QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown wrote, “Men go to far greater lengths to avoid what they fear than to obtain what they desire.”

Fears and anxieties are normal and, unfortunately for us, pretty unavoidable. Whether it’s public speaking, trying something new, or thinking about the future, everybody has something that makes them a bit anxious or afraid. It’s seemingly part of being a human.

But, as tempting as it may be, don’t let your fear stop you from exploring your future and pursuing your goals. Trying and failing often feels better than not trying at all.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 30

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Who Bans Books in the U.S.—And What are They So Afraid of? | 5 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Tuesday, October 31

Tricks and Treats from the Vault | 12-2 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Public | Treats Served

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, November 1

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Who Bans Books in the U.S.—And What are They So Afraid of? | 5 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Ron Howard’s A Beautiful Mind (2001) | 5:30 p.m. | VR3, Falvey Ground Floor | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, November 2

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Senghor-Damas-Césaire Lecture for Africana Studies Featuring Wale Adebanwi, PhD. | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Sunday, November 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

For fans of this divisive candy, today, Oct. 30, is National Candy Corn Day. Personally, although it’s not my favorite candy by any means, I think the bad rap candy corn gets doesn’t do it justice. It’s nothing if not whimsical and festive. For anyone on the pro-candy corn side of the debate, today is for you.

As I’m sure you probably know, Halloween is this Tuesday, Oct. 31, but did you know that it’s also National Caramel Apple Day? If you want a Halloween treat that’s more substantive and a bit more nutritious than candy, you can enjoy this classic fall treat.

Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash

Wednesday, Nov. 1 is National Stress Awareness Day. With the semester ramping up, it’s easy to get caught up in papers, exams, and projects, but be sure to give yourself time to relax and recharge. Avoiding burnout now might just help you come finals week. Fittingly, Wednesday is also Scented Candle Day. So, if you’re living off-campus, light your favorite scented candle and de-stress with some aromatherapy. If you’re living on-campus, even spraying a nice air freshener can help you relax.

Don’t feel like cooking? National Chinese Takeout Day is this Sunday, Nov. 5. If you want to enjoy some good comfort food (and support a local business), order some Chinese takeout.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.