Cathedral Effect

Cathedral Effect explores the human condition through short stories, analyzing why we're here and where we're going. It delves into personal growth, relationships, cultural reflections, the impact of history and art, and philosophical inquiries into existence, highlighting moments of clarity, regret, and the search for meaning.

Personal Growth Relationships Cultural Reflections Historical Significance Art and Expression Philosophy and Existence Travel and Exploration Work and Leisure Society and Values Death and Dying

The hottest Substack posts of Cathedral Effect

And their main takeaways

Time Travel For Dummies

39 implied HN points • 18 Jan 21
  1. Time travel guide warns about navigating depressing futures
  2. Main character explores various timelines in search of love
  3. Book discusses the philosophical and technological aspects of time travel

On relaxation

39 implied HN points • 17 Jan 21
  1. We often seek relaxation by escaping into stories filled with trauma and problems
  2. Our fascination with trauma extends to our subconscious, influencing our dreams
  3. Although we avoid personal trauma, we find enjoyment in observing it in stories

Things I've learned from stuff I've read

39 implied HN points • 26 Dec 20
  1. The newsletter is about things the author has learned from reading
  2. It was started to replace time spent on social media with a meaningful activity
  3. The target audience is the author's close friends and family

On going through the motions

19 implied HN points • 27 Aug 21
  1. Many people go through life just going through the motions, not making deliberate choices.
  2. Important decisions should be intentional and personally-driven, not just following the flow.
  3. Taking time to deliberate and seek advice can lead to making choices that align with personal values and goals.

On Nashville

19 implied HN points • 30 Jul 21
  1. Nashville offers free high-quality live music everywhere
  2. Restaurants in Nashville have full-service bars, even casual spots
  3. Nashville's gentrification is evident with rising construction and influx of newcomers
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On being Asian in America

19 implied HN points • 23 Jul 21
  1. Ethnic identity in America can be complex, especially for Asian-Americans
  2. Hyphenation and acronyms can oversimplify and generalize diverse groups
  3. Physical appearance often plays a significant role in racial identity and grouping

On the case for religion

19 implied HN points • 16 Jul 21
  1. World War II is often portrayed in clear moral terms with obvious good and evil sides.
  2. We tend to empathize with exceptional moral characters, like Schindler, but fail to acknowledge our own moral limitations.
  3. Having a moral anchor, like religion, can help guide us in turbulent times and prevent moral backsliding as a society.

On why you should own real estate in France

19 implied HN points • 25 Jun 21
  1. Appreciation in property value may not translate to huge financial gains when selling
  2. Buying property in France through a viager agreement offers unique advantages and risks
  3. Viager agreements in France involve delayed ownership but can be beneficial for both parties

On the scariest part about love

19 implied HN points • 04 Jun 21
  1. The scariest part about love is the potential of one person dying and leaving the other behind.
  2. We often focus on finding the perfect partner, but not enough on coping if that partner passes away.
  3. Love can be resilient, but time constraints and death make the fear of being left behind or leaving our partner essential in choosing wisely.

On altruism

19 implied HN points • 14 May 21
  1. All human lives are equal in value.
  2. When doing good, aim to do the most good possible.
  3. Effective altruism encourages maximizing impact of donations.

On tiki bars

19 implied HN points • 26 Feb 21
  1. Tiki bars have tropical ambiance and drinks, but lack specificity in their theme
  2. Tiki bars could enhance their offerings by serving culturally specific, delicious islander food
  3. There is a potential business opportunity for culturally specific tiki bars to serve both refreshing cocktails and savory islander dishes

On Judas and bilingualism

19 implied HN points • 04 Jan 21
  1. Dante viewed Judas's betrayal as the worst sin, leading to eternal punishment.
  2. Judas's motivation for betrayal could be tied to his identity as a 'Zealot.'
  3. Bilingualism has benefits like empathy development and potential slowing of dementia onset.

Since the Flood [Part 2]

0 implied HN points • 18 Jun 21
  1. A young man named Jehoshaphat in a village faces suspicion and mysterious disappearances of fellow fishermen.
  2. The village leader Obed devises a bold plan to confront a powerful figure named Eleazar and sets up a negotiation trip to the Ark.
  3. Tensions rise in the village as power plays and alliances shift, leading to a potential clash between Obed and Eleazar.

Searching for Beauty

0 implied HN points • 03 Sep 21
  1. Earth's inhabitants focus on individual self-expression in art over collective beauty
  2. Technology and art on Earth are viewed as separate concepts
  3. Art's value on Earth is often tied to the name of the creator

On pidgin languages

0 implied HN points • 11 Jan 21
  1. Pidgin languages blend two or more languages and are wonderfully simple.
  2. Pidgin languages use few verb tenses while still conveying the message clearly.
  3. Some pidgin languages arise from unique situations of linguistic contact.

On stories

0 implied HN points • 20 Jan 21
  1. Humans love stories and they have become an integral part of our lives.
  2. Stories may have originated as a way to attract mates or as a tool for learning through simulation.
  3. Stories are valuable because they allow us to learn from the mistakes of others and navigate the world safely.

On my favorite pit stops

0 implied HN points • 26 Mar 21
  1. Road trips can be challenging but there are pockets of goodness along the way.
  2. Primm, Harris Ranch, and gas stations in the Philippines are unique pit stops with interesting offerings.
  3. Placerville, California is known for its whimsical stops along the highway that can cause delays but are essential for the local economy.

Since the Flood [Part 1]

0 implied HN points • 11 Jun 21
  1. The village is facing changes after the Flood and needs to adapt.
  2. Tensions arise over the annual tribute payment and village leadership.
  3. Jehoshaphat's proposal to halt tribute payment leads to a risky plan with potential betrayal.