To Distract Myself with Light-hearted MBTI Stuff

     Studying has proven itself to be the worst distraction. It doesn't take enough brain power or brain capacity and it unfortunately leaves me with enough of both to drive myself insane. And so I tried my hand at a free-form poem. I can't do a proper poem because I've never taken Literature as an elective subject in Secondary School and is a thus a complete amateur at poetic forms.

I sat there,
On the cold marbled floor.
I held it there,
Gripped tight in my hand,
Steel and shine.

I looked to my arm,
then to my hand.
Took this device
And swiped it across my flesh.

It began to bleed.
Red. Warm. Life
My pain suddenly floated away
And it felt okay for one,
To watch it bleed away.

I smiled to myself,
Thinking this feeling would last forever.
The pain was horrible,
But I just felt so alive.

I decided to cut once more.
I want to see that colour again.
So red, so warm, so full of life.
If one felt good,
Two would take my problems away.

And so I sit here,
On the cold marbled floor.
A flash of bright metal.
Cold against warmth and then
Warmth against cold.

A trickle of red, of warmth, of life
Taints the bright silver
As I close my eyes.

     I am going to end up thinking I'm an INFP at this rate, being the emo poet and stuff. I need, at this moment, to distract myself, to tap into my worst habit to save myself from the worst situations. Laziness to stop myself from hurrying too quick to make a move, to give myself time to calm down. Not time to think. Never that. Thinking laced with feelings often leads to disaster.

     It feels like the word "regression" was created to describe my life. It feels like, as a kid, my intuition worked miracles and my ability to empathise with others was also used at its full potential. I had come across a picture one day, of the time when I was about 4 or 5 years old. I was hugging one of those blind men that often inhabit the underground tunnel linking Northpoint and Yishun MRT. Apparently, as a kid, I wasn't exceeding Extroverted, but just less sensitive to personal boundaries. I was one of those weird kids who would go up to an adult and ask them what's wrong because I just feel like something isn't right. That picture was taken when I went up to the man and gave him my whole week's worth of allowance and hugged him. My grandma was the one who took the picture, but let's just say my dad wasn't as happy. Apparently I got scolded for it.

     Let's not dwell on that too long because the point of doing this post is for me to distract myself from self-deprecating thoughts. They will return once I run out of things to do, or simply cannot do anything (like before sleep), but for now, I'll distract myself in hopes that I can at least calm my nerves down. It's not good that I'm starting to think that I'm just insane.

1. MBTI Types in a Horror Movie
ISTJ: The one in denial that there's actually a killer.
Wait, so you think people just fell over and died? Come here and let me hug you, you fool.

ISFJ: The one who calls out "Who's there?" as if the killer will answer.
You know, it's better if you don't alert the killer to our presence.

ESTJ: The one who tries to tell everyone else what to do.
And causes a commotion, attracting the killer's attention. Yup, I'll stay far away.

ESFJ: The one who screams at everything.
Please calm down. This ain't helping.

ISTP: The one who finds a really good hiding place.
Can always rely on these types to keep their survival instincts huh?

ISFP: The one who dies first.
Wow, but that seems quite reasonable. It's ISFP the one who is quite careless and has no intuition.

ESTP: The one wondering around without a flashlight.
You are going to die. Unless the murderer can't see then it's a blessing in a disguise.

ESFP: The one who tries to hook up with the killer.
That's one way around it, I guess.

INFJ: The one who knows what's going on but no one will listen to them.
Sighhh...I'll be here if you need me I guess.

ENFJ: The one who keeps saying "It'll be ok" even though they don't believe it
Well, that doesn't help solve the situation but it'll calm people down, I suppose.

INFP: The one who sacrifices themselves.
You didn't need to do that because we are still stuck with the murderer and frankly, I would rather not have anyone sacrificed...besides me.

ENFP: The one who figures out who the killer is a little too late.
Yeah, right in front of you, genius.

INTJ: The one who everyone thinks is the killer.
I mean why not. It's probably them.

ENTJ: The one who tries to fight back but ends up dead.
Well, at least he tried.

INTP: The one who created the monster.
Sighhh...one of your experiments gone wrong again, INTP?

ENTP: The one who makes it until the end.
I assume I probably killed myself? Well, ENTPs are smart and merciless, so I supposed they would be the ones to survive.

2. 28 INFJ Problems According to Twitter
1. Because our brains don't have an "off" button.
"The amount of self-reflection I do is ridiculous and I wish my brain would shut up."

2. We live inside our heads.
"Asking me not to think is like me asking you not to breathe."

3. "Be more spontaneous", they said.
"It's hard to be impulsive when every potential scenario is ceaselessly unfolding in your mind."

4. So much for sleeping.
"Why are my thoughts 1749592 times deeper after my bedtime??"

5. Expressing our complicated thoughts can be difficult.
"After trying to explain a complex though: ...It made more sense in my head."

6. Because there's a lot to think about.
"I'm sorry. My mind was elsewhere."

7. We don't swim in shallow waters.
"I need something deeper. I need someone to challenge me intellectually."

8. Sometimes there are no words.
"When you can't find the words to say because the emotion is too deep to be spoken."

9. "Living in the moment" isn't really a thing we've mastered yet.
"Another day, another struggle to stop dwelling on the past and hypothesising about the future."

10. The feelings? They're in there, we promise.
"I may look totally disengaged, but I'm actually so deeply emotionally involved that I'm dumbstruck."

11. We can be both loners and social chameleons.
"I don't really fit in anywhere and yet, I can sort of fit in just about everywhere."

12. You'll only know our true thoughts and feelings if we trust you.
"I will not sit in a circle and share. Unless we're sharing pizza. Then I'm in."

13. We have a strong need for meaningful work and authenticity.
"Five days a week in a corporate setting can unleash my evil twin."

14. Our values and causes mean everything to us.
"It isn't easy for me to find things I'm passionate about, but once I do, I fight for and believe in it like nothing else."

15. We're nicknamed the Counsellor for a reason.
"That strong feeling like you have to somehow make something better. Like a bad environment at work or a good friend who's sad."

16. And we really can absorb other people's emotions.
"When you take on the emotions of someone you've never met before, but want to give them encouragement somehow."

17. Sometimes we find ourselves in one-sided relationships.
"Sometimes I feel like a shrink. I listen to other people's problems all day and am never asked about mine."

18. We often put other people's needs before our own.
"Cancelled some plans today and really feeling guilty about it. Blast this 'please everyone' character trait."

19. We see fake people.
"I see through you. I know what you're up to. I'm pretending I don't."

20. Our superpower is getting inside your head and understanding you.
"I'm not quiet. I'm just really aware of who you are."

21. Sometimes we have trust issues.
"They are two reasons why we don't trust people. First - we don't know them. Second - we know them."

22. High standards? Yeah, we got 'em.
"People expect a lot out of me because I expect a lot out of myself."

23. Obsessed? Maybe. Perfectionistic? Definitely.
"I'm in constant search for perfection. Even though I'm well aware it doesn't exist."

24. People who know us well, know we're truly introverts.
"I experience a feeling of being out of balance when I do not have enough time to myself."

25. But others may mistake us for extroverts.
"I'm an outgoing introvert, not an ENFJ."

26. We like people. A lot. Seriously.
"How can you be friendly and call yourself an Introvert?"

27. In fact, most people don't see just how much we care.
"I have so much love to give, but it's so hard to show it."

28. Being an INFJ? It's a blessing and a curse. It's...complicated.
"I think too much, I feel too much, I write too much. I don't speak enough."

3. INFJ Trying to Save INTP
INFJ: You don't deserve to be hurt. When somebody is such a bastard, that he hurt you that way, then there is no place in your mind for him. Forget them, leave them, show them that you don't care, laugh at their face! Show them that you are strong and they are idiots!

INTP: *dead stare and complete silence*

INFJ: I just want to say...you don't need a psychologist. If you have any kind of trouble, just tell me. Really...I'm you're friend. I'm here for you whenever you need. If there's something bad happening in your life, I'll listen to you.

INTP: *dead stare and complete silence continues*

INFJ: Well...ok. Anyway, I just want you to know.

Week later...

INFJ: *feels terrible, crying in bed* Oh no, I just need somebody to listen, somebody who will really care...If I just could tell at least INTP...*got scared* OH NO, IT'S ME WHO NEEDS HELP!!!


4. First Things That Comes to Mind
INFJ: Stars. Satin. Your favourite playlist repeating over and over again. Obsession.
WHAT. Obses-I don't have obsession. Excuse me. That is bloody rude. Do you hate us or something?

INFP: Wings. The sound of a piano. Glass reflecting light. 11:11. Long scarves.
For once someone has a better opinion about INFP than INFJ. I'm annoyed.

INTJ: Perfect structures. Rain. Skyscrapers. Crystals. Sarcastic jokes.
I like rain, I guess. Most of the other stuff are quite artificial.

INTP: Blank notebooks. Park benches. Dusk. Smell of newly-cut grass.
I really like those! Except the first one. The others paint a very nice picture - sitting with someone on a park bench at dusk with the smell of newly-cut grass? I approve.

ENFJ: Cocktail dresses. New messages. Late-night talks. Smirks.
Oh lol, the first two NO, the last two YES. Dresses...I hate dresses. I won't wear one unless I absolutely have to.

ENFP: Clear lake. Daisies. Glitter. Giggle. Summer breeze.
Remove "glitter" and "giggle" because they are very obnoxious. Summer breeze is tolerable but it's my least favourite season. Daisies are fine, I guess, but I do prefer more purplish flowers. Clear lakes are awesome.

ENTJ: Smoking. Dawn. Maxiskirts. Miniature chess boards on a trip.
2nd one and last one is fine with me. 1st and 3rd is a NO NO NO. Triple NO.

ENTP: Shorts. Infinity. Fire. Passionate kisses.
FIREEEE. Yeah I like that element. Infinity sounds cool too, the others are quite meh.

ISFJ: Fast sketches of nature. Waterfalls. Catching your breath after a run.
The first two are things that I really love but...the last one. I wouldn't be running in the first place.

ISFP: Little poems. Art galleries. Gentle touch. Cats.
Oh, I love the last two. The first two are a little boring and not my style, but gentle touches and cats? YES PLEASE. Actually, just the cat. Don't fucking touch me.

ISTJ: Museums. Handwritten postcards. Rings. Finally understanding something.
I like the last one and that's it. ISTJs are such inflexible and unoriginal people though...

ISTP: 3D. Graffiti. Black holes. Lavender. The Atlantic Sea.
And lol, my mom's favourite flower is the Lavender. I don't like the smell because it tends towards the musky side rather than the usual sweet floral scent. Random fruit blossoms are often better with me.

ESFJ: Fresh scents. Holy festival. Sunflowers. Crowds. First kisses.
First one is a definite yes. 2nd and last...how am I supposed to know? Haven't experienced either. I bloody hate sunflowers and crowds because they are equally obnoxious.

ESFP: Road trips. Bubblegum. LED signs. Soft drinks.
Well, it seems we have a winner for the "I don't like any of these" award.

ESTJ: Red docmartens. Family heirlooms. Bright smiles.
The bright smiles prevented ESTJ from getting the award.

ESTP: New sneakers. Smoke. Lightning. Running through the peaceful forest.
Can I just lie down in the forest and not run. Sit down and relax. Hyperactivity stresses me out.

4. Four Stages of an INFJ
Idealistic: What are you doing? This world could be perfect if you just...man, you screwed up a good thing.

Neurotic: Why am I different? No one understands me.

Frustrated: Why does no one listen to me? Don't they know what's going to happen? I told them what would happen.

Jaded: The world's going to hell. Why bother? I think I'll just mope around at home.

5. ENTP vs INFJ
Why the confusion?
     If an ENTP is rather shy or more introverted and has well-developed Fe, they may resemble an INFJ. This seems to occur rather frequently, resulting in a case of mistaken identities.

How to differentiate?
     Observe in a debate. Under stress, they will revert to their most natural form.

The ENTP: Ne-Ti
     Takes off their Fe "gloves", appears to thrive on aggressive, fast-paced intellectual banter, well-placed factual jabs; when backed into a corner, comes out swinging with off-the-cuff argument, seemingly pulled out of thin air, which may or may not result in a knock-out; audience applauds stunning, eloquent closing statement.

The INFJ: Ni-Fe
     Mirrors movements, respecting opponent; assumes defensive stance; appears too calm, docile; surprisingly effective counter-punches; innovative hooks, steps, turns; a complex strategic attack based on meticulous research and practice of past ten years; maintains calm; slow accumulation of points results in good showing; lack of low-blows; audience pleasantly surprised - didn't see that one coming.

Debate Summary:
     The ENTP gets really witty and smart. Maybe even appears annoying. Thrives on intellectual banter.

     The INFJ gets really nice and calm. Maybe even appears passive. Deceptive: hyper-aware and clear-thinking.

6. INFJ and Relationships (I wanna see how accurate this is)
What do INFJs look for in a partner?

     "The Ni/Fe function pair serves as a very powerful screening tool for the INFJ in everything from friendships to romantic relationships. INFJs are constantly evaluating their relationships, keeping at least one finger on the pulse of the relationship at times. It is my experience that most INFJs (wisely) won't even bother to invest in a relationship if they sense someone is lacking in authenticity and/or has major ego defensive issues. The exception to this rule is the INFJ that is attracted to the idea of making a "project" out of a relationship -- taking on an egoistic partner as a challenge, someone in need of enlightenment, etc. This, of course, is a risky and inadvisable move; one that I believe is unhealthy for the INFJ."

      So far, that is correct. Constant evaluation and thus constant worrying about whether I have said anything wrong, done anything wrong, what I can do more, what I can do less. Where exactly do we stand. Where do I want this to go. How comfortable the other person is with where I want to go. Whether I should push or relax. Too many considerations over and over and over. It's also true that people lacking in authenticity and with major ego defensive issues are often kept at a safe distance. I won't kick them out, per se, just far enough.

     "If an INFJ is working from a healthy position, (s)he will likely be looking for these qualities in a relationship: openness and honesty, patience, genuineness, a minimum level of intellectual compatibility, good communication, friendship, perceptivity and receptiveness from his/her partner, some level of interest in social issues, and , if we're being honest, thanks to the influencing powers of the inferior function (Se), physical attractiveness can and often does play a role."

     Let me just say that the last part is absolutely false. I have reached a point where I think that attractiveness usually goes inversely proportionate to intelligence. Someone with lots of muscles and drool-worthy abs will probably open their mouths and then send me walking in the opposite direction within 2 seconds flat. Okay, it's more about how much attention they lavish upon their looks. The more a person worries about their outer appearance, the more likely they are to be stupid and shallow. So I really don't think physical attractiveness matters to me at all, at least in relationships. Do I still enjoy looking at hot guys? Yes. I'm female and I possess healthy amounts of hormones.

What do INFJs need to feel satisfied in a relationship?

     "Communication. Communication. Communication. They really struggle with partners that either cannot or will not communicate. This isn't necessarily limited to the expression of feelings, thought this is important, but thoughts, ideas, insights, etc. Conversely, they also need to be able to feel comfortable communicating with their partners. INFJs are surprisingly verbal (more so than any of the other introverts) and they need clearance to speak candidly about their perceptions, even at the risk of offending their partners. This is why a lack of ego defensiveness in their partners is so important."

     Really though, what is the point of a relationship of any kind without communication? What are you good for if not for communication? To stare at? Then I can just bloody skin you and hang you on the wall. Takes less effort emotionally and physically. And yes, INFJs tend to become very, very talkative...when they trust someone. If not, well, let's just say that for people we trust, we say 1/100 of the things we think, but for someone we don't trust, that denominator is too huge to be typed out. Also, you need to be able to take some hits and not get offended so damn easily. Yes I will try to repair the wounds I tore, but it reflects openmindedness, which is more common in P types.

     "Communication takes precedence - the idea being that with open and honest communication, almost any other challenge can be navigated - but other things that INFJs need to be satisfied in a relationship include respect (especially for their Ni insights), semi-regular expression of love/affirmation, willingness from their partner to devote time and energy to work on the relationship, a high level of trust, and some level of willingness to try new things and share new experiences."

     And so I go and hug my polar bear every night because I want it to give me that semi-regular expression of love/affirmation. Just because I don't like being touched doesn't mean I don't want a hug sometimes. I think it's difficult because most people aren't comfortable with hugging themselves and...there's no telling whether I would break a jaw or hug back. INFJs are really demanding, huh? But really, I do believe communication to be important. Even a couple with extreme differences can get along if they are willing to notify each other when things go wrong, or when they feel insecure, etc and sit down to talk it out.

What should INFJs avoid in relationships?
   
     "Again, ego defensiveness is number one. An ego defensive partner can also induce ego defensiveness in the INFJ. When the relationship starts to go down that road, it can be extremely destructive. INFJs tend to do very poorly with passive-aggressive behaviour, which can quickly lead to the erosion of respect and love in the relationship. They are not like Fi types who can internally manage their feelings. Instead, INFJs actually do better when they keep their feelings out in the open where they can be appropriately managed and dealt with. If their partner can't handle this, then it might not be the right relationship."

     Which means it is inevitable that I have to pile my emotional burdens onto another person? That sucks. How about I don't get into a relationship then? Then that can be avoided, no? What a burden. 

     "INFJs also need to be wary of the pitfalls that are specific to their inferior sensing function. It is important that they not be blinded by physical attractiveness, sexual compatibility, or material wealth to the potential character flaws in their partners. Placing these factors ahead of other more substantive N traits (like intellectual compatibility, mutual respect and understanding, etc) should be avoided."

     Nah, there's no worry with that one. 

Are certain personality types more compatible with INFJs?

     "As a general rule, I don't pitch the "this type should never pair with that type" philosophy. However, it is true that certain pairs will naturally have more rapport than others, making the relationship easier to navigate on the whole. Sharing absolutely no function pair in common is a set-up fro a relationship that's going to require a great deal of work on the part of both partners in order to understand and appreciate one another. Additionally, in my experience, having conflicting judging function pairs is more problematic than conflicting perceiving function pairs (i.e. partnering an Te/Fi with an Fe/Ti is usually more problematic than partnering an Ne/Si and an Se/Ni)."

     Wait for it...

     "That said, INFJs seem to do well with NTP types, either INTP or ENTP, thanks to shared judging systems (the Fe and Ti combo, just in reverse). Additionally, the preference for intuition creates a special bond with respect to discussing the metaphysical and theoretical together. INFJs have also been known to partner with ENFPs, INFPs, and sometimes ENFJs. Because intuition is so dominant in INFJs, they are usually fairly reluctant to get involved with other S types (though, again, there can be an intense initial attraction to Se dominant types thanks to the inferior function). They can usually maintain a fairly positive friendship/acquaintanceship with STP types, but it's not likely to extend into a successful long-term romantic relationship."

     And that's why people ship INFJ and ENTP across the bloody skies. I know, for one, that I get along with the one ENTP I know wonderfully and the amount of trust she earned is insane. Within about 5 minutes of talking, I felt secure because ENTPs are more understanding towards INFJs than any other type. They are the one Extroverted type that understands the value of secrecy, thus ensuring that I'm not afraid to share. They also possess an Fe function that can be developed but doesn't overwhelm, unlike the xNFx who may react too violently to INFJ's emotions. ENTPs are also famous for being able to give counsel to INFJs simply because they are naturally rational. It's surprising, because usually you pair NF with NF, but with INFJ, ENTP is the best one. And while in INFP, ENFP does relatively well, ENFJ and INFJ can actually be rather problematic, when their emotional states build on top on each other's without being alleviated.

     "Lastly, I would say it's very uncommon to see an INFJ partner with an Si type. This combination is the most likely to run into problems because the gap in understanding between INxJ and ISxJ types is almost too great to overcome, at least not without a great deal of work. As it usually happens though, Ni and Si types tend to have such an aversion to each other at first meeting that it's unlikely they'll have the initial attraction required to get a romantic relationship off the ground anyway."

     That is absolutely true. Let's just say within 5 minutes of talking to an Si type, I get bored because we don't share similar interests. He thinks I'm crazy, I think he's too close-minded. I get bored and I wonder why I decided to play around in the first place. Oh right. BECAUSE I'M BORED. Seriously, I'd rather talk to an Si type than the wall because they are a little, just a little, more receptive to my crazy ideas.

7. The Many Faces of INFJ (Very Long, Interesting I Suppose)
Preface:
     The INFJ personality type is by far the most misunderstood type. This is mainly to do with the incompetence of MBTI implementation, by introducing personality types by a single description. Nobody was ever meant to match up perfectly to a single description. The MBTI descriptions are really only describing what the personality type will be like if they have only their top two functions developed. You see, if a personality has well-developed lower functions, or a well-developed Tertiary and under-developed Auxiliary, then they will contradict the description. They only real way to grasp a personality type is if you took a whole free range of many different models of said personality type and let people swim around in it. But you can't really do that on the Internet, or in a book now can you?

     Now while just about every type is in some way misunderstood to the vast majority of the MBTI community, the INFJ in particular was hit the hardest. There is an interesting phenomenon with the INFJ that I am pointing to: Depending on how an INFJ has developed, they can express their use of cognitive functions in ways that are radically different from other INFJs. There are INFJ that seem like T's or S's, INFJs that seem like Extroverts or even Ps. INFJs that want to go out and save the world and then INFJs that just want to shit on everything. The purpose of this thread is to introduce you to to the possible models that INFJs in the world can turn out to be. Some of them good, some of them bad, some just plain weird. While I am splitting INFJs into sub-types in this thread, keep in mind that none of them are a single sub-type. Some of this sub-types mark only a single ability that every INFJ has access to.

The Academic:
     This kind of INFJ is more often than not, confused for an INTJ, or even INTP. They still want to change the world and progress mankind in some way, but sometimes you got to play by science's rules to cover any ground. While their focus in some way is usually still on people, they approach their research from a very academic and scientific standpoint, without necessarily going out to personally teach the world in the INFJ mentor-like way you would expect. Naturally, these INFJs have a very well-developed Ti, so well-developed that they themselves would consider themselves thinkers before considering themselves feelers. But make no mistake; this is not Ni-Te they are using. Ni-Fe has a very distinct perception of world view, and it can be sensed out in a very logical manner using their Ti tertiary. But it is still just Ti'ed Ni-Fe. The Academics often do not use their Fe as warmly as the others might, this is for two reasons: Academia is serious business and when delivering facts and upholding an aura of authority, you don't want to look like a used car salesman. This is also because while they are talking, they are often running what they are going to say through Ti in real time, just to make sure everything is locally coherent. When you use Ti, it withdraws us from the world of personal connections, so it will actually deadpan and drop the emotion from your face. If you grew up around a lot of Ti users, you are probably going to come out pretty similar to this, as an INFJ. Considering from day one, you really needed to have your theories tightened up in order for anyone to take you seriously. Sure, it might have been brutal at first, but look on the bright side, now you have a really sweet Ti to help you take on the world with!
Fictional Examples: Professor Charles Xavier (X-Men) [WHAT, I WANNA BE ACADEMIC NOW.]
Real-Life Examples: Dr Drew, Paul Eckman, Carl Jung (he called himself an INFJ, cue controversy)

The Method Actor:
     This one right here, my friends, might just be the reason you INFJs have been documented as the rarest of types. Oh, the power of the persona. When you project an image, people will create your identity based on that image, regardless of what is actually going on in your head. This marks an extremely uncanny ability that you INFJ folk have. The INFJ can invent a character within their Ni-Fe. They can write an entire story of their life, their family, their experience, their fears, their motivations, their quirks and mannerisms all within their Ni. Then when the time comes, they can channel that character into their Fe and Se to perfectly embody that role, in ways that can be so nuanced that you might not even know you are looking at the same person. Even if acting isn't your thing, every INFJ still has this in them and it often comes out in other ways. An INFJ could enter a completely foreign country, and within weeks, or even days, completely master their culture, and maybe even accent.
Fictional Examples: Song (M. Butterfly), Kirk Lazarus (Tropic Thunder)
Real-Life Examples: Sasha Baron Cohen, and anyone who can properly play the Master of Masks prestige class in Dungeons and Dragons (What, lol)

The Guru:
     Whether they are aware of this or not, just about every INFJ is in some way in search for enlightenment, some of them actually find it (Well, at least they think they did), and these are the Guru INFJs. The mentor instinct runs strong in the INFJ breed, and the sage illuminates those that surround her. So the next step is to use that collection of Ni natural law to progress the consciousness of the rest of humanity, by teaching it to the world...or a handful of disciples. Now hopefully what they teach is something that can be applied to all personalities, and not just their own; I'm looking at you Eckhart Tolle, you German bastard! Just because you are an INFJ doesn't mean we all are! You can't just send any personality type to the desert for a few days and expect them to come back thirty years older and with a boat-load of insights of natural law, like the INFJs can. What is up with that anyway? I swear, you INFJs could stare at a chair for an hour and end up seeing the meaning of life somewhere in it. [My friend, it just means you aren't thinking hard enough. You can see the meaning of life in a cup of water.]
Fictional Examples: Jesus (If any Christians are reading this, then I am totally kidding. If not... Yeah...) [Yeah you better cover that up real fast. And I hold no responsibility for this, I did not make this post, I just copied it. Please, don't kill me.]
Real-Life Examples: The Dalai Lama, Timothy Leary, Thich Nhat Hanh

The False Guru:
     Again, the search for enlightenment and the mentor drive is pervasive among the INFJ. But not all that glitters is gold, and with all due respect, some of them are completely full of shit. Some of them are even aware that they are full of shit, and some are not, either way, these are the False Gurus. Just peruse the New Age movement for a little while and you are bound to see quite a few of these. They are usually surrounded by a cohort of poorly-developed personalities (mainly NFs and SFs, but I have seen many others in these circles, even NTs) because all of the strong personalities who can smell their bullshit a mile away, leave. Which is all the better. Weak minds don't ask questions, which is perfect because the False Guru can't answer them. All they can really do is sound really mystical and witty and charm the hell out of you. [I thought that was ENFJ! Wow, so we are capable of that too.] Generally speaking, this is mainly the result of an INFJ who avoided their Ti, and are scared to death by the rest of the Ti and Te in the world, so they make sure they surround themselves with people with even weaker abilities than they have. [That's rather mean to speak of people this way.] While most False Guru's teachings are pretty benign, some of them are very dangerous (Google the word Breatharianism [That thing is fucking retarded and not even logically sound!]), and could lead to cults as well as very destructive behaviour. There is also the breed of False Gurus that are deliberately manipulating and lying to people, just so they can be validated and worshipped as messiah. [Wow, where do I unlock this hidden potential? Where's the bloody code?] Watch out for them. They are nothing more than energy vampires feeding off the praise of the faithful. So the next time you hear a Guru trying to tell people about the world, you really need to think critically about what they are saying. Nature wouldn't have given us judgement if we were not expected to use it.

     You didn't really think I would have only good things to say about types of INFJs, right? Where light is cast, there will always be shadows. Don't think for a second that just because Kiersey decided to call your kind "The Protectors", it means you are all going to be a bunch of goddamn do-gooders. Ni with Fe can give extremely powerful abilities [I may I mention ENFJ is Ni with Fe, just the other way round? But I suppose they are generally insulted enough.], and with great power comes great responsibilities. Sometimes, this power falls into the wrong hands, and that is why there is a light and dark side to Ni.
Fictional Examples: I got nothing.
Real-Life Examples: Jazmuheen

The Cobra:
     INFJs are not necessarily only good for long-range planning and being a visionary. They can be pretty damn scary when using that Ni and Fe for manipulative purposes.

     The Cobra uses their Fe to be playful and seductive to get people to disarm and loosen up, all the while keeping a close Ni look on what is going on, drinking in as much information as possible with Se, and reserving their actions until their Ni tells them the perfect time to strike. [Since the reference is Ni, Fe, Se; the conclusion should be that ENFJ does it better you know.]  And when they do, they go straight for the jugular. The name "Cobra" comes from the posture they sometimes take with their head upright and eyes narrowed, still, and looking straightforward at their prey. Cobras make perfect secret agents and interrogators, which is why many of them are. They can read their subjects with uncanny accuracy and know just what to say and exactly how to act to get what they want out of anyone. [But you know, you really shouldn't force things out of people like that...Go check your moral compass, fellow INFJs.] Sometimes, they can even get people to admit to crimes they didn't even commit; luckily, they know when they are lying too. Ever heard a person who would talk their way out of being charged for murder? They were probably a Cobra INFJ. [OR AN ENFJ, dude seriously, manipulative business is better in the hands of ENFJs.] Don't get charmed by the smile, watch the eyes, if you get strung along by their hypnotic Fe display, they fucking got you where they want you. All INFJs have a little bit of Cobra in them, what you do with it is entirely up to you. [Even when I want something really badly, I don't think I'll ever resort to such measures. But sure, I do know certain ways of working around certain people.] For the most part, it is actually a defence mechanism and INFJs will embody the Cobra for a quick escape when the trouble arises. [Oh, I remember now! The millions of times I slithered my way out of being scolded for not doing work! I love how so many teachers can be fooled by an "apologetic expression" that is slightly teary-eyed. It was funny because I thought it was so damn obvious!]
Fictional Examples: Col. Hans Landa (Inglorious Bastards), Jarlaxle Baenre (Forgotten Realms, The Dark Elf Saga), Bill (Kill Bill) [I have no idea what all these are]
Real-Life Examples: Bjork [What?]

The Gypsy King:
     The Gypsy King (or Queen) actually goes hand-in-hand with the Cobra, because they are really two sides of the same coin; the twin masters of INFJ trickery. However, the Gypsy uses their manipulation tactics for outright conning people. Now there seems to be an association with the ESTP and confidence artistry. I would say it is pretty undeserved; when it comes to manipulation, the sharky used car salesman ENTP, is child's play when compared to the cunning foresight and hypnotic charm of the INFJ. The Gypsy King can figure a person out within seconds. A tattoo, a bruise, dark circles under the eyes, person looks down an to the left while talking, an expensive watch, tan lines on arms, all kinds of these random details that they take in through Se are their gateway into the minds of people, and then with a little speculation out of their Ni-Fe and Ti, they can have your whole life figured out within a blink of an eye, and know exactly how to approach you. Have you ever been to a psychic, who seemed to know everything about you? Things they couldn't have known? Yeah, you just got INFJ'ed, Gypsy style. Conning people isn't all malicious either, sometimes it is just good entertainment. That is why many of the Gypsy INFJs are Magicians; casting spells of perceptual redirection with displays of Fe and Se, to distract the audience in order to miss what is happening behind it all.
Fictional Examples: Shawn Spencer (Psych)
Real-Life Examples: John Edward, Criss Angel

The Revolutionary:
     Hell yeah! What would this guide be without the INFJ  Revo-motherfucking-lutionary?! The Revolutionary aspect is to the INFJs, as Superman is to the Superfriends, INDISPENSABLE! I mean, this isn't even a face of the INFJ, this is the INFJ. The INTJs might have been nicknamed "The Mastermind", but being a mastermind really comes from being an Ni dominant more than it does from being a Thinker. The INFJ Revolutionaries are masterminds in their own right, visionaries of the people. Literally beginning as children, INFJs go through life observing the world. [And thus leading to my parents thinking that I'm mentally ill because I kept asking them what life's purpose was as a 5 year old. Apparently that's not normal.] The inner workings of society, human behaviour and natural law become clear to them through their observations and experience. Naturally, their Ni begins expanding as their world view expands, and through it they acquire a future vision of what the world should be like. The world would be so much better if it worked the way it did in their Ni, but it doesn't, and that just fucking pisses them off. [Or sends them into depression. Same thing.] This deep dissatisfaction for the world as it is now is what fuels the revolutionary fire that burns in the hearts of INFJs. Because the solutions to all of the world's problems are obvious, so obvious that it is maddening to think that they and a few others are the only people who can see it. [Yeah! People need to be less selfish, more caring, more forgiving. That's it. Not that difficult!] This dissatisfaction for society creates a certain adversarial nature for the INFJ, it is them against the world. But no matter, if the world we live in sucks, just make a new one! [Wow wow wow, that's too much. Calm down.]
Fictional Examples: V (V for Vendetta), Drizzt Do'Urden (Forgotten Realms, The Dark Elf Saga)
Real-Life Examples: Che Guevara, Martin Luther King

The Destroyer of Worlds:
     The adversarial nature and discontent with society is natural for the INFJs. However, at times, their adversarial world view can become so strong that it turns to hatred and the point of view that humans are just too stupid to live up to what they think they should live up to. [Nah, if things don't turn out correct, it's probably my fault and not the world's fault.] The worst cases are when INFJs are also not in touch with their Fe. [How? I would like to know how because my Fe is causing me a lot of pain, welcomed pain, but still pain. I would very much like an on/off switch with that.] Their Ni will continue growing, and their Ti will make sense of it, but because they never get that push back from Fe, their world view just becomes more and more detached and distorted from reality. This only perpetuates their hatred, because at the times they do try to articulate their distorted world view, they are met with resistance from other people. Which leads them to a perspective that no humans are worth saving, they are all just mindless idiots. Obviously, these are very extreme cases, but make no mistake; they do exist and have always existed. The Destroyers might even gain enough power to lead their own revolution, but it will be a revolution of hatred, destruction and death. These kinds of INFJs also make some of the best villains in fiction, which everyone mistakes for INTJs on the forums. Apparently evil = T.
Fictional Examples: The Joker (Batman), Rorchach (The Watchmen), Tyler Durden (Fight Club), Light Yagami (Death Note)
Real-life Examples: GG Allin, Hitler

MBTI Stuff #7: I'm Too Free

     I didn't think that my study schedule would only take me 10 minutes to write out. Why am I so bad with time? I always arrive 15 minutes early for everything even when I try not to be. I always give myself too long of a time to do something. Like even for essays. I give myself 3 hours when I'm usually done in 1.5-2 hours and that's when I need to do research. Essays without research can be done under 1 hour. But I don't let to stress myself out, so I guess that's why I always try to give myself a lot of buffer time.

     Anyway, I'm super free these few days and that's not good. I can't understand why people's response to "I'm bored" is "Go study", because studying makes me even more bored. So I'm sitting here reading random documents that I'll forget to save, but I'm so impatient that I just end up making this post. Also, I've finished a 200 page report and now I'm bored again. I'll fish through my contacts and go on a "date" one day, but I'm probably going to be bored within 20 minutes anyway. Why do I even bother? Oh, I know, because I can't talk to myself!

1. MBTI Types as Nights
INFJ: The nights outside with a friend just lying down and staring at the stars.
It's fine even if there isn't conversation. I think just the presence of someone I trust next to me as I stare up at the open sky and let the stars inspire my thoughts is enough. It does paint a very beautiful scene.

INFP: The nights picnicking in the summer besides a lake.
Picnicking though? Can we just not do anything or talk instead?

INTJ: Wandering through the city when no one is awake and the lights are out.
Sounds like a good solitary walk. I do still prefer the idea of lying on a grassy slope staring up at the stars though. The empty feeling of a city may become overwhelming.

INTP: Staying home with a great book and so many thoughts in your head.
That is the worst idea. In the first place, I don't read fiction because it doesn't require that much attention and I'm left with my thoughts, which can become self-destructive when no good company is around.

ENFJ: Campfire nights with friends.
Can we just not light the campfire and sit in the dark instead? And not have too many people? Oh well, extroverts.

ENFP: On a road trip in the car with friends all night.
And at one point I will blow up at someone because they won't shut up.

ENTJ: At a party at your best friend's house meeting so many cool people.
Erm, no. I don't want to go to your party, I'm sorry.

ENTP: On a big social event with fireworks and fascinating people to talk to.
The second part is fine but how do you hear them over the fireworks?

ISFJ: Reading your favourite book to someone you love in the night and sleeping in their arms.
Well I'm frigging sorry that I can't do that! It does sound nice, but you know, I still prefer lying down on grass at night because it's probably a nice kind of chilly and breezy.

ISFP: Watching your favourite movie again with popcorn and a very good friend.
I'll be down for that!

ISTJ: Climbing a tree in the night and watching over the peaceful forest.
That sounds not bad. Can I bring a friend?

ISTP: Rewarding yourself with things that you love like a bath or something you always wanted to do because you deserve it.
Eh, I'd rather lay back and do nothing? I'm not too into material stuff.

ESFJ: Trying out a new club in the area and dancing all night.
Eww no. At one point you're going to get drunk and then you are going to end up doing stupid shit. There isn't interesting company there, I presume, just a bunch of disgusting guys trying to rub up on every girl in a 10m radius.

ESFP: Going to a concert of your favourite band.
No. Too many people. Too noisy. I want to go somewhere quiet.

ESTJ: Playing truth or dare at a party where everyone's laughing and all having fun.
Truth and dares never end well. Someone will suggest something stupid at one point and everything will go to shit.

ESTP: Sleeping in a cabin in the woods with a bunch of friends.
Change that to "a few friends" and that's fine.

2. Most to Least Independent
1. ISTP
2. INTP
3. ISFP
4. INFP
5. INTJ
6. ESTP
7. ENTP
8. INFJ
9. ENFP
10. ENTJ
11. ISTJ
12. ESFP
13. ESTJ
14. ISFJ
15. ENFJ
16. ESFJ

     Wow, look at those needy people at the bottom. And I think it's hilarious how my mom and dad are #1 and #2 respectively. I'm like there, in the middle, completely undecided. Okay, it's inclined towards the less independent side but still, at least I'm not at the bottom.

3. MBTI Raging
ENTP: You're fucking coo, yeah, but you're NOT AS COOL AS YOU THINK YOU ARE. YOU ARE NOT THE SUN. WORLD DOES NOT REVOLVE AROUND YOU.
Erm, Einstein? Would you like to calm down over there and tell me what's wrong? I'm sure I can help you if you'd stop yelling at the top of your voice...

ENTJ: STOP TELLING ME WHAT THE FUCK TO DO.
I-I was just trying to help. I'm sorry...

INTJ: YOU DON'T FUCKING KNOW EVERYTHING! You can't even talk to people properly or articulate a damn argument.
I was just asking for your advice! I guess I'll take my emotions elsewhere, you shithead.

INTP: Dude...the only reason people don't want to date you is you have a fucking neckbeard and pretend like immaturity is cool and fuck everyone else. You can't say fuck everyone else and expect them to like you.
I approve of your reasoning, INTP. Go ahead.

INFJ: YOU ARE NOT PSYCHIC. YOU DO NOT KNOW ME BETTER THAN I KNOW ME. STOP TRYING TO "GET ME". YOU DON'T.
Erm yeahhh. I always understand "me" better than anyone else, even if I don't even know "me" that well.

INFP: You guys can't even wipe you own asses without validation. Why the hell should I respect your "well-researched" moral high-ground?
Well, just listen, INFP. You don't have to agree but they are entitled to their own opinions, you know.

ENFP: You can wipe your asses without validation, but I'm still pissy over your high horse. Also, it isn't cute to be morally belligerent.
That sounds better than INFP...but not much. If they want to sit on their high horse, then just ignore them?

ENFJ: Just cause I don't want to date you doesn't mean you should drop off the face of the fucking planet and stop being my "best friend"! What, you were only my friend to fuck me?!
Oh wow. I mean I would be really pissed too, but it's understandable? Note to self: ENFJ is second least independent. Oh right, that explains things. But ENFJs don't get angry usually, so I don't know?

ESTJ: I DON'T WANT TO GET A "REAL JOB".
Okay, then don't. Just don't burden anyone ok?

ESFJ: WHY ARE YOU SO SICKLY SWEET, YOU TWO-FACED BASTARDS.
Wait, is that good or bad? I'm sickly sweet but I'm two-faced? Are you implying that I'm just taking advantage of you? I'M NOT. I'M INFJ, I DON'T DO THAT SHIT. How dare you think you know me better than I do!

ISTJ: I WILL NOT FOLLOW ARBITRARY RULES.
Yo calm down there law enforcer. As long as I'm not hurting anyone, it should be fine, dude.

ISFJ: We should not do something inefficiently because that is "how it's always been done." Also, STOP SHITTING ON MY DREAMS.
Well I agree, but no need to get so riled up about it.

ESFP: Stop giving so much of a shit about what you "homies" think of you.
I can't. Your "homies" are your friends and you don't stab them in the back, neither do you piss them off.

ISFP: It isn't cool to be fucking lazy and ignorant.
I'm sorry. I know I am lazy and ignorant about some things, but don't over-generalise, you shit.

ISTP: Dude, I'm sorry I'm not as logical as you are in the exact same way as you.
Nah, it's fine. It's ok to not be logical.

ESTP: No one gives a shit how many awards and competitions you've won. GO HOME.
Just let them boast. Just shut their voices out. It makes them happy to brag, you know.

4. INFJs Being Rejected (On the Outside and On the Inside)

On the Outside: Nah, I'm fine *smiles*

On the Inside: OMG, THE PAIN!!! Kill me now.

5. MBTI on a Lame Vacation

ISTJ: Reorganise everyone's luggage and begin repacking early

I would rather you not do that, only because I'm an idiot and I probably won't be able to find shit later. But if you want to, go ahead.

ISFJ: Start making a scrapbook with the few pictures and momentos they have.

Scrapbooks are really not my thing. I get bored with them after using them twice.

INFJ: Sit in the hotel lobby and watch people.

And when I'm older, I think I can be a legitimate stalker. We are NOT that creepy.

INTJ: Plan what they'll do when they get home and just hope it passes quickly.

Oh wow, you guys are boring.

ISTP: Go off on their own to try to find any interesting places in the area.

Cool, but I don't want to move.

ISFP: Sit in their hotel room and watch TV all day.

Hey, can I join?

INFP: Spend their time journaling by themselves.

Hey, hey, talk to me! Yo! The journal isn't going to give you feedback, you know?

INTP: Find some exhibit or museum in the area and go visit that.

Can I come?

ESTP: Try to find dangerous pranks and dares to do to pass the time.

...I'll call the ambulance to be on stand-by...and please don't involve me.

ESFP: Spend their time at the hotel pool, getting hit on every five minutes.

Oh wow, jock type. That will eventually get boring, no?

ENTP: Wander around the area, studying whatever history and culture it has.

Tell me when you come back?

ESTJ: Organise a few group photos so they can all look back on them later.

I hate cameras and I will destroy them if you make me take a photo. Please stay far away from me.

ESFJ: Make it their personal mission to befriend all the other guests in the hotel.

Well, I can tell you what their general personalities are like if you want.

ENFJ: Organise some fun activity for their group.

No. Seriously, fuck off. Making something less "lame" does not involve dragging me into stupid, brainless activities. I know what you're trying to do, but fuck off. 

ENTJ: Google activities and make a list of possibilities for their group.

Yeah, you go join ENFJ over there and leave me alone. These people walking around are a million times more tolerable than you guys.

6. Cool INFJ Stuff #1 of Infinity

7. MBTI Types Locked in a Mall

ISTJ: Keeps repeating the fact that they aren't supposed to be here and runs around trying to open all of the doors.

Hey, relax dude. If it didn't open the first 10 times, it probably isn't going to miraculously open without a cause. Sit down and let's chat.

ISFJ: Collects blankets and pillows to make a very intricate fort and bedding for everyone to sleep in that night.

Thanks, Mrs Beaver! I wouldn't have minded sleeping on the floor, but this is awesome!

INFJ: Thinks about what would happen if they were isolated forever and takes bets on who would survive the longest/turn against the others.

Hmm, I would bet on ENTP and ENTJ because they are charismatic and probably are merciless enough to try to kill others for survival. Yup, my bets are on them. ENFJ may keep some semblance of order by dissuading violence, but that will only last for that long. Plus ENTP and ENTJ may actually get more annoyed and kill ENFJ first...hmmm...

INTJ: Begins preparing their food rations and plan of survival just in case no one ever comes to rescue them.

If it's isolated survival, I would have bet on INTJ, but no. You need defence against others as well.

ISTP: Steals all the food and important items in the mall and builds themselves a barricade in some abandoned corner of the mall.

The under dogs. I nearly forgot about them.

ISFP: Spends half the time running around with ISFP and half the time in the corner brooding about their feelings.

You wanna come here and take a bet first?

INFP: Sits in a corner and cries, convinced that they are going to get arrested and go to jail.

*Sigh* Come here, you. We'll be fine. ...I'll protect you if you want?

INTP: Spends a lot of time considering what food will be good and for how long, taking into account its nutritional components and all the things that could possibly have occurred to it.

It isn't going to save you if the others try to kill you though.

ESTP: Finds the escalator and tries making makeshift skies/sleds and riding down it in extremely dangerous ways.

First to die, by own stupidity.

ESFP: Takes the opportunity to throw a party, encouraging everyone to go crazy and run through all the stores.

Leave me out of this, or I will kill you first.

ENFP: Gets really excited about all the exciting things they could do in the mall, then gets bored and keeps complaining about how they want to go outside.

Yes honey, you've said that ten times already. No, I don't know anything interesting you can do, unless you want to change your bet. Now shut up because my ears are ringing.

ENTP: Spends the night jumping out from behind dark corners and scaring the other types.

So if we end up having to kill one another, these people will turn into ninjas.

ESTJ: Organises a fashion show with all of the clothe from the mall, forcing everyone to participate and to enjoy it.

No, I don't want to participate. But go ahead.

ESFJ: Sings the Robin Sparkles song on repeat for the entire night.

Well, you would win because I'll kill myself if you don't shut up.

ENFJ: Keeps talking about what a great bonding experience this is and hugging everyone incessantly.

Firstly, stop touching me or I'll cut off your arms. Secondly, stop talking because ENFP is already noisy enough. Thirdly, please go somewhere else if you aren't taking a bet. If you want to stay here, make meaningful conversation instead.

ENTJ: Takes charge and tries to organise the entire group to create an efficient plan of escape.

See, my bet was accurate.

8. The Types Fucking Shit Up (Or Not)

"Let's fuck shit up" squad: ENTP, ENTJ, ESTP, ISTP, ESFP

Guys, please, we are going to get into trouble and I don't want any part of that. Let's just be clear that I am not in support of this, neither am I responsible for this shit going out of hand, ok?

"Sits by and watches all hell break loose" squad: INTP, INTJ, INFP, ENFP

Is this fun to watch? Really?

"Cleans up everything afterwords while bitching about both other squads" squad: ESTJ, ISTJ, ESFJ, ISFJ, ISFP

Wait, where am I? Hmmm...never mind. Thanks for cleaning up and...I'm not involved ok. *points at ENTJ* He suggested it and didn't listen to me.

"Gets everyone to settle down afterwards meanwhile evading responsibility for partaking in the fucking up of shit" squad: ENFJ, INFJ

Oh, hahahahaha. I told you, I had no part in this. I tried to stop it, it didn't work, but it did eventually. So clearly, I am not responsible for *this*.

9. Types of Anger

The explosive in-your-face angry squad: ENTJ, ESTJ, ESTP, ESFP

WOW, calm down. I'm sorry. I said I'm sorry. Sheesh. *mutters* Asshole.

The cold you can feel the ice piercing your heart, they might murder you in your sleep type of anger squad: INTJ, ISTP, ENTP

Remind me not to piss off my mom again? I don't want to die in my sleep. ...No wait, I do. Let me try to piss her off then.

The passive-aggressive, would they please just tell me what's wrong already, angry squad: INFP, INFJ, ISFP, ISFJ, ENFP

No. You should understand your own mistakes. If you cannot or if you aren't going to ask me, then I'm not going to stop being angry. But hey if you realise what you did wrong, "TA-DA" I'm not angry anymore...not at you at least.

The you will never know they're angry squad: ESFJ, INTP, ENFJ, ISTJ

OH. NO. Shit, did I say something wrong at one point? Crap. I'll never know, will I. Shitastic. Still, why is my dad here? His anger is so obvious that I think everything in a 10m radius sets on fire and explodes.

10. MBTI as Pokemon Legendaries (w/ Pics because I can!)

ISFP - Mew

ESFP - Ho-Oh

ESTP - Mewtwo

ISTP - Genesect

ISFJ - Lugia

ESFJ - Latias

ESTJ - Rayquaza (Hey, that's my favourite! Give it here.)

ISTJ - Zygarde

INFP - Xerneas

ENFP - Latios

INFJ - Reshiram (Hell yeah~)

ENFJ - Cresselia (Moon Duck Friggin Cunt, the bulkiest asshole wall ever)

INTP - Kyurem

ENTP - Zekrom (Oh lol, you just had to give INFJ and ENTP the matching pair huh?)

INTJ - Yveltal

ENTJ - Arceus (Wow)

Animal Symbolism #1: Dove, Wolf

     Animal symbolism is a quite an interesting topic, since if you were to prescribe a certain set of qualities to a certain animal, aren't you, in a way, stereotyping the whole species? Wolves are generally treated as symbols of teamwork, because they travel and survive in packs, yet the lone wolf is a symbol of individuality and solitude, almost as if they are separate entities. Also, when you are named after an animal, it is expected that there is at least some interest in what your animal represents. Mine is a dove, specifically a white dove. 和平鸽 (he2 ping2 ge1), which translates directly to dove of peace.

1. Dove Symbolism
     Dove symbolism has seemingly inexhaustible flavour and dynamism throughout most histories, cultures and myth. They represent a number of things, from motherhood to promise to divinity to purification. I, for one, know which one of those symbols I'm named after, but that's a long story that I'm not going to bother with here.

     Since doves symbolise so many things, this website has kindly narrowed it down to a few keywords:
- Love
- Grace
- Promise
- Devotion
- Divinity
- Holiness
- Sacrifice
- Maternal
- Ascension
- Purification
- Messenger
- Hopefulness

     Since that part of my name was decided upon by all 4 of my grandparents, it was actually a combination of 4 different ideas. Of course, I'm just highlighting those keywords that come the closest to what they had meant when they gave me that part of my name. Really, I'm not one for meaningful names, but just those that sound nice. Names are just labels, there is no need for them to be so meaningful. But that's just a very baseless assumption. The fact that people use full names when trying to express seriousness or murmur names during sex means that they aren't just simply labels. But still, I really think that my name is messed up because in Singapore, the word 鸽 (ge1) just means pigeon. It's shocking how many people don't know that in Chinese, pigeon and dove are given the same name. "Why are you named after a pest?" ....Well, I'm not.

     And so I'm just going to quote the website, since I'm not very good with animal symbols that will include religion. Myth is fine, because people don't get pissy about it, but I refuse to touch something that I find ridiculous to fight over. You believe in what you will and I will believe in what I will. Just because I don't believe now, doesn't mean I can't be persuaded to believe. In fact, I do want someone to try, intelligently. I don't want to diss anyone and I don't want to diss myself either.

     "Aphrodite (Venus in Roman myth), the voluptuous goddess-mother of love, is often featured with a dove nearby in artistic portrait. Here, we get the sense of higher love; a love that is as large as the goddess herself. A kind of love that turns a blind eye to the typical foibles and downfalls of mankind -- and sees right into the heart of pure potential that is reveals only by viewing the soul through the lenses of love. As a love symbol, the dove conveys a kind of soulful ascension -- a higher admiration for the true value of unconditional love.

     Perhaps it's her softly lulling coos that won the dove's position so close to Ishtar's, Mother Mary's and Aphrodite's heart. Open your psychic ears at dawn and dusk and become enchanted by their rippling vocalisations. One can't help but become subdued by their gentle love-calls. Sweet churbles and downy wurbles are testimony to a divinely calming presence among us.

     And speaking of divine presences, the dove symbolism is often equated to heavenly visitations. John the Baptist even remarked (Matthew 3:16) how the "Spirit of God descended like a dove upon us." This is more than a poetic license because almost unanimously birds (of all kinds) have been viewed as celestial messengers. Doves, in particular -- with their docile appearance and soft ministrations -- can easily be angelic doppelgangers: Angels in the guise of avian benefactors.

     Coming down (just a notch) off that high-spirited comparison, doves in actuality are kind of fussy. Observe them in groups, and you'll note that they can be twitchy and nervous. It is a sign of their highly-developed sense of presence. They are intimately aware of their environment, after having been hunted for centuries.

     This kind of high sense of awareness is reminiscent of Hachiman, a Japanese God of War, who claims the dove as a sacred symbol. Amidst clamour, battle and jarring conflict, the dove of Hachiman is a symbol of peace that will (ideally) ensue after war as ended.

     The war-association with dove symbolism inevitably leads us to the concept of death. Not death, per se -- more appropriately, the dove is a symbol of the souls sojourn after physical life has retired. Slavic legend claims the dove is a symbol of the souls release from earth-bound duty. In fact, when a dove is seen, it is a clear sign of the soul's return to celestial realms. Furthermore, the dove's most popular appearance in spiritual consciousness is that of the Holy Spirit in Christian wisdom."

     Okay, I didn't read any of that, but I am not blind and I can see that last few words. What. I can't even. Grandma! Grandpa! What were you guys thinking? Were you guys thinking at all? Sheesh. Well, I guess the dove is a pretty bird...which is white. Can we have a black dove or something? Heard of black sheep of the flock? I'm probably the one black feather that discolours the white dove.

      My name, when taken together, 鸽 (ge1) meaning dove and 羽 (yu3) meaning feather means that it is completely legitimate for me to assume that I could be that one black feather, since colour is not mentioned. But doves can't have black feathers...well, I'm special.

2. Wolf Symbolism

     When I was younger, I would go back to China every year to visit my relatives. Well, those were the times when I couldn't speak a single sentence of English without inserting Chinese words. Now, I think it's the exact opposite. I'm just sitting with my relatives in a restaurant looking like a potato because my brain is trying so hard to process Chinese. The kinds of things that an English school does to you.

     Anyway, to boast about my home province, Sichuan, there is this frigging gorgeous mountainous region called Jiuzhaigou and I swear, I think it's the only place on earth that I think can compare to the beauty of New Zealand. Really, after I've been to New Zealand, it was next to impossible for me to think anywhere else is pretty...except Jiuzhaigou, because that place looks like it came right out of a painting.

     And that's just the waterfall area. When I went there in the spring, all I did was stare at it with my mouth open. You don't get to see this kind of thing in Singapore, definitely not, and all the tropical areas too. I think the transition from fall to winter was the prettiest, but that's just my preference of seasons.

     Getting back on track, there was this once where I went to live with the tribal people for a week. Okay, not exactly live with them, but that kind of experiential learning. I was too young to remember shit and I haven't asked about it, so my memory is quite vague. I just remember that my childhood friends and I were there and the village elders gave us animal totems when we left. I've lost the totems sadly, they were made of these carved pieces of wood. Mine was a wolf. Well, I was happy about it, since I've always liked wolves.

     Wolves tend to have quite bad reputation in the past, especially since they are often associated with violence and the bestial part of human nature. The wolf is supposed to represent the darkness of humans and I'm offended by that. Wolves are calm creatures and will only attack if threatened. They are the kind of animal who will respect you if you respect them and that means not trespassing their territories or breaching their comfort zones.

"Totem Wolf Meanings and Symbolism

     To understand totem wolf symbols, one must first understand the heart of the Wolf. This takes time because the Wolf has had to ensure many false stereotypes, misconceptions and misunderstandings.

     Not at all the picture of ferocity or terror, the Wolf is a creature with a high sense of loyalty and strength. Another misconception is that of the "lone wolf". To the contrary, the Wolf is actually a social creature, friendly and gregarious with its counterparts.

     The Wolf is an incredible communicator. By using touch, body movements, eye contact as well as many complex vocal expressions - the wolf makes his point understood. Those with totem wolf symbols are of the same inclination -- they are expressive both vocally and physically. Those who have the wolf as their totem animal are naturally eloquent in speech, and also have a knack for creative writing.

      Yeah well, I'm not exactly a good communicator, at least I don't think so. I sound like a bloody scholar in my head but when I speak, I think I sound like a complete idiot. Weird.

Keywords:

- Loyalty

- Cunning

- Generosity

- Intelligence

- Friendliness

- Compassionate

- Communication

     Totem wolf symbols belong to those who truly understand the depth of passion that belong to this noble creature. The Wolf is a representation of deep faith and profound understanding.

     Furthermore, the Wolf possesses a high intellect, and have been observed using strategies about hunting, habitat and migration.

     In history, the totem Wolf symbol appears with the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. Legend has it that the two founding brothers were raised and suckled by a she-wolf.

     In Norse mythology, the Wolf is a symbol for victory when ridden by Odin and Valkyries upon the battlefield.

Also, Fenrir the Unbound?

     As a Celtic symbol, the Wolf was a source of lunar power. Celtic lore states that the Wolf would hunt down the sun and devour it at each dusk so as to allow the power of the moon to come forth.

     In Asia, the wolf guards the doors that allow entrance to heavenly, celestial realms. The Wolf is also said to be among the ancestry of Genghis Khan."

     Hmmm, at this point I think it's quite fun to mention that...Do you know I share the same surname as Genghis Khan? In Chinese, Genghis Khan is written as 成吉思汗, of which the first word is my surname. Wow.