Pride and Nemesis

In the face of mounting concessions to Azerbaijan, Sheila Paylan argues that Armenia risks trading

dignity for illusionary peace and explores the fine line between pragmatism and surrender, and why national self-respect must never be collateral.

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Party of One

Sheila Paylan

Apr 7, 2025

In this deeply personal reflection, Sheila Paylan challenges cultural norms and redefines autonomy, asserting that

womanhood should not be predominantly defined by motherhood. Instead, she advocates for the freedom to craft a meaningful life on one's own terms, embracing a broad spectrum of female identities and experiences.

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Are You Sure That We Are Awake?

Sheila Paylan

Mar 10, 2025

In a world increasingly shaped by propaganda, disinformation, and spectacle-driven politics, staying awake, both literally

and figuratively, has never been more critical. In this month’s column, Sheila Paylan explores the urgency of reclaiming reality in an era of digital illusions.

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One Year Down

Sheila Paylan

Feb 10, 2025

"Unleashed" turns one, marking a year of storytelling, self-discovery, and deep engagement. Reflecting on the

past year's articles, Sheila Paylan revisits personal and cultural themes, embracing growth, vulnerability, and the power of expression while looking forward to another year of breaking boundaries and embracing authenticity.

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Ride the Wave

Sheila Paylan

Jan 27, 2025

Grappling with the “New World Disorder” following Donald Trump’s return to office and his sweeping

policy changes, Sheila Paylan draws on her personal battles and urges us to harness historical wisdom and enduring human spirit to navigate these turbulent times.

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Fires and Fascists

Sheila Paylan

Jan 13, 2025

As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, exposing unpreparedness and policy failures, parallels emerge with Armenia's challenges

amid escalating threats by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Sheila Paylan highlights the need for vigilance and readiness against both natural disasters and geopolitical crises.

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New Year’s Revolutions

Sheila Paylan

Dec 30, 2024

Reimagining resolutions as personal uprisings, Sheila Paylan reflects on a life-changing typo, and explores how

small, intentional steps can ignite change, turning aspirations into lasting revolutions for growth, fulfillment and reinvention.

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Borderline

Sheila Paylan

Dec 16, 2024

In Kirants, a small village on Armenia’s northeastern border, ancient monasteries, a school with a

bomb shelter, and a military base coexist. Sheila Paylan explores the physical and emotional boundaries that define security, identity and resilience in a fragile landscape.

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Praise the Fuss

Sheila Paylan

Dec 2, 2024

Reflecting on her personal journey from skepticism to embracing gratitude, Sheila Paylan explores the transformative

power of thankfulness, the mental health benefits of practicing it daily, and how celebrating Thanksgiving in a community has redefined her perspective on the holiday.

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Unleashed