Author: Mario Bekes
During the height of the holiday season, the Christmas Snowball assumes the significance of a profound metaphor for existence, in addition to being a beloved adornment. The glass dome encloses a tranquil and exquisitely beautiful realm, which stands in striking contrast to the turbulent and uncertain conditions that permeate the... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
“She appears to be a girl, but she is actually a flame. “She’s so bright, she can burn your eyes, so look the other way.” It was June 2016, and bitcoin was a big issue, with investors scurrying for profits. Ruja Ignatova took the stage in a flowing burgundy gown... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
China’s Strategy for Global Digital Dominance. “Public opinion warfare,” “psychological warfare,” and “information warfare” are all terms that describe the same overarching strategy that the 50 Cent Army represents: the attempt to influence online discourse and perception. China is not alone in using this tactic; several international organisations and governments... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
This was the statement they kept reciting to us in school, and I’ll never forget it. I guarantee you that I didn’t give it much thought at the time—who thinks about history in school? —and I didn’t take the comment seriously. Based on my life experiences, I’ve concluded that many... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
In a few weeks, an amazing event will unfold, testing the limits of age, resilience, and the human spirit. At 51, I plan to return to the boxing ring, not just as a fighter, but as a symbol of steadfast dedication and proof that the unthinkable can be made possible.... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
True Cold War story: Because the British did not trust his wife, the most efficient Russian spy was able to depart. Because British intelligence misinterpreted the intriguing features of his ex-wife’s comments as jealously, they ignored a message that may have revealed one of the most experienced Soviet operatives, Harry... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
It was a vicious circle. The Soviets refused to believe that the Americans were bluffing; in turn, the Americans suspected that the Soviets were bluffing, even if they did not believe the Americans were doing so. How did a regular military rehearsal come dangerously close to causing a nuclear exchange?... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
I recall my father saying as a kid, “Walls have ears.” This was not in reference to secret police spying on everyone and each citizen; rather, it was in reference to your own neighbour spying on you. Later, when I applied to military school (high school), my grandfather took me... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
While your eyes are hooked to the TV screen, mobile device, or tablet, and you are enjoying watching content generated by “average Joe turned celebrity from America (list is too long),” individuals you respect are robbing you of your money, dreams, and desires. You are probably wondering how. This article... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
I remember standing in front of the local grocery store from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., then my mother from 2 p.m. to midnight, and then my father from midnight to 7 a.m. the next day in order for my parents to buy one kilo of salt, sugar, and coffee,... View Article