Level Entrepreneurship by Joseph Seifert
Not literally, but there’s a deeper message here.
The Problem With How We Identify the True Covid-19 Death Rate by David Mokotoff
The infection rate far exceeds the case rate, and which one is used to calculate fatality rates is crucial.
How It Feels To Be Diagnosed With Autism (After Self-Diagnosing Two Years Ago!) by Catherine Londero
I realized I needed to reveal all the aspects of myself that I believed would lead to trouble.
Can’t Buy a Hat by Douglas Pilarski
-Blues lyric.
7 Startup Perks You Will Love by Josep Ferrer
And the main reasons you should consider working for a startup.
OneCoin — The $4 Billion Scam by Jason Ward
The story of one of the largest Ponzi schemes in history.
What’s Next for the Tourist Industry? Is This the End of Mickey Mouse? by Gayle Kurtzer-Meyers
The financial repercussions of tourism during a pandemic.
Sex and Immorality — Since When Did Humanity Acquire a Sense of Morality? by Christina Sponias
History indicates that if everything relied solely on humanity, we would never grasp the essence of morality.
10 Haiku in October by Sean Zhai