Why Pride? Part V. The Power of Compassion

Compassion. 😇

Following our pride, we are speeding up on our highways, and there is nothing inherently wrong with that. However, how can we stay stable and avoid veering off the path of True Pride towards arrogance, false pride, or hubris?

In previous parts of the article "Why Pride?", we discussed several safeguards, such as Self-Awareness and Humility, that can protect us from this risk. In Part V, we will delve deeper into another powerful buffer: Compassion.

Human compassion is a profound feeling of empathy and concern for the suffering of others. It involves a willingness to understand another person's pain, offer support, and take action to alleviate their suffering.

To better understand the interplay between true pride and compassion, let's explore real-world examples of individuals who have harnessed these qualities to make a positive impact.

 J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter)

A wizard's journey

After becoming a renowned author, J.K. Rowling used her platform to advocate for various charitable causes. Despite her immense literary success, she didn't succumb to false pride or narcissism. Instead, she remained committed to making a positive impact beyond her personal accomplishments.

Rowling established the Volant Charitable Trust, which supports multiple sclerosis research and works to alleviate social deprivation, particularly among women and children. She also co-founded Lumos, an international children's organization working to end the institutionalization of children worldwide.

In 2012, Rowling voluntarily dropped off Forbes' billionaire list due to her charitable giving. 

She stated, "You have a moral responsibility when you've been given far more than you need, to do wise things with it and give intelligently." 

This example showcases how true pride, when coupled with compassion, means using one's success to create positive change in the world.

True pride is often shared. When you achieve something, remember to lift others up and acknowledge their contributions. In contrast, false pride often involves belittling others to elevate oneself.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift, bringing her music to the people

After achieving stardom through her successful music career, Taylor Swift has made it a priority to use her platform and resources to support others.

In 2018, she launched the "Taylor Nation" program where she made donations to fans struggling with medical bills, student loans, and other financial hardships. Taylor didn't just celebrate her own successes but extended a compassionate hand to her supporters.

One of Taylor's Charities

Beyond that, she has made multi-million dollar donations to charitable causes like disaster relief efforts after the Nashville tornadoes and Louisiana floods. Swift said these acts weren't about gratifying her ego but coming from "an inherent humble perspective" to help others in need.

Her compassion isn't limited to grand gestures either. Swift is known for spending time with sick fans at hospitals, writing them letters of encouragement, and making their dreams come true through meet-and-greets.

Taylor Swift visits a hospital for children

These examples of J. K. Rowling and Taylor Swift showcase how true pride, when coupled with compassion, means sharing one's success and good fortune to uplift, support, and bring joy to others - without any need to belittle or elevate oneself above others. In the end, this helps us resist the touch of false pride.

Openness to feedback is another crucial tool for maintaining a healthy sense of pride. We shall cover this quality in the next part of this article.

Why Pride? A Skeptic's Perspective

Looking for evidence to back up claims?

As skeptics, we love to question things. We don't just accept what everyone else says. We want evidence to back up claims.

True Pride is a mix of qualities that skeptics can really get behind. It's about knowing yourself, being humble, caring about others, being open to feedback, and not comparing yourself too much to others.

These qualities go hand-in-hand with skeptical thinking. They encourage us to keep learning, try new things, and make a positive impact on the world. And we do it all while being honest and ethical.

By embracing True Pride, we show that being successful and doing the right thing can go together. We can thrive while still being critical thinkers and making decisions based on evidence.

Unchecked Ambition: How Pride Leads to Ruin in "Melissa"

Pride led to his downfall. Will you learn from his mistake?

For a compelling exploration of the dangers of unchecked pride, dive into my novel "Melissa." 

Follow the journey of Nathan, a brilliant but arrogant scientist whose ambition leads him to cross ethical boundaries in this thrilling sci-fi dark romance.

Exciting News: "Melissa" will be FREE on September 8th!

Grab your e-device and dive into Melissa!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to witness firsthand the destructive power of false pride and the importance of humility in scientific pursuits. Will Nathan learn to balance his ambition with humility before it's too late? Or will his pride lead to his downfall?

Special Offer:

• Download "Melissa" for FREE on September 8th
• Review the book for a chance to win a special gift!

How to Get Your Free Copy:

• Mark your calendar for September 8th
• Visit Amazon e-book platform
• Download your free copy of "Melissa"

After Reading:

• Share your thoughts in a review on Goodreads and Amazon
• Use the hashtags #Melissanovel #SciFiRomance # SciFiHorror #JacklynaLo in your social media posts
• Enter for a chance to win our reviewer giveaway!

Don't let this opportunity slip away! "Melissa" offers a unique blend of science fiction, romance, and philosophical exploration of pride and ambition.

Sign up now to receive a reminder on the Free Copy day: https://rbjal.com/melissa-sign-up

This novel serves as a practical illustration of the concepts discussed in this article, offering readers a chance to see the principles of True Pride (or the lack thereof) in action through a compelling narrative.

Thanks to AI

While some images were sourced from the internet, I would like to thank the NightCafe image generation tool for the images created for this post. I am also grateful to Bard/Gemini and Claude for their proofreading assistance.

#FreeBook #Giveaway #SciFiRomance #Booktok #Melissanovel

Your Reviews Matter: Exclusive Rewards for 'Melissa' Readers

Hey everyone,

I'm reaching out to all of you who have already received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of my novel, Melissa. I hope you've enjoyed diving into the story so far! 

As a reminder, your feedback is incredibly valuable to me. Your honest reviews will help to bring Melissa to a wider audience and support future projects.

Why Your Review Matters:

Your review can:

• ✅ Help other readers decide if Melissa is for them.
• 💡 Provide valuable feedback that I can use to improve future works.
• 🚀 Increase the visibility of Melissa and its chances of success.

Exclusive Offers for Reviewers:

Time Travel Novel "Redemption"

To show my appreciation for your support, I'm offering the following exclusive rewards:

🎁🎉Early Bird Bonus: The first three reviewers to complete both Goodreads and Amazon reviews will receive a free paper copy of Melissa (available in mid-October).

📚⭐ For All Reviewers: All reviewers will receive a 20% discount on our companion e-book, Redemption, and an exclusive Melissa e-bookmark.

A Melissa e-bookmark
 

How to Review:

Visit Goodreads and Amazon.

Write your review, sharing your thoughts on the story, themes, and characters, particularly the remarkable transformations they undergo.

A Paperback of Melissa

How to Claim Your Rewards

✉️ After posting your review, please email me at jacklyn.betareaders@gmail.com with a link to your review. 

✅   I'll verify your review and send you instructions on how to claim your rewards.
🌟 For the early bird bonus, I'll reach out to the first three reviewers directly to arrange delivery of their paper copies.

Recent Review 🌟🌟🌟🌟:

"This is an intense and exciting story! 

I enjoyed the descriptiveness in the writing and thoroughness of the story. There's a mixture of faith/religion and science. 

I did feel like it was similar to Pet Cemetery, because it's a story of bringing a person back to life. 

But, overall, it is an enjoyable and fun read. I like the author's writing style too. 

Love can make you do crazy things!" - Alison O.

Launch Day Readers:

If you grabbed your free copy of "Melissa" on July 30th, your reviews are equally valuable! Please share your thoughts on Goodreads and/or Amazon.

The same rewards apply:

• 🎁🎉 Early Bird Bonus: First three reviewers get a free paper copy (available mid-October)
• 📚⭐ All reviewers: 20% off companion e-book "Redemption" + exclusive e-bookmark
• Claim your rewards as described in the "How to Claim Your Rewards" section above

Thank You:

❤️📚🙏 Thank you again for your support and for taking the time to review Melissa. I can't wait to read your thoughts!

 ✍️Best,
Jacklyn A. Lo
Author of Melissa

Bonus:

🎁 As an added bonus, a free e-book of Melissa will be available for download on Amazon next week. We'll announce the exact start and end dates shortly.

Love and Betrayal, Death and Destiny: Become a Beta Reader for 'Hamlet's Last Choice'

Shadows of Elsinore Castel

Shakespeare's "Hamlet" has captivated audiences for centuries with its tale of revenge and madness. But what if there was more to the story? 

What if Hamlet's relationship with Ophelia and his inner choices held the key to understanding the Prince of Denmark's true dilemma?

Hamlet's Last Choice

Their Date at Night

"Hamlet's Last Choice," a groundbreaking reimagining of the classic tragedy, is seeking beta readers to explore this tantalizing question. 

This novel promises to delve deep into the heart of Hamlet and Ophelia's romance, offering a fresh perspective on their ill-fated love story.

Why Become a Beta Reader?

United by the spirit of reading

As a beta reader, you'll be at the forefront of uncovering a new dimension to one of literature's most famous couples. 

Your insights will help shape a narrative that balances political intrigue with passionate romance, potentially changing how we view these iconic characters forever.

What's in it for You?

Hamlet vs Royal Court

By joining the Beta Readers Team, you'll receive:

• A free e-book copy of "Hamlet's Last Choice," featuring evocative character sketches
• Exclusive access to a sneak peek of the tragic prologue and the author's notes on why she wrote Hamlet's Last Choice
• A signed e-book copy of the final published version (after posting your review on Goodreads)
• A personalized Certificate of Appreciation
• Be acknowledged by name in the "Thank You" section of the book
• Priority access to future beta reading programs

About the Book

Over 400-years Old Story 

"Hamlet's Last Choice" blends historical fiction, psychological drama, and romance to explore the ultimate question: In a world of duty and revenge, can love prevail? 

Author Jacklyn A. Lo, known for her thought-provoking sci-fi works, now turns her pen to one of literature's most enduring love stories.

How to Apply

The Ghost of Hamlet the Father

Spots are limited for this unique opportunity to influence a reimagining of Hamlet and Ophelia's tale. 

To apply, simply fill out a short questionnaire by clicking HERE.

Join us for this Adventure!

Hamlet's Journey to Execution

Join us in unraveling the complex web of love, sacrifice and destiny that binds Hamlet and Ophelia. 

Your feedback could help craft a love story for the ages, set against the dark and dangerous backdrop of Elsinore's court.

Are you ready?

Are you ready to witness Hamlet's ultimate choice between love and death? 

Apply now by clicking this LINK and be part of this romantic revolution in classic literature! 

The Intrigues of Elsinore

#NewHamlet #booklover #bookworm #historicalfiction #psychologicaldrama #romance #betareaders #betareaderwanted #newrelease #shakespeare #hamlet #ophelia #elsinore #shakespearean #classicliterature #retelling #reimagined #jacklyn<bos>alo #scifi #author #applynow #getinvolved #shapethestory #loverevolution #readerswanted

Redemption: Your Vote, Our Cover

A glimpse into a world beyond time

The results are in!

Thanks to your votes, here it is! Introducing the brand-new cover for the 10th-anniversary edition of REDEMPTION! 

The votes results: 

53,33% for the Right Image

46,67% for the Left Image

A big thank you to everyone who voted and helped shape this exciting new chapter in our sci-fi journey. Same unforgettable story, a fresh new look! 

Discover "Redemption" – now with a reader-chosen cover!

From the shackles of slavery to the intrigues of a royal court, one woman has defied the odds, choosing freedom, love, courage, and peace over personal safety. Now, as a brilliant AI executive, she stands at the precipice of a new reality.

Experience the magic!

With a chance at a seemingly perfect life at her fingertips, she makes a daring choice: to hope for a future beyond her wildest dreams. A future that requires her to relinquish everything she knows, including the love of a brilliant computer genius.

Is her lifelong pursuit of higher ideals enough to unlock the door to a realm beyond human comprehension?

Over 600 readers have already added the novel Redemption to their Goodreads "Want to Read" list.  

Join them in this mind-bending exploration of reincarnation, cutting-edge technology, and the eternal quest for redemption. 

Find the link to the Redemption novel on the Goodreads HERE.

Bonus Gift!

Enhance your digital reading experience with exclusive e-bookmarks (PDF & PNG) featuring both classic and modern covers. A thank you gift for our loyal readers.  

Exclusive e-bookmarks with Clickable Text ( PDF )

To get the Classic e-bookmark Click HERE

To get the Modern e-bookmark Click HERE

Experience 'Redemption' in your preferred format:

Get the eBook with the new cover on Amazon.

E-Book Format

Paperback Edition - Limited Stock

Grab a paperback with the classic cover while supplies last. Direct link Here!

🌟 Leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads 🌟

Enjoyed your journey through time with 'Redemption'? Your thoughts matter!

Your feedback helps other readers discover the story and supports independent authors. Every review, no matter how brief, makes a huge difference!

To leave a review on Amazon, click HERE.

To leave a review on Goodreads, click HERE.

Sharing stories

Thank you for being part of the 'Redemption' community!

#RedemptionNovel #NewCover #SciFi #TimeTravel

The Visitor. The Excerpt from Melissa (Ch. 24)

Is something watching you?

Fear of the ghostly unknown...

Fear of the ghostly unknown has haunted humanity for ages. These mysterious entities, emerging from the veil between worlds, provoke endless questions. What is their purpose? Do they carry messages? Or are they harbingers of something more sinister? What secrets do these ethereal beings hold?

The Visitor

The empty house is alive...

Chapter 24 of "Melissa" plunges us into a chilling encounter. 

As night descends, Nathan finds himself face-to-face with an unexpected, mysterious visitor. The sudden appearance of this ghostly figure transforms his familiar surroundings into a realm of terror and uncertainty.

Have a sneak peek into the hunting night of Nathan by the short excerpt from chapter 24:

 Excerpt from chapter 24

A chilling presence

"The oppressive darkness shattered with a spine-tingling crash... Nathan's gaze darted towards the ominous sound, a tremor catching in his throat. 

Swallowing his rising fear, he forced out a tremulous, 'Hello?' 

The silence that followed was an engulfing void, suffocating. Faint footsteps, barely audible over the pounding of his own heart, echoed from the living room.

 The floorboards creaked ominously as the footsteps neared, each groan amplifying his dread. The darkness seemed to press in, a suffocating abyss. 

Yet, a bewildering compulsion drove him from bed, his legs trembling with a mix of terror and determination."

Will Nathan Survive?

Your next thrill

Will Nathan survive the night? 😱  Discover his chilling encounter in "Melissa," FREE on Kindle Unlimited! 📚✨ 🔗https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9YXS12X 

Have you ever been haunted by a ghost 👻?

#gothichorror #psychologicalthriller #kindleunlimitedbook 

Morgue's Embrace: A Gripping Excerpt from Melissa ( Ch. 18)

Moments of bliss, shadows of fate

In the vibrant tapestry of life, our early thirties often represent a period brimming with potential. Careers are flourishing, dreams are being chased, and the concept of mortality feels like a distant horizon, a reality acknowledged but seldom truly contemplated. 

It's a time when we believe ourselves invincible, encased in an armor of youth that renders us untouchable. But life, in its capricious nature, has a way of shattering illusions. 

On the Edge

The unthinkable can happen in an instant, leaving behind a desolate landscape of grief and disbelief.

This is the brutal reality that Nathan confronts in Chapter 18 of Melissa. Struck by a sudden and merciless blow, he finds himself in the sterile, antiseptic embrace of the morgue...

Unveiling a Gripping World (Excerpt 5, Chapter 18)

When Love Meets Loss

The morgue's air was a thick, suffocating blanket of antiseptic fumes, stinging his eyes and constricting his lungs like invisible chains. The chill of the room seeped into his bones like an insidious poison, permeating the very essence of his being...

Nathan's heart clenched in a vise-like grip, his gaze drawn to her lifeless form—the gentle curve of her cheekbone, the strands of her hair framing her face in a heartbreaking parody of sleep.

Tears welled up in his eyes, threatening to spill over, a torrent of grief that threatened to overwhelm him. A heart-wrenching sob tore from his chest, a desperate plea against the suffocating silence that enveloped him.

What our readers said: 

"This story took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I laughed, I cried, and I held my breath as Nathan faced unimaginable choices." - Constança Baptista, Beta Tester. 

Join the Celebration!

Our Melissa's launch is just around the corner! Experience the raw emotion of Melissa for FREE on the official launch day, July 30th or download your copy now and embark on a heart-wrenching journey! 

Available on Amazon! Click the link to read it!

#Melissanovel #Jacklynalo #NewRelease #FreeBook #EmotionalJourney #booklaunch #grief #loss #emotionaljourney #heartbreak #humancondition #Melissanovel #Jacklynalo#darkromance #sci-fi #horror

Melissa: The Raven's Handshake

Jeffrey Darrington: More than meets the eye

What lies beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary encounter?

We often take for granted the casual touches that punctuate our daily lives, assuming them to be innocuous. Yet, these brief moments of contact can serve as portals to hidden depths, revealing truths concealed beneath layers of artifice.

Nathan sought investment, a common pursuit in the world of scientific research. Little did he know that this particular meeting would open a door to a realm far more sinister than any other risk.

Excerpt from the Chapter  14 ( Encounter)

Never trust a raven with a shiny object

"As their skin met, an icy tendril snaked up Nathan's arm, momentarily stealing the warmth from his hand. 

A faint outline, a raven clutching a coin, brushed against his palm, sending a shiver through him that transcended the coolness. Startled, he looked up, the question forming on his lips before he could stop it. 

"Mr. Darrington," Nathan faltered, the lingering chill of Jeffrey's handshake sending goosebumps erupting across his skin. 

Before he could finish, Jeffrey released his hand, the smile replaced by a mask of professionalism as smooth as the exhale of his now-dead cigarette."

For Super-Fast Readers

Want Early Access to Nathan & Melissa's Journey?

The Cover of the Melissa Part I

Unveil the chilling world of "Melissa" before anyone else! Exclusive ARC copies with striking images are dwindling fast. Become an ARC reader and:

• Be among the first to experience this gripping story before it hits shelves on July 30th.

• Help shape the final novel with your valuable feedback.

• Get exclusive insights into Nathan and Melissa's journey.

• Share your thoughts on the new book on Goodreads and Amazon

Don't miss out! Secure your ARC copy today. Spots are filling up fast.

Click Here to Claim Your Early Access: https://rbjal.com/melissa-arc

🎉 Redemption turns 10 today! 🎂

It's hard to believe it's been a decade since Jacklyn A. Lo's enthralling sci-fi novel, Redemption, first captivated readers. The story of Ann, a high-powered tech executive grappling with disturbing visions, continues to enthrall fans worldwide.

A Glimpse into Ann's Extraordinary Journey:

A high-powered tech executive, Ann, finds her world shattered by disturbing visions. Are they echoes of past lives or signs of impending madness? 

Guided by her AI creation and an ancient psychic, Ann plunges into a journey through time. She experiences the raw pain of prehistoric childbirth and witnesses a violent murder that feels all too real. 

As she relives her past lives—throughout Caligula's Rome, Louis XIV's Versailles, and the shadows of WWII espionage—the line between past and present blurs. 

Enter Michael, an enigmatic stranger who seems to know too much about Ann's turmoil.

Help Us Choose Redemption's New Cover Art!

To celebrate this momentous occasion, we're holding a vote to choose a brand new cover for the 10th Anniversary edition of Redemption! We've narrowed it down to a few finalists, and now it's your turn to decide which one takes the crown.

New Cover Art. Option 1

New Cover Art. Option 2

Head over to our landing page to:

✅ Vote for the new 10th Anniversary cover
📚 Discover the time-traveling journey of Ann
💥 Grab your e-book with a special 25% discount

Your vote shapes the future of Redemption. Don't miss out on this chance to be a part of sci-fi history!

Click here to vote and celebrate! ➡️ https://rbjal.com/vote

#Redemption10thAnniversary #VoteNow #SciFiMilestone

"Melissa" Excerpt 3: Can Scientist Play God?

Nathan's ambition: revolution or recklessness?

Ethics, morals, and values walk hand-in-hand in our lives. 

The common perception is that institutions, professional government organizations, religious schools, or leaders provide us with guidelines to follow, helping us avoid regrettable wrongdoings and moral failings. 

But what happens when one denies religion and competes with God itself, creating their own reality? => You get Nathan, a central character in the "Melissa" novel.

Author's Bio

Sci-fi author Jacklyn A. Lo crafts captivating tales that explore themes of free will, destiny, and the power of choice.

Her debut novel, "Redemption," is a time-travel adventure, while her upcoming novel, "Melissa," is a chilling exploration of ambition. Buckle up and prepare to be transported to new worlds and thought-provoking realities.

World of "Melissa"

In a world where science blurs the lines between creator and creation, who decides what's right? 'Melissa' invites you to question your own ethical boundaries and contemplate the price of playing God.

Excerpt from Chapter 8 ( Readers favorite)

"Inside, rows of gene-editing robots glided with practiced grace, their articulated arms poised with surgical precision. Mark watched in awe as these marvels of AI performed delicate procedures on microscopic subjects.

'Fascinating,' he breathed, his eyes wide with a mixture of wonder and trepidation.

Nathan, with a hint of pride in his voice, activated a holographic projector. It revealed a mesmerizing display of mice's cells undergoing audacious transformations.

Mark's jaw went slack, his eyes widening as the holographic display unveiled the intricate spectacle of genetic engineering transformations before him.

Nathan's AI network, far surpassing any team of scientists, held the potential to revolutionize the world.

Yet, a flicker of doubt crossed Nathan's eyes as he saw the awestruck expression on Mark's face."

ARC Program for "Melissa" 

Unveiling the cover art for my upcoming novel, "Melissa"

Time is running out! Unveil the secrets of "Melissa" before anyone else. There are only a few exclusive ARC copies with images left!

Become an ARC reader and:

• Dive into this gripping story before it hits shelves on July 30th.
• Provide valuable feedback that will help shape the final version of the novel.
• Get early access to Nathan and Melissa's journey.

Don't miss out! Sign up today!

Click here to secure your ARC copy: https://rbjal.com/melissa-arc

#scifi #psychologicalthriller #suspense #mystery #duality #secrets #darkromance #atmospheric #melissanovel #jacklynalo #thrillerreads #newrelease #upcomingnovel

Love and Foreboding: The Duality - The Second Excerpt from "Melissa"

Black and White

Life is a tough thing, but it can also offer us glimpses into our future destiny. The following excerpt shows Nathan's foreboding for the coming tragic days.

Author's Bio

Sci-fi author Jacklyn A. Lo crafts captivating tales that explore themes of free will, destiny, and the power of choice.

Her debut novel, "Redemption," is a time-travel adventure, while her upcoming novel, "Melissa," is a chilling exploration of ambition. 

Buckle up and prepare to be transported to new worlds and thought-provoking realities.

Excerpt "Love and Foreboding: The Duality"

"The door swung open, revealing a transformed living room. A whimsical parade of balloons bobbed in the gentle air, while strings of lights cast a soft, romantic glow. The delicious aroma of food wafted from the kitchen, a tempting invitation. Nathan's heart swelled with a wave of gratitude for the effort Melissa had put into creating this special scene.

A sudden jolt of disquietude ran through Nathan as his gaze swept across the room and landed on Melissa's latest painting. The barren desert landscape, strewn with human scalps and bones, created a striking contrast to the cheerful dress-up of the house. At the center of the painting, two nude women—one black and one white—passed a lit candle between them, their faces veiled, evoking a sense of foreboding. The image left Nathan momentarily distracted, its ominous theme lingering in the back of his mind even as he turned back to Melissa.

"And look at this," he said, handing her a dainty velvet box, revealing a heart-shaped golden medallion adorned with tiny rubies and diamonds, delicately engraved with the words "I love you."

This excerpt juxtaposes the warmth of romantic gestures with an undercurrent of unease, hinting at the complexities within Nathan and Melissa's relationship. The stark contrast between the cheerful, celebratory atmosphere and the disturbing imagery in Melissa's painting raises intriguing questions about her inner world. 

From the beginning, Melissa has been an enigma, an enthralling puzzle that Nathan was determined to unravel. This scene suggests that despite their intimacy, parts of Melissa remain mysterious, perhaps even unsettling. It leaves the reader wondering what secrets might lie beneath the surface of their seemingly idyllic relationship, and whether Nathan's journey to understand Melissa might lead to unexpected revelations

ARC Program for "Melissa" 

Unveiling the cover art for my upcoming novel, "Melissa"

Witness the near miss firsthand! Become an ARC reader for "Melissa" and dive into this gripping story before it hits shelves. Help shape the final version of the novel and get early access to Nathan and Melissa's journey.  Sign up today! 

Click on the link to Sign up: https://rbjal.com/melissa-arc

#psychologicalthriller #suspense #mystery #duality #secrets #darkromance  #atmospheric #melissanovel #jacklynalo #freebook #readmore