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beautifulterriblequeen · 3 years ago

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Trickster: an Ethari theory

I've had yea many Ethari headcanons, and I hope I live to have yea many more. Most of them are probably wrong, or incomplete at best. But boy are they fun.

I love to wonder what Ethari will really be like in canon when we get to know him for more than 3 minutes, but whoever he really is on his own, he will have an effect on Runaan , Rayla, and everyone who loves him, because they love him.

The first headcanon I can remember having for "Tinker" was that he could be like Leonardo da Vinci: a genius, creative, surrounded by beautiful ideas given shape by his hands, but also capable of creating deadly weapons, enchantments, and devices with equal beauty, and perhaps not really seeing where the line between them was. It was fun, but Ethari has ended up far softer than my headcanon, and I love and support him in his softness!

After a nice string of Ethari headcanons, this year I've started poking at the Trickster archetype and seeing if it applies to him. And I think it absolutely does!

Tricksters often seem like Chaos. But they're not. They're just Difference. "Chaos" is subjective. Like the "divergent" in "neurodivergent." Who says? Divergent from what, exactly? Perspective matters, and Tricksters have a very broad take on things which allows them to think outside any box people might try to invite them into.

My enjoyment of Loki has brought all kinds of ideas to my dash with the arrival of the Loki show. I've got a copy of the Edda, and I highlighted the hell out of it a couple of years ago as I searched for the roots of Loki's origin story. (It's truly fascinating reading and the symbolic language hidden inside their poetry is dazzlingly amazing and I'm super using it sometime just so you know)

Loki is a Trickster, and he's far from alone in myth and legend. Anansi, Coyote, and Sun Wukong are some you may have heard of. Aaravos is another, of course. Tricksters can be called upon to lend aid and wisdom when the rules don't have an answer for some extraordinary circumstance which the Trickster's people find themselves in. But that's not because they are truly outside the rule of order. They are actually a part of it. They are the catch-all for when the everyday ordinary rules fail people, and something "unthinkable"--in the literal sense--might just hold the answer.

This post crossed my dash today, and something finally clicked in my head, and all of this coalesced from what felt like separate places. But they're not separate, not anymore! Serotonin, baby. It's basically upped my headcanon to a full-blown theory.

What caught my eye was an answer to why Ethari's clothing is so determinedly asymmetrical, compared to Runaan's specifically, but Moonshadows in general. It's because of this:

Long protective sleeves below patterns on shoulders. A high collar paired with a bright and noticeable swoop around the neck. Fine detailing and graceful taste. Asymmetrical tunic point on the left, below broad strappy leather. Knee high boots with stylish protective gaiters.

And let's not forget the curling horns! In some comics, Loki has a broken horn. So does Ethari.

Yes, there is a lot of similarity here, but I'm not focused so much on the visuals as the reason they were chosen. Feel free to consider other aspects of Ethari's personality and how they might be similar to certain parts of Loki's. I did! But I wouldn't be me if I didn't go deeper than that.

My favorite book in the universe (so far) is Lois McMaster Bujold's The Curse of Chalion, and one of the many reasons why is because of her pantheon. It holds five gods, represented by a hand: Father, Mother, Son, Daughter, and Bastard. The first four all have their roles and places. The Bastard--the thumb--inherits everything else. He is the god of all things that do not belong to any other gods, and that includes self-sacrificing vengeance and queerness. He is a Trickster, and his influence on Cazaril's life is far deeper than at first glance. Chaos has its place. It belongs, and so do the Tricksters who engender it. God, I love this book. Please read it if you haven't. Bujold's work is amazing.

If you've seen or read any version of MDZS/Untamed, you know that Wei WuXian is a trickster. Competent and badass in battle, but playful and teasing to the point where sometimes even he isn't sure what he truly wants, he can bring a massive amount of power and focus when he wants to. It's always a matter of "but is it important to me?"

I love WWX so much. The Trickster vibe is very apparent in his character, and in a way you just don't get in Western media. We see him on his own, and we see him with family and loved ones. And he's always feeling something so intensely! He's driven by his emotions, for good or ill. He vibes with chaos, and he will create it if it doesn't exist yet. But he will also create family from nothing, and that's something you don't see enough of! WWX is a Trickster with an emotional preference for joy.

In TDP, Ethari doesn't have a lot of lore yet. It's being Moonshadowed because spoilers for future seasons, and I respect that. The longer the wait for S4, the more ideas I will just amuse myself with in the meantime--and yeah, this is one of them, so what? :))) But we do know a little about him.

He loves music. He loves to read. He leaves his mark on things in swirly form. He works very hard, even through headaches, because what he's doing is that important to him, even though he would much rather be making jewelry. He loves taking the time to polish rough stones into brilliant jewels, and he adores big pretty flowers and had them at his wedding.

Ethari has a temper, but he also loves puns. The weapons he crafts are exquisite: "light, elegant, strong, and clever." And he knew darn well that Runaan was trying to flirt with him, but why return a sentiment he may or may not feel yet when he can play with the overly earnest assassin just a little bit first?

Okay, just... A "simple craftsman" deciding that it's going to be fun to toy for a bit with a broody assassin's feelings? Would you risk that? Ethari got balls the size of the moon, and a brain to match. When he has to make weaponry, he does not half-ass it. Ethari's stabby creations nearly have a life of their own. His creations are literally called "trick weapons." This elf is a lot, okay. And it's possible that he doesn't even know how "a lot" he is. Yet.

We're meeting Ethari after he's found something that is, in fact, genuinely important to him: Runaan, and Rayla, and Laindrin too. Ethari has found a relatively stable place to settle and find a role to adopt. I say adopt, though, because making weaponry for his loved ones is not what he grew up wanting to do. It's what he had to do to keep them safe, once he found a place to bestow his heart.

But in the show, Ethari has lost his family, one by one. First Lain and Tiadrin, ghosted. Then Runaan, supposedly fallen on his mission. Then Rayla, ghosted for abandoning Runaan. He and Rayla have reconnected now, but the rest of his family is still out of his reach. If Rayla has indeed told him, by S4, what she learned at the Moonhenge in TTM, then Ethari may parallel Rayla's journey to seek answers. But even if he doesn't know yet, and gets pulled into some other story arc first, we will be seeing Ethari without his family.

Remember the ATLA episode "Zuko Alone"? Consider: "Ethari Alone."

Ethari has chosen, for love, to fit himself into a box that wasn't of his own making. And now that box has broken. His family doesn't need him to be their craftsman anymore. Perhaps others will need him to be other things to them. Or perhaps he will know that his family does need him, but to be far more than just a maker of pretty swords. A rescuer, perhaps. A healer, a guide? An avenger?

A trickster. Capable of taking many shapes, because he understands them all. Ethari works with form and function. If he needs to transform himself, he will.

That's what Tricksters do. It's delightfully queer and delightfully neurodivergent. Ancient peoples accepted and revered the different among them and actively sought their help with things they themselves struggled with.

Tricksters are Difference. Sometimes that manifests as chaos, sometimes as genius. But if you do not love and appreciate your chaos, it will absolutely turn on you. Wei Wuxian did. Loki certainly has, many times. Perhaps Aaravos is doing so as well.

I cannot wait to see what Ethari does with his difference. I have something very specific that I hope he goes and breaks.

All this from a picture of Tom Hiddleston in his Avengers 1 Loki costume? Yeah. Because Ethari was designed to wear asymmetrical clothing, in a Moonshadow culture that prides itself on balance. Sure, there are some other Moonshadows who wear this or that asymmetrical item, and I do love to see it. But Ethari has the most asymmetrical lines of them all. The meta glee I feel knowing that Moonshadow elves are designed to hold many layers of meaning in their appearances--that the writers, creators, and character designers just flexed with them--is truly a delight.

Ethari is asymmetrical. The full and practical application of that is a glass casket, and I hope it becomes a gift that keeps on giving, because boy do I want to keep receiving it. But right now, I'm genuinely seeing evidence of the Trickster archetype in him. And I really hope it gets to come out and play.

#tdp #tdp theory #ethari #trickster #tdp speculation #yes this means a whole new category for ruthari opposites #order and chaos #ethari and order are both on runaan's list of likes #but ethari is higher so #loki #wwx #wei wuxian

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surveys-at-your-service · 3 years ago

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Survey #459

“i wanted you to know that i love the way you laugh / i wanna hold you high and steal your pain away”

Does the person you like have any flaws? He's never seemed very expressive of what he feels. Has anyone ever given you a ring? Why? Yes. Because it was our anniversary and he wanted to, ig. If you ruled your own country, what type of government would it have? I'm not educated enough to answer this. Creation theory, Evolution or the Big Bang theory? I really don't know what I believe about the origins of the universe, but I do believe in evolution. Describe one of your most emotional farewells. The last time I saw Jason and we talked for a long time, and I finally got my closure. It was all so heavy. It started so stiffly, but it ended with us just chatting and smiling and, to my absolute shock, a hug from him. I'm getting emotional so NEXT QUESTION. What was your last serious conversation about? I was reassuring and comforting Sara about some stuff. Is there a city that you have a particular fondness for? If so, what city is it and why? No. Are there any gnomes in your yard? No. When was the last time you were stung by a bee? What kind was it? Years ago. A bumblebee. Are you gonna buy lottery tickets when you’re old enough? I am old enough, and no. The odds are way, way too small, and I don't really dabble in addictive behavior. Have you ever been into a real cave? No. :( That's a life goal, though. Have you ever posted mean comments on YouTube? I know I did once as a kid. It was regarding Meerkat Manor and I thought it was really disrespectful to Flower just because of the music chosen lmao. The drama. What color is your digital camera, if you have one? Black. If you had to spend one day in any movie storyline, which one would it be? Alice in Wonderland, I suppose? Name the strangest game you’ve ever played (video game or real game): Oh man, I've played waaaaay too many video games. I suppose Silent Hill with how confused it left me at first. Its concept is definitely wild. Parasite Eve is high on the list, too. In your opinion, what is the saddest movie you’ve ever seen? Boy in the Striped Pajamas destroys me. What is the best song to make out to? I could answer this but I'm not gonna lmfao Is there anyone right now that you are simply/overly infatuated with? story of my life ayyyyeeeee Who was the last person to play with your hair? Are they cute? Not a clue. Who was the last person close to you that died? Did you cry? Jason's mom. I sobbed on-and-off for days. Do you consider yourself a healthy person? Physically and mentally? No, in either way. Do you know anyone who owns a boat? My dad does. I'm sure others, too, with how popular fishing out on a boat is here. Do you know anyone who uses medical marijuana? I don't know. Even for medicinal purposes, it's not legal here. Do you know anyone who’s died in childbirth? No. What did you do for your 21st birthday? I was in the psych hospital, so... lmao. Therapy, reading, and coloring. Lots of reading and coloring. Because they did NOT fill your schedule enough there. We only had two group therapy sessions a day, and the rest was just... blankness. If dinosaurs could be tamed, would you want one as a pet? I know I'd be one of the dumb ones that absolutely wanted a tiny raptor, lol. Do you own more than one copy or edition of a book? No. If you could see any musical on Broadway right now, what would it be? Not interested. Do you eat soup when you’re sick? I don't like soup. If you read, which book or series did you enjoy most as a child? My first real series that I read religiously was Hank the Cowdog. Then it was Warriors. Do you buy Halloween candy when it’s on sale after the holiday? No. I really don't need candy available to me. Do you agree with the “they’re just being kids” excuse? It depends on what they're doing. In a lot of cases, no. Do you ever watch talk shows? No. Do you have a/any hero(s)? Mark Fischbach, Steve Irwin, my mom... Have you told your parents all of your secrets from when you were a teen? No. Though Mom has playfully once told me that she knows a lot of things I don't think she does, and that's terrifying lmao. You’re getting married. Who’s your maid of honor and best man? M.o.H.: Mom or Sara. Best man isn't my choice. Would you rather get highlights or dye your whole head? DYE IT ALLLLLLL. Are you wearing anything of any sentimental value? Describe? My friendship ring w/ Sara. It has a heart carved on the outside and "bitch" engraved inside so no one can see when you have it on, lol. She has one that says "jerk." It's a Supernatural reference. Who challenges you the most? In what way? My therapist and psychiatrist. They just help ensure I pursue my goals and give me little nudges forward to reassure me. Who seems to hold you back? In what way? PFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFT ME. I listen to my anxiety WAY too much. What was the last opportunity that you passed up, and why? Going up to Lake Gaston w/ Mom to visit Ash and her fam. They go there all the time, and it's a real nice place. I just didn't want to go because of the heat. Should there be an application process for having children? Hunny, that would not stop people from fuckin lmfao Name one thing that you think defines you as a person? m e e r k a t s What is a fear you have about living on your own? That depression would get the better of me and I'd neglect taking good care of my house. One of the many reasons I'll never live alone. Not at all saying I'd leave the responsibilities to my partner, but they'd be motivation for me to get stuff done. What’s the worst name your mom has ever called you? I don't know. Nothing that bad. What’s your stance on spooning? It helps me feel safe and loved and alsdkfjalwe I just love cuddling in all sorts lmao What’s your most recent obsession? Violet Orlandi & Melodicka Bros' cover of "Somebody That I Used to Know." Have you ever been scammed? Ha ha, yes. I once wanted to get Jason a Joker and Harley Quinn pillow from deviantART; talked to the artist, paid 'em, never got it. :^) Have you ever fostered an animal? No. I would get WAY too attached to foster. I wouldn't be able to give them up without breaking down, probs. Do you know anyone who acts way younger than what they are? I'm sure I do, but no one is coming to mind atm. Would you say you’re a pretty independent person? God no. Does the last song you listened to, remind you of someone? JASON. Do you currently want a new computer? Yes, actually. I want a desktop PC for better gaming quality, honestly. Also, the "escape" key doesn't work on this laptop, one key is missing so I have to hit the sensor JUST right, and it restarts randomly sometimes. I want a PC mainly because I want to get out of the habit of being on my laptop in bed all damn day. How would your parents react if you got a tattoo? I already have like six or seven, so they wouldn't be surprised. Is there anyone you can picture yourself being with forever right now? Maybe. Who is your truest friend? Sara. What is the strangest thing you’ve ever seen outside of your house? THIS house? Idk. Nothing that I'd consider odd. What bug frightens you most? STAG BEETLES lkadjslkfja;lwekjawl;kejrlawer Who is your oldest friend? That would be Sam, and he's in his mid-30s. How long have you known them? Many years. We met via WoW, which I've been playing since '14. I don't really remember how far into it we met, though. Where are they right now? lol I wouldn't know, he's all the way in Jersey. Plus we haven't talked in a while. Have you ever dated a friend of one of your siblings? God no, that would be so weird. What is the best gift someone can give you? An ear to listen without it feeling like a chore to them. Have you ever dated someone who had a child? No. I don't think I could do it. What is the last movie that made you cry? The The Lion King remake made me tear up. Have you ever played in a waterfall? No. Ugh, that sounds like a blast. In your life who has meant the most to you? Let's not get into this. What has been your biggest failure in life? Letting depression and my other conditions take away my identity, becoming my new identity. Do you trust yourself? No. I second-guess EVERYTHING and never know what I should listen to: my heart, my head, my gut... or which voice is what. Would you ever consider getting an abortion, under any circumstances? Yes. What was the last bug you killed? Some kind in the bathroom. Idk what it was. Just a little thing that sort of resembled an earwig, but not completely. Do you prefer profile pictures by yourself of with someone else? By myself, since it's my page. Do you know anyone who has written a book? I don't think so? Do you drink milk/juice from the carton if no one is around? Ew, no. I live with another person, and even if I didn't, what if I had guests? Has anyone ever told you they liked you in a realllly sweet way? Maybe? Has a member of the opposite sex ever given you jewlery? Jason has. Do you find sleeping in cars easy? NOOOOOOOOOO. I'm too scared to let my eyes close and not see what's going on on the road. Has a boyfriend’s/girlfriend’s parents ever gotten mad at you? Why? I don't believe so, no. What is the funniest thing a child has ever said to you. Definitely something my niece has said, but idr what it was. What’s been on your mind lately? Y'all know, lol. Do you feel like you need to get something off your chest? No. Sara was recently there for that. ♥ How would you react if someone told you they had feelings for you? Be very very excited if it was from a certain person.

#survey #surveys #random questions #lyrics: ''broken'' by seether (ft. amy lee)

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iinfortunii · 4 years ago

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rules: code of conduct.

BEGIN.

Before we start, I would like you to have certain things in mind when approaching me ooc. I am very shy and quite awkward, which results in me not being much of a talker; however, I will always try my best to be friendly to whoever wants to approach. I dislike pet names so please do not use them with me unless we are very close. There will be times when I'm just exhausted, so my wording could sound rude/aggressive, to which I apologize in advance -I never mean to hurt people’s feelings. I also reserve the right to interact with WHOEVER I want, and pestering me about it will only get you blocked.

Updates will be made as required.

I. BASIC.

A. This blog is: Selective / Independent / Canon Divergent / NSFW / Mutuals only / Singleship / Mostly iconless / Multiverse / AU, Crossover, OC, and Multimuse friendly / Vaguely affiliated with the OP RP fandom.

B. I am a very slow rper for many reasons —school, family, my ever-fluctuating mood —and I would appreciate it if you refrained from pestering me for replies. In return I offer as much patience as necessary. Think of this blog as low activity please.

C. English is not my mother language so I apologize in advance for any mistakes made.

D. I track the tag #iinfortunii, although mentioning me works just as fine.

E. Constructive criticism is always welcome but anon hate will be immediately deleted. I have no problems if you disagree with my portrayal, but it doesn't give you the right to harass me.

F. Mun and muse are both over 18, so there are chances that heavy content will be present; however I won't be writing smut. I can roleplay anything before or after the act if requested, but the moment things get far too explicit, I'll do a fade-to-black. I ask of you to not lie about your age or else you’ll be blocked indefinitely.

G. This is a heavily headcanon-based blog, and changes are likely to be made as more information is revealed about him, though I reserve the right to adjust the new information according to my interpretation of Deuce or simply ignore it, which is why I’m canon divergent.

H. If you'd like to turn an ask into a thread, you can turn it into a new post, or reblog from me, as I won't be using the Tumblr asks anymore due to the problems that come with formatting and such.

I. Ask box is open for everyone ic or ooc, but you aren't allowed to turn it into a thread and nor I will reply to it if we’re not mutuals. Please don't push me, because I won't hesitate to block.

J. No godmoding —only a minor is allowed if it moves a thread forward —or metagaming, please. Don't kill Deuce either, unless plotted beforehand, and most importantly, don't hold your muse back.

K. Discord is available for mutuals upon request.

L. Just because I write something it does not mean I condone it. Please have this in mind and again, do not pester me about it. Any and all nsfw matters will be tagged accordingly. There will be triggering topics present, and you can know more about this on the section below.

M. DO NOT involve me in drama or call-out posts. I’m heavily against both things. On this note, you’ll never see me rebloging a call-out post. This culture is so damaging and toxic, and I firmly believe no one should play the role of the judge for the good of the community just because you had issues with someone or don’t agree with the things they roleplay. Talk things privately, be mature about it, hard-block the person and move on. I am also very aware that a lot of people have done things that can’t be excused, but I like to believe that people can change for the better. If you try to drag me into it, I'll hard block any and all people involved indefinitely.

II. TRIGGERS.

A. They will be tagged as trigger tw, trigger / and trigger cw.

B. I do my best to stay up to date with my mutuals triggers. Your comfort is way more important to me than you might think, so never be hesitant to approach me via IM, (anonymous) ask or stop following me.

C. Triggers that are likely to appear, although some more than others: violence || blood || death || drugs || abuse || knives || body image || medical equipment || suggestive content || etc

D. I have no triggers, so you are free to go wild with your content. I only ask you remember to tag your nsfw (both written and visual), please.

III. INTERACTIONS.

A. Deuce won't like everyone. He might/will make wrong assumptions about your character. He will insult and bite back. He won't always be nice to those he likes. He does many things that serve his interests. You, as the mun, have no reason to take it personal, because I'm won't follow someone I don't like; if you DO take it personal however, and decide to rouse drama, then I'll be hard-blocking you. Goes for me as well —I have no reason to get angry for any of the things noted above.

B. My bonds page displays the relationships that have been built over time, not necessarily through interaction alone but over plotting as well. Refer to it for more information.

C. Interactions with OCs related to canon characters will only take place as long as said OCs have a detailed about page. Personally, I'm not interested in the idea of an OC being blood-related to my portrayal, so I apologize in advance.

D. Formatting isn’t a big thing across my blogs, save for the small text. Please don’t mix either sup/sub with small text when writing with me, as I have eyesight problems. Don’t use colored text either.

E. Non-romantic pre-established relationships are allowed! Just make sure to talk it out with me first, yeah?

01. Spade / Whitebeard pirates (canon and original characters alike that i am MUTUALS with) will have a pre-established relationship as long as the other mun is comfortable with such idea, though that relationship will be limited to merely crewmates, unless discussed otherwise.

F. You don’t need to match my writing length as long as I’m given enough to work with. If something about my reply bothers or doesn’t work with you, let me know and I’ll re-work it.

G. I really enjoy plotting scenarios or talking out about the relationships my muse could have with other muses, so hit me up if you’ve got any ideas! I’ll try to do the same!

H. Mun does not equal muse, so don’t go assuming I’m a jerk simply because Deuce is an asshole from time to time. I’m set on the idea that I’ll give people the same treatment they give me —which is always nice and kind. Kudos to everyone for this ♡

I. I don’t use a threadtracker because I rely on my memory (terrible mistake, I know), but I try to draft people’s replies as soon as I see them. If by any reason it seems like I lost it, then please let me know / send me a link with it and I’ll be deeply grateful.

J. I don’t do nor reply to greetings starters for matters of my own comfort, so I ask of you to never expect a starter or a reply from them.

IV. SHIPPING.

A. Singleship, with the spot taken by daadzi, which means Deuce is no longer open for romantic relationships.

01. Under no circumstances, I will accept more romantic relationships once the spot is taken. That being said, I won’t discourage your muse from falling for / hitting on him, although I ask you to understand he will never respond with the same interest or will never react gently if he’s pushed too far.

02. If my shipping partner is comfortable enough, I'll interact with duplicates with the condition that the relationship is strictly platonic.

B. Constant interaction, mutual interest, and chemistry are a must for the sake of better communication (both ic and ooc, preferably).

C. Please do not approach me if you wish our characters to have either a: one night stand or friends with benefits type of relationships. It won’t work out due to the nature of Deuce’s personality, and for that I apologize.

E. My ship has its own tag so you're free to block it if you don't want to see it on your dashboard. In addition, I'll also tag those posts with only the ship name for this very purpose.

F. Please do not force ships on me.

V. CELEBRATIONS.

A. First off, I am absolutely terrible at keeping up with dates, and to be frank, I am not the biggest fan of celebrating, which is why I think it’s necessary to say I won’t be partaking in any holidays, not even Deuce’s birthday (not that he has one, to begin with). Obviously I will still reply to any gifts received, and will send out things in return —you know, common courtesy.

B. I won't be sending out birthday gifts every year, and I might write drabbles for people once in a blue moon; it doesn’t mean they will be done for the specific date though, so please be patient.

VI. REASONS TO NOT FOLLOW BACK / UNFOLLOW.

A. Too much drama / call-outs / vague posts / sexual content.

B. Content makes me uncomfortable.

C. You are a personal blog without a visible rp sideblog. Please make sure it's easy to find.

D. You do not have a proper tag system.

E. Your blog doesn’t have a rules and about pages.

F. You lack the manners to deal with people respectfully.

G. I have no interest / lost interest.

H. I'm constantly / only used as a meme archive.

I. Other reasons may apply. I will soft block so we can both cease following each other and avoid any potential awkward situations. I won’t make a fuss if you decide to unfollow so I expect the same courtesy.

VII. ABOUT BEATRICE.

She is not a real person. Her concept as Deuce’s (toxic) pseudolover is my creation and was somewhat inspired from the real life Beatrice Portinari. Do have in mind that Deuce doesn’t talk about her so your muse can’t simply approach him and ask about her unless they can go through his memories / read his mind / any capability alike or he speaks about her, though it won't take a genius to figure out that she's a product of his imagination.

You can read about her by clicking here -link to be added.

She serves as a lie to shield himself from the internalized homophobia he deals with up until meeting Ace.

NOTE: As stated previously, Mun =/= muse, but I too have been dealing with compulsory heterosexuality for far too long, so I'd like to apologize in advance for projecting a bit of that into my portrayal. I'll work so that this part makes sense with what we've been given from Ace's novel.

VIII. MISCELLANEOUS.

A. I will never force people to follow me, so if by any reason you have to unfollow/block me, please go ahead. Your comfort matters and have every right to do what you must to ensure your wellbeing. With that said, I will not tolerate and will immediately hard block if you try to police my content.

B. I do not follow back immediately, and it can take me from a few hours to several days to follow back. Do not take it personally if I choose not to.

C. If I follow it’s because I am interested in interacting. I only ask you to be patient because it might take me a while to gather the courage to send something to your inbox or talk to you.

D. I have. ZERO knowledge about medicine. Don’t expect me to go full force and try to be 100% accurate, because I won’t.

E. I practice reblog karma (send a meme to someone if I’m rebloging it from them). If you see something you’d like to reblog but have no intention in sending something yourself, then please reblog from the source.

IX. FINISH.

Thank you for taking the time to read this! As you might have noticed, there’s no password to send. Make sure to check the psa tag for any updates, or don’t hesitate to send an ask if there’s anything unclear! I do my best so as not to post too much OOC posts, but sometimes it just happens. If it's nothing important, then I'll erase it whenever I have the chance/remember.

Keanu Reeves vc: You’re all breathtaking!

#pinned post.#long post #❝ —talking nonsense ; ooc #❝ —off to new adventures ; queue #ooc.#queue.#[ this is a very long post btw ]

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wormprint · 5 years ago

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The Best Dragonyule Possible

hiya @bumblepuppy!! I was your secret Saint Starfall this year!!

Here’s a lovely, lovely nearly 4k words piece about the Eldritch family and happy Dragonyule times <3 This family makes me soft....

I hope you enjoy, Annelise!! <3

Hethiwood was a town devoid of holidays, devoid of celebrations. It was a town dedicated to worship, not unlike Tenisom, or Kyril. Brainless, blind following of ancient, forgotten gods left no time for birthdays, for any time to look forward to in the year besides the rituals of worship Lathna was forced to go through. She knew of her age-- 9 years old in fact, yet she had never blown out birthday candles or received a gift for a holiday. To say it shortly, she had never celebrated Dragonyule. The mere concept of a day dedicated to gifting to others and spending time with family was foreign.

A tiny hand reached up the oak door, knocking as loudly as she could at the study shared by Curran and Heinwald.

The two had become somewhat of parental figures for her. After all, she had no family in Hethiwood, in Kyril, and surely none in Tenisom. It was nice to have some people who cared for her. To make her feel like she wasn’t alone.

“Come in,” called Curran, from within the study.

Lathna heaved to open the somewhat heavy door, pushing against it as much as she could.

The inquisitor and his partner-in-truth looked up simultaneously as Lathna took a few steps into the study. The walls were lined with nearly hundreds of books, with a large window allowing the frosty light into the otherwise dark room. In the center was a large desk, where Curran sat and sorted through a large stack of papers. Heinwald was leaning upon the edge of the window, reading in the sunlight.

“Lathna,” Heinwald said, with a smile. “What brings you here?”

“What’s Dragonyule?” she asked, simply, clutching onto her skirt.

Curran looked towards Hein, then set down the papers he held. “Dragonyule is a holiday, a means to exchange gifts with those you care for, and spend time with your loved runs, and give thanks to Ilia for the good parts of the ear.”

A tiny smile appeared on Lathna’s face at the mistake, then dissipated as she pondered over the response. After a moment, a long pause of silence, she asked, “Why?”

These were the parenting questions Curran wasn’t prepared for. “Ah...just because. It’s been a tradition for a long time.”

“It was a means to convert non-Ilian worshippers to the church,” Hein started, closing the book he held. “The Dragonyule tree, Saint Starfall, every figure associated with the holiday used to be symbols of pre-Ilian winter solstice traditions. When the Ilian church rose to power, it took these symbols into the celebration of Dragonyule so that the people would convert.”

“Or...we could talk about the traditions and less about the history, Hein.”

That answer only raised more and more questions about Dragonyule, its origins, its practices. Each and every answer only raised more and more questions for Lathna, her curiosity unsatiated with the unusual holiday.

Eventually, the barrage of questions stopped, and Lathna left the study.

Curran looked at Heinwald, shrugging. “I never expected explaining Dragonyule to be that difficult.”

“She is very persistent with her questions. She seeks the truth,” Hein replied, opening the book once more, “Just like a certain pair I know.”

“Oh goddess, we’re influencing her to become an investigator,” Curran said, jokingly, a small smile appearing on his face.

“As if that is an unfortunate circumstance.”

“Twas a joke, love.”

And so they returned back to their work, until the sun had set in the sky, and the light in the study diminished.

“Y’know, Hein,” Curran said, turning in their shared bed, pressing a soft kiss to Hein’s shoulder as he draped an arm around his partner’s waist. “I don’t think Lathna has ever celebrated Dragonyule before.”

Heinwald turned his head, looking over his shoulder. “I wouldn’t doubt it, considering how Hethiwood operated as a village.”

Curran began to softly rub his thumb over Heinwald’s skin. “I think we should give her a great first Dragonyule. She deserves it, with how much bullcrap she’s had to deal with.”

“How so?” Hein asked, rolling over to face Curran, reaching up to run a hand through his soft, blonde hair.

“Like...give her lots of gifts, participate in the festivities. Even decorate her own tree. Watch and play in the snow, the normal kid-on-Dragonyule sort of experiences.”

A soft smile formed on Heinwald’s lips, as he reached forward to press a light kiss onto Curran’s face. “You care about her a great deal, Curran.”

“Is that a bad thing?” He asked, an eyebrow raising in question.

“No, not at all,” Hein said, chuckling between his words. “I’ll assist you in giving Lathna a great first Dragonyule.”

Curran combed his hand through Heinwald’s long hair, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead. “Thanks, love. I appreciate it.”

“No need for thanks. As much as I’d love to continue talking about this, it’s late.”

“Get some rest. I love you.”

The days were drawing nearer and nearer to the holiday. She had watched the Halidom’s children grow antsier and more excited for Dragonyule with each passing day. They had chittered and chattered about what they wanted from Saint Starfall (who, Lathna would come to understand, supposedly delivered these gifts to the children), about the traditions of opening gifts under the Yuletree.

So Lathna listened, as Pia and Lowen chatted about Dragonyule, the children sitting in the kitchen, a plate of freshly baked cookies from Cleo in front of them.

“What do you want from Saint Starfall, Lathna?” Lowen had asked, sweetly, pushing the plate towards Lathna slightly. Lathna didn’t talk much, but he and Pia always tried to include her in the conversation when they could.

“Ah...I…don’t know,” She whispered, gripping onto her skirt, nervously.

Pia gave her a reassuring smile, reaching for a cookie. “It’s okay! It’s a lot to think about.”

“Yeah! You don’t have to decide right now,” Lowen added. “I spend all year thinking about what I want from Saint Starfall, and even then it’s hard for me to decide!”

Lathna nodded. It absolutely was much to think about, for a small girl who never celebrated such a holiday.

After a moment, she spoke again. “How does... Saint Starfall know what you want?”

“You’re supposed to write a letter to him, and he’ll get it in the mail, and then bring you what you wish for,” Lowen explained, “I give the letter to Louise for her to mail it.”

Pia nodded as Lowen spoke. “Mariti would take all of the letters to Saint Starfall from the kids in the choir and mail them for us.”

“Oh…” Lathna’s voice was soft, timid. “I’ve never written a letter to Saint Starfall.”

Pia and Lowen’s eyes looked like they were about to bug out of their heads.

“We need to change that right now!” Pia exclaimed, standing quickly, nearly falling from the stool she sat on.

“I have some paper!” Lowen said, almost bouncing off the chair. “C’mon, Lathna, let’s write our letter to Saint Starfall right now!”

Lowen reached for Lathna’s hand, tugging on it, imploring her to come with them.

“O-Okay,” she stuttered, letting herself be pulled by Lowen, all the way to his room, where the trio sat and wrote about everything they wished for from Saint Starfall.

It took Lathna quite a while to think. She stared at a blank piece of paper, void other than the “Dear Saint Starfall” at the top of the page.

Pia looked up from her scribbling. Perched upon her head was one of her mouse friends, cosied up on her hat. “Do you want some help with your letter, Lathna?”

She nodded, slowly. “I...never got gifts in Hethiwood…”

“Some kids wish for toys. What kind of toys do you like?” Lowen set his pen down, finished with his own letter.

“Plushies,” Lathna enthusiastically said, gripping onto her pen, a small smile on her face.

“Then there you go! What kind of plushie do you want?” Pia added, tapping her own pen on her knee to a beat of her own creation.

“A bear,” Lathna responded, looking down at her paper. “I want a stuffed bear.”

She then began to write and write about the stuffed bear she wished for, with fur soft as mink and ears of velvet, with a bow made of purple satin.

The letter was placed into an envelope, sealed with stickers that Lowen had stashed away, and addressed to Saint Starfall in the best lettering the children could manage, to be sent off to him to get their presents ready.

And Lathna smiled, as she held her letter, a small spark of excitement within her.

“Is Saint Starfall real?” She had asked Curran, later that day, as she, Curran, and Heinwald walked through the Halidom.

“Yes,” Curran said, without hesitation.

Yet at the same time Heinwald spoke as well, not even lifting his eyes from the book his nose was stuck in. “Of course not.”

Curran shot a glance at Heinwald, squinting. “She’s a kid, Hein,” He scolded, then turned back towards Lathna, who gripped onto his hand. “Of course he is. He brings everyone gifts, doesn’t he?”

“Wouldn’t it...mean more, if it’s from friends?”

“Precisely,” Heinwald interjected. “Why should a fictional man gain all of the credit for those who pay for the gifts that are given?”

“Because it’s tradition, and also fun for kids to believe in.”

Oh, the bickering was about to begin.

Heinwald finally looked up from his book. “All children eventually grow out of the belief. If anything, it is a waste to believe such a thing in the first place.”

“Woke up on the wrong side of the bread now, didn’t you?” Curran quipped, unaware of his spoken flub-up.

A small giggle escaped Lathna, growing with intensity as the two men continued. A wide smile covered her face, a strange sight for many in the Halidom to see.

Curran and Heinwald completely stopped their bickering over the belief in Saint Starfall to look at her, the argument dropped as they heard her soft laughter. Curran’s lips turned into a smile as well, as he glanced towards Hein.

Hein had a similar, warm smile on his face.

It was almost comical to Lathna, to watch the Halidom burst at the seams with garlands of strung popcorn, with wreaths placed on nearly every door, brilliant strings of light mana glowing within glass bulbs illuminating the arches and stairwells. A large tree had been set up in the foyer, reaching high into the tall room, with lights and garlands and holly and whatnot hanging among the branches. Lathna’s neck craned to look at the top of the tree, where the fairy Notte was struggling to place a star tree-topper amongst the highest peak.

“Entranced with the Yuletree, hm?” came a familiar voice, as Heinwald looked towards the girl with a small smile.

Lathna nodded, looking up towards Hein. “It’s really pretty,” she said, voice soft with wonder.

Hein looked up, giving a small hum of agreement. “I’ve never been one for Dragonyule festivities, but I do agree that the tree has its charms,” he paused, taking in the massive tree. “How would you like a tree of your own, Lathna?”

Her eyes widened with surprise, then she nodded enthusiastically. “I’d like that. Could you and Curran help me decorate it?”

“I’m sure that can be arranged.”

Lathna had a sparkle in her eye that Hein had rarely seen before. She had a tiny grin on her face, and bounced on her toes excitedly. “When can we get it?” She asked, grabbing Heinwald’s hand and tugging on it a few times.

Hein’s eyes widened with surprise. Lathna wasn’t very affectionate with him, she tended to cling to Curran more than himself. Yet, it was nice, Hein thought, that she was starting to become more accustomed to being around him. His expression softened after a moment. “We should ask Curran. With the holidays comes a dam in the flow of mysteries, so work for both of us has been slower than usual. Therefore, it would be safe to say that we could get the tree soon.”

Lathna beamed at the answer, taking a few steps and tugging on Hein’s hand again. “Let’s go ask!” she said, in a jubilant tone, nearly dragging the man through the Halidom halls.

Her nose pressed excitedly against the glass, as the first few snowflakes began to fall. The Halidom had already been covered in a sheet of snow, but it hadn’t snowed again for quite some time since then. Lathna’s breath fogged up the window, clouding her view of the world outside. She pulled her face away, watching the fog slowly dissipate as the window equalized in temperature.

After a moment, she breathed against the window again, then with a gloved finger quickly drew a little smiley face in the fog where hers was in the reflection, before it disappeared once more. She giggled at the sight.

It was Dragonyule Eve, and Latha couldn’t wait to get her Yuletree.

A few quick knocks against her door alerted her, and she whirled her head around at the sound. Standing there was Curran and Heinwald, both bundled to go out in the snow, as she was.

“Ready to get that tree?” Curran asked, repositioning the axe on his shoulder, and ensuring the coil of rope was still looped on the handle.

Lathna nodded exuberantly, nearly running over to the door where the two men stood. She grabbed Curran’s free hand, and one of Heinwald’s, looking at the two of them with an excited grin.

And so they took off, into the light snow, Lathna’s eyes filled with wonder at the sight of the snowfall. Large, fluffy snowflakes drifted down from gray clouds above, swirling in the breeze before landing upon the ground in soft mounds. The trio’s boots crunched in the snow, leaving behind crisp footprints to be covered in downy snowflakes later. They remained in sight of the Halidom, so there was no fear of getting lost.

The conifers of the forest came into sight, dusted in the snow. Their evergreen needle leaves contrasted with pure white snow beautifully.

“Alright,” Curran began, “Let’s find that tree. You pick out whichever one you like, Lathna.”

Lathna nodded, squeezing Curran’s hand as her eyes began to scan the trees. They passed tree after tree, stopping for a moment at each to allow Lathna to deliberate over them. She would look over them, squint a little, thinking hard about each tree. And then, with a head shake, the three would continue.

A tree rose out of the snowfield in front of them, somewhat isolated from the rest. It was smaller, a little thinner than the rest in the field. Its branches were beginning to droop from the snow on top of them, as the flakes continued to fall, and fall. A tiny gasp passed from Lathna’s lips, as she let go of Curran and Heinwald’s hands and started towards the tree. Her eyes came to about the peak of the conifer. A wide smile formed upon her face.

As Curran and Hein approached, she turned to them. “This one!” she said, excitedly.

“Seems quite small,” Hein commented. “But that makes it all the easier to carry, I suppose.”

Curran lowered the axe from on his shoulder. “Stand back, Lath,” he said, then began to chop at the tree’s base.

Lathna bounced on her toes, as best as she could in snow boots, while Curran began to bind the tree in rope. When he finished, he hoisted the tree and axe over his shoulder.

“Ready to head back?”

She nodded, stepping through the snow, back in the direction of the Halidom.

Curran repositioned the tree on his shoulder, falling into step behind her, Hein beside him.

And they watched as Lathna remained a few steps ahead, kicking around and playing in the snow. Her soft giggles of happiness carried in the still air, warming enough for both of the men.

Hein’s hand moved to hold Curran’s free one. “I’m glad to see her so happy,” he murmured, softly.

“She deserves it,” Curran said. “She’s dealt with enough in her life already.”

Heinwald smiled, looking over at his partner with fondness. “I know. You’ve changed her life for the better, Curran. Anyone could deduce that.”

Curran chuckled. “Couldn’t of done it alone, Partner. We make a pretty good team.”

Crimson eyes shifted to look at the girl, giddy with delight in the snow, beginning to roll a snowball around in the puffy mounds on the ground. “I’m inclined to agree.”

“And…” she said, placing the last bauble on the branch, “It’s done!”

There were excess decorations from the Halidom’s Yuletree, which were brought into Lathna’s room so she could decorate her own. Red baubles hung from wire hooks on the branches, and a string of lights wrapped around the tree from the base to the peak. All that remained was the tree topper, a five-pointed star of gold and silver.

Curran picked up the ornament, handing it over to Lathna. “What about the star?”

Lathna gasped in surprise, and held her hands out for it. “I’ll put it on, then it’ll be done!”

Gently, carefully, she lifted the star to place on the tip of the tree. She repositioned it a few times, ensuring its safety, then took a few steps back. A bright smile was upon her face, as she gazed upon the tree she worked so hard to decorate. Her hands clasped together in front of her chest. She felt warm, jubilant. Lathna could rarely think of a time where she felt this happy.

The room flickered from the lamp, placed beside the tree. It caught the shimmer and shine of the ornaments, lighting up the room with a cozy light.

The door slowly pushed open. Hein had returned from changing out of snow gear, carrying a silver tray with three mugs upon it. Steam rose from the brims, dissipating into the air, and fogging up Heinwald’s glasses.

“It’s a marvel that I didn’t bump into anyone or any walls,” He commented, precariously making his way over to the two in the corner of the room. As he gently set the tray down, he removed his glasses, beginning to clean them off with his robe. “Should I have done so, it would’ve resulted in quite the tragedy.”

“There was already one, Hein,” Curran said, picking up one of the mugs and handing it to Lathna. “You missed decorating the tree.”

“Was my procuring of the ornaments not enough?” Hein rebutted, making his way to sit on the floor beside Curran. “I even went and made you hot chocolate. I very well could’ve come back without risking a burn or some other injury, but I did so anyway.”

Curran rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Tell it to the fudge,” he said, gesturing towards Lathna, who was blowing over the hot chocolate in her mug.

She looked up from over it, smiling. “It’s okay, Heinwald,” she said, softly, hardly a breath above a whisper. “I appreciate all you’ve done. Thank you, both of you.”

“There is no need for thanks,” Curran said. “It was our pleasure to help you out with the tree.”

“Precisely. I do not go into the snow willingly very often. But…it was fun to do so.” Hein reached for his own mug, blowing on the drink himself, before taking a sip.

Lathna nodded in response. “I thought so too.”

She grasped her mug, feeling the warmth of the drink seep through the ceramic and onto her normally chilly hands. Lathna stared into the cup, her reflection muddled in the chocolate and milk swirled together. And as she stared, she saw herself-- She hadn’t been scared of herself since she came to the Halidom, months ago. She no longer saw the dragon within, saw herself as a key to the gate of the Ancient One. She was Lathna. And she was here, with Curran and Heinwald, on Dragonyule Eve, and she was happy. She felt tears well in the corner of her eyes. Happy tears.

She set her mug down, nearly running to catch both Curran and Heinwald into a big hug, as the happy tears began to run down her cheeks in fluid streams. “Thank you,” She mumbled, muffled from stuffing her face into Curran’s shoulder, pulling both of the men closer. “This is the happiest I’ve ever been.”

At first, Curran was surprised, but after hearing Lathna, he pulled her and Heinwald closer. “You’re welcome, Lath. I’m happy we could do that for you.”

He kissed the top of her head, softly, then reached over to kiss Heinwald’s cheek. “I’ve gotta say, this has been one great Dragonyule.”

And as Heinwald nodded in agreement, the three stayed, holding each other as the night fell, and the tree glistened on.

Curran pulled the blanket aside, cradling Lathna against him where she had fallen asleep. Her breaths were soft, deep in slumber, exhausted from the day’s activities and the emotions she felt.

He gently set her in her bed, then pulled the blanket up to her chin, tucking her in. “Do you have the bear?” he whispered, looking over at Heinwald, standing by the door.

In Hein’s hands was a stuffed bear, soft as mink, with velvety ears and a purple bow. Around the bear’s paw was a tag, addressed to Lathna, from Curran and Heinwald. He approached the bed, softly setting the bear next to the sleeping girl, ensuring he would not wake her. When he was satisfied with the bear’s position, leaning against the pillows, he took a few steps back. “If this one starts to fall apart,” Hein began, voice soft like Curran’s, “You best fix it, and not leave its head split open for the stuffing to fall out.”

Curran walked over by the tree, picking the lamp up, and dimming it. “It was a mistake, Hein. I kept forgetting.”

“And I will remind you every single day until you fix it.”

A small chuckle escaped Curran. “Bah humbug, huh?”

Hein rolled his eyes. “My concerns over Lathna’s state of her toys has nothing to do with my perception of Dragonyule and its festivities, Curran.”

“Twas a joke, once again.”

“You’re insufferable. Now, hurry, lest we risk her waking up too soon.” Hein began towards the door, opening it slowly, and gesturing for Curran to walk out first.

And before Curran stepped through the doorway, he turned back towards Lathna. One last check before they left. She was still sound asleep, cozy in her bed.

“Happy Dragonyule, Lathna,” he whispered, fully stepping out of the room.

“Happy Dragonyule as well,” Hein whispered towards her too, softly closing the door.

The girl would sleep soundly that night, no frightening dreams would wake her from her slumber. As long as that bear remained in her presence, the sigil Heinwald incorporated into its stuffing would continue to work.

Hein smiled to himself, reaching over to grab Curran’s hand. And as their steps echoed through the halls of the Halidom, the noise bouncing around the walls, they found themselves in a space of comfortable peace; for in a few hours time, the halls would be bustling once more, in preparation for the Dragonyule festivities in the morning.

#dragonyule2019 #dragalia lost #curran #heinwald #lathna #matt writes

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spirituality-and-alien-contact · 5 years ago

Text

There is a New Messenger sent by God in The World Today.

This is Marshall Vian Summers at Encampment 2016. Marshall is the wisest and most humble person I have ever met . I needed to meet him to find out for myself if it was in fact true that he be a Messenger from God. I met him and through my experience know in my heart that he indeed has been sent from God and the Angelic Assembly for these times and the times ahead.

The world is entering major thresholds and humanity is not prepared for them. That is why God has spoken again to this tiny world and has sent a Messenger to communicate and express the will of the Creator given by the Angelic Assembly who watch over this world to the Messenger himself.

The Messenger is a vehicle of communication sent from the Angelic Assembly to this world to receive and then to give. The Message has been given by God to the Angelic Assembly then to the Messenger and then from the Messenger given to the whole world. I like to think of this Mysterious process as a process of giving and receiving. The New Message and all its Revelations from God, has been given from the ONE[God] to the Many[The Angelic Assembly] to the One[The Messenger-Marshall Vian Summers] to the many[Humanity].

“Life is communication and communication is life. Your life is communication and is not merely the sharing of little ideas from one separated mind to another. Communication is far greater for communication creates life and extends life and within this is all joy and fulfillment. Within this is the depth of all meaning. Here darkness and light mix together and cease their separation. Here all opposites blend and melt into each other. This is the unity of all life.” Step 153

Out of the many thresholds the world and humanity will be facing, there are TWO which are the most significant and will effect the world as never seen before in the history of mankind. The first, is the Great Waves of Change and the other is an Intervention by races from beyond this world who are here for their own benefit. The signs of these TWO major events can be seen everywhere if you have the eyes to see and the ears to hear. For example: Climate Change, political and social unrest, religious division and violence and many other unexplained events happening all around the globe due to the mental and physical environments and the influence they have on people, places and things. Thousands, if not millions of people being abducted and missing without a trace never to be seen again or being found dead with no plausible explanation. This abduction phenomenon first began in National Parks and remote places but is now occurring in cities with many people around. Degradation of the world and of others because of greed, corruption and profit. Judgments leading to condemnation of others because of their skin color or because of the culture they have been born into. Condemnation of leaders and government officials and others whom you don’t agree with. The killing and dying off of many species in nature leading to the extinction of some and more on the way. Increase in hurricanes and tornadoes, severe winds, severe droughts, flooding on a scale never seen before etcetera, etcetera. You can just feel deep within that the world is not the same world as we knew as children. Judgment and condemnation, idealism, fixed beliefs and blind faith must all be unlearned if a new way of thinking and living can be introduced to the world. A world which is changing in so many ways and this change accelerating soon to be beyond our comprehension if not already. Here, the question is how and where can one learn how to change his or her thinking and behavior for the betterment of others and oneself? The answer is given in the “ The New Message from God” and “The Steps To Knowledge” among many other individual Revelations received by Marshall Vian Summers. Here one can truly learn and experience why they are here and what it is they must do and who they must meet. It is a Journey like no other for God is calling you out of our sleep to respond to a world in great need. We all can and must learn how to truly do this by taking the Steps to Knowledge for time is of the essence and taking the Steps can save us so much time…time we don’t have.

The next decade is going to be the most decisive one for humanity and will determine for the most part humanities destiny based on the choices we all make as individuals and as nations. There was a Revelation received December 31, 2019 entitled “The Great Turning Point for Humanity” and given appropriately for the times ahead to the Messenger, Marshall Vian Summers and I feel it is only appropriate to share it here with you now. It is alarming but must be heard and responded to if humanity is to have any chance for surviving the Great Waves of Change and emerge into the Greater Community as a free and sovereign race.

This is a gift and one of many given to the world from God through the Angelic Assembly to Marshall Vian Summers. I pray you open it and let it fill your heart and mind for the times ahead so that you may hear its calling and feel the urgency it expresses.

The Messenger will not be in the world much longer and he is “seeking certain people who will be amongst the first to respond. To everyone else, he must wait. He cannot be engaged there. He will call certain people to their greater purpose and destiny. And some of them will fail to respond. He will have to face ill health and lack of support all along the way because his journey has been so demanding.” from the book The New Messenger This book which was received by Marshall is an extraordinary book about the life of the Messenger and I feel will be read by millions in the times ahead. For once the Great Waves hit with their force and shake up humanity the only course of action by those who still live within the earth will be to unite and come to understand how our thinking and behaviors created the circumstances and turmoil we all face now which must change out of necessity in the future. The Revelation given by God to humanity will give to us what we seek. The truth of who we are and why we are all here. It will give to us the way out of the jungle of separation by giving us something important to do which can fulfill the need of our souls if our work is true, sincere and honest.

“The Messenger has to accept that he will go unrecognized and that his Message will not be appreciated by so many people. He will have to face the ridicule and the condemnation of those who are drawn but cannot receive. He will have to see the blind rejection of people who are attached to their philosophies, their theologies and their religious beliefs, who are blinded by their firm and fixed notions. They do not even recognize God’s Emissary when he arrives on Earth. Even if they are religious, or consider themselves to be such, they cannot even recognize the Messenger.”

We are not alone in this world. If we only could remember who sent us and why… we would take care of ourselves and each other with more kindness, compassion and tolerance. This is why God has spoken again…to help us remember.

So many of us are missing out on what life communicates to us and what it can give each of us. We are not hearing the signal because we are swimming in the noise . So many of us are blinded by our own idealism, our own philosophy, our own theologies and religious beliefs and blinded by our firm and fixed notions that we cannot see the greater reality right in front of us. We have been blinded by our own ignorance born of our own arrogance. This takes away from us the ability to see the true reality in front of us. For reality is far greater than imagination or fantasy!! When we are blinded by these we refuse to look outside the box towards a greater reality among us which exists beyond our intellect. To turn our back on life and the reality it holds for us is to turn away from the gifts it has to give each of us and this is a great tragedy; for in this blindness we live a life of no true meaning or value! So yes…there is a New Messenger in the world and God has spoken again. Yes you can say this is false and is blasphemy but who are you to say when God can or cannot speak again? Think about this question sincerely!! If you walk around it enough you will find as I did that we know very little about anything especially when it comes down to a Greater Plan of God. I challenge you who read this to question your life, your faith and your belief. For in these times ahead no religion that was given in the past can prepare anyone for a future so unlike the past which lies in front of ALL of us. It is too great! And for these great events coming we will need the greatness that lives within us to come out and express itself so that it may spread to others and be a part of every ones lives in the future!!

We are but a small part of Creation and live in such a beautiful world full of Mystery and Life. We are all a part of the inclusion of life and have a relationship with it.

Steps To Knowledge The Book of Inner Knowing

Step 153- My Source Wishes to Express Itself Through Me.

“YOU WERE CREATED TO BE AN EXPRESSION OF YOUR SOURCE. You were created to be an extension of your Source. You were created to be a part of your Source. Your life is communication, for communication is life. Communication is the extension of Knowledge. It is not merely the sharing of little ideas from one separated mind to another. Communication is far greater, for communication creates life and extends life, and within this is all joy and fulfillment. Within this is the depth of all meaning. Here darkness and light mix together and cease their separation. Here all opposites blend and melt into each other. This is the unity of all life.

ALLOW YOURSELF, THEN, TO EXPERIENCE YOURSELF as a vehicle of communication, and know what you truly wish to communicate will be fully expressed as well, for the self that you genuinely are is an extension of the Self that is life itself. In this, you will be completely affirmed and life will be affirmed around you. Your gifts will be received and integrated by life, for giving of this nature can only yield a greater result, beyond the comprehension of humanity.

REMIND YOURSELF UPON THE HOUR that you were meant to express the will of your Source. Within your two practice periods today, allow yourself to enter stillness and peace once again. Allow yourself to be an open vehicle through which life may flow freely, through which life may express itself today. ” Step 153 from the book Steps to Knowledge.

I will leave you with this: You were sent into this world with a purpose! You must find this purpose for it holds the great meaning and truth of your life and why you are here! May you come to see the Messenger for who he is always seeing and knowing that the Message that he has given is greater than he. The Message is always greater than the Messengers!

May the Presence be with you and you with IT.

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gerryconway · 6 years ago

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Stan the Man

Since the news of Stan Lee's death I've wanted to write something meaningful about my own feelings for him, what he represented to me as a creator and as a human being, and what kind of impact his life had on my life. For many reasons (I was dislocated by the Woolsley Fire and haven't fully settled down since our return) I haven't had a chance to give such an in-depth appraisal much thought. Honestly, I doubt I could do a full appraisal of Stan's importance in my life even under the best of circumstances. His work and presence as an icon and as a human being helped form who I am today. To write a full appreciation of Stan I'd have to write my autobiography.

Among my most vivid childhood memories is my discovery of the Fantastic Four with issue 4, the first appearance of the Sub-Mariner. I was nine years old, and I'd been a comic book reader for years at that point. I knew about Superman, I knew about Batman, I'd read the early issues of Justice League. I was a compulsive reader, voracious (still am)-- devoting hours a day to books and stories and comics and even my parents' newspapers. (Both my parents were avid readers. My dad read science fiction, my mom loved mysteries.) I vividly recall the astonished joy I felt when my mom took me to our local library and got me my first library card. I was six, I think, and the reality of a roomful of books just for kids seemed like a gift from heaven. I won all the reading awards at school-- any competition for reading the most books in a year was over as far as I was concerned the first week. By nine, I'd already graduated from "age appropriate" books for pre-teens to Heinlein's juveniles, Asimov's robot stories, and the collected Sherlock Holmes stories of Arthur Conan Doyle. I was a total reading nerd.

And then came Fantastic Four.

I've never been hit by lightning but I have to imagine the shock might be similar to what I experienced reading that early adventure of Reed Richards, Sue Storm, her kid brother Johnny, and Ben Grimm. If you weren't a comic book reader at that time you cannot imagine the impact those stories had. There's nothing comparable in the modern reader's experience of comics-- nothing remotely as transformative. (To be fair, I suppose both "The Dark Knight Returns" and "Watchmen" come close, but both remarkable works built on prior tradition and were perhaps a fulfillment of potential and creative expectations. The Fantastic Four was _sui generis_.) Over a series of perhaps five issues, a single year, Stan and Jack Kirby transformed superhero comics in an act of creative alchemy similar to transmuting lead into gold, and just as unlikely.

They also changed my life. Because Stan credited himself as writer and Jack as artist, he opened my nine year old eyes to a possibility I'd never really considered before: I could be something called a comic book "writer" or "artist."

Think about that, for a moment. Before Stan regularly began giving credits to writers and artists, comics (with a few exceptions) were produced anonymously. Who wrote and drew Superman? Who wrote and drew Donald Duck? Who wrote and drew Archie? Who knew? (Serious older fans knew, of course, but as far as the average reader or disinterested bystander knew, most comics popped into existence spontaneously, like flowers, or in some eyes, weeds.)

Stan did more than create a fictional universe, more than create an approach to superhero storytelling and mythology-- he created the concept of comic book story creation itself. Through his promotion of the Marvel Bullpen, with his identification of the creative personalities who wrote and drew Marvel's books, he sparked the idea that writing and drawing comics was something ordinary people did every day. (Yes, yes, to a degree Bill Gaines had done something similar with EC Comic's in-house fan pages, but let's be honest, EC never had the overwhelming impact on a mass audience that Marvel had later.) He made the creation of comic book stories something anyone could aspire to do _as a potential career_.

That's huge. It gave rise to a generation of creative talent whose ambition was to create comics. Prior to the 1960s, writing and drawing comic books wasn't something any writer or artist generally aspired to (obviously there were exceptions). Almost every professional comic book artist was an aspiring newspaper syndicated strip artist or an aspiring magazine illustrator. (Again, there were exceptions.) Almost every professional comic book writer was also a writer for pulp magazines or paperback thrillers. (Edmond Hamilton, Otto Binder, Gardner Fox, so many others-- all wrote for the pulps and paperbacks.) Comic book careers weren't something you aimed to achieve; they were where you ended up when you failed to reach your goal.

Even Stan, prior to the Fantastic Four, felt this way. It's an essential part of his legend: he wanted to quit comics because he felt it was stifling his creative potential, but his wife, Joan, suggested an alternative. Write the way you want to write. Write what you want to write. Write your own truth.

He did, and the rest, as the saying goes, is history.

When I picked up that issue of Fantastic Four, I was a nine year old boy with typical nine year old boy fantasies about what my life would be. Some were literal fantasies: I'd suggested to my dad a year or so earlier that we could turn the family car into the Batmobile and he could be Batman and I could be Robin and we could fight crime. After he passed on that idea I decided we could be like the Hardy family-- he could be a detective and I could be his amateur detective son, either Frank or Joe. Later I became more realistic and figured I could become an actor who played Frank or Joe Hardy in a Hardy Boy movie. In fact, by nine, my most realistic career fantasies involved either becoming an actor or an astronaut, and of the two, astronaut seemed like the more practical choice.

Stan and Marvel Comics gradually showed me a different path, a different possible career. By making comic books cool, by making them creatively enticing, and by making the people who created comics _real_ to readers-- Stan created the idea of a career creating comics.

Stan alone did this. We can argue over other aspects of his legacy-- debate whether he or his several collaborators were more important in the creation of this character or that piece of mythology-- but we can't argue about this. Without Stan's promotion of his fellow creatives at Marvel there would have been no lionizing of individual writers and artists in the 1960s. Without that promotion there would have been no visible role models for younger, future creators to emulate. Yes, some of us would still have wanted to create comics-- but I'd argue that the massive explosion of talent in the 1970s and later decades had its origin in Stan's innovative promotion of individual talents during the 1960s.

Nobody aspires to play in a rock band if they've never heard of a rock band. The Marvel Bullpen of the 1960s was comicdom's first rock band.

That was because of Stan.

For me, Stan's presence in the world gave direction and purpose to my creative life, and my creative life has given meaning and purpose to my personal life. I am the man I am today, and I've lived the life I've lived, because of him. From the age of nine on, I've followed the path I'm on because of Stan Lee. (So much of my personal life is entangled in choices I've made as a result of my career it's impossible for me to separate personal from professional.)

My personal relationship with Stan, which began when I was seventeen years old, is more complex and less enlightening. It's a truism your heroes always disappoint you, and I was often disappointed by Stan. Yet I never stopped admiring him for his best qualities, his innate goodness, his creative ambition and unparalleled instincts. People often asked me, "What's Stan really like?" For a long time I had a cynical answer, but in recent years I realized I was wrong. The Stan you saw in the media was, in fact, the real Stan: a sweet, earnest, basically decent man who wanted to do the right thing, who was as astounded by his success as anyone, and who was just modest enough to mock himself to let us know he was in on the joke. I imagine Stan was grateful for the luck of being the right man at the right place at the right time-- but it's true he _was_ the right man. No one else could have done what he did. The qualities of ego and self-interest that I sometimes decried in him were the same qualities needed for him to fulfill the role he played. In typical comic book story telling, his weaknesses were his strengths. And his strengths made him a legend and a leader for all who came after him-- particularly me.

This has been a rambling appreciation, I know. Scattered and disjointed. Like I said, trying to describe the impact Stan had on my life would require an autobiography.

When I started thinking about Stan in light of his death I realized, for the first time (and isn't this psychologically interesting?) that Stan was born just a year after my father. When I met him, as a teenager struggling with my own father as almost all teenage boys do, Stan probably affected me as a surrogate father figure. Unlike my own father, Stan was a symbol of the possibilities of a creative life. He was a role model for creative success, like other older men in my life at the time. But unlike them, he'd been a part of my life since I was nine years old. A surrogate father in fantasy before he partly became one in reality.

Now he's gone. Part of me goes with him, but the greater part of me, the life I've led and built under his influence, remains.

Like so much of the pop culture world we live in, I'm partly Stan's creation.

'Nuff said.

#stan lee #comics #superhero #pop culture #Spider-Man #punisher #creators

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tipaokaykoe · 5 years ago

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Chapter 1

Baraa Kills’s Journal Entry 1:

My name is Baraa Kills, I live on the streets of Shoneen, on the planet Maanga.

It might be weird for some of you reading this to hear me mentioning the planet that I live on but it’s a pretty small planet compared to others in the milky way galaxy, it almost doesn’t qualify as a planet but because of the booming population and advancements in technology, the galactic seats have decided that we shall hold the title of a planet but that is beside my story.

What is my story? Well I live on the street as I have mentioned before, so let’s begin there, how did I Baraa Kills the son of one of the most brilliant scientific minds Shaadi Kills, end up here? well it all started because I wanted to pursue my dream as a musician, my mom, and my dad were opposed to the idea but they have said that they would approve and would support me monetarily if SuperComputerYaaoi3000 would approve that it’s the best possible way to live my life.

Now you see I have to explain something since you don’t know anything about my planet and this whole thing is kind of new to you, the reason why my planet is so advanced is that we have basically created supercomputers and those Supercomputers basically help us make the best decisions possible so anything from “which flavor of ice cream would I personally enjoy best right now?” To “who is the best party to run the government?” and the first and arguably the best supercomputer is SuperComputerYaaoi3000, it’s kind of like a magic 8 ball but what he says is actually the best possible answer but I hate that piece of junk, almost as much as I hate its creator, my dad Shaadi.

but I had to go in front of it, at first I was worried, SuperComputerYaaoi3000 is usually reserved for government officials, celebrities and the rich alike, my parents who had some wealth mainly acquired through my dad who was one of the contributors of the creation of supercomputers found a way to get me in.

Let me describe it for you, it’s a bronze statue of a hand with long protruding fingers that reach the ceiling from how long they are, it’s holding a monitor that fits so neatly in Its hand almost perfect the way everything fits, it also has a base black circular disk with a plaque on the front of it, that says “SuperComputerYaaoi3000 Born in 467CBA” I guessed that its weird for a Computer to have a birthday and a name but I didn’t pay it a lot of mind.

I was also looking around the room while this maintenance guy set up SuperCompterYaaoi3000 we were on a roof of some sort, the room was all white, there was no corner to this room, great no corner to run to, I look up and the ceiling is all white and then I look at the ground where there were black and white checkered glossy tiles that go on for what seems like forever in this huge room, this room is as bland as it could get so the checkered tiles seemed out of place but scientist made this and they are not much of an interior designers, I look behind me and my parents are there, they don’t bring me much comfort.

My dad wants me to pursue his dream, he thinks I have his smarts but ever since I was a little kid, I wanted to become a musician but while my dad has never explicitly said no to the music, he would look at me differently when I said I wanted to pursue it as a career but that didn’t matter to me, ever since I was a little kid people have had very high expectations of me, “you have to be like your dad” they would say or “you’re the future of this planet, everyone depends on you” others would say, while it might have seemed to them like they were encouraging me, they were slowly crushing whatever I had inside, I was never going to fit inside the huge shoes that my dad has left for me, and while I accepted that fact, I was afraid to disappoint and I totally shouldn’t feel like this.

So I started doing music anyways but underground, which in my country is very rare, people take the supercomputer bullshit to a whole extreme, sleeping at an exact time and waking up at an exact time not because they feel like it but because Yaaoi3000 has said that it’s the best way to become as productive as possible, nightlife has declined ever since, only a few bars are open during the night, but that’s not even the biggest issue Yaaoi3000 has also recommended a ban on alcohol which if you have not been following, anything that comes out of the speakers of Yaaoi3000 is just followed no questions asked, Yaaoi3000 is almost like a governing authority in that way, all these factors have contributed to the decline of the nightlife scene in Shouneen.

But then I started doing shows for this bar in the outskirts of the city called “Saaki”, at first the bar owner was hesitant because he thought he was going to have to pay me but I told him that I'll play the first couple of shows for free, and of course, he couldn’t decline that offer, he had nothing to lose, the bar was already on its last leg, and as unexpected people started flooding in, at first there were only a few people in the bar but as I started to sneak out so I can perform a lot more people started showing up to Saaki So they can watch my show, the nightlife scene started to boom again.

My dad didn’t like that and I was found out because Yaaoi3000 contributed a recent drop by 0.1% in production to people being exhausted which then lead to an investigation which then lead to me being arrested and Saaki being shut down due to it selling alcohol but because my dad is so huge I got off easy, of course, I refused to follow him out of that police department unless he gets everyone out and to protect his own Reputation and nothing else he got everyone was involved in the raid on Saaki out, which then lead us to me being here.

Yaaoi3000 basically snitched on me and now I was under its mercy again, and “how cruel will he be this time?” I asked myself so I sit and wait for about 5 minutes waiting waiting waiting “okay, it’s all set up” the maintenance guy says to me dad “okay son stand up in front of the SuperComputerYaaoi3000” my dad says to me in a tune almost like he knows the answer like maybe he asked before because he seems happy about all of this which is unusual given the circumstances.

I step right up to the front of the Plaque “Baraa Kills, I’m SuperComputerYaaoi3000 welcome, ask me anything” Yaaoi3000 speaks from the speaker almost like a prisoner in digital world like he’s trapped and I’m just asking questions as part of a cruel experiment, Yaaoi3000 is so mono tuned despite the efforts to make it sound human “SupercomputerYaaoi3000 am I going to succeed as a musician” I asked “I’ll make my calculations” said Yaaoi3000, it was just 5 seconds but it felt like a lifetime where I was waiting for an answer, Yaaoi is pretty definite, whatever it speaks it will not change, I was scared I wouldn’t like the answer, “No” Said Yaaoi3000 with that mono tuned voice “wha…..WHAT DO YOU MEAN!!!!!!????” I screamed at this machine the room was getting tense and I was getting angry “actually according to my calculations it would possibly be one of the worst decisions you can make, doing nothing would be even better than to go through with this” Yaaoi3000 said with the same tune that you would use to tell your kid that Santa doesn’t exist, but he wasn’t my parent and I wasn’t still getting gifts for Christmas “actually according to all my calculations I would result in a great tragedy that will be remembered years into the future” Yaaoi3000 said with the same tone as I stood there like a man that last all hope, I knew that this was going to make me a target because of such a grim prophecy but because it was only 4 of us in the room I looked back and I ran through the door while I looked back at the terrified faces of my mom and dad, I didn't know to do other than to run away as fast as I could

I ran down the building which was a bit confusing I took the elevator as soon as I was sure they were not following me, I found me an empty alleyway to sleep in it was scary the first couple of nights but then life came back to its rhythm I sleep morning wake up at night do my show and party, eat and repeat my parents don’t seem to matter anymore, and nightlife became my thing and no one else’s.

#sci-fi fantasy #story #fiction #jounral

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hollowandeceptivephilosophy · 5 years ago

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Snippets on Theological Issues Pt. 1

Inspired by the Zondervan Counterpoints Series

Miraculous Gifts

I’m a continuationist, though I only particularly expect to see gifts when the church/individual needs to be doing something radical. The performance of gifts in churches in “holding patterns” is not expected by me. (And to be fair, sometimes churches in a given society need to be in holding patterns, not every church is the church in Corinth). Church Growth

Generally not a fan. The Social Sciences are generally based on a non-Christian ideology and cannot be adapted by the Church without substantially subverting her message. (Aspects of the social sciences are cool and good, but the underlying presupposition is based upon assuming that the fallen world is the way the world actually is in an ontological sense; this is okay for handling pragmatic or day-to-day matters, but will result in the subversion of the church’s ability to genuinely condemn the world). On the other hand, churches often use “tradition” as an excuse to not actually answer the questions that people are raising today. This is bad and a violation of the great commissions. (Loudly answering the wrong questions is about as useless as softly answering (perhaps incorrectly) the right questions). Apologetics

I think apologetics is useful when it focuses on diffusing particular arguments against Christian Faith, I don’t really think it is useful beyond that. More particularly, I don’t think evidentialism works as a general model (because evidence is always in relation to given tradition of inquiry, there is no “neutral” evidence), and I don’t think presuppositionalism works either (because while God is in fact necessary for truth, in our intellects he is not, because our intellects cannot comprehend God and thus cannot rely upon him as a fundamental postulate in the way that the presuppositionalists would require; God stands at the end of the process of reasoning, wherein we recognize that the core ideas which we have been using all along only find their true meaning and source in him; but this is the opposite of presuppositional theory). The Reformed Epistemology position is probably the one that I’m closest too; but I don’t think foundationalism in the sense in which they work is terribly useful; our core concepts are inherited from the traditions in which we work, and while we have freedom to improvise within those traditions, we aren’t reliant upon some kind of foundational intuition in the way that the (limited) amount of reformed epistemology I’ve read implies. (Instead, the sense in which we have a general revelation of God is due to things inherent to anything which could be called a language and linguistically structured desire/sense of self/being-in-the-world; these things guide us towards “general revelation”, not some mysterious intuition. (Though, I entirely confess perhaps that’s what the Reformed Epistemology school has been driving at, in which case I’m quite close to them; and I have enormous respect for them regardless). Inerrancy

I accept that everything in the Bible is true in some sense, and is binding upon my thought and intellect. I cannot discard any part of the Bible as merely a product of its times, instead I must accept (and to a limit extent, join with) the long effort of my fellow Christians to understand the Bible as the Truth about the Word of God.

At the level of the text: I accept that the final revisions of the tradition were divinely inspired, and that what they say is normative for Christian faith and practice. While it is not accurate to say God “said” every part of the Bible, he certainly has endorsed every part and said a great deal of it (most of the Prophetic books, most of the Pentateuch etc.) Basically some parts God said, other parts he edited, other parts he published (if we are using the modern publishing process as an analogy). However, I also believe that what God is saying through the text usually is far more than what the original author was saying, and that there can be substantial tension with what the original author would have understood the text to mean. (But I think that about all texts; the original author and even the original community of interpretation do not necessarily exhaust or finally determine the meaning of a text; though their opinions are quite significant as they are the most fluent speakers of the idiom of a text [under normal circumstances]). However, God still chose this text as God’s text (in way not dissimilar to how he chose this people as God’s people) and therefore one must accept it as chosen by God and not something that can be ignored. So, while there can be tension between God’s intent and the author’s intent, there are limits to the sense in which there can be irreconcilable contradiction between the two. Law and Gospel

The Law is a form of Gospel, the Gospel is a form of Law. The differences between them are based upon the ontological differences inaugurated by Christ’s Life/Death/Resurrection, and the resulting epistemological differences.

(The Law kills only because the Law faces sin qua unredeemable and has to fight against it as an enemy; a contradiction only overcome by Christ who in being God could make those naturally enemies friends and children once more. But this is an ontological change, not merely an ethical or “conceptual” one). The differences between the ethical norms of “the Law” and the ethical norms of “the Gospel” are grounded in this ontological difference. (And thus, some precepts of the Old Testament do not apply to Christians, or at least are not necessary for Gentile Christians).

I also accept that the Church has the power to generate law, albeit the law that the Church generates is contingent and prudential, not necessarily true in all cases. (as all laws are)

The Law of the Church, to be legitimate, must also be grounded in the revelation of Christ and the new order of being he inaugurated.

Sanctification

I have a sufficiently sacramental theory of redemption that most of the sanctification debates don’t really interest me. I don’t really believe in a second work of the Holy Spirit (Other than, maybe Confirmation), I do believe that in every individual case of sin mature Christians can resist; but factually speaking due to corruptions of will or intellect patterns of sin tend to persist throughout the Christian life. (But I also believe in purgatory, so... I think everyone does get sanctified before heaven).

Christian Spirituality

I don’t really understand what this means, but insofar as I do understand... I think each major doctrinal loci properly speaking is a source of deep existential satisfaction, along with the scriptures and the Church (understood to encompass both the living and the dead). Both excessive individualism and excessive communalism will result in a failure to continue to seek God through Christ Jesus as the Center though, as all of these things only have coherence in that (and through our baptism). Divine Providence

God’s causal activity is not in competition with creatures, and is ontologically an entirely different sort of thing. (So God “divinely” causing things never precludes a creature “creaturely” causing them). (See Tanner and Aquinas) [God of course can use divine causation to, in one way or another, cause things in a creaturely sense, such events are what we usually call miracles. But this is not God’s typical mode of causal relation to things]. Thus while God causes everything that occurs, that tells us very little about how God governs the world. Otherwise I broadly accept a Molinist view: God chooses this world among other worlds he could have chosen to create. Since creating a world is, for God, a non-temporal event, he knows all that will happen in this world, but the things that happen are co-determined by the internal logic of this world (and indeed, God could not have created *this* world without creating *this* world with *this* internal logic).

Eternal Security

I don’t really believe in this, other than in the sense that God’s creation of the world includes the creation of all who will be saved. However, individual persons accept and reject God’s grace, and thereby accept or reject salvation that is available to them; and their position can change over time.

The Problem of Canaan

The major problems in this text are resolved by recognizing that the reformulation in “genocidal” or “holy war” language is a polemical response to Assyrian theories of religious war, and is meant to indicate that God fights powerfully for his people as well. The earlier layer of stories which the later author is adapting include elements which make it reasonably obvious imo (Such as Rahab, Gibeon, etc). that the actual conquest was not genocidal [and indeed, historically speaking probably resulted in the assimilation of many rural Canaanites as new tribes of Israel]. There is still some tensions (after all, God definitely endorses a war of conquest even if it was not historically genocidal, and is reformulated in more absolute terms later, and is apparently consenting to being used in what is functionally state propaganda.) But I do think that this is inherent to choosing to become a God to a particular people who exist in a particular place and time.

(So I guess my view is a mixture of: the events didn’t happen in this way, and the primary point is not ‘God wants you to kill Canaanites” but rather “God has destroyed powerful enemies utterly in the past, much like these empires claim they can do; he can give us triumph over Assyria”. And then of course there are the spiritual and Christological readings which add even more depth.)

#Theology

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dornishsphinx · 6 years ago

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Steps on the Bifrost

Merry Nagamas @andthenalittledash--here’s your @nagamas gift! Can I just say—thank you so much for mentioning you like Laslow/Azura, because it is one of my favourite Fates ships and you gave me the excuse to finally sit down and write about them! (This also got a lot longer than I expected it to, haha.)

[AO3 Link]

The Nohrian army advances along the path to a hollow victory, and even those who know there is a greater enemy left unchallenged cannot help but by swept along by the tides of war, and the circumstances chosen for them.

Anankos had barely stopped toying with Takumi’s shell when she fled the throne room, great slashes of sapphire already beginning to rip their way up her arms and crawl their way across her face. She should have realised that her beloved would follow her, but some part of her, deep and cold and chosen second too many times before, had presumed he’d stay at his lord’s side. It would have been a cruel parting to be sure, but no matter the hours she’d agonised over the comfort or kiss she might have given him, she still had not the words to say goodbye.

Even so, it was his arms she found herself in when she toppled over, exhausted; a mockery of a dip, like this was just another evening of dance practice. His clothes soaked through where her body touched his, and when she peered up at him through eyes half-shut in pain, she saw that his face was horror-struck.

“Hey. Smile for me, won’t you?” she asked, before he could demand an explanation. Her own smile was bright as she could make it. “That’s what you always ask of me, isn’t it?”

His face was still desperate as he balanced her with one arm and started rummaging through his pockets like his life depended on it. Medicines were useless in the case of curses, as she’d been told when she was a child and had asked why she couldn’t let the water dance in a constant rhythm, but Azura couldn’t find the energy within her to make him stop, nor the heart.

“Smile for me. Please,” she said, with gentle insistence.

Inigo smiled, though his eyes were glimmering and it was clearly forced. A lot of his smiles were, and she mourned that she wouldn’t see a real one before it was all over, but it was better than nothing.

“That’s right. Lovely.”

***

“Did you ever think about what you’d name your children?”

The copse of trees muffled the sounds of camp around them, creating the illusion they were, if not alone, cut off from everyone else. Laslow paused, still bent over with the laces of his dancing slipper only half-tied.

“I never really considered such a thing,” he said. He finished the knot, flexed his feet, and, satisfied, straightened back up. “Though I suppose…”

He considered, for a long moment.

“Soleil.”

“Soleil?” The name was unfamiliar to her. “It’s pretty, but why that name?”

Laslow stood. He moved his right foot behind him and let his whole body lean back onto it, stretching his arms out to the sides and up, in a wide, circular arc. His hands, palms upwards, halted level with his head.

“The soleil is a movement from a certain school of dance back home.” He remained in the position for a moment longer before letting his arms drop and stepping back into a normal stance. “It symbolises being bathed in sunlight, or just the sun in general. I’ve always liked it.”

Back home, again, with no name. The urge to ask him where his home was grabbed at her yet again, stronger this time, but she stopped herself. He couldn’t tell her about this mysterious back home, just as she couldn’t tell him about Valla, be it of old or be it of the ruin beneath their feet.

“It’s always a pleasure to see the sun rise again, after all. How about you?”

Azura ignored all the old family names that occurred to her and chose another: “Shigure.” It had always struck her as a good name.

“Shigure?”

She smiled. “A light shower of rain.”

“My, it seems we truly are fated. What do you say to Rainbow for our third?”

Even as she joined him in laughter, she couldn’t help but recall that there was a Vallite name that would have been perfect for such a theme: Iris, after one of Valla’s first queens.

“What’s with the sudden curiosity?” he asked. “Interested in starting a family?”

She sent him a coy smile. Laslow’s cheeks burnt red and he averted his gaze, but then a wistful look came over him.

“You know,” he said, voice melancholy, “I lost my true family when I was a child. I was able to find something resembling it, but it’s not the same.” His face, if still a little embarrassed, was soft when he looked back over at her. “It would be nice, to create one together.”

She considered telling him she’d lost her family too, but given that he was retainer to a man who called himself her brother, that path would have led to nothing but more questions she couldn’t answer.

“I never really felt as though I belonged with the Nohrians, nor the Hoshidans,” she said instead. It was a poor substitute, but true enough, in its own way. “Not like Corrin does. Having a family together would be nice, I think.”

Laslow smiled; she couldn’t help returning it. It fell off his face, though, and an odd expression replaced it.

“Did I ever tell you that I come from somewhere far away? Very far.” He hesitated, clearly formulating what he was going to say next carefully. “If I were to go back, I would never be able to return. Would you—would you want to go with me?”

It was an unexpected question; the surprise must have shown on her face, because his blush spread even further over his cheeks and he stammered as he quickly rushed to explain himself.

“You don’t have to, of course—it’s just that, since you told me you don’t really feel like you fit in Nohr and Hoshido, perhaps we could make a fresh start? You, me, however many Soleils or Shigures or Rainbows we’ll have. We could visit my parents—my other parents—they’d be there too, and I’m so sure you’d like them.”

The look on his face was so tentative that her heart ached. For a moment, she fantasised about what it could have been like in a world where she might have made the same offer—offered even more than he could. But becoming royalty of Valla, that ruin with little chance of restoration, was more a curse than anything else now.

The wind rippled through the trees.

“That sounds lovely,” she said.

Laslow breathed out beside her, but before he could speak again she started to hum an old Vallite tune all the talk of the weather had reminded her of; it had once been a thanksgiving to Anankos, so she skipped over the verses of praise and onto how the dragon’s tears had first met with the fires of creation to forge the first bridge to the world above. (The existence of Valla was implicit, something so fundamentally understood mentioning it by name was unnecessary; it was just here.)

Laslow began to sway with the rhythm, and a few bars in, he began to dance.

***

Azura had never been close to her Nohrian family, in the literal as well as metaphorical sense. As the campaign wore on, however, that which Azura had always believed, but hoped was inaccurate—that the Hoshidans had little regard for her either—became a certainty. Kindness, likely performed on Queen Mikoto’s behalf and out of some sense of charity, was not closeness. It helped to think that way anyway, now that she was fighting on the side that had killed Takumi and were likely to slay the others too.

Still, if there had been a distance with Queen Mikoto’s own children, the average Hoshidan soldier cared even less for her wellbeing; she was nothing but another Nohrian now that Corrin had defected, as had been made clear to her when they’d torn her from the castle at Shirasagi and tried leaving her corpse at Fort Dragonfall as a message. (They were the same in theory, the two of them, hostages to the light and the dark, but it was always going to be Corrin’s choices that mattered, not hers.)

The lance fighters bearing down on her, venom in their eyes and curses on their lips, were not the first Hoshidans to try and rip her apart, but it was looking more and more certain they’d be the last. She considered, briefly, sapping their will to fight through song. There may have been no time left to stop the momentum of their thrusts, even if she were to relax their hearts enough to stop beating, and it might have been yet another waste of the pendant’s power, but still, even knowing it was of no use, she curled around herself and the stone on her chest, and would have begun to sing—

But there was a thicket, now. She looked on in confusion, slowly unfolding out of her defensive stance. The branches twisted around the soldiers like tentacles of some great octopus. They shouted and struggled as it devoured them, tangled in the thorns.

“They’re going to get out,” said Laslow, behind her. She turned. His hands were rooted in the earth and his voice was urgent and low. “It won’t hold them much longer.”

She stared at him; she couldn’t help it. His eyes were downcast, his hands and body trembling, as though he was unused to using the veins. It had truly been a secret then, from everybody, not just from her.

She turned, in a daze, and with a swipe of her lance, the skirmish was over. (Corrin would likely not approve, but Corrin didn’t know what it was Jakob did in the aftermath of battle, nor that Laslow had the dragon’s blood, nor the true depth of Xander’s emotions, nor the woman her mother had truly been. This would be one thread of a wide web of secrets and lies and deceptions; nothing, really.)

Laslow gasped and let go. The thicket receded, slowly and at an ambling pace, like it was an animal that had lost interest in the humans playing with it. She moved to kneel beside him, the movement half a stumble in the rush to get over to him. She snatched up his right hand with her own red-stained ones. There was dirt under his fingernails—he hadn’t taken care when he’d plunged them into the ground, it seemed—and even now, his arms were shaking. He gently touched her face with his other hand, its faint tremors all the more obvious when they were against her skin. Their eyes met for a long moment.

“They were going to kill you,” he said, the response to an unasked question.

They looked at one another for a moment longer before she kissed him, fleeting but without haste, and left the matter at that, helping one another to their feet and moving onward to the rest of the enemies they’d been tasked with eliminating. She wasn’t one to pry. She’d have been the worst kind of hypocrite if she was.

Still, when the battle was done, after they’d both remained silent on the subject of Hoshidan combatants found dead with deep scratches all over their corpses and they lay tangled together themselves, Laslow asleep, she lay awake with thoughts darting around her head like shoals of fish, this way and that. Her eyes idly tracked the veins which ran blue down his wrists and into his freshly-scrubbed hands.

A dozen thoughts had occurred to her, though only one had stayed lodged in her mind all this time; the first, in fact, that had sprung to mind when she’d seen his hands buried in the soil.

He’d once told her that he wasn’t supposed to exist in her world, though he couldn’t tell her why he came to be there, or how. She’d told him she understood, and she indeed had done, since she was under a similar obligation.

Maybe—

She touched his wrist lightly, just over the blue veins, and felt him come awake.

***

Once, when she had been the most wretched child among dozens of wretched children imprisoned within the circular walls of the royal keep at Windmire, Azura had experienced the most curious dream. Figures dressed in Vallite robes of the purest white had crowded around her in a version of Valla that no longer existed, each and every one vowing, with all the zeal of a holy mission, to ensure her happiness. They had enveloped her with such kindness and good cheer that when she awoke, her chest had felt light for the first time in months.

Beneath the open sky in a world at war, it had been a surprise to experience the dream once again: she was older now, after all, and had thought herself to have shrugged off the childish need for false comfort. The old figures had appeared before her tiny form once more—she’d still been a child in this new dream; it had felt natural in the way everything in dreams comes naturally—and a man, young and handsome, had kissed her on the forehead and promised a lifetime of smiles before sweeping her into one of the dances she’d been taught before the devastation, the traditional choral accompaniment that could not possibly exist in a reality where there were barely enough uncorrupted Vallites to form a duet soaring so clear and strong that her dream-self knew they could hear it in the world above.

What she had shivered at in daylight, even as it had felt natural in the dream in the way everything in dreams feels natural, was that the figures surrounding them were as distant and illusory as the soldiers that haunted Valla’s remnants, and the song to which they’d danced had included those verses she had suppressed in her memory, praise of the great Anankos echoing all around them over and over and over.

***

“I’ve taken stranger leaps of faith,” was Laslow’s only response.

She held his hand in her own, her fingers entwined with his. The water was hers to command, for however much longer she had; it would have taken and protected Laslow quite ably had she asked it, but she knew her touch would soothe any fears of drowning he might have had.

She pulled them through the water easily. At first, they were boneless as turtles gliding along a jet stream, but then she pulled them through faster, and faster, until they were darting down and down with such speed and grace that she imagined a current in their wake.

When they emerged the other end, falling out of the water in the same manner one might have fallen into it in the world above, she took Laslow into her arms and stayed with him in the air for a few breaths longer than necessary; a moment of self-indulgence, the water holding them up there to hover with all the rubble of Valla like a pair of courting dragonflies. She then let the water slowly start to disperse, the two of them floating down to the ground as a bubble does, landing elegantly together on their feet.

It was an unnecessary use of the pendant’s power, of course. Still, she’d used it so many times now, for Nohr and for Hoshido and for Corrin; if it was too late for her to aid in the fight against Anankos, if that fight would ever come, what was a moment of unleashing the pendant’s magic for herself, to will the water to dance around them and see how it would turn her beloved’s face into something akin to a dazed mortal gazing upon her like an oceanic goddess, a creature of power and majesty?

Besides, those priestesses who’d lectured her about restraint were all dead, Anankos’ puppets, or both. What did they know?

“You make the water dance almost as beautifully as you,” said Laslow. There was a slight stagger to his movements, and he leant back against one of the few pieces of stonework still anchored to the ground.

“None dance as finely as you but the water, love,” she said, smile transforming into a full grin, the ecstasy of the power and the water obeying her making her feel buoyant. “I just thought to give you a suitable accompaniment.”

“So, you were the Nestrian dancer, then,” he said. “I thought it might be. The way she moved, the steps she used, they were too familiar.”

“You’re not going to turn me in for the assassination attempt of our king, then?”

Perhaps it was the power still coursing through her, or perhaps it was because she knew Laslow, and knew who he’d pick between that dastard and herself, but she stared at him, unflinching.

“It was dangerous. If they’d found you—”

“Nobody guessed it was me,” she said. “None but you have the same eye for footwork, it seems. Not even my hair gave the game away. I did consider a wig, but there was no time to find one, and I thought it would be fine as is.”

Gods, but it felt good to talk without second-guessing every word.

Laslow still looked concerned, so she changed topic. “This is Valla,” she said to someone else for the first time in years. “This is my home. This is where I grew up. This is the kingdom Anankos destroyed.”

“So, you are a Vallite, after all. That’s why you’ve not been able to talk freely.”

“Is it why you haven’t been able to talk freely?”

Laslow hesitated before nodding. “Yes. I’ve known of it for years, though I’m not a Vallite myself.” A wave of disappointment hit Azura, but she weathered it. Laslow was still hers, no matter from whence he came. Besides, that he knew of Valla at all, that they’d shared this knowledge and curse together, was more than she could have ever hoped.

“How can you use dragon veins?”

She would have begged the gods he’d not mention Anankos’ name, but she’d never taken any god but the Silent Dragon, and he was now the enemy.

“Anankos gave us his blood.”

Rage bit into her heart. So, he was with Anankos. After all that had happened, after knowing she would never face him herself and make him answer for what he’d done, he’d managed to steal something else; her family, her home, and her lover, all warped.

“Anankos,” she said. It came out in a hiss, the sibilance continuing on a moment too long, serpentine.

Laslow reached out to touch her, but stopped short when she straightened and fixed him with a righteous glare.

“Anankos killed my father, you know. They were friends, once, but then he went mad and killed him. He turned the Vallites into these things. He turned Valla into this. And still, you’ve taken his side?” She thrust an arm out; the water moved with her. “You’ve taken his side?”

Laslow wouldn’t meet her eyes, no matter how she tried to capture them.

“My mother and father were killed by a dragon too,” he said. His voice was slow, and quiet. “He wasn’t mad, I don’t think, but I don’t know why else he did what he did. He ravaged the land, killed everyone he came across. He killed my mother and father, though they were friends with him once as well, or at least with the man he was. The greatest of friends. Anankos gave them the graves we couldn’t. And he let the flowers grow in that world once again.”

One tear, then another rolled down Laslow’s cheeks. Azura thought about wiping them away, but before she could move, he’d already dashed them away himself.

“It’s not the mad dragon we’re working for,” he said, voice steadier now. He finally met her gaze. “It was the remnants of his sanity we met. He gave us his blood, and we were to find and protect his daughter in Hoshido, though in the end, she’d been taken to Nohr.”

He paused.

“And we never found…”

He stopped.

“You found her,” said Azura. Somehow, she couldn’t bring herself to be surprised.

Her anger had subsided, somewhat, his tears and tale of woe dampening it into faintly-crackling embers, but years of bitter resentment and enmity for all those who would traffic with the god who had made her an exile were hard to wash away. She lapsed into silence, and stared out across the lake.

“There’s something you should know, if you hate Anankos so,” said Laslow. “Laslow is the name he gave me; it was something of an entry fee into this world.”

“Then what is your true name?”

“Inigo,” he said. He almost seemed shy, a faint blush coming over his features. Inigo. Somehow it fit him far more nicely than Laslow ever had.

“Inigo,” she said, trying it out on her tongue. “Inigo. A lovely name.”

Inigo smiled, but then a shadow crossed over his face. “There’s a way to get down here,” he said. “If we could bring Prince Xander here, perhaps we could stop the war.”

“There’s no stopping the war.”

“Xander is a reasonable man. If we can just tell him about Anankos—”

Tell them. Tell those under whose tender care she’d been left alone to rot in the dark, tormented, where if the Hoshidans hadn’t stolen her away, she would have met her death at another child’s blade, or by poison in a chalice; tell those for whom she was now trapped into fighting by Corrin’s decision (for Azura, who had lived her life among oaths and silent curses and prisons, had never been able to make a decision that mattered in her life.)

“It matters little if he’s reasonable,” she said. “Prince Takumi is dead. Queen Mikoto and King Sumeragi are dead. Nohrians are nothing but cutthroats and reprobates to the Hoshidans after all that has passed, and they’re far too stubborn to clasp hands with a nation of scoundrels, no matter who their common enemy might be. Garon would have Xander executed the moment he stepped out of line anyway. It’s too late. It’s too late.”

“Are you sure?” he asked.

Azura felt the cold bite of the pendant’s chain against her skin, and the faint but ever-present power that coursed through its core. No. No, I’m not.

“In my experience,” he said, a hard-won certainty on his face, “There’s always just a little more time left than you think.”

***

She closed her eyes, before feeling something smooth and round placed in her palm. She opened her eyes again, frowning. It was a small sphere, colours dancing around it like there was a rainbow trapped within.

“The mad dragon’s host sacrificed himself,” Inigo said, his voice weak and hold uncertain, like he wasn’t quite sure if he needed to stop her bursting or flying away. If he didn’t dry off soon, she noted vaguely, somewhere in the back of her mind, he’d catch a cold. “No matter how Father begged him not to. And still he got to come back. My parents ought to have died, and still they got live. There are worlds where fates can be averted. There are worlds where Anan—”

He gasped in pain as a sombre cheer rose in the distance, the Nohrians acknowledging their hollow victory. She felt his fingertips begin to drip where they rested upon her skin. Alarm shot through her and she scrabbled for his fingers—now that he’d shut up about the Silent Dragon, they were fine, though the tips of his fingers were gone along with part of his nails, down past the quick, water dripping from them like a mockery of blood.

“Please,” said Inigo. He whispered short pleas into her shoulder, abandoning all argument in favour of begging. Even without looking at his face she knew he looked wretched, his shoulders slumped and tears already starting to streak down his cheeks.

She touched the orb, weakly. Its aura was strong, but secure and protective, like the stories of the kindly god upon which she’d been raised. She traced its surface with a finger, watching the tracks of water left behind, then curled her hand around it.

“Laslow?” came Prince Xander’s voice. She raised her head and saw him walk through the door, a few more furrows in his brow and concern lurking beneath his usual stern expression. “Are you with—”

The last thing Azura ever witnessed of either the world above or below was Xander’s eyes landing on the pair of them and widening, everything warping and spasming as the two last hopes for the worlds above and below disappeared from his life as suddenly as they had entered it.

#fe14 #nagamas #fe azura #fe laslow #fe inigo #fe anankos #there are some other ships implied here and other characters but they're v minor #dornishsphinx fanfiction

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vintagepaintbynumbers-blog · 6 years ago

Text

Vintage Paint by Number

Be profitable! Endeavor not to spread out the hairs of the brush attempting to paint in an area significantly more quickly. This will quickly squash the brush and beat the fine tip. Apply fragile strain to wind the tips of the hairs to some degree and buoy the brush along the surface.vintage paint by numbers Think of it as the paper (or canvas) pulling the paint off the brush as opposed to using the brush to push the paint down.You'll see a few shapes have two numbers in them, not just one. This shows you need to join two tints. Square with degrees should give you a sensible shading, at any rate don't hop your brush from one paint compartment into the running with as you'll debase the tones.

Mix a slight bit of the two tints on a non-penetrable surface (like an old saucer), by then paint the region. If you endeavor to mix the two shades on the picture itself (as in the best photo), it's undeniably not hard to wrap up with a tremendous measure of paint and going over the edges of the shape. Plus, to wrap up with unevenly mixed paint.Be watchful about cleaning the brush before dunking it into another shading. You would lean toward not to defile a shading. A slight bit of a decrease shading very quickly makes a risky circumstance of a light shading! In case you do strikingly do this, don't mix it in yet use the side of an impeccable material or bit of paper towel to endeavor to cleanse it.Paint by number or painting by numbers portrays packs having a board on which light blue or dull lines show zones to paint, and each zone has a number and a relating numbered paint to use. The units were sorted out, made and appeared in 1950 by Max S. Klein, an originator and owner of the Palmer Paint Company of Detroit, Michigan, and Dan Robbins, a business artist.[1][2]

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In children's development books, some prompt activities are as often as possible acquainted with children that are called shading by numbers. Right when Palmer Paint agreeable shaded pencils with clients, they what's more posted pictures online for a "Pastel by Number" assortment.

Paint by Numbers treatment has diverse central focuses. Moreover as extended power, it would all around have the ability to upgrade motor aptitudes, the ability to control hand and arm movements and the entire body and help people with slight tremors. It's in like path seemed to grow concentrationIn 2011, the Museum of Modern Art in New York saw four early structures of paint by number by Max Klein for its Department of Architecture and Design, given by Jacquelyn Schiffman.

In May 2011, Dan Robbins and Palmer Paint Products, Inc., together made and passed on to pitch another 60th-celebration paint by number set.[9] This gatherers' set was made in memory of the survivors and the overall public who had lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and depicts the Twin Towers staying in soul over the Manhattan skyline. A portion[clarification needed] of the advantages from this set is being given to the liberal affiliation Voices of SeptemberOrder a pack. Typical size for most painting units is 40X50 Cm or 16X20 In. You will get paints, brushes, canvas, screws, gets and direct card. It is recommended to create an edge with canvas.Stretch the canvas. Set up your contraptions. Have a bowl of water close by for washing brushes. Match the number from the canvas with the paint and start painting. Starting from the most lifted inspiration driving canvas is recommended.Step by step and number by number when you have completed it, you will be stupified by its hugeness. Edge it, hang it, see it and smile :) goodness better trust it, make a point to send us a photo review.In March 1951, clients of all ages slid on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. Despite how the events were for quite a while completed, fortified customers stuffed in for a gander at the first in-store appearing to be another workmanship experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and got diverse sets unequivocally. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all rehearsed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.In March 1951, clients of all ages dove on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. Notwithstanding how the events were for quite a while completed, tense customers stuffed in for a glance at the first in-store show of another distinctive quality experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and procured unmistakable sets convincingly. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all developed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.

There was just a singular issue: The customers were fake. Or then again usually fake. The creators of the wonder would never know obviously. The flood on Macy's was fairly a legend among the most great presentation stunts ever of or business. Regardless, the thing itself was invigorated by an other virtuoso—Leonardo da Vinci.

Right when Dan Robbins, the thirteenth laborer of Detroit-based Palmer Paint Co., read that da Vinci displayed his understudies the stray bits of painting by using numbered models on a canvas, he expected the idea may have persistently sweeping interest. So he endeavored to put out something different that would interest certain specialists everything considered.

Unfortunately, no one required his Craft Master paint-by-number packs. Most retailers feared customers wouldn't get the thought or wouldn't need such a helpful workmanship experience. Finally, S.S. Kresge (later Kmart) put everything on hold and put in a basic intrigue. Before long, due to a packaging disturbance, the paints for two units got swapped: Colors made diversion arrangements for "The Fishermen" ended up in boxes for "The Bullfighter." Hobbyists looked blue-caped matadors pulling in green bulls, considering where it had all turned out gravely. Hit with deals for purposes of constrainment, Kresge dropped each and every future intrigue. Painting by Numbers is the detect a picture is separated into shapes, each unique with a number that identifies with a particular shading. You paint in each shape and as time goes on the picture makes as a finished the course toward painting.

The paint by numbers approach is ordinarily derided as being mutilated, uncreative, and condition based. I trust in it's critical in getting over that a pearl is made through various conditions of shading. These shapes regularly don't look extraordinary self-rulingly, nor show up anything "veritable", yet accumulated as a get-together they make the image.

The running with stage in making as a painter is to fathom how to see such shading shapes for yourself, without the guide of a printed graph. Completing a paint by numbers experience supports you fathom how to inspect a subject and watch areas of shading. It strengthens you move a long way from focusing on what the finished subject will look like to looking zones and what shading these should be painted.

"'Painting by numbers' may not be as compromising an energy as one may imagine. Leonardo himself envisioned a kind of it, designating collaborators to paint zones on a work that he had starting late portrayed out and numbered."It's luring to paint with the objective that you complete a piece of the picture at some unpredictable minute, yet that will require a lot of brush washing and waste paint. Or on the other hand possibly paint one shading at some unpredictable minute, from the best regions of this shading to the most diminutive. Working from the most basic inspiration driving the craftsmanship down stays away from unexpectedly bothering wet paint.

By starting with the more unmistakable ones you'll be legitimately overseen using the brush and paint when you get to the humblest territories, which can be fiddly to paint. Painting by Numbers is an amazing activity in brush control. You know unequivocally where the paint should go in that capacity can focus absolutely on getting it down there, and just there.

Having the brush control to paint successfully up to an edge or unequivocal point is an essential cutoff that each beyond any doubt gifted worker needs to make. You'll use it, for example, when painting an establishment behind an article, uniting shading in an eye, or obscuring an embarrassment as a vase, and wherever you need a hard edge on an object.The brush gave is usually somewhat one, to associate with you to paint the humblest shapes in the imaginative creation. It can make painting increasingly noticeable shapes dull along these lines, if you have a continuously noteworthy brush use this too.

Start with either the darkest shading and end with the lightest or the an other way, districts that have a mixed shading (twofold number) till last. The reason I propose doing the shades in get-together from lessening to light (or the an other way) this draws in you locate a little about the tone and chroma of tones.

Keep a holder of clean water for washing your brush (persevering through it's an acrylic Paint by Numbers unit) to hand, in like manner as a surface for cleaning and drying the brush. Try not to dunk the brush into the paint past what many would consider possible up to the ferrule, essentially the tip. Maybe get paint significantly more customarily over have a glob of it tumble off onto made by workmanship.

Be gainful! Endeavor not to spread out the hairs of the brush attempting to paint in a locale considerably more quickly. This will quickly squash the brush and beat the fine tip. Apply fragile strain to wind the tips of the hairs fairly and drift the brush along the surface. Think of it as the paper (or canvas) pulling the paint off the brush as opposed to using the brush to push the paint down.You'll see a few shapes have two numbers in them, not just one. This shows you need to join two tints. Square with degrees should give you a sensible shading, at any rate don't hop your brush from one paint compartment into the running with as you'll sully the tones.

Mix a slight bit of the two tints on a non-penetrable surface (like an old saucer), by then paint the territory. In case you endeavor to mix the two shades on the picture itself (as in the best photo), it's obviously not hard to wrap up with a gigantic measure of paint and going over the edges of the shape. Plus, to wrap up with unevenly mixed paint.Be watchful about cleaning the brush before dunking it into another shading. You would lean toward not to taint a shading. A slight bit of a diminish shading very quickly makes a perilous circumstance of a light shading! In case you do curiously do this, don't mix it in yet use the side of a perfect material or bit of paper towel to endeavor to cleanse it.Paint by number or painting by numbers outlines packs having a board on which light blue or dull lines show zones to paint, and each territory has a number and a relating numbered paint to use. The units were sorted out, made and appeared in 1950 by Max S. Klein, an architect and owner of the Palmer Paint Company of Detroit, Michigan, and Dan Robbins, a business artist.[1][2]

In children's development books, some prompt activities are habitually acquainted with children that are called shading by numbers. Right when Palmer Paint agreeable shaded pencils with clients, they likewise posted pictures online for a "Pastel by Number" assortment.

Paint by Numbers treatment has distinctive central focuses. Also as extended power, it would all around have the ability to upgrade motor aptitudes, the ability to control hand and arm movements and the entire body and help people with slight tremors. It's in like path seemed to extend concentrationIn 2011, the Museum of Modern Art in New York saw four early structures of paint by number by Max Klein for its Department of Architecture and Design, given by Jacquelyn Schiffman.

In May 2011, Dan Robbins and Palmer Paint Products, Inc., together made and passed on to pitch another 60th-celebration paint by number set.[9] This gatherers' set was made in memory of the survivors and the overall public who had lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and depicts the Twin Towers staying in soul over the Manhattan skyline. A portion[clarification needed] of the advantages from this set is being given to the liberal affiliation Voices of SeptemberOrder a pack. Typical size for most painting units is 40X50 Cm or 16X20 In. You will get paints, brushes, canvas, screws, gets and direct card. It is endorsed to create an edge with canvas.Stretch the canvas. Set up your contraptions. Have a bowl of water close by for washing brushes. Match the number from the canvas with the paint and start painting. Starting from the most lifted inspiration driving canvas is recommended.Step by step and number by number when you have completed it, you will be stupified by its immensity. Edge it, hang it, see it and smile :) goodness better trust it, make a point to send us a photo review.In March 1951, clients of all ages slid on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. Despite how the events were for quite a while completed, fortified customers stuffed in for a gander at the first in-store appearing to be another workmanship experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and got distinctive sets unequivocally. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all rehearsed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.In March 1951, clients of all ages dove on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. In spite of how the events were for quite a while completed, tense customers stuffed in for a gander at the first in-store show of another distinctive quality experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and procured unmistakable sets convincingly. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all developed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.

There was just a lone issue: The customers were fake. Or then again regularly fake. The creators of the wonder would never know certainly. The flood on Macy's was to some degree a legend among the most brilliant presentation stunts ever of or business. Regardless, the thing itself was empowered by an other virtuoso—Leonardo da Vinci.

Right when Dan Robbins, the thirteenth specialist of Detroit-based Palmer Paint Co., read that da Vinci showed his understudies the stray bits of painting by using numbered models on a canvas, he expected the idea may have ceaselessly far reaching interest. So he endeavored to put out something different that would interest certain specialists everything considered.

Unfortunately, no one required his Craft Master paint-by-number packs. Most retailers feared customers wouldn't get the thought or wouldn't need such a helpful workmanship experience. Finally, S.S. Kresge (later Kmart) put everything on hold and put in a basic intrigue. Before long, in view of a packaging calamity, the paints for two units got swapped: Colors made amusement arrangements for "The Fishermen" ended up in boxes for "The Bullfighter." Hobbyists looked blue-caped matadors drawing in green bulls, considering where it had all turned out gravely. Hit with deals for purposes of repression, Kresge dropped each and every future intrigue.

Tense to recoup its thing on racks, Palmer Paint remembered it expected to act snappy. Max Klein, the connection's facilitator, had an idea. Klein and Robbins started by asking the Macy's toy buyer to empower them to show their packs in-store, promising that any unsold stock could be returned worthless out of pocket. Macy's had nothing to lose by watching out for. By then, Klein got two reps

Tense to recuperate its thing on racks, Palmer Paint remembered it expected to act speedy. Max Klein, the connection's facilitator, had an idea. Klein and Robbins started by asking the Macy's toy buyer to empower them to exhibit their packs in-store, promising that any unsold stock could be returned vain out of pocket. Macy's had nothing to lose by watching out for. By then, Klein got two reps

Wow what a find! Nowadays where temporary workers couldn't care less about clients or client service...Charlie exceeds expectations in these zones! We required our worn out, blurred outside of our 3 story home repainted and we needed to thoroughly patch up and switch it up. When I talked with Charlie when he turned out for the offer, it was obvious to me that he really took pride in his work and focused on detail. I didn't need a major organization to carry out the responsibility and be difficult to manage on the grounds that I was only a number to them, I needed the client administration and the pride of craftsmanship. Charlie was all that.

The prep work is an absolute necessity when managing an outside. Charlie and his group were so fastidious and twofold and triple checked zones to ensure it was done appropriately. In the event that Charlie didn't take every necessary step himself, he was brought over to review it before the group moved to an alternate region. His meticulousness in the prep was even seen by the neighbors...that says something!

The nature of the paint work is exceptional! It looks astonishing, we couldn't be more joyful. Along these lines, I needed to make an on the fly call and change the trim shading since it wasn't our vision. I know, an agony in the back, yet Charlie took care of it like an expert. I felt terrible about doing that, yet you just paint your home now and again, so I needed it done effectively. Him and his team were incredible about it and never made me feel regretful. Again...customer administration! Straight lines, even coats, no overspray on my deck or furniture or concrete...quality is in the subtleties! They even completed a couple of additional things around the house since it would make everything look only that vastly improved.

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We are rehash clients of Charlie and TruQuality Painting. The organization dependably works admirably and takes incredible pride in their work. We had Charlie clean our rooftop and canals alongside a rooftop treatment. While working he found a wasp next and found a spot that a bat was making a home. EEK! In addition to the fact that he took consideration of these things without extra charge, he additionally called us to report what he had found. I exceedingly suggest the organization and will call upon TruQuality for different occupations around our home.

Our homes are one of our most noteworthy speculations and when we can discover an organization that can deal with it, rapidly, with reasonable rates, high hard working attitudes and incredible client administration then you have discovered gold. Much obliged TruQuality for having a name that portrays your service...TruQuality. The protected Paint Liner Kit is the simple to utilize paint framework that gives you proficient looking outcomes and spares you up to 70% off of your paint time. Accomplish dangerously sharp corners and edges with the Paint Liner Kit. The liner is independent, re-usable and movable to make proficient looking outcomes the width required so your corners are constantly exact and clean without utilizing veiling tape. The Paint Liner Kit roller highlighting a licensed edger enables you to flawlessly associate with the liner. Fill the roller with paint and make the ideal edgeSolvang Antiques Fine Art Gallery is arranged inside our wonderful showroom, displaying unique gems dating from the eighteenth century. The refined craftsmans of the past gave careful consideration to detail and their craftsmanship was remarkable. Solvang Antiques can help you in finding the best quality piece you will appreciate for a lifetime.

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allpaintbynumbers-blog · 6 years ago

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Diy oil painting by numbers digital oil painting

Painting by Numbers is the detect a picture is separated into shapes, each unique with a number that identifies with a particular shading. You paint in each shape and as time goes on the picture makes as a finished the course toward painting.

"'Painting by numbers' may not be as compromising an energy as one may imagine. Leonardo himself envisioned a kind of it, designating collaborators to paint zones on a work that he had starting late portrayed out and numbered."It's luring to paint with the objective allpaintbynumbers that you complete a piece of the picture at some unpredictable minute, yet that will require a lot of brush washing and waste paint. Or on the other hand possibly paint one shading at some unpredictable minute, from the best regions of this shading to the most diminutive. Working from the most basic inspiration driving the craftsmanship down stays away from unexpectedly bothering wet paint.

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In May 2011, Dan Robbins and Palmer Paint Products, Inc., together made and passed on to pitch another 60th-celebration paint by number set.[9] This gatherers' set was made in memory of the survivors and the overall public who had lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and depicts the Twin Towers staying in soul over the Manhattan skyline. A portion[clarification needed] of the advantages from this set is being given to the liberal affiliation Voices of SeptemberOrder a pack. Typical size for most painting units is 40X50 Cm or 16X20 In. You will get paints, brushes, canvas, screws, gets and direct card. It is endorsed to create an edge with canvas.Stretch the canvas. Set up your contraptions. Have a bowl of water close by for washing brushes. Match the number from the canvas with the paint and start painting. Starting from the most lifted inspiration driving canvas is recommended.Step by step and number by number when you have completed it, you will be stupified by its immensity. Edge it, hang it, see it and smile :) goodness better trust it, make a point to send us a photo review.In March 1951, clients of all ages slid on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. Despite how the events were for quite a while completed, fortified customers stuffed in for a gander at the first in-store appearing to be another workmanship experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and got distinctive sets unequivocally. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all rehearsed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.In March 1951, clients of all ages dove on Macy's in New York City's Herald Square. In spite of how the events were for quite a while completed, tense customers stuffed in for a gander at the first in-store show of another distinctive quality experience called paint-by-number. They swarmed the demonstrators and procured unmistakable sets convincingly. Anyone present could see that the unit had mass interest. As articulation of the free for all developed the yearly New York City Toy Fair happening a couple of squares away, orders began pouring in from retailers around the country.

Unfortunately, no one required his Craft Master paint-by-number packs. Most retailers feared customers wouldn't get the thought or wouldn't need such a helpful workmanship experience. Finally, S.S. Kresge (later Kmart) put everything on hold and put in a basic intrigue. Before long, in view of a packaging calamity, the paints for two units got swapped: Colors made amusement arrangements for "The Fishermen" ended up in boxes for "The Bullfighter." Hobbyists looked blue-caped matadors drawing in green bulls, considering where it had all turned out gravely. Hit with deals for purposes of repression, Kresge dropped each and every future intrigue.

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romancatholicreflections · 6 years ago

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19th September >> Daily Reflection/Commentary on Today’s First Reading for Roman Catholics on Wednesday of the Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (1 Corinthians 12:31 – 13:13) ~ A hymn to agape-love.

We have here probably one of the most quoted passages from Paul, if not from the whole Bible.

We have seen Paul speaking to the Corinthian Christians about the various gifts of the Spirit with which different people are endowed so that they can better serve the needs of the community in many different ways. He had been criticising them for laying too much emphasis on and even ambitioning the having of certain more “prestigious” gifts.

Using the analogy of the human body he had said that the overall unity of the community was more important than any one gift just as the unity of the body depended on its having a full complement of limbs and organs for it to function properly.

Today, however, he goes further and says that, above and beyond any gifts or ‘charisms’, there is “a more excellent way”. That way is the over-riding element of love. Love is not on the same level as the other gifts. Rather, it is one of the most evident signs of the presence of the Spirit of Christ in the community and its members.

‘Love’ here as in many parts of the New Testament translates the Greek word agape, a word with a very specific meaning. The word ‘love’ can mean many things and C S Lewis has written a book called The Four Loves, each one of which can be found in the scriptures. Let us just briefly describe three of these: eros, philia, and agape.

Eros describes physical, sensual love, the love of lovers sharing physical intimacies with each other. At its best, it is a genuine and very beautiful form of love which involves the total giving of two people to each through their bodies. Paul is not talking about this.

Philia is really the highest form of love. It is the love of friendship, where friendship implies a total mutuality and sharing between two people in a mutual self-giving to each other. It is the love of lovers at its best, the love of the happily married couple, and of friends who are deeply committed to each other. Sex may or may not be part of it. It implies an enduring relationship which may not be present in an eros situation. Again, Paul is not talking about this here.

Agape is reaching out to another person with a deep desire for that person’s total well-being and wholeness. It is the love of compassion and caring. It differs from philia in that it does not expect a return (though that may be given); it is a totally unconditional form of loving. It is the love that God reaches out to all creatures whether they return that love or not. In the First Letter of John we are told that God IS agape. It is a constituent of his very being. Agape is a form of love which desires the good of the other quite independently of that person’s lovableness. It is the love that God extends equally to every single person, irrespective of who they are or how they respond. So it is a love that can be extended even to enemies, criminals and those who want to destroy us. It is the love that Jesus showed for those who were nailing him to the cross. It is the love that Paul is speaking about here. It is a love which desires the good of the other and hence is then especially offered to those who lack it most.

(However, we might also add that a person cannot survive only on agape, the giving form of love. No one can remain permanently in a totally altruistic mode. At bottom whatever we do must ultimately be for our own good and wellbeing. What we really need for our wholeness is a true philia relationship. It is interesting that when Jesus asked Peter his three questions after the resurrection, “Simon, do you love me more than these?”, he used the verbs for both agape and philia. In fact, it may not be possible to show a great deal of agape unless we have a philia experience as part of our lives. We can live without eros but, when joined with philia, eros adds what we might call an incarnated dimension to our lives – although it is also the form of love most abused.

Paul speaks of the supremacy of agape over everything else we do or achieve. If our actions are not motivated by an agape love, then they are of no real value as far as our Christian life is concerned.

Using hyperbolic language, he gives four exaggerated examples of some of the gifts to be found in the community:

– the gift of eloquence, even to the point of being able to speak not only every earthly language but the language of angels;

– the gift of prophecy (in the sense we described it yesterday), the ability to understand all mysteries and “knowing everything” that can be known;

– a faith strong enough to move mountains (as Jesus said true faith could do);

– a generosity which would give away everything one has, even to offering one’s body in martyrdom.

To have any of these gifts in the highest degree could make one a prominent and highly respected person in the community. But if, at bottom, these things are not motivated by genuine love (agape), they are rated as nothing.

Speaking both positively and negatively, Paul now lists some of the qualities of this kind of agape love:

– It is patient and kind (Virtues apparently not very conspicuous in the Corinthian community.)

– It is never jealous. (Jealousy seems to be present in those Corinthians who ambition certain charisms rather than be satisfied with what they have.)

– It is never boastful or conceited. (Paul accuses the Corinthians of a certain arrogance which their overall moral behaviour in no way justifies.)

– It is never rude or selfish. (Paul mentions the divisive factions and also the selfish behaviour of some when celebrating the Lord’s Supper.)

– It does not take offence and is not resentful. (True agape is totally focused on the needs of the other and is not upset by hostility or rejection. Such inner resentment is a sign of an insecurity in oneself. The truly agape-love person cannot be offended because he or she is a person who totally accepts himself as he/she is.)

– It takes no pleasure in other’s sins but delights in the truth. (The reaction to the weaknesses of others is not delight nor judgement but compassion. True love also is never afraid of the truth but always wants to see it come to the surface. At the same time, the truly loving person will always speak the truth in love, being sensitive to the weaknesses of those for whom the truth can be very painful. We can speak the truth in a very unloving way.)

– It is always ready to excuse, to trust, to hope, and to endure whatever comes. (True love always wants to find the good in everyone. It is biased towards believing that people act in good faith. In spite of outward circumstances, it never loses the certain hope that the truth and the good must ultimately prevail. It is ready in the worst of times to hang in there and to believe in the ultimate goodness of people.)

Love alone, says Paul, outlasts everything else. Because love is part of God’s very nature; God is love. Loving is not just something God practises – it is a part of his very essence.

On the other hand, many of the church’s most highly prized gifts will eventually pass away. Paul mentions prophecy. There will come a time when it is no longer needed. The gift of speaking languages will not be part of the life to come. Knowledge, however wide, will eventually be shown to be so inadequate when we come face to face with the Infinite Source of all knowledge and wisdom. For “once perfection comes, all imperfect things will disappear”.

‘Perfection’ is a translation of the Greek word pleroma which means ‘fulfilment’, ‘completeness’, ‘maturity’. That ‘perfection’ will be realised when Christ comes at the end to bring all creation to himself to share in his glory.

Right now, says Paul, we are like children, talking like children, acting and arguing like children. We think we are adults but it is not really the case. We are like a man looking at his reflection in one of those polished metal mirrors of those days. The image can be seen but is somewhat blurred. But then, when the Lord comes, we will have the extraordinary experience of seeing God clearly face to face.

What I know now is so imperfect. But then “I shall know as I am known”. That is, I will know the Lord to the fullest extent possible for a human creature analogous to the unlimited way in which God knows me.

And so, Paul sums up by saying that in the end only three things will perdure: faith, hope and love (agape). We will not need faith when we are face to face with our infinite Creator. We will not need hope because every possible desire of our being will be fulfilled forever. But agape will remain. Face to face with God, we will be eternally bathed in that agape which pours from him and fills us with the happiness for which we were created.

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misterrightscenarios · 7 years ago

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The Creation of the Angels

How a creator angel finds the core of the thirteen new angels it must bring to life. △ 1482 words | oneshot | Sebongie Appreciation Day

warning: this is heavily unedited. 3 years with my baby angels, whom i have cried and laughed with every step of the way--so my 300th post dedicated to them. i wanted to write something to show what i love most about each of them, so here we are. the creation order is from youngest to oldest! HAPPY 3rd ANNIVERSARY, SEVENTEEN <333

When the angel was tasked with creating thirteen new angels, it knew it must be its best work yet. The angel cleared its shop, giving itself a blank canvas and looking around carefully.

Its sky-grey eyes landed on the fragment of a star, carefully tucked into a clear crystal container. The angel had kept it for a millenia now, but the urge to create the first of the new angels had the angel approaching the case now, carefully retrieving the star. It shone bright, and the angel smiled softly.

This would be the core of the new angel. And so, the angel began its long work, carefully crafting a new masterpiece from their workshop--the ability to smile through the tough times, to remind kind and persevering. This new angel would be the last the creator angel would bring to life, but one that would serve to remind all other twelve to keep each other close together.

The angel spent days on the first angel, carefully setting it aside and continuing its work. On a new day, the angel was out exploring when it came upon a seed of a rare tree--it did not know its name or its origin, but knew it must be special, as a small leave was already sprouting, even in unlikely circumstances. This would be the heart of the second creation. With its core, the angel knew this new creation would be one of a kind, one that would work against all odds to shine amongst the rubble.

The core of the third angel would come from the sea--the angel thought that the new angels would new someone to remind them how fun life could be, just like the sea reminded the humans they watched over that there was always more to life. The new creation would be as gentle as the tiny fish in the sea, but as powerful as the raging waves that crashed onto shore.

For the fourth angel, the creator angel took a long time searching. It stopped working because it did not know where to even begin its search. So far, all of the angels would be strong and larger than life--the angel thought they would need someone more gentle, that would still be able to hold the same kind of fire. It took a long time to find this angel’s core, but it came in the form of a rainbow right over the sea where the angel had found the third’s core. For this new angel, the fragment of the rainbow would represent the fight of life shining through the rain, of just how beautiful and multifaceted a being could be.

It was around the time, when the creator angel was tucking away the fourth angel for safekeeping, that it realized the new angels would need someone who could fill in any gaps the angel might have missed--and so, the creator angel went on a trip once again, searching for the fifth angel’s core. For this one, the angel got creative and mixed more than one element for the core--some clouds, to keep the angel soft, a bit of forest, for the willpower the new angel would own, and just a bit of lava, to always keep the angel running alongside the others.

Along the way, the angel picked up sunflowers, to make the core of the sixth angel. It would be as gentle as the petals of the core it would carry, but as bright as the flower that only faced the sun. It would be a forced of vitality amongst the other angels, keeping them bright.

The seventh angel took a lot of planning out, because the creator angel had known all along how intricate it would need to be. It would demand the awe and respect of the other angels, but it would be humble, even when their core would demand the attention of everyone. The angel sought out a favor from its favorite archangel, and was rewarded with a string from the archangels harp--it would be unbreakable and gentle all at once, capable of holding out strong for the others to follow its lead.

For the eighth angel, the creator was once again stumped. It knew it did not have everything it needed to have for the thirteen angels, so the creator spent hours in its shop, studying the eight angels it had thus far made and taking into account what it would need. It took many nights of simply sitting there, watching over its new angels that it realized what they would need--a mind to help them along their long journeys.

And so, the angel sought out a gemstone from its own collection, an elixir the angel had created long ago to be a possible core but it had forgotten about until now. This core was a muted lapis lazuli blue, the edges seemingly sharp but smoothed at every turn, keeping the gem light and easy to handle. The gem would bring the new angel a mind unlike any other, offering an endless well of knowledge for the other angels. It would make the new angel shine to demand attention, but be soft enough to remind any that crossed his path that he was still an angel at the end of the day.

The angel that followed was given the core of a shooting star the creator angel had followed across a handful of nights, making sure to grab a part just when it was shining its brightest. The new angel would be the possible new creator of this batch, and the angel wanted to make sure that it would always be able to create and form ideas the other angels might not think of. This angel needed to be made to be confident in what it could accomplish, and be strong enough to lead when needed.

Surprisingly, the creation that followed was made right after the last, bringing the count up to ten. The creator angel went straight to its friend in the Garden of Eden, asking for permission to retrieve a feather from one of the favored birds in the garden. The purpose of the core would be to make this angel lighthearted, but to inherit the high skills it took for a bird from the garden to fly the long distances it did between Eden and the human world. This nagel would bridge a gap, almost always silently, but would be someone they could rely on.

When the creator angel had finished the tenth new angel, it took a small break. It needed to stop and think hard about the last three angels--the ones it would bring to life first.

It took a few weeks, but then the eleventh angel had its core ready. It was another feather, but this time of an archangel that had been watching the outer shell creation of the eleventh. THe archangel offered its feather with a lighthearted laugh, wishing that the new creation would be kind, with a honeyed personality most other nagels lacked. The creator angel agreed, and carefully settled the angel feather core into the eleventh angel.

Feeling a little mischievous, and wanting to add more personal touches to the last of the angels, the angel used a piece of its own hair in the twelfth angel’s core. This angel would be the one they could all turn to if need be, but this would be the angel to listen to their troubles, the almost perfect personification of what an angel should be.

And lastly, came the last of the angels. By now, the other twelve were ready and encapsulated, ready to be released on a set date. But first, the creator angel knew they would need a leader. Someone strong of both mind and body, that could lead them in their tough tasks amongst the humans. This angel would need to be kind like the others, but work just as hard. The creator angel went to its own creator this time, asking for help with the core of the last angel. There, the angel was gifted a piece of the heart of a lion that had lived and passed away in the Garden of Eden--it would make the last angel strong enough to lead, the elder creator assured.

And so, when the last creation was made and ready, the creator angel happily sent the first one off, keeping tabs on the timelines to make sure all thirteen were safely delivered.

The creator angel had worked for so long on these, that it felt the need to watch over them, even as they went about their own lives to become angels. They grew into their cores, the thirteen of them coming together and combining each core so beautifully that the creator angel watched them with tears in its stormy eyes nearly every night.

The thirteen angels it had created were the creator angel’s best work yet.

#seventeen #seventeen imagines #seventeen scenarios #seventeen drabbles #svt #svt imagines #svt scenarios #svt drabbles #17 imagines #17 scenarios #17 drabbles

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moodsmithmedia · 5 years ago

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Lies, the Universe & Mad Men

In this short lived blog I’ve lied to you. Our relationship just started and I’m already out here telling you mistruths...I owe you an apology. It wasn’t a malicious one, but the size of the lie was monumental. This outright falsehood has become engrained into our culture and belief system without any evidence supporting it, like a religion or other dogmatic belief system. Worse yet, there’s probably more evidence against it that people blindly ignore to avoid the cold, decidedly inconvenient truth (I believe in climate change but in this instance there’s no pun intended). So before anything else let me say I’m sorry. I’ve never wanted to be the kind of person who tells these kinds of lies, certainly not to myself. So here goes...

The universe doesn’t conspire to grant wishes. It doesn’t value spunk. It doesn’t reward the consistent. This seems overwhelmingly negative but it shouldn’t be. The universe does a lot of things! It’s constantly creating fusion reactors that churn out the very atoms of which you’re made. Those atoms come together to form the air you breathe, the mountains you might climb, the brushstrokes of a masterpiece that moves you to tears and the blood that blushes the skin of your loved one’s face when you say just the right thing. That’s not even close to a fraction of it. Anything that you could possibly observe, so much of which is absurdly beautiful, is a process of or within the universe. But what the universe doesn’t do is consider your feelings or desires. It just doesn’t happen. And you should stop thinking that it does. And you should stop filling people with the false hope that it will.

Think about the sheer complexity and time that it takes for all of existence to allow for a set of circumstances to randomly play out. If you’re still thinking that the universe has an interest in your success, your concept of it is still too small and self interested. The observable universe is so big it would take light 13+ BILLION years to cross from one side of the universe to the next. Let’s say there’s an intelligent civilization at one edge of the universe. If they broadcasted a message from their end of the universe to a different civilization on the other side of it, the second civilization wouldn’t receive that message for billions of years. Billions of years! For comparison, humanity is only a couple hundred thousand years old. “They say you die twice, once when you stop breathing and the second, a bit later on, when somebody mentions your name for the last time.” Anyone around when that message was sent could have lived and died twice, thousands of times over before that message was received.

Civilization. Ours is massive and getting bigger. At the time of this writing there are about 7.7 billion of us and there’s speculation that we could top 11 billion by the end of the century. All of us, on one planet with finite resources and an economic system built on the concept of infinite growth. There’s got to be competing interests that necessitate a “loser”.

Have you ever watched the Olympics? The Men’s 100m is one of the most fascinating sporting events. It’s not simply a display of strength, there’s an artistry required to lower your times past a certain threshold. But before each race, as the competitors get into their blocks, each one of them genuflects. This has never not confused me. Seriously. I get it. But only one person can win! I think the most generous interpretation of it is that they’re all praying for the best race they have within themselves. I can understand and relate to the idea of being the best version of yourself regardless of the outcome. But who competes without the desire to win? Don’t we actually think that competition without that “killer instinct” to win is just a prerequisite for losing?

Imagine there are civilizations all throughout the cosmos with resource distribution complexity issues roughly equal to our own. Can you really imagine that the universe is out here taking a particular interest in each individual, securing them the things they truly want? That’s just not practical. So instead we imagine that the universe is only doing this service for the people who “truly want something”. But the universe is constantly doing, indiscriminately. This very second the ocean is reclaiming the island nation of the Maldives. Their buildings, their economy, their way of life. Depending on whether or not there is another country or group of countries willing to have them, the ocean could potentially reclaim the people of the Maldives too. Clearly the culture of the Maldives hasn’t sufficiently valued not drowning in its list of things they truly want.

What do you truly want? Is it money? Cars? Women? Is it something more wholesome, like children? A career that fulfills you? A person to see you for who you are and still accept you? What about something that seems more fundamental? Not passing away painfully in some natural disaster or terrorist attack? A life free of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse? To be unburdened by addiction or to have the will power to triumph over it? Or is it simply a job that you don’t particularly want but desperately need in order to earn a living for yourself and your family? The questions should bear out the point, but for the sake of being explicit it simply isn’t possible that the people these things don’t work out for didn’t want it enough. Looking at it the opposite way makes it even more clear. Things work out all the time for people who are indifferent to those opportunities. And it fosters some kind of morbid elitism to really believe that.

Paulo Coelho wrote an inspiring piece of fiction and people treat it as if he wrote a modern bible illuminating the path toward a purposeful life for those who make themselves available to it. The Alchemist got endorsements from celebrities, like Oprah, claiming they connected with the spirit of intention in the development of their careers. They speak to the truth of how the universe works when you want something badly enough. This is deeply offensive to the legacy of artists who weren’t sufficiently appreciated in their time and had to die to be taken seriously. Johann Sebastian Bach wasn’t recognized as a composer while he was alive, instead only viewed as a competent organist. The author of Moby Dick only earned $10,000 from his writing over the course of his life. Van Gogh killed himself, a consequence of mental illness and depression over a lack of success.

So I lied to you but really I lied to me. I, in good faith, regurgitated lies told to me in good faith. Different from the televangelists asking for your rent money for tithes so they can purchase mansions and private jets, I wasn’t encouraged to purchase The Alchemist for a percentage of my monthly income to witness my dreams come true. It was given to me. Gifted to me, at a dark time in my life in the hopes that it would spark belief in myself at a time when I needed it. But the principal message of the book is a fantasy. The universe doesn’t know my name, doesn’t value my ambitions and will move on, business as usual, if you or I, died in the street cold and alone. That only became more clear as the dark time that I received The Alchemist in only got darker. How badly I want what I want matters only to me and a bit less so to those that love me but, fairly, have their own ambitions to be weary of.

This talk of dark times reminds me about another stunning fact about the universe worth pondering. The standard mode of existence in the universe is actually dark and cold. It just happens to be the case that the laws of physics, at this particular moment in the life of the universe, facilitate the creation of stars which warm and illuminate incalculably large swaths of the heavens.

Paulo Coelho’s book took the onus of facilitating your destiny out of your hands and into the hands of a nameless, faceless, benevolent space fairy. While beautiful fiction, this is just an outright diffusion of responsibility. But there is a truth to be told about the universe. It not warm and fuzzy. It won’t make you feel taken care of. It might frighten you, depending on your openness to being challenged. As I write this, I’m not feeling particularly open to challenge. But it returns control of the ride that is your life from a figment of Coelho’s imagination to you, an undeniably real person. Make of it what you will...

“The most terrifying fact about the universe is not that it is hostile but that it is indifferent, but if we can come to terms with that indifference, then our existence as a species can have genuine meaning. However vast the darkness, we must supply our own light.” - Stanley Kubrick

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nicholasuqqg1619-blog · 6 years ago

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How the idea creation, becomes players will probably choose a participating Inventor in also the Battle Royale or the Spend less The earth retail store. The perfect solution to produce swift currency increases inside the game may be the Fortnite v bucks generator. Popular that circumstance, you're more or less from chance on the subject of a "here's a great gift cards for V-bucks" type of object. If you want to present it a go The query, if you're not thinking about a way that's much more routine than journey, becomes regardless of whether an individual really should acquire the way by its trade value in order to work V-Bucks. Quite a few inhabitants question themselves a plain question - Learn to get a free skin within Fortnite.

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However, Fortnite allows you to payed out to have a slight quantity connected with V-Bucks. Every era that an individual sign in you'll be given a regular prize, with daily you'll have a very probability with the everyday prize into the future unacceptable when V-bucks. This kind of entirely happens through his or her digital currency, V-Bucks. In case you total other missions than which, you may certainly not occur presented anymore bonus prizes with the date. Keeping track of the move regarding peak amount produce inside game, distinguishing persons with great stocks associated with V-bucks, and also assigning data with important police agencies” can alleviate brawl that rise.

V-bucks are an exceptionally valuable high quality currency in Fortnite, in addition to you'll find many time ways to get your hands on them. Vbucks inside Fortnite is often a style regarding currency that is accustomed to purchase with game entries for achieving up grade with no by using real money. It truly is challenging to earn a lot of Fortnite v bucks.

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All the Fortnite Battle Royale tips you would like, good Fortnite Android details, free V Bucks, and Fortnite Server standing revises. Good, the Fortnite gift minute card generator enables you will get free V-Bucks consuming the single codes in which you possibly can convert from the game. In a very past place, I focused on all the various ways in which you are able to earn V-bucks with But the globe Even so, I worked out really go into how a lot of you'll be able to earn on a daily basis. As many of us be aware that, video clip games deliver gamblers in concert. On the web you will find increasingly more reservation concerning Fortnite v bucks ps4.

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