John Portelli, Maltese-Canadian author and retired professor, is planning to edit a collection of poetry inspired by the awful situation in Gaza. All proceeds from the sale of the book will be generously donated to poet friend Ahmed Miqdad who, together with his family, have been suffering great pain both physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Portelli has already helped Ahmed by co-authoring a book with him “The Shadow: Poems for the Children of Gaza” (Horizons Malta, 2024). From the sale of this book he donated 1400 euros to Ahmed via the office of the Palestinian Embassy in Malta. He welcomes poems for consideration for this collection which he aims to be of very good quality. To publish the book we also need to collect some funds.
Thus far he has found donors who have contributed 350 euros toward the publication of this anthology. We will need another 350 euros. Any donations are welcome.
Lyric Stage Boston presents: Crumbs From the Table of Joy
Performances begin Friday, Jan. 10 and run through Sunday, Feb. 2.
“I enjoyed the play but as a “black” male in America, I found it at times painful to watch. Reminiscent of Lorraine Hansberry’s 1959 play “A Raisin in the Sun”, two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage’s play “Crumbs at the Table of Joy” (both play titles were inspired by poems from Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes) is a germane, prescient, at times, biting and raw adaptation of atavistic racism of the civil rights movement and post-civil war Jim Crow era, mediated with sporadic sidesplitting comic relief and adolescent idealism through day dreams of movie magic of the 1950s, providing complex historical context for dialogue, understanding and compassion in confluence with the racial and sociopolitical disunity manifesting in present day society. A vibrant and illuminating depiction of the “Black” working-class struggle for equality and inclusion replete with dramaturgical artistry”
—Jacques Fleury, Patch News-Boston
Synchronized Chaos Literary Journal
Crumbs From the Table of Joy
Two sisters and their recently widowed father struggle to find their place in the world while holding tight to the love they have for each other.
Boston, MA: Lyric Stage Boston begins the new year with Lynn Nottage’s touching portrait of a family longing to find the light and spark that has been dimmed in their everyday lives. Directed by Tasia A. Jones and featuring a cast of new talents and Boston-area favorites, Crumbs From the Table of Joy is the perfect way to warm your heart and enrapture your mind this winter season.
Adrift in Brooklyn during the racially charged 1950s, two teenage sisters Ernestine and Ermina live with their devout, recently widowed father, Godfrey, who follows the teachings of spiritual leader Father Divine. Almost to the point of obsession, Godfrey’s staunch beliefs cause his girls to heal their wounds with Hollywood films, daydreams, and lots of cookies. Their humdrum lives are turned upside down with the arrival of their vivacious Aunt Lily, who brings with her a few bad habits and a taste for rebellion. When Godfrey makes a shocking decision that involves a German woman named Gerte, can the family find new meaning in what makes a home?
Director Tasia A . Jones says. “We may find ourselves scrounging for crumbs from the table of joy, as we search for something to help us get from one day to the next. As we watch the Crumps wrestle with many questions of identity, love, faith, and belonging, I hope we can let the theatre be a sanctuary. I hope it can be a place for us to find our own answers to our deepest questions. I hope we can let it be a sacred space to feel whatever we need to feel, and I hope it can also be a space for us to forget if that’s what we need right now.”
Jacques Fleury
Jacques Fleury is a Boston Globe featured Haitian American Poet, Educator, Author of four books and a literary arts student at Harvard University online. His latest publication “You Are Enough: The Journey to Accepting Your Authentic Self” & other titles are available at all Boston Public Libraries, the University of Massachusetts Healey Library, University of Wyoming, Askews and Holts Library Services in the United Kingdom, The Harvard Book Store, The Grolier Poetry Bookshop, Amazon etc… He has been published in prestigious publications such as Wilderness House Literary Review, Muddy River Poetry Review, Litterateur Redefining World anthologies out of India, Poets Reading the News, the Cornell University Press anthology Class Lives: Stories from Our Economic Divide, Boston Area Small Press and Poetry Scene among others…Visit him at: http://www.authorsden.com/jacquesfleury.
Jacques Fleury’s book You Are Enough: The Journey Towards Understanding Your Authentic Self
CONSTITUTIONAL DUTY AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LEGAL STATE
KONSTITUTSIYAVIY BURCH HUQUQIY DAVLAT VA FUQAROLIK JAMIYATINI RIVOJLANTIRISHNING MUHIM OMILI SIFATIDA
КОНСТИТУЦИОННЫЙ ДОЛГ КАК ВАЖНЫЙ ФАКТОР РАЗВИТИЯ ПРАВОВОГО ГОСУДАРСТВА И ГРАЖДАНСКОГО ОБЩЕСТВА
Annotation: This article explores the role of constitutional duty as a significant factor in fostering the development of a legal state and civil society. The introduction defines key concepts and highlights the necessity of understanding constitutional obligations within the context of societal progress. The methods section elaborates on comparative legal analysis and interdisciplinary approaches utilized to examine the subject. Results indicate that constitutional duties significantly influence the formation of democratic institutions, the rule of law, and active citizenship. The discussion emphasizes the interconnection between individual responsibility and societal stability, proposing actionable recommendations for enhancing constitutional awareness. The conclusion underscores the importance of embedding constitutional education in public and professional spheres. This research contributes to legal studies and policy-making by providing insights into the integration of constitutional principles in civic life.
Annotatsiya: Mazkur maqola konstitutsiyaviy burchning huquqiy davlat va fuqarolik jamiyatini rivojlantirishdagi muhim omil sifatida o‘rnini o‘rganishga bag‘ishlangan. Kirish qismida asosiy tushunchalar aniqlanib, jamiyat taraqqiyotida konstitutsiyaviy burchlarning ahamiyati yoritiladi. Metodlar bo‘limida mavzuni tadqiq qilishda qo‘llanilgan huquqiy taqqoslash va fanlararo yondashuvlar tushuntiriladi. Natijalar shuni ko‘rsatadiki, konstitutsiyaviy burchlar demokratik institutlar, qonun ustuvorligi va faol fuqarolik shakllanishiga katta ta’sir ko‘rsatadi. Muhokamada shaxsiy mas’uliyat va jamiyat barqarorligi o‘rtasidagi uzviy bog‘liqlik ta’kidlanib, konstitutsiyaviy ongni rivojlantirish bo‘yicha tavsiyalar beriladi. Xulosa qismida konstitutsiyaviy ta’limni jamoatchilik va kasbiy sohalarga joriy etish zarurligi qayd etilgan. Ushbu tadqiqot huquqshunoslik va davlat siyosatini shakllantirishga oid yangi qarashlarni taklif etadi.
Kalit so‘zlar: Konstitutsiyaviy burch, huquqiy davlat, fuqarolik jamiyati, demokratik institutlar, faol fuqarolik
Аннотация: В данной статье рассматривается роль конституционного долга как важного фактора развития правового государства и гражданского общества. Введение включает определение ключевых понятий и подчеркивает необходимость осознания конституционных обязанностей в контексте общественного прогресса. В разделе методов описываются сравнительно-правовой анализ и междисциплинарные подходы, применяемые для исследования темы. Результаты показывают, что конституционные обязанности оказывают значительное влияние на формирование демократических институтов, верховенства права и активного гражданства. В обсуждении подчеркивается взаимосвязь между индивидуальной ответственностью и стабильностью общества, а также даются практические рекомендации по повышению конституционного сознания. Заключение акцентирует внимание на важности внедрения конституционного образования в общественную и профессиональную сферы. Исследование вносит вклад в юриспруденцию и разработку государственной политики, предлагая новые перспективы интеграции конституционных принципов в общественную жизнь.
A constitution is the supreme law of a state, laying the groundwork for its governance, legal framework, and the relationship between the government and its citizens. Within this framework, constitutional duties hold a significant position, representing the obligations every citizen owes to their state and society. These duties are not merely legal mandates but also moral imperatives that shape societal harmony, uphold the rule of law, and strengthen democratic governance.
The concept of constitutional duty transcends individual responsibilities, acting as a unifying force that binds citizens to their shared values and collective goals. In democratic societies, fulfilling constitutional duties ensures not only the stability of the state but also the advancement of civil liberties and social justice. However, despite its importance, constitutional duty often remains overlooked in public discourse, overshadowed by a focus on rights rather than responsibilities.
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, where the principles of governance face new challenges, constitutional duties offer a pathway to balance individual freedoms with societal needs. By fostering accountability, active citizenship, and respect for laws, these duties contribute to the resilience of legal states and the vitality of civil societies.
This article delves into the multifaceted role of constitutional duties, analyzing their legal and moral dimensions, their influence on state-building, and their capacity to empower citizens as active participants in democratic processes. Through a comprehensive exploration of these themes, the article aims to shed light on how constitutional duties can serve as a cornerstone for achieving sustainable governance and societal progress.
Constitutional duty serves as a bridge between individual behavior and collective societal needs, making it a cornerstone of both governance and civic life. The significance of these duties lies in their dual capacity to enforce legal compliance and inspire moral commitment. This duality ensures that constitutional duty not only preserves order but also cultivates a shared sense of purpose among citizens.
Legal dimension of Constitutional duties
From a legal standpoint, constitutional duties are obligations mandated by the state to maintain its stability and promote the welfare of society. These duties encompass a range of responsibilities, including:
Adherence to laws: Respecting and following the law is fundamental for maintaining public order and safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
Payment of taxes: Taxes provide the financial backbone for state functions, enabling the development of infrastructure, public services, and national defense.
Military or Civil service: Contributing to national security or public welfare reinforces the collective strength of a nation.
Failure to uphold these duties can lead to legal consequences, but more importantly, it weakens the social contract between the state and its citizens, eroding trust in public institutions.
Moral dimension of Constitutional duties
Beyond legal obligations, constitutional duty reflects the moral relationship between individuals and their society. It underscores the importance of:
Patriotism: A commitment to one’s nation, expressed through active participation in its development and defense.
Civic engagement: Involvement in democratic processes, such as voting, advocating for justice, and participating in community initiatives.
Social Responsibility: Recognizing and addressing societal issues, such as inequality and environmental degradation, as collective challenges.
These moral obligations foster unity, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging, which are essential for the long-term stability and prosperity of any state.
Impact on State and Society development
The fulfillment of constitutional duties plays a crucial role in the evolution of a legal state and civil society.
Strengthening Democratic institutions: When citizens actively engage with their duties, they reinforce democratic governance and the legitimacy of public institutions.
Promoting Rule of Law: Constitutional duties ensure that laws are respected and applied uniformly, creating a fair and just society.
Encouraging Active Citizenship: By participating in civic duties, citizens become agents of change, addressing societal challenges and contributing to progress.
Conversely, neglecting these duties can result in political apathy, social fragmentation, and weakened governance structures.
Challenges and Recommendations
Despite their importance, constitutional duties are often underappreciated or misunderstood. Several challenges hinder their implementation, including:
Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are unaware of their constitutional obligations and their significance.
Mistrust in Institutions: Corruption and inefficiency in governance discourage citizens from fulfilling their duties.
Focus on Rights Over Responsibilities: Public discourse often prioritizes individual rights, sidelining the equal importance of responsibilities.
To address these issues, the following measures are recommended:
Constitutional Education: Integrating lessons on constitutional duties into school curricula to build awareness from a young age.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Promoting the importance of these duties through media, community programs, and public events.
Institutional Reform: Enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance to rebuild trust in public institutions.
By fostering a culture that values constitutional duties, societies can achieve a balance between individual freedoms and collective well-being, ensuring sustainable development and resilience in the face of modern challenges.
In conclusion, Constitutional duties are integral to the foundation of a legal state and the advancement of civil society. They provide a framework for balancing individual rights with societal responsibilities, fostering social harmony, and strengthening the democratic fabric of a nation. These duties, encompassing both legal obligations and moral commitments, encourage active citizenship and collective accountability, essential for sustainable development and governance. Ultimately, a society that values and upholds constitutional duties creates a resilient and progressive nation, where citizens actively contribute to the prosperity of their state and the well-being of future generations.
REFERENCES:
Ergashev, M. “Huquqshunoslik asoslari.” Toshkent: O‘qituvchi, 2020. – 41-bet.
Jumaev, Sh. “Fuqarolik huquqi va burchlar.” Toshkent: LexPress, 2017. – 52-bet.
Karimov I.A. “O‘zbekistonning o‘ziga xos taraqqiyot yo‘li.” Toshkent: O‘zbekiston, 2015. – 35-bet.
Green butterflies in faces of bursting disappointments,
Flies among the white swans through the groves
The late silk of the grass is torn to shreds
Pollen that it spreads with honor over the pearl.
In the synapses they wave their lascivious gaze
Like crows peck at the granary
Eternal offering by deposition at the altars
Forgetting the dew that love knew.
A singing artisan bird
From the secular Linden, amazed, admires them
The sleeping grove naturally hides the path,
Under its white mantle the Earth breathes.
They are not green butterflies but swift snowdrops
Under the rays of the sun the good ones emerge.
BIOGRAPHY
Lidia Popa was born in Romania in the locality of Piatra Șoimului, in the county of Neamț, on 16th April, 1964. She finished her studies in Piatra Neamț, Romania with a high school diploma and other administrative courses, where she worked until she decided to emigrate to Italy.
She has been living for 23 years and worked in Rome as part of the wave of intellectual emigrants since the fall of the Berlin Wall.
She wrote her first poem at her age of seven. She is a poet, essayist, storyteller, recognized in Italy and in other countries for her literary activities. She collaborates with cultural associations, literary cenacles, literary magazines and paper and online publications of Romanian, Italian and international literature. She writes in Romanian, Italian and also in other languages as an exercise in knowledge.
BOOKS
She has published her poems in six books:
in Italy:
1. ” Point different ( to be ) ” – ed. Italian and
2.” In the den of my thoughts ( Dacia ) ” – ed. bilingual Romanian/ Italian AlettiEditore 2016,
4. ” The soul of words” ed. bilingual Romanian/ Albanian Amanda Edit Verlag 2021,
5.” Syntagms with longing for clover ” ed. Romanian, EdituraMinela 2021.
6.” The Voice interior ” LidiaPopa and BakiYmeri ed. bilingual Romanian/Italian, Amanda Edit Verlag 2022.
Her poems featured in more than 50 literary anthologies and literary magazines on line from 2014 to 2023 in Italy, Romania, Spain, Canada, Serbia, Bangladesh, United Kingdom, Liban,USA,etc.
Her poems are translated into Italian, French, English, Spanish, Arabic, German, Bangladesh, Portuguese, Serbian, Urdu, Dari, Tamil, etc.
Her writings are published regularly with some magazines in Romania, Italy and abroad.
She is a promoter of Romanian, Italian and international literature, and is part of the juries of the competitions.
She translates from classical or contemporary authors who strike for the refinement and quality of their verses in the languages: Italian, Romanian, English, Spanish, French, German, stating that “it is just a writing exercise to learn and evolve as a person with love for humanity, for art, poetry and literature “.
SHE IS
*Member of the Italian Federation of Writers (FUIS)
*Honorary member of the International Literary Society Casa PoeticaMagia y Plumas Republic of Colombia,
*Member of Hispanomundial Union of Writers (Union Hispanomundial de Escritores) (UHE) and Thousands Minds For Mexico (MMMEX)
*President UHE and MMMEX Romania, August 21, 2021
*She had come power of attorney Vice-president UHE Romania, Mars18, 2021- August 21, 2021
*President UHE and MMMEX Romania, August 21, 2021
*Counselor from Italy for Suryodaya Literary Foundation Odisha India,
*Director from Italy for Alìanza Cultural Universal (ACU) Argentina
*Member Motivational Strips Oman,a member of numerous other literary groups at the level internationally,
*Director of Poetry and Literature World Vision Board of Directors (PLWV) Bangladesh
*Membership of ANGEENA INTERNATIONAL NON PROFIT ORGANISATION of Canada
International Peace Ambassador of The Daily Global Nation International Independent Newspaper from Dhaka Bangladesh – 2023
*Founder literary group Lido dell’anima with LIDO DELL’ANIMA AWARDS
*Founder LIDO DELL’ANIMA Italian magazine
*Founder SILVAE VERBORUM INTERNATIONAL multilingual magazine
Seeds of respect, like drops of dew, planted in furrows of love,
irrigation of patience, a slow spring that soothes the dry earth.
The sun of justice, a warm golden embrace, shelters its growth,
and the breeze of honesty, a fresh whisper, makes its leaves wave.
The aroma of moist and fresh earth permeates the air.
Roots of empathy, thick and deep like arms that embrace the earth, sink into the fertile soil,
sprouts of humility, tender and green like spring shoots, in a garden of wild flowers that dance in the wind.
Flowers of kindness, petals soft as velvet, of a radiant color like the dawn, open their petals to the sun,
fruits of perseverance, hard and shiny like precious stones, a treasure without equal. Its sweetness is felt on the palate, a taste of honey and triumph.
The abundant harvest, a field of golden sunflowers under an intense blue sky, of a promised future,
values sown, seeds that beat with a deep echo in the heart, in the soul.
A legacy that grows, strong and robust like a century-old oak, with strength and vigor,
leaving a sowing of values, a palpable legacy, with the weight of history and the bright future that it promises, for a better world.
GRACIELA NOEMI VILLAVERDE is a writer and poet from Concepción del Uruguay (Entre Rios) Argentina, based in Buenos Aires She graduated in letters and is the author of seven books of poetry, awarded several times worldwide. She works as the World Manager of Educational and Social Projects of the Hispanic World Union of Writers and is the UHE World Honorary President of the same institution Activa de la Sade, Argentine Society of Writers. She is the Commissioner of Honor in the executive cabinet IN THE EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL RELATIONS DIVISION, of the UNACCC SOUTH AMERICA ARGENTINA CHAPTER.
Time is like the smoke within moments flew away out of sight
Time deals with the power in one
Time plays tricks to the others
Time is certain
Time is uncertain
Time opens the door to enter
Time stands as bar for more
How can I say ‘Good Bye’ to my dear ones?
We are bound to abide by the moment we depart from
Though the sky is so high
Time takes us higher than the starry sky
O time, can you tell me where I would be
After thousands of years?
I know you can’t because you are dumb and dull
I have the answer from your boss
We are always on our journey to reach Him.
Chapainawabganj, Bangladesh
12 January, 2025.
Md. Mahbubul Alam is from Bangladesh. His writer name is Mahbub John in Bangladesh. He is a Senior Teacher (English) of Harimohan Government High School, Chapainawabganj, Bangladesh. Chapainawabganj is a district town of Bangladesh. He is an MA in English Literature from Rajshahi College under National University. He has published three books of poems in Bangla. He writes mainly poems but other branches of literature such as prose, article, essay etc. also have been published in national and local newspapers, magazines, little magazines. He has achieved three times the Best Teacher Certificate and Crest in National Education Week in the District Wise Competition in Chapainawabganj District. He has gained many literary awards from home and abroad. His English writings have been published in Synchronized Chaos for seven years.
