Başlamadan biten aşklar gibi gençlik daha fazlasına aç, daha azına tamahkâr. Otostop çektiğin yollarda içi boş geçen araçlar gibidir yıllar yakalayabildiğine şükür, yakalayamadığına küfür edersin. Sorun nerede diye düşündüğün anlarda güneşin alnında bir adım gölgeye hasret, anlarsın ki sorun gölgesinde yaşadığın hayatlardadır.

Ama güneşten de nefret ediyorsan benim gibi o zaman senin de şafağın dolunaydır. Çünkü bizim gibiler ne güneşte yanmaya katlanabilir ne başka hayatların gölgesinde dinlenebilir. Biz, Ay'ın yetim çocukları yakamozların bahçesinde, herkesin korktuğu saatlerde çıplak denize girenleriz. Gecenin soğuk kumlarını elimizin tersiyle iter yâr koynu gibi sıcak kumlara ulaşır, gömülür uyuruz.

Biz zaten bir yâr koynuna gömülür, bir de yaradanın ağaç kovuğundan kollarına gömülürüz.

Ben, biz - hepimiz Dünya'nın karanlık yüzünde doğmuş yıldız gülüşlü çocuklarıyız.

AlN

When it comes to the future, one major consideration is family. It brings many questions to mind, which brings many more. I am looking into questions of what is family, what will or does it provide us, and how will we take it to space.

Now let’s consider what is family. Is a family only the heteronormative mom-dad-child dynamic? What about grandparents? What about aunts, uncles, cousins, and others? What about gender roles and the gender identity in and of the members of a family? What about families of people who are not directly related? What about families where the individuals choose to be a family through legal but not blood means? The old adage “blood is thicker than water” doesn’t always apply and is not always the best course. How about clan, tribe, or some other familial/community connection and are these part of family? Are any of these other types of families actual families by Asgardian standards?

Then let us contemplate next what does a family give us? Is it protection? Is it support? Is it identity? Some form of communal organization? Maybe a reason to explain away our eccentricities or the baggage if our pasts? Is it about the economic and financial? The physical? Possibly even a spiritual component? Can we function as a healthy society without families or are they a vital component of the society or societal norms we want to establish? Why do we even have families anymore? What is the relevance of family?

Finally, let’s look at moving into the future with families? How are we planning to define family? Will this be an exclusive determined definition? Will we choose an inclusive model determined only by the individuals involved? What legal rulings will be needed to protect families, if any? What rights will certain family members (care givers or guardians) have over others in the unit (children, disabled, elderly) that is a family? What obligations will come into play in family? My examples being care giver towards children and adults towards elders. Eventually Asguardia will become a full society, not just a society of those electing to join up. There will be elders who can no longer care for themselves and disabled people who want and need but are unable to do so on their own.  What solutions are we going to use for the best life and balance for families and individuals?

I can not say what will be decided or how, when it comes to families. I can only question and speculate. I live in a heteronormative nuclear family but it is because I love my husband and the child he brought to us. Here is to hoping for an open, freeform definition and allowance for “families” regardless of the definitions to be applied in the future!

Our region (DUBAI) is more than just a geographic location; it is a tapestry woven from the threads of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations. I firmly believe that it is this diversity that makes us stronger, more resilient, and uniquely capable of embracing the challenges that lie ahead.

Throughout our history, we have faced trials that tested our mettle, yet we have always emerged stronger, because we faced them together. Today, we stand at the threshold of a new era, one that demands innovative solutions and unwavering dedication. The responsibilities of a Mayor extend far beyond the confines of an office; they encompass a dedication to fostering progress, ensuring inclusivity, and preserving the values that define us.

I envision a region that thrives not only economically, but also socially and environmentally. My vision encompasses three key pillars that will guide my tenure:

Firstly, Community Empowerment . I believe that the true strength of a region lies within its people. As Mayor, I will actively engage with community leaders, businesses, and residents to create avenues for open dialogue. Together, we can harness local knowledge and expertise to shape policies that truly reflect our collective needs.

Secondly, Sustainable Growth . Our region's growth must be harmonious with our environment. I am committed to investing in renewable energy sources, green infrastructure, and smart urban planning. By doing so, we will not only secure a better future for ourselves but also leave a legacy of responsible stewardship for generations to come.

Lastly, Inclusive Progress . A thriving region leaves no one behind. I am dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard, regardless of background or circumstance. This means providing quality education, affordable healthcare, and equal opportunities for all. By creating a supportive environment, we can unlock the potential within each individual and build a more equitable society.