Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | When Kindness Feels One-Sided: My Journey into Global Blogging - Powered by Blogger

Over the past week, I made a major shift in the direction of my blog, Simply Asep. I transitioned from writing in Bahasa Indonesia to English — aiming to reach out and connect with a broader, international blogging community. The response was beyond what I expected. My blog has received between 600 to 2,000 daily visitors in just one week, with readers coming from various parts of the world. I felt seen. I felt hopeful.

But along with that excitement came an unexpected wave of sadness and disappointment.

Like many bloggers, I believed in the spirit of community. I took time to visit fellow bloggers’ sites, read their posts carefully, and left meaningful comments. I followed their blogs, not just for the sake of following, but because I genuinely enjoyed connecting with their stories and perspectives.

What hurt was this: many of them didn’t follow me back.

Now, I didn’t expect instant fame or a flood of compliments. But I thought maybe  just maybe  the kindness I extended would be reciprocated. It made me question things. Was it something about me? Was it because I’m from Indonesia, a Southeast Asian country not often in the global spotlight?

The thought crossed my mind: Could this be racism?

After sitting with that painful feeling for a while and observing more closely, I realized something important: it's probably not that personal. In fact, it’s likely not racism at all.

In the global blogging world, people engage in different ways. Many Western bloggers no longer use the “Follow” button on Blogger. They may read your blog through RSS feeds, bookmarks, or social media, without formally “following” you. Some are just more selective, while others simply don’t have the habit of following back.

And yes, many people are just busy. Distracted. Focused on their own lives. Online engagement can be inconsistent, and silence doesn’t always mean rejection.

My friends,

Here’s what I’ve learned — and what I want to share with others who may feel the same way:

• Focus on those who respond. When you’re growing your blog, it’s easy to feel discouraged by those who don’t reply, comment, or follow you back. But instead of focusing on who didn’t respond, shift your attention to those who did.
  
  Even one loyal reader is the start of a real community. These are the people who take the time to read, comment, and engage with your posts. Visit their blogs, build friendships, and show appreciation. Over time, these authentic connections will matter more than hundreds of silent views. Quality engagement fosters trust, and trust is the foundation of long-term blogging success.
  
  

• Keep commenting with purpose. Generic comments like “Nice post” are easy to ignore. If you want to build real connections, leave thoughtful, meaningful comments that reflect what you actually enjoyed about the post.
  
  Mention something specific a sentence, a story, a personal insight. Ask a follow-up question or share your own perspective in return. Bloggers notice genuine engagement, and they’re much more likely to visit your blog when you show that you’ve read theirs with care. It’s not about flattery — it’s about real human connection. Purposeful comments open doors to deeper blogging friendships and encourage reciprocal support over time.
  
  

• Invite engagement openly. Many bloggers hesitate to ask for support, fearing they’ll come across as needy. But a polite, warm invitation goes a long way. If someone enjoys your post, there’s nothing wrong with gently saying,
  
  “If you liked this post, feel free to follow my blog or leave a comment  I’d love to hear your thoughts!” This creates an open, welcoming environment and reminds readers that their interaction is appreciated. Some readers may enjoy your content but need a small nudge to engage more actively. Don’t be afraid to ask  you're inviting a connection, not demanding one.
  
  

• Don’t give up. It’s easy to feel invisible when you put your heart into a blog post and hear nothing back. But trust that your voice is being heard even if it’s quiet at first. Many readers don’t comment, but they are still reading and coming back. Keep going. Consistency builds visibility.
  
  Every post you write adds to your presence online. Over time, the right audience  people who truly connect with your message will find you. Stay passionate. Stay present. Don’t give up, because your journey is just beginning, and someone out there is waiting for your next post.
  
  

Blogging is about more than numbers. It’s about connection, growth, and sharing your voice. And sometimes, it takes a little longer for the world to truly listen.

So, to all my readers thank you. And to fellow bloggers, especially those just starting to reach out internationally: don’t let silence steal your spirit.

You belong here.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

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Tag : Keseharian, Teknik Blogging - Asep Haryono | My Blog Theme is a NEWS or Magazine Style - Powered by Blogger

I really appreciate when a blogger told me that the way my blog displays posts. He told me that most blogs display posts in order, with the newest at the top, second-newest below it, third-newest below that, He said that I display is very non-linear, with things kind of scattered around. It is hard to tell what order the posts come in. That may discourage some people from interacting because they don't know where to start In general, the simpler the better.

That is perfect, and I know what it is quite well.

Unfortunately that is not my type.

 Every blogger has their own style preferences in presenting his or her blog actually. You have your own style of theme for your blog. I really appreciate it. That is your Style. That is your blog. Well done.

I have my own style of my blog theme. You must recpect it too right. It is not approprite when you are trying to critize the way someone else’s display the blog post as I never critize your blog in ever way as well. It is fair enough we respect each other

If you are thinking that my display is very non-linear, with things kind of scattered around. It is hard to tell what order the posts come in. That may discourage some people from interacting because they don't know where to start. You know why? Its because my blog theme is news or magazine style.

It obviously display many catagories in which every people or visitor to my blog can decide or choose which one of those articles they would like to start reading or commenting.is

Benefits of Using a News or Magazine Theme for a Blogger Like me

If you're a blogger like me—publishing informative articles regularly on topics like travel destinations you might be wondering: What kind of blog layout works best for my content?

Well, let me introduce you to one of the most underrated yet powerful layouts in the blogging world: the News or Magazine-style theme.

Here’s why this layout could be a game-changer for my blog:

1. Professional and Organized Appearance
First impressions matter. A news-style theme immediately gives your blog a polished, trustworthy vibe—like a real online magazine or news outlet. This kind of setup neatly divides your content into sections (Business, Finance, Travel, etc.), features highlighted sliders, breaking news tickers, and attractive article thumbnails. It’s like CNN meets your blog!

2. Easy Navigation for Readers
We all know visitors don’t want to scroll endlessly just to find what they’re looking for. Magazine themes make this easier by grouping your posts under menus, categories, and tags. For example, a reader looking for “SWIFT code in Singapore” can find it right under the “Asia” or “Finance” tab without a fuss. This means more time on your blog and fewer people bouncing away.

3. Content-Rich Layout = More Articles Displayed
Are you planning to write hundreds of articles (like me)? Then you need a layout that supports content-heavy blogs. Unlike traditional blog themes that only show the latest posts, magazine themes display grids, blocks, and carousels for popular, featured, and latest articles. This keeps your older but valuable posts visible and discoverable.

4. Better SEO and Click-Through Rates
Google loves structured, well-linked blogs—and readers do too! A news-style layout often includes widgets for related posts, trending tags, and top stories, which boosts your internal linking strategy. The result? Improved search rankings and more article views per visitor.

5. Built for Monetization
Planning to make some income from your blog in the future? These themes are typically designed with monetization in mind. You can easily place Google Ads, affiliate banners, or sponsored content without disrupting the reader experience. Think of it as a blog that works hard for you in the background.

6. Builds Authority in Your Niche
Whether you’re writing about banking systems or international landmarks, how your blog looks matters as much as what it says. A magazine-style design sends a signal to readers and search engines alike: “This blog is a serious resource.” That alone can elevate your status in your niche over time.

"I never take free blog themes for granted—they’re a valuable resource for my blog. Fortunately, I have some basic knowledge of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), which allows me to edit and customize the themes to match my personal style and preferences..".

Summary
If you're planning to turn your blog into a valuable, well-organized, and monetizable content hub, a news or magazine theme might just be your best investment—especially if you're covering various global topics.

As I mentioned earlier at the beginning of this post, you are free to use any blog theme you like. You wanna get simple theme, that is okay. And its fine obviously. I always respect that

Tag : Opinion - Asep Haryono | Judaism vs. Zionism: Why They're Not the Same and Why It Matters - Powered by Blogger

When people hear the word "Zionism," they often confuse it with Judaism. But here’s the truth: Judaism is a religion, while Zionism is a political movement—and mixing the two up causes a lot of misunderstanding and unnecessary hate. In today’s world, especially on social media, it’s more important than ever to set the record straight. What is Judaism?

Let’s start simple. Judaism is a faith, one of the oldest monotheistic religions in the world. Jews follow the Torah, celebrate holidays like Passover and Hanukkah, and live by religious laws that go back thousands of years. Just like Christianity or Islam, Judaism is about beliefs, values, history, and culture.

 What is Zionism? Now, Zionism is something completely different. It’s not a religion—it’s a political movement that started in the late 1800s. It was born out of a desire to create a safe homeland for Jews who were facing antisemitism in Europe. One of the founders of Zionism, Theodor Herzl, dreamed of a place where Jews could live freely and safely. That place became the modern State of Israel in 1948.

 So, Are All Jews Zionists? Nope. And that’s where a lot of people get it wrong. Not all Jews support Zionism. In fact, many religious Jews originally opposed the movement, believing only the Messiah should lead them back to Israel—not a political organization. Even today, there are Jewish communities around the world who criticize the actions of the Israeli government or reject Zionism altogether.

Are All Zionists Jewish?
Surprisingly, no again. There are Christian Zionists, especially in the U.S., who support Israel for religious or political reasons. Some people support Zionism purely from a human rights standpoint, believing in the Jewish people’s right to self-determination, just like any other group.

The Controversy
Here’s where things get heated. The creation of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of many Palestinians, an event known as the Nakba, or “catastrophe.” For Palestinians and their supporters, Zionism isn’t just about a homeland—it’s about loss, occupation, and conflict. This is why Zionism is highly controversial in global politics today.

Criticizing the actions of Israel or its leaders is not the same as being antisemitic. But some people do cross the line—using ancient antisemitic stereotypes to attack modern political issues. That’s not okay, and it’s important to call it out when it happens.

Why It Matters
Understanding the difference between Judaism and Zionism helps prevent hate and promotes honest conversation. Saying “all Jews are Zionists” is simply false. And saying “anti-Zionism is antisemitism” is also not always true. These are two very different ideas that deserve to be discussed with clarity and respect.

Final Thoughts

Being Jewish means belonging to the Jewish people, either through religion, ethnicity, or culture. It is not inherently political. Zionism is a political movement that supports the establishment and continuation of a Jewish state, primarily in Israel. While many Jews support Zionism, not all do; some oppose it for religious or political reasons. Likewise, not all Zionists are Jewish some are non-Jewish supporters.

The two terms are often confused but represent different ideas: one is about identity, the other about political ideology. Understanding this distinction is essential in discussions about religion, politics, and the Middle East.

Let’s be smarter with our words. Let's respect faith and debate politics without mixing the two up. Whether you agree or disagree with Zionism, let’s keep the conversation respectful and grounded in facts, not stereotypes

Tag : Wisata Kuliner - Asep Haryono | My First Taste of Dutch Cup-a-Soup: An Unexpected Delight - Powered by Blogger

I am so sorry if I am not able to describe precisely just like a native English. I am just telling you about what I have got from a friend of mine who have just returned from his family visit in the Netherlands. 

ou wanna know what it was? I’m really sorry if I can’t describe things as clearly or precisely as a native English speaker. I just wanted to share something exciting that I got from a friend who recently returned from a trip to the Netherlands. Want to know what it was? Cup-a-Soup!

OMG—I’m still having trouble describing how it tastes and feels! But before I go further, let me tell you a little about what my friend brought me.

My good friend, Robert Iskandar, had just come back from visiting his sister in the Netherlands about a month ago. He brought back several sachets of Cup-a-Soup and gave some to me. These are exactly like the ones you can probably find photos of online. I won’t go into detail explaining what Cup-a-Soup is—you can easily look it up yourself.

Today, I just want to share my personal experience of trying the different flavors he gave me.

Dutch Cup-a-Soup sachets in various flavors from the Netherlands

Its written in Dutch.  I have no idea

"When I try to prepare a glass of the Cup A Soup and saw the preparation to serve in Dutch. Beats me.  Its so creamy, and tasty. Pouring hot water and enjoy in the afternoon. Its a good sign of beautiful day. "



Lost in Translation (Literally)
Unfortunately, all the information printed on the back and front of the Cup-a-Soup packaging was written in Dutch—so I had no idea how to properly prepare a cup of it. I had to figure it out myself through trial and error!

From what I can tell, it’s similar to the instant soup powders that come in various flavors and are popular worldwide. You just tear the sachet, pour the powder into a cup, add hot water, stir, and you’re done! Super convenient and perfect for a quick snack or light meal.

Here in Indonesia, the most common brand that offers this kind of soup is Knorr. You can find flavors like: Mixed Vegetable, Sweet Corn, Tomato Chatpata, Cream of Corn


My Favorite: Champignon (Cream of Mushroom)
Among all the flavors I tried, my absolute favorite was Champignon, also known as Cream of Mushroom Soup. It was creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying—especially when the weather was cool or rainy.

Cup-a-Soup is a lifesaver for busy people who want something warm and tasty but don’t have the time (or energy) to cook. No stove, no mess—just a cup, hot water, and one soup sachet. That’s it!


A Humble (and Funny) Request
If you're reading this and happen to live in a place where Cup-a-Soup is easy to find, would you mind sending a few sachets to me? I know it’s a bit hilarious since we don’t know each other—but I really love Cup-a-Soup and I can't find this Dutch version here in Indonesia.

Here’s my address if you feel generous or curious enough to send a packet or two my way:

Asep Haryono
Komplek Duta Bandara Permai
Jalan Supadio, Ahmad Yani 2
Kabupaten Kubu Raya
Kalimantan Barat
Indonesia

Email : cepot71@gmail.com
WhasApp : +6208977749155
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/asep.haryono

Thank you for reading my little story!

Even if no one sends me anything, I’m happy just to share my love for this warm, tasty delight from the Netherlands.

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Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | What the Death of Russian Influencer Arina Glazunova Can Teach Us - Powered by Blogger

What the Death of Russian Influencer Arina Glazunova Can Teach Us  Arina Glazunova, a 24-year-old Russian influencer and TikTok personality, tragically died in the early hours of September 27, 2024, in Tbilisi, Georgia. While walking through First Republic Square with a friend, she was filming herself singing

"For the Last Time" by the Russian boyband Hunger Boys. Distracted by the recording, she failed to notice the edge of an underground subway passage and tripped over a knee-high wall, falling approximately 5 meters onto concrete stairs below. She suffered severe injuries, including a fractured skull and broken neck, and was pronounced dead at a hospital later that morning

The incident was captured on video and widely shared on social media, sparking public outrage over the lack of safety measures at the site.

The wall she tripped over was only 30 centimeters high, leading many to criticize the inadequate infrastructure. In response, local residents created a memorial at the site and called for improved safety standards. Tbilisi's City Hall stated that the underpass was built according to Soviet-era standards, but the tragedy has prompted discussions about updating safety regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future

"It is best to avoid playing with gadgets while walking. This is very dangerous for yourself and the surrounding environment. Using a cellphone or gadget while walking makes your eyesight more focused on the cellphone screen. This condition makes you neglect your surroundings."

Arina was remembered for her vibrant personality, commitment to animal welfare, and work as a public relations manager after graduating from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

Lesson Learned
The internet recently mourned the heartbreaking loss of 24-year-old Russian influencer Arina Glazunova, who tragically fell to her death in Tbilisi, Georgia. While filming a lighthearted video of herself singing and dancing with a friend, she tripped over a low wall and fell down a subway stairwell.

The incident shocked her fans and sparked intense discussions about safety, distraction, and the role of public infrastructure. But beyond the tragedy, there are powerful lessons we all need to take seriously—whether we’re content creators, city residents, or everyday social media users.

In a world of non-stop notifications and video content, it’s easy to lose focus on where we’re walking. Arina’s accident happened while she was filming herself—a common activity for influencers and everyday people alike. The takeaway? Situational awareness is key. No matter how familiar a place seems, accidents can happen in a split second.

We get it—content is king. But it should never come at the cost of personal safety. This tragedy reminds us that the perfect TikTok or Instagram reel isn’t worth risking serious injury—or worse. Pause. Look around. And film safely.

The spot where Arina fell featured a 30cm (knee-high) wall without a railing—an outdated Soviet-era design. Unfortunately, that’s not uncommon in many cities around the world. Municipalities must rethink infrastructure with modern safety standards. Something as simple as a guardrail could save lives.


"There are lots of video of this tragic of Arina appeared on social media posts.  Just use the keyword like "arina glazunova death", all video lists will comes out.  I will not upload any of the videos here. Its too graphic which some people feel so disturbing"

Have you ever walked by a place and thought, “This seems dangerous”? Speak up. Cities should encourage residents to report hazards, and officials must listen. Transparency and action go a long way in making urban areas safer for everyone. Influencers have massive reach—and responsibility. Imagine if content creators started adding “safety first” messages to their posts or showed how they prep safe filming spots. Those little reminders could have a big impact on impressionable followers.

It’s easy to move on after the headlines fade. But real honor comes through action. Arina’s death should inspire governments to improve infrastructure and creators to prioritize safety. Tragedies are painful—but they don’t have to be pointless.

What Next
The loss of Arina Glazunova is deeply saddening. Yet, from her story, we are reminded of a bigger truth: in our hyper-digital age, mindfulness matters more than ever. Let’s stay alert, advocate for safer spaces, and remind ourselves that no viral moment is worth more than our lives.

If this story moved you, share it to raise awareness.
Remind others that no post, no reel, and no content is worth more than life itself.

Speak up about unsafe public spaces

Join the conversation in the comments:

What steps can we take to make our cities and our content safer?

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Travelling - Asep Haryono | Enjoying Nasi Jinggo in POP HARRIS , Bali - Powered by Blogger

BALI Do you know about "Nasi Kucing"? Have you ever heard of this delicious and traditional food from Jogjakarta, Central Java, Indonesia? I’ve visited Jogjakarta twice, and my most recent visit was in early November 2010, during the Merapi eruption.This brings back memories of Bali, a place I’ve visited ten times. I was lucky enough to enjoy "Nasi Jinggo" there.

Unlike Nasi Kucing, which is famous for its tasty flavor and simple recipe, Nasi Jinggo in Bali has its own unique charm. I could easily find it while I was staying at POP! Hotel Harris, located on Jalan Teuku Umar, Denpasar, Bali, during my visit in April 2011. The hotel is not far from Ngurah Rai International Airport—it takes about 25 minutes to reach the hotel from the airport.

The first thing that catches your attention when you see Nasi Jinggo is its appearance, which closely resembles the shape of a hat. What do I mean by that? Well, just look at the outside of the wrapped Nasi Jinggo. What comes to your mind? Doesn’t it look like a small hat? Yes, exactly! Its presentation is quite unique and charming, don’t you think?

ITS ME WITH NASI JINGGO: In Jogjakarta, there is Nasi Kucing, while in Bali, there is a dish called Nasi Jinggo. The side dishes typically include shredded fish, pieces of egg, noodles, and spicy sambal ulek, which is one of its signature characteristics
.Photo by Syahrir Badulu / Champion from Makassar

Small and Cheap
While staying at the hotel, I explored the area around Jalan Teuku Umar and discovered that it’s filled with local food stalls and cellular phone shops on nearly every corner of the street. Some people told me that you can find many types of cellphones in this area at competitive prices. At the time,

I was actually planning to buy a small cellphone, but in the end, I didn’t go through with it—though I’m sure I could have found a great deal there. Let me give you a quick description of POP! Hotel Harris on Jalan Teuku Umar, Denpasar,

"Nasi Jinggo (sometimes spelled Jenggo) is a rice-based meal wrapped in banana leaves, typically served in small portions. It’s commonly sold by street vendors, especially in Denpasar, Pasar Badung, Pasar Kumbasari, and near temples or busy street corners in Bali.Each portion usually contains:A small scoop of rice,A piece of tempeh or noodles,A slice of egg (boiled or omelet-style),A bit of shredded chicken or fried tuna. And most importantly, a generous serving of sambal ulek (crushed chili paste).Some variations may include fried peanuts, serundeng (grated coconut with spices), or beef floss (abon sapi) depending on the vendor.".

Bali. This hotel offers friendly and warm service for guests from all across Indonesia and around the world. One of my Balinese friends told me that the hotel is also known for serving Nasi Jinggo as part of their breakfast menu. Interestingly,

A video of Pop Harris Hotel in Teuku Umar, BALI. Indonesia
Video edited by me. I spoke Indonesian. I am sorry
All Right Reserved video by Asep Haryono

A short video of my room during the KangGURU Consultative Group event discussing the JOEY program in Bali on April 12, 2011. I shared the room at Pop Harris with Syahrir Badulu, a Master Trainer from Makassar. It was quite tidy, nice, and had funky colors. However, the room felt a bit cramped for my taste, and unfortunately, there was no laundry service. Still, Pop Harris is a really cool and relaxing place. If you ever visit Bali, it's up to you whether you want to stay at Pop Harris. Cheersssssss!

I didn’t notice this food while I was driving from Ngurah Rai Airport to the hotel. I even recorded a short video at the hotel on April 11, 2011, during my stay there with six other Kang Guru Indonesia champions. We were attending a small presentation and workshop organized by Kang Guru Indonesia, in collaboration with the Indonesia Australia Language Foundation (I/A/L/F) and funded by the Australian Government

The concept of the hotel is designed to provide the best service for budget travelers, just like myself. It offers modern hotel facilities with several free amenities for those enjoying their vacation in a simple, modest, and affordable way. It’s a smart and eco-friendly type of hotel. Even with a small budget, you can stay here comfortably at an affordable price.

I stayed at this hotel in April 2011 with my companion, Mr. Syahrir Badulu from Makassar, South Sulawesi. During my stay, I discovered many convenient services offered by the hotel. For example, they provided free internet access in the hotel lobby, and guests were given a password upon check-in.

One of the details I really appreciated was the high-quality linen—100% cotton. The white blanket provided in the room was both warm and soft, making it very comfortable to sleep with. I liked it a lot!

Its me at the reception desk at Pop Harris Hotel in Bali. The photo taken about 2011. Its not good picture I guess but at least this a proove right

More Excellent Services
The hotel also offers several other excellent services and amenities. These include rooms with king-sized beds, a safe deposit box with a key code, a wonderful bathroom, cable TV, and CCTV security throughout the hotel. You can even enjoy massage services and a food outlet on-site.

One unique feature I found inside the room was the third bed, which reminded me of a “bangsal” (hospital-style bed). It had a black leather design, which was quite unusual and interesting to see in a hotel room.

 Free Nasi Jinggo
Now it’s time to share my personal experience with Nasi Jinggo, one of the best services offered by POP! Hotel Harris. This food was free of charge and part of the hotel’s facilities for visitors. You simply step out of your room and head to the “Quick Bite” area located in the hotel lobby, where many guests gather to enjoy this simple yet tasty meal.

I took some photos of the Nasi Jinggo with my own digital camera, and they are already displayed here (or on my blog, depending on where you post this).

A friend of mine, Gung Dwinta, a young Balinese woman originally from Bali, confirmed over the phone that Nasi Jinggo is very affordable and can also be found easily around Pasar Badung and Pasar Kumbasari in Denpasar.

I Gede Suparta, a taxi driver, told me that Nasi Jinggo is very cheap and can be enjoyed by people of all ages without worrying about the ingredients used. I found that the contents of Nasi Jinggo are very common and can be found all across Indonesia—such as noodles, fish, tempeh, and some local recipes.

If you eat Nasi Kucing anywhere in the heart of Jogjakarta, you will certainly get “lauk pauk” (side dishes in English). I think the typical menu includes ikan teri (small dried anchovies), tempeh, abon sapi (shredded dried beef), and of course, hot chili.

The size of Nasi Kucing is quite small, so small it’s considered fit to feed a cat—hence the name Nasi Kucing or in Javanese called “Sego Kucing.” On the other hand, when you eat Nasi Jinggo, the menu is a bit different. It usually includes a small slice of steamed egg, a little fish, and chicken. The fish might be tuna or something similar. It really tastes good.

One common characteristic of Nasi Jinggo is that it is “pedas” or spicy. Most Nasi Jinggo comes with chili, so you will definitely need some cool water to soothe your mouth after eating it. Remember, you usually only take Nasi Jinggo once a day, especially at breakfast time. Need more? Just go outside the hotel and find them easily.

Have You Tried Nasi Jinggo or Nasi Kucing?

If you've ever tasted Nasi Jinggo in Bali or Nasi Kucing in Jogjakarta, I’d love to hear about your experience! How did it taste? Which one do you prefer?

✅ Leave a comment below and share your food story with me. .

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Feel free to leave a comment down below—I’d love to hear from you. If you'd like to support, just click the small Donate button above. I really appreciate your visit. See you around!. Thank you so much one more time".  Greetings from Indonesia "

Tag : entertainment - Asep Haryono | The Real Story Behind "Soldier of Fortune" - What the Song Really Means - Powered by Blogger

Are you guys familiar with "Soldier of Fortune" by Deep Purple—a hauntingly beautiful ballad that has resonated with listeners for decades.

Released in 1974 on their album Stormbringer, the song was written by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and vocalist David Coverdale. Despite not being released as a single, it has become a fan favorite and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.

The lyrics depict the life of a drifter, someone who has wandered through life without a clear direction, relying on fate and chance—hence the term "soldier of fortune." The song reflects on themes of longing, missed opportunities, and the passage of time

Do you guys like liket? I'm glad you liked it! I can’t play music directly, but I can guide you to where it lives online—like YouTube, Spotify, or other streaming platforms. "Soldier of Fortune" really is a powerful song—emotional, reflective, and timeless. If you ever want to explore more songs like it, analyze the lyrics, or even write something inspired by it

Photo by Nick Soveiko, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

"Soldier of Fortune" is often misunderstood.
On the surface, the title might suggest a literal mercenary or war-hardened soldier, but the true meaning is far more emotional and poetic. 🎸 The Real Story Behind "Soldier of Fortune"

1. The Writers & Their Intent:
The song was written by Ritchie Blackmore (guitar) and David Coverdale (vocals) for Deep Purple’s Stormbringer album in 1974. At the time, Blackmore was growing tired of Deep Purple’s shift toward funkier styles. He longed for more melodic, introspective music—and this song was his outlet for that yearning.

 David Coverdale, in interviews, has described "Soldier of Fortune" not as a song about war, but about a lonely traveler, a wanderer, and the emotional cost of searching for something—possibly love, purpose, or a place to belong.  “It’s not about a literal soldier. It’s about a man who’s been searching for something—maybe his whole life—and hasn’t found it.” – David Coverdale

2. Metaphorical Meaning of the Title:

 The phrase "soldier of fortune" typically means a person who lives by their wits or by chance, often traveling, taking risks, and never settling. In the song, it symbolizes a man who's drifted through life, possibly guided by fate rather than purpose.

 The lyrics like: “I have often told you stories about the way / I lived the life of a drifter, waiting for the day...” ...show the speaker reflecting on a life filled with restlessness, regret, and longing—not violence or glory.

3. Why It’s Misunderstood:
 The term "soldier" often brings war to mind. But in this case, it’s a metaphor for a heart-weary, emotionally scarred person, not a combat veteran. The haunting guitar, the sad melody, and Coverdale’s soulful delivery all underline that this is a song of reflection, not battle. In Summary: ✅ Not about war or a literal soldier  It’s a poetic tale of emotional wandering, longing, and lost opportunities 🎶 Written by artists who were emotionally exploring themes of purpose and belongingk


The True Meaning Behind "Soldier of Fortune" by Deep Purple
Despite its title, "Soldier of Fortune" by Deep Purple is often misunderstood. While many interpret it as a story about a war-loving soldier, the real meaning is far more emotional and introspective. Written by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and vocalist David Coverdale in 1974, the song reflects the inner world of a drifter—someone who has spent their life searching for meaning, belonging, or love, often guided by fate rather than purpose.

The term "soldier of fortune" here is metaphorical, symbolizing a lonely traveler rather than a literal soldier. David Coverdale has explained in interviews that the song is about the emotional journey of a man who has wandered through life with longing and regret, not one of war or violence. The gentle guitar, haunting melody, and soulful lyrics reinforce the song's true essence: a deeply human story of reflection and solitude.


“What does ‘Soldier of Fortune’ mean to you?
Let me know in the comments!
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Tag : Opinion - Asep Haryono | Anti-Zionism vs. Antisemitism: Clearing Up Common Confusions - Powered by Blogger

If you've been scrolling through social media or watching the news lately, you've probably come across the term "anti-Zionism." But what does it really mean? Is it the same as antisemitism? Why is it so controversial? In this post, we’ll break it down in a simple, honest way—no politics, just facts.

So, What Is Anti-Zionism?.

To understand anti-Zionism, you first need to know what Zionism is..

Zionism is the political movement that began in the late 19th century, aimed at creating a Jewish homeland in what is now the State of Israel. It was a response to centuries of antisemitism and persecution, especially in Europe. Anti-Zionism, then, is the opposition to that movement—whether it's the idea of a Jewish state in the first place, or the modern policies of the Israeli government today. But here's the catch: Not everyone who is anti-Zionist means the same thing.

Why Are Some People Anti-Zionist?
There are many reasons why someone might oppose Zionism—and they come from different backgrounds and beliefs.

🔸 1. Political or Human Rights Concerns Many Palestinians and their supporters are anti-Zionist because they see the creation of Israel as a catastrophe (Nakba) that led to displacement, violence, and occupation. They believe that Zionism has contributed to the ongoing denial of Palestinian rights and sovereignty..

.For them, being anti-Zionist isn’t about religion or ethnicity—it’s about justice and land.

🔸 2. Religious Jews Against Zionism Yes, you read that right. Some religious Jewish groups—like Neturei Karta—are strongly anti-Zionist. Why? Because they believe only God or the Messiah should bring the Jewish people back to the Holy Land. In their view, creating a Jewish state through politics goes against their religious beliefs. 🔸 3. Secular or Left-Wing Critics.

.Many leftist thinkers and human rights advocates oppose Zionism because they view it as a form of ethno-nationalism. They argue that any state based on one religion or ethnicity—whether Jewish, Muslim, or Christian—can lead to inequality and exclusion of others.

So for them, anti-Zionism is part of a broader fight against racism and colonialism. Is Anti-Zionism the Same as Antisemitism? This is where things get tricky—and emotional. Some people argue that anti-Zionism is antisemitism, because it targets the only Jewish state in the world and often uses antisemitic language or symbols.

Others say that criticizing a political movement or a government is not the same as hating Jewish people. 👉 The truth? It depends on how it’s expressed. Legitimate criticism of Zionism or Israel’s policies? That’s not antisemitism. Denying Jewish people the right to have a homeland while supporting it for others? That might be. Using antisemitic stereotypes to attack Zionism? Absolutely antisemitic. So yes, anti-Zionism can overlap with antisemitism, but they are not always the same thing..

Why It Matters In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s easy to label people or movements without understanding the full picture. But the difference between Zionism, anti-Zionism, and antisemitism really matters—especially if we want to have honest, respectful conversations. Not every Jew is a Zionist. Not every anti-Zionist is an antisemite. But if we don’t talk clearly about what these terms mean, we risk making things worse for everyone..

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Final Thoughts
You don’t have to agree with Zionism or support Israeli policies to respect Jewish people’s rights and dignity. And you don’t have to be Jewish to stand up for Palestinian rights and justice. What we all need is more understanding and less shouting..
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Join the Conversation!
Understanding complex topics like Zionism and anti-Zionism starts with honest dialogue. Share your thoughts in the comments below—respectfully, of course.

Let’s learn from one another, challenge ideas, and promote peace through knowledge. 📢 Don’t forget to share this post if you found it helpful

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