@Lixten

@Lixten 13 February 2022

A Twitter user is called *Tweep*, A Torum user is called a Lander, on Reddit they see known as Redditors... What are read.cash users known by?

@Lixten 12 February 2022

Bitcoin Cash And Things - what the heck are NFTs? ***The rise of non-fungible tokens was among the most surprising trends in the cryptocurrency market in 2021.*** ***With the growth of*** ***metaverse*** ***–which relies on non-fungible tokens in large measure–the growth of NFTs is a sure bet.*** https://read.cash/@MintDice/what-is-the-metaverse-487caad8 ***non-fungible tokens offer lucrative opportunities for investors, traders, artists, and businesses*** ***The recent rise in prominence of digital art and NFTs has created opportunities for artists to monetize their work online, and also democratize the access of fans and users to their work.*** The rise of non-fungible tokens was among the most surprising trends in the cryptocurrency market in 2021***.*** In addition to growing to a multi-billion-dollar size, NFTs were embraced by an exponentially surging number of traders, collectors, and investors, and many well-known artists, celebrities, athletes, and billionaires have launched their non-fungible tokens. Interestingly, when NFTs have started to gain traction last year, they were dismissed by many critics who viewed the assets as a simple fad fueled exclusively by hype, expecting the boom to disappear with the hype. But this seems not to be the case. While there was indeed an extraordinary amount of hype around non-fungibles, these assets definitely want to stay in the crypto market in the long run. What proves this best is that many well-known figures, billionaires, artists, and athletes have adopted them or launched their own digital collections. Combine this with the hundreds of thousands of investors and users as well as numerous businesses that have joined the NFT sector in the past few months. NFTs are non-fungible tokens...but what exactly does that mean? ***One of the most trending acronyms utilized within crypto is NFTs.*** *Image Source* https://pixabay.com/illustrations/non-fungible-token-nft-blockchain-6850539/ Like the finance industry, the cryptocurrency space is full of acronyms. From ICOs, IEOs, and IDOs to DeFi, ASICs, and AMMs, blockchain hustlers like to keep things short and sweet when discussing all the exciting topics about digital assets. However, for someone new to the industry, it can cause some headaches for beginners, especially when they come across these phrases for the first time. As a quick recap, NFTs - non-fungible tokens are rare and irreplaceable blockchain-powered digital assets that are limited in supply. While they can represent anything from art and memorabilia to in-game items and digital identity, NFTs can be easily authenticated and traced on the blockchain, offering real ownership for their holders. **Non-fungible tokens feature a wide range of benefits that can come in handy for artists, content creators, gamers, and collectors alike.** While they offer real ownership over digital items – such as memorabilia, digital identity and avatars, artwork, and in-game assets –, gamers can take advantage of the trending Play-to-Earn model to generate money by simply playing a game. Most importantly, NFTs offer an excellent way for talented artists and content creators to monetize their work. At the same time, established influencers can also leverage this opportunity to access a new revenue source. While we have mentioned how they took the digital asset market by storm last year as well as their exponentially-growing adoption and great potential, it's also crucial to understand the basics about non-fungible tokens. By heading to the links below, you will find exciting articles that will take you through the basics about NFTs. A Guide to Crypto Collectibles and Non-fungible Tokens (NFTs) https://academy.binance.com/en/articles/a-guide-to-crypto-collectibles-and-non-fungible-tokens-nfts 7 Things You Should Know About NFTs https://academy.binance.com/en/articles/7-things-you-should-know-about-nfts Top 7 NFT Use Cases https://academy.binance.com/en/articles/top-7-nft-use-cases How to Make Your Own NFTs https://academy.binance.com/en/articles/how-to-make-your-own-nfts 5 NFT Projects You Should Know https://academy.binance.com/en/articles/5-nft-projects-you-should-know *These articles are from Binance academy, my first guide to everything crypto before connecting with crypto enthusiasts on* *Torum* *and then here on read.cash.* https://www.torum.com/?referral_code=lixten **Now that you have learned the basics about NFTs from the Binance academy, it's time to read what fellow read.cash members have to say about non-fungible tokens.** To find out, take a look at the below posts: Understanding NFT - *Alexsteem* shared his review of NFT. The meaning, function and use, as well as the risks of NFTs. Click the above link to see the details of his article. https://read.cash/@alexsteem/nft-definition-functions-benefits-advantages-and-risks-eb3216c1 NFT craze and the current NFT market - Here are the highlights of *arslankhalid's* article - the current status of NFT, NFT bubble and copyright, and will the NFT bubble burst? Visit the article to learn more. https://read.cash/@arslankhalid/nft-craze-and-the-current-nft-market-f8a24fdf "NFTs are scams" or so they say - In his recent article *Crimsonowlkk* discussed the stand of two platforms Ko-fi (a platform that allows users to donate and tip creators and itch.io (a game distribution site) against NFT and their decision not to support NFT creators on their platforms. "In itch.io's word, *"NFTs are scams"* and Ko-fi dismisses it as *"No Flipping Thanks"*.". He went on to react to their words and shared his perspective regarding NFTS. Go here for more details of the story. https://read.cash/@crimsonowlkk/nfts-are-scams-or-so-they-say-83d7515a https://ko-fi.com/ https://itch.io/ My NFT journey - *Sajibb* shares his journey into the NFT world and a sneak peek of his NFT collection. https://read.cash/@Sajibb/my-nft-journey-5a15363d **A guide on NFT Marketplace** - To learn about the digital platforms where NFTs are listed and sold, you can check the guide by LucasAndrew and DanielGriffin https://read.cash/@LucasAndrew/a-brief-guide-about-nft-marketplace-9e19443a https://read.cash/@DanielGriffin/a-quick-guide-on-nft-marketplace-263676f1 Non-fungible Token [NFT] - a gamer's view of NFT. https://read.cash/@Kawser199/non-fungible-token-nft-fd00c43c What is a Non-Fungible Token(NFT)? - A complete use-cases of NFT by *Linda*. https://read.cash/@Linda/what-is-a-non-fungible-tokennft-a-complete-use-cases-of-nft-124bf946 NFT - A comprehensive guide for beginners by *Zina*. https://read.cash/@Zina/nft-comprehensive-guide-for-beginners-a6539c1d Why You NEED To Be In SmartBCH NFTs TODAY! - by *Pantera*. https://read.cash/@Pantera/why-you-need-to-be-in-smartbch-nfts-today-86e91ab3 NFTs & Me - Dancing The Discord Disaster And The Fall Of Wukong by *Amoryarte*. https://read.cash/@Amoryarte/nfts-me-dancing-the-discord-disaster-and-the-fall-of-wukong-56f81f89 Explore Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) on smartBCH - by alberdioni8406 https://read.cash/@alberdioni8406/explore-non-fungible-tokens-nfts-on-smartbch-b4c25270 Exploring Opportunities in the SmartBCH NFT Domain - by Pantera https://read.cash/@Pantera/exploring-opportunities-in-the-smartbch-nft-domain-4aa7d399 YouTube Embraces NFTs - Very interested to see how they integrate NFTs within their platform. https://read.cash/@oyl/youtube-embraces-nfts-f78a61ad Why I Don't Recommend NFTs… YET! - by *scottcbusiness.* https://read.cash/@scottcbusiness/why-i-dont-recommend-nfts-yet-ad8d0eb2 A lot of writers and financial experts have shared their views regarding NFTs. Now it's up to you to DYOR and decide if NFTs are for you or not. **These are all the stories I've collected for you on NFTs this today. Be sure to have a lovely weekend, as I'll return with my newest collection on Monday.** ***Cover Photo: designed on canva.***   ***Follow me on:*** ***●*** ****Read.cash**** ***●*** ****Noise.cash****  ***●*** **Torum** ***●*** ****Twitter****  https://read.cash/@Lixten https://noise.cash/u/Lixten https://www.torum.com/u/lixtrn https://twitter.com/lixtentv *****Don't forget to Subscribe, Comment, and Like if you enjoyed this article!*****

@Lixten 11 February 2022

I wish I never ***I shouldn't have left the house.*** I had mixed feelings when my roommate told me that I could come along with her to celebrate Valentine's day with her boyfriend. She had just gotten a grand Valentine ask out from him and they were going to the new Club Royal. The two of us had been looking forward to going to the Club so, she had been very excited when her boyfriend suggested spending their Valentine's night out there. It would be great, she had told me several times and I didn't doubt her. But the thing is, it's their Valentine's night. I really didn't want to tag along and seem a nuisance. Although she gave me a lot of assurance that I wouldn't be (a nuisance), I still felt a bit...guilty? I wouldn't have minded if it were something like a double date but the problem was that I didn't have a Valentine. In fact, I had intended spending the whole day in the room. But she was a very good talker and she could influence so well that I finally gave in and agreed to go.  We were so enthusiastic about the whole thing, especially going to the club we had been drooling on. We, as they say it, dressed to impress. She was dazzling in her date dress and she looked so happy. She spread the excitement and I caught it on too. Her Valentine was so beautiful, I almost felt a little jealous. Her boyfriend had really meant to make their first Valentine together big. I had just met him too. It was my second time seeing him but it was the first time meeting him up close. The one time I had seen him before, it was from afar.  My roommate and I are like best friends. She told me about many things, and her boyfriend was often a subject of our discussions. She seemed to like him a lot although I didn't think much of him. Sometimes, they fought and she frequently got angry at his 'open flirting'. So, maybe that was the idea that was in my mind when I thought I saw him wink at me.  The club was just as we expected. We set off to have the time of our lives. My roommate was so thrilled with everything that she was everywhere and sometimes, I was alone by myself. I didn't mind much though; it was her Valentine date so, she didn't have to be stuck with me. I was fine by myself; I was just there to have fun. But later, I had to wish that I was near her.  It was about an hour since I last saw her. She's probably with her boyfriend, I had thought. I was relaxed among the crowd, enjoying the music and having a drink. Because of the noise, it took some time for me to realize that someone was behind me, staring. I turned and jumped a little in surprise when I saw him; my roommate's boyfriend. He looked as if he had been waiting for me to notice him. He was sitting so close to me that I felt very uncomfortable. But I didn't say anything about it. Instead, I asked him where my friend was. 'She's having fun', he had said carelessly while still staring at me. It gave me the creeps. I knew that I didn't like him. He didn't appear much clean. I stood up and made to leave but he grabbed me by the wrist and pulled me back to the seat. Was he drunk? 'Where are you leaving me to?' He asked me. Why would he ask that? And 'leaving him'? I wasn't his girlfriend! I didn't even know him. I could only stutter but I pulled my hand out of his. I told him that I had to find my roommate; his girlfriend, thinking that that might make him recompose himself. But he snatched my hand back. 'Why'? He asked. 'You don't like my company? Eh?...Uh...' He tried to recollect my name. 'Stella.' He said, soon enough; he remembered my name. He repeated the name to himself and suddenly, pulled me closer. I was half shocked and half agitated. But I was getting very upset. I told him that I had to excuse myself and he should let me go but he forced himself nearer. He smelled of alcohol but he wasn't drunk. He clearly wasn't drunk. I was feeling suffocated. He was forcing himself on me. And in the midst of all these people! Not that people cared but still... I hit him unexpectedly, partly in reflex. It was hard so he was dazed by that and with the opportunity, I managed to wrench myself out of his grip. I half ran away from the area. I was somewhat disgusted by him and I was also angry for my friend. I had to find her. I've heard of stories like this and I know how it ends. But at that time, I remembered how positive she had been about this date and how happy she looked. I sighed in resignation. Maybe I wouldn't tell her now. I couldn't spoil the mood. But, I resolved to point it to her later on.  My mood had turned sour after that. I didn't dance anymore nor did I drink. I was keeping my eyes open. My roommate found me and dragged me to the meat spot. I saw that her boyfriend too was there. I felt so uncomfortable. And luckily but also unluckily, my roommate didn't notice my edgy mood. About one or two times I knew that I still felt her boyfriend's dirty looks on me. After a short while, I decided that I had better go to the bathroom.  I intended to stay there until we were ready to leave. That was better, I thought. But I didn't know that the lunatic would dare to find me there. I was by the corridor to the female bathroom when I heard some drunk ladies push a man. I hated it here too. It was dark and dirty. Then, I heard him call my name. Rage washed through me. He again? Where was my roommate? I quickly hid in an empty toilet space. I was scared now and I feared that he might hear my shaky breathing. He called my name repeatedly and said that he knew that I was there. He just wanted to talk to me and I shouldn't be a baby about this. I knew that he just wasn't alright. I knew what to do next. I grabbed my phone out of my bag and called my roommate. Thankfully, she picked up almost immediately.  Priscilla...my voice was trembling as I tried to whisper. She said that she couldn't hear me and asked where I was. I dared to raise my voice a little higher. I told her; I was in the female bathroom and I wasn't okay. She had to come straightaway. 'And Kelvin is here.' I didn't forget to add. I knew that she would hurry to me with that. Her boyfriend must have heard my voice because he came to the space I was hiding and pounded on the door. But my roommate arrived so (thank goodness!) early.  She was calling my name as she marched briskly into the place. I knew that her boyfriend realized just then that I must have called her. He swore loudly and muttered; 'Bitch!' He attempted to hide in one of the toilets but his girlfriend was fast. She must have seen him because she called his name a little loud. That was when I came out.  A small crowd formed around us quickly as Priscilla stirred up a scene. She'd gone ballistic on her boyfriend who was too shocked to respond. You know our people...they took videos non stop. It was so embarrassing! I felt very upset at how the whole situation turned out. But I couldn't have helped it any better. Priscilla hit him severally and said that she'd noticed but she didn't want to allow negative thoughts...it went on and she cried. I couldn't help feeling that it was kind of my fault. I shouldn't have gone with her, I knew. Now, I regretted it. I badly wanted to go back to this morning and not have left the house.  ***Cover Photo: designed on canvas. Background image by Pexels on*** ***Pixabay***  https://pixabay.com/photos/high-heels-feet-legs-glitters-1846436/ ***Follow me on:*** ***●*** ****Read.cash**** ***●*** ****NoiseCash****  ***●*** **Torum** ***●*** ****Twitter**** ***●*** *****Telegram***** ***●*** **WhatsApp** https://read.cash/@Lixten https://noise.cash/u/Lixten https://www.torum.com/u/lixtrn https://twitter.com/lixtentv https://t.me/TheLixten *****Don't forget to Subscribe, Comment, and Like if you enjoyed this article!*****

@Lixten 10 February 2022

Bitcoin Cash and Things - role of Bitcoin Cash in our lives The crypto world moves and innovates at a blistering pace. To keep up as a newbie, I've been doing a lot of exploring and reading since joining this platform 4 days ago. I've got a goal of staying on top of the crypto updates, latest projects, trends, events, and other interesting topics as often as I can. I've also decided to give you a peek at some of the top stories (especially here on read.cash) to get you up to date with the latest stories from top users in this ecosystem. As often as possible, I'll post updates on exciting topics, trends, and events within this platform (mostly) and beyond. Today, we are exploring the roles of Bitcoin Cash in our lives and saving it for the future. Let's dive in! @Jane, our veteran user with over a year of experience in learning, earning, and writing about Bitcoin cash and related projects. Aside from being one of the oldest users here, she seems to have the highest subscribers base (I stand to be corrected) and the biggest contributors in the sponsor block section amongst all the users I've checked out since joining this platform. So she is a veteran writer on read.cash. In her latest article, she talked about the role of cryptocurrency (BCH) in our lives and how she has managed to secure her future through the help of Bitcoin Cash and SmartBCH. According to her: *There are a lot of opportunities in the cryptoverse that we shouldn't miss. We just have to explore this sphere to get hold of them and be brave enough to gamble and take the risk...* Jane believes Bitcoin Cash is one of the many valuable cryptos that could help us achieve the financially stable life we dream of. She also pointed out some of the roles of Bitcoin cash in our lives as indicated by other users. Bitcoin Cash is a remedy to the upcoming financial meltdown. https://read.cash/@Pantera/bitcoin-cash-a-remedy-to-the-upcoming-financial-meltdown-894ad9ff pay off debt using crypto  https://read.cash/@esmeesmith/how-to-pay-off-debt-using-crypto-ce831b86 Bitcoin Cash to build a better future for their children  https://read.cash/@PVMihalache/i-am-using-bitcoin-cash-to-build-a-better-future-for-my-children-2232fdf4 use BCH to protect ourselves against financial rights abuse  https://read.cash/@Fexonice1/use-bch-to-protect-yourself-against-financial-right-abuse-7eb85f98 build our dream house with Bitcoin Cash  https://read.cash/@bmjc98/building-my-dream-house-with-bitcoin-cash-31c57dd0 Bitcoin Cash as our bank and savings account  https://read.cash/@Eybyoung/bitcoin-cash-is-my-bank-and-savings-account-for-long-term-plan-a850292f And I'll add we could pay our apartment rent with Bitcoin Cash just like @Eirolfeam2 did. As well as make repayments. https://read.cash/@Eirolfeam2/paying-my-apartment-rent-with-bitcoin-cash-ab2282fe https://read.cash/@bmjc98/paid-130-in-bch-to-a-friend-thanks-to-readcash-2671c388 Check out **Jane's article** to learn the details and gain valuable insights into the roles of Bitcoin Cash in our lives and how you can secure your future with it. https://read.cash/@Jane/the-role-of-cryptocurrencies-in-our-life-saving-bitcoin-cash-for-the-future-d6d01db3 **Looking to read more exciting stories from this space? Look no further, I have collected some latest and exciting articles for you below:** **Bitcoin Cash is not Gambling** - why choose to gamble your Bitcoin Cash away when you could invest, farm, stake, and trade with it? According to George_Dee: https://read.cash/@George_Dee/bitcoin-cash-is-not-gambling-269d4e53 *Using cryptocurrency as an excuse to lose your money is dumb because people have been gambling even before cryptocurrency came into existence and I take this excuse as disrespect for crypto.* Don't lose your BCH to wrong projects, investments, or gambling. You are responsible for your assets. **Some interesting features and tools in Smart BCH** - Idksamad shared some interesting features and tools that could make exploration of the SmartBCH ecosystem easier and less confusing. Visit the article to check them out. https://read.cash/@Idksamad7869/some-interesting-features-and-tools-in-smart-bch-8a9e2460 **Ten Simple Tips To Succeed As A Writer On read.cash** - From writing down your wallet details to bringing unique content (avoiding plagiarism) to enjoying your time writing on read.cash, this article by my favorite writer (on read.cash) Pantera, gives a precise guide (10 tips) for newcomers like me to understand how to use this platform. Go to the article for details. https://read.cash/@Pantera/ten-simple-tips-to-succeed-as-a-writer-on-readcash-e340cddf Other Interesting Articles Why is Bitcoin Cash out of the headlines? https://read.cash/@Jnavedan/why-is-bitcoin-cash-out-of-the-headlines-c67558a0 Can cryptocurrency replace paper money? https://read.cash/@Cryptowhale/can-crypto-currency-replace-paper-money-64ba69bf What do you value more, transparency or privacy? https://read.cash/@Jnavedan/what-do-you-value-more-transparency-or-privacy-6392d6c3 About Bitcoin Cash from a small French town. https://read.cash/@SolarPhasing/about-bitcoin-cash-from-a-small-french-town-3e21b79d *BCH the Decentralized P2P Internet Money: earn, spend And replace* https://read.cash/@alberdioni8406/bch-the-decentralized-p2p-internet-money-earn-spend-and-replace-54a6199e Latest on My SmartBCH Farming: A Traveling LP finds New Home in CowSwap, formerly named MueslieSwap! https://read.cash/@Carewind/latest-on-my-smartbch-farming-a-traveling-lp-finds-new-home-in-cowswap-formerly-named-mueslieswap-2b9c0e95 **Hope you enjoyed the stories I have collected for you today. Be sure to check back, as I will return with my newest collection of read.cash articles!** **See you then!**

@Lixten 9 February 2022

Best chocolates to give your girl for Valentine ***Based on her personality.*** Most men know the popular myth about women being big time Chocolate lovers. Chocolate has naturally become a traditional present for Valentine's day. So, this Valentine, while getting gifts for your darling, a box of chocolates is probably on your list too.  You should know that although women love chocolate, not all women love the same kind. There are so many types in flavour, colour, shape, size, price, and even wrapping, and your sweetheart may favour a particular type. There are different chocolates that are preferred by different kinds of women. Knowing what kind your woman will appreciate might be some work but, you can determine what chocolate to gift based on a lady's personality. Here are the best chocolates to gift your sweetheart this season. 1. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is preferred by women who are not so much on the young side and with a mature personality. Sometimes, the age might not matter much, but if your girl is the matured, serious minded kind, she might prefer dark and bitter chocolate. So, if you have a strong woman with you, you should get her a box of Dark chocolates for Valentine. If she is the 'healthwise' kind, she might also favour Dark chocolate. This is because Dark chocolate is known as the healthier kind of chocolate.  **2. Milk Chocolate** Younger women or women with young personalities might prefer Milk chocolate. Milk chocolate is sweeter and has a calmer aura with it. Sweet tooths and romantic women would love Milk Chocolate.  **3.** Nuts and Chocolate *Source* https://www.123rf.com/photo_83349049_different-kinds-of-nuts-and-chocolate-with-hazelnuts.html Chocolate with peanuts, coconut, hazelnuts and other nuts will be preferred by ladies with a strong taste. If your woman is a decisive kind, she would appreciate Nut chocolates. To- the- healthy- side women would also like nuts and chocolate. Lovers of nuts too, will appreciate having their favourite nuts put in their chocolate.  **4. White Chocolate** Introverted women will be drawn to White chocolate. It has a cool and 'by itself' look to it. Seeing as it isn't as lousy as, and is a bit unique from the regular brown coloured chocolate, it would be a great choice! Women who are artistic and creative would also love White chocolate.  **5. Chocolate with fruits and colours** Young women would love this chocolate. A bright woman on the high side would love anything with a lot of colours and she will love this kind of chocolate too. **6. White and brown chocolate** *Source* https://pixabay.com/photos/chocolate-white-chocolate-1063751/ White and brown chocolates have some sides white and some sides brown. Women with changing personalities will like these kinds of chocolate. It will give them the taste of different sides; White, brown, white, brown. Apart from this group, women who like a bit of both sides of life will love to taste and see this duality in their chocolate.  **7. Assorted Chocolates** *Image source* https://pixabay.com/photos/chocolate-box-chocolates-gift-sweet-6813244/ This is for your work man who is 'assorted'. If she loves a bit of different things and everything, loves to feel different angles at once, you should get her assorted chocolates of different colours, flavours, and shapes. She would be excited to taste the different flavours!  If your girl too, is a kind who loves surprises, gift her some assorted chocolate. She would gleefully open each chocolate piece and be glad to see something different from the one she's just eaten before.  **8. Rare chocolates** If you are just surfing the net and you come across a weird chocolate, maybe one with a unique flavour or size, or shape, you should totally gift that to your girl who loves weird things or would love to be surprised. The kind who'll tell you; "Pick something different. Surprise me." You can gift customized chocolates too.  **9. Chocolates with Classy wrappings** *Image source* https://m.indiamart.com/proddetail/rosemellow-classy-chocolate-box-23839923348.html You should give chocolate with a classy look to ladies who have classy tastes. Sometimes, an expensive chocolate box is appropriate and sometimes, an ordinary box with a classy design will do. Just something that looks expensive. Classy wrappings will usually be black in colour, and with one or more shades of gold. They also come in Red and Gold, Dark purple and Gold, or Pickle green. You can pick a shade of champagne or brown, but make sure that the wrapping is silky. Smoothhh. You know the taste...  **10. Brightly wrapped Chocolates** A bright and cheerful looking chocolate wrap will be just suitable for a woman with a similar personality. Get her a Chocolate box with a bright and warm colour. It'll lift her spirits on first sight!  **11. Flashy Chocolate wrappings** Some ladies love flashy therefore, they'll also love their chocolate box to be attention drawing. They may likely want to post their gifts online so they'll want to show something that others can talk about. If your Valentine is like this, better get her a flashy Chocolate package.  While choosing the perfect kind of chocolate to gift, you should also keep in mind some of the lady's other tastes. Try to get her favourite colour, flavour, fruits, et cetera. If you can too, pick Chocolate boxes with details of some memories you share. And then, don't forget to check the Chocolate for her allergies (if she has any). You wouldn't want to spend Valentine in an unpleasant state!

+2 more

@Lixten 8 February 2022

Valentine: Netflix in bed All-day. That was his only plan. And that had been his routine for two years now (and counting). He had just decided (by himself) on not to believe in it anymore. Or maybe he still did, but he hadn't celebrated since. Because... "Valentine's day is just bullshit." He said a little muffled with his mouth full of popcorn. A few fell to his open palm and he tossed them back with the rest which were grinding in a squashed mess and saliva. He picked up the TV remote and pressed down on its buttons. "No," his sister said over the phone speaker. "It's just because you don't have anyone to celebrate it with."  "Ugh!" He said with irritation, both from his annoying sister and slight frustration from the hanging remote.  "Not everybody meets the 'love of their life' easy like you did." He said, rolling his eyes.   She laughed. "Bitter soul."  He frowned a little and tapped the remote against his palm.  "Well... since you wouldn't tag along on our date," she continued, adding a dreamy tone to the 'date'. "You can at least, send Mummy her supplies early. And shop a little gift for her."  "I wouldn't forget." He said, half-heartedly. The remote was working now, and he had settled back to his popcorn while scrolling through the channels.  "Collins!" "Go this evening." She said with some authoritativeness. "I know- I will. Bye." His sister's sigh came loudly. "Bye." He said again. "Say hello to Peter."  The rain had just stopped but drops still fell from the roofs of the shops all around. He squeezed his hands in his jacket pockets. It was the second rain of the year and it was slightly cold. But then, there was bound to be a little heat by midnight. He walked through the busy street of returning workers and sellers up to the store he was going to. The brightly colored signboard read; Benji's Provisions and Pharmacy. It was his mother's cousin, Uncle Ben's store. He walked into the store and greeted, relaxing in the familiar surroundings. It was the major store they always bought from when he was younger when they still lived here. And when he finished school and settled back to the neighborhood, it became his major store again. He had to pick some groceries and a few other things for his mother to take to her. Today was Saturday and the shop wouldn't be open tomorrow, Sunday. He had only this evening to get the things.  There were a lot of people. There always were. So, while Uncle Benji and the salesgirl attended to the throng of evening customers, they had told him to wait for a little (since he was a family member). He didn't complain. He was used to it, anyway. In fact, it was so normal that he moved to a chair he knew was kept in a corner by the tissue paper stacks. At least, while the whole activity went on, he could get a little nap. "Why on Earth is this zip stuck?!" She mumbled with a little frustration. She hated this jumpsuit, but she had still worn it today. And now, it wouldn't zip up. Small punishment for wearing it? Eh?  She wasn't in the mood! She wasn't ready for this, and it was getting late. Plus, she'd left her phone charging at home. Lord! She still tried though, and fast forward to what seemed like a frustrating quarter-hour or so, it did zip up. She sighed with joy. And, thank goodness that nobody else needed the toilet throughout that time! Now, she was sooo pissed off and swore to herself to get rid of the thing once and for all. It would have been okay if that was all, and she could get her canned sardines and go home. But it wasn't her lucky day because as she straightened up and made to leave, the door didn't open. It was jammed.    He woke up and stretched. There was a wide smile on his face for no reason actually. He heaved a deep breath of contentment and opened his eyes fully. It was already dark and the shop was so dimly lighted. It was quiet too- the customers must have all gone. He wondered how late it was already and picked his phone from the shelf he had kept it on and checked the time. The time; One eleven am! His body jolted like it had touched a live wire.  One am?! He must have really slept off. He squeezed his face and fumbled with his brows in annoyance. No! The shop must be locked already! He knew the time they closed and...it wasn't really the first time that he had been 'accidentally' locked in. There wasn't much problem being in there but he didn't want to spend until morning again in the dark, stuffy shop.  "Agh!!" He shouted quietly to himself and made his way to the toilet, mentally noting that he was alone in this rusty place! Uncle Ben didn't remember that he was here? In the shop, waiting for him? He huffed repeatedly in annoyance. Ugh!  "What in C-!"    He stared incredulously at the lady who just woke up. For a few seconds, she stared at him too. Then, she snapped out of it and looked out of the door with an anxious but relieved look on her face.  "Thank God! Thank you so much! Is the shop open now?"  She pushed him a bit as she walked hurriedly out of the restroom.  "Uh...no, no, no." He followed her. "There's... it's still locked."  Her face slowly dimmed.  "It's still one am." He checked his phone. "The time is one thirteen."  Her face narrowed. "So, what are you doing here?"  "I was locked in too." He watched with some amusement at the way her face scrunched in different ways along with her changing facial expressions. Now, she was looking at him questioningly.  "Could you wait a bit? I need to use the toilet first." After all, she didn't look like she had any light with her and his phone flashlight was the only available thing so... He came out after a minute and with a head gesture, he walked ahead and she followed. With the flashlight, he led them through the maze of shelves. He stopped by a corner at the front and using his jacket as a mat, sat down on the floor. She sat too when he left half of the jacket for her. She wanted to ask some questions. He seemed to know the place well, and he was somewhat relaxed. Unlike herself, she was super tensed. She had never been locked anywhere, at least, not somewhere like a store. But at that, she began to try to relax. His mood seemed to be getting on to her.  They just sat there for minutes. None of them fell asleep again and they didn't talk to each other too. He checked the time on his phone. Then, she asked what it was.  "One forty." He said and they both sighed. Time was dragging on slowly and she said so, out loud. He glanced at her and nodded.  "You seem to be new around here." He said in what also seemed like a question.  "And you could tell because?" She asked too.  "Well, everyone around here knows that that toilet can only open from the outside." He looked at her face change and choked down a laugh. It came out anyway. "And..and that was the men's toilet." She pouted a little. How could he laugh? But actually, she didn't feel very offended. His laughing didn't annoy her and she laughed a little herself.  "Well, yes."  And that was how they began to talk. It began from small talk like they were strangers, but he was really open and he laughed a lot and she joined in too. She laughed about how incredulous it was that he fell asleep there and he narrated how he and his friends had fallen asleep there too when he was younger and woken up at midnight. The heat was gradually catching on so, they spaced out and sat opposite each other, facing each other. She told him that her name was Mia and that she'd just moved to the neighborhood 'like two weeks ago'.  They two, realized that they had pretty much in common, well, apart from being locked in a shop. They both talked a lot and talked about anything, they both disliked their jobs and they even liked the same kind of movies. And then, they didn't want to celebrate tomorrow, no, today- Valentine's day because it wasn't a reasonable thing to celebrate.  "I think I'm just apathetic to it." Collin had shrugged. Then, Mia talked about how she actually liked it, in truth, but she had broken up with her boyfriend two months ago.  "That's two against one day." He said with a smirk and she laughed. Time must have passed and he looked at his phone. His battery had gone down, since they had used it as a torch. Then, the time was only still past four am.  Mia sighed. "I thought it would be like to six. It's getting a bit bright."  "Today is really slow." He agreed.  Then, he stood up. "Wait." He told her.  "What?" She asked. "I'll be right back." He replied. And he did come back in a minute. But he returned with two disposable red cups. "Sorry, I forgot... come with me." He gave a toothy grin and pulled her up. She didn't say anything but she walked behind him. He walked past some shelves and stopped by one where some wine were kept. "Let's pick one." He said and she laughed in realization. "Oh!" She grabbed a bottle and waved it.  "Perfect!"    Four hours later, Uncle Ben opened the shop. He actually didn't remember that he had locked anyone in and he didn't seem bothered by the younger man's talk. Instead, he apologized to the lady and said simply that he would notify the salesgirl about checking the shop before it is closed.  "You can assume the bottle of wine as compensation. But you have to pay for the cups and buy the other ten from the dozen. You know I don't sell pieces and... your mum's things are on the register table." The old man said as a matter of fact.  After listening to ten minutes of haggling between the family, she announced that she would be leaving.  "Wait..." Collins called. She looked. "How about going out together this afternoon? You know, two haters of Valentine?"  "I don't hate Valentine." She said, humoured.  "Well... neither do I!"  **There's always someone to celebrate with! The spirit of Valentine's day will hit you!**  The lead image was by *Sammy-Sander* on Pixabay. https://pixabay.com/photos/man-male-adult-watching-movie-5545037/

@Lixten 7 February 2022

The Internet of People To whom it may concern There is so much more on the internet than you could ever imagine. Like, so much impact, influence, and money to be made. You think life is only about what you can see and touch now. You forget that the internet breaks the limitation of race, geography, and family background. You still forget that you can solve real-time problems online and get rewarded handsomely for doing so. Let me break this down for you some more. The internet does not necessarily create influence, wealth, or anything else for people. It simply plays the role of providing information (to improve your knowledge) and multiplying what you already have. How exactly? By giving you access to content and a wider reach of people in a short time with little involvement. How does this connect? Like or not, most of what we do as humans revolve around two key elements - **Knowledge** and **People**. The wealthiest of men on earth study and understands people's **pleasures** and **problems**. Knowledge is power; there is power in knowing people's pleasures and problems. The poor don't pay attention to understanding people. They would rather focus on obtaining money, cars, houses, fame, prestige, etc. Here's a quick question to ask yourself: **What problems facing humanity would I derive pleasure in solving?** The good news is, you don't have to start by solving 'big' problems. You can start where you are now and with what you have. But don't stay there forever. Meanwhile, when understanding people's pleasures and problems, providing services to satisfy or solve them, and building a brand online keep in mind that you attract what you vibrate; learn to say no to toxic clients. You attract what you vibrate Please, as a service provider, one of the best things you can learn is when to say NO to a bad client. Over the years I've had my fair share of insults and toxic work experiences. To be honest, it's not funny, it's annoying, it's demoralizing, and... It's straight out unprofessional, it can ruin your brand perception however you look at it, no matter who's at fault. Time will not permit me to share all my very sad stories, but... Over time, I've learned to let go, it shouldn't always be about the money. Mutual respect is also key to the success of any business transaction. So if the client begins to show signs of disrespect and disregard repeatedly, it may be time to walk away. Sometimes, people place way less value on the services because they feel it's something that can be "easily done" - let them go do it. Funny how this ends in a beautiful disaster most times. When you find yourself in such a situation, it's left for you to take back your power, turn down that client, say no to that underlying job, reject that negativity, you won't die! Over time, you'll begin to attract the right prospects. It's the Law of Vibration and it works alongside the Law of Attraction. The Law of Vibration is always **looking to match up people, things, and experiences that match your vibration**. When you feel grateful and maintain that feeling, you raise your vibration, and you attract more to be thankful for. The Law of Attraction can bring to you only what you are matched up with. Source. https://www.proctorgallagherinstitute.com/47878/the-law-of-attraction-vs-the-law-of-vibration You attract what you vibrate. What are you vibrating? Like what you read? Don't forget to **like**, **comment,** and **subscribe**. And remember, sharing is caring, and it's just a click away. I wish to take this opportunity to show my appreciation to @Pantera for the warm welcome and gift on day one, @Telesfor for his advice and recommended reads to better understand BCH, as well as @BCH_LOVER, @CryptoEd0, @Eirolfeam2, @Fexonice1, and @Princessbusayo for their support no matter how little. Thank y'all. I hope for more of your support.

@Lixten 6 February 2022

Join, Learn, Connect, and Earn Incredibly successful individuals tend to seize opportunities as they present themselves and make the best use of them. My goal is to become successful someday, So, I've taken this mindset to heart. I believe that in building wealth every cent matters. So I've always been on the lookout for opportunities to increase my income stream online and once one piques my interest, I join immediately. Two days ago, a friend apprised me about read.cash and its learning and earning potential. I checked it out the next day and was wowed by the earning potential of the platform. I couldn't join yesterday due to some personal reasons, but here I am now. The latest member of what seems like a great community of Bitcoin Cash enthusiasts. I hope to connect with as many users as possible while making my mark on the platform. My onboarding experience has been impressive so far. The site's simplicity made sign-up easy. Then I was warmly welcomed and got my first BCH gift from @Pantera whose profile icon inspired mine. If other users are as welcoming and generous as he has been thus far, I believe the platform will become one of my online homes. About Me Who are you? Sometimes, when asked this question, I often fail to give a quick and direct answer. Summarizing my personality in a few words doesn't come easy for me. I might not be an open book and it may not come easy talking about myself, but I can easily tell you who I'm not. I am not irresponsible, I am not a bad person, I'll never deliberately do anything that will bring harm to another, and I don't discriminate. I endeavor to be humble, respectful, and kind to everyone irrespective of their background, age, gender, or ethnicity. My moniker is Lixten. I'm a Nigerian in his 20s and a graduate. As the eldest child in the family, I had to grow up fast and take up the family responsibilities after dad's death. I cannot explain how I managed to survive thus far, but I did and I have come out stronger. **Three aspects of life have played a major role in my life; Love, Social and spiritual.** **Love**. The love for and from family and then friends has been one of my major strengths. My desire to keep them happy buoys me to keep grinding. And the love and support I have received from them are second to know. **Social**. This aspect consists of friends, family, and my immediate environment. I spend most of my free time at home with my family and some with friends. I like to listen and observe. So whenever I am with my friends or in a group, I observe their countenance, behavior and listen to their opinion then I contribute to the discussion. I love traveling and creating new memories. Being with family and friends and meeting new people has influenced me into appreciating different cultures and beliefs. I have learned things that I have been able to incorporate into my lifestyle. **Spiritual**. Nigeria is said to be one of the most religious countries in the world, but religion and spirituality are not exactly the same. My parents made me believe that maintaining a close relationship with God is a very important aspect of one’s life. As Catholics, our parents ensured daily prayers and mass. They take prayers seriously and ensure every member of the family partakes. LEC: Learn, connect, And Earn These are my aims of joining this platform. **Learn**. I wish to learn about Bitcoin Cash (BCH), its DEFI SmartBCH, other projects in the Bitcoin cash ecosystem, and everything crypto. I won't limit my learning to the aforementioned. As there are so many things unrelated to cryptocurrency to could be helpful to me. **Connect**. I'll share my experiences and engage with other users of the platform. I wish to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and interests. I believe we have people from different parts of the globe, connecting and sharing ideas with them would be great. There are probably many Nigerians here, I look forward to meeting some of them. **Earn**. To be honest, this is my primary goal of joining this platform, to earn BCH. Every other thing is a bonus. If this platform doesn't offer incentives for sharing content, I most likely won't have signed up. I want to earn as many BCH as possible, but it would be by the books. No cheats or tricks. My Interests I'm a football lover, so expect to see lots of football-related content from me. Though I'll try to spice it with none sports-related content. I also like chess, pets (especially dogs) and I'm a foodie. I don’t consider myself a good writer. And I'm not as fluent in English as I would like to be. So pardon my grammar and choice of words. I'll work to improve on it. Like what you read? Subscribe and give me a like and feedback in the comments section.