I Am a Rebel—Even If I Don’t Look Like One to You

If you do a quick search on Google, the word “rebel” or “rebellious” yields endless images of hardcore punks, defiant teens stepping into flames, or revolutionary figures wielding guns. It’s hard to find pictures of people in wheelchairs or confined to their bed, or a hospital room. For those of us who live with chronic illnesses, rebellion may not look the same, but it is an everyday occurrence.

I live with systemic Lupus, Sjögren’s Syndrome, antiphospholipid syndrome, epilepsy, and a few other chronic illnesses. It is often hard to trace the source, but pain comes in the form of a menu with a long list of choices.

My idea of being a rebel is to go for my own birthday dinner, despite the pounding pain in my muscles from Sjögren’s. Not the feel-good ache post exercise, but the sort that keeps you up all night begging for help. I feel tough when I manage to chop a potato into two and cook my own dinner, with hands that have become inflamed red balloons from Lupus. I feel like I’ve won that hard-earned peanut butter sandwich, which requires me to crawl to the kitchen in order to make it. This is my life, and I’m not about to let a little pain dictate what I can or can’t do.

Things like standing on the bus, taking a shower, or fastening my bra add up at an exponential rate. Pain consumes me by the end of the day. My body needs a week to recover, but I get up and do it all over the next day, with double the amount of pain.

I am the inconspicuous character, with my head down shuffling along the street. I don’t look tough or inspiring, huddled under my blanket. I don’t have the toned body or signature style of a superhero unless you consider pajamas akin to capes and tights. Yet I, and many others like me, am rebelling against feelings of infirmity and depression on a daily basis. I make a conscious decision to interact with society when shutting down could be so much easier. I am defying the constant pain, in order to find some pleasure within my days. I am clinging onto the pinky finger of life, while my body is self-destructing from the inside out.

No, I am not the revolutionary who is going to usher in a new era or stop climate change. I don’t have the energy to join you on a hundred-day strike. I don’t have the strength to rev up that Harley and go riding off into the sunset, hurling my middle finger at society. Whether I like it or not, I am dependent on the system and the boring stuff it provides — doctors, hospitals, and medications.

But I am a rebel in my own way. Have you ever tried clinging on to life when you feel no hope; when you experience pain, no matter what you do; when strangers judge and misunderstand you in a split second on the street? Standing firm and choosing to fight for your life against the odds is the hardest thing to do in this world. And in that sense, every little thing those of us with chronic illness do to thrive and survive kicks some serious ass.

(Photo via Allef Vinicius/Pexels + Getty)

December carries on, continuing Sagittarius season — usually a pretty joyful time of year! Holiday lights illuminate the darkness, and friends and families gather. While the Sun is in this vivacious sign, it is important to cultivate happiness. Sagittarius is ultimately about seeking the truth, aiming for broader meaning in life, and embodying an optimistic archetype focused on honorable and virtuous living. However, there can be a bit of self-righteousness and a know-it-all attitude, as well. It's important to remain flexible in our thinking and to realize that what’s right for us may not be right for others. Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign, so it’s wise to remain adaptable, to employ a positive attitude, and to keep a sense of humor.

Oh, and while we're at it...Mercury is FINALLY exiting its retrograde period! So what does all this mean for your weekly horoscope? Let's find out!

Scroll down to see your exciting weekly horoscope for December 9-15!

What's happening astrologically during the week of December 9-15, 2024?

Sivan Weitz

We are given an opportunity to heal parts of ourselves that are usually hidden or otherwise inaccessible when the Sun trines Chiron on December 10. Extroverts can use this creative time to shine, display their talents, and take leadership roles in their communities. More reserved introverts are encouraged to share their time helping others. For all of us, this generosity toward others serves as a way to heal our wounds. Charitable acts will be deeply rewarding.

Working toward a creative goal that pushes us beyond our comfort zone aligns perfectly with the energy when Venus opposes Mars on December 12. Romantic gestures will help deepen our relationships. If you are not in an intimate partnership, consider how you can blend and honor both your feminine and masculine energies. Tap into the friendly vibe of Mercury sextile Venus, exact on December 13, to create fun-loving, enjoyable exchanges with everyone you interact with. We can all practice being charming, good-natured, and affectionate while seeking reciprocity in our relationships. This uplifting energy can help resolve conflicts positively for everyone involved.

Liene Pogule

Mercury stations direct on December 15, alleviating any mishaps that may have occurred over the past couple of weeks and paving the way for more effortless progress. If you used the retrograde period to reevaluate and recuperate, you will feel energized and able to focus on the plans you made. Mars is still retrograde and will be until February 24, 2025, so it’s still advised to take it easy and not move too quickly. Pace yourself and move with purpose toward any goals you’ve been dreaming about.

The full moon on December 15 is a great time to connect your mind, body, and spirit. Engage in rituals that affirm this internal union. Celebrate the joyousness of the season in a light-hearted way. Mars opposes Pluto which is conjunct Venus during this full Moon, and we will find motivation and inspiration to achieve our goals, both large and small. We will all have profound feelings around what we love and value.

In all activities, maintain a flexible willingness to go with the flow and open yourself to serendipity.

​Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs!

Spencer Wirkkala

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

This is a great week to be creative, but not in an ordinary way. Express yourself from the depths of your soul. Tap into your subconscious and create something that ignites your inner feminine wisdom. Use your art, in whatever form it manifests, to blend and harmonize your whole being. If you find yourself uninspired, slow down and allow yourself to daydream and stare at the stars or the clouds for gentle inspiration. After all, art can truly come from any and everywhere!

Photo by Sarah on Unsplash

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Focus on your family, your home, and your inner child. What do you feel, and how can you express your care and love? This energy is tender, and if you are honest with yourself, you can create the love you need. One way is to tend to your home and express your love to your loved ones. Another way is to practice self-care. While there is nothing wrong with going to the salon to get a new haircut or manicure, the opportunity for profound healing goes much deeper.

Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You must communicate your deepest truth this week. Leading up to the full moon on December 15th, take time to write in your journal or speak into your voice memos about what lies at the core of your being. Use your words to clarify your deepest desires. As the year winds down, use this week to reflect on and appreciate how far you have come and how much you have grown. The act of writing or speaking will allow you to access your inner authenticity. Share what you learn with trusted allies or keep it to yourself. Inner clarity is what matters.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Act on whatever makes you feel secure and stable. Use this week to understand what you value and how to achieve peace of mind. Use your money wisely, but be generous with your loved ones. Express your love in ways that demonstrate the profound connection you share with others. This could take many forms, but heartfelt gifts that signify your deepest love will be most meaningful for both you and the recipient of your kind magnanimity. Anyone in your sphere is so lucky to have the many gifts you bring to the table at the end of the day!

Photo by Ionela Mat on Unsplash

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Use your energy wisely this week. You'll likely feel braver and more willing to change whatever needs changing. Pace yourself, but don’t hold back. This creative energy can be harnessed for positive actions. What do you truly desire? At every opportunity, clarify your personal ambitions and realize you have the power to create your best reality. Be sure not to isolate yourself too much as you focus on your goals and aspirations. Breakthroughs are likely to happen. This is warrior energy, so your successes will be amplified if you have allies by your side. We're always stronger together, aren't we?

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

If you find yourself repressing or holding back feelings of anger and frustration, devise healthy ways to release the energy. Move your body purposefully and energetically, but do not push yourself too hard. Write in your journal or talk with a trusted friend or therapist. Shed light on anything you might be hiding from or unconsciously carrying with you. Use Sagittarius’ truth-seeking energy to uncover what might be hidden. You may be surprised what you end up finding!

Lada Balakireva

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

It's a super playful time for you right now — which is especially great if you have children! Even if you don't, lean into that energy; be creative, make holiday crafts, and bake cookies. Let the play be free-form and try not to be controlling or judgmental. It’s okay if the ornaments are not symmetrical or if the cookies are decorated haphazardly. Joy and fun are most important. If you don’t have kids around, use this time to play and be creative for yourself. Take pride in your abilities and follow through on hunches or impulses. Slow down and enjoy simple pleasures.

Photo by miguel sinisterra on Unsplash

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Take a break from work, or at least allow yourself to slow down a little more. Use this time to reflect on what needs to change in your career. You will likely face some decisions about how you want to refocus your efforts. You will make better decisions if you are rested and clear-eyed. Make long-term plans for how you’d like to reformulate your work. Reflect on the year and see how far you’ve come and how much you’ve grown. Take what you learn and allow yourself to dream about a more fulfilling approach in the future.

Photo by Yoav Aziz on Unsplash

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Your imagination is on fire, and you’ll find yourself dreaming about your next big adventure or learning a new skill. You may feel restless and a little impatient. Try to temper your enthusiasm and refrain from being overly opinionated. Use the excess energy available to finish what you’re working on before starting something new. Be sure to move your body in a joyful way, but don’t push yourself too hard physically. Be careful around aggressive people, and like an Aikido master, let any combative energy pass by in the name of peace. You've got this!

Margaret Molloy

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

You might be feeling serious and a bit out of sync with all the joyfulness around you. Allow yourself to go inward and be truthful about what you are experiencing. It’s likely that the transformations brewing inside you relate to a need for security or safety. While you might be tempted to retreat for the long haul, it’s important to balance your time alone with time spent with loved ones. The warmth of human interaction will serve to remind you that this is a passing phase. Recognize that you need others for support. And I have a pretty good feeling the people around you would love nothing more than to welcome you with open arms.

Photo by Surface on Unsplash

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

As much as you might like to rise above uncomfortable interactions, this is a really good time to work on relationships. You might have been experiencing conflicts that cloud your judgment. Reach out to a counselor to work through any differences, if you need a little extra help or added perspective. A skilled and unbiased third-party advisor will be able to identify the issues quickly and help you develop resolutions and reconciliations. Make sure your goals are harmonious and reciprocal. It may feel fraught now, but this work is so worth it!

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

The stress of the holidays may push you into overdrive, but don’t lose balance. Rest, and don’t overextend yourself. Listen to the subtle cues your body gives you. Stick to your exercise routine, but take it easy this week. Make sure you’re taking care of your health so you don’t get sick. Tune in to your pets and children. They are likely to pick up on your energy, and if you’re tense and anxious, they’ll reflect that back to you. Most simply put: find ways to find your zen as much as possible this week — you'll need it!

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 49 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

Gilmore Girls simply wouldn’t be the same without Lane Kim. Played by Keiko Agena, Lane is much more than just Rory’s best friend. She’s feisty, hilarious, and can totally keep up with Lorelai and Rory’s hectic conversations (something not EVERYONE in Stars Hollow can do cough Kirk cough). However, the actress recently revealed how she really feels about playing a complicated, and sometimes controversial character like Lane.

Here's what Keiko Agena had to say about playing Lane Kim on Gilmore Girls.

Even though Lane and Rory are inseparable throughout the series’ seven-season run, Keiko recently revealed she’s actually super close to two other Gilmore Girls cast members: John Cabrera (who played Brian) and Sean Gunn (who starred as our beloved Kirk)!

“There is this kind of lovely nostalgia for that time, and yet also we have years since then,” she says on a recent episode of the Dear Felicity rewatch podcast (via People). “I [have] gone to both of their weddings. Our friendship is part Gilmore Girls and appreciation for that crazy time, and then part just like a million other things.”

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

The insane nostalgia surrounding Gilmore Girls means that everyone has their own annual Gilmore Girls rewatch…and that as we get farther away from the 2000s, the more glaring some of the show’s choices are. Fans have been vocal about Lane’s story arc on the show (namely the fact she had to shelve her dreams of being a rockstar when she got pregnant), and Keiko herself has thought about it more critically in recent years.

“The best thing is to have a Korean American writer [and a] Korean American actor,” she says. “I don't think that that role, cast that way, would happen today. But at that time, in 2000, it was such a different time that I definitely know I wouldn't have said no or pulled myself out of that situation at that time...Now it's just a mix of just having gratitude for having gone through that experience and having that experience.”

But even with its flaws, no one can deny how special Stars Hollow and the Gilmores are — and how much Lane has meant for people. Brit + Co writer Aleena Malik notes how Lane's experiences "mirrored many of my own, and, at a time when there was such little Asian representation, this was extremely impactful."

“In a weird way, I feel like I want to honor the experience that people had from the show, and what it meant to them, especially young Asian people," Keiko Agena says. "Because I get that comment a lot, about what it was like for them to see someone like that on screen.”

“I think I'm at a transition point in my life where I have to let go of the pressure that I put on myself to be the best version of who it is that I think that you love,” she continues. “Because I love her too. I can tell, when I meet someone who knows Gilmore Girls or who loves Lane, it's like, I recognize that love. I see that you love that person.”

What do you think about Lane Kim's character arc when you rewatch Gilmore Girls? Let us know on Facebook!