Welcome to Sunday in a Sip. It's April 13th, 2025. Today, we reflect on the spirit of freedom and faith. Let’s celebrate Palm Sunday’s hope and Passover’s deliverance. May your day be filled with peace, purpose, and a sip of something meaningful
So, kick back, relax, and let your mind unwind as we dive into the week’s most intriguing headlines, and more. Let’s sip, reflect, and embrace this week’s order of disorder together.
You can now listen to Sunday in a sip.
Oh, did you grab your Sunday in a Sip blanket?
Economy
Wall Street ended one of its most volatile weeks ever, but recovered with a final jolt.
Gold Price $3237.50
Oil Price $59.77 per barrel WTI
GOLD HIT RECORD HIGH and Oil keeps Dropping
Gold prices surged past $3,200 per ounce for the first time in history, driven by a weakening U.S. dollar and escalating trade tensions. Spot gold climbed 2% to $3,236.67, while U.S. gold futures rose 1.9% to $3,237.50
Both oil benchmarks are on track for their second consecutive weekly decline, with Brent down approximately 38% and WTI 35% over the past two weeks. As of Friday, Brent crude futures dipped 0.39% to $63 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 0.50% to $59.77
China is America’s Fault
We are fools, yes Americans, we’ve made some big mistakes, and as Americans, we all share the blame. For over 40 years, we’ve relied on China to make our stuff because it was cheap. We hoped that one day, things would change, and China would become more like us, but they are communists. China is a communist one-party state, ruled by the Chinese Communist Party and we the U.S.A. is a constitutional federal republic and a representative democracy.
But now the future is here, and China has the upper hand. COVID-19 showed us just how much we depend on China, especially for important things like medicine and supplies. That’s a big problem for our country.
Here are just 5 Then (USA) and Now (China).
Manufacturing & Industrial Output
Then (USA):
For much of the 20th century, the U.S. was the world’s factory, producing everything from cars to steel.
Now (China):
China is now the largest manufacturer on Earth, churning out electronics, machinery, textiles, and much more. Guess what it is fueled by cheaper labor and massive industrial scaling.Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Then (USA):
The U.S. used to manufacture the majority of its own medicines, from antibiotics to generics. American pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, Merck, and Johnson & Johnson dominated not just R&D, but production, too.Now (China):
While the U.S. still leads in drug development, much of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), this is the stuff that actually makes medicine work are now made in China. Estimates suggest 80–90% of the raw ingredients in American medicine are sourced from China.Another reason to worry about supply chain security, especially after COVID-19 exposed just how dependent the U.S. has become on China’s pharmaceutical production.
Infrastructure Development in Developing Nations
Then (USA):
Through programs like the Marshall Plan and USAID, the U.S. helped build infrastructure in emerging nations during the Cold War.
Now (China):
With its Belt and Road Initiative, China is building roads, ports, railways, and digital networks across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, buying influence along the way.Global Trade Dominance
Then (USA):
The U.S. led global trade, writing the rules and setting the terms via institutions like the WTO and trade agreements like NAFTA.
Now (China):
China has become the largest trading partner for over 120 countries and plays a growing role in reshaping global trade policies—often on its own terms.Mass Electronics & Consumer Goods Production
Then (USA):
U.S. brands like RCA, Motorola, and IBM once produced consumer electronics domestically.
Now (China):
Nearly every major tech product—iPhones, laptops, smart home devices—is now made in China. Shenzhen has become the global tech manufacturing hub.
The U.S.-China tariff conflict reached new heights this week. President Trump raised duties on Chinese imports to 145%, prompting Beijing to retaliate with a 125% tariff on U.S. good, up 84%, so guess what stop buying made in China people. Wake up.
U.S. News
Got the Munchies 4/20
Hostess is celebrating its 106-year-old brand by rolling out the Hostess Munchie Mobile. The J.M. Smucker Co. acquired Hostess two years ago for $4.6 billion, and will be dispersing snack cakes and Twinkies at various stops along the East Coast through the infamous weed holiday 4/20.
America’s Youth Flunk Fitness Test
The Pentagon’s sounding the alarm—77% of young Americans (ages 17–24) are unfit for military service. The culprits? Obesity, drug use, and mental health issues. It’s not just a public health crisis—it’s a threat to national defense. With 11% disqualified due to weight alone, and more blocked by substance abuse or medical issues, our all-volunteer force is running on empty.
The senior United States senator from North Carolina, Sen. Thom Tillis says the crisis is real and worsening. While the Marines and Space Force held the line on recruitment, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard missed the mark.
Experts say it’s time to ditch the screens, get moving, and bring fitness back to schools and communities. This isn’t just about six-packs. It’s about saving the future of the military.
Time to tighten the laces, America.
April’s Pink Moon: A Springtime Spectacle
Did you look up last night and see the moon? The night sky was illuminated by April’s Full Pink Moon, a celestial event steeped in tradition and natural beauty. Reaching its peak brightness on Saturday, April 12, at 8:22 p.m. EDT, this full moon offers a stunning sight for stargazers and a reminder of spring’s renewal. While it won’t actually appear pink, the moon’s name carries historical and cultural significance tied to the season. The moon will appear full for about three days, from Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
Why Is It Called the Pink Moon?
"Pink Moon" originates from Native American and colonial traditions, referring to Phlox subulata, a vibrant pink wildflower that blooms in early spring. This moon’s name celebrates the arrival of warmer days and the blossoming of life after winter’s chill. Other cultures have their own names for this lunar event, such as the Paschal Moon in Christian traditions, which determines the date of Easter. This year, the date of Easter is set for Sunday, April 20.
A Supermoon in Virgo
Adding to its allure, this year’s Pink Moon is also a supermoon. This means it will appear slightly larger and brighter than usual as it reaches its perigee—the closest point to Earth in its orbit. The moon will be located in the constellation Virgo, near Spica, one of the brightest stars in the night sky. Observers in Latin America, parts of Africa, and the Caribbean may even witness a rare lunar occultation of Spica during this event.
When and How to Watch
The best time to catch the Pink Moon is during moonrise on Saturday evening or moonset early Sunday morning. As it hovers low on the horizon, an optical illusion may make it appear larger and more colorful—a phenomenon known as the "moon illusion." For those in North America, the full moon will be visible all night long, rising in the east at dusk and setting in the west at dawn. Get your Free Video Moon Reading
Cultural Significance
In addition to its astronomical appeal, April’s full moon holds deep cultural meaning. For Christians, it is known as the Paschal Moon because it sets the date for Easter. In Native American traditions, it symbolizes growth and renewal—a celebration of nature coming back to life after winter. This year’s Pink Moon also falls under Libra astrologically, emphasizing themes of balance and harmony.
Don’t Miss It
Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply enjoy gazing at the night sky, this weekend’s Pink Moon promises a breathtaking display. Grab a pair of binoculars or simply step outside to marvel at one of nature’s most reliable wonders. Get your Free Video Moon Reading. This video will really make your day. Check it out today.
Click this button below.
Politics
59% of Americans approve of President Trump’s immigration policies, including deportation efforts and restrictions on immigration. However, only around 40% support his handling of the economy and trade negotiations.
Iran and US agree to more talks over Tehran's nuclear program after 1st round in Oman.
Louisiana immigration judge ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate student and green card holder who participated in pro-Palestine protests, can be deported because the government believes he is a national security risk
Entertainment
Coachella 2025
The iconic music festival kicked off on April 11, featuring headliners like Lady Gaga, Green Day, and Post Malone. The event is live-streamed on YouTube. Go watch it.
Pour Over Life
Listen, I once told a friend you can do it, and guess what? My friend did. Like a Broadway understudy who finally got their shot, and rose to the occasion. Encouragement isn’t a Hallmark card. It’s a shot of espresso to the soul. One sentence, well-aimed, can turn a quitter into a contender. So next time a friend is thinking that they can’t make it, do it, or is down on themselves, be that extra, and tell them they’ve got it. Push ’em, praise ’em, pour it on thick if you have to. Because when the world’s busy screaming “no,” be the badass whispering, “You own this.” Trust me. It matters. I’m Marcel. I know things.
Get your mug and show your support Sunday in a sip. Look at the Sunday in a sip mug gallery and start collecting today.
Start Collecting Today
Spring is Here
Yes cuddle and help support Sunday in a sip with this beautiful blanket offered in three different sizes. Celebrating Spring 2025. Start your day cozy or end it in comfort with the Spring Blossoms 2025 Plush Blanket—exclusively available in the Sunday in a Sip online store.
Thank you.
And if this sparked your interest, hit❤️, and follow for more.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your day today. Embrace the sunrise, chase your dreams, and make today the day you turn possibilities into realities.
Let’s Drink Together
Grab your favorite hot beverage and join me in keeping Sunday in a Sip thriving. Your financial support—no matter the amount—fuels the heart and soul of this weekly inspiration. Together, we can lift Sundays to new heights, turning quiet moments into something extraordinary. Every sip, every contribution, makes a difference. Let’s make it happen—together.
If you want to learn more, send me an email. Leave comments, and I will answer. Don't forget you can also read all past newsletters here.
Marcel’s Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.