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|Worthy News Brief - March 18, 2014
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Worthy News Features
Belarus: Christian-run Homeless Shelter Closed
A private homeless shelter run by a Christian in Belarus has been legally stripped of its license to operate, according to Barnabas Aid.
California Residents Protest Cross Removal with More Crosses
California citizens are protesting the removal of a large memorial cross by publicly displaying smaller crosses bearing messages for the atheists whose complaints caused the memorial to be taken down, according to International Christian Concern.
Today's Breaking News
Around the World
Russia recognizes Crimea's independence, defying new U.S. and E.U. sanctions - Washington Post
The international crisis over Ukraine escalated sharply Monday as the United States and Europe imposed sanctions on senior Russian political and military figures, and Russian President Vladmir Putin signed a decree recognizing the Ukrainian region of Crimea as an independent state.
Experts say sanctions will have little influence on Vladimir Putin - Washington Examiner
The White House on Monday trumpeted sanctions against senior Kremlin officials as the most extensive economic punishment imposed on Russia since the Cold War.
Report: Iran Killing More People than Ever - Washington Free Beacon
Iran is executing people in record-breaking numbers not seen for more than 15 years in the Islamic nation, with nearly 200 individuals having been executed in the first few months of this year alone, according to human rights activists.
Crimea adopts ruble, sets up new central bank after vote on seeking to join Russia - Ottawa Citizen
Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula is taking steps to integrate its financial system with Russia's -- including adopting the ruble currency -- after the region overwhelmingly voted in favour of seceding and seeking to join Russia.
Russia vows to switch to other currencies over US sanctions threat - Glazyev - Voice of Russia
Russia can dodge any proposed US sanctions by switching to other currencies and creating its own payment system, Putin's economic advisor Sergei Glazyev said Tuesday.
Russian Deputy PM Laughs at Obama's Sanctions - ABC News
Russia's deputy prime minister laughed off President Obama's sanction against him today asking "Comrade @BarackObama" if "some prankster" came up with the list.
Ukraine crisis could strain Iran nuclear talks - Times of Israel
Tehran may have a new ally when Iran nuclear talks reconvene Tuesday -- the Ukraine crisis. US-Russian tensions over Ukraine could fray the search for consensus on what Iran needs to do to ease fears it could make atomic arms.
Russia Will Sanction U.S. Senators - Daily Beast
U.S. senators, congressmen and top Obama administration officials are sure to be on Vladimir Putin's sanctions list; a response to the Obama Administration's announcement on Monday that 7 Russian officials and 4 Ukrainian officials would be barred from holding assets or traveling to the United States.
Ukraine 'will never accept' Crimea annexation, President says - CNN
Western powers slapped sanctions on more than two dozen Russian officials and their allies in Ukraine's Crimea region on Monday, while Ukrainian officials vowed they would never accept the territory's annexation by Russia.
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
Jordan Blames 'Extremist Settlers' for Temple Mount 'Aggression' - Arutz Sheva
Jordan's Minister for Media Affairs, Mohammad Momani, strongly condemned Israeli "aggression" at the Temple Mount on Monday, 24 hours after Housing and Construction Minister Uri Ariel ascended the mount in a pre-planned visit to the Mount that was cut short by police.
White House Seeks to Replace Netanyahu? - WND
In recent weeks, representatives for the Obama administration have held meetings with a senior politician here in which the U.S. delegates brought up the possibility of replacing Benjamin Netanyahu as prime minister, according to an informed Jerusalem diplomatic source.
Kerry pushes Abbas to make 'tough decisions' in talks - Times of Israel
Top US diplomat John Kerry urged Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas on Sunday to work hard to narrow huge differences with the Israelis at a "pivotal" time for peace talks.
Obama to Abbas: Palestinians must take risks for peace - Times of Israel
US President Barack Obama on Monday told Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas that he would have to make tough political decisions and take "risks" for peace, as would Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Abbas, for his part, reiterated his rejection of Israel's demand that its status as a Jewish state be enshrined in a future peace accord, asserting that previous Palestinian recognition of Israel was sufficient.
Inside the United States
Bible controversy hits Air Force base - Fox News
For more than a decade new military recruits at Maxwell Air Force Base -- Gunter Annex in Alabama have received a Bible from Gideons International volunteers. But that tradition has come to an end after volunteers said they were told by the military that they would no longer be allowed to personally distribute the pocket-sized Bibles to recruits.
Tax Revenues Hit Record in First 5 Months of FY14; 5-Month Deficit Still $377B - CNS News
Inflation-adjusted federal tax revenues hit a record $1,104,947,000,000 in the first five months of fiscal 2014, but the federal government still ran a $377,379,000,000 deficit during that time, according to the Monthly Treasury Statement for February.
4.4 L.A. earthquake a wake-up call for residents to prepare - LA Times
The magnitude 4.4 earthquake that struck near Westwood early Monday was a "rude awakening" for Angelenos who remain vulnerable to being caught unprepared by a major temblor, Mayor Eric Garcetti said.
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Britons would rather dump their old PCs than recycle them, reports new research by Fujitsu-Siemens Computers.
The research highlighted that 12.5 million unwanted but working PCs and laptops have not been reused or recycled by their owners. Of those surveyed, 5.1 million said they took their old computer to their local dump, while more than a million admitted to dumping redundant machines in household rubbish or even in the countryside.
Only one in 10 unwanted PCs were recycled through a manufacturer's recycling facility, with 40 percent of those going to a friend or charity, which Fujitsu described as a "huge missed opportunity".

subset: commoncrawl


text: Coronation Street spoilers: Les Dennis joining the ITV soap to play petty criminal Michael Rogers The actor and comedian will appear on screen from March Comments Written By David Brown 7:06 PM, 23 January 2014 Actor and comedian Les Dennis is to join the cast of Coronation Street to play a petty criminal. His character, Michael Rogers, will be seen caught up in the lives of a family on the cobbles after he breaks into their house. The former host of Family Fortunes said today: "I am so thrilled to be joining the cast of Coronation Street. It has always been my favourite television programme as it mixes high drama with some of the best comedy on screen. "I've loved it since the beginning. I grew up watching all the amazing characters in the show. I now not only have the chance of meeting them, but also working with them. It doesn't get better than that." Dennis - who recently guest-starred in the Christmas episode of Midsomer Murders - starts filming on Monday 27 January and will appear on screen from late March. Coronation Street producer Stuart Blackburn said of his latest signing: ""Les is a fantastic performer and a real coup for Corrie. I can't wait for him to join the team." Les Dennis first came to prominence in 1974 when he won the ITV talent show New Faces. He went on to form a comedy partnership with fellow impressionist Dustin Gee, the pair being best known for their impersonations of Coronation Street characters Mavis Riley and Vera Duckworth. You can see Dennis reprising his Mavis voice for Ricky Gervais in an excerpt from Extras below: Like this? Share it. Facebook Twitter Google Tumblr Pinterest Blogger Reddit VKontakt Print Email


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by Mark Lieberman
The story of Jason and the Argonauts is a classic myth that was written by Apollonius of Rhodes in the third century BC. He was not the first to tell the story, but his version is the best known today. The story has been depicted in a variety of ways over the years. Yet, despite the fact that Apollonius' story has often been adapted to better suit the times, the original version was so strong that the newer versions do not vary greatly from the original. Numerous authors have translated it for modern audiences. William Morris' 1867 novel The Life and Death of Jason is based on Apollonius' story but features several notables differences. There have been two separate movies based on the story as well. The 1963 film Jason and the Argonauts offers an abbreviated version of the ancient myth. In 2000, NBC aired a four-hour miniseries adaptation of the classic story. Both films relied heavily on special effects, and the 1963 film was praised for featuring effects that were considered ahead of its time. This paper will first examine the classic myth and then note the different ways that the story has been told in books and films. There will also be an analysis of possible reasons for changing certain details in each of the versions.
· Apollonius' ancient story
Though there are differences that will be noted in film and book versions, the basic storyline remains the same as told by Apollonius. Jason is the son of Aison, the former king of Iolcus. The kingship is then taken over by the power-hungry Pelias. Aison's relation to Pelias differs in some versions of the story, but most accounts label them brothers. Fearing that her son would be killed by Pelias, Jason's mother sends him away to live in the cave of Chiron the Centaur, where he is raised until adulthood. It is then that Jason returns to Iolcus to claim the throne, which he believes is rightfully his. On his way to Iolcus, he is tested by the goddess Hera. Disguised as an elderly woman, Hera begs Jason to help her across a stream. He agrees and takes her on his back. Jason's good will impresses Hera, and she makes it her duty to help him on his journey.
Once in Iolcus, Jason meets with Pelias and asserts his right to the throne. Pelias is unwilling to step down, and he sends Jason on a quest to find the Golden Fleece. Jason puts together a fine crew and names them the Argonauts and their ship the Argo. The most famous member of the crew is the mighty Herakles. The Argonauts leave Iolcus and set sail for Colchis, the land of the Golden Fleece. The ship first stops at Lemnos, an island populated entirely by women. It is at Lemnos that the crew loses Herakles, the most well-liked and well-respected crewmate.
The Argo makes its way to Salmydessus, where the crew chases flying Harpies away from the island's king Phineus. To show his gratitude, Phineus warns them that they will soon encounter the Clashing Rocks. The rocks crash together whenever a ship tries to get through. The secret, Phineus says, is to release a bird between the rocks so that they come together. The Argo would then have enough time to pass through before the rocks come together again. The plan works, and the crew makes it safely to Colchus.
Jason meets with Aeetes, the king of Colchus, who dislikes Jason but agrees to give him the Golden Fleece if he could help out with some farmyard "chores." The chores are actually seemingly impossible tasks designed to kill Jason and keep the Fleece in Colchus. Fortunately for Jason, the goddess Aphrodite makes Medea, the daughter of Aeetes, fall in love with Jason. Medea has magical powers, which she uses to help Jason complete the assigned tasks. First Jason was ordered to harness two fire-breathing bulls. He then had to plant some dragon's teeth in the field. As the teeth hit the soil, they sprouted into armed warriors. Without Medea's assistance, Jason would have surely been killed, but thanks to her magic he manages to harness the bull and kill the warriors.
Aeetes had promised to give the Fleece to Jason, but he confided to Medea that he would go back on his word. Angered, Medea leads Jason to the location of the Fleece, where it is guarded by a dragon. She gives the dragon a sleeping potion, which allows Jason to grab the Fleece. The Argonauts quickly set sail as they are pursued by Aeetes' army. On the return trip to Greece, the Argo is safely guided with help from Hera. The end of the story differs in book and film adaptation, but in the ancient myth Medea kills Pelias and Jason becomes king.
Morris' adaptation
William Morris was a British writer, designer, and politician. He is actually quite well known for his artwork on stained glass, textiles, and wallpapers. In 1867, he wrote The Life and Death of Jason. The differences between Morris' version and the ancient myth are not very significant. One difference is that when the Argo makes its first stop, at the island of Lemnos, the crew is forced to leave without Hercules. The reason for Hercules' disappearance differs in The Life and Death of Jason. One of the young crew members, Hylas, wanders off alone and comes upon a group of sea-nymphs. The sea-nymphs seduce Hylas into loving them. Meanwhile, the Argo is ready to leave the island so Herakles decides to search for Hylas. During the search, Juno causes the winds to blow and the crew is forced to set sail without Herakles and Hylas. In some previous tellings of the story, Hylas is dragged under a spring with one of the sea-nymphs and drowns. Other versions omit any mention of Hylas and the sea-nymphs. The reason for Morris' rather extended story about Hylas and the sea-nymphs likely stems from his artistic background. Morris likely wanted to stay true to the original story while complementing it with his personal touch.
· The Movie Adaptations
The first movie adaptation of the ancient myth was Jason and the Argonauts, a 1963 feature film release from Columbia TriStar Pictures. Again, the basic plot is the same as in Apollonius' version, but there are numerous specific details that have been changed. In the ancient myth, Jason loses his sandal while transporting the elderly woman across the river. In the 1963 film, Pelias starts to drown in a river and Jason jumps in to save him, losing a sandal in the process. Jason is unaware that the man he has saved is Pelias, and the king does not identify himself because he notices that Jason has only one sandal, and a prophet had warned Pelias of a "one-sandaled stranger." Still not realizing the identity of the man, Jason proceeds to tell Pelias of his plan to become king of Iolcus. Pelias then suggests that Jason attempt to recover the Golden Fleece. Pelias convinces Jason that if he were able to gain possession of the Fleece, he would have the power to overthrow Pelias. One possible reason for this plot difference is that it is a more dramatic way for Pelias to meet Jason. It is ironic that Jason unknowingly saves the life of the man he has come to overthrow. By saving Pelias' life, Jason pleases the gods by demonstrating his bravery. After the prophet's prediction of a "one-sandaled stranger," it creates a dramatic moment when Jason emerges from the water wearing only one sandal. It also allows for Jason to begin his journey early in the movie, allowing more time to be spent on the Argo's quest.
Another difference between the ancient myth and the 1963 film is the Clashing Rocks scene. Instead of releasing a dove to fly between the rocks (as in previous versions), Jason throws an idol into the water. Poseidon arises from the sea and holds back the rocks, allowing the Argo to sail safely to the other side. A possible reason for this plot change may again be dramatic effect. Perhaps the movie's writers found it more visually stimulating to have Poseidon emerge from the sea and hold back the rocks, as opposed to simply watching the Argo sail through easily thanks to the dove. Certain scenes in the movie seem to be aimed at amazing the audience through the use of revolutionary special effects. Another possibility is that, though the dove escapes unharmed in the myth, the movie's writers did not want to make Jason look cruel for risking the bird's death.
Another key difference is noticed in the Clashing Rocks scene. In the film, Jason finds Medea floating in the sea on a piece of a ship that had been destroyed by the rocks. She and Jason fall in love and she agrees to help Jason find the Golden Fleece. In the ancient myth, Medea is not seen until Jason arrives in Colchis. The reason for this plot difference seems to be aimed at keeping the movie from running too long. It saves time for Jason to meet Medea before he gets to Colchis. It is also possible that the writers decided that this chance encounter between Jason and Medea would be used to show that the two were destined to be together.
The most recent movie adaptation is a miniseries version that ran on NBC in May 2000. The film, which was shot on location in Turkey, received mixed reviews from television critics. Many of the scenes from Apollonius' story that were left out of the 1963 film are included in the new version, which is not surprising since the miniseries runs three hours. The opening scene is quite different from previous adaptations. Jason's father is killed by Pelias, and Jason barely escapes death. Later, when Jason decides to embark on the journey for the Golden Fleece, the crew he rounds up is notably different than in past versions of the story. Whereas the ancient myth described a crew of heroes, many members of the Argonauts in this film could be considered weak underdogs. The crew members certainly have heart, but it seems doubtful that they have the experience necessary for a successful voyage. For example, one Argonaut is a thief who only volunteers his services to escape from authorities who are searching for him. Two other crewmen are portrayed as bumbling idiots. Argos nearly refuses to set sail because he fears certain death for the inexperienced crew. The reason that the writers decided to feature a much weaker crew is likely because it is easier for the audience to root for them. The villagers laughed at the crew Jason had assembled, and he set out to prove them wrong. Movies in recent years often highlight the role of the underdog, and rags-to-riches movies have proven popular with audiences. Modern audiences love an underdog, and television viewers could easily identify with many members of Jason's crew. It makes for a better story.
The role of Herakles is far different in the 2000 film than in previous adaptations. In Apollonius' story, Herakles is separated from the crew early in the story. This forces the Argonauts to pull together and overcome their obstacles without their hero. But in the 2000 film, Herakles nearly makes it back to Iolcus with the rest of the crew. It is not until after they have arrived in Colchis and Jason has completed the king's challenges that Herakles meets his death. As Aeetes' soldiers chase the Argonauts (who are on their way to find the fleece) Herakles tells Jason he has been ordered by the gods to protect Jason. As the soldiers finally catch up, Herakles sacrifices his own life to save Jason. If not for Herakles' bravery, Jason likely would have been killed by Aeetes' soldiers. Herakles has become a role model for Jason by this point in the movie. By keeping his character around until they reach Colchis, the movie's writers allow the audience to feel the pain that Jason goes through when Herakles finally dies. It is a pivotal moment in the film.
Two final key differences in the 2000 film are seen near the end of the movie. In the ancient story, Hera gives a sleeping potion to the dragon that guards the fleece. In the 2000 version, Jason tricks the dragon into falling off a cliff to its death. The ending of the film is also quite different than in previous versions. Most adaptations of the myth have a dark ending, but in the final scenes of the 2000 film Medea kills the villain Pelias and then marries Jason as the film ends.
Jason and the Argonauts is a classic story that has been told to audiences of all ages for thousands of years. Throughout the years, there have been numerous adaptations of the myth, and most versions have stayed true to Apollonius' telling of the story. Some authors have given the tale their own personal touch, but the main plot details were left in tact. Recent film versions have added some dramatic touches to the story without straying far from Apollonius' vision. The fact that the films have few significant variations from a myth written over 2,000 years ago is a credit to Apollonius' storytelling ability. In a time when classic stories are constantly being changed to suit the needs of Hollywood, it is refreshing to see that Jason and the Argonauts has stood the test of time.
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For further reading, check it out: Jason: A Hero or Not


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Saturday 5th September 2009
Message of Rain Retreat , Rupa Banduwardena; Now being the Vassana Kala, the retreat period of three months, it is of utmost religious significance in Buddha Sasana coming down from the days of Sakyamuni Gautama. Thathagatha, the perfect one. This is a short unique period of spiritual eventful religious activities of utmost faith for the Buddhist clergy as well as the laity.
Financial perspectives in Buddhism ; Venerable Ajahn Punnadammo Arrow River Forest Hermitage, Canada; Now after several centuries of elaboration, we are into a fantastic realm of abstractions of abstractions. Fractional reserve banking creates money which is based on nothing at all, not even bits of paper. Understanding the levels of abstraction involved in derivatives is a special science.
Encouragement of charity Dana Sutta: Giving: Thanissaro Bhikkhu; Translated from the Pali ; Before giving, glad; while giving, the mind is bright and clear; having given, one is gratified: This is the consummation of the sacrifice.
Small comfort ; Lotus Heart - One day while walking through the wilderness a man stumbled upon a vicious tiger. He ran but soon came to the edge of a high cliff. Desperate to save himself, he climbed down a vine and dangled over the fatal precipice. As he hung there, two mice appeared from a hole in the cliff and began gnawing on the vine. Suddenly, he noticed a plump wild strawberry on the vine. He plucked it and popped it in his mouth.
Sacred opportunity to the laity; Final preparations prior to the final Puja: The Buddhist looks forward to the event with immense piety considering it a unique achievement and an immortal gain. Then he prepares for the final event, which is said to bless his abode, the family and his life, in this world and the next.
Buddhism and Science go together
Particle physicists emphasize the role of the observer in defining anything. For example, from a certain point of view, light is matter; from another point of view, it is energy. What type of phenomenon light seems to exist as depends on many variables, particularly on the conceptual framework the investigator is using to analyze it. Thus, phenomena do not exist inherently as this or that from their own sides, unrelated to the consciousness that perceives them.
Gay Marriage and the Americone Dream
In honor of the passage of Vermont's same-sex marriage law, Ben & Jerry's has announced that for 30 days (only in Vermont), "Chubby Hubby" ice cream will be sold as "Hubby Hubby." Stephen Colbert's Americone Dream could not be reached for comment, but rumors are that the caramel-and-waffley-chocolate-bits-flavor called the announcement a cheap publicity stunt in private.
Dalai Lama leads thousands in prayers for disaster victims
The Dalai Lama led over 17,000 Buddhists in a two hour assembly to pray for blessing for the hundreds of Taiwanese who lost their lives in land, mud and rock slides and floods triggered by the torrential rains of Typhoon Morakot in southern Taiwan in early August.
Flora of the Buddha- the Lotus
Where language fails when one is trying to communicate the deeper levels of meaning of meditation and truth, symbolism is often used, often in the form of a non-sentient object such as a mandala, stupa, or wheel.
Bodh Gaya makes you transcend into another world
It was December last year when I was in Gaya for an official reason but my work ended two days prior to leaving for Kolkata. My friend suggested I visit Bodh Gaya one of the most important destinations associated with Buddhism.
The first order of Buddhist nuns
Today (3rd September) is the celebration of Binara Poya day, the full moon of September. The observation of this day marks when the first order of Bhikkhunis was founded by the Buddha. While he knew at the time that the order would not last due to the prejudices of the day, he also knew that women were as likely as men to wish to follow the Dhamma and acheive the final goal.
"National prosperity enriches Buddhism"
The pines and cypresses are a lush green, and a bell rings far away. August was a busy time at the Arhat Temple in the city of Shifang, Sichuan province.
August 2009
The marvel of miracle Sachitra Mahendra - The Brahmin flew over the river to the other side. He had achieved that spiritual position, thought his acolyte. In the line was the Buddha with his closest associate Monk Ananda. Monk Ananda who was wondering if the Buddha wanted to outsmart the Brahmin. The Buddha stepped into the raft softly, and gave out a few coins to him upon the end of the river cruise.
The Buddhas spiritual strength As laid down in Mahasihanada Sutta: Sariputta, the Tathagata has these ten Tathagatas powers, possessing which he claims the herd-leaders place, roars his lions roar in the assemblies, and sets rolling the Wheel of Brahma. What are the ten? 1. Here, the Tathagata understands as it actually is the possible as possible and the impossible as impossible.
Buddhism in South India Anne E. Monius - The soaring towers of the great temples dedicated to the Hindu gods Siva and Visnu have taken charge of the religious landscape in the Tamil-speaking corner of Southeast India. Impressive shrines built by a succession of powerful medieval dynasties cover the region, from Kancipuram in the North to Sriralkam, Citamparam, Tancavur, and Maturai.
Can Buddhist principles help cure the climate crisis?
We live in an age where truth has become an illusion of sorts with both sides of an argument able to cite sources that back their own individualistic claims, but if we look at humanity as a singular whole, then the entire spectrum of thought becomes a circular view of which we are all a part.
We don't get a lot of UFO stories from Myanmar and have no idea how common UFO sightings are there. This particular sighting however is believed by both witnesses and viewers to not involve a UFO but a flying Buddhist Monk. The reader, from Myanmar, who sent us the link to this video (below) told us that: ........
Ancient Sri Lanka-Myanmar links rediscovered
The 12th century painted murals from the Mahavamsa, four abodes of Sinhalese monks and 260 large monuments influenced by Sinhalese were some of the discoveries made by a Sri Lankan team led by scholar Dr. Hema Goonatilake and Sri Lanka Embassy staff including Sri Lankan Ambassador to Myanmar Newton Gunaratne on a recent study visit to the ancient Myanmar city of Bagan.
Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya Rupa Banduwardena - There is the cultural heritage, folktales and oral tradition handed down by the pious indigenes which revolve round Bellanwila temple. A close study reveals that the ideas expressed are true and there is no reason to doubt the truth of it. But little is known by the present devotees.
Expel your ghost Lotus Heart -That mans wife was very sick. It was a lethal one, doctors said. So she wanted to talk to her husband on the deathbed. Love, I care for you so much. Its so hard I have to leave you. But I hope you wont forget and betray me. Promise me you wont see any woman. Please! If you break this, I will sure come back to haunt you.
Misinterpretations of Buddhism Rohan L. Jayatilleke - Kamalika Pieris, writing on Buddhism in India in a previous Daily News Buddhist Spectrum, records a diabolical concoction regarding Islam: In North India, Buddhism was replaced by Islam. Islams largest following in India came from the Buddhist areas of North India.
Refreshing the long gone memories of Buddhism
By Fawad Ali Shah KARACHI: There is not even a single monastery in Pakistan, which once remained a hub of Buddhism. It is said that this part of the subcontinent where Gandhara civilisation nurtured has an eminent place in the theology of Buddhism.
Buddhism off the beaten path: An introduction to Bodh Gaya, India
A pleasant three-hour train ride from the popular tourist destination of Varanasi transports you worlds away to the bustling town of Gaya in the less-traveled state of Bihar, widely known as one of the poorest and most lawless in India.
Jesus in India? A BBC documentary concludes Jesus studied Buddhism
A BBC documentary Investigates the possibility of whether or not Jesus spent his youth in India then returned to preach from the knowledge he acquired in India.
Buddhist interpretation on money matters - Venerable Ajahn Punnadammo, Arrow River Forest Hermitage, Canada The whole world is currently suffering a major economic crisis, which has a good chance of being as severe as the depression of the 1930s. Can Buddhist teachings help us understand what is happening? I would like to suggest one way in which it can.
Poyas general impact on laymen Somapala Arandara - Buddhists are ready with religious arrangements to celebrate the Nikini season. The most vital past event connected with Nikini Full Moon Day was the convention of the First Council on the Dhamma. The next important and pragmatic aspect of Nikini is the belated commencement of the stay-indoors custom of the Bhikkhus during the rainy season. (pasu wassana).
The gift of insults Lotus Heart - Once there was a great warrior. He was quite old, but he could still get the better of any challenger. His reputation was spread far and wide throughout that land, so many students wanted to be under his roof. Things went on smooth enough until an infamous young warrior stepped into the village.
Secularizing Buddhism--Making it Accessible or Stripping the Roots?
It's a very common and hip thing today to want to make Buddhism secular. Many very worthwhile organizations and movements have this as their guiding premise. One need only look at the work that Mind and Life Institute is doing to make meditation mainstream in the sciences, or the work that Jon Kabat-Zinn has done with the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction technique, to see the far-reaching impact of making Buddhism secular.
Post 1956 growth of Buddhism - In the study of Buddhism in India, the history of Buddhist writings plagiarising the historians is not so relevant; the present situation of Buddhism in India, the native land of the Buddha and Buddhism is more relevant.
Deity-concept in Buddhism Ven. Meetiyagoda Gunaratna Chief Sanghanayaka Thera of Sri Jayawardenapura - No one can challenge deities. Certain Pirith chanting in Buddhism are also centred round deities. Ratana Sutta is one such example. When the city of Visala suffered from a famine, the Buddha visited the place and chanted the Ratana Sutta!
Swarnatilakas attire Sachitra Mahendra - Swarnatilaka was late anyway. She did not want to miss Ven. Nanaponikas Dhamma talk either. Nanaponika became a monk at 27, so he was well familiar with practical lay life. Both adults and young thronged around him for advice.
How does Buddhism compare with psychotherapy?
Now normally, when one talks about Buddhism, and Zen is a form of Buddhism, it is supposed that you are talking about a religion. And people are apt to classify themselves as Buddhists, as they might say, I am a Catholic, or a Methodist or a Baptist or an Episcopalian; or a Jew. But that is rather misleading. Buddhism is not a religion, in that sense.
Buddhism is fastest-growing religion in English jails over past decade
Buddhism is the fastest-growing religion in England's jails, with the number of followers rising eightfold over the past decade. Although adherents to the Eastern faith believe in peace and the sanctity of life, almost all of the Buddhists behind bars in this country are serving lengthy sentences for serious crimes such as violence and sex offences.
Buddhism 101: 6 Sense Bases- Eye Consciousness
There are a lot of consciousnesses described in Buddhist meditation texts. The first time I started reading about them, my eyes glazed over and I started thinking about lunch. Looking back, I have to wonder which consciousness was on top then probably body consciousness.
The Four Noble Truths of the Revolutionary Path to Freedom
The first teachings the Buddha gave after his enlightenment were the four noble truths. These were first delivered to the same ascetics he had been practicing with in the forest
The Buddhas influence on Indian life RAVINDRA KUMAR Gautama the Buddha and Buddhism have made excellent contributions towards strengthening the Indian Way, which is based on universal acceptance, particularly in making it dynamic and bringing the common man into its fold. Buddhas contribution for taking this way in his time, when it was a narrow path, cannot be underestimated.
The narrative behind the Buddha image Stani Sathyanathan She was standing in the verandah of her house thinking and watching the leafage of trees, natures gift to the beastly human race, gently dancing in the breeze. She was brooding over her married life, that lasted a mere 11 years, her departed husband who had been special and exceptional, and the impermanence of life. The other day she got some money, after-death benefits of her late husband.
Atuwa in Sinhala - For the first time in the Sri Lankan history: S M Wijayaratne Atuwa means the books of noble Buddha Dhamma facts. These books give detailed explanations of the brief sermons preached by the Buddha. The Thripitaka is written in Pali. Atuwa Dhamma books offer the reader with complex teachings of the Buddha that appear in Thripitaka in a very simple and easily comprehensible way.
A review - Challenges for Buddhism ALLEN CARR Some Western drug companies spend millions of dollars developing and marketing a new drug only to have the health authorities later discover that it has dangerous side-effects and then ban it. Needing to recover their investment and unable to sell their drug in the West some of these companies try to market their dangerous products in the Third World where public awareness of health issues is low and indifferent governments can be brought off. Some might say that Christianity is a bit like this.
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Get an overview of this hotelHotel with free breakfast, near Belmont Park
Popular property highlights
Situated in Floral Park, this hotel is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Queens County Farm Museum and 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Belmont Park. Alley Pond Park is 2.6 mi (4.2 km) away.
Hotel Features
Along with coffee/tea in a common area, this hotel has dry cleaning and a 24-hour front desk. Free buffet breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include RV/bus/truck parking.
Room Amenities
All 41 rooms boast deep soaking tubs and offer free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. Other amenities available to guests include coffee makers, free weekday newspapers, and hair dryers.
Guest Highlights
- High-quality beds
- Helpful staff
- Clean guestrooms
- Overall room comfort
- Guestrooms weren't very spacious
Quality Inn Floral Park
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast. Public areas are equipped with complimentary wireless Internet access. This Floral Park hotel also offers coffee/tea in a common area, dry cleaning/laundry services, and RV/bus/truck parking. Onsite self parking is complimentary.
- 24-hour front desk
- Total number of rooms - 41
- Number of floors - 4
- Coffee/tea in common areas
- Free breakfast
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Elevator/lift
- RV, bus, truck parking
- Free self parking
- Free WiFi
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free self parking, RV, bus, truck parking
Room Amenities
- Premium TV channels
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Free weekday newspaper
- Air conditioning
- Microwave (on request)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Daily housekeeping
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Shower/tub combination
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Cable TV service
- Iron/ironing board
- Television
- Desk
- Flat-panel TV
- Free WiFi
Where to Eat
Guests are offered a complimentary buffet breakfast.
Hotel Policies
Check-in time ends at midnight
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is 11 AM
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Kids stay free! Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
- Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
- Cribs (infant beds) are not available.
- Pets not allowed
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
No rollaway/extra beds available
No cribs (infant beds) available
Hotel Name
- Floral Park Quality Inn
- Quality Floral Park
- Quality Inn Floral Park
- Quality Inn Floral Park Hotel Floral Park
We should mention
Children 18 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.


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Chapter 2: Return
MLP:FiM Fan Fiction
By: Scy Storm
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Sorry for the wait, everypony! Writing is a slow process for me, given my full time job and frequent creative blocks. Plus, this is a pretty long chapter. Hope you enjoy.
"So that's the whole story... We're leaving tomorrow."
Twilight Sparkle rubbed her hoof across her chin, staring up at the ceiling of her library in thought. Rainbow Dash stared back at her silently, letting her process the entire story she had just heard. "It's hard to believe that Pinkie Pie of all ponies could get that sad," Twilight finally spoke.
"Yeah, I know... I'm really glad I snapped her out of it. Now we just need to hunt down her family so this doesn't happen again."
"I'm a little confused though, Rainbow. Didn't she once say she lived on a rock farm outside Ponyville?"
Dash chuckled softly and rubbed the back of her head with a hoof. "Well, you know Pinkie Pie. When she said 'outside Ponyville,' she didn't actually mean right outside..."
Twilight couldn't help but laugh a little. "I should have guessed. Where is it?"
"It's just outside Maresburg. I've never been there, but apparently it's a day's away by train."
The librarian nodded, though a curious look remained in her eyes. "So, you think you could be gone a week or two? I'm not sure if the one and only Rainbow Dash can survive being on a rock farm for that long."
Rainbow grinned with fake amusement. "Ha, ha, ha... The reason is her sisters. We think they grew up and moved away, so we need to find out where they are, then take more train rides."
"Are you sure you two can afford that?"
"We pooled our bits, and the Cakes helped out a little. I don't think we need very much, but it's fine."
Twilight nodded in reply, a smile curling across her face. She took a few steps forward and gave her friend an affectionate nuzzle. "It's very sweet of you to do this for her, Rainbow."
Dash felt her cheeks redden, the pegasus curling her face away from her friend's nuzzle, embarrassed. "Y-Yeah, whatever... She said she didn't want to be alone."
"I know you would have gone with her even if she didn't say that."
Rainbow smirked and forced an incredulous chuckle. Of course Twilight would be able to read her like a book. "A-Anyway, I've already told the other girls. I guess everything is set now."
Twilight nodded, still smiling. "I'm sure we'll all be there to see you two off."
Dash nodded in return, about to speak again, before both girls are surprised by a loud voice. "DASHIIIIE~!"
The front door of the library flew open, followed closely by a bouncing pink pony, two overstuffed saddlebags rattling with her movements. "Pinkie? What the hay is it?" Dash asked.
"You're done telling the girls, right? Well come on, silly filly, we gotta get ready to go! See, look, I got all the stuff I need!"
Rainbow looked at the absolutely packed saddlebags, wondering briefly what could possibly be in them. Wait, scratch that, she didn't want to know. How was she even bouncing with that much weight on her back? The pegasus groaned and pressed her hoof to her forehead. "Pinkie, we're not leaving until tomorrow, and I don't think we need all of that stuff..."
"But we're going on an ADVENTURE, Dashie! We need all sorts of stuff for an adventure! Haven't you ever been on an adventure before?" Pinkie ranted, apparently forgetting their various trips in the past.
Dash sighed audibly, taking a passing glance back at Twilight. The librarian was simply smiling and holding back her laughter with one hoof. Rainbow then walked forward, pressing her head against Pinkie as she did, forcibly pushing her out of the library. "Come on, Pinkie, we'll get ready together so I can limit the damage..."
"Oooh! Yay! Together! ... Wait, why would there be any damage?" Pinkie wondered out loud while sliding across the ground from Dash's pushing.
Twilight waited for Dash to clear the door before closing it with her magic, finally letting out a quick giggle and returning to her studies.
"Argh! I'm so bored!"
Rainbow paced back and forth across the floor of the train car, grumbling in annoyance. She was starting to get angry at herself for making Pinkie leave all that stuff back in Ponyville. Maybe there was something interesting among it all. She turned her gaze to the pink pony in question, who was lying on one of the beds and staring out the window of the moving train. She seemed mesmerized. "Oooh~!"
Dash stared at her. How long had she been laying there again? The pegasus couldn't recall. After a few moments of staring, she scooted up next to the earthmare, looking out the window. "What's got you so excited, Pinks?"
Pinkie giggled in reply. "Everything moves so fast! It's neeaaat."
Dash blinked a few times, staring at the moving scenery outside in confusion. Was it really enamoring Pinkie that much? How random could she get? "It's nothing special, Pinkie. You should try flying as fast as I do. Same thing."
"Oh Dashie, you silly filly! I don't have wings!"
The pegasus didn't even want to think up an answer to that comment. It would just hurt her head. She simply sighed and dropped her chin on her front hooves, staring out the window at the zipping scenery. The bed underneath her bounced slightly with the excited movements of her marefriend. Sometimes she really wished she could have just a little, tiny bit of Pinkie's personality. That little part that helped the pink pony find such joy in mundane things. Maybe her days would be a little more fun that way.
Dash raised her head off her hooves when a thought then came to her head. It was a question she had been meaning to ask the earthmare. "Hey, Pinkie? How did you ever manage to survive that rock farm?"
For the first time in quite a while, Pinkie turned her head from the window, looking at the pegasus with her usual everlasting smile plastered on her face. "Survive? I wasn't in any danger, silly! Always have to be careful with rocks! They're not snowballs, you know."
Rainbow groaned and turned her eyes back to the pink mare. "I mean... How did you manage? It sounds so... boring! Plus all that stuff about no talking or laughter, or... fun."
Against all odds, Pinkie's smile faded. She turned her eyes downward, away from Dash's gaze. "Oh. Yeah, that stuff."
Dash felt her heart sink. "D-Don't get upset, Pinkie, I didn't mean to... Ugh! I'm sorry!"
Pinkie shook her head and looked back up at the pegasus, a softer smile appearing on her face. "It's okay, Dashie. I'm not going to go all depressed on you again, really. It was actually kind of easy to manage there, at least before I got my cutie mark."
Rainbow nodded, though she still felt a little unsettled by Pinkie's subdued speech. It was always weird to her to see the Princess of Random suddenly talk with a hint of seriousness. This happened to be a sensitive subject, however. "It didn't sound to me like you enjoyed it even before then, Pinks."
Pinkie sighed softly, leaning her face on a hoof, her eyes turning upward as if she were losing herself in thought. "The no talking and no laughter stuff was a rule when we were working, which was a lot of the time. We... didn't really talk much in the house though, unless it was just me and my sisters in our room. We were always afraid of annoying Mom and Dad too much. It was a lot easier when Granny Pie was still alive."
Dash lowered her ears at the mention of Pinkie's grandmother, mainly due to the knowledge of her no longer being around. She didn't know much about her, other than she taught Pinkie that famous little song of hers. "She was a lot nicer?"
"Nicer? I guess. She wanted to make sure we stayed happy after all the hard work, you know? She also home schooled us. Once she was gone, my mother filled the void, but it just wasn't the same. Mom was nice too, but sometimes she took after Dad, is all..."
Rainbow listened closely, eager to learn, holding back her feelings about Pinkie's demeanor. Home schooled? She didn't know about that detail. She didn't think it was important enough to ask about, though. "Granny Pie sounded great."
Pinkie smiled from her thoughts, offering Dash a gentle nod in response. "She was great. She's the one who taught us how to ice skate when winter came along. Also baking."
"Baking? I thought you learned that from Mr. and Mrs. Cake."
Pinkie shook her head with a grin, her trademark cheer seeming to return, if only for a moment. "Nope! I learned it from Granny and Mom. I even baked the treats for my first party. They just... weren't all that amazing. I definitely got better thanks to the Cakes!"
Dash couldn't help but smile, nodding in understanding. She found herself wishing she had talked to Pinkie more about these things before. It surprised her just how little she knew about her marefriend's past. Perhaps this whole journey was going to change all of that. While thinking of what to say next, however, she saw Pinkie's smile fade, a shiver going down the pink mare's spine. Dash immediately got concerned. Did she say too much? "Pinkie, if you want to stop talking about it, that's okay..."
Pinkie glanced out the window once more. "No, it's just... I'm really nervous, Dashie. I've... actually been trying to get my mind off it by watching the scenery, but I can't. Every bit this train moves, we're closer to my parents..."
The pegasus stared quietly at Pinkie for a moment, before reaching over with a hoof, stroking it through her bouncy mane. Pinkie closed her eyes gently and stopped shivering, her smile slowly returning. Dash's own smile started to return as well. "Just relax, Pinks. Everything will be okay. I promised you that."
The earthmare inhaled deeply, before releasing a pleasant sigh and nodding quietly in response. Dash chuckled under her own breath, slipping her hoof back down and looking out the window. The two were quiet for a few moments as the pegasus noted the sky beginning to show an orange glow. Had that much time really passed? She had always felt time went by slower when she was bored. "Well, maybe we should just turn in early. I bet by the time we wake up, we'll be there," Dash suggested.
Pinkie remained quiet for a moment, before suddenly snapping her eyes open with a loud gasp. "Ooh! Cuddles!"
Dash flinched from the sudden reaction. "Er? What?"
Pinkie turned to the pegasus with a wide grin, bouncing on the bed a little again. "Cuddles, Dashie! How long has it been since we slept all cuddly-wuddly together?"
A silly grin crept across Dash's face. So random... "Uh, a long time, I think, but..." she turned her attention to the bed below them, "... I dunno, these beds are kind of small. I'm not sure it'd work."
"I can solve that!"
Dash yelped in surprise when she was suddenly lifted off the bed by the surprising strength of the pink pony, nearly hitting her head on the bunk just above. The earthmare flopped the confused pegasus onto her back, before belly-flopping right on top of her, knocking the air out of Dash's lungs. Pinkie then squeezed her front hooves at the cyan pony's sides, rubbing her nose into her multicolored mane. Dash squirmed a little to get comfortable under the sudden presence, her face heating up in embarrassment. "Oof... Dang, Pinkie, I think you need to lay off the cupcakes for a while."
A sharp gasp pierced the air of the train car, Pinkie raising her head and staring down at the pegasus with a look of shock. "Rainbow Dash! Did you just call me FAT?!"
Rainbow stared into those wide blue eyes and grinned widely, prodding at Pinkie's midsection with a hoof as if to test her words. "I wouldn't say faaaat... but at least chubby."
Pinkie gasped again, pushing her hooves down onto Dash's chest, pinning her down staring daggers down at her. "You take that back!"
Dash grinned even wider, wiggling and prodding at her again even harder. "Oh yeah? What're you gonna do about it, Piggy Pie?"
A look of absolute horror crossed Pinkie's face, quickly returning back to one of anger. Then, a wide, almost menacing grin went over her face as her hooves pushed down harder. "What am I gonna do?! I'm gonna eat you, too!"
In an instant, Pinkie shoved her face downward, nipping her teeth onto one of Dash's ears and tugging hard. Dash gasped, and began to giggle uncontrollably, otherwise attempting to feign being in pain. "No, noooo! Not that! Anything but that!"
Pinkie growled in an animalistic manner, nibbling the pegasus' ear while she tugged it about. "Grrr, Piggy Pie hungry!" she mumbled out through her teeth.
Dash's face lit up even more, squirming uncontrollably from the 'torture,' unable to stop her giggles. "Mercy, mercy! Have mercy on me!"
"Then you take it baaack!" Pinkie spoke again, before gently chomping on almost the entire ear.
Rainbow practically squeaked, squirming even harder the earthmare's hooves. "Hehehe, I give, I GIVE! I take it back!!"
Pinkie grinned widely, finally letting go of the pegasus' ear as Dash began to pant, her body trying to calm down. She was given little time to recover before Pinkie suddenly pressed their muzzles into a firm kiss, her hooves slipping off of Dash's chest, relieving the pressure she had put there before. Dash's eyes went wide for a brief moment, before she fluttered them closed, submitting to the earthmare's forceful embrace and wiggling her hooves around her pink form. Pinkie's chest rumbled, the pink mare keeping up the kiss for a few moments before abruptly breaking it, slipping her hooves around the cyan pony and nuzzling hard into her neck. "Cuuuuddlllllles..." she mumbled out in a drunkenly happy tone of voice.
Dash panted into the open air, her head leaning back instinctively when her neck was nuzzled. She stared up at the wooden bottom of the bed above her and released a blissful sigh, tightening her hug on the cuddly earthpony. This was much better than pacing around, and it had the side effect of keeping Pinkie in high spirits. Why hadn't she just thought of this before? Priorities next time, Dashie. Should get us both through this easier.
Sand. Sand and rocks. Mostly the sand. That's about all Rainbow Dash could think of as she gazed upon the township of Maresburg. The entire modest settler town appeared to reside on a single main road, houses flanking both sides of it, stretching out a fair bit toward the mountain range in the distance. All of the houses were simple wooden structures of a... classical design, something like that? Where had she seen something like it before? Oh, that's right. "Are you sure we didn't take the train to Appleloosa again?" she asked the pink pony walking next to her.
Pinkie let out a snorting giggle. "Of course not, silly! No pushy yellow stallions pushing us around this time."
"I keep expecting him to pop up any second now..."
It did look remarkably similar. Then again, Pinkie did say this was a settler town. Long before she was born, some settler ponies made a caravan and formed the town to do some mining in the nearby mountain range, hoping to strike it rich. The ones that found enough riches simply moved away to bigger places. The others gathered enough resources to live a comfortable life, and a simple community banded together and continued to modestly thrive, even as the two visitors walked through. "I can't imagine living in a desert like this," Rainbow commented, voicing her inner thoughts.
"Well... Some just don't have a choice, Dashie. We're pretty far away from the bigger towns."
Various ponies walked the road of the modest town, and almost all of them glanced toward the visitors strolling through. Dash figured everypony in the small town must know each other, and outsiders weren't very common. Curiously, some of the stares appeared to be ones of outright shock. Dash felt a little unsettled, but ignored it to try and keep up her conversation. "Didn't you say once that you didn't have magic items when you grew up? Or like, any kind of electricity?"
"Yep! My parents were against it. They would say that real earth ponies didn't need all those fancy things to live an honest life. It saved money too, I guess."
Dash grimaced. "I'm surprised you didn't leave earlier than you did..."
Pinkie frowned, glancing down at the ground. Rainbow caught it, entering a minor state of panic and attempting to apologize before Pinkie's voice halted her. "It wasn't too bad, Dashie. Really. You know those weren't my reasons for... leaving."
The pink pony began to quiver, her walking pace getting slower. Dash leaned over, bumping Pinkie's shoulder with her nose. "Don't fail on me now, kid. We're too close now."
Pinkie took a breath, regaining her composure. She turned her head back to Dash and gave one of her trademark smiles. "Pinkamena Diane Pie, correct?" there came a sudden voice.
Both of the mares gasped audibly and turned in the direction of the voice. On the porch of a nearby house, there sat a brown earthpony stallion with a black mane, reclined in a rocking chair, hindlegs dangling off the front. A golden, five-pointed star adorned the flank that the mares could see. His face was partially obscured by his wide-brimmed cowpony hat until he raised his head to look at the two, calm azure eyes focusing on Pinkie. The girls could see he was fairly aged by the wrinkles on his face. Pinkie suddenly felt a little uncomfortable. "Do I know you?" she asked with a headtilt.
"Likely not. You weren't seen in town much. But, I certainly know you. We only ever had one darling little pink filly who ran away from home."
Pinkie recoiled slightly and looked away. Dash raised an eyeridge as she stared down the older pony. "So are you the Maresburg sheriff or something?" the pegasus asked.
"Retired now, actually. I was still good ol' Sheriff Buck all them years ago when your friend there skedaddled out of town. I did my best to track her down, but, no luck. Never thought I'd see her again, that's for sure."
Pinkie raised her head again, regarding the ex-sheriff with a look of surprise. "You tried to find me?"
"'Course I did. Your parents were rather worried about ya. I felt terrible about never succeedin'."
Pinkie continued to stare in slight shock, her eyes shifting over to the cyan pegasus at her side. Rainbow glanced over at her at nearly the same moment, and slowly smiled a knowing smile. Pinkie seemed to understand, a gentle smile creeping over her face as well. The old pony nearby lowered his head once more, his features once again hidden by the hat he wore. "They're still there," he spoke, ending the spell of silence.
The two mares glanced his direction once more. "What? You mean...?" Pinkie asked.
He nodded a slow nod. "Right where you left them. I'm sure they got a lot to say to you. Don't waste anymore time with me, ya hear?"
The girls didn't need to be told twice. They looked at each other once more, Pinkie's eyes seeming to cycle through various emotions; fear, hope, sadness, and perhaps a little excitement. Dash replied silently with a warm smile. New knowledge had dawned on them, but true confirmation was required. Without another word to the ex-sheriff, the two continued their trek through the rest of the small town, silently pondering what they'd do when the moment happened.
It didn't take long to reach the end of the town. Dash could see the farm sitting in the distance, flanking the nearby hills. One lonely house with one lonely silo, surrounded by a fairly empty field of desert. It was just like Pinkie described it in her stories, aside from the rock amount. For what was apparently a rock farm, there didn't actually seem to be a lot of them. Then again, the concept of a rock farm was completely lost on Dash. She had asked Pinkie about it, but Pinkie never had a straight answer for why her parents made her move rocks around. She would ask again, but it wasn't the time for that.
Dash took passing glances at the pink pony, watching her begin to quiver harder the farther they got from the town, ever closer to her childhood home. Her emotions were gathering. It was as if her body still wanted her to run away, to hide from what was necessary, like she did for so long. Rainbow couldn't remain quiet anymore. "You holding up, Pinks?"
Pinkie stopped walking, surprising the pegasus. She took a deep breath and exhaled, turning to look at the cyan pony with desperate eyes. "I'm still nervous, Dashie. I know I shouldn't be after what the sheriff said, but..."
Rainbow smiled a sweet smile, placing one hoof against Pinkie's leg. "I'm here for you. Okay? I promise it'll be okay. Just like I said before we came here."
Pinkie forced a small smile, and simply nodded. The two resumed walking the remaining distance to the house, Pinkie soon finding herself sitting right in front of the door. She turned and looked over her shoulder one last time at Rainbow, who was waiting several feet away, not wanting to get in the way of what was to come. With much reservation and a shaky hoof, Pinkie clopped a few times upon the door's surface. Then, she waited. A few simple moments felt like agony, the world around the two visitors feeling all too quiet.
A gentle clicking noise broke the silence, the door opening up, and a loud gasp tearing through the air. There stood an elder, pale gray earthpony, a fair degree smaller in size than her visitor. Her turquoise mane was tied into a top bun, and the image of three rocks adorned her flank. Small, golden eyeglasses were draped on the end of her snout, situated in front of bright blue eyes that were as wide as eyes could be. She stared with utter disbelief at the pink pony sitting before her, mouth agape, lower jaw quivering. "P...Pinkamena?" she finally spoke, her voice almost too quiet to understand.
For the first time in so many years, Pinkie laid eyes on her mother. Any desire her body had to run away was gone; it was too late to do so. She stared, her body unable to move aside from a gentle quivering. She tried to force a smile, but it just wouldn't come out. "H-Hi Mom..." she replied, also at a near whisper.
The gray pony took a few steps forward, eyes staring directly into her daughter's own. She shakily raised her forehooves, placing them on Pinkie's shoulders. Immediately, fresh tears slid down her face. She stuttered out another gasp and bit her lower lip, before leaning herself forward, her forelegs wrapping as tight as she could muster around the pink pony, her face buried into her neck. "My... My baby! You're here, y-you're ALIVE!!"
Pinkie officially lost it. She wrapped her own forelegs around her dam, consciously being careful about the elder pony's age. She pressed her nose to her mother's head, tears freely streaming down her face. "Mommyyyy! I'm so sorry, I'm so SORRY!! I love you and I don't hate you and I'm sorry for running away and... and...." she rambled, her voice trailing off into sobs.
Roxy gently rocked her daughter back and forth in their embrace, feeling Pinkie's chest heaving. She tried her best to keep some semblance of composure as her poor daughter released years of pent-up emotion. "My darling Pinkamena... I m-missed you so much..." she spoke, her voice barely audible.
"Oohhh I missed you, I missed you!! I'm such a terrible, horrible pony, please forgive me, Mommy!"
Roxy raised one of her hooves up, stroking it through her daughter's mane. "Shhh... Don't say that, dear, it's okay..."
Pinkie tried to come up with every reason why it wasn't okay, but she couldn't. She was with her mother again, the old mare trying what she could to comfort her, even with her own state of emotion. Then, there came a heavy clopping noise. Pinkie gasped and raised her head, looking inside her childhood home. There, she saw her father, having just come down the stairs at the sound of the commotion. Dash managed to get a look at him. He was large brown earthpony with a gray mane and sideburns, a pickaxe adorning his flank. He stood at the foot of the stairs, his face in shock at what he was seeing. Slowly, he began to walk forward.
Roxy heard him coming, and hesitantly slipped out of the hug with her daughter, moving to the side and out of the way. Clyde stopped only a few feet from Pinkie, the two staring at each other in silence. She was apprehensive and fearful, despite what just happened with her mother. His face remained entirely unreadable aside from his shock, until slowly but surely, his eyes began to water, his lower jaw quivering. That's exactly what Pinkie needed to see. "D-Daddy!!" she screamed, practically leaping forward.
The pink pony latched onto her sire and buried her face into his neck, sobbing all over again. "I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry!! I love you Daddy, I love you and I don't hate you, I didn't mean it, I promise I didn't mean it!!"
Clyde reached up with one hoof, stroking it over her mane slowly and firmly. Pinkie immediately stopped rambling, and saw fit to just cry away the rest of her pent-up emotions into her estranged sire. Clyde said nothing; he simply held her close, eyes watery, a slow smile crossing his muzzle.
Rainbow Dash slid a hoof across her cheeks, smiling tenderly. This is what she had said would happen. It was what she promised. Though really, she had convinced herself as much as she did Pinkie. Everything just might work out after all. "Who might you be, young lady?"
Dash gasped, glancing toward Pinkie's mother, who was adjusting the glasses on her nose. "O-Oh, I'm Rainbow Dash. I'm Pinkie's... friend. I came with her here."
Roxy brandished a tissue to use on her face, looking at the pegasus in confusion. "Whatever for?"
"I convinced her to do this, and... she didn't want to be alone." Rainbow suddenly felt very awkward. She turned to leave and extended her wings. "L-Look, I'll just come back later, okay?"
"Wait! Don't leave, please."
Rainbow halted herself and turned back to the earthpony, who was smiling warmly. "Please stay. If you helped bring my daughter back to me, then the very least I can offer you is my hospitality."
Dash was happy to hear that, since she didn't actually want to leave Pinkie, but the whole situation still felt awkward. She trotted up to the door, eyes on the father and daughter still holding each other inside. "Are... you sure?"
Roxy nodded as she slid the tissue over her cheeks. "Quite sure, my dear. Come inside."
Finally convinced, Rainbow walked into the quaint home, trying to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb the moment. With a happy sigh, Roxy closed the front door.
"Then Rainbow Dash got all fed up and zipped in there and kicked the dragon riiiiight in the face, full speed! He was sooooooo mad!"
Dash nearly spit out her drink. "Jeez, Pinks, did you have to mention that part?"
Pinkie regarded the pegasus with a confused look. "What? You always brag about it to everypony!"
Rainbow looked away. "Well... Y-Yeah. This is kind of weird, though..."
Roxy gently laughed at the display before her. "Well, you two certainly live an exciting life, don't you?"
Pinkie turned to her mother and nodded rapidly with a grin on her face. Dash merely shrugged, and made no verbal comment. Pinkie had spent the last... however long it had been, sharing as many stories as she could in a random order with her listening parents. Dash forgot to take count of how many breaths Pinkie had taken during the entire spiel. It couldn't have been very many, by her estimation. Most of the stories were parties she had held, both before and after she was friends with Dash. Plus, of course, the more exciting stories like defeating Nightmare Moon, the Grand Galloping Gala, and the dragon in the mountain. Dash wasn't even sure if Roxy Pie was believing those particular stories. "We should toooooootally go on more adventures. I mean this is sort of an adventure we're on right now, but the other girls aren't here so it's not a SUPER adventure or anything! We should plan another adventure when we're back in Ponyville, Dashie!" Pinkie rambled.
"Sure, sounds great, Pinks..." Dash said, dismissively.
For what must have been the thousandth time, Dash glanced around the main floor of the home. It couldn't have been more... quaint? That may be what Rarity would say. A few couches, one of which she and Pinkie sat on. Her father sat on a large comforter chair. Some tables and dressers aligned the walls, with various family knickknacks sitting atop of them. Roxy herself stood in the kitchen area, having previously prepared tea that the group had been drinking during Pinkie's non-stop storytelling. It was also indeed true that not a single magical or electric light source existed in the house. Instead, various candle lamps were attached to the walls, a few of them lit to provide some extra light. Dash quietly wondered once more how Pinkie survived her youth. She then mentally chastised herself for the thought. "I wish this place was even close to that exciting, girls. Maresburg can be simply dreadful at times, but it's fine for an old soul like me," Roxy mused.
"You're not thaaaat old, Mom!"
"You flatter me, dear. The point is, I'm not a young filly with a life to live anymore. Not that I ever went around fighting dragons, mind you."
Dash felt herself blushing, and immediately hated it. "H-How long have you been here doing rock farming anyway?" she asked, trying to change the subject.
Roxy turned her eyes to the ceiling in thought, as she was cleaning up her implements on the kitchen counter. "Hmm... I'm afraid I don't have an accurate number for you. Granted, I never did much of the farming here. I did appraise the rocks themselves, as well as any gemstones we recovered. That's my talent, not the physical work part."
Dash rubbed her hoof under her chin. "I... guess that makes sense. ... Hey, you know, what was the rock farming for, anyway? We have a friend who farms apples, but I've never heard of rock farming."
The pink mare nearby gasped a little bit. "You're right, Dashie! Not even me or my sisters knew what the hay we were doing," she noted.
Roxy thought quietly for a moment, before turning her head to look at her husband. "I think your father would be best at explaining that."
The two fillies turned their attention to the stallion sitting in the chair across the room, staring at the wall. It was then that Dash realized Pinkie's father had been eerily silent the entire time they'd been at the home. He never even spoke to Pinkie when she was still crying earlier. Roxy likely knew already, hence her diversion. Clyde turned his glance away from the wall when he realized all the attention was suddenly focused on him. He glanced briefly at both curious girls, before turning his gaze back to the wall. "That's not important. Not anymore," he spoke.
Dash was taken aback a bit by his voice. His tone was deep, yet tender, going against his large and somewhat grizzled appearance. He also sounded... very sorrowful. Pinkie bounced just slightly on the couch next to Dashie, unfazed by the tone of her father's voice. "Aww, come on! Tell us! We're soooo curious!"
"Clyde dear, go ahead." Roxy spoke.
The elder stallion glanced at his wife for a moment, before silently giving in, adjusting his seated position slightly. "We were farming the rocks for gemstones."
Pinkie and Dash looked at each other in confusion, quickly turning their attention back to him. "Huh? Then why were we moving them around the field all the time?" Pinkie asked.
Clyde shifted again. He seemed rather uncomfortable to be speaking on the subject. "I followed my father's belief that regular shifting of the rocks promoted better growth of the gemstones within them. To him, it varied depending on the season and conditions of given days."
Dash tilted her head. "That... sounds weird. Was it magic?"
Pinkie perked up. "Ooh! Is that kinda like how Mom would make you move the furniture to different places? Are there gems growing in the cushions?!" she asked, slipping off the couch and shoving her head underneath one of said cushions.
Roxy only laughed, an embarrassed blush crossing her face. "No, dear, that... was something unrelated."
A deep sigh sounded from her husband, the elder stallion's head hanging. "It wasn't magic. It was foolish and never actually worked. Any gemstones we got from those rocks were created at their own rate, and were probably like that years before we broke up the rocks. I worked my girls so hard for nothing."
A silence came over the room. Dash suddenly felt very uncomfortable. Is that why Clyde had been quiet this whole time? There came a gentle clopping of hooves on the floor, as Pinkie strolled over to her father, standing in front of his chair. Clyde raised his head up, staring at his daughter sadly. Pinkie herself had a look on her face showing a mixture of sadness and concern. "Why have you been so quiet, Daddy?" she asked, tenderly.
Just like Dash, she had noticed how quiet her father had been the entire day. Clyde stared at her for a moment, before leaning back in his chair and looking away. "Just... a lot of thinking."
"About what?"
He closed his eyes. "About how much I don't deserve this."
A slight gasp was heard from the elder mare in the kitchen area. "Clyde dear, don't say such things."
"It's true, Roxanne. I was a terrible father. You were there, you saw everything."
"Don't take all the blame in this. I wasn't the best mother myself, you know."
Clyde opened his eyes to turn his gaze toward his wife. "That was only because of me. I exerted my will even when you wanted me to let off. Instead of understanding what my girls were going through, I remained stubborn and angry, sticking to a hopeless family tradition. I hardly deserved the love of my youngest two daughters, I certainly don't deserve the love of my eldest!"
His eyes widened a bit when he felt a soft nuzzling on his hoof. He looked downward to see Pinkie gently nuzzling it, pulling her face away and looking up at him again once she had his attention. Her eyes shone with sadness. "Why don't you deserve it?" she asked, softly.
The stallion's face quivered slightly at the look on her face. He sighed softly, and looked away from her once more. "I drove you away from me. Never in my life would I have expected one of my daughters to run away from me. One of my own kin would rather risk her life out in the unknown world than spend another minute with me. It... It ruined me, Pinkamena."
She leaned her face against his hoof in a gentle nuzzle again. He flinched slightly, but otherwise ignored it and continued. "We tried to find out where you went, but we and the Maresburg sheriff could only do so much. My entire world came down on me. I felt I would never see you again. Later, I... felt that was best. Your life was terrible here. Now, here you are in front of me, with all your stories about your experiences. Is that why you say you still love me, Pinkamena? Because I freed you?"
Pinkie suddenly hopped her forehooves onto his chair, surprising the stallion with a nuzzle across his nose. He looked at her again. She stared at him with watery eyes, a smile adorning her face despite her demeanor otherwise. "No. I love you because you're my father. You put me in this world and I did a terrible thing by making you feel like this. You deserved to know I was still alive, and that I still loved you. So did Mom."
Clyde stared into her eyes, silent for a time. Eventually, gentle tears fell from his eyes and slid down his cheeks. "I... I love you too, Pinkamena. You've grown into such a beautiful young lady. I... I wish I could have seen it happen."
Pinkie sniffled, leaning her face forward and rubbing cheeks with her sire. "I'm sorry I took this long, Daddy..."
"You've done enough apologizing. You don't need to be sorry. As for me... there's not enough apologies I can give to you for how I was."
"I forgive you, Daddy. I promise! I don't want you to be sad anymore."
Their faces pulled away from each other. "You may forgive me, but it will be a while before I can forgive myself..."
Roxy suddenly spoke up. "Clyde, dearest. You should focus on the brighter side of this whole mess."
Pinkie slipped off of her father's lap, as her mother walked closer to the two of them, smiling warmly. "What's that, Mom?"
"It's true that our separation was a very sad event, but you did go on to live a much happier life because of it. The other thing, however, is you helped your sisters get a better life."
Pinkie blinked a few times, then gasped loudly. "Omigosh, my sisters! I've been so caught up in you guys that I forgot about them!"
Rainbow Dash, who had been quiet during this whole event, decided to speak up finally, if only to relieve her awkwardness of being stuck as a spectator. "I guess they're not here anymore, right?"
Roxy shook her head. "No, they're not. Clyde, why don't you tell them?"
The stallion nodded, straightening his posture. "After Pinkamena ran away, we were crushed. When we couldn't find her, we were crushed even more. I took some time to re-evaluate my whole life and how I had been acting. Once I saw all the errors of my ways, I resolved to make life better for the two daughters I had left. One of the first things we did was let them go to the school in town."
"Ooh, the school? As in, not homeschooling?" Pinkie asked.
Clyde nodded. "I believed the only education you needed was from us, on all the necessary subjects, as well as the rock farming business. I came to realize, however, that rock farming wasn't the life for such beautiful girls as my daughters. We were never able to have a son for me to raise in my image, so I forced the life on the three of you. It was wrong of me. You had instead found your calling in the world, Pinkamena, so I decided to let your sisters go out and discover their own, while getting a real education and making whatever friends they could."
Pinkie sat on the floor in front of him, staring and listening to his story with utmost interest. "Did it work? Did they get their cutie marks and all that?"
"Oh yes they did, eventually. They found their place in this world, and they even continued to help me farm, against my better wishes. I did not overwork them. Eventually, I realized how pointless this rock farming was, and I stopped doing it. Instead, I went out to do some real mining in the mountains. I didn't earn the mark on my flank by pushing rocks around a field."
"I told him he was wasting his time. Those mountains had been stripped bare long ago by Maresburg settlers. Oh how wrong I was," Roxy spoke.
Clyde nodded once. "I stumbled upon a hay of a gemstone cache. Biggest I'd ever seen. I mined them out myself, and sold them on the market to anypony who wanted them. Lots of fancy places came calling. Eventually, I mined all of the good rocks we still had outside, then sold off those gems. I made enough money for us to retire, and to help out this town we live in. Most of all, however, I was able to give my daughters the money they needed to move away and make a life for themselves. That's what happened to your sisters, Pinkamena."
Pinkie seemed a little stunned. "I... I caused all that?"
Her mother gently hugged her from behind. "Yes, dear. I know you feel terrible for leaving all of us, but perhaps... everything turned out better because of it. You and your sisters are living great lives now, and we couldn't be happier for you."
Pinkie smiled gently at the new revelation, though her smile faded a bit as she looked upon her father. "Daddy... Life seems to be a lot better now, for all of us. I'm here now, and I love you... Can you please try to forgive yourself? Pretty please?"
Clyde stared at his eldest daughter. For the first time since they first arrived, Pinkie and Dash saw a gentle smile curl across his face. "I'll do my best, Pinkamena."
The pink mare smiled brightly, slipping forward to hug her sire tenderly. "That's all I ask..."
The stallion gently returned her hug, holding her close for several moments. Roxy and Dash observed the proceedings with bright smiles. Dash herself felt so happy that she got Pinkie this far. The entire day possibly couldn't have gone any better. The two separated from their hug after a few moments, and Roxy spoke up. "I should probably start on dinner, eventually... But first, I still have a lot of treat ingredients hanging around here I haven't used in quite a while. Would you like to show me some of your new baking skills, Pinkamena, while I work?"
Pinkie gasped widely and zipped past her mother into the kitchen, a chef's hat having materialized on her head through unknown means. "Would I EVER!"
Her parents were taken aback by her sudden transformation to Party Pony Pinkie. Dash wasn't in the least bit phased. Roxy finally just laughed, and walked to her daughter's side. "Let's try not to make too much of a mess, okay?"
Dash laughed aloud. "Good luck with that..."
The cyan pegasus shifted under her covers. Energy begin to fill her muscles. She groaned gently, not wanting it, wanting instead to keep sleeping. Finally, she raised her head up, eyes trying to adjust to the darkness around her. She had nothing to relight the candle on the lamp, of course. Her attention naturally turned to the window. The very start of Celestia's sun was beginning to show, the faintest of orange light spilling into the room, which happened to be Pinkie's childhood bedroom. She gently groaned again. What the hay... Why are you getting up this early, body? I'm on work leave...
She sighed, turning her eyes to the pink mare curled up next to her. Although she wasn't very visible, Dash was able to see the serene look on her face as she slept peacefully, and like a rock, as was normal. A warm smile curled across the pegasus' face. She leaned her head down and planted a long kiss on her marefriend's cheek, before slipping out of the covers. She landed to all fours on the floor and stretched, a few of her joints gently cracking and loosening. Well, can't get back to sleep. Might as well make the best of it.
She decided immediately that downstairs was likely too dark. She went to the window instead, manipulating it open, and slipping outside. The morning air was very cool, possibly a little too chilly for most ponies, but not for a pegasus like her. She handled sky high cold temperatures all the time. To her, this was a perfect morning. She gently fluttered down to the ground in front of the Pie family home, keeping her eyes trained on the coming sunrise. Been a while since I watched one of these. I really need to get Pinkie up early one day so we can watch one together.
"You're up early."
Dash nearly leaped out of her coat. She turned around to see Clyde Pie looking at her, seated on a wooden bench near the front door of his home, a sprig of wheat hanging out of his lips. A wide-brimmed black hat also adorned his head, which he was not wearing in the house the previous day. The pegasus smiled awkwardly. "Err... Yeah, heheh. I have to wake up early for my job on some days. Sometimes I just can't avoid it..."
Clyde merely nodded, and then gestured toward the bench. "Good morning, then. Come have a seat. I wouldn't mind the company."
Rainbow Dash hesitated, but ultimately nodded and trotted toward her father-in-law of sorts, hopping up on the bench and sitting down. Both ponies turned their attention toward the rising sun, which was beginning to come over the horizon and enter the sky. "Why are you up this early?" Dash asked.
"Force of habit, much like you. I'm retired now, of course, but old habits die hard."
Dash nodded in response, the two going quiet again for a time, just watching the celestial body slowly rise into the atmosphere. After a few moments, Clyde spoke again. "I don't think I properly thanked you for helping my daughter return here."
The pegasus smiled and rubbed the back of her head with a hoof. "It's... no problem. Really. She asked me to do it."
Clyde nodded, unseen to the mare. "You two seem rather close."
Dash flinched ever so slightly. "Well we've known each other a few years or so now, heheh. She's one of my best friends. I'd do anything for my friends."
The elder stallion turned his gaze slightly to the mare at his side, regarding her in silence. Dash didn't look, but she could tell he was staring. The situation was beginning to get very awkward. "I get the feeling there's more to it than that," Clyde finally spoke.
Yep, definitely very awkward. Dash tried her best not to shake. "W-What do you mean? I don't know what you're insinuating, but I don't like it," Dash stated, unconvincingly.
To her surprise, a chuckle sounded from the stallion. "Relax, Rainbow. I already know."
Dash's eyes went wide, and she slowly turned to look at the stallion, meeting eyes with him. "Y... You know?"
He slowly nodded. "I figured it out."
Rainbow continued to regard him with shock. "You... figured it out? How did you figure it out?"
"Pinkie spoke rather fondly of you several times. I saw how you reacted to all of it, even though you tried your best to hide it. You also have those little nicknames for each other. And... the fact that you shared a bed was a rather large hint as well," Clyde explained, his face curling into a smile at his last observation.
Dash's face went red, and she looked away from the stallion. Pinkie had decided to hide their relationship until later, so it was a surprise the cover was blown so easily, and thoroughly. "You're... uh, good."
A deep, gentle chuckle sounded out of the earthpony. "There's no need to be embarrassed, Rainbow, or scared, for that matter."
The pegasus managed to look over at him again. "So... You're okay with it?"
Clyde's eyes were focused on the sunrise again. He was quiet for a moment, his wheat spring shifting position in his teeth. "I can't say I understand it very much, but I'm long past the point in my life where I'd have reacted poorly to such news. My daughter is a mystery to me now, but I'm learning more about the kind of mare she's become. This is just another part of that."
"That's... really great to hear, Mr. Pie."
Clyde closed his eyes softly. "I said the other day that Pinkamena running from me... It ruined me. However, thinking about it more deeply, I find it's a bit more than that. It ruined me, but that served to make me a better pony."
Dash slowly nodded, her awkwardness starting to lift as a gentle smile began to curl. "She... didn't want to say anything. Yet. I don't know when she intended for it."
The stallion opened his eyes again. "I can keep it to myself for now. She can tell us when she feels she's ready. It warms my heart to know she's happy with somepony, no matter who that pony is."
The pegasus nodded again, although she looked at him with a curious stare. "Well... Why are you telling me all of this then?"
Clyde's gaze turned back to the pegasus. Slowly, a warm, caring smile curled across his face. "I wanted to say... Take care of her, Rainbow Dash. I can tell by your presence here that you're very important to her, perhaps even an emotional pillar for her to lean on. You're important to her, and that makes you important to myself and my family. I couldn't ask for a better kind of pony to take care of my little girl."
Dash stared at him, her eyes threatening to mist up. A determined smile came across her muzzle. "Y-Yes sir. You can count on me."
Clyde nodded silently, the two turning their gazes back to the sunrise once more. They remained in silence for the rest of Celestia's sunrise, the pegasus never letting her smile go away as she bathed in the soothing rays. She became more determined than ever to see Pinkie through the end of this family journey, and perhaps bring the whole family closer together as a whole. Yet deep down, Dash knew she and Pinkie had more to learn about each other, as well. The hard part is over with, Pinkie. I'll be there to take out the rest of those little demons inside you. I promise.
MLP:FiM and all Characters/Locations Copyright © Hasbro & Lauren Faust
Characters/Locations used without permission
~ Scy
My First Party - Chapter 2 by ScyStormWatch
©2011-2017 ScyStorm
Pinkie Pie is haunted by feelings of self-hatred, stemming from the day she left her family to be on her own. Never wanting to see her best friend in a crazed state of distress again, Rainbow Dash resolves to reconnect her with her estranged family and bring an end to the personal demons once and for all.
Chapter 1 - [link]
Chapter 2 - You are here!
Chapter 3 - [link]
Pinkie & Dash make their way to Maresburg, and Pinkie comes face-to-face with her parents once again.
I thought up a lot of ideas revolving around a semi-tragic Pinkie backstory, as well as what her family went on to do in the many years since she's been away from them. So, that's where this story comes in. I added in some PinkieDash shipping for effect as well, although it's not the focal point of the story. They're just such a good pairing! I hope the fanon I create for the family comes across good as well.
Pinkie Pie is haunted by feelings of self-hatred, stemming from the day she left her family to be on her own. Never wanting to see her best friend in a crazed state of distress again, Rainbow Dash resolves to reconnect her with her estranged family and bring an end to the personal demons once and for all.
Chapter 1 - [link]
Chapter 2 - You are here!
Chapter 3 - [link]
Pinkie & Dash make their way to Maresburg, and Pinkie comes face-to-face with her parents once again.
I thought up a lot of ideas revolving around a semi-tragic Pinkie backstory, as well as what her family went on to do in the many years since she's been away from them. So, that's where this story comes in. I added in some PinkieDash shipping for effect as well, although it's not the focal point of the story. They're just such a good pairing! I hope the fanon I create for the family comes across good as well.
and long. I srsly couldn't write more than like 3 sentences of this story. xD
and long. I srsly couldn't write more than like 3 sentences of this story. xD
loved it, and i will w8 patiently for the next chapter ^^
A-Fucking mazing! I loved it!
It was excellent, and I was actually worried about the reunion, and relieved when it all went well.
There's just one small problem that's really bugging me, though. I lack a time machine to jump to the point in the future where the next chapter is posted. But I can wait. Yes...
There's just one small problem that's really bugging me, though. I lack a time machine to jump to the point in the future where the next chapter is posted. But I can wait. Yes...
This is the first fanfic I've read since "The Party Never Ended" that made me cry.
Manly tears of joy, sir.
Can't wait for more.
Manly tears of joy, sir.
Can't wait for more.
sooo ...awesome....
I can't wait for the next chapter.
I love this story!
I love this story!
I had many a dawww feeling reading this story. I can't wait for your update!
"Take care of her." Why does that sound ominous?
It's not meant to be ominous! I just thought it was sweet.
... But yeah, I guess it kind of does. >.o
... But yeah, I guess it kind of does. >.o
This story is SO GOOD!!!
This story is SO GOOD!!!
This is the kind of stuff that I can't get enough of-loving people going through harrowing emotional trials. Adorable, poignant story. Keep on keepin' on.
This is an amazing story I can't wait for more
My heart exploded....Twice. Will definitly keep up on reading this, great work.
How have I not found this story sooner?! This is absolutely adorable, I even teared up a bit at the reunion.
I shall be watching very closely for more on this!
I shall be watching very closely for more on this!
this story is like a box of epic nuggets dipped in awesomesauce
Ah I've been waiting for this! I love it!
Worth. The. Wait.
Also in the first sentence of the last paragraph you say sunset instead of sunrise.
Also in the first sentence of the last paragraph you say sunset instead of sunrise.
Ugggggh son of an ass. I made that mistake once and caught it. Didn't realize it was twice!
I almost deleted this from my messages until I realized I already read the first part. Good thing I reconsidered
Simply beautiful, touching, and heartwarming. Nearly brought a tear to this colt's face.
Maresburg? Hmmm... I wonder where that came from...
Nice job, by the way!
Nice job, by the way!
this was amazing! cant wait till the next chapter comes out!!
I love this story!
Will Pinkie's sisters appear in the story? :3
Will Pinkie's sisters appear in the story? :3
They're the next two chapters. :3
Sorry, I just wanna know more about them.
I hope they'll appear in the show again.
Sorry, I just wanna know more about them.
I hope they'll appear in the show again.
If they do, they're going to be compleeeeetely different from how I'm going to make them... XD
xD You make me curious.
I really hope a lot of the ponies from Season 1 appear more often, with some more text.
Discord needs to bring us Screwball back xD
I really hope a lot of the ponies from Season 1 appear more often, with some more text.
Discord needs to bring us Screwball back xD
Wait isnt it universally accepted that octavia is one of pinkies sisters?
Heh? Idk, I never heard that one before... She looks a LITTLE bit like the oldest sister in the Cutie Mark Chronicles episode, but darker... Hmm. O_O
Not at all. Most people don't go with it, they just call her Inky and do whatever headcanon for her that they want. "Inky = Octavia" is actually fairly rare.
Really? I thought it was a fairly common thing, like "Lyra" and "Bon Bon" being a couple.
Then again, I'm personally fine with canon, since the fans aren't the ones MAKING the show.
Then again, I'm personally fine with canon, since the fans aren't the ones MAKING the show.
Wow, this is incredible. I love it. Everything makes sense, and it's a beautiful storyline so far.
Man, I had forgotten about this story. if you read as many fics as I do, when one doesn't update for quite a while sometimes it just slips the mind you know.
But wow, chapter 2... I'm very impressed. The emotions throughout it are portrayed beautifully. I hope the wait for chapter 3 won't be as long, though even if it will be, I'll gladly wait for it.
But wow, chapter 2... I'm very impressed. The emotions throughout it are portrayed beautifully. I hope the wait for chapter 3 won't be as long, though even if it will be, I'll gladly wait for it.
That's how it is for me, unfortunately, haha. "Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying" has the slowest update schedule of all time, probably because the chapters are huge and the author is a little self-hating. I nearly forget everything that happened in previous chapters. It actually updated recently, so I'm gonna check it out later.
Thanks a lot for your comments, otherwise. <3 I'll try not to take too long on Chapter 3, but no guarantees, lol. Try not to forget me too easily!
Thanks a lot for your comments, otherwise. <3 I'll try not to take too long on Chapter 3, but no guarantees, lol. Try not to forget me too easily!
Nope, it doesn't. I think "Paradise" holds that "honour", at least if you look at fics that have a somewhat decent chance of actually being finished. Euch, so many fics I started that have long since died. Such a shame.
Either way, I keep up with EqD, the FiM group on DA and fimfiction.net, not to mention that I am watching you as well, so whenever you update I'm sure to see it
Either way, I keep up with EqD, the FiM group on DA and fimfiction.net, not to mention that I am watching you as well, so whenever you update I'm sure to see it
*sniff* this is fucking beautiful man
.... i uh mean... RAWR im a man! MONSTER TRUCKS! NASCAR! BEER! Guns and... belt... buckles... a fuck it that was really beautiful man, really, great story
.... i uh mean... RAWR im a man! MONSTER TRUCKS! NASCAR! BEER! Guns and... belt... buckles... a fuck it that was really beautiful man, really, great story
your story is so awesome I luvz it


text: My boyfriend and I had a very good relationship for almost a year with talk of having a future together. But lately he has not been showing me any affection, including sex. He also talks about how unhappy he is with his life, his job, and his friends, though he has assured me he doesn't want to break up. Does it sound like he is suffering from depression or is he simply unhappy with our relationship and doesn't want to tell me?


text:
> I'm interested in editing the downloaded rootfs image and then creating a
> .img file- just like the downloadable one, for the soekris net45xx boxes.
I described how I did exactly this, including scripts, here:
This was a while ago and m0n0wall has changed a lot since then, but I'd
guess the scripts still work. Please let use know if you try them and they
Good luck!
cheers, michael


text:
Will You Heed the Coffee Warning?
Coffee is not an addiction right? If you enjoy coffee, perhaps the need for it every day is simply related to an intense love and appreciation. Justify justify.
Researchers have come up with a new "NOW WHAT" for us regarding coffee and why we shouldn't drink it.