a burgundy zine

Tag: personal

Bug’s Philosophy: Adulthood

As of today, I have legally been an adult for two years — but it wasn’t until recently that I finally began to feel like an adult.

Despite being a junior in college, working multiple jobs, paying taxes, taking public transportation into the city on my own (gasp), living with my partner, having six credit cards, and a number of other things, I still felt very much as if I was waiting for some anime-esque magical girl transformation into adulthood.

So… when was that defining moment? Was a Descartesian descent into quarantine madness and introspection?

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3 Years

Happy “three years of knowing you” anniversary, my honey darling. Thank you for being there for me through everything… Even my more questionable fashion choices.

I couldn’t ask for a better partner in life.

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Bug’s Philosophy: What Makes a Truly Great Artist?

A significant portion of my adolescence was spent binge-watching speed art videos and tutorials. I gushed over Instagram artists, salivating at the idea of trading my hands for theirs — although trading brains would be more logical since creativity has a neurological basis.

Then, it finally dawned on me the other day. There’s an unspoken dichotomy between the hallmarks of a great artist and the skill level of a talented artist.

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Bug’s Philosophy: Haircuts, Identity, and Validation

As silly and as shallow as it may sound, a rockin’ haircut is more than just a confidence booster; it can validate your identity.

We all know what it’s like to emerge from under a sheen salon cape feeling rejuvenated — or completely crushed. The way 100,000 follicles that sprout from our scalp shape our face wields such overwhelming power over our self-esteem.

And yet, it’s just hair. You can shave it all off and it’ll grow back with the utmost amnesty. The beauty of a great haircut is ephemeral, the heartbreak of a botched cut is fleeting.

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Seeking Healthcare Treatment During a Pandemic

Since the dawn of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States, the Centers For Disease Prevention and Control has reported a 42 percent decrease in emergency room visits for non-COVID-19 related reasons.

But, people don’t just stop having emergencies, do they? Not likely.

Even as some states inch their way towards the green phase, a recent Primary Care Collaborative survey reports face-to-face doctor’s appointments are still 50 percent below their previous volume.

So, what’s it like to be an individual pursuing healthcare, despite a global pandemic?

In all honesty, it’s been nerve-racking for me – especially since I’m being tested for autoimmune disorders. This means I’m potentially in the high-risk category for COVID-19.

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Happy Birthday My Love 2020

(Queue intercom voice) AHEM. We’re here to interrupt your regularly scheduled Burgundy Zine content with a very special, incredibly important public service announcement:

TODAY IS MY HONEY DARLING’S BIRTHDAY!!

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Mirages

at the height of my thirst,
i tried to induce my own mirages,
eyes closed, mind picture-laiden with oasis collages,
at once, i sighed and sipped,
open-lipped,
but i still felt defeated,

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To Walk the Sea by Sally Piper

Creative writing student Sally Piper shares an imagery-driven piece inspired by a local getaway near to her heart.

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Falling Stars and Front Liners

Rip my heart out and ask me how it’s still beating,
Rip me in half and ask me how I’m still breathing,
You wouldn’t.

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