Recently, I visited a place called Okutama, which is known for its beautiful natural scenery. There is a lake named Tama Lake, and the whole area is very calm, peaceful, and surrounded by rich nature. On the day I went, the weather was perfect. It was sunny, warm, and comfortable, so I could spend my time relaxing and enjoying the quiet atmosphere. I walked around the lake, took in the fresh air, and felt completely refreshed by the beautiful views. Actually, I had been sick with a cold for about a week before the day, so I was still feeling a bit tired. Because of that, the visit to Okutama felt even more special. Being in nature helped me recover both physically and mentally. The warm sunshine, the sound of the water, and the slow pace of the day all made me feel calm and relaxed. It was exactly the break I needed. I realized how important it is to take time away from busy daily life and spend moments in nature. This trip became a wonderful memory, and I hope to visit Okutama again when I need a peaceful escape.

The Performance Trap — When Your Voice Stops Feeling Like You Have you ever had a moment where speaking English suddenly felt like stepping into a version of yourself you don’t quite recognize? As if you’re present… but not fully you? Many learners — especially women balancing responsibility, expectations, and pressure — describe this strange shift. They don’t lose their English. They lose their sense of comfort inside it. This moment often creates what feels like a quiet “performance.” Your body becomes a little more careful. Your words become a little more controlled. And your natural presence feels slightly out of reach. It’s not about being unprepared. It’s not about lacking vocabulary. It’s about the subtle instinct to appear composed when you don’t fully feel that way. This instinct is deeply human. It’s something many people experience when they want to sound capable, clear, or confident — but internally feel pressure, doubt, or emotional tension. And every performance, even a polite one, has a small cost: The more you try to “sound right,” the further you drift from your natural rhythm. So before your next conversation, try asking yourself: “Am I speaking to express — or to impress?” Sometimes the key to sounding more natural isn’t saying more… but giving your real voice a little more room to breathe.

有外国人想要学中文的吗？ CHA：89/节

Swahili learners!! How is it going for you?

Hi! I left Georgia today. There were very beautiful mountains, especially in the city Stepantsminda. I liked Georgia really much. There were kind people most of all and many cats.

Have you heard of the idiom, "to get burned?" Check your understanding with this quiz question.

What are some successful examples of environmental protection?