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90%17dSCORPIUSWANING GIBBOUSTOTAL ECLIPSE 9/7/2025
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By and By by Caamp: Guitar Chords and Lyrics - /* Top Button Container Styling */ .button-container { display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; gap: 10px; margin: 10px 0; } /* Top Button Styling */ .button-container button { padding: 10px 20px; font-size: 16px; cursor: pointer; background-color: #333; color: #fff; border: none; border-radius: 4px; text-align: center; } .button-container button:hover { background-color: #444; } /* Hide the Columns button on phones */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .toggle-button { display: none; } } /* Lyrics Container */ .lyrics-container { column-gap: 40px; max-width: 100%; transition: all 0.3s ease; } .lyrics { white-space: pre-wrap; font-family: monospace; column-count: 1; } .two-columns .lyrics { column-count: 2; } @media (max-width: 768px) { .two-columns .lyrics { column-count: 1; } } /* Bottom Button Container */ .bottom-button-container { display: flex; justify-content: center; margin: 20px 0; } /* Compressed and Centered Scrolling Widget Styling */ #adjustableWidget { position: fixed; bottom: 5px; left: 50%; transform: translateX(-50%); background-color: #f0f0f0; padding: 5px 8px; border: 1px solid #ccc; border-radius: 4px; z-index: 99999; font-size: 12px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; gap: 5px; } #adjustInput { width: 60px; padding: 2px; font-size: 12px; } #adjustNumber { width: 40px; /* About 2/3 the width of the slider */ padding: 2px; font-size: 12px; } #startScrollButton { padding: 4px 8px; background-color: #007bff; color: #fff; border: none; border-radius: 4px; cursor: pointer; font-size: 12px; } Loading… Columns Capo 2 [Intro] G G [Verse 1] G D Driving through West Virginia Em C And I've seldom been thinner G D With that chip on my shoulder Em C And this past year I got so much older [Instrumental] G D Em C [Verse 2] G D Looking back over my life Em C Spent the most of it tongue-tied G D And I wish I'd had more time Em C Listening to you speak your mind [Chorus] G Now I'm thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force [Instrumental] G D Em C x2 [Verse 3] G D Drinking coffee black as iron Em C And I couldn't be much higher G D Without falling out of my chair Em C I've been so numb for so many years [Chorus] G Now I'm thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force [Bridge] Am D And it's so easy G To be blinded by the light Em To feel lonely in the night Am D And it's blowing in the breeze, babe G I got dust in my eyes Em And rust in my mind Am I'll be home come next spring D Won't you say you love me later G G By and by [Instrumental] Am D G Em Am D G G [Verse 4] G D Looking back over my life Em C Spent the most of it tongue-tied G D Pulling my belt tight Em C It's just me and the stars tonight G D Two fingers and a tight line Em C Keep my head above the alpine G D Just wish I'd spent more time Em C Listening to her speak her mind [Chorus] G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G Thinking 'bout her every day D On my mind atypical way Em C Are you a life force G For me [Outro] (G) D Em C G D Em C G Random Song // Initialize YouTube Players with loading logic function onYouTubeIframeAPIReady() { player = new YT.Player('youtube-player', { height: '0', width: '0', videoId: 'wo4HVz8aWXE', // Audio Track playerVars: { autoplay: 0, controls: 0, playsinline: 1 }, events: { 'onReady': function() { document.getElementById('youtubeToggleButton').textContent = "Audio"; } } }); karaokePlayer = new YT.Player('karaoke-player', { height: '0', width: '0', videoId: '', // Karaoke Track playerVars: { autoplay: 0, controls: 0, playsinline: 1 }, events: { 'onReady': function() { document.getElementById('karaokeToggleButton').textContent = "Karaoke"; } } }); } const toggleButton = document.getElementById('toggleButton'); const youtubeToggleButton = document.getElementById('youtubeToggleButton'); const karaokeToggleButton = document.getElementById('karaokeToggleButton'); const lyricsContainer = document.getElementById('lyricsContainer'); // Toggle columns for lyrics when the Columns button is clicked. toggleButton.addEventListener('click', () => { lyricsContainer.classList.toggle('two-columns'); }); function stopAllPlayback() { if (player.getPlayerState() === YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { player.pauseVideo(); youtubeToggleButton.textContent = "Audio"; } if (karaokePlayer.getPlayerState() === YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { karaokePlayer.pauseVideo(); karaokeToggleButton.textContent = "Karaoke"; } } // Audio Toggle Button youtubeToggleButton.addEventListener('click', () => { if (karaokePlayer.getPlayerState() === YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { karaokePlayer.pauseVideo(); karaokeToggleButton.textContent = "Karaoke"; } if (player.getPlayerState() !== YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { player.seekTo(0, true); player.playVideo(); youtubeToggleButton.textContent = "Stop"; } else { player.pauseVideo(); youtubeToggleButton.textContent = "Audio"; } }); // Karaoke Toggle Button karaokeToggleButton.addEventListener('click', () => { if (player.getPlayerState() === YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { player.pauseVideo(); youtubeToggleButton.textContent = "Audio"; } if (karaokePlayer.getPlayerState() !== YT.PlayerState.PLAYING) { karaokePlayer.seekTo(0, true); karaokePlayer.playVideo(); karaokeToggleButton.textContent = "Stop"; } else { karaokePlayer.pauseVideo(); karaokeToggleButton.textContent = "Karaoke"; } }); Scroll var isScrolling = false; var scrollInterval; // Manually set the default initial speed for desktop and mobile. // Change these values as needed. var DESKTOP_DEFAULT_SPEED = 50; // Example value for desktop var MOBILE_DEFAULT_SPEED = 12; // Example value for mobile // Choose the default initial speed based on the window width. var defaultSpeed = (window.innerWidth 0 && isScrolling) { window.scrollTo(0, window.scrollY + 1); } else { stopScroll(); document.getElementById('startScrollButton').textContent = 'Scroll'; } }, scrollSpeed); } function stopScroll() { isScrolling = false; clearInterval(scrollInterval); } window.addEventListener('scroll', function() { if (window.innerHeight + window.scrollY >= document.body.offsetHeight) { stopScroll(); document.getElementById('startScrollButton').textContent = 'Scroll'; } });

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April 16, 2025

Article of the Day

Ludwig van Beethoven: A Symphony of Genius and Resilience

Introduction Ludwig van Beethoven, a name that resonates with the very essence of classical music, is a towering figure in…
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Robert Augustine’s short story To Be a Man offers a profound and introspective journey into the heart of masculinity, cultural expectations, and personal growth. Set within the framework of societal norms and traditions, the narrative challenges readers to reconsider the definition of manhood and invites them to embrace a more holistic, compassionate, and self-aware understanding of what it means to be a man.

Here are the key lessons and themes from the story:


1. The Pressure of Cultural Expectations

The protagonist grapples with the weight of societal norms and cultural expectations surrounding manhood. He is constantly reminded of what a “real man” should embody—strength, bravery, stoicism, and responsibility. These expectations often feel restrictive and leave little room for individuality. Augustine’s story urges readers to critically examine these norms, encouraging a more balanced approach that honors both societal values and personal authenticity.


2. The Complexity of Masculinity

One of the central themes of the story is the complexity of masculinity. The protagonist’s journey highlights that being a man isn’t about conforming to rigid stereotypes of dominance or aggression. Instead, true masculinity lies in qualities like integrity, compassion, and self-awareness. Augustine paints a picture of manhood as multifaceted, reminding readers that masculinity is not one-size-fits-all but deeply personal and diverse.


3. The Role of Personal Responsibility

A pivotal lesson in the story is the importance of personal responsibility. The protagonist learns that transitioning into manhood isn’t marked by age or physical prowess but by maturity and accountability. True growth comes from owning one’s actions and making choices rooted in wisdom and consideration. Augustine emphasizes that manhood is less about external markers and more about internal growth and responsibility.


4. Emotional Vulnerability is Not a Weakness

In a world that often equates masculinity with emotional suppression, Augustine’s story boldly challenges this notion. The protagonist discovers that emotional openness and vulnerability are essential aspects of maturity. By expressing emotions and empathizing with others, he builds deeper connections and fosters personal growth. The narrative reframes vulnerability as a strength, dismantling the harmful stereotype that men must always hide their feelings.


5. The Influence of Mentors

The presence of mentors—be they fathers, elders, or community leaders—plays a crucial role in the protagonist’s journey. These figures serve as guides, offering wisdom, support, and life lessons that shape his understanding of manhood. Augustine highlights the value of mentorship in fostering growth, teaching readers that guidance from others is an integral part of the transition into adulthood.


6. Defining Your Own Identity

A core message of To Be a Man is the importance of self-discovery and authenticity. The protagonist learns to define manhood on his own terms rather than conforming to external standards. This theme encourages readers to reflect on their own values and live in alignment with them, demonstrating that true maturity comes from the courage to live authentically and embrace one’s unique identity.


7. Growth Through Challenges

The protagonist’s path is marked by challenges that test his values, resilience, and character. These moments of struggle are pivotal in shaping his understanding of himself and the world. Augustine illustrates that personal growth often arises from adversity, teaching readers that challenges are not obstacles to avoid but opportunities to learn and evolve.


Conclusion

To Be a Man by Robert Augustine is a compelling exploration of masculinity, identity, and personal growth. The story transcends traditional notions of manhood, urging readers to embrace a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of what it means to be a man. By emphasizing qualities like emotional vulnerability, personal responsibility, and self-discovery, Augustine challenges outdated stereotypes and inspires readers to forge their own path to maturity.

This short story is a timely reminder that the journey to manhood—or any form of self-actualization—is not about adhering to societal molds but about embracing one’s complexity, authenticity, and humanity.

4o


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