Au Cochonnet Marin

Society often avoids discussions about death, treating it as a taboo unfit for polite conversation. Yet, like many taboos, this aversion is profoundly misguided. Death, one of life’s certainties, deserves open dialogue, public debate, and, ultimately, personal autonomy. No one but the individual directly involved should hold the final say in matters of their mortality.

The specter of death looms universally. It is a natural process culminating in “the permanent ending of vital processes in a cell or tissue.” Final and irreversible. Yet, in most cases, this monumental decision is not left to the individual but dictated by conservative authorities averse to change.

While some fear death itself, many more dread the slow, agonizing process of dying—particularly when accompanied by pain or debilitating conditions.

Death is deeply personal. The decision of how and when it occurs should rest solely with the person involved. It’s a matter of agency over one’s body—a right that is gradually, though far too slowly, gaining recognition through the legalization of “assisted dying” in some parts of the world. But how long will it take before this right is universally accepted?

The question is urgent, especially given the state of deeply politicized judicial systems that may be ill-equipped to resolve such a nuanced, deeply human issue. As Napoleon Bonaparte aptly said, “Nothing is more difficult, and therefore more precious, than to be able to decide.”

In life, the mind governs the body, but when the body’s deterioration overwhelms the mind, it’s often time to let go. No elderly person desires to endure life tethered to machines, tubes protruding from every direction.

And what is the glory of reaching 100? While some embrace it with zest—like the centenarian who celebrated with a parachute jump—others may prefer to bow out quietly. Both choices are valid, as they stem from the individual’s unique perspective.

Thinking about death is not morbid; it is practical. It’s a decision that must be considered carefully while one still can choose. Assisted dying is as essential as the right to planned parenthood—both choices are rooted in autonomy and dignity.

Support this right before it becomes a casualty of regressive policies. A society that values individual freedom must ensure that this ultimate choice remains in the hands of the one who matters most—the person facing the end of their journey.

Alain

Why have Americans rejected two intelligent, capable women running for president in consecutive elections? It’s difficult to accept, particularly because both women displayed superior intellect and agility—qualities that Donald Trump lacks. And he is by no stretch of the imagination, no Demosthenes…

 Winston Churchill, one of the wittiest figures in history, famously said:
“The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.”

That sentiment feels all too relevant here.

 Ask a Trump supporter why he/she voted for him, and you’re likely to hear responses like, “He knows what he’s doing. “That’s what frightens me most—how easily surface-level rhetoric can overshadow substance.

 I vividly recall the first presidential debate in 2016, when Hillary Clinton went head-to-head with Donald Trump. She presented herself as composed, informed, and capable, while Trump appeared erratic and ill-prepared. I went to bed that night confident Hillary had secured the presidency. But when the dust settled, Americans chose Trump. The consequences of that decision have felt nothing short of Vader-like.

Then came 2024, with Kamala Harris taking her turn in the spotlight. After watching her debate, I was equally hopeful—surely, this was the moment America would finally elect a woman president, as so many progressive, advanced nations have already done.

But no. Once again, voters handed victory to a crude, divisive figure; a man who was neither extraordinary nor particularly articulate. It made me reflect on a belief I held in my younger, more idealistic days: that brains would ultimately triumph over brutish force. How wrong I was.

Trump offered no compelling political arguments, no real vision to sway skeptics. Yet he succeeded. Why? Both Clinton and Harris failed to deliver the kind of sharp, devastating retort that can neutralize a bully and expose his ineptitude—something akin to Lloyd Bentsen’s legendary zinger:

“I served with Jack Kennedy. I knew Jack Kennedy. Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy.”

The absence of such a moment left their opponents unchecked, and the public swayed. Are Americans misogynistic? Sadly, the evidence suggests they might be, at least to a degree. Gender bias continues in many parts of the world to influence how leaders are perceived and judged.

 “Americans, it is said, will put up with anything, provided it doesn’t block traffic.”

And that perhaps explains the results: too many voters seem to prefer tradition to progress.

Alain

I recently acquired a new iPhone—a compact powerhouse brimming with features. It is loaded with bells and whistles that, while not essential, are undeniably attractive to the younger set.

In the early days, cordless phones were simple but clunky, designed with a single purpose: efficient communication. The focus was on function, not flair. That’s all changed. Today’s iPhones are sleek, packed with tech, and look like they were designed by nerds… for nerds.

A modern smartphone feels like a “challenge the beast, and it will answer” machine. Fry an egg? Maybe not quite, but it can do almost anything you can imagine, from navigating your day to detonating an explosive device.

But to fully appreciate this technology, you need the “keys to the kingdom.” And only nerds (and underage kids) seem to be able to ride this wild beast.

“The wonderful thing with nerds is that they’re enthusiasts. Not having a life means you get to love things with a passion, and nobody bothers you about it.” — John Burnside

The iPhone 16 is so advanced it is almost intimidating. And don’t think you can just take it out of the box and go. Nenni ma mie! You’ll need to study the manual, and the instructions are more complex than highway regulations.

And it’s not just about convenience; smartphones can also be a liability. They contain your entire life, and if someone—whether it’s the police, your wife, or your mistress decides to look through it, you might have more to worry about than you thought.

I’m not saying the iPhone is without value. Far from it. But its potential for trouble can sometimes outweigh its benefits. With a smartphone, your location is always traceable, and if you’re ever caught in a dubious situation, the consequences could be significant.

This is why some people now juggle multiple phones—to keep up with the demands of their bosses, partners, and even a paramour or two.

“Don’t we all know why nerds do what they do? To get money, which leads to popularity, which leads to girls.” — Zadie Smith

At the end of the day, isn’t that what it’s all about?

So, come over to the nerd side and show off your adventurous streak.

Alain