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A recent editorial regarding diabetes education discussed the difficulty of doing quality research in this area (1). Behavioral research is inherently difficult (behavioral researchers like to call it "hard science" as opposed to the "easy science" of other fields). However, I will not discuss methods per se, focusing instead on the role of theory. Below I address the ways that theory can inform research, and I offer some thoughts about the role of extra-scientific considerations in research. What I say is particularly addressed to behavioral researchers, but much of it is relevant to other researchers as well.
Theory testing.
The role of theory in behavioral diabetes research is poorly understood. Many see theory as a grandiose conceptual scheme with little relevance to research. But it has been noted that there is nothing so practical as a good theory. The problem is with how theory is used. For example, consider the use of theory in recent research on behavioral interventions in diabetes. A recent study tested a behavioral intervention based on the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), currently a popular theory, against standard care (i.e., standard care against standard care plus a behavioral intervention) (2). To the surprise of no one familiar with behavioral interventions, adding the behavioral intervention produced better outcomes. But did this "prove" TTM, or did it simply demonstrate that behavioral interventions work? And when Anderson et al. (3) found benefit from a behavioral intervention based on empowerment concepts, did this "prove" a theory, or only that another behavioral intervention worked? Clearly these are not tests of a theory; they merely demonstrate that, behaviorally speaking, something is better than nothing. This research approach "assumes" the theory by building it into the intervention. Similarly, I have seen several unpublished studies that have proposed elaborate formulations of "stages of change" that were reducible empirically to whether someone was performing a behavior or not. The concept of "stages" added nothing to explanatory power, yet the results were reported as confirmation of a stage-based theory.
How might one really test such theories? Theory can be definitively tested only by identifying the principle underlying the theory and conducting an experiment (i.e., a clinical trial) that manipulates that principle. Aside from its humanitarian principles (i.e., people have the right to choose what sorts of medical/behavioral interventions they will receive), the empowerment approach suggests that people will be more likely to benefit from interventions that they want. That is, people will be more likely to change behaviors that they want to change than ones that they do not want to change, so behavioral interventions should focus on the former behaviors. Proponents of this approach might suggest that it be tested by randomizing people to receive either interventions for what they want to change or interventions that have been selected according to the priorities of health care providers.
But behaviorally oriented readers may be thinking, "Wait, that is often the point of studies that purport to test TTM" (simply replace "want to change" above with "ready to change"). Such studies regularly find that people who are ready to change a behavior show more change than those not ready to change (or that people who start at a later stage are more likely to be at a later stage at a subsequent point in time than those who started at an earlier stage). And there is the rub. The principle being tested is not unique to either empowerment or TTM; it has long been a principle of behavioral theory (4) and psychological interventions (5). What, then, is unique about the empowerment view in terms of change in health behavior? One could say (and I hasten to state that I am not speaking for advocates of the empowerment approach here) that the question is whether more change in a patient-chosen domain that is defined as less important by a health care professional (the empowerment perspective) is more beneficial for physical (or mental) health than less change in a domain defined as more important by the health care professional (the traditional perspective). In other words, is there a trade-off in terms of the amount of change relative to the importance of change, and, if so, which factor weighs more heavily? One could also test for order effects: Is it better to work with the patients' goals first and then move to the health care professionals' goals (an approach informed by the empowerment perspective), or vice versa (the traditional approach)? Presumably, the former approach would have the benefit of establishing trust in the patient-provider relationship and might lead to change even when the patients did not want it for themselves—a use of referent power—whereas the latter approach, which does not rely on relationship development, would be based on expert power (6).
If the above could be considered a test of empowerment predictions, readers may ask, what would be a test of TTM, since readiness to change has already been accounted for? One principle that undergirds TTM is that it is more effective and/or efficient to provide stage-specific interventions than comprehensive interventions. That is, rather than giving an intervention that includes elements appropriate for all stages, one identifies the current stage, provides an intervention customized to that stage, then observes whether the recipient has moved to the next stage and applies the intervention specific to that stage, repeating the cycle until the recipient has reached the final or target stage. Clearly, the staged intervention model is more labor-intensive in terms of assessment, but is this greater cost offset by reductions in unnecessary/useless treatment (improved efficiency) and/or by improvements in treatment outcomes (increased effectiveness)? Answering these questions requires a sophisticated research design, not simply a comparison of staged and unstaged interventions; a more technical description of the required methodology is presented elsewhere (7,8). And, we should note, the answer to the question will likely depend on the nature of the problem to be addressed and the type of intervention to be used.
Theory testing requires a shift in orientation from a focus on intervention techniques per se to a focus on theoretical principles. From a theory testing perspective, intervention techniques are simply ways to manipulate a hypothesized causal factor, e.g., changing beliefs will change behavior, so we must employ a technique for changing beliefs to test whether this produces behavior change. Although several different techniques might be used to change behavior, they may all involve the identical theoretical principle linking beliefs and behavior. An intervention is a technique like other research techniques (experimental designs, measurement tools, etc.), and differences in techniques do not in themselves operationalize different theoretical principles. Thus, we must avoid intervention techniques that use everything but the proverbial kitchen sink in favor of carefully chosen variations on a very limited number of principles, preferably in a factorial design representing all possible combinations of the relevant variations.
Causal modeling and statistical analysis.
Using theory is not necessarily limited to formal theory testing. Theory also can consist of using study-specific conceptual models to inform and guide the analysis. For example, when a behavioral intervention produces an effect, we should try to determine why (9). The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) demonstrated that intensive treatment (a behavioral strategy) was associated with reduced complications (10). But the real hypothesis was that improved glycemia was the mechanism by which this effect was produced, so the researchers did an analysis to determine whether improved glycemic control (an effect of intensive treatment) was associated with reduced risk for complications.
Although randomized controlled trials (RCT) are the gold standard for testing causal hypotheses, it is also possible to perform preliminary tests without RCT. For example, if we want to know how a behavioral intervention produces changes in glycemic control, we can conduct analyses to identify mediators of the observed outcomes, using the following question: Are improvements in glycemia a result of healthier eating, more exercise, or better medication self-management? Results of analyses of this outcome as well as other health outcomes have been published (11,12), and the statistical techniques for answering this type of question have been discussed elsewhere (13). Other related questions include: Are improvements in factors such as self-efficacy, knowledge, intentions, social support, and psychological functioning important mechanisms for producing behavioral change? At present, we know that most interventions work, but we do not know the keys to designing interventions that work, and we will not know these keys until we identify the critical mechanisms.
In general, researchers should formulate hypotheses regarding the linkages between cause and effect (e.g., intervention and outcome). When the relationship between two factors is hypothesized to be the result of a causal chain, researchers should measure the factors that represent these linkages, and they should conduct analyses to determine which are involved. It is not enough to say that the results might have been due to this or that factor; it is the researcher's responsibility to determine how the data provide answers to the question of what linkages produced this relationship. Although the analytical techniques are more sophisticated than simple prepost group comparisons, they are well within the range of standard statistical applications.
Assumptions about what constitutes "good" theory, measurement, or practice share much in common. A theory, measure, or technique becomes popular, and its adoption is driven by social processes that have little to do with the accumulation of scientific knowledge (14); a theory sounds good, a method seems impressive, a practice feels right. But we need to celebrate our own Columbus and Galileo, people who challenge our scientific beliefs. For example, I personally believe that we should provide culturally appropriate/competent/sensitive interventions, but do they actually produce better outcomes, i.e., answer a scientific question? We should not be afraid to ask the scientific question because we may prefer such interventions on humanitarian grounds (e.g., respect for human dignity), despite what science says. So, I would advocate testing a standard approach against one that is identical in intensity and topics and varies only by the cultural content, rather than stacking the deck against the standard approach by adding coverage and intensity to the culturally modified program, which biases the results in its favor. None of us should feel pressured to stretch our interpretations to justify humanitarian action, nor should we feel that we cannot question the scientific merit of a humanitarian proposal without becoming a professional outcast. More generally, as behavioral scientists we should recognize that, like all human beings, we want to find support for our cherished beliefs so they can be accepted and we can be praised/admired. We must be willing to question our own favorite theories, methods, and practices (including those in which we have a personal stake as an originator/developer) if we are to do the best science possible. In other words, we should take seriously the idea of trying to prove our own theories wrong, and only accept a theory when we cannot disprove it.
Like the earlier Diabetes Care editorial cited above, I believe that much has not been done. It should be clear, however, that I believe it can and should be done. These are some of the most important challenges facing behavioral diabetes researchers. We need to rise to the occasion if we are to maximize our contributions to scientific knowledge in this field and our impact on the health and well-being of people with diabetes and their significant others.
Address correspondence to Mark F. Peyrot, Loyola College, Beatty Hall, Room 311, 4501 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21210. E-mail: mpeyrot{at}loyola.edu.


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Variety of cryptocurrency infographic it is possible to download totally free. Please download these cryptocurrency infographic by using the download button, or right visit selected image, then use Save Image menu.
cryptocurrency infographic
cryptocurrency infographic detail:
- Name: cryptocurrency infographic – Virtual Currencies The Future of Payments Currency Bitcoins Finance Advanced Mining Technologies Inc AMT Miners
- Source: pinterest.com
- Size & dimension: 3.08 MB, 975 x 2627 pixel
cryptocurrency infographic detail:
- Name: cryptocurrency infographic – Ripple vs The World infographic paring key numbers of Ripple XRP against panies like VISA Paypal Bitcoin Ethereum and more
- Source: pinterest.com
- Size & dimension: 1.09 MB, 2550 x 4000 pixel
An infographic (information graphic) is a representation of details in a visuals format made to make the data quickly easy to understand at a glimpse. People make use of infographics to swiftly interact a message, to streamline the presentation of big amounts of data, to see information patterns and connections, and to check modifications in variables with time.
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subset: commoncrawl


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The Tron [TRX] token has escaped the clutches of the bear market and has been in a state of volatility ever since. The one-day chart shows the price starting at $0.02342, with a market cap of $1.53 billion. Tron's seven-day price has seen a colossal increase of 9.15%.
The price, however, didn't stop at $0.02342, as it took a steep downturn and reached $0.2319 with almost the same market cap. The token had another slump, causing the price to plummet to $0.0230, which was the lowest in the one-day time frame.
The market cap followed the price, and saw a decrease of $22 million. The trend continued, but with a steady increase, which lead the price to climb to $0.02399.
The price rallied to higher highs and lower lows within a time span of 35 mins [approx], when the price fell down twice i.e., $0.02337 and $0.02317 and rose successively to $0.02396 and $0.02387. The market cap reached $1.57 billion during this span of volatility. The token is currently trading at $0.02396 and has a market cap of $1.57 billion.
In the seven-day chart price, TRX started at $0.02265 and with a market cap of $1.46 billion. This was followed by a volatility dry spell until the prices slumped to $0.02172, causing the market cap to follow the same trend, which resulted in a decrease of $34 million.
Shortly after the slump, the prices ascended to a $0.02347 and market cap increased to $1.54 billion. This was followed by a steady increase in prices up to $0.02396 and a market cap of $1.57 billion.
The rise in prices is speculated to be due to the daily transactions of Tron exceeding that of poster child cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin [BTC] and Ethereum [ETH].
The Tron weekly report was released yesterday by Justin Sun on Twitter, which included the rewards for a community of hackers, who received a sum of $3,000 for vulnerability reports. The reports also included the completion of tests for memory database optimization and transaction property along with optimization of TVM cache.
The transaction receipt tree design and partial development for the TRX token remains a work in progress.
Apart from the weekly report, Tron's founder and CEO, Justin Sun, tweeted recently about the listing of Tron [TRX] on Turkey's fastest growing cryptocurrency trading platform, Koineks. Tron was also listed on Bestex, a global digital asset spot trading service.
The post Tron [TRX] escapes sideways monotony as massive volatility enters the market appeared first on AMBCrypto.


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Wardell Armstrong has been providing expert archaeological and heritage services for over 25 years.
During this time we have demonstrated our ability to provide effective and commercially aware advice to a wide range of clients throughout the UK.
As one of the first consultancies to provide independent archaeological and heritage advice, we have been at the forefront of assisting clients in managing change to the historic environment and all of our advice is built upon a profound understanding of the central role which the historic environment now occupies within the planning system.
We have built a reputation based on our ability to deliver our client's requirements on diverse projects by understanding their specific needs and applying our considerable experience in delivering the right solution.
Our Heritage consultancy team offers a wide range of services to assist in the successful submission and determination of planning applications including the constraints reports, impact assessments, heritage statements, archaeological desk-based assessments, design of works, tall building assessments, listed building and scheduled monument consent applications, historic building conservation advice and expert witness services.
Our archaeological field team offer a total suite of fieldwork services from initial non-invasive surveys such as field walking, geophysical survey, ground modelling, LIDAR and topographic surveys and historic building analysis and recording to archaeological invasive investigations including augering, archaeological trial trenching, archaeological excavations, watching briefs and monitoring.
Our field team is supported by our in-house specialist environmental team, within our purpose built post excavation facility, who provide finds analysis, palaeoenvironmental processing and analysis, post-excavation analysis, publication and outreach. Our environmental team provide independent specialist support to archaeological contractors and government agencies.


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Pencil Problems
Conversations on getting started, and finishing.
We found 4 episodes of Pencil Problems with the tag "e-commerce".
Episode 40: Screen time, Project Update, and Ramblings of a Dystopian Future
November 4th, 2018 | 1 hr 23 mins
books, e-commerce, ketones, nootropics, selling, side-projects, writing
As part of a long overdue project update, we talk about: Screen time in our household, procrastination, and holding too much inventory.
Episode 37: Starting an e-commerce store. Deep dive + Tips & Tricks.
August 21st, 2018 | 1 hr 44 mins
dropshipping, e-commerce, facebook ads, google ads, marketing, revenue, shopify, side hustle
Kent got into the Mission this week, and Nick has some questions. Most of the episode centers around the article Kent wrote about how to start an e-commerce store that doesn't dropship. It goes into the weeds around starting a business, finding and pricing products, Google vs. Facebook marketing and more. Nick also confronts Kent on the question of whether this was all an elaborate piece of content marketing
Episode 32: The Dip
June 6th, 2018 | 1 hr 30 mins
books, e-commerce, hustle, podcasts, projects, side-projects, startup
We hit a dip in our projects! Kent's e-commerce store, Nick's book project, even the podcast. It's starting to feel like work and not like fun. We talk through it all and we hope you can relate!
Episode 14: A time for selling
January 4th, 2018 | 1 hr 57 mins
2018, alt coins, crypto, e-commerce, goals, growth hacking, las vegas, zig ziglar
Nick and Kent talk about the future of pencil problems, their goals for the podcast in 2018, whether or not Nick should dabble in the black hat world of e-commerce, personal goals, las vegas buffets, zig ziglar, kent's crypto corner and so much more. This episode is a MUST download.


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Sandy Recovery Efforts Need Improvement
Imbalanced Distribution of Funding
In a report released January 15, 2014, civil rights, housing and community advocates reviewed the challenges facing Sandy affected residents and neighborhoods, and recommended a series of comprehensive changes to New Jersey's recovery programs to address racial and economic imbalances in funding allocations.
Fair Share Housing Center (FSHC), the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (the Network), the Latino Action Network (LAN), and the NAACP New Jersey State Conference analyzed the performance of New Jersey's Sandy recovery programs to date and made numerous suggestions to increase transparency, fairness and efficiency throughout the rebuilding effort.
The recommendations are aimed at making the State's Sandy aid process work better in advance of the next $1.4 billion in federal funds, which the State is expected to submit a draft plan for later this month.
"We need to make sure that the next $1.4 billion in federal funds are distributed more fairly and transparently," said Adam Gordon, Fair Share Housing Center staff attorney. "The recommendations today will help make sure that everyone impacted by Sandy has a fair opportunity to get recovery funds."
The data in The State of Sandy Recovery was obtained from the Christie Administration through litigation after an Open Public Records Act request by FSHC and from other public sources. Based on the data and firsthand accounts from displaced renters, homeowners, and community groups, the report suggests three specific areas of improvement aimed at fair access to funding and a more transparent and efficient process.
"We are disturbed by African-Americans being rejected at two and a half times the rate that whites are for Sandy rebuilding," said Richard Smith, President of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference. "The next round of federal recovery funds must include all communities impacted by the storm equally."
"Latinos impacted by Sandy must be fully and fairly included in New Jersey's recovery going forward," said Frank Argote-Freyre, President of the Latino Action Network. "That means providing adequate funding for renters who were disproportionately Latino, ensuring people who were misled by the incorrect Spanish website or inadequate outreach in Latino communities receive funding, and making the process fully transparent."
"New Jersey residents affected by the storm deserve a fair rebuilding process that treats people and communities with respect and dignity," said Staci Berger, president and CEO of the Network. "Elected officials at every level of government who share our goal of rebuilding neighborhoods and getting people back into their homes should read this report and take corrective action to improve the transparency and fairness of the process. These recommendations can move all of New Jersey forward and rebuild the lives of those affected and restore thriving communities around the state."
Click here to view The State of Sandy Recovery.


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Welding Helmets & Welding Protection
MFG Part #: 10121266 Brand Name: MSA Mine Saftey Appliances UPC: 64181703298 Online Part #: 409898
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As the process of welding involves taking necessary precautions through the use of safety products, we have a selection for you to choose from here at Viking Electric. This selection includes dependable welding helmets and other welding protection gear. Allow us to support you when you are searching around for these electrical safety supplies.


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Legally bound: a labor saver sticks new owners with old staff
Matt DiGeronimo is the Senior Managing Director of Smith Floyd Mergers & Acquisitions. He also hosts the firm's weekly radio show on KGU AM. HB634, the bill to compel a new owner to keep existing employees in businesses with over 100 staffers, is in conference today.
Culture clashing women report conflict
Kim Barker is speaking tonight at U-H Manoa on "From Montana to Afghanistan: Covering Conflict and the Clash of Cultures," this evening at 6 P.M.
Hard questions about saving other lives as one life ends
Felicia Wells-Williams is a registered nurse and the Family Services director of Legacy of Life Hawaii. She and the program's social workers and chaplain help family members of potential organ and tissue donors make informed decisions about donation.
Prat-falling into Hollywood Arms
Julianna Scharnhorst plays Carol Burnett in the Maui OnStage production of "Hollywood Arms." The show runs weekends through May 5, at the Historic Iao Theater.
Al Jazeera has today's world report, we've got a penguin in the backyard and bills and budgets in the reality check. First, the news from NPR.


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Interdisciplinary: Subject areas are never mentioned. Instead, there is a problem to solve and whatever is needed to be done to solve it will be done, regardless of discipline area. Academics and industry professionals are engaged to provide expert mentorship and a professional attitude.
Outcome driven: The goal is to achieve tangible outcomes that benefit the Club, its members and the community (e.g. journal publications, community action, news articles, outreach, etc). i.e. It's all about the project!
Collaborative: In 2 senses; firstly, learning comes from expert academics and professionals (so we learn properly). Secondly, members work together as a club (like a sporting team), mixing student year levels, staff, schools, academics and industry experts.
Learning benefits
Extension activity: The Bradbury Club suits students of many abilities, but is especially useful as an extension activity for students of middle-to-higher abilities. Students 'learn by doing', giving them experience and practice at STEM-related skills and attributes that are highly valued in the workplace (e.g. problem-solving skills, data analysis skills, resourcefulness and communication skills).
Numeracy Skills: Advanced numeracy skills are developed, since most projects involve complex data analysis, interpretation and presentation. Statistical analyses are routinely performed using statistical and spreadsheet software, with guidance from staff and industry experts/partners. These skills are highly valued in many modern workplaces.
Complements 'traditional' subjects: Runs alongside 'traditional' school subjects, providing students an opportunity to apply knowledge gained in these subjects to a real-world context.
Achievements: Provides tangible outcomes that students can add to their C.V., hopefully giving them a competitive advantage.


text: With Thanksgiving upon us, holiday treats start appearing in break rooms and the halls get decked. Corporate parties are part of the festivities, too. They can be a time to shine – literally, with a touch of glitz and sparkle – or they can sink careers. The office holiday party is still a business event. … Read More


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Shall we be ruled by ruthless communism? Must we remain indifferent? Are we to be forced to believe and practice this or that particular religion? Must we yield to fear and threats that arise around us? Or should we live Independently as best we can?
What we can do, at least, is to learn how to think freely, so as to better appreciate the blessings of freedom.
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This Course of Study is an advanced research on the Divine Science which reached its greatest splendor in the Pharaohnic Courts of ancient Egypt. This portentous wisdom-magic-holiness of the Spiritual Realm is now eclipsed by a dark age, but not vanquished, and not in the least outranked, as it remains the heritage of Initiates who live in retirement. According to the prophetic revelations of the Pyramids the age of "spiritual void and of hardness of heart and savage bloodshed 'will disappear and the Spiritual Light shall again shine for the rescue of humanity. Amply illustrated record of the spiritual magnificence of Esoteric Initiations, which amplifies the spiritual horizon and develops extraordinary mental perception, and restore us to the eternal cosmic truths of Divine essence.
Very precise treatise on the mechanism and utilization of the inner powers of man. Cosmic realization and mental replenishment. Man as a part integrant of the universe. Relationship between men, and between God and Man. The scientific technique of control and use of mental power. The real nature of biopsychosomatics and hypostasy. How "miracles" are made. Spiritual Healing as a scientific religious accomplishment. Wherein lies the difference between Mind and Matter, according to the age old Science of Will Power. How Mind energy and concept become creative. When conscience is the mainspring of life. Consciousness as a way of life. Idealism as a source of values and noblesse. Self rehabilitation or self-regeneration. Self-delusion or self-destruction. Concentration and diffusion. Transmutation. Transfiguration. Biogenetic mutation by spiritual action.
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THE MAGIC OF GIVING, or Science of Tithing
It is perhaps rather ironical to speak of a science of tithing, yet due to some mysterious portents wonders can be a scientifically accomplished through the art of giving. Many people are too selfish to understand this, and are too mental blind to realize it. Still, since time immemorial the great sages have taught that "it is far better to give than to receive", and that "there is no Divine Blessings except in gifts made without spirit of return". Some great philosopher have said that they are richer when they have no possession whatever, while others would prefer to have as much as possible so as to accomplish more with the "loaned Divine beauties". All the truth about this can be ascertained, indeed, by actual practice. Only those who dare to try may know the magic of this mysterious science.
Fee people actually know that there is a Science of Cosmic Realization, or of intelligent relationship between natural principles and forces throughout the eternal universe. No, this is not a sort of faith, as faiths come and go, rise and fall. Since 1922 when this Course of Study was first developed in the for of Public Lectures in Paris, we developed also the branch sciences of COSMOVITALITY, COSMOTHERAPY AND COSMOSOPHY, destined precisely to promote the regeneration of man, a nobler way of life, and a stable civilization. Cosmocracy situates man as an intelligent being amid the wonderful intelligence of universal life, and gives us a wider purview and more reassuring sense of existence.
This is perhaps the most needed as well as the most expected of all our practical Course of Study, as it stands for all the forgotten items in a world wrought with ignorance, superstition and fetishism, and torn by passions inspired by ruthless materialism, sectarian religion, and perplexing spiritual issues.
Tremendous amounts of money are spent unceasingly for material power, church endeavors, vice, military preparedness, interplanetary travels, monstrous politics, and for the exploitation of man by man, yet so little for the precise knowledge of the vital springs and mechanism of human personality, or for the dignity of people. We offer here the secrets of life in all the natural, eternal splendor, which those who vie for world hegemony seem to prefer altogether. KNOW THYSELF. Why not? In fact, how can anyone know much about anything at all without knowing oneself?
A method of Integral Education that keeps the mind healthy and facilitates an existence of genuine creative consciousness and mental alertness, from early childhood to advanced age, avoiding the dangers of psychopathology, mental disintegration, outbursts of passions, wrong and evil penchants, deterrent thinking and delusions, etc., etc.
Genuine "education" is definitely not the age-old indoctrination system and the current brainwashing and regimentation methods of questionable domestication. Religions fail and nations labour with little humanistic results, while vice, war, social injustice, economic ruthlessness, and political complexities which make for world chaos amply demonstrate that civilization is by no means culture, and that education lives much room for improvement. The real rehabilitation is still to be accomplished. We wonder if man´s self-education for self-rehabilitation is, consequently in line now, as mankind must seek liberation from the grip of instinct and the common fetters of materialism and superstition.
This is another Course of Study, which should be obligatory in all High Schools and Colleges, as it reveals the real potentialities of man and teaches at once self-mastery and the fashioning of our own personal destiny. As with our other Courses of Study, there is nothing "metaphysical and mystical" about our educational purports and projections, and we start from the basic principle that each and all individuals are endowed with the necessary faculties and potentialities to accomplish the better destiny which man is capable of yearning for. In fact, man is as great as the ideals and the mysteries he caters to, loves, serves, glorifies, and lives for.
THE UNIVERSAL SPIRITUAL MINISTRY OF MELCHITSEDEQ, or Spiritual Self-Realization and Divine Service of Life:
In ancient times the Truth was the exclusive privilege of real Initiates, but it was held within reach of all earnest students. As of yore today, the genuine Spiritual Ministry is the privilege of all the select souls who live in and for spiritual excellence. Truth is eternal as well as universal, and there is no possible departure from this absolute principle of life, as it is not subject to the accidents of time-space, or to the incidents of human passions and delusions.
The sages of yester ages were poor theorizers, but most sagaciously practical in their designs and endeavors. The title of this Course of Study is necessarily modernized so as to make it more understandable. Its science is, however, as old as the world, and there is nothing that modern knowledge could add to it advantageously, because it is based on sound principles and unquestionable experiences, or conquests over human pain and illness, including the control of pre-natal pregnancy conditions, neuroendocrine dysfunctions, defeat of old age, and the psychosomatic conflicts. Kundalini or the Tree of Life, and the Chakras or Biodynamic Centers remain the source of human health and Psychosomatics, and this knowledge is yet to be incorporated to "modern science". This is unquestionably one of the greatest gifts the modern medical profession could cater to.
Among the numerous Natural Sciences, which are most carefully developed under the aegis of the World University of religions and Spiritual Science, none is perhaps so enticing and commendable as that of Human Body Modeling. Exactly for what purpose and how is the human body developed, and for is it as it is, or how could we make it better if possible. This is what people are supposed to learn to advantage, so as to enjoy complete health, beauty, vigor and happiness. Fundamentally, this is what ancient Yoga aimed at. Today we wonder why mankind should remain the easy prey of common ignorance and superstition, and prefer fetishism and silly conformism. People are, indeed, the masters of themselves and the shapers of their own destiny, no matter whichever may be their preferred religious indoctrination or political partisanship. What is of prime importance now is whether people will continue to be victims of Fate and Fear, or sagacious makers of their own better personality and "way of life" to enjoy and in supreme excellence.
Most people live merely because nature is wise and corrects people constant errors. If people knew that good health and their behavior in general depend largely on what they eat they would be wonder struck. – In reality we eat more through the pores of the skin and by way of our mental attitude than with our mouth. What is more, there is such a thing as the Science of Self Feeding. Dietology on a universal scale is something little thought of generally, yet it is one of the basic conditions of true life.
Genuine Masonry is neither symbolical nor lyrical, or sectarian. It is, above all rehabilitating and functional. Its Mysteries are the eternal Spiritual Truth of the Esoteric Sanctuaries, but they are delivered on a basis of progressive purposes and merits. There are at least 2.000 different "Masonic rites" extent today, but only a few are really well developed, and more or less known, while the others remain either unessayed or purely Esoteric. – There is a profound need, nevertheless, to develop more interest in the fundamentals of true Masonry, as only by going to the source of the great human endeavors can we understand the real meaning and portent of the different civilizations and cultures of this world. Besides, nobody should be afraid of Truth.
Ample treatise on the value of Colors according to their influence on man. The Medical profession has nothing to lose in learning about this science of color, and more "miracles" are accomplished today by colors than by medicine. - When colors govern our life we learn more about the sense of our own experiences. We are profoundly "affected" and even ruled by colors. Pain is also dissolved by certain colors, while our whole mental processes likewise yield to them.
The Elixir of Life is the "magic secret" of ancient alchemy; and there is nothing to lose in knowing about it, or in taking advantage of these discoveries around the fundamental mysteries of human life. Courses of Study may appear innocuous and insignificant, but they carry high-powered implications, which constitute turning points in man's existence, particularly when people have little effective leases of life.
Where does the Human body begins and ends, or how does the human personality links with the Universe? In fact, when and why is man a psycho-radio-active, irradiating and supra-electronics entity? - For there are states of consciousness and parapsychological forces as well as really spiritual conditions – as yet either unexplained or unaccounted for by modern science, which challenge human intelligence yet make life so much more significant and marvelous. – Drowsing, telekinesis, so called "spirit" manifestations, extrasensory perception, clairvoyance, penetrating vision which permits to discover metals, oil and lost objects, etc. etc. just so many little observed human faculties which reveal that man is both a dynamo and a radionics.
Free of charge
for all the registered Students of the
EDUCATIONAL SECTION (World University of Religions and Spiritual Science)
of the Universal Religious Alliance.
Practical knowledge for a modern world, for leadership, self-respect, world progress and the genuine Brotherhood – Co-operative—Commonwealth of Man.
Besides the Courses of Study on the different Religions, Universal Ministry, New Age Economy, Royal Masonry, Advanced Spiritualism, and the Holy Realm of MelchiTsedeq, we have those of particular significance, which we highly recommend to everybody. - Those are, namely: HUMAN ENGINEERING, BIOSOPHY, YOGA, RADIOMIND, HISTORY OF TEMPLAR KNIGHTHOOD AND NOBLESSE, COSMOCRACY…..
We also have others on scientific specialties, such as RADIESTESIA, CHROMOTHERAPY, SPIRITUAL HEALING, SCIENCE OF PRAYER, HUMAN BODY MODELING, MIND SCIENCE, PRYCHOMETRY, METAPHYSICAL AND OVERSELF SCIENCE, RADIONICS, RYRHMOLOGY, INTEGRAL EDUCATION, ROYAL THERAPY (ELIXIR OF LIFE), PSYCHO-SOLUTION, THEOLOGOSOPHY OF ALL FAITH, UNIVERSAL SACRED SYMBOLOGY, THE CONQUEST OF YOUTH, HEALTH AND VIGOUR, DANCE FOR HEALTH AND BEAUTY, MARTINIST MASONRY INITIATION, COSMOTHERAPY OR DIETOLOGY OF THE SAGES, CHRISTOSOPHY FOR THE MILLIONS, PHOTOGRAPHY AS ART AND PROFESSION, THE GREAT AGELESS SCIENCE OF SPIRITUAL ATTAINMENT OF THE AGHARTHA, THE DIVINE COMMUNION OF THE SUFI MYSTICS, THE SPIRITUAL INITIATION OF THE HUIGHURS AND MU, THE HIGHER MATHEMATICS OF PHILOSOPHY OF WISDOM-SCIENCE, THE ARYAN NOBLE PATH ACCORDING TO THE LORD OF WISDOM-COMPASSION-HOLINESS BUDDHA GAUTAMA SAKKIAMUNI, SPIRITUAL REALISATION (BODHA), SPIRITUAL SCIENCE, NEW AGE ECONOMY, BIOPSYCHOSOMATICS, HUMAN REJUVENATION, DIVINE UNITY, MENTAL MAGIC, PYTHAGOREANISM, BETTER MARITAL HARMONY OR CREATIVE SEXOLOGY, THE SCIENCE OF TITHING, CHARACTER BUILDING, THE MAGIC POWER OF MAN, HYPNOLOGY, HYPNOTHERAPY, etc., etc.
The SIX Courses specially mentioned are the ones, which are preferred by most people throughout the world, and we are giving them very much attention. We are organized, however, in different Continental Sectors so as to receive millions of new Students, and to that effect, we have made exceptionally low cost editions of them in different languages, reducing also the number and quality of the illustrations. They are, nevertheless, just as good and effective as the most costly edited ones.
These Courses of Study are not only complete, illustrated and exclusive, but they are encyclopedias by themselves, needing no available now in English, French, German, Spanish, and Arabic. – Editions in Russian, Chinese, Urdu, Yiddish, and Japanese are under preparation. Others in other tongues are also contemplated.
While all our Courses of study are absolutely FREE to the individual Members of the UNIVERSAL RELIGIOUS ALLIANCE, we want to respond to a growing demand among the non-adherent public. That is why we have prepared a Low Cost Scholarship Plan, which enables anybody or everybody to enjoy those unique as well as exceptional educational facilities. In fact, these Courses of Study cannot be obtained elsewhere and nowhere else either could Students enjoy the many privileges, which accompany such Study.
People do not have to be Members of the UNIVERSAL RELIGIOUS ALLIANCE in order to enjoy such special studies. All they have to do is Register, and meet the expenses of printing and mailing, which amounts to about $ 2.oo per month. There is no restriction of any sort, and Students are free to abandon studies whenever they wish. - All we expect from them is sincerity of purpose and due earnestness during their period of Study.
Persons thus Registering will receive, beside their selected Course of Study, a Membership Card which evidence that they are Students of our Educational Section, with specification of Scholarship time, Faculty, and name of Course of Study.
UNIVERSAL RELIGIOUS ALLIANCE, Inc.
Educational Section (World University)
Calle 21, número 19, (1)
Vedado, Havana, CUBA


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Correlation of interannual sea level variations in the Indian Ocean from Topex/Poseidon altimetry, temperature data and tide gauges with ENSO." Global and Planetary Change 43 (2004): 183-196. Abstract"
GRACE observations of changes in continental water storage." Global and Planetary Change 50 (2006): 112-126. Abstract"
Land water storage contribution to sea level from GRACE geoid data over 2003 2006." Global and Planetary Change 60 (2008): 381-392. Abstract"
Interannual variations of the mass balance of the Antarctica and Greenland ice sheets from GRACE." Global and Planetary Change 53 (2006): 198-208. Abstract"
Global time variations of hydrological signals from GRACE satellite gravimetry." Geophysical Journal International 158 (2004): 813-826. Abstract"
Time variations of land water storage from an inversion of 2 years of GRACE geoids [rapid communication]." Earth and Planetary Science Letters 235 (2005): 283-301. Abstract"
Recent Climate Observations Compared to Projections." Science 316 (2007): 709-. Abstract"
Sea level variability in the Arctic Ocean observed by satellite altimetry." Ocean Science Discussions 9, no. 4 (2012): 2375-2401. Abstract"
Is coastal mean sea level rising faster than the global mean? A comparison between tide gauges and satellite altimetry over 1993-2007." Geophysical Research Letters 36 (2009): 05602. Abstract"
Sea-Level Rise and Its Impact on Coastal Zones." Science 328, no. 5985 (2010): 1517-1520. Abstract"
Validation of the land water storage simulated by Organising Carbon and Hydrology in Dynamic Ecosystems (ORCHIDEE) with Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) data." Water Resources Research 43 (2007): 04427. Abstract"
Contribution of continental water to sea level variations during the 1997–1998 El Niño–Southern Oscillation event: Comparison between Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project simulations and TOPEX/Poseidon satellite data." Journal of Geophysical Research 110, no. D9 (2005): D09103. Abstract"
Effects of land water storage on global mean sea level over the past half century." Geophysical Research Letters 32 (2005): 09704. Abstract"
Comment on "Estimating future sea level change from past records" by Nils-Axel Mörner." Global and Planetary Change 55 (2007): 358-360. Abstract"
Present-day sea-level change: A review." Comptes Rendus Geoscience 338 (2006): 1077-1083. Abstract"
Global runoff over 1993–2009 estimated from coupled land-ocean-atmosphere water budgets and its relation with climate variability." Hydrology and Earth System Sciences Discussions 9, no. 4 (2012): 4633-4665. Abstract"
Annual cycle in mean sea level from Topex–Poseidon and ERS-1: inference on the global hydrological cycle." Global and Planetary Change 20, no. 1 (1999): 57-66. Abstract"
Contribution of climate-driven change in continental water storage to recent sea-level rise." Proceedings of the National Academy of Science 100 (2003): 13158-13161. Abstract"
Sea level: A review of present-day and recent-past changes and variability." Journal of Geodynamics 58 (2012): 96-109. Abstract"
Tropical Pacific spatial trend patterns in observed sea level: internal variability and/or anthropogenic signature?" Climate of the Past 8, no. 2 (2012): 787-802. Abstract"
Perspectives on present-day sea level change: a tribute to Christian le Provost." Ocean Dynamics 56 (2006): 445-451. Abstract"
Contribution of thermal expansion to present-day sea-level change revisited." Global and Planetary Change 47 (2005): 1-16. Abstract"
Estimation of steric sea level variations from combined GRACE and Jason-1 data." Earth and Planetary Science Letters 254 (2007): 194-202. Abstract"
Thermosteric sea level rise for the past 50 years; comparison with tide gauges and inference on water mass contribution." Global and Planetary Change 48 (2005): 303-312. Abstract"


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We have a very special cover star on this week's LOOK magazine, because for the first time EVER, we're featuring a real girl as our star!
As you all know, we're all about embracing all shapes and sizes over here at LOOK, which is why we picked the gorgeous Ali Tate to appear on the front.
24-year-old Ali is rocking Simply Be, who we're partnering with this week, and also happened to win our LOOK curvy supermodel competition all the way back in 2011.
So, what's the lady herself got to say about starring on our first celebrity-free cover?
'I had no idea that entering LOOK's competition would change my life', she told us. 'Before seeing it in the magazine, I never considered modeling, I always felt insecure about my body. But getting to the final really boosted my confidence.'
'I quit my old job and began to focus on my career – and now I feel happy and secure about the way I look, plus I've worked with some of the world's best-known brands and photographers and even done a nude shoot with Rankin.'
'I really have LOOK to thank for that', she added. 'I have always appreciated that LOOK features women of all sizes, so I'm honoured to be on the cover. It's a proud moment!'
Aw. And we couldn't be more proud to have her…
Inside, you can also see Ali rocking Simply Be's gorgeous Christmas party collection – just what you need to get you looking glam for the festive season.
Polly Wakelin, Simply Be Brand team says: 'At Simply Be we are always looking for ways to showcase perfect-fitting fashion and celebrate confident curves so when LOOK magazine approached us with this unique opportunity to appear on the cover, damn right we said yes!'
Latest Stories
'We are really excited about this collaboration. LOOK has always pushed the boundaries by showcasing the curvier girl, a viewpoint we share here at Simply Be. Realness in advertising is key because fashion definitely shouldn't come with a dress size.'
The issue goes on sale today, so don't forget to grab a copy. Oh, and you'll get a cheeky 20% off everything at Simply Be, too! WIN.


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With the Alabama Crimson Tide losing, they predictably fell out of the #1 slot in the BCS. Kansas State is the new #1 and the Oregon Ducks are the new #2. Bama is now #4 behind Notre Dame
• Schools debuting in 2012 BCS Standings: No. 25 Washington.
• Dropped out of BCS Standings: No. 21 Mississippi State, No. 24 Northwestern; No. 25 Toledo.
• Kansas State makes its first-ever appearance at No. 1 in the BCS Standings. The Wildcats are the first Big 12 team to
hold the No. 1 spot in the BCS Standings since Oklahoma on Oct. 17, 2010.
• Teams occupying the No. 1 position in Week Five of the BCS Standings have become BCS champions four times,
including the first three years of the Standings. They include Tennessee (1998), Florida State (1999), Oklahoma
(2000), and LSU (2007).
• The SEC becomes the first conference in BCS history to have six schools ranked in the top 10: No. 4 Alabama, No. 5
Georgia, No. 6 Florida, No. 7 LSU, No. 8 Texas A&M, and No. 9 South Carolina. The conference breaks its own
record set earlier this year when it placed five schools in the top 10.
• No. 1 Kansas State and No. 2 Oregon end the SEC's 19-week streak of having a team in the top two positions in the
BCS Standings, dating back to Oct. 17, 2010.
• No. 8 Texas A&M boasts its highest ranking and first top 10 appearance in the BCS Standings since Dec. 6, 1998.
• No. 17 UCLA has reached its highest ranking since its appearance at No. 16 on December 4, 2005. The Bruins are in
the BCS Standings for consecutive weeks for the first time since 2005.
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He's also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Chicago Tribune.com, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports
A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; he's also a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too.Powered by Sidelines Follow paulmbanks


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The Relaxation Room is available as a quiet space to rejuvenate within the Wellness Center. RAW members can utilize The Relaxation Room to relax, meditate, or powernap. Bean bag chairs, ambient lighting, and a sound machine provide an atmosphere to students for clearing the mind while calming the body. To contribute to the relaxing environment, talking must be kept to a minimum and electronic devices are not allowed.
The Relaxation Room is a multi-user area and no individual may monopolize space. Individuals must keep the door open for member safety.


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Member Reviews
Betty T, Reviewer
Tayari Jones does not sugar coat her stories. They are raw, they are real. In her latest book "An American Marriage" her characters deal with the realities of their place in this world. The characters are well developed – all with flaws, all with positive qualities. There were times I wanted to embrace a character and then later I felt like asking the same character "What were you thinking?!!" No one was all good, nor all bad. They were real! I had no idea how I wanted the story to go. I kept changing my mind. And I was never sure how the author would end their story. This is the story of Roy and Celestial Hamilton who met through her best friend Dre. Roy and Celestial married and were deeply in love when after only 18 months of marriage had their world turned upside down. Roy goes to prison for a crime he did not commit. While he is away Celestial turns to Dre for support. Then when he is released he returns to different life. Has his marriage survived? Love, race, trust, loyalty, honesty, family obligations are all explored. This is a heartfelt story, nothing flashy. Ms. Jones wrote in such a way that I could feel the pain the characters felt over the decisions they had to make. No one was going to escape untouched. 'An American Marriage" is perfect for book clubs. It lends itself to an amazing discussion of the choices made, the consequences, the interactions, race inequality, feminism, family definition. Mistakes are made, loved ones are betrayed, the term family is redefined, and emotions are laid bare. This is real life. Also posted on BookBrowse.com, Facebook group (ReadingisMyPassion), Twitter (BettyLovesBooks), Edelweiss, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million
Reviewer 281893
I liked this book very much. It was beautifully written and very believable. I would read more from this author.
Joan M, Librarian
This explores the ups and downs of dealing with a husband who has been encarerated. The hopes and dream vs the reality.
Amanda J, Reviewer
Roy and Celestial are successful newlyweds living their dream in Atlanta when tragedy strikes. After only a year of marriage, Roy is arrested and sentenced to 12 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit and Celestial suddenly find herself living alone in a different state from her husband. Regular visits to Roy start to grow further and further apart and Celestial begins to seek comfort in her childhood friend, Andre. She realizes that the love she has for her husband might not be enough to weather his 12 year sentence and finds ways to move on with her life. Then after 5 years served, Roy is released with little notice and he returns to Atlanta to find his life extremely different than the one he left behind. This is a portrayal of how black Americans still deal with discrimination after Jim Crow. Segregation and discrimination isn't legally tolerated and enforced anymore but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Because of the color of his skin, Roy paid the price for a crime he didn't commit. While he's sitting in court, he looks at the jury and thinks all 12 of those people will not take him at his word because it's against a white woman's. All the while he has sympathy for the woman, because the crime committed against her was atrocious. He doesn't begrudge her for having her memories mixed up after such a traumatic experience. But even with all the circumstantial evidence and an alibi from his wife, it's not enough. He was a black man in the wrong place at the wrong time in Louisiana. Everything that happens after isn't too hard to imagine. His mother grieves and prays daily for justice to prevail and their lawyer to find the answer for his release. His wife begins to find it difficult to visit him regularly. To see Roy shrink under the weight of where he is. To be treated like less of a person because she's visiting her husband in jail. To endure all they've endured after only a year of marriage seems unfathomable. To continue to endure the entire 12 year sentence seems like a lifetime. All because he was a black man in the wrong place at the wrong time. You get a good sense of the type of prejudice that replaced the legal Jim Crow system. This is an incredibly timely novel and it's no wonder that Oprah picked it for her book club. My only issue while reading this book was Celestial. While anyone can understand why someone would look for comfort and familiarity in her situation, I personally don't think leaving your husband just because he's in jail is excusable. Especially when he didn't commit a crime. You are his source of encouragement and strength. Your visits give him something to look forward to. Your lawyers have told you that they expect to find a way to get Roy released. It will likely not be an entire 12 years. I understand they were only married a year before it happened and that you are staring 12 years alone in the face. That she was separated from him and their marriage changed shape. I really do understand that this situation would be extremely difficult. But marriage is a commitment. You cannot quit during the for worse part. All of that said, I have never been in that situation and cannot say with 100% certainty what I might be tempted to do. I only wish she could have been stronger and used her new platform to advocate for her husband and the others in similar situations. One last thing that I found interesting is that both of the main characters found their selves back in similar situations to where they started. By the chance of their birth, Roy was born to a single mother working as a housekeeper in Louisiana and Celestial to two parents with steady jobs in an Atlanta suburb. Through hard work, Roy found himself a budding executive in Atlanta and Celestial an artist in New York. Through the circumstances of life, Roy finds himself right back where he started and Celestial back in her childhood home in Atlanta. Is Jones trying to make the point that the chance of their birth as black Americans can make it even more difficult to change their lives? If so, I'm glad she did, because it's something I never knew about the black American experience. And isn't that why we read to begin with?
Catherine C, Librarian
AN AMERICAN MARRIAGE by Tayari Jones (aka Oprah's latest book club pick) is really good! Keeping things surface level and relatively spoiler-free, it follows an upwardly mobile newlywed couple living in Atlanta. While Roy and Celestial have their issues, their future looks bright. That is, until Roy is sent to prison for a crime he did not commit. This novel touches on SO MANY interesting themes: marriage, commitment, black incarceration, justice, family dynamics, patriarchy, and class. While all of the characters are complex, flawed and empathy-inspiring, I found myself firmly on Team Roy. Yes, a lot of readers will choose sides, which is yet another reason why this is an excellent book club choice.
Lindsey E, Librarian
First of all, I received an advanced e-galley from Net Galley for an honest review. This book had me gripped and intrigued from the very beginning as it explored the marriage of Roy and Celestial over time. From the arrest of Roy for a crime he did not commit to Celestial's struggle with being faithful while Roy was incarcerated for five years, this book truly explores the struggles of love, marriage, fidelity, and a friendship post divorce. Extremely wonderful woven tale of the many struggles of marriage and faithfulness.
Lauren T, Bookseller
This emotional book gripped me right from the first page. It deals with every person's nightmare, going to jail for a crime they did not commit. I enjoyed how this book changed perspectives and was partly told through letters. Seeing how difficult it was for the woman married to the man in jail lead to my own thoughts of what would I do. Overall an amazing novel!
Chelsea P, Librarian
I have heard so many incredible things about this book, and I am here to say I was touched in much the same way other reviewers were. I can't possibly give any better recommendation than this book has already received (Hello, Oprah!!), but I will instead add my voice to the many who proclaim, "Yes, go read this book!"
Ema B, Reviewer
I downloaded this SO LONG ago after Gabrielle Zevin (my favouritest author in the history of the world) said that she was reading it and loving it, and then it fell into the huge pile of digital manuscripts I have right now, and then I read a chapter and was intrigued, but then another book came in and I got distracted again, but then finally this was released and I remembered I had it. And I'm so glad I finally sunk my teeth into this one. This had so many important themes going on, and a really strong love struggle (for lack of better terms) that had my heart aching for everyone involved. My absolute favourite part of this book was family, and the way that Roy looked to his parents so much. I think that respect and appreciation isn't visible as it used to be, and it was warming to see how much he revered them. I really just ache for humanity with this, in a way--the ending chapters were so gosh darn raw and emotional, and I was empathising so hard for these characters. There was truly no good solution that could come around and it was so heartwrenching to see how everything had changed. The ending--the ending and then the epilogue--was perfect. It did not make me angry. It was perfect, truly perfect. I am so, so immensely pleased with how Jones ended this. No spoilers. But I was very touched. Also, the US justice system, is screwed up. I'll add that. I also loved the Southern culture and feel to it, especially when characters were in New York. Excellent novel.
Corinne K, Media
This book feels so real. The characters are full bodied, they react humanly which includes irrationally up against complicated circumstances. I'm not sure I've ever read a more real feeling relationship. This is a book that's going to stay with me.
Nicole L, Reviewer
I will be honest with you -- I didn't even read the synopsis before I jumped at the chance to read Tayari Jones's An American Marriage. I absolutely adored her previous novel, so I knew that this was a must read for me. Roy and Celestial are newlyweds when Roy is arrested and jailed for a crime he did not commit. Married only a year at the time of his arrest, the couple finds that they have different visions of what marriage can and should be during a forced separation. Celestial becomes fairly well known for her doll creations while Roy sits in prison, missing the life he was supposed to lead. Celestial finds a shoulder to lean on in her childhood best friend, Andre, and tries to move on with her life. At least, until Roy wins an appeal and is released early. Can a couple separated by time, miles, and spirit make a go of it, or is it too late for them? I was quite taken with this narrative, and Jones's ability to craft such honest and real characters in her world. It also snagged my heart a little, as Celestial is from and currently resides in Atlanta, which I also consider my home. Jones knows how to dig deep into the clay of the earth and sculpt characters from nothing, line by line, until they become so lifelike that you forget they aren't real. She does that in this novel, and it's an incredible work of art. The book alternates narrators, and I was struck by Roy in particular, as I found him to be an unreliable (albeit captive) narrator. I was waiting for the bomb to drop that maybe he actually did commit the crime -- and I won't tell you the answer to that -- but the truth (without spoilers) is that this part of the story doesn't matter. When the story takes a sharp left toward the end, it's about the characters and their complicated, interwoven relationships that have you raising your eyebrows and choosing a side. In this novel, just as in life, there are no winning sides, really. In the game of love, someone is bound to get hurt, and bad. There are so many loving, shining moments in this novel that they are hard to illuminate. Do you love Andre, or do you hate him? I liked him, then I disliked him, then I felt bad for him, then I felt triumphant, and finally I became sad for him. Do you love Roy or do you want to punch him in the face? I liked him a great deal at first, then I came to despise him if only for the character arc that Jones has prescribed him. That is, as per usual, a compliment, for to have a strong draw to or away from any aspect of any narrative or character is a testament to the ability of the hand holding the pen. Celestial is the third in the triangle for whom my opinion wavered constantly, and I'm still mulling over the final pull she had on the characters and who they became. Tayari Jones is one of those writers that I feel understands the complicated web of human emotion deep down in her core, and I will always run to pick up her work. It makes me feel alive and thrilled and devastated and whole.
Jamie R, Librarian
Well written, unique, captivating. Really enjoyed and see what the hype is about!
Reviewer 176027
I feel like this book being selected for Oprah's Book Club got me off the hook for writing a review. I write reviews to make people aware of books that I think should be getting more attention than they are. It's clear this book isn't going to have that problem. So I'll keep this brief. While the marriage of Roy and Celestial is at the center of this novel, several marriages are presented. Blended families, broken marriages, and marriages that have withstood the test of time are not just added to shake up the narrative but are written in a way that gives attention to nuances that are often missed by those on the outside looking in. But this book is about more than marriages. Tayari unabashedly portrays the upward mobility of African Americans in the Deep South. Beautifully juxtaposed with a family some would say has achieved the American Dream is an African American family that is equally stability but without same financial wealth. This novel felt so close. So familiar. I felt like these characters were real and that I was all up in grown folks' business. And novel that has an educated and ambitious black woman with two educated and ambitions black men vying for her affections? I. Am. Here. For. It. To sum it up in a sentence, I'd say "An American Marriage" is the literary equivalent of soul food.
Jenny C, Librarian
I liked but didn't love this story of a marriage in the newly crowned Oprah Book Club pick (I had started it the day before it was announced!) Liked - the setting (Atlanta for the most part) and how the characters are products of the complex class system of Atlanta neighborhoods, ideas of the "people you come from" and what that means or doesn't mean, the realistic portrayal of a marriage and what happens when a major challenge comes along, the look at black incarceration and the question of justice. How much does a marriage commitment mean? What if you are likely not to even see your spouse for 12 years? What is the expectation of the spouse left behind? It was easy to feel compassion towards all sides. Less than liked - while I'm usually a fan of letters, I felt the narrative ended up feeling lopsided, resorting to letters and multiple points of view when I'm not sure it needed to. Maybe one but not both. The underlying issues are almost too subtle and mainly come across in conversations, but I mean, one character spends half the book in prison! There are also a few too many overly convenient coincidences. This is my first book by this author and I would absolutely read another. I can't even think of the last non-dystopian novel I've read that is set in Atlanta. And I agree with Oprah that this makes a good book club novel, because there is a lot to discuss. Quotes about marriage: "Marriage is between two people. There is no studio audience." Quotes about incarceration: "That's your fate as a black man. Carried by six or judged by twelve." "You know what they say: if you go five miles outside of Atlanta proper, you end up in Georgia. You know what else they say? What do you call a black man with a PhD? The same thing you call one driving a high-end SUV." (this comes after a discussion about how all black men with expensive cars in the south are treated like drug dealers by the police)
Lisa B, Librarian
This book is full of what it means to love, lose, and make sacrifices. I would not be surprised to hear that this novel wins awards in the coming year. I recommend this heartily.
Susie D, Reviewer
An American Marriage is a powerful, moving, and very human story of a couple forced into an impossible situation. It's told by through three distinct and authentic characters, all of whom are doing their best but are fallible. It's a heartbreaking book that's definitely worth a read. I mean, it's the first book selected for Oprah's Book Club in seven years, and Oprah would never lead you astray!
Trish R, Librarian
This book is beautifully written; heartbreaking and true. Through the story of one couple fractured by a system in which a black man can be both innocent and imprisoned, An American Marriage explores ideas of justice, loyalty, and commitment
Kelly H, Reviewer
This is such a compelling book! I can definitely see why Oprah made it her newest book club pick (I'm definitely learning to take her advice when it comes to books, although I requested it before that happened.) This book is all about bad luck and bad timing. It's clear that Roy isn't guilty of the crime he's convicted for (and there's no last minute reveal that he was guilty the whole time). The suspense comes from what will happen once Roy is released---will he get his life back? I've heard people say that this is a slow book but I didn't feel that way at all. I was invested immediately and I wanted everything to work out for everyone, even though there wasn't a way to make every character happy. An American Marriage is an absolute masterpiece. Highly recommended.
Tara C, Reviewer
With most novels and stories that I enjoy in a deep down kind of way, a level of enjoyment that is tough to describe, there is a particular element which has resonated with me on a personal level; however, when I think of An American Marriage, there is no way to distinguish any one theme or character because I felt like I was inside the story from the very beginning. "Love makes a place in your life, it makes a place for itself in your bed. Invisibly, it makes a place in your body, rerouting all your blood vessels, throbbing right alongside your heart. When it's gone, nothing is whole again." Jones's prose is completely captivating, the story powerfully compelling; I had no idea how quickly I would read through this novel but, once I began, I could not stop. Roy Hamilton and Celestial Davenport have been married for less than two years when Roy is convicted of a crime he did not commit, then sentenced to twelve years in prison. "You also have to work with the love you are given, with all of the complications clanging behind it like tin cans tied to a bridal sedan." This novel is not about an unjust conviction, a prison sentence, or an affair; instead, it is about unspoken expectations, idealization and fearful wondering during extended absence, and our roles and responsibilities as individuals, sometimes spouses, to one another. "Marriage is like grafting a limb onto a tree trunk. You have the limb, freshly sliced, dripping sap, and smelling of springtime, and then you have the mother tree stripped of her protective bark, gouged and ready to receive this new addition [...]. Even now, all these years later, there's something not quite natural about the tree, even in its amazing two-tone glory." Due to my own personal experiences with the subject matter, I feel confident in stating that this novel resonated with me more than it will with most readers; numerous passages have been highlighted and there were times when I had to put the book down, sit back, and reflect on what I'd read. "Would anybody who knew me then recognize me today? Innocent or not, prison changes you, makes you into a convict. Striding across the parking lot, I actually shook my head like a wet dog to get these thoughts out of my mind. I reminded myself that the point was that I was walking out the door. Front door, back door. Same difference." Having acknowledged a very personal connection, I must also admit that I will wholeheartedly recommend this one to nearly every reader I know; An American Marriage will likely become one of my favorite books of the year.
Susie B, Reviewer
{My Thoughts} What Worked For Me A Dark Look at the American South – An American Marriage opens with a certain level of foreboding. Married just over a year, Roy and Celestial travel from their home in Atlanta to visit his parents in rural Louisiana, with Celestial feeling decidedly uneasy about the trip. This young couple would seem to have it all, budding careers, a beautiful home and plans to start a family. But less than 24-hours later, Roy has been arrested and charged with the rape of a white woman, despite the fact that he was with Celestial in their motel room when the rape occurred. Celestial's word, Roy's testimony, none of it matters against the word of his accuser in a small Southern courtroom. Roy is sentenced to 12 years in prison. Sadly, this outcome is not shocking or the real focus of An American Marriage. What Is Right? – The heart of this book is the struggle for this couple to hold onto a young marriage that hasn't been around long enough to stand the test of time. At first Roy tells Celestial not to wait for him, but of course she's not willing to abandon him. As the months and years go on, it gets harder for them both. Roy clings tighter. Celestial pushes back. Is it wrong for her to give up hope? Is it right for him to demand her love even as he pushes away? What is right in an utterly wrong situation? Alternating Perspectives – Jones used the alternate perspectives of Roy, Celestial, and Andre (friend to both) to bring An American Marriage to life. It took all three to see the full picture. I loved the voice of Roy. His words carried the weary weight of his time in prison, along with love for his parents, and for Celestial. As the story approached its climax Roy's thoughts bounced between lucidity and desperation. "Sometimes I wonder if she would know me now. Would anybody who knew me then recognize me today? Innocent or not, prison changes you, makes you into a convict." In some ways Celestial had the most difficult role of all. Living on the outside, her life went on, even as she tried to wait for the man she'd married. "My husband's ghost showed itself in the guise of other men, almost always young, haircuts Easter fresh year-round. They didn't always share his physical attributes; no, they were as diverse as humanity. But I recognized them by the ambition that clung to their skins like a spicy cologne, the slight breeze of power that stirred the air, and finally, a mourning that left my mouth tasting of ash." An Exquisite Ending – That's about all I can say. Just know it left me feeling exactly as it should have, satisfied and saddened. What Didn't Letters – The only part of An American Marriage that didn't work for me was the large section of the book (20%) that was told in the form of letters. These were primarily between Roy and Celestial during his time in prison, and for me they became extremely tedious. I found Roy's letters especially long-winded and preachy. I wish the author could have delivered the same information and feeling in in some other way. {The Final Assessment} While I can't quite give An American Marriage a perfect rating, I nonetheless highly recommend this book. The examination of a young marriage put to the test under the most trying of circumstances felt both important and real. The author did not sugarcoat or play favoritism with any of her characters. Instead she placed them in a heartbreaking situation and tackled it with amazing honesty. Grade: B+ Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for my honest review.