June 10, 2013 - submitted by The Oracle, United Kingdom

 

Q. WHO'D LIKE TO JOIN TEAM ORACLE?

When I answer questions of a personal nature, Coldplay.com readers often get in touch with their own thoughts. So, we have a weekly feature, Team Oracle, whereby each Friday (with the question asker's permission) we open up a question to all of you to answer too. Then, the following Friday, I'll post a selection of the best answers, alongside my own reply.

ANYONE can join in so, if you'd like to, please email your response to the following question in no more than 250 words, to [email protected] before midnight Thursday 13th June.

 

I'm sixteen, and like most people at sixteen, I have a lot on my mind (and at other times I have nothing on my mind, which is a different problem altogether) I've been feeling rather small in this big big world and I see there's a lot of evil in it. I want to change the world in a big big way, yet I find myself not knowing where to start. I really want to see the world get along with itself, and I need you, almighty oracle, to tell me how I, a sixteen year old kid, can change the world for good. Sam, USA.

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected] with TEAM ORACLE in the subject line.

June 10, 2013 - submitted by Claire, United States of America

 

Q. I was hoping you would be able to help me out. You see, in January, when I was taking finals, I found one of my best friends was cheating on the final. I made a very hard decision and reported him and one other friend that was guilty. I planned on it being anonymous so my teacher could change the test and I wouldn't be found out, AND my friends would not get in trouble, but in the end, my wishes were not respected. (They basically MADE me tell them who it was.)

The test was not changed, and my friends got week suspensions, after being informed it was I who ratted them out. It has been a few months, and neither will talk to me. This is horrifying because they were my best friends! What should I do? I have already apologized and explained myself thousands of times, but to no avail. My other friends say I should give up, but I can't do that, also because I can't hang out with my other best friends since these two are always there. Please give me some advice?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

You were faced with a moral dilemma and you made a decision that you thought was right - nobody should pass judgment on that. I wonder if you would have given the information if you thought your name would be revealed. Maybe talking to your friends before reporting them could have helped.

This is an issue of loyalty in friendships but loyalty to your mates should not mean you have to compromise your ethics and beliefs if it makes you uncomfortable.

They may call you a grass or a snitch but it was dishonest of them and unfair. You and other students had put the time and work into studying. I would certainly look at why you told the teacher but then accept the consequences much like they have had to do. If you could go back and change your decision, would you?

Some would argue it's nobody's business but theirs and let them live with the knowledge they cheated. It's a valid point but it depends on what lies beneath your decision. If you're happy to stand by it, you still did the right thing - for you. They may never agree and they're also entitled to that opinion.

Perhaps being friends with people who do things you don't approve of isn't the best option for you & it's time to move on to different friends.

We are all capable of doing stupid things from time to time and maybe being caught will make them think before they act in future. It may take time for them to see this and I wouldn't expect a miracle.

I feel you have every right to express your voice and as an "informant", you have a right to anonymity if you request it – but people can't "make you" give that information. I would advise anyone faced with a decision like this, stick to your guns but also insist you will not divulge names. I don't think the staff have acted appropriately & I'd be tempted to talk to them about the repercussions.

Your friends' reactions are understandable but they are treating you like you have done something wrong instead of themselves.

If they are not listening to you, maybe try explaining in a letter that you were trying to come to a fair conclusion & had no intention of it causing trouble for them.

I'd also add that whilst apologizing for the outcome, you hope they understand knowing you as their friend that you were struggling with the information and that was the only way you felt you could deal with it. Explain the pressure put upon you at the time. It is their choice to be friends with you but you obviously think it's worth trying again.

I hope they forgive you but if they don't, perhaps they weren't the best friends you thought they were.

Over to you.

 

Listen, Claire. What you did was right, but sometimes it's just really better if you don't give much attention to what others do and just focus on your own matters. I get that it might be hard to see a wrong act and not report it, but sometimes we should just let things be. I have learnt that off personal experience when I reported a classmate who was bringing illegal material into class. It might be hard for you to hang around people who are with either of your past best friends, but I think you should just go with people even if the two are around, just don't really talk to them (your ex-bestfriends). If they were really good friends, they would've got over it and saw that they were the ones in the wrong path, and actually accepted your endless apologies as you stated you did. I think this is an experience that might show you who your real friends are. Solaf.

 

First of all, you Claire, have done nothing wrong. The only people who have done something wrong are your friends and teachers. Your friends for cheating and your teachers for telling them it was you. It is very brave and strong of you to go reporting your friends, I admire you for it. Cheating is wrong and you made it clear that it is. No matter who is doing it. You seem to have done everything to apologize to your friends, and that is the right way to get them back. But why should you really apologize, when they are the ones who did wrong? And do you really want them back, when they did something you thought was so wrong that you reported it? Even though they were your best friends before, you might consider if they were such good friends in the beginning. I am sorry to say it and it is hard to think like that about your friends, I know. But just maybe, you will find better friends than them when this has happened. I certainly hope so, you seem like a person who deserve it. Honesty is the best policy, isn't that how the expression goes? Hanna, Sweden.

 

What you did took enormous courage; but it was the right decision. You did the right thing by telling someone that they were cheating on the test. Cheating is something that is never okay. And, as for your "friends"; forget about them. They are not your real friends, because if they were, they would understand you when you tried to explain to them why you did what you did, and they would have also accepted your apology. Also- forget about the other "friends" that you have- they as well are not your real friends; because if they were they would be sticking up for you. So, don't continue to worry about this; you will soon make new friends that will REALLY care for you, will understand you, and will ALWAYS do whatever it takes to stick up for you. P.S. KEEP YOUR HEAD UP! THINGS WILL GET BETTER VERY SOON! AND KEEP SMILING! from the U.S.A.

 

First: I congratulate you on your decision to report those people. In any (and especially an academic) environment lying and seeking advantages is wrong! but ask yourself one question: do you really want friends who think it's ok to cheat? Eva.

 

For me I think you did the right thing. Although it scratched your friendship a bit, it was a very brave thing to do. It was an act of fortitude that I would not be able to do myself. Your friends knew what they were doing was wrong and they still did it. It was a good thing you had the courage to do what was right.

I would make it up to them by little acts of kindness. Do good deeds for them one step at a time. Like offering to help them with subjects they are weak at. Buying them tickets if their favorite band is in town. Smile at them more often but not to much because they might find it creepy. Do what you can to show them that you are still the good friend you are.

Well if they really won't forgive you. Then I suggest you should give up. If your friends can't understand that you were just trying to do the right thing then you should go look for those who can. Maybe it's time to stop being around people who infuse your mind with bad things, and time to surround yourself with people who are good examples.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

I hope everything becomes okay with you,Claire. All the way from the Philippines (somewhere in Asia), Rianna.

 

Claire that was a douchebag move. You need to ask yourself why you ratted them out. I'm pretty sure you will end up finding out it was about you and not them. I'm sure you never thought it through because if they didn't find the cheat sheets they would use you as a witness. It's probably good they did because it is important that you learn from it too. My advice to you is that if you really want to remain friends with the two people and not only because they hang out with the same group you do is to admit that you did it for selfish reasons. Trust will be an issue for all your friends now if you ratted on your best friend. Ask yourself how you would feel if the positions were reversed. In the end people who cheat are only cheating themselves (common saying), and as my brother would say, the A students are working for the C students. At this point stop being St Claire, who only wanted the best for them and become the truth. In my opinion that is your only chance and over time rebuild trust. If they still don't wanna be your friend, (totally understandable) take it as a learning experience and move on. Sorry to be so harsh, but I think you need it. Jeff R.

 

I want to reiterate that I feel you did the right thing. Academic dishonesty or cheating of any kind is serious and really misses the point of learning. You made a hard decision and that takes a great deal of bravery. In my opinion, your school, unfortunately, handled the situation very poorly—as they have basically made it very difficult for students who would report academic dishonesty to actually do so. Schools should make their best effort to ensure that you (and students like you) feel safe stepping forward. At the same time, I believe that schools should also provide more reformative action for students who might cheat. Basically, those students who have cheated need chances to redeem themselves without it permanently affecting their records, as we all make bad decisions sometimes.

 

Maybe your friends will come around someday—it is hard to know. It has been my experience that true friends often outgrow many of the fights that seemed huge in grade school. In the meantime, it sounds like you have a group of supportive friends, and my advice is to focus on them for the time being. If the two friends who are angry with you are always with the rest of your friends, make an effort to plan independent activities with those who show more understanding. This might also be a good time to reach out to new people and begin forming new friendships. All the best, Susannah.

 

Your friends did not right to cheat on the finals, they are cheating themselves. Obviously you have a sense for justice, that’s a good thing. Otherwise you were in one line with your friends and not responsible for what they were doing. To cheat the examines is wrong, but it doesn’t really harm to someone usually, except is was an exam for physicians. Primarily it is the job of the institution to catch the cheaters, but they did not thank you for it either.

Your friends are disappointed and you will have to start from the very beginning to get their confidence back again, this will need time. If they can be real friends they will be able to forgive one day, hopefully. Best wishes. W. N.

 

I think if someone wants to cheat, lie, steal you only owe it to yourself to tell them how you feel & your intentions so they can decide whether to carry out the plan. I don't think anyone should become judge & jury especially not with friends. I'm not sure why you didn't hand in an anonymous letter to the teacher so they couldn't ask for anything further from you. Don't feel guilty. What's done is done so just forget about it and move on. JC.

 

Thanks to all those who replied to this week’s question. Remember, Team Oracle is open to anyone so if you fancy replying, click to read this week's, and send us your answer.

June 11, 2013 - submitted by Paulo, Portugal

 

Q. Dear Coldplay,

We have just bought the Coldplay Live 2012 Concert film. It is an amazing film, that brings back some wonderful memories. We only went puzzled when you say that you started the tour on Madrid. Did you forgot the extraordinary concert that you did in Oporto on the 18 May??

Cheers

Paulo and Cristina.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The Madrid show mentioned in the Live 2012 is not the one you're thinking of. The first live gig of the MX tour was in Madrid on 26 October 2011. They played there again on 20 May 2012.

 

Once the album was released there were TV, Radio, charity and special perfomances before the tour kicked off proper on 3rd December in Glasgow. Portugal was around the 22nd night of the tour.

June 11, 2013 - submitted by Petra, United Kingdom

 

Q. When and where was Chris performing this acoustic gig? It looks pretty recent to me.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Indeed it was. Chris performed (with Davide Rossi) last Thursday (6 June) in London at a private charity dinner in support of the Ecology Trust and the Aspinall Foundation.

 

The setlist was:

Viva La Vida

Paradise

Fix You (barely a minute before Chris ended it)

Yellow

Walking on the Moon (The Police cover)

Night and Day (Cole Porter cover)

June 12, 2013 - submitted by Laura, United Kingdom

 

Q. I know this is random but it's pretty important to me! Basically I've always thought I had the same birthday as Viva la Vida (12th June as it says on your website) however on other sites it says the 11th June? Which date is correct? I hope this website is right as it's my favourite album and I love the idea of sharing a birthday with it! Thanks! :)

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Oh it all used to be far simpler when all albums were released on Mondays!

VLV was released on different dates in different territories, for example, 11th June in Japan. Here in the UK it was released on the 12th.

 

That means that today is Viva's birthday! Last week was X&Y's...

June 12, 2013 - submitted by Carlo S, Panama

 

Q. I fell in love at a Tae Kwon Do place with a black belt. It is really hard to talk to her since she is one of the helpers (she is not actually a trainer yet), and even worse, her father and her little brother are there also. It's really hard to talk to her with her parents nearby.

We meet like once or twice a week and we can only talk before and after the class but then the place is full of kids and I can't make a real romantic approach.

I'm sincerely going mad.

Please help

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Maybe pass her a note before or after class and include your number in it?

June 12, 2013 - submitted by Thuane, Brazil

 

Q. Which was the first concert that Coldplay used Xylobands/wristbands first time? Thank you.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

It was actually the show that I mentioned in one of yesterday's answers.

That was the first live gig of the MX album era though not strictly part of a tour. It took place in Madrid's Plaza de toros Las Ventas on 26 October 2011. They looked different - thinner straps and less colours but the technology was the same.

Anchorman and myself went to have a look at the boxes of Xylobands waiting for the very first fans to enter the venue. It was both exciting and nerve inducing waiting for the moment of truth when the lights went down.

 

The concert was part of the “American Express Unstaged” series, which paired musical artists with film directors. Coldplay worked with Anton Corbijn who as you may know, has taken photographs of the band and directed the videos for Talk and Viva la Vida (alternative video).

June 13, 2013 - submitted by Drew, United States of America

 

Q. I've been wondering about this since I pre-ordered my copy of Live 2012 on iTunes, why the long gap between their two live films, was a Live 2006 or a Live 2009 ever considered?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

They were considered; one was even shot but the end result wasn't to everyone's liking so it was canned.

June 13, 2013 - submitted by Veronika, Germany

 

Q. Hi Oracle

 

I wanna get started with getting a little fitter...

Any suggestions for a running-playlist (first of all Coldplay songs but also non-Coldplay-songs) ??

Which tracks do the boys listen to while working out?

 

Have a jolly day :)

Thanks for answering!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

There are lots of CDs and Spotify playlists etc. for exercise these days but I like to create my own so I may be able to help - not that I run often.

 

I'll start with Coldplay songs. No surprise to regular readers that my first song would be my favourite; Politik. Great pounding opening to get the heart rate pumping but the dips and crescendos will set a good pace.

In no particular order I'd definitely include ETIAW, Talk, Lost, Charlie Brown, Daylight, Cemeteries of London, Strawberry Swing and Major Minus. Clocks & Speed of Sound fit, but they wouldn't be for me - personally.

To begin the cool down I'd opt for a slower song such as Everything's Not Lost - otherwise it would be a very Parachutes album free zone! Paradise is good winding down song too.

That would be quite a long run though, so make sure you pace yourself or build up to it gradually. I'd advise alternating between running for 2 minutes and walking for 2 minutes.

 

Here's a list of some of the songs (again in no particular order of pop & rock) that I used to jog around to:

Rage Against The Machine - Killing in the Name

Jay Z - 99 Problems

Faith No More - Be Aggressive

Audioslave - Cochise

Black Eyed Peas - Rock Your Body

Max Sedgley - Happy

The Raconteurs - Salute Your Solution

Dizzy Rascal - Bonkers

That's probably around 25-30 minutes so plenty to be getting on with.

You've inspired me to run again, Veronika...

 

I'm afraid I don't know what they guys listen to whilst working out - they don't always have music though.

LIT II, Lovers in Japan and ETIAW are good to walk to (I don't run).

June 14, 2013 - submitted by Julia, United Kingdom

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

 

My relationship with my boyfriend is starting to fall apart. We hardly talk any more and we used to be really close. Now whenever we have a conversation, everything is boring and awkward, and now I'm starting to become afraid of talking to him at all. It hard for us to even see each other because we live so far away. Please help me, I don't want to lose him...

 

Best wishes, Julia

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Julia it sounds like you are desperately clinging to what the relationship was and what you want it to be again. I can understand that but sometimes you have to accept the change may mean the end :-(

 

I will assume you have tried talking to him. If you haven't that is the first thing you must do. Because of the distance, perhaps you could Skype and encourage him to tell you how he feels - rather than demand explanations - for the change in behaviour.

It could be that he's going through some personal issues that are affecting your relationship, maybe he's struggling with the distance or it could be - and I am sorry to be blunt - that he doesn't want to be in the relationship any longer and does not know how to tell you.

 

I want to direct your attention to how you described the current state of your relationship by removing the superfluous and concentrating on the nitty gritty:

My relationship with my boyfriend is starting to fall apart.

We hardly talk any more.

We used to be really close.

Whenever we have a conversation, everything is boring and awkward.

I'm starting to become afraid of talking to him at all.

 

Now, I know you love him but I have to say, this doesn't sound like much of a relationship and certainly not one worth staying in or trying to save. Perhaps only you know that but all I will say is, break-ups are rotten and they hurt (not like heaven) but... sometimes they are necessary. Being happy is the main thing and at the moment it doesn't sound like either of you are so maybe a break is the way forward and see what happens from there.

Don't worry though, whatever happens, you're not alone!

 

THERE IS NO NEW TEAM ORACLE TODAY (14th) BUT WATCH OUT FOR NEXT WEEK'S QUESTION ABOUT LOVE & TRUST.

June 14, 2013 - submitted by Sam, United States of America

 

Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION #124 part i

I'm sixteen, and like most people at sixteen, I have a lot on my mind (and at other times I have nothing on my mind, which is a different problem altogether) I've been feeling rather small in this big big world and I see there's a lot of evil in it. I want to change the world in a big big way, yet I find myself not knowing where to start. I really want to see the world get along with itself, and I need you, almighty Oracle, to tell me how I, a sixteen year old kid, can change the world for good.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

While there is indeed a lot of evil in the world, there are a lot of good things too - you being one.

 

To change the way in a big way doesn't necessarily mean you have to start big. I'm sure you have many concerns so how about starting with one issue and tackling whether you want to raise awareness, funds or add names to a petition to make a change.

There are websites worth checking out such as Change and Avaaz.

Look locally to see what you can do to make a difference as if there's something that can be transferred globally, it makes sense to start at "home".

It may be you wanting to affiliate yourself with a bigger organisation. Charities etc. are always crying out for volunteers.

Live Below the Line is an annual event that challenges people to live off £1/$1 a day for 5 days. It's a great way to highlight hunger and poverty.

Social networks are a good way to spread the word but require time & effort but to change the world does too and I am sure you've got what it takes.

 

Other areas that need help & attention are food waste, recycling, equality, human rights, animal welfare, caring for the community and rehabilitation. The list goes on.

You could organise events - concerts, stalls, games, fun runs, raffles etc.

 

Perhaps you could choose further education in a field that appeals to you e.g; environmental studies.

I would also recommend speaking to your local governor / council - they may be open to helping you.

Hopefully that will give you some ideas but in the meantime, keep thinking the way you do and treating the world & its inhabitants with respect.

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world" as Gandhi said (& I repeat here often!)

Over to you.

 

Well, Sam, it's actually spirit lifting to see someone so kind; it's very heart warming as well. But I actually think that no human has the power (especially at such an age) to unite the world and get rid of all evil. Not even the most powerful of humans is able to do so. Don't worry though, you can fix tiny things. Start out with how you act towards people. Some people are touched by random acts of kindness, and are actually motivated to doing something nice themselves. In your case, try to make groups of people (even if the number may be very little) and go out in your city. Help people, give the homeless haircuts (for free), help a blind man cross the street, help a woman carry her stuff, etc. Most people are easily touched, and even if the people who have actually been motivated by you may be a minority, those things that you do will make you feel better about yourself and the world. So go out there and do something nice! Solaf.

 

One word... Charity. The world today has no charity. No kindness. Everyone is selfish, mean and uncharitable, so if you want to change the world be kind to everyone and anyone you meet! It will be a hard task but if you really want this you will be able to do it!

Hope I helped!

Mollie U.S.A.

 

I agree with you, the world is a crazy place. Too big for one person to change. It's okay to feel small. Don't let your hopes down though. First start the change in you, correct your mistakes. But no one is perfect, so don't be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. You should try volunteering. If you really want to see the world get along with itself you can't just stand by and watch, right? Get up and do something about it! Take it one challenge at a time, one foot in front of the other.

Ease the sadness the people who are neglected, alone and living in a world that's filled with sorrow and pain. Once you have helped those people, the feeling is great. Being everything to the people you helped would make you feel contented knowing that YOU got rid of the evil in their world. So go help the needy, the homeless, and the people around you who are hurting.

You should also try to be a role model. Someone that people can look up to. Someone who people can see as an inspiration. That way, they can do good. The next thing you know, there would be more good than evil. There is a reason why evil is there. It's there so we can do the wrong things, and learn from them. It's there so we can learn how to fix our faults and do better next time. Good luck Sam! Rianna.

 

At sixteen you can change the world more than you think! Firstly, work out what kind of change you would like to see, then educate yourself as much as you can on that particular subject, then once you feel like you are aimed with as much information that you can absorb, look at causes that may help make the change you want. Small changes can often be just as power as big ones, for example, world peace, big huge massive change, but maybe you can just start by volunteering your time with a community group who are helping to change people’s opinions towards minority groups, or those with mental illness, or something else you may feel needs changing. Then, you can start to make small steps towards creating change for the greater good in the world. Who knows, you may go on to college, study in your area of interest, then work for a larger organisation to create global change later in life. But for now, look at things you can directly change for the good in the community around you. As Gandhi said, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Best of luck! Mel, Australia.

 

As much as you think to make an impact you need to change the world massively, start small and everything will fall into place like dominos, like a lot of things you need to work your way up and change things you want to little by little.

Ronan, England.

 

You can change the world, simply by asking an upset stranger what's wrong - because all they probably want is someone, anyone - to listen to them, no matter who it is.

If we all did this, it would be a happier world.

That or spread God's love. LM.

 

I understand what you're talking about. Sometimes it's easy to feel small in this large world of ours. I've felt the same a few times in my life. As an 18 year old going into college, I have to buck up & prepare for everything that's ahead. My advice to you, set a goal. Whether big or small, set a goal & do your best to accomplish it. Then set a bigger goal. The feeling of accomplishment can be a big motivator & eventually you will start setting those world changing goals (or maybe even start with that if you feel really good about it). Also, be brave. If you have an idea for something, go for it. If it gets shot down or it doesn't happen, try & try again. Once you get your mind on something, nothing can hold you down. I wish you the best of luck, Sam! Austin.

 

Hey Sam, as I am 14 myself, I kinda understand what you're going through. The world is a big one, and for one single person to make a change is a big deal. My advice would be to stand up for what you believe in. If it's anything like, poverty loss, self harm awareness help or just simple love for cake just make sure that you can do something that makes the world a better place by doing it. Like right now, I am trying to start to help people who are having suicidal thoughts or feelings or who are wanting to self-harm because in my life I have been there and I know how tough it is for teenagers. Hope this helps! Live your dreams, Kate, U.K.

 

The best way to change the world is to find what you love and figure out how to spread it to others. There's nothing more powerful then wholeheartedly spreading the joy of something you believe in. It can be anything. There's no one problem with the world, but there are countless ways for anyone to make it better. In the end, the best way to change the world is to be the change yourself.

Ricky, NY, USA.

 

I also have the same problem! There are so many organizations out there that you can volunteer with, just check online and contact people in your community, whether it's your hospital or a non-profit. I know that Me to We has summer camps, they are really beneficial to helping you become a leader and give you skills to help you. If you have a part time job like a lot of people our age, you could save up for next year! Or even one of their volunteer abroad trips.

Fundraising at school can be really fun! I wish all the evil in the world could disappear too, but working against evil gives a chance for good people like us to work together! Get some people together, make a group in your school, and plan some events! Like Anti-Bullying Day in September, more info on Google, but wear pink and have some fun with it. This year our school is doing a "photo booth" where take funny pictures for the yearbook, as well as pledges to stop bullying!

Also, at Halloween, you can trick or treat for canned goods and donate them to a food bank! Me to We has a ton of great ideas like that, and so does Seventeen Magazine (their online site too).

You aren't small, you're amazing. Your mind and potential is bigger than anything you could ever know. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best for the future, you have amazing goals, never give up! Ava.

 

I felt exactly like this at age sixteen! My top three recommendations would be volunteering somewhere; food banks are always good and anytime you can give them will go towards helping someone who really needs it, fund raising in crazy costumes for a charity of your choice is also fun, and in school, mentoring someone younger then you (even at 16 you have a whole world of experience and help you can offer to someone who's younger then you and having a tough time!)

Hope this has helped, good luck! Florence.

 

I'm sixteen as well, and my opinion is that on my own, I cannot change the world. If there are more than 7 billion people on Earth, only one's behavior is meaningless. But the point is, that regardless how old we are, together we can make big things. Once I read about a boy our age who started a website in order to raise money to build wells in Africa, and he succeeded. I'm thinking about something similar.

Mica, Spain

 

Well, I know how it feels like. I was 16 once, and just like you, I really wanted to change the world (in a good way, of course). For a sixteen-year-old buddy all you can do is BEING NICE TO EVERYONE. I know it sounds simple-as-hell, but at least it is the best thing you can do for now. Who knows, maybe ten or fifteen years from now, some people that you've been nice at will have a power to give you a bigger opportunity to change the world. But hey, it doesn't mean that you being nice for a purpose, NO.

Well, for me, being nice to everyone means everything. Being nice doesn't only mean you give people what you need. It also means: you care and listening. Here, I think listening is the key. You have to know what people around you need, so you can help them properly. Make a change doesn't always mean that you have to make a huge invention like nuclear or something. When you find yourself in your way to help other people, it can also mean, "make a change".

I hope you get what I'm trying to tell you, and I hope you can change this world into a better place. Diana.

 

Changing the world is a topic we all like to treat, it is something that makes us want to be better persons, in the most empathic and humble way. But sometimes we forget, that to create a change, we must be the change. First you must change yourself, remember that we are not perfect, but we are perfectible. Be a better person that you were yesterday, then by being a better person you can share this with others, and they will want to change as well.

Changing for the best is not an easy process that is completed in one day, it takes a lot of effort and time.

We must remember that every decision you make is like throwing a rock in the water it won’t stop and one wave will make an other, that is why we must change in a very careful way.

Remember there is no age for change, it does not matter that you are sixteen or forty, as long as you be passionate and constant in what you are doing there is no failure.

"Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.” - Rumi.

 

Do something what you like, dream on it. Live on it, no matter what. If you're asking how could be that things change the worlds, you know, many people prove it works.

If you like to singing, drawing, writing or even just traveling, do it, learn from that things, getting big from that and you'll see the biggest result from what you're doing on.

The key is to be more focus and put some of creativity, start simple.

You don't have to worry if it was just go with a little change for the worlds...it was still called changes. Rangga.

 

I'm a sixteen year old girl too so I know how you feel. Because I feel like that too! The best thing you can do, in my opinion, to change the world is to try to help people (anyone you can), do what you like to do and support all the causes you believe in. That's essential! And make the most of every opportunity you get in life. Change the world in a very big way may be hard but if you try to do what I said I think you can change it in your own way. Live and fight for it, always. Clara.

 

I've been pondering this issue a lot, ever since I was 14 (although I'm only 17 years old now so that's perhaps not too long in the grand scheme of things).

If you're looking for something to do right now, I'd suggest joining a project like It Starts With Us (itstartswith.us). They add you to a mailing list, and they send an email to you each week with a mission that you can do in just 15 minutes. The missions are simple things like "Write a letter to someone that is special to you" or "ask someone spontaneously if they need help". They might sound like silly little things that you'd find in a fortune cookie, but if everyone made an effort to do them, the world would be a much better place!

Meanwhile, if you're looking to change the world in the long run I would suggest working hard so that you can make changing the world your job. If you think books are important, become a writer. If you think learning is important, become a teacher. If you want to save lives, become a doctor. Just keep working towards your ideal world. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it! Tabitha.

 

I too, am sixteen years old. What I have learned from very personal experience is that the world will never be permanently changed. What I've also learned is that one person can make a substantial enough change where an impact can be made. There will always be evil, mischievous, vindictive people. As much as we would love to see it happen, not everyone is willing to stand out and do good things for others.

I've always pushed for "BIG IMMEDIATE CHANGES" but quickly realized it does not happen all fast and easy. I focused (and still continue to) on what I can do to show others that there are people out there that are willing to help. People say, "The little things can mean the most," I believe that is entirely true. A few months ago I saw a freshman sitting alone in a great big room in which he occupied the whole table to himself. When I asked the younger boy to come join me and my other friends at our lunch table the expression on his face was an immediate indicator that I did the right thing. Although completely different, we had so much in common. He constantly thanked me for what I have done and now I have a great friend from doing such a small act of kindness. A change is only going to be made if we find it in ourselves to make that change and I believe that we can do it. Jenna.

 

I think that a 16 years old person can change the world. Once upon a time, a kid named Trevor McKinney had an idea: do a favor to three people and those three people do a favor to another three people etc. With this story, we can notice that is not needed to be 16 years old to chance the world, because Trevor, had 12 years old. So, we can also notice that we can change the world independently what age we have. Ines.

 

I think the biggest way to change the world is to be yourself. Everyone is given their own special set of talents. It can be art, music, science or whatever. With those talents, you can give a positive influence and message to those around you, your community. You might feel like you don't have any talents but everyone has one. It might not seem like a talent to you but it can be to others. Being a positive person in this world is already changing it. You can influence those in your community with your positive spirit and they might spread it on to others creating a chain. It might not seem much but by helping your community, it does have a significant impact. I hope this helps and good luck. Sam, Indonesia

 

Change. It means to be different.

The world. It means the existence of humanity itself.

To change the world would mean to change the existence of humanity itself. You can't just "change" humanity just like that. No, it doesn't work that way. Do you know what needs to change in this world? It's the way humanity thinks. An example: is how we treat each other as humans, as equals. Another example: how the way you, me, and everyone else thinks. If you want to change the world, you need to do everything you can to stop blending in, and do all in your soul to stand out. I can't tell you in just 250 words on how to "change" the world- because it's like asking a 16 year old to define themselves in 250 words. They can't, I can't. You know, I have a story to tell you, but you said only 250 words. Someone once told me that at times, the world may seem like a sinister and unfriendly place, but to believe them when there is much more good in it, than there is bad. I think that they're right. Sierra.

 

Thanks to the overwhelming number of people who replied to this week’s question. There were so many that more replies will appear next Friday.

The Oracle is taking a break but a new Team Oracle question will be posted next week. Please check back then to help Nathan who is struggling to trust again after his divorce.

June 17, 2013 - submitted by Coty, United States of America

 

Q. Hello Oracle!

I was looking into purchasing the globe used in the parachutes album because of my strange attraction to it. I don't mean the one actually used in the photo, but the model of it. I know it is at WHSmith, but I'm not sure which globe to purchase. Please help!

Live life.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

That globe was bought back in 1999 so I doubt that the globes they stock now - of which there are many - are the exact same model as the Parachutes cover.

I think you're better just buying the one you like that fits your budget...

June 17, 2013 - submitted by Lucas, United States of America

 

Q. Hey Oracle,

This may seem like a random question, but I hope you can answer it.

You've talked before about making covers of songs (specifically Coldplay songs) But what are the rules when it comes to covering/performing or even recording an unreleased song?

 

For example, I'm a huge fan of a song called Until the Water Flows Over (I suppose it's also known as Solid Ground) that was never released (why it wasn't, I don't think I'll ever understand). It was played live once, I believe. And the instrumental leaked online some time ago.

With what we have of the song, could I be able to cover/perform or record a variation of this song without any problems? If not, what could I do about it?

 

Thanks Oracle!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Rules for cover versions aren't the exact same in every territory but generally speaking you can cover anything but you can't record a song that hasn't been recorded by the originators.

 

Playing it live is also tricky because unreleased songs aren't registered and therefore royalties and monies earned from live performance wouldn't reach the writers.

 

A song in existence whether recorded or not is still copyrighted to the publisher/label/artist...

June 17, 2013 - submitted by Nabil, Kuwait

 

Q. Hey Oracle!

Can you please tell me what Chris said about Dads in

?

Happy Father's Day!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

After saying "this song is for Jonny Cash (who once stood on this stage himself)" - who 'Til Kingdom Come was written for - he says "this is for my dad also. In fact all the dads in the world. Even Gay Dad* who played here some years ago. And the guy from My Two Dads+"...

 

* Gay Dad were a British band who started around the same time as Coldplay but split up in 2002.

+ My Two Dads was an American sitcom in the late 80s.

June 18, 2013 - submitted by Catalina and Carla, United States of America

 

Q. Hi Oracle! This is Catalina and Carla. We wanted to know the kind of stuff Coldplay does while they are on their tourbus. Do they play scrabble, have pillow fights, watch a good movie, or just practice their music? Just wondering. Thanks!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

The band don't actually have a tourbus and that's not how they travel to gigs but... they read, listen to music and chat en route.

June 18, 2013 - submitted by Jacob, United States of America

 

Q. Hey Oracle!

 

In the Roadie entry #175, it mentioned Oldlay quite a lot. What exactly is Oldlay? Is it a spinoff of Coldplay?

 

Thanks, Jacob

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

In Roadie #42's blog he explains that "For many years, there has been a “crew band” comprised mainly of the backline department, but filled out by anyone who fancies getting involved. Robyn’s tour manager it seems, is none other than Ali McMordie, from seminal punk heroes Stiff Little Fingers. He’s taken the bass spot on the stage and I arrive on the arena floor just as they finish a rousing cover of Anarchy In The UK".

Oldplay are the crew band. They jam for fun at sound checks.

Oldplay is pure awesomeness

Oldplay is pure awesomeness

 

indeed :smug:

June 19, 2013 - submitted by Carolina, Mexico

 

Q. Hola, Hallo, Hello Oracle!

I know this is one of the most stupid questions ever, but I have curiosity to know.. Where does Chris gets his haircut? I love it! I know I'm a girl, but maybe I go on a trip to London and I decide to get a haircut, and then when I have my amazing haircut I will say I got it where Chris Martin goes! Hahahaha.

Please reply, even if you don't know!

Greetings and Cheers from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!

Ps: I'm very glad Chris Martin's Mylo Xyloto hairstyle came back, he looks so hot in it! Take Care Oracle.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I prefer the long hair look too - he usually grows it after a tour.

Anyway, as far as I am aware, his hairdresser - I have totally forgotten her name - comes to the studio and cuts his hair there.

I don't think she works in a salon...

June 19, 2013 - submitted by Guillaume, France

 

Q. Oracle hello! What is your happiest memory with Coldplay?

 

Thanks.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Gosh there are so many that it would be hard to choose one.

From the early days I'd say Parachutes going to #1 and hearing their name read out winning their first Brit Award. Since then the happiest moments are usually on tour.

June 19, 2013 - submitted by Piyush, India

 

Q. Hi Oracle,

Can you tell me who is that guy working as the main Coldplay soundman and testing mics and everything on the MX tour? He didn't quite look like Dan Green. Who is he? And why not Dan Green this time.

Thanks.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Dan Green is the FOH (front of house) sound engineer so he's not on the stage testing mics etc.

It may surprise you to learn there is a Monitor Engineer (& assistant) as well as a Sound Crew of 6. Dan Green has a FOH assistant too.

I Can't help imagining a Coldplay pillow fight now, lol. I wonder if it ever happened in the old days!:lol:

^Whew! I thought it was just me that's been imagining a CP pillow fight ever since I read that.

^It's nice to know you're not alone in your insanity!

 

Chris would naturally start it, Jonny woulk act too cool to get involved but then jump in laughing, Guy would fix his hair afyer every whollop and Will would tell them all to grow up...right before grabbing the thickest pillow on the bus and kicking their butts!:lol: