Chapter 1: A Celebration of Stories

Greetings, dear readers and fellow enthusiasts of Medium! In honor of my 78th collection, which amusingly coincides with my age, I have curated a range of reading options spanning various topics. Though brief, I believe there is something here for everyone. My objective is to unearth valuable narratives that have been overlooked, inviting you to share in their enjoyment. By creating these collections, I hope to boost engagement and views across the platform.

As we celebrate the fourth anniversary of ILLUMINATION, I can’t help but wonder what it will become as it ages—though I may not be around to witness it, some of you will!

In a lighthearted twist, I adapted a story in my quirky Australian accent, a style I don’t usually adopt. I hope it brings a smile to your face.

Now, let’s celebrate the fourth birthday of our cherished ILLUMINATION!

Chapter 2: Welcoming New Voices

We've welcomed over 200 new writers into our community! Our editors have introduced them through an onboarding package during my birthday celebration. I encourage you to follow those whose writing resonates with you. This nurturing environment fosters connections between newcomers and seasoned writers, showcasing the essence of ILLUMINATION.

Today, we also received wonderful news that our editor Lanu Pitan has returned to us. We’re thrilled that Medium has restored her account. Dr. Mehmet Yildiz beautifully described Lanu’s generous spirit in a heartfelt testimonial. Learn more about Lanu's journey in this insightful story.

Chapter 3: Facing Challenges with Compassion

Have you ever encountered a reader who has perused over 2500 stories from a single author on Medium? Dr. Yildiz shared insightful perspectives on recent account suspensions, fostering empathy for both victims and the platform itself. Having experienced a suspension myself, I understand the emotional toll it can take. However, it's crucial for the platform to eliminate those who detract from its quality.

I've recently penned my thoughts on the wave of bulk suspensions. If you're curious about the details, you can find my reflections in a concise piece addressing this pressing issue.

Chapter 4: Insights on Boosting

In my latest updates, I explored the boosted stories on ILLUMINATION, sharing my readings of exceptional pieces. Aiden has created a fantastic YouTube video specifically for ILLUMINATION-Gaming, offering valuable tips for aspiring writers and readers alike.

As we continue to feature boosted stories, I have linked to notable past pieces for those new to our community. Each story is a treasure worth exploring, and I encourage you to engage and share these gems on your social platforms.

Chapter 5: Engaging with the Community

This week, new collections by The Sturg have impressed us all. Creating curated collections is no small feat, and I urge you to engage with and share his work.

Additionally, Dr. Yildiz recently addressed frequently asked questions regarding the Boost initiative on Medium, shedding light on the process and offering hope to writers who may have struggled with boosting in the past.

Chapter 6: Noteworthy Interviews

In recent interviews, Dr. Mehmet Yildiz spoke with the remarkable Genius Turner, whose insights are sure to inspire. I also had the honor of interviewing Shirley Willett, a respected elder in our community, and Dr. David Mokotoff, MD, who shares his rich experiences with humor and wisdom.

These interviews highlight the diverse voices within our community and the life lessons they impart.

Chapter 7: My Curated Collections

As we wrap up, I invite you to explore my latest curated stories, including a standout piece by Dr. Yildiz that emphasizes the importance of sunlight in managing depression. This collection features a range of topics and voices, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Thank you for diving into these captivating narratives with me. Please share them widely so that more readers can discover these valuable stories.