text:
I've been teaching long enough to have taught two generations of kids. I'm sad to say that I am seeing big, big changes in the kids raised today, and as a teacher, as a parent, as an adult, it is alarming. I'm talking about entitled youth. You know them: They don't wait for anything. Their parents don't want them punished. EVER. Consequences? Yeah, right! Everything is done for them, they get a medal for participating, and everyone deserves as many chances as they want.
It's a touchy subject, but as the adults here, we need to stop and look around at what is happening. What are we doing? Where did the parent or teacher with authority go? And worse…what are we setting these kids up for?
Imagine this: You are at work and you don't do something by a deadline. Does your boss give you more time? Does he/she give you a bonus because you made it to work that day at all? No?
Well, imagine this school setting: A school has a reward planned for students who meet basic behavioral expectations. Let's say the reward is an ice cream party for the last 30 minutes of the day. Perhaps the behavior expectation is that students can't serve detention for the quarter or maybe they aren't tardy to school for a semester. The day of the reward comes, and a mother is mad that her child will not be participating, so she raises such a stink that the school backs down.
What lesson has the mother taught that child? Several, sadly.
1. Rules don't matter, because they should have exceptions for you.
2. Adults don't have any authority over a mad mother.
3. If you get in trouble, just tell your mom to fix it. Consequences aren't for you!
4. Getting a reward you don't deserve is okay.
This is just not okay! I find it so sad that a parent would be more upset at the idea that her child would not attend the ice cream party than the fact that her child consistently chose to break rules. As a teacher, I see this sort of behavior so often, and I have to be honest, some of the students I'm seeing are not living in reality anymore.
Imagine this classroom: A teacher plays a game with her students and gives a prize to the winner(s). At the end of the game, half of the class approaches her for a prize, because they participated. Wait! Are there prizes in life for just participating? Sometimes, yes, but mostly, no. Prizes are given to winners. Participating in life is just expected of us.
Imagine this morning situation: A student gets to school and realizes he/she has forgotten to bring a lunch. The student goes to the teacher and asks to call home so Mom or Dad can bring lunch. Wait! Do the mom and dad work? Do they have to drop everything and jump to the rescue of the child? Does the school not have a cafeteria? Is the child's day more important than the parent's?
Imagine this homework assignment: A project is due, and although the teacher has been monitoring the class's progress and has emailed a student's parent that the child is not making any progress, on the due date, the project is turned in, very well done, and seemingly done by an adult. Surely this parent didn't do the project, did he/she? Well, sadly, this happens, too.
I'm writing this because I am a teacher and I do see this happening. However, I'm also a mother, and I'm not perfect. I want my child to win the prize. I want my child to participate in the ice cream social. I think school lunches are terribly unhealthy and disgusting and I want my child to eat a good lunch. Lastly, I want my child to turn in a great project and get an A.
But…I also know that I NEED my child to put in his best effort. I NEED my child to respect adults and follow rules. I NEED my child to know that I have a very busy life and I cannot drop everything to wait on him all of the time. I NEED my child to do the learning on his own. So, I let my child receive consequences from an adult when he breaks the rules. I let my child see someone win a prize. Doesn't that give him something to aspire to? I let my child eat a school lunch. He didn't forget his lunch again! I let him get the grade he deserved on an assignment. As a teacher, I also him do some extra work at home to practice that same skill he didn't seem to want to do at school.
I think it is time for parents to start being the parents again. No, please don't read this as me saying all parents need to change! I'm also not saying that parents don't love their children or should never help them when needed. It seems like some parents want to show their children how much they love them by taking away any unpleasantness in their lives. We may think we are helping, but in the long run, we are raising kids who grow up and get hit hard with reality. It hurts way more the older we get, so teaching the hard lessons at a young age is that much more important!
So I propose this:
1. Let your child fail. No, not fail 9th grade, necessarily, but failing a spelling test or serving a detention for a missing assignment will not be the end of the world. Not participating in a reward that he/she didn't deserve will teach your child to do his/her best and it will make a victory that much more appreciated.
2. When your child fails, be there to support him or her. Give a hug, do some encouraging, come up with a game plan TOGETHER.
3. Teach your child to try his/her best and then be proud of the real accomplishments. Is math hard for your child? Did he move from progressing to proficient or from a C- to a C+? Those deserve celebrating! Don't do the work for your child, but by all means, be involved and work WITH your child.
4. Teach them to be independent. Does your middle schooler or high schooler still call you to bring things to school? Teach him to make lists, organize his backpack the night before, and use a planner to keep track of important information. Maybe give your child a one-time emergency call where he/she can call you to bring something from home. Just don't make it an every week thing, or your child will never learn to become organized.
5. Does your child whine if she doesn't win? Practice things that are difficult for her. Find activities she excels at so she might get a sweet taste of her own victory. Most importantly, discuss what the winner might have done to prepare for winning.
6. Work with your child's teacher and not against him or her. Reach out to the teacher. Speak to him or her like a professional. Admit where your child has weaknesses and ask for help. We probably see a side of your child that you don't see. I ask my son's teacher about his work habits because I don't know what he is like in a room of 20 kids. I know what he is like at home. Does he do his homework for me? Yes, because I am one adult in charge of one child. That is a pretty great ratio. When it is one adult to 20 children, I can't say that my child always does what he needs to. I trust his teacher and I want her to tell me how he does on his own. After all, as much as I love my son, I don't want to raise a child who will be living with me when he is 30!
7. Don't make excuses for your child. Did your child not do his homework? Don't explain to the teacher all of the activities your child does as a reason for your child to not do what is expected. So your child has sports practice after school. If he/she cannot fulfill school requirements, maybe those sports need to be put on hold until the time is right.
I'd love to hear what you all think about this! Teachers and parents, please leave a comment or share on Facebook. This is so important and we all are working together to raise this generation. Let's help them become independent and learn how to make good choices.


text:
Photographer's Note
Urvinum Hortense
Near Collemancio, in the commune of Cannara there is one of the most interesting and less known archaeological sites in Umbria, the ruins of the ancient Urvinum Hortense, probably founded in the III century BC. during the consolidation of the Roman military positions in the Umbrian area, on the site of an ancient pre-Roman vicus. Around the fifth century the village went to depopulation and abandoned, which became total when, in 545 the goths of Totila sacked the city.
Critiques | Translate
pajaran (83201) 2018-02-14 6:08
Dobar dan.
Interesantan pogled, dobar tekst ...
Lepo pokazano, dobra perspektiva i kontrast, lepe boje.
Lepa stara arhitektura - rusevina.
Zelim vam lepo popodne, sve najbolje.
Good day.
Interesting view, good text ...
Beautifully shown, good perspective and contrast, beautiful colors.
Beautiful old architecture - ruin.
I wish you good afternoon, all the best.
holmertz (75157) 2018-02-14 6:22
Hello Silvio,
It may seem like a simple photo, but the diagonal line made by the ancient wall is very attractive, thanks to the rough beauty of the huge stones and the warm light. Just the knowledge of the long history of this place is enough to make it impressive. The excellent exposure and sharpness are other great assets of this photo.
Kind regards,
snunney (126124) 2018-02-14 6:31
Hello Silvio,
I like very much the oblique point of view along these huge stones. The golden colours and textures look quite beautiful under the warm October light.
Fis2 (130957) 2018-02-14 6:54
Witaj Silvio!
A very curious place.
Interesting wall, stones make impression.
Good frame, colors and light.
Well done.
Nice afternoon.
pierrefonds (85599) 2018-02-14 7:58
Hi Silvio,
The point of view is showing the details of the ruins of the ancient Urnivinum Hortense. It is clear and precise. The light is giving good colors output. Have a nice day.
jean113 (11733) 2018-02-14 8:25
Hello Silvio, the question is... how did they manage to lift these stones and place them just so?
Good, sharp composition with the wall making a strong diagonal line.
I wonder too, what was discovered by archaeologists in this area?
Regards Jean.
Ciao Silvio
Bella foto archeologica della Umbria
ottimo POV e belli colori
cari saluti e auguri per San Valentino
lousat (113081) 2018-02-14 9:47
Ciao Silvio,il sito sembra molto importante ma dalla foto non si deduce un gran che,la prospettiva и bella ma il soggetto и un po' monotono,comunque la qualita' и eccellente. Sto ancora ridendo per il titolo della foto di Walterantonio,sembra quello che i miei clienti stranieri ogni tanto mi dicono..ehehe...buona serata,Luciano
carlo62 (73740) 2018-02-14 14:52
Ciao Silvio
certo che questi romani hanno lasciato "sassi" dappertutto, li potevano anche raccogliere prima di tornare a casa....
L'ombra scura ci da un senso di robustezza molto forte.
Ottima diagonale
rychem (60387) 2018-02-14 21:04
Impressive stone wall, I can imagine it was a mighty fortifikation, great photo, beautiful light and composition
regards Ryszard
Cricri (148454) 2018-02-14 22:56
Ciao Silvio
Bon gros plan de ces pierres d'une largeur importante, belle couleurs, intйressante prйsentation
Belle journйe
sacimar (35253) 2018-02-15 5:22
Ciao Silvio,
good image of this place, it must be an interesting archaeological site to visit, I like the combination of rocks here, well done,
Best regards,
Lidka (527) 2018-02-15 8:12
Dear Silvio!
Superb stone by stone.
Fine place.
Nice lightness and colours.
Mysterious shadow.
Good contrast.
Sophisticated effect.
Well done!
ikeharel (93834) 2018-02-15 9:25
Buona sera Silvio,
Whenever I see such a picture, I ask myself how did the masons did this job in the old era with no modern machines and no cranes to mount the big blocks in such a meticulous manner.
Intriguing subject, well shown scene.
ChrisJ (143079) 2018-02-18 3:24
Hello Silvio,
I like the textural details of the rough stone wall as well as its diagonal alignment adding dynamism and a 3d effect. TFs!
abmdsudi (74804) 2018-02-18 5:31
Hi Silvio
An interesting capture of the ruins on a beautiful golden hour and good use of pov just the right time of day bringing up it's detail and loads of textures. Contrast to blue sky can't be better than this, excellent take, Congrats.
Best wishes
dta (92298) 2018-02-19 6:38
Ciao Silvio ,
The view of this old ruin is quite simple , but the perspective is excellent , and the contrasts and shades make the difference.
mcmtanyel (46248) 2018-02-23 21:07
Hello Silvio,
Simple but pretty photo of these humble ruins. I like the leading lines generated by the stones. Well done!
jmdias (83535) 2018-03-01 5:52
nice and minimalist lower view of these ruins. nice compo
take care
Photo Information
- Copyright: Silvio Sorcini (Silvio1953) (179097)
- Genre: МЕСТА
- Medium: ЦВЕТНОЙ
- Date Taken: 2010-10-03
- Categories: АРХИТЕКТУРА
- Exposure: f/0.9, 30 секунд
- Версия: Оригинальная версия
- Date Submitted: 2018-02-14 6:04

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|2013-02-24, 23:56
|Link #41
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: United States of America.
Age: 25
shown an interest to SAO and tweeted about beginning voice-over work for a new anime next week on January 18th, 35 days before Aniplex USA announced a dub for SAO. Furthermore, they are screening it during Sakura-Con, only about a month away. I would assume they all ready have a cast ready and set now, right? There's also another tweet from her on January 9th about recording an "adorable" anime character.
Of course, this is all just interesting observation and speculation. So I'd take it with a grain of salt.
Last edited by Sleeps; 2013-02-25 at 00:08. Reason: Fixed typo.
|2013-02-25, 20:09
|Link #43
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: new orleans
Age: 26
I really hope they can find somebody who can match Kirito's screams, those epic Link like screams lol.
I also showed my sister this series friday, she thought she wasn't gonna like it but I got her hooked on it, now we can't wait for the dubbed!
|2013-02-25, 22:14
|Link #44
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2009
and for good reasons). If Cristina Vee were to voice a character in Sword Art Online, I'd say Asuna because she's capable of capturing both Asuna's kind and aggressive of the tsundere personality.
|2013-02-25, 23:57
|Link #45
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: United States of America.
Age: 25
Ah.. I see, sou ka.. I never knew about that. I only follow about 5 VA's. So I never knew they would tweet things like that. Yeah, both tweets I mentioned can be anything really. Fate/Zero, SAO, heck maybe even Accel World, which was announced to be streamed on Neon Alley soon. Sandy Fox would be a good choice for Silica from watching your video, I can definitely see this fitting. I also have a feeling that Christina Vee will audition for Yuuki Asuna, not that I'm against it or anything. I mean, who doesn't want a lead role? Anyway, whatever happens I hope this project turns out good. I think this is the first time I watched something subbed, and it gets dubbed sooner or later. Might take time to get used to the English voices. I hope I am not disappointed.
|2013-03-25, 11:15
|Link #46
Junior Member
Join Date: Feb 2013
For all of the sao fans:
Aniplex of America confirmed during its live streaming panel on Friday that its release of the Sword Art Online television anime series will include an English dub.
Aniplex will hold an exclusive screening of the dub at Seattle's Sakura-Con convention in March, followed by a question-and-answer session with Sword Art Online light novel series creator Reki Kawahara. The anime's theme song performers Eir Aoi (Fate/Zero, Mobile Suit Gundam AGE) and Luna Haruna (Fate/Zero) will also appear at the event.
The company announced that it will screen the Fate/Zero television anime series' English dub at Sakura-Con on March 29, before it airs on Viz Media's Neon Alley streaming service this spring.
|2013-03-25, 19:48
|Link #48
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: California
^ Yeah, read about that not too long ago. I was hoping that they would've at least casted some well known Eng VA's for the main characters in Accel World.
Anyway back on topic, given the popularity of the series they need to have well known and respected VA's for the main characters. Having newbie VA's do the voices for Kirito and Asuna could end up being bad move for them.
Last edited by sky black swordman; 2013-03-26 at 03:48.
|2013-03-30, 18:28
|Link #50
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: United States of America.
Age: 25
Bryce Papenbrook - Kirigaya Kazuto
Cherami Leigh - Yuuki Asuna
Bryce was definitely my top guess, since he would be attending the convention, and after hearing his voice as Rin Okumura in Blue Exorcist, thought he'll make a decent Kirito.
Last edited by Sleeps; 2013-03-30 at 19:02. Reason: Fixed his name.
|2013-03-30, 18:50
|Link #51
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2011
Finding Cherami Leigh as Asuna was odd at first since she normally does work for Funimation and Funimation's in Texas. While Aniplex USA and Bang Zoom Entertainment are in the LA area.
But it actually turns out that Cherami Leigh moved to the LA area recently.
So is she done working with Funimation?
And as for Bryce doing Kirito and Cherami doing Asuna, I don't know how the dub will do.
Cherami's a good voice actress, I heard some of her roles in Funimation's anime titles.
- Ayano Kannagi (Kaze no Stigma)
- Chiffon Fairchild (Freezing, under the alias Ceelee Rose)
- Patty (Soul Eater)
- Tamaki Kawazoe (Bamboo Blade)
And of course...
- Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail)
- Shana (Shakugan no Shana Second, Final, OVA and Film)
As for Bryce, I don't know...
Last edited by DarkJak2050; 2013-03-30 at 19:01.
|2013-03-30, 19:44
|Link #52
Ore wa Kyasshan!
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Somewhere...
Age: 31
Bryce is in Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan and Blue Exorcist.
|2013-03-30, 20:16
|Link #53
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: United States of America.
Age: 25
That's his voice acting demo. Though don't judge on that one clip just yet! He's pretty good and talented. As for Cherami Leigh, I've only heard her as Miharu Takeshita in B Gata G Kei and Eucliwood Hellscythe in Kore Wa Zombie Desu Ka, though unfortunately she only had a few lines in episode eleven. Well, hopefully this project turns out well. Sayounara~
|2013-03-31, 10:56
|Link #54
Join Date: May 2007
Location: gs series
Age: 29
well give yet to seen series as for leads reveal give cherami in a california dub anime lead?
well give cherami got long list of well known from Funi dub anime from b gata, bamboo blade, dragonaut, Freezing, fairy tail, kaze no stigma, is this a zombie, negima series, panty & stocking, my bride is a mermaid, strike witches, shiki, shakugan no shana Funi dub, shuffle, xxxholic, soul eater, etc yet she only 24-25 years old.
while bryce give his parents are voice actors as well sorta a 2nd gen of voice actor & also trained in Chuck Norris version Tang Soo Do karate & anime dubs did from ah my buddha, Ao no Exorcist, Durarara!!, eiken, green green, & etc.
yea wonder rest of cast will be?
|2013-04-01, 00:18
|Link #57
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2011
If that sample is legit (haven't heard a dub from the guy playing Kirito, but that certainly sounded like Cherami playing Asuna) then I would have to say that I am satisfied. This is way better then some of the dubs i have been looking at recently and would definitely be interested in putting this on my must buy dub list.
|2013-04-01, 04:03
|Link #58
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2011
Although, I think Patrick Seitz is a good fit with Agil. At least I think that's Patrick Seitz doing Agil.
I think it's him because I recognize his voice as Simon from Durarara!!
Unfortunately, the poster of that video didn't get Ep. 1's audio like he did with Ep. 2. And also the fact that only the first 2 episodes were shown at Sakura-con, from what I heard. Now I'm left wondering on who did Klein's English Voice.
So with that, Main character and Episode Shown wise we have:
Kirito: Bryce Papenbrook
Asuna: Cherami Leigh
Agil: Patrick Seitz(?)
Klein: Unknown
|2013-04-08, 17:46
|Link #59
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: United States of America.
Age: 25
Cassandra Lee - Leafa
Christine Marie Cabanos - Silica
Sarah Williams - Lisbeth
Patrick Seitz - Agil
At this time though, I can't get the trailer to play. Aniplex is known to have problems with their YouTube uploads.
Cassandra Lee as... Leafa? Okay.. I'm not too sure about this. She'll have to 'wow' me to gain approval, but for now, I dunno.. makes me wonder if she'll also be playing Suguha? I guess you could assume. Makes me feel very skeptical.
Christine Marie Cabanos as Silica. Okay, not a bad choice. I actually thought about her playing this role, although I would have to agree just as someone else mentioned here in this thread, Sandy Fox would probably have been a better choice. But, Christine does have potential, and I hope she does good. She'll probably make her voice sound identical to Nakano Azusa, or hopefully make it sound much lighter. Check her demo reel for more.
Sarah Williams as Lisbeth. I don't think that's a bad choice either. I can definitely see this fit.
Patrick Seitz as Agil, yeah, the guesses were correct. This guy does a great job as Agil.
|2013-04-16, 14:43
|Link #60
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2009
I'll be fine with her voicing Rin Natsume in the Little Busters! dub if Sentai Filmworks is interested.
|Thread Tools


text:
Your Silence
Your silence echoes loudly through
the corridors of my soul
It's mute tones screaming
in my mind.
I feel you turn from me, I
feel your heart chill.
I am frightened as my spirit
turns to find it is alone.
My eyes move, seeking you
vainly. I cannot see your
face, it's become shrouded
by a mist of confusion.
I reach out for you, my
hands open, seeking your
warmth. But your arms no
longer open back towards me.
The sun is gone, taking with
it the warmth of my day..
Taking with it the light
of my world.
I am confused, I am
lost. I yearn for the sound
of your laughter, yearn even
for the gentle coolness of your
The flower withers in my hand.
It's bloom now wilted and
gone. My heart follows behind,
heeding it's example.
""When the heart sings and the spirit soars,
the music of life is complete."
bkh - October 99
"Love is the music the heart sings best."
"To bring you laughter each morning and warmth at night...
would bring me joy at all hours." :c)
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text:
How To Declutter Your Home
Clutter is a natural fact of life and the problem started with our Caveman ancestors. Way back in those Cave Days you needed to accumulate as much food and supplies as you could in order to ensure your survival. Life was simple. You dragged it all into your cave. This was SMART and IMPORTANT to do. Otherwise you might DIE. But times have changed since then.
We've progressed a great deal since those early days, and food and materials for survival are much easier to come by, but we all still harbor a little voice in our heads that wants us to hold on to stuff "because we might need it."
Don't believe it. It's that ancient caveman survival voice, and it's not going to help you now.
Now, we run the greater risk of suffocating our life under an accumulation of small and large possessions (and their attendant upkeep) that no longer serve us in our daily lives.
(Note: Our stuff has changed a great deal since those early days as well. Back then, everything was biodegradable and disappeared rather quickly so that clutter buildup was less of an issue. Much of our stuff now will outlive us.)
In addition, we now live in a world that is based on consumerism, so there's a good deal of advertising that still wants us to stock up and buy new stuff, so it's really hard not to end up bogged down by a certain amount of clutter.
We're all much better at shopping than un-shopping.
The secret to dealing with clutter and changing your life is to realize that 1) you don't need as much stuff (you are no longer a Caveman, after all), and 2) that by having less you are opening your life up, lightening it and creating an environment that will allow you to flourish and reach your greatest potential. It's not just about letting go, it's about realizing how much more life you can have.
One of my greatest sources of inspiration is Karen Kingston, who wrote Creating Sacred Space with Feng Shui. She helped me see something as simple as collecting books (a great source of clutter) totally differently. While books are great resources and markers of of experience, we all tend to hold on to more than we actually use. And many of us hold on tightly! In order to declutter them, we need to realize that books are collections of memories and OLD THOUGHTS, not new ones. As she says, "Holding onto old books doesn't allow you to create space for new ideas and ways of thinking to come into your life."
I would even take this further. Holding onto ANYTHING that doesn't have a working role in your home won't allow you to create new space for ANYTHING new to come into your life — things, jobs, people, opportunities, etc. Even as we bring new things in, we need to bring old things out. In this way, we ensure a vital life flow in our lives.
So, the secret to decluttering is to create a pleasing and efficient organizing system for each of your areas (clothes, shoes, books, cookware, etc) and then never allowing them to fill up. You always want to leave at least 10% empty space. That's your space for newness to come into your life.
Which means that depending on how big an accumulator you are, you'll need to declutter more or less often. To help you in this, I heartily recommend establishing an Outbox, which you use to provide a halfway house for those things you are considering letting go of.
The Outbox is your ally as you declutter. It works because it uses a two-step process that allows you to figure out if you need something without having to decide what to do with it immediately.
Most clutter clearers will tell you to sort through your belongings and move a certain amount to the garbage, to recycling, or to the giveaway pile. This is a first generation clutter-clearing approach. It focuses mainly on identifying clutter that will immediately be taken away. The problem with first-generation thinking is that it doesn't take into account that there are really TWO problems: how to sort out the clutter and how to detach from it. I've found that separation anxiety is by far the biggest problem.
When faced with the two anxiety-provoking decisions — where something should go (its value to the world) and whether one can separate from it (its value to me) — most people get stuck and simply hold on to things as a default. Second-generation clutter management unhitches these two decisions. It deals with separation first and decides how and where to get clutter out of your home later.
Choose a space that is clearly defined. This area should be out of the way of daily activities and be a place you can comfortably allow to get messy and chaotic for a short while. A closet or guest room is perfect for this, but any small area or corner near your front door will do. Designate this your Outbox. The Outbox is not garbage, nor does it need to be an actual box; it is a halfway house where things sit while their fate is being decided. You should never be afraid to put something in the Outbox.
Once an item has sat in the Outbox for some time, it releases its hold over the owner and becomes just and ordinary object that one can easily decide what to do with. One client compared it to the phenomenon children experience when they fall in love with a rock that is wet or under water. Later, when the rock has dried off and is no longer shiny, it becomes just a plain old rock again and the child's attachment to is suddenly lessens.
As simple as it is, the Outbox has proven to be extremely successful in allowing people to clear out and heal their homes efficiently on a regular basis.
1. Anything can go in the Outbox
2. The Outbox is allowed to get messy
3. Everything must stay in the Outbox for at least one week
4. After that time you have several choices
a. Take anything back out
b. Leave anything you are undecided about for one more week
c. Dispose of the rest by moving to the garbage, recycling bin, or giveaway pile
Once you get used to separating first and disposing of later, you'll find that clearing clutter gets easier and easier.
Go for it.
(All ideas drawn from the original Apartment Therapy: The Eight-Step Home Cure. All Pics from The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces)
Re-edited from a post originally published 10.20.10 – JL


text:
Something new/different.
Over the past couple of days, several people had shot me notes about the meteor shower last night. So, after everyone was in bed and the Earth had quieted, I stepped out into the darkness of my back yard with my D300, a tripod, and a wireless remote (and a red-lensed flashlight). ZIP! A falling star streaked down toward the horizon near the Big Dipper. zip. A short streak towards Orion's belt. I was in the right location. I set up and started capturing 30s frames of the sky.
Although I saw nearly 20 falling stars in the 45 minutes I was out beneath the wonderful night sky, not one falling star appeared on film. The night was not a loss, though; I saw falling stars galore and I captured some nice imagery.
I suggest clicking on each photo to see the stars and details.
I shot, shot, and shot. And then I pointed the camera at another location around the Geminids. I took a break from the Geminids to capture Orion, Taurus, Jupiter, and the Pleiades.
My impression: Falling stars are more difficult to capture than lightning.
And as my resolve waned, the cold began penetrating my layers as the clouds seemed to simultaneously roll in from both the East and West. It was time to wrap it up for the evening.
Perhaps there will be another opportunity tonight. . .
More information on this event is available here: http://www.space.com/18887-geminid-meteor-shower-peak-preview.html


text:
I am having so much fun with these dies...disco music plays in my head as I cut them out :)
I used the Whispers Retro Disco Ball for this card. I cut it out first in Core Couture paper from Core-dinations and then black craft foam for dimension.
The Whispers Retro Dancers adorn this card. I found the papers in my stash...possibly old DCWV? They had the retro feel I was looking for. Disco is from the Whispers Retro Disco Ball die.
I just had to share this picture of the sunset a few days ago...the colors were so vibrant!! Thanks so much for stopping by!! Have a great day :)


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Mendenhall reporedly out for playoffs
The Pittsburgh Steelers journey through the playoffs won't include running back Rashard Mendenhall.
A person familiar with the injury told The Associated Press that Mendenhall has a torn ACL in his right knee and is out for the entire postseason. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not made an official announcement about Mendenhall's status.
The severity of the injury was first reported by ESPN.com and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Mendenhall hurt the knee while being tackled late in the first quarter of Sunday's 13-9 victory over Cleveland. He did not return and coach Mike Tomlin said after the game the injury was "not good." Mendenhall will have surgery before the end of January.
Second-year back Isaac Redman and rookie John Clay will fill in when the Steelers face Denver in the AFC Wild Card on Sunday.
Source: Yardbarker: Pittsburgh Steelers
Discuss this article and more at our Pittsburgh Steelers forum


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Wednesday, February 27, 2013
We're Hiring!
We are looking for part time / full time waiters and waitresses.
If you are excellent with people and can handle ordering, queries, reservations, carrying plates, clearing plates, cleaning up tables, setting up tables, moving tables, moving around tight spaces, moving like jagger, charming guests with your wit and still smile after a long hard day, please do give us a call. :)
Disabled/ disadvantaged or elder folk who are able to work are also welcome to apply.
If you don't want to work but just want to eat, then please help spread this post around. :)
Posted by The Hungry Hog at 11:40 PM No comments:
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one topic that i've been posting about lately has been the increasingly apparent connection between male inadequacy and violence against women, girls and 'girly' Others. (see joe francis, the soldiers in iraq who killed an iraqi girl and members of her family, and the Amish schoolhouse killer; now we can also add the V-Tech shooter.) herbert makes a fine argument:
More than four decades later we still profess to be baffled at the periodic eruption of murderous violence in places we perceive as safe havens. We look on aghast, as if the devil himself had appeared from out of nowhere. This time it was 32 innocents slaughtered on the campus of Virginia Tech. How could it have happened? We behave as if it was all so inexplicable.
But a close look at the patterns of murderous violence in the U.S. reveals some remarkable consistencies, wherever the individual atrocities may have occurred. In case after case, decade after decade, the killers have been shown to be young men riddled with shame and humiliation, often bitterly misogynistic and homophobic, who have decided that the way to assert their faltering sense of manhood and get the respect they have been denied is to go out and shoot somebody.
Dr. James Gilligan, who has spent many years studying violence as a prison psychiatrist in Massachusetts, and as a professor at Harvard and now at N.Y.U., believes that some debilitating combination of misogyny and homophobia is a "central component" in much, if not most, of the worst forms of violence in this country.
"What I've concluded from decades of working with murderers and rapists and every kind of violent criminal," he said, "is that an underlying factor that is virtually always present to one degree or another is a feeling that one has to prove one's manhood, and that the way to do that, to gain the respect that has been lost, is to commit a violent act."
it makes me think about the imus firing, the conversations about racist and misogynist language in popular culture, the movies of quentin tarantino/robert rodriquez (and the Rapist No. 1 action figure that makes me go 'gick') and how all of these things are connected.
and once i'm home, i'll write more about it.


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The Hallelujah Chorus And Beyond
Contributed by Larry Wolfe on Jun 26, 2009 (message contributor)
Summary: Heaven's response to the judgment of the Great Whore, the Marriage of the Lamb, the Marriage Supper, the Coming of the Lord/Armageddon
Title: "The Hallelujah Chorus and Beyond"
Theme: The Ending of the Day of the Lord
Text: "And after these things…" (Revelation 19:1, 2)
I. John heard the Sounds and saw the Sights of Great Heavenly Praise and Worship (v.1-10)
A. Great voice [sound] of Much People in Heaven
1. Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power, unto the Lord our God
2. For true and righteous are His judgments
3. For He has judged the Great Whore which did corrupt the earth with Her fornication
4. And has avenged the blood of His Servants at Her hand
5. And again they said, Alleluia and Her smoke rose up for ever and ever
B. And the Four and Twenty Elders and the Four Beasts
1. Fell down and worshipped God
2. That sat on the throne
3. Saying, Amen; Alleluia
C. And a voice came out of the Throne saying: Praise our God
1. All ye His Servants
2. And ye that fear Him both small and great
D. And I heard as it were the voice [sound] of A Great Multitude/Many Waters/Mighty Thunderings
1. Saying, Alleluia
2. For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns
3. Let us be glad and rejoice and give honor to Him
4. For the Marriage of the Lamb is come
5. And His wife has made herself ready
E. And he [the angel 17:1] said unto me, Write:
1. Blessed are they which are called unto the Marriage Supper of the Lamb
2. These are the true sayings of God
3. And I fell at his feet to worship him…worship God:
For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy [Key verse in the Revelation]
II. And I saw heaven opened and behold a white horse and He that sat upon him was called
A Faithful and True [Man of War]
1. And in righteousness
2. He does judge and make war
3. His eyes were as a flame of fire
4. On His head were many crowns [diadems]
5. He had a name written , that no man knew, but He Himself
6. He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood
7. His name is called the Word of God
8. And the armies in heaven followed Him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen white and clean
B. Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword
1. That with it He should smite the nations
2. And He shall rule them with a rod of iron
3. And He treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
C. And He has on His vesture and on His thigh a name written
III. And I saw and angel standing in the sun
A. And he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven
B. Come and gather yourselves together unto the Supper of the Great God
C. That ye may eat the flesh of kings/captains/mighty men/horses/them that sit on them/all men…
IV. And I saw the beast [Antichrist] and the kings of the earth and their armies
A. Gathered together to make war against Him that sat on the horse , and against His army
B. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet…
C. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone
D. And the remnant [rest] were slain with the sword of Him that sat upon the horse…
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Esch, M.B.; Sukhorukov, V.L.; Kürschner, M.; Zimmermann, U. "Dielectric Properties of Alginate Beads and Bound Water Relaxation Studied by Electrorotation" Biopolymers, 1999, 50, 227-237
The association of water with polysaccharides is the basis for the survival of cells within hydrogels. Hydrogel-encapsulated cells are important because they could replace native cells that have experienced a loss of function, for example insensitivity to insulin-needs of the body. Here we proved experimentally that water is bound non-covalently to hydrogels. To prove this, we used four microelectrodes to create a rotating electric field in which we placed 400 micrometer large alginate beads. We measured how fast the beads rotated in fields of varying frequency and in medium of varying conductivity. A broad internal dispersion of the hydrogel centered between 20 and 40 MHz. We attribute this dispersion to the relaxation of water bound to the polysaccharide matrix of the beads.


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I said last week that we would all start getting spring fever and today I talked to a lady that already has lettuce, radishes and onions planted. I do not have anything in the garden, but we do have our tomato plants started. Just think fresh tomatoes, what could be better? Well, in reality lots of things, but they do sound pretty good.
We had a good week at church. Several people at church this week, some we hadn't seen in a while. We certainly hope they come back to see us. Our special songs were short and I guess sweet. We only had one.
Donald started his sermon out talking about a coffee cup at a restaurant. He said if you turn it over, the waitress will automatically fill it up. We sing a song about "Fill My Cup Lord" but He can't fill it up if we don't turn it over and lift it up. We have to do our part, and then God will fill our cup, and He will fill it to over flowing with blessings.
Sunday night was our youth night. Jon brought the movie, Facing The Giants;" if you haven't seen this movie it is worth watching. I heard Donald say that was worth preaching. Not just once, but several times during this show. It was about a coach who helped his football team come to know God and how He could help in all parts of their lives. He kept asking them what is impossible with God and they always answered, nothing coach. We need a few more coaches like that in our schools and athletic programs. More important we need a society that allows teachers and coaches to talk about God with our young people in school.
I watched my two youngest grandkids play soccer Saturday morning. It is so fun to watch these kids get out there and start learning a sport. I can't wait until it gets warm enough so we can all get outside and enjoy this wonderful world God gave us to enjoy.
That's all I have for this week. Remember as you go about your day lift your cup up and ask God to fill it up with all the blessing it can hold. Until next week, take care and God bless you.


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Research Paper on Child Abuse
Child abuse is a basic issue which needs to be discussed in great depth with right dimension. Child abuse can not be distinguished on the basis of age, sex, race or religion. Any children for any reason can be victimized at any time. Today parents and children are facing this problem. The fear is some one intentionally or unintentionally is hurting the child by some or other way. This person can be any one among the whole lot of social groups. He/she may be from the family, friends, neighbors, teacher or any one else.
There are many key factors that have initiated the writing the research paper on child abuse. People today are not financially established. They force their children to earn from the toy playing age. Here child in his innocence become the victim of child abuse very easily….


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Jeff Jarrett posted the following on Twitter today, noting that he will be part of a sitdown interview on Impact tomorrow night…
Tomorrow I sit down with @RealMikeTenay and discuss the future of @GFWWrestling working with @IMPACTWRESTLING on @DestAmerica !
— Jeff Jarrett (@RealJeffJarrett) June 30, 2015
100% DIRECT LINK (PHOTOS): All **NEW BIKINI-BOOTY SHOTS** Of Selena Gomez! OMFG!! >>


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With only one day left to file for office in Pierce County, 10 cities and towns had no competitive races as of Thursday afternoon.
University Place, Sumner, Fife and Fircrest still had only one candidate file for each office up for election later this year. The same held true for the smaller municipalities of Buckley, Eatonville, Roy, Ruston, South Prairie and Wilkeson.
Similarly, each of the two open seats on Pierce County Superior Court has had only one filing all week.
In other highlights from Day 4 of filing week:
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• The Tacoma City Council District 3 race got more interesting, as two more candidates entered a crowded field that has now reached five. Whitney Brady, a Hilltop resident who works for State Farm Insurance, filed Thursday along with Tom McCarthy, a humanities and English composition teacher at Pierce College. Brady, McCarthy, Justin Leighton, Kris Blondin and Keith Blocker will all square off in the August primary election.
• Lakewood finally attracted a competitive race on Thursday, as Michael J. Petan filed to run against incumbent Marie Barth.
• All four available City Council seats in Puyallup are now contested. The incumbents in Districts 2 and 3 and the at-large seat all have challengers. District 1 also has fielded a pair of candidates, although incumbent John Knutsen has not filed. Knutsen, who also serves as appointed mayor, has said he doesn't plan to run for reelection.
A total of 275 people had filed as of Thursday for some of the more than 200 local offices up for election this year on city and town councils; school, fire, parks and recreation, and water district boards; the Superior Court bench; and the Port of Tacoma commission. To see all the candidates as of Thursday evening, click here. To file for office, click here.
Filing week closes at 4:30 p.m. Friday.


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Flipping through my Real Simple magazine the other day, I came across a delicious-looking recipe for Asian pork burgers. We don't make burgers all that often since we try to eat pretty healthy, and turkey burgers often are kind of a letdown, so I liked the idea of trying pork. Somewhat in between beef and turkey on the healthy scale, we made these with a side of grilled corn and salad to balance out the meal.
Overall, I was super impressed! With only a few ingredients, these burgers were tender, flavorful, and completely satisfying. Also, we bought a pound of ground pork, which made four patties for us. I froze two of them, so we will definitely be enjoying them again soon!
Asian Pork Burgers
recipe courtesy of Real Simple
1 lb ground pork
2 tbs Sriracha
2 tbs soy sauce
2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
1-2 green onions, diced
Ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup ketchup
1-2 tbs Sriracha
Combine the pork, 2 tbs Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic, green onions, and ground black pepper.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Form into four patties. To keep them from puffing up in the middle while cooking, use your thumb to create a small divot in the center of the patty.
Grill until cooked through.
Mix together ketchup and remaining Sriracha to create a spicy sweet sauce. Slather on pork burger, and top with your favorite burger toppings.


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That's four pounds down from last week.
I worked really hard this week
I worked out every single day
{Some days TWICE a day}
I swear I've done enough squats and lunges I thought my legs would fall off
The constant fatigue in my body is something I'm starting to enjoy
It's a proud feeling...
I fell great, I have tons of energy.
It's awesome to finally feel good.
Really good.
I've worked for it.
It's so important to focus on the small victories, daily, hourly, hell minute by minute it's tough to loose weight, it's tough to make the right decisions with food, and find the motivation to exercise...but if you do everything right
I've made a decision this week...Kind of a big one. One of my girlfriends was over the other day, she's been eating vegan for a month and has lost twelve pounds! Her mid-section is insanely smaller, she says her energy is up, she sleeps better, her period is shorter, and her cramps...what cramps!?!
Dairy is bad news everywhere you look. Almost half of the calories in whole milk come from fat, and nearly all of its carbohydrates come from sugar. When it comes to your
Here are a few pictures I found of women who went vegan {no dairy-no meat}...after just a few short weeks, their bodies are completely transformed! Their results really just make me want to give it a month or two...try it out see how it goes.
That is AMAZING
Now I'm not going to go all crazy, throw away all my leather shoes
I am simply cutting out most dairy and meat products, particularly red meat, for the next 6 weeks. I'm still going to be drinking my whey protein, even though it is a milk based product, I'm still going to eat eggs, and I'm still going to eat chicken {I barely eat it as it is, but sometimes I like it on my salads}. I'm going to also be changing Addy girl's diet. We are going to basically still eat all the soy versions of milk based products...butter, yogurt, almond milk, cheese, sour cream. You would be so surprised how little you actually have to give up to make this change. I don't know yet if this will be a permanent thing for us LaPoint girls. I have a feeling we will end this little trial feeling much better


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HTC Titan II is a crap... it is costly for a crap phone, its so obvious that Nokia Lumia 900 is the best device here and not only that it has won the best smartphone device of CES 2012.
HTC Titan I is a fail and same goes to its successor.
The 16Mp camera is the worst 16MP camera ever, pure marketing gimmick. Nokia has the best hardware, durability, design and best lifetime navigation sat-nav.
Dave, 08 Apr 2012Ha Titan 2 is far better phone than any Nokia!LOL!! really??
I don't like nokia .i like only samsung . I m waiting r s 3 . I love galaxy
Now Nokia, please release it in the Philippines. We're getting reeaally impatient...


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This blog was inspired by a class I took at USF. It was called Modern Florida and was taught by Dr. Benowitz. I enjoyed the class a lot and thought that Florida has been underrepresented in the history department. So Dr. Benowitz if you ever read this blog, thanks for the idea.
I am a USF graduate with a B.A. in History.


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READ Famous Film Actors From Spokane
7k views 67 items
List of famous movie actors & actresses who were born in Spokane, listed alphabetically with photos when available. Some of these celebrities weren't necessarily born in Spokane, as in some cases Spokane may only be their hometown and not necessarily their birthplace. If you're from Spokane then your city's claim to fame might be that the actors and actresses listed below are from there as well. There may be a lot of famous athletes, musicians and other famous people that were born in Spokane, but this list highlights only names of actors and actresses.
List includes Craig T. Nelson, Ryne Sandberg and more.This list answers the questions, "Which actors are from Spokane?" and "Which famous actors were born in Spokane?"


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Monday, December 31, 2012
Gerry Anderson: Ahead of His Time
This is the BBC's obituary on Gerry. And you might consider purchasing the whole UFO series, which is available on DVD. It really was ahead of its time.
Posted by Solameanie at 10:47 AM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: BBC, Gerry Anderson, Joel Griffith, Solameanie, UFO
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Book Review: "God's Wisdom in Proverbs"
Pastor Dan Phillips Mines the Motherlode and Strikes Gold
This review has been a long time in coming. Too long, really. Dan's book has been out for some time, and I've only now been able to get to reading it. It's been more than worth the wait, and the time spent with "God's Wisdom in Proverbs" has been time well spent.
Last January, I reviewed Dan's first book, "The World Tilting Gospel." When he mentioned his second book on Proverbs, he said that it would be a "slower" read and would require more time for study of Scripture along with the book, and pondering. This proved to be true, but it's a good kind of "slower" read, and is not dull by any means. I have seen various attempts to deal with Proverbs, but in my mind, this is one of the best approaches and best treatments of Solomon's wisdom that I have seen.
The key reason I make that assessment is because it strikes a very keen balance between two reading audiences. It is a book that will profit both the trained Bible scholar and the layperson. For the scholar, Dan frequently references the original Hebrew and digs deeply into the intended meanings of words and phrases—key in understanding the intent of Solomon and the other contributors to Proverbs. But Dan's writing and manner of explaining the biblical text is very user-friendly, accessible for the non-scholar, and is a tremendous resource for anyone who wants to mine this portion of God's Word for very rich treasure—the motherlode of His wisdom.
The book begins by laying out the groundwork for studying Proverbs, looking at the difference between Hebrew poetry and our more Western model. Proverbs is in the portion of Scripture known as "wisdom literature," and Proverbs is an assembled book of wisdom—wisdom from God given to the wisest man in human history (by the gift of God Himself). Dan also helpfully (and cleverly) describes what a proverb is— a "saying, not a dissertation . . . or an adage without "paddage." Definition: "A proverb is a compressed statement of wisdom, artfully crafted to be striking, thought-provoking, memorable, and practical." They are designed for "lean economy of expression." In a proverb, "the language is stripped down to its essentials for maximum impact and memorability." Dan illustrates this as follows:
This quality of terseness is both the genius and the challenge of Hebrew poetry. It is effective in the way the imagery or thought is embedded on the mind. But one feels the challenge in interpretation, as the writer expects the reader to use his familiarity with the imagery, and his imagination, to fill in the gaps. The challenge is particularly keen to twenty-first century English-speaking urbanites, who find the writer's terms tough to translate, and his imagery removed from our daily experience.
It can indeed be tough, but as Dan shows over the course of the book, far from impossible, and very profitable to make the effort to "get it."
I'd like to highlight a couple of key passages in "God's Wisdom in Proverbs" that really grabbed me. While there are many such passages in a rich study like this, I find these two passages hitting the bullseye in the attitudes prevalent in this world (and even in the church) that hold many back from finding the motherlode within God's Word ourselves.
In Chapter 5—"Relating to God by Trust and Worship"—Dan makes the point that human arrogance and pride stand in the way of understanding even simple matters from GOD'S point of view. Proverbs are very simple for understanding's sake, yet very, very deep. Stepping out of Proverbs for a moment and going into Psalm 119, Dan exposes a foundational fault in today's culture. (I am sorely tempted to make an Emergent Church dig here, but will restrain myself). He points out Psalm 119:21 and then verse 85. Both speak of human arrogance and the folly of wandering from the revealed Word of God. It's the opposite of TRUST in God. Albeit I'm abridging a little, I'll let Dan speak for himself:
First, note verse 21: — "You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones, who wander from your commandments." Accordingly, the essence of arrogance is not (as the postmodern would have it) the claim to know anything with certainty. Rather, arrogance is exposed as the refusal to bow the knee to God's Word. Next, we turn to Psalm 199:85—"The insolent have dug pitfalls for me; they do not live according to Your law."
What is arrogance, then? In God's eyes, there simply is no greater arrogance than rejecting Yahweh's viewpoint in favor of my own. It is grimly fascinating that some Christians abhor the believer who dares to think he or she knows something from the Word. To such folks, claiming certainty on any given issue is the height of arrogance. They are certain that certainty is bad. By contrast, it is the height of arrogance to have a word from God and refuse to trust it by incorporating it into our way of thinking and living.
Dan then compares this attitude to two fundamental sins—that of the Serpent in Genesis 3, beginning with questioning whether God said something, followed quickly by denial, and then to exalt one's own judgment over that of God's. As Dan puts it, "arrogance posing as humility" and "arrogance posing as open-mindedness."
Are you hearing the crack of the rifle and the bullet hitting the exploding target? Dan then (as Solomon often does in Proverbs) contrasts this attitude with the heart-attitude and mindset of the faithful, quoting "The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe" (Proverbs 29:25). Trusting in the Lord (and in His revealed Word) has benefits and positive consequences.
The second passage that gripped me was in Chapter 8 - "Skill in Godly Child Training." How does the wise and discerning child (and really, adult believer) respond to God's correction? This paragraph succinctly nails the absolute necessity of our proper response—in faith and trust—to God's Word:
Parental training is not magic or automatically effective, any more than Biblical preaching is magically powerful. In a Bible-teaching fellowship, one is at least exposed to the teaching of the Word on a regular basis. However, simply sitting and allowing one's eardrums to vibrate to the proclaimed Word makes no difference unless we take what we hear to heart in faith [cf. Heb 4:2 NAS, NIV; and James 1:22-27] (emphasis mine).
Dan then quotes a key proverb . . . A dense man spurns the discipline of his father, but he who keeps reproof acts shrewdly (Proverbs 15:5). I have seen many, many instances of this throughout my Christian life, and am again seeing it currently in the lives of a beloved Christian family whom I know. A Christian family that attended church, was involved in ministry, yet the home broke apart and some of the teen and young adult children went wayward. As Dan puts it, "the dense son "shines it on," as the kids used to say. He rejects it. What sets the wise son apart from the dense son is that he keeps instruction; he hangs on to it, he takes it to heart and makes it his own."
The ultimate goal of any parent or caregiver, as far as training in righteousness is concerned, is that the child takes the godly precepts taught (and hopefully lived out in the parents' lives without hypocrisy), and MAKES THEM HIS/HER OWN. They become the child's OWN precepts and standards, not merely ones imposed from the outside. And this also applies to adults. We can mouth all the Scriptures we like, and mouth them self-righteously to other people. But the proof is in the pudding, and people see the reality of our faith if they see the Scriptures we quote actually lived out in our lives.
In the end, all the clever fads and ideas won't cut it. The church-growth programs won't cut it. Seminars won't cut it. The slickest preacher with the most entertaining platform style won't cut it. What cuts it is hearing, believing and living the Word of God. The Holy Spirit works through His Word, and through His obedient people.
There is much more to "God's Wisdom in Proverbs," but my hope is that you will buy, read and absorb the book. I don't want to give away all the candy on the floor. Some might think the book may be too deep for a Sunday school class, but I disagree. This book could and should be used for Sunday school. And I need to reiterate something I said before when reviewing Dan's "The World Tilting Gospel," I said that I rarely make recommendations for Sunday school material other than the Bible. In general, we use way too many "curricula" and materials other than Scripture, and we have a generation in the church that is biblically illiterate as a result.
Dan's "God's Wisdom in Proverbs" is NOT that. It is intended to be used with God's Word firmly in hand. I recommend it highly. You won't regret the time to read it.
Posted by Solameanie at 8:54 AM 2 comments: Links to this post
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
A Christmas Reflection
But this time, I had something a bit different in mind. This Christmas, I have fractured families and fractured friendships in mind. For many families—especially most true Christian families—the Christmas holidays are times of joy, not only focused on the Savior, but also on the joy of family. I won't say non-Christian families don't have joyous family get-togethers on Christmas, but knowing the Lord Jesus as Savior and having the Holy Spirit indwelling makes an enormous difference in not only appreciating Christmas, but also each other.
Yet for others, Christmas can be a lonely, miserable time. Families getting together by all means, but some in the family look forward to the event about as much as they'd look forward to a root canal without Lidocaine. Some are impacted by death in the family, and the Christmas table looks empty without the loved one being there. In some families, the fact that some are Christians and some are not also creates some tension. You have the get together, and there will be the obnoxious family member who has to pass gas or say something crude in the middle of your before-dinner prayer, or start a quarrel. You know what I mean. You know the type.
Even professed Christian families are not immune to problems. I know of one family in ministry that has completely fallen apart at the seams, and no doubt this Christmas is filled with sorrow—at least to those whose consciences have not yet been completely seared by rebellion. I won't go into details, but it is heartbreaking to me. I've suffered to some extent in their issues, and have lost relationship with the children, some of whom are living lives of rebellion and are clueless that anything is the matter with their behavior.
Depicting the last days, the Scriptures paint a very sad picture of what can happen in a family when Christ is not the center of it. I often wonder if these days aren't nearer than we think . . .
When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but it is the Holy Spirit. Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by all because of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he will be saved (Mark 13:11-13).
Sad and grim indeed. Probably not most cheerful Christmas post you've ever read. But I do think it is worth pondering in the midst of the presents, the food, the television and its rather perverted depictions of "Christmas normalcy," etc. A lot of hoo-hah to swim through to try and find once again the reason for this Season.
So I would urge all of us to pause, reflect, and remember. If you aren't a genuine believer who has repented of your sins and given your heart to the Lord, don't waste any more time. Do it now. You might not have the time left you think you do. You might not even greet the New Year. Make things right with God.
For Christian families—truly Christian ones—I would urge you to remember again what this day is supposed to be about. Remember to love one another, and live to love one another. Don't hurt the ones you love, because you won't have them forever. Honor Christ, the center of Christmas, not just now, but all year long.
May you all have a most blessed Christmas. Christ is born, and is coming again. Soon.
Posted by Solameanie at 10:30 AM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: Christmas, Dysfunctional Families, Joel Griffith, Rebellion, Solameanie
Friday, December 21, 2012
Demonizing the NRA
I hope to put up a Christmas-themed post before Christmas, but in the wake of the NRA news conference today, I thought I should make some comment about it. Heaven knows, the rabid left and their media acolytes will.
You'll notice I used a drawn picture of an "average family." Why? Glad you asked!
NRA executive vice president Wayne LaPierre made many excellent points and observations in his press statement. He didn't take questions, probably smart given the hostility of the media to the 120+year-old organization and our constitutional right to keep and bear arms. I read the Reuters account of the presser, and had to chuckle because of their inaccuracy on several counts. They called the NRA "press shy," which is laughable. The NRA usually has a tough time getting its message out via the "mainstream" media because everyone has to filter out the bias of the reporters and editorializing over the top of their statements. Two protesters stood up and began screaming in the midst of LaPierre's remarks and had to be forcibly removed. True to form, instead of addressing the FACTS that LaPierre was giving in his presser, they insisted "How do you answer these protests?" I guess they weren't listening to what Wayne was saying.
From the media to politicians to activists, the NRA is a favorite whipping boy today. They demonize the organization and its leadership as if they were personally responsible for Connecticut, Colorado, or any other atrocity committed with a firearm. Ridiculous of course, but to the propagandists that love to wave bloody shirts to guilt-trip people into accepting their demands for social-ill solutions, who cares if it's ridiculous and untrue.
Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill no less pretty much said the same thing when she in essence told the NRA to stick it, and demanding that it "come out of hiding." Pretty stupid and risky from a rural, gun-owning state like Missouri. The NRA has been training police, military, etc. for decades as far as safety issues, and has spoken out repeatedly on punishing perpetrators of violence and gun crimes. But no, McCaskill wanted to wave the bloody shirt because she thought she smelled a chance to kick an opponent in the groin.
Now let me make MY point. McCaskill, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and NY Senator Chuckie Schumer, President Barack Obama, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, etc. all miss a very vital point. The NRA is not a nameless, faceless organization. The NRA is made up of law-abiding, patriotic men, women and yes, teens and children. People like me and maybe people like you. Four million members across the United States. And now, there will be likely more as the zealots mentioned above and others will do their best to take advantage of this situation, and impose nonsensical gun legislation that will violate MY (and YOUR) Second Amendment rights. I am the NRA. And when you insult the NRA, you insult me. A voter and a taxpayer, to whom this issue is vitally important. Don't try guilt-tripping me. Non causa pro causa. It won't work, and I'm getting tired of it.
It's been said before, and it must be said again. The Second Amendment was not put into the Constitution to protect hunters. It was put into the Constitution so the American people would always have the means to defend itself from a government gone tyrannical. And don't think it can't happen here. It can. I'll never forget the late Senator Ted Kennedy, beet-red in the face and at his bloviating, huff-puffing best, overdoing his "outrage" at such a notion when this was pointed out in a Congressional hearing. "OUR government?!? Tyrannical? OUR government?!?"
Yes, Ted. OUR government, if it ever gets into the hands of thoroughly evil men and women. We have enough now in power who hate our country's noble history. They're enamored of Europe, Asia and Latin America, where totalitarian regimes don't have to pay attention to us—the great unwashed. They'd love a system where they could rule by fiat and do what they want, no matter how we the people feel about it.
We have enough people originally from outside this country (such as the despicable George Soros) who do not value its history or understand what the American Revolution was all about, who are now in this country as citizens, trying to radically make this nation into something the Founders never would countenance.
We believe in freedom, and in holding on to the things given to us by the Founders to help us maintain that freedom. We believe in law and order, and decency. We are also not misty-eyed idiots who refuse to recognize the true, fallen nature of man that needs restraint, idiots who think the government could NEVER do anything wrong, or would EVER trample on our basic rights.
I believe in freedom, and I'm getting tired of those who want to take mine away. I don't think I'm alone in that feeling, either. Votes count, and this man will be watching and voting in every local, state and federal election. I will only vote for those who will hold to our Founding Principles. It's time we sent that message loud and clear, and it's time we refuse to fall for the false guilt that zealots are trying to foist on us.
Are you with me?
Posted by Solameanie at 1:14 PM 1 comment: Links to this post
Labels: Gun control, Joel Griffith, National Rifle Association, NRA, Second Amendment, Solameanie, Wayne LaPierre
Monday, December 17, 2012
Guns, Violence, Freedom and Demagoguery
Joel's Note: The following is polemic. It is not intended as a footnoted, researched position paper with documentation etc. This is written from the heart from a lifetime of watching the way "public discourse" happens. You may not agree with me and may challenge my conclusions, opinions, etc. And that's fine. But this is how I feel on a very painful issue. And there are much larger issues at stake rather than the immediate crisis. Nothing in this is intended as insensitivity to the many who have lost children and loved ones in Connecticut, or in any other mad, murderous rampage. But as bad as these things are, the loss of freedom is much, much worse. We can't see it as Americans. We've never known it. But other people from around the world where tyranny reigns know it all too well. We need to listen to their voices while we consider our own fate as a nation.
This fall and early winter have been days that I'd rather forget for many reasons. Personal health has been an adventure, with three kidney lithotripsy procedures since April. Then a touch of pneumonia. And we have to begin the Christmas holiday season with a senseless, evil mass shooting and murder of little schoolchildren in Connecticut.
I hoped (vainly) that people might hold off on the politics of gun control vs. firearm freedom and the Second Amendment to give people a chance to mourn the dead, but to the radical left activists with whom gun control is a sacrament right up there with abortion, no such deal. The demagoguery began before the children's bodies had even been moved out of the school.
I chose the famous painting of abolitionist John Brown for a purpose. It vividly depicts the kind of possessed, self-righteous zeal so many one-issue activists have when dealing with a controversial issue. Do not read into that statement (and some devious, malevolent-minded might try to tar me with such a suggestion) that I disagree with ending of slavery. I do not. Slavery needed to end, and African-Americans deserved (and deserve) to have the full measure of civil and human rights. Because they are human beings and of "one blood" (Acts 17:26) with me—Caucasian though I am. A tragedy indeed that it took a Civil War and 500,000 plus deaths to bring that result to pass, and even then, it took until the 1960s to get rid of Jim Crow laws etc. that gave blacks the rights that were rightfully theirs. But we got there. Our Constitutional system eventually worked as it should as hearts and minds were changed.
But the John Brown types scare us. And they should, because they have no compunction on bringing down the whole house if they think it will advance their cause. The more dead? So be it. To the zealous, possessed activist who knows no other cause, nothing is too extreme to reach their goal. No other viewpoint than their own is acceptable. And anyone who doesn't exactly see it eye-to-eye is an automatic enemy, even if they have similar goals. The demagogues always manage to get the attention, and the more reasonable, level-headed get ignored because they're not as entertaining and motivating. The media love them. Can you imagine a John Brown in today's electronic media climate and 24 hour news cycle? Oh, mercy!
Sometimes we need folks like this to galvanize public attention, and sometimes, they can do good. But more often than not, they end up damaging the cause they hope to accomplish because the general public is turned off by their overheated rhetoric and violent tenor. Some abortion activists are another good example. I am pro-life and have been for years, and believe that abortion is only acceptable to save the life of the mother. But I believe hearts and minds must be changed, and the tactics of some of my fellow pro-life comrades are so offensive they accomplish the opposite result. Showing up with pictures of bloody babies with young children present who could be traumatized by such photos. Yelling and screaming "baby killer" at women or young teenagers. They really are not helping the cause, and the media has a field day taking this small minority of pro-life people and making them representative of the rest of us. It hurts the cause.
Now we have another school shooting. And I have posted to the left a picture of the wording of the Second Amendment. I believe some of the anti-gun zealots out there salivate over horrendous tragedies like Connecticut because it gives them fodder to be John Browns and argue an important issue fueled by emotion instead of fact and truth. Unfortunately for them, at least John Brown was ultimately right on the evil of slavery. Those who want to shred the Second Amendment and ban private ownership of firearms do not have that high moral ground on which to stand, no matter how much they try to demagogue and use the tragedy of mass shootings to propagandize people and try to get their way.
Whether these folks like it or not, the fact that crazies get hold of guns and commit mass murder does not justify tearing out a piece of our Constitution and taking away the right of self-defense (keeping and bearing arms) from a law-abiding public. Contrary to some of what these anti-gun zealots tell you, the Second Amendment was not put into the Constitution to protect the right to hunt. It was not intended by our Founders to only apply to the military or state National Guards. The founders viewed the "militia" as every able-bodied man, and the primary intent of protecting the right of people to keep and bear arms was for one primary purpose—for the people to protect themselves from an overreaching, potentially tyrannical government. The late Ted Kennedy had near apoplexy when someone pointed out that truth, but that's Ted's problem. It's the truth, and it still applies. Ideas and principles are not invalid simply because they are old. Some principles and ideas are timeless, and so it is with the Second Amendment. Our right to keep and bear arms is inviolable and unalienable, and necessary. ANY human government can cross the line into tyranny. Even in American history, the government has overreached from time to time, and had to be slapped back by the courts or other means to remind them that they are to serve the public, and the public are the masters, not the government.
The rabid anti-gun activists—folks like New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Senator Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, billionaire immigrant far-left activist George Soros, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel (and formerly, Mayor Daley)—find the Constitution a great hindrance to their goals. They were incensed when the Supreme Court recognized the Second Amendment to confer an individual right to keep and bear arms. But that won't stop them from trying to get their way through any means possible. President Obama has already indicated as much, Constitution be damned. And they wave the bloody shirts as an emotional bludgeon, hoping to guilt-trip and intimidate a grieving public into giving in and surrendering their rights. Their ultimate goal is not "reasonable restrictions" (Define "reasonable," by the way). Their true, ultimate goal is the total ban of weapons in private hands, no matter how much they lie and say that's not the case. Short of an outright ban, they hope to make exercise of the right to keep and bear arms as expensive and difficult as possible. They'll try ammo bans, bans on certain makes of weapons, taxes, and a host of other tricks. They will not give up until the majority of Americans who believe in their rights slap them down through the ballot box, and with their firm voices.
It is hard to make manifestos such as this at a time such as this. As Wall Street Journal columnist James Taranto and others have ably pointed out, decorum would normally hold off on politics until the dead are buried, and people have a chance to mourn. We'd rather not have to argue this (AGAIN) now. But the rabid anti-Second Amendment activist politicians and groups know and recognize no such decorum. "Never waste a good crisis" is their motto, and they see this as their time to strike. Nature abhors a vacuum. As much as we grieve the deaths of the children in Connecticut, the other side of this issue is taking every advantage to bang their drum and scream as loudly as possible. That necessitates that we speak up and defend our views just as forcefully.
Understand this if you don't understand anything else. Our Founding Fathers were wise beyond measure. You like the Bill of Rights? You like freedom of speech? Freedom of worship and religion? Freedom of assembly? Guess what? The Second Amendment is the GUARANTOR of those rights that were so hard won in the American Revolution. Ben Franklin told a woman once that the Founders had given us a Representative Republic, "if you can keep it." If we surrender on this issue, we are well on the way to not keeping the Republic intended for us.
There have always been slayings and murders in American history. Sometimes large numbers of people. America is not alone. They've happened in other countries where gun laws are very strict—Norway being a recent example. Evil people can find other ways to kill besides firearms. Timothy McVeigh used a truckload of fertilizer to make a bomb. Where there's a will, there's a way. The human heart is wicked without the intervention of God, and daily life proves the truth of that biblical statement.
And that's another accomplishment of the far left. They've managed to excise God out of many things in our public discourse, and they'd love removal of God entirely from everything. They'd love it if Christians would shut up and keep their faith behind church walls, and keep it out of public life. Our Founders would be infuriated at such a thing, but so it is today. And they have the gall to call it patriotic and in keeping with our Founding values. Nothing could be further from the truth.
If the Chinese people had the right to keep and bear arms, the Tiananmen Square massacre could have been stopped. If the Russian people had the right to keep and bear arms, Joseph Stalin's midnight purges could have been stopped. If the German people's right to keep and bear arms had not been ended by Adolf Hitler, the great evil of the Nazi regime might have been stopped before 6 million Jewish people died in the gas chambers.
Dr. John Lott's book, "More Guns, Less Crime," discuss some of these matters. There are many other resources available on this issue. Read up on it, and stand firm.
Our opponents will do all they can to bully us into submission. They'll yell. They'll scream. They'll abuse. They'll call names. They'll litigate and litigate. They'll introduce legislation over and over again, not taking the Supreme Court's no for an answer. These same folks who say they believe in the legal principle of "stare decisis" will suddenly say "not in this case." They'll try to replace Justices who will vote their way and reverse the 5-4 decision recognizing our Second Amendment rights. They might even try a United Nations treaty circumvention if they think they can get away with it. They'll call us ignorant. They'll call us hillrods and hicks. They'll try to say we're responsible for the death of every child. They're shameless.
And we need to steel ourselves against the full court press of the guilt trip. We need to reject the false guilt entirely and with vigor. We need to get right back in their faces and make it clear that they will be allowed to take NO ONE's rights away. In fact, we need to understand there is a difference between a right and a privilege. A privilege can be lawfully taken away. In the view of our Founders (and I agree), rights are GOD-GIVEN, unalienable, and CANNOT lawfully be taken away. There was even a huge debate at adoption of the Constitution over whether there should be a Bill of Rights. Those opposed viewed these rights as natural, and they were worried that codifying them in an actual Bill of Rights would lead to the government thinking down the road that they could abolish the rights if they saw fit. Their caution in these days is shown to be justified, because that's exactly what some of the zealots think. They think if they repeal the Second Amendment, that takes away our rights. It will not. We need to stand on that.
In conclusion, I'll be the first to agree that there ARE things that need to be done to reduce gun violence. We need to enforce the adequate gun laws ALREADY on the books. We need to prosecute gun criminals to the fullest extent of the law and execute murderers if they don't kill themselves first. A good first step would be for our idiot government not to pull stunts like Fast and Furious, which put assault weapons in the hands of drug gangs. It is believed that this plot ultimately was intended to be used as a fulcrum to leverage for tightening gun laws in violation of the Second Amendment. It backfired, and that's why the liberal media tries to sweep this scandal under the rug.
We need to get back to foundational morality in the country, and reject the leftist notion that God, faith, moral lessons etc. need to be removed because "such things have no business in the schools or in the public square." We need to recognize the impact of violent films and entertainment. We need to be much better at spotting potential problem children, teens and adults. We need to re-visit the ACLU-driven drive to de-institutionalize the mentally ill in the name of "human rights." Some folks have no business on the street, but they've made it next to impossible to institutionalize someone.
Well, I've ranted enough for one night. Since I have only made a handful of posts this month, this long one will give you plenty to read for a while. I'll try to have something more uplifting and edifying for Christmas.
Posted by Solameanie at 8:46 PM 1 comment: Links to this post
Labels: Connecticut School Shootings, Demagoguery, Gun control, Joel Griffith, Politics, Second Amendment, Solameanie
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Medical and Scientific "Consensus?"
In the meantime, I came across this commentary by Iowa surgeon Dr. Lee Hieb. Dr. Hieb is a practicing orthopedic surgeon, and in her commentary on the benefits of Vitamin D, she also paints a very disturbing picture on how official "consensus" could be helping to kill us.
This not only applies in the medical field, but we also see it in the overall scientific field these days, especially in "global warming" or so-called "climate change." The "consensus" on this really isn't a consensus, and quite a few meteorologists and scientists dispute the issue. But the politics are behind the official "consensus," and I strongly suspect the real motivation behind solutions to "climate change" aren't so much to impact the climate as they are to control people.
Regardless, very interesting article by Dr. Hieb. Tempted to go out and buy some Vitamin D!
Posted by Solameanie at 9:24 AM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: Dr. Lee Hieb, Health Care, Joel Griffith, Medicine, Science, Solameanie, Vitamins
Monday, December 10, 2012
Persecuted Atheists
little report about persecution of atheists around the world.
Now, don't get me wrong. I don't like or condone persecution of anyone for their beliefs, no matter how much I might disagree with them. However, given the current atheist war on Christianity here in the United States and elsewhere, I find this news report just a bit ironic. It was just in the news the other day (from Little Rock, Arkansas) that a performance of a Charlie Brown Christmas at a school is now cancelled because one atheist complained.
Interesting, isn't it? They're so bothered by something in which they claim not to believe. When I was in public school, I had to sit through classes where Eastern mysticism or other philosophies (even atheism) with which I disagreed were on the menu. I tolerated it. And why? Because here in America, we're supposed to have freedom. But the tolerance I extended isn't reciprocated these days. Freedom now means taking it away.
How Orwellian.
Now, don't get me wrong. I don't like or condone persecution of anyone for their beliefs, no matter how much I might disagree with them. However, given the current atheist war on Christianity here in the United States and elsewhere, I find this news report just a bit ironic. It was just in the news the other day (from Little Rock, Arkansas) that a performance of a Charlie Brown Christmas at a school is now cancelled because one atheist complained.
Interesting, isn't it? They're so bothered by something in which they claim not to believe. When I was in public school, I had to sit through classes where Eastern mysticism or other philosophies (even atheism) with which I disagreed were on the menu. I tolerated it. And why? Because here in America, we're supposed to have freedom. But the tolerance I extended isn't reciprocated these days. Freedom now means taking it away.
How Orwellian.
Posted by Solameanie at 1:46 PM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: Atheism, Joel Griffith, Little Rock, Persecution, Solameanie
Sunday, December 02, 2012
Visit the Cliff House Inn!
Cliff House Inn near Jasper, Arkansas.
I don't often give business advertisements or endorsements on The Seventh Sola, but I will for the Cliff House. This place will always be special in my heart. It's located just south of Jasper along scenic Ark Route 7 in the Buffalo River country—in the heart of the western Arkansas Ozark Mountains.
I have stopped and eaten at the Cliff House several times through the years during my travels in AR. I have also stayed for several days in the inn part, located on the lower level of the restaurant building. The previous owners and the new owners are wonderful people and make you feel right at home. The food is great, especially the Angel Flake biscuits! There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy Ozark souvenirs. And the view from both the restaurant and the inn balcony is breathtaking. You can get up in the morning to watch the sunrise, and you'll find to your surprise on opening the door that there will be a carafe of hot coffee, mugs, cream and sugar on a tray outside your room waiting for you. Then, you can sit, relax, talk to the Lord and watch with wonder as the sun rises over the mountain ridge across the Buffalo River Canyon. If you're lucky, there will be clouds wafting below you through the canyon, especially if rain has fallen the evening before after a hot summer day.
The Buffalo River itself, of course, is the most beautiful river in the country as far as I am concerned. Stop in, take a dip, cool off, and even hike some of the many trails in the region. Be sure you take a camera.
The price of the rooms has gone up a bit since I last stayed, but to me, the $80 a night is well worth it. There is a larger suite if you want it, and the cost is a bit more. And after looking on the Cliff House website, I see that they have acquired some nearby cabins for guests to stay if you want a more rustic, private setting. I actually stayed at these very cabins when they were owned by someone else, and they're great!
So if you're in the mood for a vacation and a good place to get away from it all, visit this area, and stay/eat at the Cliff House. You'll be glad you did!
I don't often give business advertisements or endorsements on The Seventh Sola, but I will for the Cliff House. This place will always be special in my heart. It's located just south of Jasper along scenic Ark Route 7 in the Buffalo River country—in the heart of the western Arkansas Ozark Mountains.
I have stopped and eaten at the Cliff House several times through the years during my travels in AR. I have also stayed for several days in the inn part, located on the lower level of the restaurant building. The previous owners and the new owners are wonderful people and make you feel right at home. The food is great, especially the Angel Flake biscuits! There is a nice little gift shop where you can buy Ozark souvenirs. And the view from both the restaurant and the inn balcony is breathtaking. You can get up in the morning to watch the sunrise, and you'll find to your surprise on opening the door that there will be a carafe of hot coffee, mugs, cream and sugar on a tray outside your room waiting for you. Then, you can sit, relax, talk to the Lord and watch with wonder as the sun rises over the mountain ridge across the Buffalo River Canyon. If you're lucky, there will be clouds wafting below you through the canyon, especially if rain has fallen the evening before after a hot summer day.
The Buffalo River itself, of course, is the most beautiful river in the country as far as I am concerned. Stop in, take a dip, cool off, and even hike some of the many trails in the region. Be sure you take a camera.
The price of the rooms has gone up a bit since I last stayed, but to me, the $80 a night is well worth it. There is a larger suite if you want it, and the cost is a bit more. And after looking on the Cliff House website, I see that they have acquired some nearby cabins for guests to stay if you want a more rustic, private setting. I actually stayed at these very cabins when they were owned by someone else, and they're great!
So if you're in the mood for a vacation and a good place to get away from it all, visit this area, and stay/eat at the Cliff House. You'll be glad you did!
Posted by Solameanie at 2:17 PM No comments: Links to this post
Labels: Buffalo River, Cliff House Inn, Jasper AR, Joel Griffith, Ozarks, Solameanie, Tourism, Travel
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The Secret Tool For Achieving Success
In Search for Secret Tool
One thousand years ago, there lived a wise grandmaster that possessed a secret tool for achieving success. It was believed that whomever that possessed it would accomplish greatness. The grandmaster was generous to share or even give this secret tool to whomever that has come to him. However there was a test, he lived on the peak of a mountain and the journey to the top of this mountain was tough. There were so many obstacles that one has to go through before reaching it.
Many have failed and killed during this quest. Those who returned home safe stated that there was a man-eating beast that roamed the forest. Many have been eaten alive by this creature. Besides, there were also plants that would trap and suck human blood and if one got trapped, it was impossible to escape.
Hearing this, some of them began to question the existence of such grandmaster. How could it be possible for him to get through it while all of them have failed; most of them were even warrior and had fought in the fieriest battle before. Soon the existence of the grandmaster was taken as a myth; he did not exist. Somebody was playing the fool around and spread his existence.
Those who killed in the quest were the victims of this silly fool. The families of the victims were furious over this matter and they wanted the person who spread that myth to be executed. They started to investigate over this matter and everyone in the village was questioned. When the first villager was asked, he told that his neighbor told him about it and when the neighbor was questioned, he again pointed his finger to his next neighbor. This process went on and on until the finger was pointed to a young boy, named Taro.
Taro was soon captured. He was made responsible for spreading the news and thus, must be executed. However, Taro defended himself saying that he really has seen the grandmaster but he was not shown of the secret tool. Hearing this, the villagers even became more furious and they started to beat him.
Knowing that he would be beaten to death, Taro begged for his life. To prove that he was innocent, Taro suggested that he himself would search for the grandmaster and bring back the secret tool. Soon, the villagers agreed and if he could return home safe, he would be spared.
The Journey Starts
Taro was blindfolded and escorted by ten strong men into the forest. After about a mile, he was released and forced into the deep forest. He could not escape since the ten strong men guarded the only way out of the forest. He had no choice but to went ahead. In his heart, he believed that the grandmaster was real and he determined to find him and get his secret tool no matters what it takes.
Two weeks has passed, Taro was now on his way up to the mountain. He didn't encounter the man-eating beast and the blood sucking plants as mentioned by his fellows villagers; he might be lucky. Besides being a little bit cold, his journey up to the mountain was smooth and easy.
After three days of climbing, he finally reached to the top. There, he saw the cave as mentioned by the grandmaster and without any hesitations, he rushed into it. He was glad to see the grandmaster meditating at one corner of the cave. He quickly approached him to redeem the secret tool he was promised of.
The grandmaster suddenly opened his eyes and said, "Son, you have achieved extraordinary. Since you have gotten what you are looking for, you may go now."
Taro was confused, "Great wise man, I've just arrived and you have not given me anything which you have promised before. How could you ask me to go while you did not keep your promise?"
The grandmaster replied, "You have gotten what you're looking for. You might not realize it. Besides, I do not possess any secret tools of success."
Taro was getting angry when hearing his reply, "Why would you like to fool me? I was nearly killed by those villagers and now you told me that you do not posses the secret tool. How dare you are?"
"The secret tool resides in everybody. You have it, I have it and your fellow villagers have it too. This powerful secret tool is none other than your mind. You have gone through all the dangers that were waiting for you and you succeeded. You have a strong mind and I believe that you could accomplish just anything that you desire," the grandmaster answered.
"I know that your journey was smooth and easy. You didn't meet with the beast and the plants. Did you know why? Because you never thought of them, you have no fear. Those creatures only attracted to those who have fear, …. most importantly, fear of success. You are so focus on the success and nothing could ever stop you," he added.
Taro became speechless. He could make the connections now. He began to realize that the secret tool that everyone is looking for is not other than the mind. Besides, by thinking back, he indeed never thought of any of those creatures, his only concern was to find the grandmaster.
"Thank you, grandmaster. You have given me a lot, " Taro replied.
After the conversation ended, Taro hurriedly down the mountain so that he could reach home and tell his fellow villagers about this secret tool.
There Are Non Believers
As soon as he reached home, he shouted loud so that all the villagers would gather and listen to him. Taro told his fellow villagers about the grandmaster and the secret tool that they have already possessed. He even explained how he did not meet any of the beasts unlike his fellow villagers.
Unfortunately, out of hundred, only five of them that believed in Taro. The majority still accused Taro of being telling lie. Luckily, Taro was spared since he had successfully returned home safe.
This story was passed down from one generation to another and indeed only five percent of people who have heard this story, believe in it. This five percent of people have always achieved greatness and accomplished what seems to be impossible. The remaining ninety five percent is still looking for the secret tool which could never ever been found.
Because it resides INSIDE you.
"Minds can make men giants so far as personal power and accomplishment are concerned. This is just as true with your mind as it is with the minds of others." - Ben Sweetland
I hope that you enjoy the story above and realize that the greatest tool that you are ever looking for is already INSIDE you.
"Got it." Tnanks for sharing...
This is beautiful story Metaphysician. Thank you.
BTW, where is your new Hub about cat?
fantastic story, great teacher. It's our mind which actually creates our future isn't it?
This is a great inspiring story. Thank you very much metaphysician.
I liked your story. Thank you for sharing it.
metaphysician, thanks for a great story with a very important life lesson. Oh the power of the mind!
Beautiful, Metaphysician. Thank you for this.
The ultimate battle is not outside of us. It is within.
The true warrior battles the forces inside of himself for everything outside of us is no more than our own projection.
I thought of this quote but I can not remember if it is by Confucius or Lao Tzu
"He who conquers others is powerful, but he who conquers himself is mightier still."
Great story. Good job the beasts and plants also believed it :)
Brilliant, lets use the focus of our minds to assume the 5% is rising.
Excellent!!! Love the story and the meaning, I appreciate you sharing "the tool"


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text:
Product InformationProduct code: ES6083 Categories: Sold Items, Sold Jewellery.
The archaeological discoveries during the Victorian era heavily influenced jewellery designs and here is a magnificent antique bangle from the Victorian era in an Etruscan design.
Superbly made, it dates from the 1870's and was made in 15ct gold. Well over 140 years old, it is still in superb condition and can easily be worn every day.
The quality of the design is wonderful with the fine granule styled wire work design that really sets this bangle apart from many others.
Measuring 19.2mm wide it is hinged and oval allowing it to sit nice and close to the wrist making it even more practical to wear all the time. This really is one of the finest antique Etruscan designed bangles around and one that is so elegant and in equally superb condition.
Stock# ES6083
Circa: 1870