The Order ( Movie Review)

"The Order" provides the spectator with a compelling criminal thriller experience. Based on the nonfiction book "The Silent Brotherhood," the film directed by Justin Kurzel appears to have displayed genuine events of the time in a simple yet effective manner.

 The Order

This film covers the story of "The Order", a white supremacist organisation led by Bob Mathews that commits several violent robberies in the Pacific Northwest in the early 1980s. An FBI agent is after them and will do whatever it takes to get Bob and others in custody.

The Cast

The film stars Jude Law as FBI agent Terry Husk and Nicholas Hoult as Robert Jay Mathews, the leader of the white supremacist group, "The Order". Tye Sheridan, Jurnee Smollett, Alison Oliver, and Marc Maron round out the supporting cast.

The Plot

The film is set in 1983 and follows veteran FBI agent Terry Husk as he reopens a field office in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Struggling to cope with his past life, he quickly becomes involved in the case of Bob Mathews and his white supremacist organization, "The Order". The group was involved with bank robberies and other violent crimes to support their objective of destroying the federal government and sparking a race war. The film chronicles the developing struggle between Husk and Mathews, delving into topics of fanaticism, violence, and the dangers of hate ideology.

Why I'm Impressed

Jude Law delivers a solid performance, and Nicholas Hoult does justice to his character. The film has various thought-provoking scenes and dialogue that lasts with you for long. The best part is the well-choreographed action sequences that are not showy. The film very tactfully handles the relevant and intense themes related to white supremacy, domestic terrorism, and American violence. 

The Judgement

"The Order" (2024) is a fantastic crime thriller that tackles difficult subject matter with intensity and skill. Strong performances, gripping plots, and thought-provoking themes make it a worthwhile watch. It's a film that stays with you and prompts reflection on the dangers of extremism.

Image: Google Images

Gold has meant wealth, stability, and security for hundreds of years. People have thought of it as a safe bet for investment when the economy looks shaky. But does this old idea still make sense in today's tricky money world? As someone who invests, you might be shocked to learn that keeping gold in your investments could be riskier than you think.

The Golden Gamble: Why Holding Gold Today Might Be Riskier Than You Think

Personal anecdote: A buddy of mine put a lot of money into gold back in 2012, thinking it was the safest bet around. Over the next 4 years, he watched helplessly as the price fell by almost 17%, erasing a big chunk of his savings. In the same way, gold prices took an even sharper dive , dropping about 20% between 1996 and 1998.

This volatility isn't just a short-term concern. The long-term performance of gold can be equally unpredictable, making it a risky asset for retirement planning or other long-term financial goals. 

The Volatile Nature of Gold: A Rollercoaster Ride for Your Wealth

Picture this: You're holding a shiny gold bar, feeling how heavy it is and looking at how it shines. It's stood for wealth for thousands of years, but in today's complicated money world, that bar might carry more risk than you'd guess. Let's dive into the reasons underneath.

Economic Factors: When Gold Loses Its Shine

Gold's performance is intricately linked to various economic factors, many of which are beyond an individual investor's control or understanding. Here are some key considerations:

ØInterest Rates: When interest rates rise, gold often becomes less attractive as an investment. Why? Because it doesn't generate income, making interest-bearing assets more appealing.

ØCurrency Fluctuations: Gold prices are typically quoted in US dollars. A strong dollar can make gold more expensive for international buyers, potentially dampening demand and prices.

ØGeopolitical Instability: A Double-Edged Sword

While geopolitical tensions can initially drive up gold prices as investors seek safe havens, prolonged instability can have unexpected consequences.

ØMarket manipulation: by state actors or disruptions in gold mining and transportation.

These factors can lead to rapid and unpredictable price swings, turning your "safe" investment into a high-stakes gamble.

The Hidden Dangers: Storage and Security Issues

Owning physical gold isn't as simple as keeping it in your sock drawer. Proper storage and security come with significant costs and risks:

ØStorage Fees: Professional storage facilities (banks) charge annual fees that can eat into your investment returns.

ØInsurance Costs: Properly insuring your gold adds another layer of cost to your investment.

ØSecurity Risks: Storing gold at home? You might be putting yourself at risk of theft or even personal harm.

"I never realized how paranoid I'd become until I started hiding gold coins around my house," joked Rahul, a long-time gold investor. "It's like living in a treasure hunt, except I'm both the pirate and the map!"

Given these risks, it's worth considering alternatives that might offer more stability and growth potential:

ØDiversified ETFs: Offer exposure to multiple assets, reducing overall risk.

ØReal Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Provide income and potential appreciation with lower volatility.

ØBlue-chip Stocks: Established companies with a history of stable returns and dividends.

The Bottom Line: All That Glitters Is Not (Always) Gold

Although gold has historically been seen as a safe haven asset, its reputation has changed due to changing investment preferences and the state of the economy. A dilemma is created by central banks' heightened interest as a result of the unstable political climate and the drop in retail demand. In my opinion, the storm is approaching so it is best to hold on the gold asset that you presently have and desist from nudging into it fresh.

Image Courtesy: Google, naapkin.ai

Just a thought

Just a thought

If life is as wonderful as it has been since I was a youngster, there are many things you haven't seen. 

As you grow old, you start meeting individuals who are/were in more challenging circumstances than you are, and you gradually discover stuff. 

You begin to absorb energy or, if I may use that term, learn new things, mostly negative both from your own and strangers.

People may dislike you for reasons that are beyond your control or for no apparent reason at all. You must, however, accept it.

Through time and experience, I've learned that everyone has a light within them. Thanks to that light, individuals may look into the hearts of others.

However, there are many who have lost it, becoming impulsive, egotistical, and vicious. These people perceive darkness in others because they themselves are filled with hate.

Don't be fooled, these fellows despise everyone and you are merely in their line of fire. So chill. 

Remember they are what they are because of their miserable life or how they have experienced or interpreted it. In my view, to get over such people if it is difficult to delete from your life, all one has to do is shine their lights to win.

It's hard but only prudent way.

I have seen how much hate people are capable of. And how much courage it takes to be kind. 

It is the light in the darkness that we must strive for. I have my light in Aaruni. The force that soaked my sorrows and much more.

Even today that light burns bright. All I have to do is to close my eyes and magic happens.

May you all find yours.

Is there any benefit to working on a time machine? Is it really necessary to beat the clock, or is just respecting the passing minutes and recognizing our limitations the key to happiness?

The Time Machine

 

Do you believe in time travel? Have you experienced it or known someone who claims to have it? Have you seen the time machine? 

 

You could think I'm insane to talk about such a topic. Time travel, which is still restricted to science fiction, is an unachievable goal. It's an illusion, a mirage that distracts us from the richness of the present moment. 

 

However, my experience and answer to time travel are different. What if I tell you I am an exception and regularly experience time travelling?

My Experience

For a long time, I have had the energy and capacity to indulge in time travel. Yes, really. Come on. You think it is a fluke, but no, it is the most honest confession I am making. 

I have indulged in time travelling for years and have recently stopped it. 

If you think I am lying, then read on.

 

 

You see, I have this tremendous power to travel in time :). I can go to any place or moment I like or dislike. There are times when, in 2024, I can visit my friends from my school days who studied with me in the late 1990s. Or even better, I can travel in time (I'm not sure about the time-zone) but sometime in the future and try to resolve issues that may emerge. 

Do you think I am joking? NO. Do you think it is funny? Seriously, not. 

The truth is, I have wasted lots of time hallucinating. I have wasted too much time thinking of adverse events or correcting the wrongs in my life by thinking about them. For instance, I would often find myself replaying a conversation from the past, trying to come up with the perfect response, only to realize that it was a complete waste of  energy. I could have used that time to focus on my present tasks or plan for my future goals

What I Have Understood About Time?

Truth is, we all have this dirty habit of worrying about things/events that may or may not happen in the future. Try to correct or rephrase your words of the past that may or may not impact you today or change the future.

Sit with any youth in your family; he is big on dreams. His fantasies will show. Sit with an elder, and he will tell you stories from the past. He may discuss the mistakes committed, which he will correct or change if given a chance. He may tell you the decisions that went wrong.

So what does it mean?

It means we are all blessed with our own time machine, our mind. It is the most powerful processor and unbelievably efficient. All you have to do is take the matter into your own hands and have free time to dwell on your subject. 

 

 

Lately, I have realized that our biggest boon, our mind, is also our biggest enemy. Most of our struggles and miseries somehow echo in our minds. The mind is a powerful machine, and overthinking kills our ambitions, happiness, and sometimes our lives. 

What One Should Do?

Travelling to the future and hallucinating won't help the cause. Similarly, the past is just a reflection. You can't be in the past; it's gone, not coming back unless, of course, you don't want to relive the moment in your mind. 

 

 

My theory is that you shouldn't waste your energy travelling to the past or worrying about the future. Live in the present and give it your best shot. Embrace the present moment, and you'll find the inspiration and motivation you need to achieve your goals. You have the power to control your thoughts and focus on the present.

By focusing on the present, you can make the most of your current opportunities and set a strong foundation for your future success.

Let me try to explain the concept.

Have you seen a baby? He knows nothing about the past and has no worries about the future. He is the most adorable creature on earth because he lives in the present. 

He cries occasionally, laughs full-time, and enchants the whole surrounding. Even when no one is around, he is content and full of life, with bright eyes that are extraordinarily beautiful. He will cry when the time comes or if the need arises, but he never wastes a minute thinking about it.

 

 

My Final Take 

Time travel is a waste of energy and must be avoided at all costs. Living in the present is the cure. Your aspirations, relationships, or anything else under the sun require your efforts today. Thinking or overthinking will keep the result the same. 

Life is too short to waste on overthinking. Time travel is an illusion, so it is best left to experts to make a machine that will one day help us get past the limits of time. But until then, your time and energy mustn't be wasted on frivolous thoughts. Be in the present and work for the future, not live in the future, my friends. Planning for the future is important, but living in the future, constantly worrying about what's to come, is not productive.

 

Image Courtesy: Google Images

The Blue Umbrella (Book Review)

The Blue Umbrella is a simple, pleasing children's story that conveys the beauty and innocence of childhood in a charming and compelling way.

 

The Blue Umbrella

 

Ruskin Bond's novel The Blue Umbrella is a fictional short story. This is the second book in a row that I have read by Ruskin. Why did I read it? After all, it is a children's book. Well, there are occasions when reading stories is as beneficial as meditating. I wish I could have read the book to my little Aaruni, but life is rough.

 

 

Anyway, let's get back to the book review.

 

 

Story - The Blue Umbrella

The plot revolves around Biniya, who lives in a tiny village in the Himalayan foothills with her brother Vijay and mother. Despite their financial constraints, Biniya's family had enough land to grow the food they needed to go through the year.

In addition to attending school, Biniya is also responsible for grazing cows in the local woodlands in the hills. On one such day, she stumbled across a bunch of visitors vacationing in the hills. Biniya, wearing her lucky charm (Leopard nail pendant), watched well-off visitors sing and have a good time from a distance. 

 

 

But why did Biniya get stuck there? A beautiful blue silk umbrella of a tourist charmed Biniya. Fascinated, Biniya soon traded her lucky charm for the umbrella. 

The most valued item of Biniya became a source of desire and jealousy for the whole town. Ram Bharosa, the owner of the local tea shop where Biniya and Vijay go for toffees or sweets when they have extra cash, is so fascinated by her valued gift that he will go to any length to obtain it.

 

 

The tale soon turned ugly when Ram Bharosa devised a wicked plan to get the umbrella. I wish to tell more but then you may lose interest in reading so leaving it here )).

The characters were simple, and the story was perfectly created, displaying an excellent level of wordsmithing skill. The story was crafted meticulously, speaking highly of Ruskin Bond's ability to charm us. 

Verdict

 

What and how the tale unfolds makes it a must-read for your kids. The storyline is easy, and the characters are innocent. Ruskin does his best to play with the characters and describe the beauty of Dehra. Moreover, the book subtly teaches children about the consequences of jealousy and the value of simplicity. So, what's holding you back?

 

Photo Courtesy: Google Images