A faded and cracked felt bicorne hat worn by Napoléon Bonaparte sold for $2.1 million at an auction Sunday of the French emperor’s belongings. Yes, $2.1 million. The signature broad, black hat — one of a handful still in existence that Napoléon wore when he ruled 19th-century France and waged war in Europe — was initially valued at 600,000 to 800,000 euros ($650,000-870,000). It was the centerpiece of Sunday's auction in Fontainebleau of memorabilia collected by a French industrialist who died last year. READ: Princess Diana’s iconic black sheep sweater could fetch at least $50,000 at auction But the bidding quickly jumped higher and higher until Jean Pierre Osenat, president of the Osenat auction house, designated the winner. ‘’We are at 1.5 million (euros) for Napoleon’s hat ... for this major symbol of the Napoleonic epoch,'' he said, as applause rang out in the auction hall. The buyer, whose identity was not released, must pay 28.8% in commissions according to Osenat, bringing the overall cost to 1.9 million euros ($2.1 million). While other officers customarily wore their bicorne hats with the wings facing front to back, Napoleon wore his with the ends pointing toward his shoulders. The style — known as “en bataille,” or in battle — made it easier for his troops to spot their leader in combat. The hat on sale was first recovered by Col. Pierre Baillon, a quartermaster under Napoléon, according to the auctioneers. The hat then passed through many hands before industrialist Jean-Louis Noisiez acquired it. READ: Maradona's 'Hand of God' ball expected to rake in $2.7m-$3.3m at auction The entrepreneur spent more than a half-century assembling his collection of Napoleonic memorabilia, firearms, swords and coins before his death in 2022. The sale came days before the release of Ridley Scott's film ‘’Napoleon'' with Joaquin Phoenix, which is rekindling interest in the controversial French ruler.

Weekends are like a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This period offers a precious window for rejuvenation and self-expression. However, avoiding the pitfalls of idleness and monotony during these treasured days is pivotal. It is the time to shun procrastination and embrace creativity, ensuring these moments are not squandered in lethargy. Engaging in diverse entertaining and stimulating activities can transform weekends into an enriching experience, igniting a sense of fulfilment. 10 Creative Ways to Spend Your Weekends Reading You may immerse yourself in a captivating book during the weekend to explore new worlds, gain knowledge, and engage your mind. Reading goes beyond mere entertainment; it expands horizons, fosters empathy, and acquires knowledge.  Read more: Benefits of Reading Habit for Mind and Body Traversing the lines of a well-crafted story or delving into informative texts engages your mind in discovery and enrichment. Relaxation blends with mental stimulation as reading deepens your understanding of the world. Altogether it is a perfect choice for a fulfilling weekend activity.

As the world grappled with the reality of the pandemic, most of the academic activities across the world moved to online platforms. Educational institutions utilized technological tools to provide classes and even hold exams. And with that, the concept of distance learning resurged in the limelight. Many renowned universities offered distance learning even before the pandemic. With time, it is becoming a popular and convenient way of attaining a higher degree. This article looks at some of the best international universities providing distance learning opportunities.  What is Distance Learning?  The concept of distance learning is nothing new. The earliest example of distance learning dates back to the 1840s. Back then, Sir Issac Pitman taught shorthand to his students via postal mail. However, today’s concept of distance learning largely differs from that of the 1800s.  Distance learning today essentially mimics an actual classroom with teachers and students. Universities across the globe partner with platforms like Coursera, and edX to provide certification courses to aspiring students. Some universities offer these courses on their own platform. Recently, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are also made available through distance learning opportunities.  Read more: Best Countries for Bachelor's Degree in 2023 8 Best Universities in the World with Distance Learning Opportunities  This list includes universities offering certificate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It's important to note that distance learning bachelor’s programs are less common than master’s or certificate courses.  University College London  University College London or UCL was founded in 1826. It was established after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. In addition to their London campus, the university has campuses in Qatar and Australia.  UCL has 11 academic wings ranging from arts and humanities to medical sciences. It ranks 12th in US News’ list of Best Global Universities. The university offers 403 undergraduate degrees. Additionally, it offers 621 master’s degrees, and 271 online courses/degrees. The online courses are a mix of certificate as well as postgraduate degrees in all of their available academic wings.  Read more: Cheapest countries for Bangladeshi students for higher studies

In today's world, parents often face a significant dilemma when raising a teenager. During this stage of life, the teens strive for independence while still requiring guidance and support from their parents. Striking the right balance between being a parent and being a friend to an adolescent child is quite challenging. Let’s take a look at some effective tips for parents to establish a strong, supportive, and amicable relationship with their teenage children. 10 Tips for Parents to Form Friendship with Their Adolescent Children Open Communication Strong parent-teen bond hinges on effective communication. Parents should endeavour to foster open, non-judgemental dialogues with their teenage sons and daughters. It creates a safe space for them to freely express their thoughts and emotions. It is essential to bear in mind that actively listening, rather than merely hearing, conveys a genuine interest in their perspective. Allowing them the freedom to convey their feelings and ideas, even in cases of disagreement, nurtures trust. Trust, nurtured through open, non-judgemental conversations, forms the foundation of a healthy, enduring relationship with adolescents. Read more: Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe Respect Their Independence Adolescents strongly desire independence. Granting freedom at a certain level enables them to learn from both their triumphs and missteps, fostering personal growth. Trusting their judgement, even when it may seem risky, demonstrates faith in their abilities and boosts their self-esteem. However, maintaining a guiding presence is equally important, stepping in when necessary to provide advice and support. Striking this balance of trust and guidance empowers teenagers to become responsible, self-reliant individuals. It also shows that they can turn to parents when needed. Shared Interests Discovering shared hobbies or interests is a powerful way to nurture parent-teen friendships. These mutual activities can be anything, from participating in a sport to pursuing a shared hobby or even jointly binge-watching a TV show. Read more: Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention Engaging in such activities forges a unique bond that transcends the conventional parent-child dynamic. It connects on a personal level and promotes not just enjoyable moments but also meaningful conversations. Sharing interests deepens the connection, rendering the relationship more enjoyable.

Loneliness, a pervasive emotion, can cast a shadow on one's life. The ache of isolation often pushes individuals to seek solace in social interactions. Yet, embracing one's solitude is fulfilling. Learning to savor our own company is a transformative journey. It empowers us to turn loneliness into a liberating experience.  10 Tips to Love Yourself and Stay Happy Alone Avoid Comparison When one consistently measures their worth against another person's life or accomplishments, they disregard their unique journey. They should embrace individuality, appreciate the path taken, and recognize that each person's journey is distinctive.  It is important to focus on personal progress and growth. It fosters a sense of contentment and happiness in one's own narrative. So, it is best to celebrate uniqueness without seeking validation from external sources. Read more: 15 Japanese Concepts for Personal and Professional Development Disconnect from Social Media Taking a step back from social media allows individuals to reclaim their authentic selves. In this digital age, social platforms often perpetuate a distorted sense of reality. It contributes to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.  By unplugging and refocusing on real-life connections and experiences, one can break free from the comparison trap. Try to rediscover genuine human interaction and find solace in the present moment without the pressure of online portrayals. Embrace a Peaceful Past Letting go of past burdens is a pivotal step toward finding contentment in solitude. Harboring resentment, regret, or grievances from yesterday can cloud one's present and impede personal growth.  Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career Accepting and making peace with the past, understanding that it shaped the broken person they are today, enables a lighter heart and a clearer mind. By forgiving themselves and others, they can liberate their spirit, allowing space for joy and serenity in the present. Rediscover Passions Rekindling hobbies and interests is a pathway to self-discovery and fulfillment. Often, in the hustle of daily life, personal passions take a backseat. By reigniting these flames of enthusiasm, individuals can reconnect with their true selves. Whether it is painting, writing, gardening, or playing an instrument, engaging in what once brought them joy can provide a sense of purpose and contentment in their own company.

Earthquakes are natural disasters that can strike without warning and leave devastation in their wake. These powerful tremors can be especially frightening to children. Let’s take a look at some essential earthquake safety tips for parents to ensure their children's safety and well-being.  Tips to Keep Children Safe During and After an Earthquake  The following guidelines can provide parents with the essential knowledge to keep their children safe during and after earthquakes.  Create a Family Emergency Plan Creating a Family Emergency Plan is the foundation of disaster readiness. It involves establishing specific meeting locations within and outside home, ensuring everyone, especially children, knows where to gather during an earthquake or other emergencies. This plan enhances safety and preparedness for your entire family. Read more: Turkey Earthquake: Why Did So Many Buildings Collapse? Educate Your Children Educating children about earthquakes is crucial for their safety. Parents should engage them in open conversations, emphasizing the need to remain calm during seismic events. It is recommended to apply language suited to the age of children to make them understand the situation without inducing undue fear. It will empower them to respond confidently in such situations. Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On Practicing 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' with children is vital to earthquake preparedness. Parents  can teach their kids activities like instinctively dropping to the ground, seeking shelter under sturdy furniture, and holding on during tremors. These simple yet effective techniques can ensure their safety until the earthquake subsides. Identify Safe Zones It would be better to teach children to recognize areas free from hazards. Identifying safe zones within each room is crucial for earthquake safety. Parents may encourage them to stay in these designated safe spots during an earthquake. It will reduce the risk of injury from falling debris or shattered glass.  Read more: 6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes part of Philippines southwest of the capital

Self-improvement is a universal aspiration, and Japanese culture offers a treasure trove of wisdom and philosophies that can help enhance the quality of our lives. These concepts not only provide valuable insights but also inspire personal growth and well-being. In this article, we will explore some of these Japanese concepts that can guide you towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. 15 Japanese Concepts to Improve Your Life and Career Ikigai: Finding Your Purpose Ikigai translates to "reason for being." It is the sweet spot where your passions, talents, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for intersect. Ikigai encourages you to discover what truly drives you and gives your life meaning.  It is about identifying your passions and strengths and aligning them with a purpose that adds value to the world. For example, your ikigai could be as simple as teaching, painting, or caring for others. Read more: IKIGAI: The Japanese Secret to a Long Healthy life

In today's fast-paced society, it's simple to become entangled in the hectic demands of everyday life. Often we neglect the most crucial relationship of all — the one with ourselves. Building a healthy self-relationship is the foundation for a fulfilling and balanced life. This article will show ten ways to nurture the relationship with one’s own self, focusing on its significance.  Defining Self-relationship Before we delve into the importance of self-relationship, let's clarify what it entails. Self-relationship refers to the quality of connection, understanding, and care one has for oneself. It's about treating yourself with the same love, respect, and kindness you would offer to a close friend or loved one. Read more: Goldilock Rule: How to stay motivated, take challenges in life, career, business The Significance of Self-relationship Self-acceptance Self-acceptance is embracing your flaws, quirks, and imperfections without judgment. When you accept yourself as you are, you cultivate inner peace, confidence, and a sense of worthiness. This foundation of self-acceptance allows you to navigate life's challenges with resilience and authenticity. Stress reduction Stress reduction empowers you to cope effectively with life's pressures. By nurturing a positive self-relationship, you gain access to inner strength and resilience. It creates a buffer against stressors and promotes emotional well-being. Read more: How to Live Minimalist Life: Benefits, Drawbacks of Minimalism Improved Decision-making Enhanced decision-making is a key aspect of self-relationship's significance. When you foster a positive connection with yourself, you gain clarity on your values and aspirations. This self-awareness guides your choices. It ensures they align with your authentic self, leading to more fulfilling and well-informed decisions. Enhanced relationships Improved relationships are a vital component of the significance of self-relationship. When you nurture a healthy bond with yourself, you can extend the same empathy and care to others. This fosters deeper, more meaningful connections with family, friends, and partners, enriching your overall life experience. Read more: Using the 37 Percent Rule to Make Better Decisions in Life

Bullying is a major concern that spans age and settings, sparing no space from its reach. Usually, bullying is connected with school and online spaces. We often forget other bullying behaviors like sibling bullying and abuse. In this article, we will explore the causes behind sibling bullying, its diverse forms, red flags to pay attention to, and most importantly, effective strategies for parents to both avert and tackle such conduct. Common Reasons for Sibling Bullying and Abuse - Jealousy and competition - Power imbalance - Modeling behavior - Lack of communication skills - Copying parental behavior - Seeking attention - Personal insecurities - Unresolved conflicts - External stressors. Read more: Bullying in School: How to Protect Children and Deal with the Issue Types of Sibling Bullying and Abuse Physical Bullying  Physical bullying entails employing force or aggression to intimidate or cause harm to a sibling. This can include hitting, pushing, kicking, or any other physical actions intended to exert control or cause physical pain. Psychological Bullying  Psychological bullying is a subtle yet damaging form of abuse where one sibling manipulates another's emotions, self-esteem, and perceptions. This can involve tactics like spreading rumors, exclusion, and using psychological pressure to gain control or dominance. Sexual Bullying  Sexual bullying involves inappropriate and coercive behaviors of a sexual nature between siblings. This can encompass unwanted advances, comments, or actions that create a hostile environment, causing emotional distress and violating personal boundaries. Read more: How to Raise a Caring, Empathetic and Compassionate Child Symptoms of Sibling Bullying and Abuse - Unexplained marks or bruises - Frequent feelings of unease - Marks from self-harm or expressing thoughts of self-harm - Decline in school performance - Fear or anxiety around a particular sibling - Rapid fluctuations due to stress - Refusal to be alone with the sibling - Low self-esteem - Running away from home - Sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns - Inappropriate sexual behavior. Read more: Common Sleep Problems in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help Effects of Sibling Bullying and Abuse on Children’s Mental Health - Diminished confidence and self-worth - Triggering depression - Anxiety due to fear - Social isolation - Trust issues - Internalized aggression  - Decline in concentration and grades - Potential engagement in self-destructive behavior - Eating disorders - Effects can extend into adulthood. Read more: 15 Gift Ideas for a Newborn Baby  How Parents can Protect Children from Sibling Bullying and Abuse Set Clear Boundaries  Try to establish firm rules that unequivocally condemn any form of aggressive behavior or bullying between siblings. Communicate consequences for crossing these boundaries, reinforcing the importance of respect and kindness. Positive Reinforcement  Parents should acknowledge and reward instances of respectful interactions and cooperation between siblings. This encourages a culture of kindness and reinforces the benefits of treating each other with respect. Model Respectful Behavior  It is important to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and respectful communication in parents' interactions with others, including their children. Children often learn by example, and seeing respectful behavior from adults sets a powerful precedent for sibling interactions. Read more: How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them Individual Attention Parents should spend quality time with each child. This helps build strong bonds and reduces feelings of rivalry. It also fosters a sense of belonging, decreasing the likelihood of resorting to bullying for attention. 

Bullying is a pervasive problem in schools. Bullying can occur in various forms, such as verbal, physical, social, and cyberbullying. It involves repetitive aggressive behaviour aimed at causing harm, discomfort, or distress to another person. Bullying can have serious consequences. It can affect the victim's mental health, academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem. Parents and caregivers must be aware of the signs of bullying, understand its effects, and take proactive measures against bullying in school to protect and support children. Common Reasons behind Bullying Insecurity  Insecurity frequently drives bullying, as individuals project their self-doubt onto others. By belittling or hurting others, they seek a fleeting sense of power and superiority to mask their insecurities. Through this, they gain a false sense of control and confidence. Peer Pressure  Peer pressure often fuels bullying behaviours as individuals succumb to the need for acceptance within their social group. In an attempt to fit in or assert dominance, they engage in hurtful actions to mirror their peers' behaviour. Eventually, it perpetuates a cycle of bullying. Read more: How to Raise a Caring, Empathetic and Compassionate Child Lack of Empathy  Bullying frequently arises due to an absence of empathy, wherein individuals ignore the emotions of others. Their inability to understand or care about the impact of their actions leads to cruel behaviour. They prioritise their desires or amusement over the well-being of their peers.