#Pope Influences The Environment

[bruceslatonpite]

example - Wiktionary

example – Wiktionary— Read on en.m.wiktionary.org/wiki/example

[monstrousgourmandizingcats]

Gotta say, thank you very much for sharing your insights into the 2025 conclave. I love reading them; your takes and bringing into focus people largely overlooked by English speaking media.

I'd love to know where you look for information and (you've probably answered this before but I'll ask anyway) was there anything that you think may have happened prior to the 2013 conclave that influenced appointing Francis as Pope?

Once again thank you for sharing your takes, I'm looking forward to your posts!

Hello!

So to answer your second question first: yes, I know a fair amount about the dynamics leading up to the conclave that elected Francis twelve years ago, although a lot of it is stuff I've actually learned fairly recently. While official balloting counts of papal conclaves do not exist, unofficial counts do tend to emerge afterwards, and from the ones for 2013 we see the future Pope Francis (i.e. Jorge Mario Bergoglio) initially positioned as one of three softcore/mainstream conservative vote-getters, along with Canada's Marc Ouellet and Italy's Angelo Scola. Bergoglio then cannibalizes the votes of moderate cardinals Sean Patrick O'Malley (USA) and Odilo Scherer (Brazil), and finally picks up more and more of Ouellet's supporters until he defeats Scola after five ballots.

This is in part speculative, but the conventional wisdom/widespread educated guess is that Bergoglio started as a Latin American regional favorite who then gradually became the "anyone but Scola" candidate because of how the math shook out. It should be remembered that the 2013 conclave, unlike this year's, was, or at least seemed, fairly ideologically homogeneous; everyone in it had been appointed by John Paul II or Benedict XVI (themselves very similar to each other in most ways), and there was not a clear "progressive" option. What happened with Pope Francis as time went on was that it turned out that the Latin American cultural and theological environment that he came up in, when "scaled up" to the global Church, looked very different from Euro "conservative Catholicism". What we got from that was twelve years of a Pope who didn't actually make any major changes to Catholic doctrine and who had plenty of "hot mic" moments about women or gays of the sort one would expect from an elderly Peronist living and working in Italy, but who was enormously more concerned with what kind of place the Church was--how welcoming it was--for people who just "weren't like" the Central European and Northern Italian aristocrats and academics around John Paul and Benedict.

Also, people forget this today, but as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergoglio came across as much more doctrinaire and conservative, especially on issues related to sex, than he did as Pope. You can still find lots of LGBT South Americans, including LGBT South American Catholics, who have a very different and much less positive opinion of Francis than do similar people from other parts of the world. Suddenly having to deal with a worldwide constituency genuinely changed his way of looking at some things. The same might happen with a successor who isn't as good on these issues (then again it might not). With Cardinal Ambongo (papabile, deeply homophobic but otherwise Francis-aligned Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo) in particular there are reasons to believe that if he became Pope it'd be politically and logistically very difficult for him to reverse Francis's more pro-LGBT decisions, even though he might want to.

The Latin American cardinals of twelve years ago, who weren't well-understood in the West and who ended up producing, arguably even imposing, a Pope who reigned the way Francis did, are today the African and Asian cardinals who don't like gay people very much and often aren't crazy about women either, but who over the past week have mostly been interested in talking about climate change, decentralizing Church governance structures, and fighting terrorism through interreligious dialogue.

As to where I look for information: I first found these sources by Googling the cardinals' names and reading anything that didn't look like generic Global North boilerplate, but some that I've found that way are ACI Africa, 9News Nigeria, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Kaniva Tonga News, Radio New Zealand, the Papua New Guinea Post-Courier, and the Straits Times out of Singapore.

I hope some of this helps/is of interest to you!

[vinnocent]

I've been once again thinking of Benítez and Lawrence and their relationship because contrary to what most depictions make them, I don't think Benítez would be as attuned to his feelings or willing to open up as easily. This man is truly traumatized and only now is in a safe place to begin processing this trauma. He's probably more well equipped to deal with it than most but he still went through a lot, was exposed to so much.

I think it would influence his ability or willingness to develop healthy attachments. Not in a way that makes him overly attached rather in a way that makes him avoid it entirely. He has seen people he loved killed in front of him, had to make horrible choices in the face of violence, was probably betrayed more than once by people who harbor so much fear, people who he might have trusted. A long time ago he stopped making deep connections, knowing they will only hurt him, only make his work harder, he doesn't need people, he has God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit on his side. They helped him survive until now better and with less pain than any person has managed in his life, even his parents who probably did their best but haven't managed to get him medical care as a child and most likely sent him away to seminary to make sure he's taken care of.

The conclave, attaching to Thomas Lawrence and wanting him to become pope to the point of obsession (and I think this is canonical, especially in the book) was a fluke. He was in a strange new environment and recognized that he was acting under the influence of a deeply ingrained survival instinct. He wants to keep him close after the conclave for professional reasons only, a need for support he knows his inexperience in curia politics requires. He's doing what he needs to to survive that is all.

Enter Thomas Lawrence, a man who has been living a relatively quiet life, smoothly rising through the ranks of the church in a safe environment, forming healthy attachments and relationships. He has good friends, is mostly confident in his ability to offer and receive intimacy and affection in various forms, knows his limits and knows how to love. He willingly takes Vincent under his wing during the conclave, guiding him, making sure he knows he's not alone, cares for him. He extends a hand of friendship and doesn't pull it back after the conclave, allows Vincent to hold his hands during the room of tears without flinching, accept his request for help and guidance happily.

He would try to be a friend to Vincent who seems isolated from everything around him and is baffled by the gentle push back he gets to remain professional. That doesn't happen to Thomas often when he reaches out to someone. He tries again and again, offering to be a support beyond work, inviting him to sit together for tea and such, asks him if he's been taken care of properly. And Vincent is thoroughly uncomfortable, no one has ever offered him friendship and care to this extent and in this strange new place of politics and complex interactions he is unsure it doesn't have ulterior motives, unsure if he can trust it. So he keeps Thomas at arm's length, declining politely, becoming frustrated when Lawrence keeps coming back like a ball on a string, relentless and gently patient, knowing this is something Vincent will have to get used to, he's not in a war torn place anymore, he's safe and can relax.

It works eventually but Vincent takes a long time to acknowledge his feelings and wish to be close to anyone, his base instinct of fear needing a lot of time to melt away to allow healthy attachments in his life once again.

[liesmyth]

Could we possibly get the serious pope thoughts 🥺

I think he'll be all right on the kind of issues on which I actually want the catholic church to speak up on (environment, migrants). This is a big positive, and my main concern as soon as I heard the word "American"

I don't think he'll have half of Francis's deliberate humility. To put it in another way, I doubt Leo will piss off traditional Catholics by saying they should sell church belongings to give money to the poor (an actual reason some guy I knew in undergrad didn't like him). This post says it much better and I recommend giving it a read.

His LGBT+ rights record isn't stellar, but I can live with it. I know everyone on this website for the last couple of days has been going "What, you expected the pope to be woke? Checkmate idiots!" which, to me, feels kinda dismissive of the fact that faith is a deeply personal thing for millions of people, and I don't actually think it's ridiculous for queer Catholics to hope to see significant progress throughout their lifetime. Personally, I expect Leo will get better on this issue over the course of his papacy (as happened with Francis) and will at the very least normalise the current 'non-thrilled, but non-judgemental' stance that the church has started to adopt in the West.

His position on women in the church doesn't fill me with enthusiasm. Francis actually made an effort to include more women in relative leadership roles, notwithstanding the inherently patriarchal nature of the church. I it'll be a priority for Leo in any way.

His handling of abuse issues leaves a bad taste in my mouth and colours my impression of him irremediably. It's not so much that he handled church abuse badly (I think nearly all papable cardinals have, at some point, handled abuses badly); it's the fact that his involvement in those facts was publicly known, and he's still the candidate the conclave settled on. Basically, I care less about the fact that one individual contributed to a system-wide issue, and more about the fact that the conclave at large didn't consider it enough of a concern not to elect him. It shows where their priorities lie and it signals that there won't be any reckoning with this part of the church's legacy. I am not expecting him to acknowledge it.

I like the choice of name and I think it's promising in terms of where his priorities lie.

tldr: I don't love it but I am willing to hope for the best. I also don't look to the catholic clergy for moral guidance but I DO expect them to use their political influence, so that colours how I feel about the whole thing.

this is a good post and I generally recommend @monstrousgourmandizingcats if you're interested in these topics

[starfxkrinc]

https://www.tumblr.com/starfxkrinc/773389552087891968/pope-who-never-makes-it-out-the-hood-the-island

long one bc i started rambling!!!! this may or may nottttt make sense

yea sooooo. i imagine pope's still not on figure 8 bc of the forces that be (classism, racism, etc.). ignoring ward, the culture of the island just doesnt allow for that mobility.

BUT he has more power when he's older, bc 1. he's grown now, 2. his dad already has some strange influence just due to being a provider, and 3. i feel like he'd grow into himself. and he'd grow more into the idea that you have to do certain things (manipulate) to get certain things

so pope's got his kids on the cut. he wants the best for them, like any good father, but is also selfish. he's living vicariously through them, giving them (making them live) the life he couldn't live. he might be stricter about who they're friends with bc he kinda resents his younger self's activities and what they cost him. he prob still hangs w the pogues to an extent bc of loyalty and all that but yk he feels some typa way.

in addition to their peers, pope does his best to control their environment. he's the parent that shoehorns his way into everything that happens at the school. nobody really minds thought because, if anything, he makes them better. but then the teachers come into play.

none of them are good enough for him. they don't grade quick enough. they don't grade correctly - ms. finch knew what his daughter meant when she wrote that. whatever problem he can think of. and pope is a key member of the community and does so much for the school and is just such a bully that the teachers bend to his will and the ones who don't simply aren't teachers anymore.

enter you. brand new teacher, fresh off the mainland with the "make a difference" mindset. and you think pope just gets you. he comes in with his sweet talk about doing it for the kids (his kids) and you're so enamored he really doesn't even need to pull anything with you. he says just and you just know how high. depending on your disposition, he might even end up influencing you into moving up the ranks; from teacher to principal, more power means more helping the kids. do it for the kids.

now, does pope have a wife? maybe. maybe she left him because he was too intense, maybe he left her because she wasnt intense enough. maybe they're still together but you just know in your heart that a mother like that isnt good for the kids and that's what makes you okay with being the other woman.

OH THIS IS--

because you know nothing about the island, nothing about the heywards and specifically pope heyward so when the other staff are like "yeah heywards a real hardass, his poor kids be careful with him" and ur so lost because his kids seem fine if a bit stressed (like most middle/high schoolers) and he's been nothing but nice to you. if anything he's encouraged you to speak up and aim higher and he's slowly shoved you to the top of the food chain and you think its because he say your potential and he did...but not because he thinks your special. he needs a girl on the inside and you were it! a blank slate.

if he does have a wife though? you go from thinking fondly of her to looking down at her. shes not as smart as you. not as driven. shes all comforting hugs and "as long as you have fun thats all that matters!" and it pisses you off because its not her pushing her kids, its you

[twilightmalachite]

VS★PRINCESS - Battle Royale 9

Characters: Mao, Subaru, Tsukasa, Esu, Fuyume, Nice

Translator: Mika Enstars

JP Proofreader: 310mc

"Yup, that trait of his resembles you. That’s why I dislike it."

[Read on my blog for the best viewing experience with Oi~ssu ♪]

Season: Spring

Location: Prince Castle (Exterior)

Nice: “—THUNDERBOLT CHALLENGE 4piece, commonly known as 4piece.”

“To define it succinctly; its function is to uncover the Dream Unit I am to produce!”

“To put it even more precisely; it is a ceremony to select Special Idols who are to take flight around the world henceforth.”

Mao: Special idols, huh…?

Tsukasa: The SS was also based upon the premise of selecting the greatest Idols in Japan and the like, but a statement like that is quite nebulous, isn’t it?

Nice: “Let us start with the premise behind this all.”

“The company you belong to, ES, has essentially conquered the entire country’s idol industry through SS, taking hold of it and solidifying its position.”

“This is difficult to say from my position, but I shall say it as a matter of courtesy.”

“The company I work for, Thunderbolt, the largest entertainment company in the world, will put a halt to this.”

Esu: By the way, apparently NiceP is a general producer in Thunderbolt’s entertainment department.

Subaru: How high up the ranks is a general producer? You mean he’s not the president or anything?

Esu: It seems that the position of president, or the chief executive officer for that matter belongs to someone else entirely. But he’s sorta like the on-site chief executive?

I dunno if this is a metaphor that works well, but… like how there are kings that command politics and popes that command religion and beliefs, NiceP is like the commander-in-chief that actively oversees on-site activities.

Subaru: …Which is how high up the ranks?

Esu: I dunno, but I think he’s among Thunderbolt’s top five higher-ups!

Seems like Thunderbolt itself was founded by a relative of NiceP’s, and that’s where his name “Nice Arneb Thunder” comes from.

Fuyume: Actually, Esu, why do you know so much about old man Nice anyways? Do you like him or something?

Esu: I’m not like you, you know… No, it’s just that he said something about himself like that when I met him before, okay?

Fuyume: He sure loves to talk about himself, doesn’t he.

Esu: Yup, that trait of his resembles you. That’s why I dislike it.

Fuyume: Fufu. It’s okay. Yume is the world’s one and only Yume.

No matter how much Yume is imitated, they are nothing but fakes in the end.

Esu: I wouldn’t be able to stand it if there were more than one of your nasty personalities.

Nice: “The founder of Thunderbolt—my great grandfather—came to the United States at a young age and gradually expanded his influence primarily in the entertainment music market throughout the West.”

“The idol industry had been in decline up until recently in Japan, leaving no commercial opportunity despite our special affinity for it.”

“Fetters of all kinds, with plenty of troubles and evils to spare… Such things were prevalent in the entertainment industry of the past, you could say it left us no room to enter.”

“However, minds have changed after seeing the rapid growth of ES, a company born in this Far Eastern land.”

“Indeed, ES is a magnificent organization for idols! That is, if you only look at it in terms of achieving results.”

“But just as there is no such thing as a cure-all, there is no method that works for everyone.”

“An idol utopia, by idols, for idols… was it?”

“While the concept itself is wonderful, there are many idols whose talents are becoming buried in the current environment.”

“For example, those that stray from the producing policy of P-Association and the unit policy.”

“There are also those whose individuality and talent become suppressed when in a unit.”

Nice: “This is why I proposed this project to ES; the supreme audition program, hosted by a world-class producer.”

“Everyone here are the idols who responded to the invitation I extended to ES.”

“Additionally, I have also given the idols with raw talent (that) I have scouted across the country a temporary affiliation with ES for the time being—”

“There is a reason that such lengths have been undergone in order to plan this program.”

“We would like to produce idols from Japan with all the know-how that Thunderbolt has accumulated thus far, and aim for the world.”

“Through the form of a competition between individuals, we would like to discover the raw talent that has been neglected up until now.”

“That is why 4piece exists.”

“Here, we will elect idols who are outstanding, worthy to be introduced to the world, through 4piece.”

“The idols selected will then be officially recognized by both ES and Thunderbolt, thereafter becoming “Special Idols”.”

“—The “Nice Dream Unit”. The objective of 4piece is the formation of this group.”

“The “Selected Idols” chosen here at 4piece will then have a song and music video released to the world under my production.”

“We promise to collaborate only with world-class, top-notch artists.”

“Some of you might be thinking—‘But it’s only one song!’”

“However, that one song will change the world.”

“That’s what happened to the winners of an audition program I previously held overseas.”

“Through a song made under only the best production, they took flight across the world, their lives changed forever.”

“The members of this Nice Dream Unit will be idols that belong to ES.”

“Simultaneously, they will also become partnered with the world’s largest entertainment company, Thunderbolt.”

“The higher the success of these “Selected Idols”, the higher the regard and reputation of ES and Thunderbolt go as well.”

“Both organizations benefit; it's a win-win.”

“That being said, this does not fully avert conflict between the two organizations.”

“As long as ES does not abandon its ambition of world conquest, Thunderbolt will continue to remain vigilant against such a turbulent entity.”

“The moment ES treads upon Thunderbolt’s territory, war will begin!”

“However, by joining their two hands to carry out this project called 4piece, and creating the fruit of both their love, the Dream Unit—”

“I hope the experiences shared, and the “Children of Hope” it brings forth…”

“Will bring love to the world, and become the catalyst to avoid war.”

“Do you find this to be the ravings of a misguided and romantic idealist?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Love and peace, for eternity—”

“That, and that alone, is my wish, always and forever.”

[ ☆ ]

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[scotianostra]

On July 11th 1274 Robert the Bruce was born in Turnberry Castle, Ayrshire.

Sorry for the lack of posts yesterday I was out the house all day, I am showing friends round Edinburgh today but will try and get a few posts scheduled, this first one is of course a "biggie"

I don't like repeating the same old story, especially on posts like this, The Bruce turns up so often in my posts that it isn't any wonder he is part of the Scottish Psyche. In 2006 Robert the Bruce came third in a poll of ‘most important Scots’, behind William Wallace and Robert Burns. Leaving aside what that says about the nation that produced, among others, David Hume and Adam Smith, Alexander Fleming and John Logie Baird, there can be no doubt that a king that ruled 700 years ago is still very much remembered by Scots today and, even more pertinently, that his life and achievements are deemed to be profoundly influential. It is hard to imagine Edward III or Henry V of England being similarly admired.

Not a lot is known about Robert's early life so unfortunately I do end up repeating parts of his life.....

Looking into how he came to be our Monarch, Bruce’s grandfather had come off second best in 1292 to a rival claimant to the Scottish throne, John Balliol, who then reigned for four years until Edward I deprived him of his kingship in 1296. John Comyn of Badenoch, as Balliol’s nephew, had both an arguably better claim by blood and certainly by power, influence and track record than Robert Bruce, for his own ambitions, whether it be just to become King, or for the sake of ridding Scotland of Edwards army Robert had to ‘deal’ with his rival before seeking the throne for himself.

In this fracturing and fevered environment, the would-be king turned to Bishop Robert Wishart of Glasgow, a man who had shown himself consistently motivated since the 1280s by a desire to keep Scotland intact and independent (though he, like most Scots, had on occasions been forced to acknowledge King Edward as ruler of the northern kingdom). We do not know that Bishop Wishart made Bruce ‘swear upon the Holy Gospels and the tomb of St Kentigern’ to pursue the cause of Scottish independence with his life, if necessary. Equally, no chronicler at the time mentions the introduction of elements of sacramental kingship that the Scots had long sought from the pope but been denied thanks to English claims of overlordship on the day that Bruce finally did become king.

If you've seen the new film about The Bruce, you will know it is all about the man himself, rather than the historical facts in his reign, and that's why I liked it, I mean come on, we ALL know the story by now and if you don't what have you been doing for the past few years as you haven't been reading my posts!

Robert Bruce, was a man possessed with the ability to think laterally and effectively on almost every issue but saddled by his own hand with one of the most dodgy starts to a successful reign as any in history. Some say he learned to think this way after observing William Wallace, I also like to think this, but he had enough savvy himself to be his own man.

The problem with looking at Scotland in those heady days is that, unlike England, we hardly wrote anything down, Edward and his constant war waging meant he had to raise money for these attacks on Scotland and Wales beforehand, so the English always had that extra layer of bureaucracy, while historians can look at some of their records to glean information about Scotland, we mainly have to look at Chroniclers, like Lanecrost, or the likes of Blind Harry, the author of "he Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace" And John Barbour who wrote "The Brus". In the first case Harry wrote his epic over 150 years after William Wallace's murder. At least Barbour was living in an age where The Bruce was alive, albeit for nine of the years, but events and stories were still fresh and must have been repeated often about our Kings heroics in unting Scotland and vanquishing the English. But Barbour was never going to write anything negative about Bruce, it was Robert II, the first of the Stewart line, that asked Barbour to write the poem, it was always going to be a great propaganda exercise.

Okay let's go back a wee bit, there has been some debate about where Bruce was born, some mischief makers even suggest he was not born at Turnberry, after all we have no diminutive proof, but at Writtle in deepest Essex. The Bruce family owned swathes of land down south, and there is no doubt the young Robert would have spent time in the depths of the English royal courts, he was not uncouth Scottish brute, he grew up in a world of fluid identities, no doubt speaking a number of languages, and with easy access to both the overtly powerful and impressively formal English court as well as the highly personal and personable style of kingship still preferred in Scotland.

One of the things Robert the Bruce may very well have learned from the English and used most notably was the commandeering of noble seals to be attached to documents of state in order to present a veneer of unity to the outside world, this is most notable in the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath, it has been argued he took this inspiration from King Edwards, Ragman Rolls, Edward I’s large-scale demand for Scottish seals to acknowledge his right to rule Scotland in 1296.

After Bannockburn and the Declaration of Arbroath King Robert’s genius as a lawmaker and diplomat to rival his undoubted skill as a military leader has also been admired, he had a fine line to tread, while he had gained the upper hand against Edward II's army, many Scots fought against him that day, or at very least supported the English. Even after his death some of those families on the losing side that would come back to try and regain lands and titles from the second Bruce monarch, his son King David II.

The pics are King Robert's statue at Bannockburn and two reconstructions of how Turnbery may have looked, by my Twitter friend Andrew Spratt.

[kylesvariouslistsandstuff]

Oh looky, I just watched something that all the cool folks are into. Or, were into?

THE AMAZING DIGITAL CIRCUS...

It's been out for two months now, so I'm - as usual - late to the party.

Kind of like a barfed up '90s utopian scholastic hodgepodge purgatory with an ominous and grim underbelly, probably an indictment of capitalism making one's desires unattainable and one's subsequent pursuit of such desires a one-way ticket to insanity... Or maybe not. The characters are instantly likeable and cool, and work off of each other so well. The variety in design, even within the characters themselves... just so neat- It's also lowkey funny. "Gloink" is such a late '90s kids show/game word for something.

As someone who grew up in the late '90s/early '00s, this was right up my alley. My immediate thoughts were basically... This is a lot like colorful (and sometimes educational) PC games of the era, wacky textbook covers, things like I SPY, and a Dreamcast-exclusive game called PEN PEN TRIICELON. One of creator Gooseworx's influences on the project was a CGI Japanese children's show called POPEE THE PERFORMER. In some ways, POPEE does kinda fit into this wild and varied aesthetic that was so prevalent in a pre-9/11 era.

I particularly appreciated its veering towards a dream-like... Maybe, trance? Almost? I love it when animated media, and most media in general, takes on a sort of irreality, and can sometimes be ambiguous as to what's happening and what isn't. Particularly this scene towards the end where protagonist Pomni is running through endless sterile rooms, until briefly coming across a boxy late '90s PC. The void, too... Visceral flashbacks to being at my Compaq in, like, 2000-01... Playing a game where there was nothing beyond the environment I was in. Just endless sky and nothingness. That kind of thing always brought an eerieness to that era's games, to me. Hey, that's why the "Lethal Omen" game from GEMINI HOME ENTERTAINMENT really worked for me.

This sort of unsettling spin on past, and possibly outdated aesthetics, has arguably been done to death. Especially after the explosion in analog horror and FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S, but I'm quite impressed with AMAZING DIGITAL CIRCUS' more digital yet-still-vintage take on this sort of thing. Wait... Stuff from 2000 being vintage? That's a dreadful thought... It's also cool to see more productions embrace how early CGI can be unnerving for some, too. An underrated aspect of early features and shorts, for sure. This married a lot of that, and I appreciated it for doing so.

[sincerelyjxyy]

Gold Rush - Four

Invisible String - Gold Rush

Chapter Four - Blue Eyes and Safe Smiles

Song Of The Chapter - Ceilings by Lizzy McAlpine

✧ softness is not weakness. it takes courage to stay delicate in a world this cruel. — beau taplin, shed your sharp edges ✧

Summary: The Pogues go on a mission to find out who was the owner of the Grady-White, only to find out it was one of their own. Now, they are determined to find out and steal whatever is hidden in the boat.

Warning: Depiction of panic attack in this chapter.

Word Count: 10.1k

Gold Rush Masterlist

THE KILDARE ISLAND BOAT DOCKS WERE SIGNIFICANT TO THE LIFE OF AN OUTER BANKS RESIDENT. On any average day, if one were to walk through or pass by the docks, they'd fine them full of sailors, fishermen, and lost tourists. At times, it could be quite crowded, but it was manageable enough that there was always someone available to help.

That particular day, however, was the one right after a hurricane. So, one could imagine the hectic atmosphere swarming the docks when the group of friends arrived.

The pogues made their way toward the Coast Guard building, walking under canopies set up for all different types of storm relief. Josie felt the stressful environment influencing her own worries as she observed the troubled, panic-stricken people that begged for help.

She pulled the hat that JJ had given her further over her eyes, as she tried to be as inconspicuous as possible. The last thing she needed was to get caught by anyone who might mention her location to her mother.

In passing, she overheard people mention that they were looking for their lost loved ones. She strained to listen as the Coast Guard radioed in through their walkie-talkies to help find and save whoever they could.

But there were only so many of them that could help, compared to the number of people who'd shoved themselves into the building.

As the five of them navigated through the crowd, Josie was able to catch the sounds of a woman at the desk who begged for someone to help search for her diabetic dog. It made Josie's heart clench in sorrow. She felt for all of the animals and people that were lost and scared out there, looking for their own loved ones after the storm. And she silently thanked whoever that she'd woken up that morning with their cat in her bed.

They approached the help desk, and Josie watched as John B tried to gain the attention of the desk attendant, to no avail. "Hey, excuse me."

JJ picked up a pen from the desk to mess with while he also tried to speak up. "Hey man, we found a boat-" He'd also been cut off by the worker, who continued to converse with the distressed woman.

Josie too tried, but her slight calls predictably fell on deaf ears. 

"You're gonna wanna hear this." That time John B tried to get out that they had found a sunken boat, the attendee snapped at him and told him to calm down.  Even though, Josie sharply noted, her friend's tone showed no sign of obnoxiousness.

But she understood that the guy was probably super overwhelmed.

Josie shook her head to signify that their plan was a bust, and she gently plucked the pen out of JJ's hand and placed it back into its container. John patted them on the shoulder as he passed. "C'mon, let's go. We'll figure something else out." Josie nodded, and the duo followed him out.

"Well, that went well," Pope offered sarcastically as they gathered outside the building. Kie and Josie shared a look of incredulity at the utter chaos happening inside. The brunette leaned back against one of the deck posts, and Josie leaned against her as she once again pulled the hat down.

JJ leaned his arm on John B's shoulder. "So, what's the plan?"

Of course, the boys were itching to head straight into action. How could they not?

John B smiled as he held up the motel key. "Think I know how we're gonna find the guy who owns that boat."

"Ever the trouble magnet, I see." Josie nodded at the boy as she chuckled, and John B couldn't help but wink in return. The girls turned to knowingly smirk at one another. John B, ever the adventurer, was going to lead them all on a wild goose chase for this mystery person.

Josie couldn't deny that she was a bit curious herself.

Pope shook his head in disagreement. "No, no no. We don't know whose room that is. It could belong to anyone." Josie sighed and pulled away from her stance against her friend, patting Pope on the shoulder in solidarity. It was easy to see that he was not going to win that argument.

JJ snatched the key from John B's hand. "I'm in," he declared, before tossing it to Josie.

She teasingly hung them out toward Pope as she walked backward, swaying them from her fingers. JJ raced to follow her, walking short steps behind her as they slowed turned away from the bustling building.

Kiara laughed at Pope as she tried to reason with him. "C'mon, we'll be lookout." She moved to join JJ and Josie, and the trio waited as John B persuaded Pope.

"Finder's fee. Just sayin'. And, hey, at least you'll only be an accomplice."

Josie led the group as she made her way down the dock, JJ on her tail. She knowingly laughed upon hearing Pope give in. She overheard John B's "C'mon, Bubba" and peered over her shoulder to see Pope turn to follow them.

"C'mon, P. If I can decide to put my valedictorianship on the line, the least you can to is put the scholarship down!"

She couldn't see it, but she knew Pope was rolling his eyes from the back of the group. It had been a running joke between the two of them to disagree on who would become valedictorian at graduation—a bit of friendly competition. She knew it could rile him up just enough to do anything.

"That is, if you get it," Pope disputed, blowing out a raspberry that Josie giggled at. Either way, the two of them would be proud of whomever got the honor.

Josie led the group back over to where the Pogue was docked. Before she could jump into the boat, JJ held his arm out to stop her and get in first. Once in the boat, he then held his hand out to help her down.

"She's gonna get it," JJ added, eyes never leaving Josie as she grabbed his hand.

Josie smiled down at him, ignoring the gagging motion Pope directed at John B, as she made her way onto the boat. JJ had always been the biggest believer that she could easily win at anything. She thought he put way too much faith in her, but it was nonetheless appreciated.

Once they were all settled aboard, the group began their journey to the Summerwind Motel, its name faintly printed on the keychain. The plans were set for what to do when they arrived; Kie and Pope would be lookouts; Josie, JJ, and John B would check out the room and see what they could find.

After a few minutes of navigating around the island, and making their way through the Heyward Sound, they eventually moved down The Cut and found the motel. As they slowly approached, Josie couldn't help but note how much it looked like it'd come right out of one of those don't do drugs, or this is where you'll live programs on television. It'd been utterly defiled by hurricane damage.

JJ whistled in surprise. "I thought the Chateau looked bad." He stepped up onto the bow to grab the tie-off rope.

"This place is a shitshow," John B commented as he steered the boat toward the bank. Josie couldn't believe she'd never seen the building before, having lived on the island for more than half of her life.

"Motel or meth lab?" Kie questioned as she scanned the area in disbelief.

"You be the judge."

Josie glanced around to survey the damage that had made the place even more spooky than it probably was normally. "This place had definitely seen better days."

"I don't think it has," Pope quipped once again, his face set in seriousness.

"Doesn't look like the type of place someone with a Grady-White would stay," John B pointed out, and Josie nodded her head in agreement.

"No. Looks like the type of place someone with a Grady-White would get killed," Pope reiterated.

He was right, it did look like somewhere right out of Law and Order where someone would be brutally murdered. Still, for someone who had a weird obsession with death, he seemed super pessimistic about the possibility of seeing a dead body.

Josie's eyes once again wandered around the surrounding area of the motel. The run-down sign had been knocked down, obviously by the strong winds of the storm. Palm trees were toppled all around the building, some laying on cars in the lot. Part of the roof had been torn off and covered by tarps, and trash littered the water and ground surrounding the building.

It really did look worse for wear.

"Alright, here we go." John B steered his way closer to the bank, and Josie stood to move onto the bow beside JJ. She chuckled as JJ mimicked the sound of a walkie-talkie into his shoulder.

"This is your captain speaking. HMS Pogue comin' in for landing." He jumped off the front and onto land, stopping the boat with his hands, and began to tie it down. Josie grabbed her backpack and threw it over her shoulders.

"We good?" John B checked.

JJ seemed satisfied with the tie as she shot out a "yeah, we good." He stuck his hand out for Josie, who took it and jumped to join him on the bank. Once she felt stable on her legs, they turned to face the group.

"Alright, here goes nothing." John B moved to join the two of them, when Pope's voice called out for his attention.

"Hey."

"Yeah?" John B turned to look at Pope, who pointed over to JJ.

"Don't let him do anything stupid." Pope's behest came from a good place, Josie was sure, but she snorted at the unlikelihood of it.

JJ jokingly widened his eyes and placed a hand over his heart as he looked at Josie, who shrugged with cheerfully pursed lips. He quickly dropped the façade and turned back to Pope. "Oh, we will."

"I'm not making promises." John B shook his head, which caused Pope to shrink back in disappointment.

"Yeah, I know."

The genius boy then glanced over to catch Josie's gaze—a last resort. She simply shrugged and lifted a hand up to pat JJ's shoulder. "I'll do my best, buddy, but you know how persuasive this one can be." JJ smirked and nodded his head, throwing his arm over Josie's shoulder.

Pope defeatedly shook his head. "Just try to keep yourselves from any imminent death." He sternly pointed at Josie, and she two-finger saluted him in response.

"Be careful," Kie directed at John B. Her glance fleetingly wandered to Josie, before it returned back to the brunette. Josie watched the interaction closely as she twirled the motel key around her index finger. She tried to piece together the sudden chemistry between her friends.

When did that happen?

She peered up at JJ, whose arm remained perched around her shoulder, and raised an eyebrow—a silent question of if he saw what she did. He smirked down at her, wiggling her eyebrows at the implication of the best friends having tension.

"I mean it."

John B gave out a slightly confused chuckle, before confirming that he understood as he moved to join the other two. They dubiously stared at him as he jumped down with them and patted JJ's arm in passing. "Let's go."

The trio made their way through the hurricane-wrecked parking lot, with Josie trying her best to avoid any rodents hiding out in the trash. JJ jumped at her, mimicking a feral animal growl, and laughed when she annoyedly shoved him away from her. She kept her eyes trained on the area around them as they approached the outdoor staircase.

Josie huffed as she watched the boys dart up the stairs. Because, naturally, the room had to be on the second floor. Go figure.

Josie huffed as she held onto the side railing, knuckles stark white, and cautiously took the metal-grated steps one at a time. She flinched every time the metal croaked or her eyes wandered downward to the holes of the metal. She tried to keep her focus on the back of JJ's head above her.

As they climbed up the steps, John B looked around at all of the furniture that had been moved outside and leaned against the railings. Mattresses, lamps with no shades, and blankets were haphazardly strewn out in the hallway of the motel. Josie figured they probably just needed a good clean.

"Why are all these mattresses out?"

"After a hurricane, they have to ditch 'em 'cause they're all moldy," JJ apprised easily, turning to watch as Josie slowly ascended to the top of the stairs. He stuck his tongue out at her when she reached them, and she shoved him to turn around and walk.

She internally praised herself for managing a set of stairs without having an anxious meltdown.

"Just be so careful, John B." JJ seductively mocked Kiara as he grabbed John B by his shoulders and caressed his jaw.

Josie let out a small giggle and watched, entertained, as John B shoved the blond off of him. "God, you're so weird."

"Dude, what the heck was that about?" JJ referenced the obvious looks at Kiara sent John B's way during their departure. It wasn't that Kiara never suggested caution or expressed concern for them, but the way she'd looked at John B seemed to convey a bit more than just worrying about the group's safety.

"I don't know. Maybe she wants us to be careful," John B plainly reasoned.

He pleadingly glanced at Josie to reel their friend in, but she shrugged in denial. She enjoyed the light-hearted teasing that JJ threw his way, which John B often partook in when aimed at the rest of them. If he could dish it out, he should be able to take it.

"Since she heard you're being threatened with exile she's just been like-" JJ massaged his shoulders, releasing little teasing moans as he mimicked a feminine voice. "Oh! Be so careful, John B."

John B tried to push him off, but JJ wasn't fazed. "Oh, just give me that John D already." He backed off to grin at Josie, before he pointed toward the boat. "Like when are you gonna swoop on that, man?"

Josie's eyes widened, fully prepared to bring up their most important rule, when John B beat her to it. "Bro, you know the rule. No Pogue-on-Pogue Mackin'." John B pointed toward the boat for emphasis and raised his brows at Josie. She agreeably nodded and smacked the arm of the boy to her right.

John B turned to point matter-of-factly. "You would get that if you weren't hitting on Jose twenty-four-seven."

Said girl desperately tried to conceal the redness that rushed up her neck. She adamantly blamed it on the blistering heat outside and not the very distant and improbable concept of JJ purposely hitting on her. It was all playful banter—nothing to come from it.

She was in a growingly serious relationship, and he didn't do girlfriends. Most importantly, they were best friends.

It was out of the question.

"Dude, of course I'm hitting on her. Have you seen this girl?" JJ carelessly wrapped his arm around Josie's shoulder as they walked, and she lightly elbowed in his stomach in retaliation.

She really wanted to refrain from thinking about JJ that way, too afraid of the path her brain might wander down. She couldn't afford to think about someone who wasn't her boyfriend like that. Especially not JJ, her JJ.

"She's a super-hot, rich, history nerd slumming with us and her hot, rich, hippie chick best friend." Josie shrugged his arm off her shoulder as he spoke, rushing forward to walk beside John B.

"Why? I can't figure it out either, but who cares, bro?" He playfully grabbed the top of Josie's head. "I know this door's locked because I've tried it. Have you?" He pointed out to where Kie and Pope were for emphasis, and Josie swatted his hand away.

A part of her really wished she'd stayed on that boat.

"You need help," John B reproached as he looked over at Josie, who concurrently nodded. "Not a little bit of help, you need a lotta help. 'Cause it's like every girl who just has a heartbeat, you're like...uhh." He imitated what Josie could only assume was a terrible climaxing sound.

She grimaced, eyes quickly moving away from the boys. Maybe she could throw herself over the railing. Facing her biggest fear seemed better than having to deal with this conversation any longer.

She absentmindedly picked at her nails and tried her hardest not to picture JJ in the vulnerable and intimate state that John B had inferred.

"I mean, what? Is that a big deal?"

Josie immediately wanted to interject that, yes, it was a particularly massive deal, but she halted as they stopped in front of the door. The topic was something they'd always heavily contradicted each other on—the sacredness of sex.

She was grateful for a distraction when they'd stopped at the door at the end of the hall. Room two-twenty-nine. "This is it."

JJ confirmed that it was indeed the room they'd looked for, and he walked around the other two to face the door. The blond knocked in a random pattern, putting on a feminine voice as he called out to whoever may be in there. "Housekeeping."

Josie hid her giggle behind her palm and shut lips as he tapped again, before he moved to the window to do the same.

John B looked over at Josie and motioned to the key in her hand. "Should we try it?"

She turned to JJ to be sure, and he nodded. "Yeah. No persona aquí." With his confirmation, Josie bent down to unlock the door. "No power. No security cameras. No one's gonna know."

She stepped back as the door swung open, allowing JJ to brush past her and walk in first to check that the coast was clear. John B flashed a light inside, and they quickly discerned that the room was empty. "Huh, okay."

The three of them entered the room, and Josie's eyes immediately scanned for blood or anything out of the ordinary. She was cautious in her search for anything that would warrant dragging the boys right back out of the room.

"I'll check the bag. See if there's a name on there somewhere." John B shut the door behind them, approaching the bag on the bed.

He used his flashlight to rummage through the duffle, as JJ dug through the person's coat, and Josie examined the inside of the dresser drawers. They listed everything they could find. "Definitely over fifty. He's got New Balances."

Josie laughed at his declaration. "Hey, my Pépé wears New Balances, and they look great on him," Josie joked. She ran her hands through the jeans in the drawers for anything that might be hidden. No such luck.

She looked up at catch John B's pointed stare. "Yeah, and your Pépé's like eighty-four."

Josie rolled her eyes, ignoring the statement, and crawled around to the side of the bed closest to the door. She reached down to check under it as JJ read the paper that was laid out on the beside table. "Yo, dude, c'mere. Maybe, this is where they were fishing..."

"Let me see."

The boys congregated around the side table as Josie moved her arm around under the bed, praying that nothing bit her or chopped her hand off if it was hiding. But she couldn't bring herself to look under the bed; she'd hate knowing for sure if something was there.

Once she was certain nothing was under that bed, she made her way to the opposite side of the furthest bed. She gave herself a little breath of support, before she once again stuck her arm out under it.

"Right there." JJ pointed to the sticky note of coordinates attached to the map, but John B quickly shut him down.

"No, that's off the continental shelf. That's Big Swell. Nobody fishes there."

"Well, they do," Josie chimed in, her tongue stuck out the corner of her mouth as she flailed her arm around under the bed. "They just never catch anything."

She knew that she probably looked extremely stupid, but she wanted to take extra precautions to ensure that there weren't any hidden mics or cameras attached to the bottom of the bed. She'd seen plenty of spy movies and crime shows to know that one could never be too careful.

She closed her eyes, mentally pushing herself to face her fear, and laid on her stomach to slide under the bed. She looked around for anything out of the ordinary, like a blinking red light or a black box.

"Coffee, Jose?" John B called out, and she huffed from her spot halfway under the bed. Any other time she'd take him up on the offer—not really one to turn down a good cup of bean juice. But she doubted that the old, musty motel coffee pot was very trustworthy.

"Yeah, standard. Tissues for when you get lonely..." JJ's fake British accent faded as he passed by the bed, discovering where a half-covered Josie laid under it.

He shined the flashlight at her, and he definitely did not admire the view of her backside from where he stood. "What the heck are you doing?"

"Checking for bugs, being paranoid. You know, the ushe."

JJ hummed, both in acknowledgement and humor, and left her to it to make his way into the bathroom. "Ooh!"

"D'you find anything?" John B called out to the boy. He turned to look at Josie, who decided that she maybe was being a bit neurotic, as she crawled out from under the bed. That was, until her hand grasped something stuck to the bottom of the bed, and she let out a triumphant cheer.

She pulled out from beneath the bed, face quickly growing red with embarrassment as she examined what she held up. The black sock hung limp from her hands, and John B did his best to stifle his laugh down to a chuckle.

"A really awesome Dopp kit you won't let me steal," JJ quipped as Josie dejectedly stared at the item in her grasp.

"Yeah, 'cause we're not stealing shit."

The kleptomaniacal boy glanced back at Josie as he exited the bathroom, smirking at the sock in her hand. "I know you were looking for bugs, but I gotta tell you. There's only one reason a stray black sock is hangin' out under a bed." He wiggled his eyebrows for effect, and Josie immediately tossed the fabric away from her.

"Eugh, men are disgusting."

She watched as John B opened the cabinets to the entertainment center, eyes widening when she realized he was imputing a code into a safe. She scurried across the floor to stop beside him, and she deliberately avoided picturing all of the disgusting excrements that she maneuvered over.

Josie could ascertain what her friend was doing when he went from imputing all ones to substituting the last number with a two. She groaned and smacked his arm. "You do realize there are ten thousand unique combinations you could repeat, dumbass. So, unless you plan to be here until graduation, that isn't going to work."

"You got a better idea?" John B crossly snapped; forehead creased as he looked at her. She shook her head and pointed to the safe door.

"No, but I have enough common sense to know how idiotic it is to press some random buttons and hope for the best." She raised her hand at John B, before moving it to the safe. "Dumbass, meet dumb solution."

"Dumb solution my ass-" The two of them quietly squabbled back and forth until John B huffed and abruptly halted their argument.

"What?" Josie inquired, watching as he stood and made his way back toward JJ and the table.

"Wait a second, wait a second, wait a second. Here." He grabbed a little piece of paper that sat under the phone on the table. Josie shook her head at him, ignorant due to his lack of explanation.

All the while, JJ stood at the table busy as he tried to decipher if the coordinates actually did mean something. "I don't know. I don't know about the second one. Jose, c'mere."

Josie left John B to the safe as she stood up, joining JJ to look over the map of the area surrounding the Banks. "Wait. My cousin said you could catch swordfish here."

Josie shook her head at him, untrustworthy of most of the Maybank cousins. "Cousin Ricky or Cousin Bucky? Because Cousin Bucky also said that you could throw up cash if you prayed hard enough, remember?"

"Yeah, you're right, that wouldn't make any sense. What about a surf spot?" JJ offered, but Josie shook her head again.

She pointed to the shelf that lay a little further inland than the coordinates. "No, look, it's way too far out. You'd get fined if they caught you out there."

"Maybe it's shoals. Have you heard of shoals?"

Josie turned her head to check on John B's progress, and the sight of the opened safe caused her eyes to widen. She lightly tapped JJ's shoulder with the back of her hand, her gaze fixed on the wads of cash and the weapon that sat in front of John B. "Uh...JJ?"

"Hm?"

His eyes followed to where Josie's were as John B spoke up. "You're gonna want to see this." He held up a stack of the bills, and JJ's eyes widened like saucers.

Josie was speechless.

John B moved to let JJ approach the safe, but both the brunette and Josie instantly regretted as JJ snatched the gun from the safe. "Dude, dude, dude!" The younger pogue could only get his words out excitedly as he backed away with the weapon.

Josie gasped and rushed over to hold JJ's arm pointed down. He tried to wriggle out of the grasp to examine the gun some more, but Josie's grip was iron clad.

"You grabbed the gun. You grabbed the gun. Would you put the-" John B hissed out in disbelief, not able to finish due to his bewilderment. Josie released JJ to glare at the other boy with a duh expression on her face.

It was JJ. He was obviously going to grab the freaking gun!

"This is a SIG Sauer," JJ cried out in amazement. Despite the boy's obvious awe, Josie couldn't focus on anything other than the stress building through her body. The last thing she needed was for him to shoot his toe off.

"Put the gun back, JJ," John B scolded. Josie rubbed at the bridge of her nose, ignoring the internal berating of her mother's voice, and watched John B's attempt to reign JJ in.

JJ's noises of giddiness bled through the tone of his voice as he cradled the weapon. "This is a fucking spendy gatt, man! Jose, Jose, look! Bap, chicka bap." JJ pretended to make gunshot noises and shoot all around the room, while Josie ducked and shrunk away from where he pointed the gun. She punched him in the stomach, hard enough that he had to stop himself from doubling over as he grunted in pain.

"Are you insane, JJ Maybank? You can't just point a weapon around willy-nilly! The first gun was made in China in the year 1000. Y'know what that means? It means thousands of people since then have died from accidental firing. You are not the exception," Josie angrily hissed at him. She pushed down both of his arms that dual-wielded the gun and the flashlight like he was a cop in a tv show.

"Besides, we are not stealing anything," John B chided through clenched teeth as he shared a frustrated look with the girl. JJ could've gotten them caught if he wasn't careful, or worse.

"Jose, please take a picture of me. Right here." Josie incredulously stared at him, shaking her head as he stared at her with pleading eyes.

"You want her to take a picture of you?" John B asked, completely unimpressed.

"Yeah, dude, like-" He posed, and Josie rolled her eyes at his audacity. She loved him, incredibly so, but he was testing the immense amount of patience she had for him.

From the look on John B's face, he agreed. "You wanna make our own incriminating evidence? Is that what you're talking about?"

JJ stared at them both in increasing realization that they would, in fact, get into a ton of shit if someone found photos of JJ holding a stolen gun on any of their devices. He defeatedly looked down at the gun, twisting it in his hands to inspect it.

Josie jumped at the sharp sound of something hitting the window. "Wait, what was that?" John B moved to peek out the window, and JJ questioned him again.

"What, what's going on?" Josie worriedly inquired when John B quickly moved away from the window, muttering out a curse as he jumped over the bed to look out of the window by the door.

"Cops," John B mumbled. His statement was quickly followed by a knock on the door, and Shoupe's voice rang out.

"Kildare County Sheriff's Department."

Josie was thrown into immediate panic, looking around for any solution to their predicament. John B made his way back to the window by the beds and slid it open, but she paid no mind to either boy as anxiety swallowed her whole. The fear of her mother finding out where she was outweighed anything else.

Maybe she could hide in the bathroom, or under the bed.

Once John B was halfway out the window, he motioned out his hand for a panicked Josie to take. She immediately shook her head. "No, no, no, no, no. I'm not doing that, nope. No way, John B."

"Fine, you wanna tell Shoupe that we broke into a hotel room, or why JJ's holding a gun that's not his? What do you think he's gonna tell your mom?" John B knew it was a low blow, but he had to get her out that window somehow.

Still, she shook her head, despite the insistent wave of his hand for her to grab.

"Jose, I'll be with you the entire time. I won't let anything happen," JJ spoke up hurriedly from behind her. He placed his hands firmly on her waist as he gently pushed her closer to the window. She continued to shake her head, tears building up as John B grasped her arm and helped her through.

Her eyes squeezed shut as she climbed out, and she immediately reached back for JJ as he clambered out behind her. John B let go of her arm once she had a firm hold on JJ. The tears freely cascaded down her face as she let the blond move around her to stand furthest from the window and by the edge.

She tried to avoid looking down, choking back sobs as JJ wrapped an arm around her back and pulled her as close to him as humanly possible. She wrapped both arms around him and tucked herself into his side, squeezing tight enough to also protect him from falling to his death.

She focused on his soothing voice as it whispered sweet reassurances and claims that she was okay. Promises that he had her and wasn't going to let anything happen to her. She desperately attempted to not think about being forced onto the rood where she was hiding from her uncle and could potentially fall to her death at any moment.

It was paralyzing—the reaffirmation that she was off the ground. At any time, JJ could lose his grip on her, or worse, he himself could plummet off the roof. The anxiety in her chest rose to a bile in her throat as she sobbed into her friend's shirt. He hadn't stopped whispering into her hair and rubbing his hand up and down her side, but she couldn't concentrate on anything other than her fear.

She pleaded with herself to change her thoughts as John B peeked into the room through a crack he'd left in the blinds. She could feel JJ motioning out toward something behind her, which she assumed was probably the others on the boat.

She sought comfort where she could, moving her left hand slowly from her friend's side up his torso and to his neck. She grabbed ahold of the pendants dangling from the cord around his neck—a shark tooth that had always been apart of the necklace and a stray golden sun pendant that was an addition. She twisted them in between her fingers, focusing on the cool feeling of them on her skin.

She thought about the palms that tightly trapped her against JJ—safe and secure; she knew that he'd die before he let her succumb to the reality of her fear. The roughness of his calluses soothed her as they rubbed her side, occasionally meeting her skin as the fabric of her shirt lifted with his movements. The large size of his hands made it apparent that his hold was unwavering, with his grip slightly tightening every time Josie choked out a low sob.

She focused on the breath blowing just above the upper shell of her ear, lightly brushing the wisps of hair by her face. The constant honey-sweet words that spewed from lush pink lips—words that Josie stuffed into her heart like the cotton of a pillow. She listened as he promised, like it was his only purpose in life, to make sure that she would be okay.

He was her best friend, her sunshine, and her co-captain. He'd always protect her.

She turned her head from JJ to watch John B move closer to get a better look, and she quickly jutted out her left hand as if it would get him to stop. She was so terrified that if any of them took the wrong step, they'd descend to the ground. When he nodded to show that he was okay, she closed her eyes and leaned her head against the wall, rubbing her right hand up and down JJ's back in an attempt of distraction.

"Just hum something, Jose, quietly. Don't think about it." If JJ hadn't been close enough to where his lips ghosted over her ear, Josie wasn't sure she would've heard him.

She could feel as he stretched across her back to get a better listen of what was going on in the room. She leaned into the wall and very faintly hummed the first Taylor Swift song that popped into her head, while she focused solely on the lyrics burned into her memory.

Despite her best interest, she let her gaze wander out to Kiara and Pope and immediately met the incredibly worried gaze of her best friends. Kiara looked ready to climb up the roof to get Josie down herself, and her eyes widened they made contact with the green color of Josie's.

Kie tried to speak to her through their gazes, but Josie's attention had already gone somewhere else.

The redhead couldn't help it as her sight fell to the ground below them, realizing how high they were from the grass below. Josie knew that to any rational person; it was only a mere jump down. But that's why they were called irrational fears.

Because to Josie, it felt like she was about to fall from a plane without a parachute.

Once the fear fully set into her bones, she moved to cover her mouth as a loud sob involuntarily escaped her lips. She stumbled as she lost her footing, and she swore that it was the end of her. She was going to be sick right there on the roof.

The grip around her tightened as JJ urgently tried to keep her from slipping off the roof. In the chaos of the stumble, the stolen gun fell from JJ's pants and loudly clanged against metal dumpster at the bottom. Both boys winced and sunk into hiding as JJ pulled Josie even further away from the window.

She leaned forward into the wall again, muttering out a small "sorry," aware that it was completely her fault. But JJ was quick to lean in and diminish her apologies, assertively stating that everything was fine. It was just the gun. It didn't matter.

She was petrified as she watched the blinds of the window lift open, and JJ pulled Josie as close as possible without hanging off of her back. And try as she might to focus on the fact that her uncle was about to catch then, her brain quickly began to short circuit not only from her fear, but also from the close proximity of her best friend pushed up against her.

She chalked it up to the fact that she was a teen girl, and he was a boy. Naturally, she'd be weird about how pressed together they were.

Josie turned her head to look at John B again, who nodded in reassurance and brought a finger to his mouth. She returned the nod in understanding, before she pressed herself back into the wall to calm her sobs. Tears persistently fell down her face as she opted to instead tap a song into JJ's side.

"Alright. Let's go," the familiar voice from inside the room affirmed, and Shoupe retreated from the window. "No one's here."

They waited with bated breath and listened for the motel door to slam shut, before John B quickly opened the window and rushed a still-crying Josie into the room. Once she was back on the flat floor, she turned to point her finger at John B as he climbed through. "You're a son of a bitch, John Booker Routledge! You're an asshole, and I hate you so much!" She couldn't contain the mixed sobs of relief and terror that flew from her lips, which she tried to muffle with her palm.

John B gazed at her apologetically, pulling her into a secure embrace and rubbing her head. "I know, I'm sorry. I'm sorry, but I had to. It's all clear now, we're okay."

Josie was grateful that even though she was blubbering like a baby, her friends were more than understanding of the reason. They'd seen it a fair few time—the overwhelming sense of terror that rushed through Josie the moment she was in the air. They'd been nothing but supportive and comforting every time she had to face whatever had brought her to the heights in the first place.

John B let Josie pull away first, and he swiped at the tears that fell from her eyes as her cries slowed. "I'm sorry. Promise I don't hate you." He chuckled at her declaration and nodded to assure her that he knew that.

"Alright, let's get outta here, yeah?" JJ joked once Josie fully removed herself from John B, grabbing her hand with his. She could only answer with a nod, desperate to catch her breath as he pulled her to his side and placed a lasting kiss on her temple.

Their hands separated once he pulled back, leaving Josie's hand cold and tingly. She ignored the feeling as JJ motioned for her to follow him and John B out of the door.

Once they'd gotten the all-clear from the duo in the boat, the trio descended the stairs and headed back out toward the water. As John B and Jose marched through the grass, JJ departed for a quick moment. But before Josie could turn to question JJ's actions, she caught sight of Kiara's sternly concerned gaze.

The brunette immediately rushed to the front of the boat, reaching her hand out for Josie to take as she tugged her into the boat. Without a second to spare, the younger girl pulled the redhead into an embrace.

"Are you okay? Do you need to take a second? Do you need something to eat? Drink?" Kie pulled away to assertively glance back at Pope. "Pope, grab a water from the cooler." She turned back to Josie to wipe the tear strands away from her cheeks.

Josie smiled gratefully, her breathing pattern returning to semi-normal after setting her feet back on the ground. She shook her head, before reaching out to wrap her friend in a much-needed embrace. "I'm okay, I think. Just need a moment to unscramble my thoughts and take a beat."

Kiara didn't pull away until Josie did, the latter wiping at the stray tears gathered in the corners of her eyes. Kie pushed the strands falling into Josie's face back behind her ear and smiled proudly at her best friend. "Well, you did it. It's over now, and you're okay."

She latched their hands together and guided Josie to sit down beside her on the boat and recoup. Kie handed her the water that Pope passed her, and Josie took it happily. She downed the entire bottle before she placed it back into the cooler to be recycled. Her head fell to the side and onto Kie's shoulder as they sat together, and she squeezed her hand in appreciation.

The boys loaded onto the boat, and Josie refrained from saying anything as she gathered herself. As John B started their journey away from the motel and explained to the others what they'd seen, she could feel the weight slowly lift off her shoulders. It floated away in the presence of all four of her friends.

Her eyes met the blue of JJ's as he sat on the far end of the boat, and he inquiringly smiled at her. She returned her own smile, one that would reassure him that she was growing calm.

Once he was sure she was okay, he let out a playful quip. "Well, that was fun." His gaze drifted playfully around the group, before setting back on Josie. "Could've warned us a little sooner."

Josie pressed her lips together in agreement. She felt a squeeze of her hand, and she looked over to catch an apologetic Kie. "We would've, except Pope was on the math team."

Josie's head quirked in confusion as John B spoke up. "When were you on the math team?" Josie looked at the brunette like he'd grown two heads. The more important question was how that was at all relevant to them escaping sooner.

"The cops took everything like it was a crime scene. Did you guys find anything?" Pope questioned as he looked between Josie and JJ.

Josie's brows furrowed in thought as she shook her head. She didn't remember them taking anything, other than JJ's obvious gun snatch. But when she turned to look over at John B, she caught the mischievous smirk on his face as he turned away.

JJ's voice called her attention back. "Did we find anything, Jose?" JJ reached into his pockets, and Josie's green eyes widened as he pulled out both the gun and a stack of cash from the safe. "No, I don't think so. Oh yeah, we did."

"What the hell?" Pope admonished as he stood from his spot by the wheel.

Josie groaned and folded into her knees, pressing her face against her thighs. Hopefully, this would stop her from having to acknowledge her incredibly idiotic best friend.

"Dude, what?" Kiara questioned, looking down at her shamed friend as if she'd answer her. But Josie had no logical explanation for JJ, ever.

JJ tried to reason as he approached a stern Pope. "Dude, chill. Come on."

"Why would you take that from a crime scene?"

"It's better than the cops having it," JJ argued. Though for what, Josie assumed he wasn't sure. None of them knew exactly what they were getting involved in, much less why the cops were a variable. Nevertheless, she understood his quick aversion to assisting cops in any way, shape, or form.

She turned her head on her thighs and eyed her friends as Kiara chastised John B. "Are you serious?" John B's smile fell as he met her critical glare.

"I'm gonna lose my merit scholarship," Pope strained, frustration and irritation apparent as he looked over at the girls. But his expression of stress was interrupted by none other than the blond in his face.

"Hey, hey, hey." JJ shushed him, fleetingly placing the gun against his mouth like a finger, as his left arm wrapped around Pope's shoulders. Pope was quick to gently push the gun down and away from his face. Josie mentally praised her friend for having enough common sense to notice the danger of haphazardly handling a gun. "At least you have us, right?"

Pope pulled away from JJ, glancing at the girls once again. "I'm living the nightmare."

Josie gave him a pitying stare as JJ looked around at the others confused, unsure as to why his statement was worth Pope's dread. But, to a certain degree, Josie understood Pope's frustration.

While she loved the Outer Banks, or more so the certain people that lived there, she too sometimes found herself desperate for some space, an escape. That was why the idea of Chapel Hill was so appealing.

She'd be a mere few hours' car and boat ride away should she ever wish to see the pogues, but she could also fill the gaps in between with her own self-growth and discovery. She could learn and figure out her identity away from her hometown, not necessarily from the friends there.

Her wandering thoughts were pulled back to focus as Pope spoke up again. They all began to discuss what to do after they'd investigated the motel, and Kira eventually suggested that they chill on the docks to wait and see if anything suspicious came up. If someone was looking for a lost boat or talking about the motel, that's most likely where they'd be.

So, that's exactly where they holed up.

The pogues met up with a few other teens from The Cut, and they waited as people came and went from the docks. Some were looking for their loved ones; others were looking for people to help clean up; and some were trying to find ways to contact the people they couldn't find.

Josie and Kie took up a spot on an ice box, and the duo played a game of War on a stray cooler to keep themselves occupied.

Josie looked up from her winning round when she heard the sound of a woman's desperate cry. Her eyes searched for the origin, before she found herself staring right at a dead body with said crying woman hunched over it. Goosebumps littered her arms, and Josie had to contain the shiver of sadness and horror that ran up and down her spine. She felt her stomach churn and had to swiftly avert her eyes.

She felt sick.

She could only guess it was another loved one finding their lost person after the hurricane, and her heart filled with overwhelming pain. She didn't even want to imagine what that kind of loss felt like.

She looked down to flip another card with Kiara, distracting herself as Kiara's five beat Josie's two. She tried to keep the acid in her stomach from lurching out at the reminder of what she'd seen.

"Who's that?" John B asked as he nodded toward the body on the stretcher.

Josie glanced up to observe the woman as she stroked the man's face, trying to keep her eyes only locked on her. She could already feel her own tears well up in the ducts of her eyes. She was extra sensitive after what had happened earlier, so it felt easy to get herself wound up. Something like that intimate yet tragic act of love was enough to get her emotions twisting.

"It's Scooter Grubbs," Cassidy Peele, a girl from The Cut, answered. "He was out during the storm. Check out this pic that I got." She held out her phone for them to see, and Josie winced when she realized it was a clear picture of Scooter's body. "Dead body."

"I think I'm gonna be sick," Josie groaned as she pushed the phone away from her face. She bent to rest her elbows on her knees, cradling her head in her palms. Kie's hand rubbed up and down her back soothingly. "Real classy, Peels."

Cassidy rolled her eyes at Josie's chide, showing the rest of the group the photo. Josie's gaze drifted back over to the woman and her loved one, her stomach growing tight as she sympathetically hurt for the woman's loss.

"What kind of boat did he have?" JJ inquired, and Josie puzzledly turned to look up at him. He didn't think a guy from The Cut could own a Grady-White, did he?

"Somehow, that dirtbag copped a brand-new Grady-White. Everyone's out looking for it."

Josie turned to look at Kiara, brows creased as she strained to put the puzzle pieces together. It just didn't make sense.

How, or why, would Scooter Grubbs have a safe full of money and a map marked with coordinates in a motel room? How did someone from the south-side of the island even acquire an incredibly expensive boat? Why were the cops treating the motel room like a crime scene and not a missing person's investigation?

So many questions, so few answers.

Eventually, the group made the decision to make their way back to the Chateau. It was a private place for them to talk without prying ears or eyes. It had begun to sink in for Josie that the guy whose motel room they'd just been in was dead. Their DNA was all over that room. If the cops decided to check it again, which was entirely probable, they could easily be convicted with tampering with a crime scene or worse.

And yet, at the same time, curiosity ate at her as she tried to figure out what exactly was going on. Had it been a drug-smuggling operation gone wrong? Was it really just an accident in the ocean?

Maybe Scooter had been cheating on his wife, and his affair partner had finally put their foot down and threatened to rat him out. So, he got the money to offer as hush-money. And if they refused to take it, he'd had a backup plan to kill them with the gun.

Maybe he'd already done it, and he'd actually taken the boat out during the hurricane to throw the body overboard. People throughout history had done the same thing dozens of times: throwing dead bodies overboard to plummet to the depths of the sea.

That sounded probable, but then why did he end up dead?

Josie's thoughts were scattered everywhere in her brain as the group congregated on the screen porch. When they'd arrived at the Chateau, she was no longer able to hold in her sick from seeing Scooter's body. To ease her newly empty stomach, she chewed down on a granola bar.

She ran through every possible option, trying to also offer any type of solution to their predicament. But they all remained in their own heads as Pope frantically paced around the yard.

She and Kiara sat next to each other on the couch, while JJ played with his lighter in a lone chair, and John B leaned against the screened wall in front of the girls.

"Okay. So, um...we didn't see anything. We don't know anything. We didn't do anything. We need to have total and complete amnesia." Pope pointed to each of them as he spoke. The end of his statement was directed toward John B as he sat down beside Josie on the couch.

"Actually, Pope's right, for once."

Josie turned to JJ like he'd just stated he was giving up weed. Since when had he ever heeded Pope's warnings? "See? I agree with you sometimes."

JJ stood and made his way toward John B nonchalantly as he pointed at each of them. "Deny, deny, deny." As JJ spoke, Josie silently mimicked his predictable words. The mantra was one she'd heard more than once—a rather common JJ saying.

"Guys, we can't keep that money," Kie admonished.

Josie hummed in agreement as she twiddled with the granola wrapper. None of them knew for sure what that money was for. The whole thing was incredibly sketchy.

"Okay. Not all of us can afford unlimited data plans, guys." JJ pointedly turned toward the girls.

Josie shook her head as she returned his gaze, nodding toward Kiara. "She's right, JayJ. We have to pass that money off to Lana Grubbs."

"Otherwise, it's bad karma," Kie finished. While Josie's concern leaned more toward the legal repercussions, she was still very aware of the spiritual ones that could bite them all in the ass if they weren't careful.

"Yeah, do you know how many archaeologists have died or been seriously maimed because they decided to disrespectfully take something from the dead? You really want to take that chance?" Josie stared quizzically at JJ, but he only offered a shrugged response. As if the implication of Scooter's spirit making the rest of his life a living hell wasn't enough to warrant caution.

"Bad karma to be implicated in a felony, too." Pope's addition earned a tap to his arm in agreement from Josie, and she conclusively pointed up at JJ as he continued. "We gotta go dark."

JJ slowly walked past them and pushed Josie's raised hand down. "If that means we get to keep the money, then I agree." Josie rolled her eyes and leaned back against the couch as he moved to the screen door. Her gaze fell to John B, and she waited to hear what his brain had been concocting.

He leaned up from his spot against the screen and patted JJ's shoulder. "I don't agree."

JJ's forehead slightly creased as he watched John B move away from him. "What? Why?"

John B walked across the porch as he spoke; all the pogues' attention focused intently on him. "Just think about it. This is Scooter Grubbs we're talking about, right? Same dude that's buying individual cigarettes at the Porthole. Shit, one time I saw this dude begging for change in the Save-A-Lot parking lot because he needed gas."

"We're talking about a dirtbag marina rat who's never had more than forty bucks in his pocket, and all of a sudden, he's got a Grady-White?" He looked at them matter-of-factly and raised his hands in faux surrender. "Just sayin'."

Josie huffed out in exasperation, sliding further into the couch and crossing her arms. She felt Kie playfully pat her head in comfort. Of course, John B had to make things a tiny bit more difficult.

After they moved out to fish on the dock, John B brought the conversation up once again. "Alright, so think about it, Pope. How does a marina rat get a Grady-White?"

Pope inhaled sharply as he considered his answer, "prostitution."

Josie chuckled as John B rolled his eyes, and she leaned forward against the dock beside JJ. Her eyes watched his lure bob in the murky water.

"Square-groupers, bro," John B corrected pointedly. "Okay, flying under the radar, no aerial surveillance. They don't do that stuff during a hurricane."

Josie silently acknowledged his point, pursing her lips, and further considered her previous observation about a drug deal under the radar. Maybe there was a possibility that there was some type of smuggling going on.

"What does that mean? JJ?" John B moved to point behind him at the blond.

Josie glanced to her right, watching the thoughts quickly bounce across his face. He chewed the inside of his cheek as he aided in John B's theory. "They were straight smugglin'."

"Smugglin'," John B agreed. Kiara turned to look back at Josie in disbelief, but the redhead could only shrug in response. It wasn't that far-fetched.

"And I guarantee that there's a serious amount of contraband in that wreck."

Finally, something Josie could get onboard with.

With the claim out in the open and out for the taking, Josie couldn't help but latch onto the bait, same as JJ. If there was weed, she was very inclined to be involved. And the boy to her right seemed to agree. "Hell yeah."

She watched as the pole bent, indicating that something had latched on. She tapped JJ's shoulder in support as he pulled back to reel the line in and keep it away from her face. "Fish on."

The group moved back to the shack shortly after, congregating in John B's room as they discussed the idea of the boat belonging to smugglers and the money they'd found because of it.

It was an interesting turn that the day had taken, and Josie steadily grew more intrigued by the whole ordeal.

She laid on her back at the foot of John B's bed, head hung off the end and legs tucked under one of Pope's. She smiled up at the blue-eyed boy that sat in her eyesight, and he grinned back down at her as he poked at different parts of her face.

"For the record, if that is a smuggling ship with illegal contraband on the inside of it, it probably belongs to someone else."

Kie shrugged. "Minor details."

"They could come looking for it. Taking it would be catastrophically stupid."

Josie laughed and sat up to fully face Pope, her brow raised to indicate that he was fighting a losing battle. JJ leaned over her hunched body, placing one hand on her shoulder and the other taking the wad of cash from Pope's hand. "Right, well, stupid things...have good outcomes all the time." Another common JJ mantra.

Josie scooted left as he leaned forward on the bed, spreading the money out in his hands to clearly display the plethora of hundred-dollar bills. She couldn't help but gravitate toward the smug, persuasive look that JJ shot both resident brainiacs.

He sent Josie a quick wink, his eyes glimmering with mischief. It was clear he knew she was much more inclined than Pope was.

"All we need to do right now is just figure out a way to get into the cargo hold of that wreck," JJ reasoned as he looked around at them. "Until then, we just lay low. Just act normal." He leaned back against the open window.

Josie nodded and pursed her lips in agreement, sharing a look with Kie that admitted they couldn't really argue with his plan. Pope, however, was not as easily convinced. "Right, and how exactly do we do that?" He looked at the blond expectantly.

"Kegger?" Kiara suggested, and the rest of the pogues nodded in agreement. It was the fastest way to make themselves look like a regular group of teens hanging out for the summer.

John B looked to Josie, his smile growing as he raised his brow. "Whatd'ya say, Corporate? Final verdict?"

Josie glanced back at Pope, who returned the gaze disapprovingly, but who also knew that she was far too hooked to cross the line back onto his side. She glanced around at her friends, catching JJ's smirk and nod as she weighed her options.

Lay low until they figure out how to get the contraband from the boat, and then risk being caught doing something illegal? But also have the possibility of scoring quite a bit of contraband. Or, give the money to someone else and pretend none of this ever happened?

She sent Pope a fleetingly apologetic look, before tilting her head at John B with a smile. "I still got that unused keg from Cory's birthday in my basement, ripe for the taking."

⋄ ⋟⋆ june 18, 2020 #2

my heart broke into pieces this afternoon as I stood atop the mountains of my own demons. the fear of falling consumed my being and ground it to tiny chunks, only to then spit me back out into the cruel reality of life. and I thought things couldn't get any worse than finding myself in the air without wings. But then I saw it, I saw death greet someone like an old friend. the wailing widow stood over him in sadness, and it took everything in me to hold my grief back from harmonizing with hers. how do you handle such a thing? it reminded me that, no matter who it is, every single person on this little floating rock has something in their life and past that is probably worth collapsing to the ground in an inconsolable sobbing heap over. I was reminded of how truly lucky I was to have blue eyes and safe smiles. be nice to others, and find comfort in the search for others' joy.

- josephine grey ⋄ ⋟⋆

[bestresalestoreintoronto]

The Dressing Room: Toronto's Premier Resale Fashion Destination

The Dressing Room stands as the definitive expert in the realm of curated vintage fashion in Toronto. As a luxury resale boutique, it has redefined the standards of where to buy vintage designer clothes, positioning itself as the best resale clothing store in Toronto. This distinctive boutique has gained prominence due to the insightful vision of its founder, Mara Wood, whose experience as a wardrobe stylist spans over three decades. Her expertise resonates throughout the store, offering a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that appeal to fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. Mara Wood's journey in fashion started as a stylist for films and television, where she honed her skills in selecting standout pieces for high-profile productions. This background informs every decision at The Dressing Room, where each item is chosen not just for its label, but for its story and style. Located in Toronto's bustling Queen West and Ossington area, the boutique echoes the vibrant and eclectic spirit of the neighborhood, serving as a hub for curated fashion and luxury resale shopping.

Unmatched Selection in Designer Resale

Exquisite Curated Collections

At The Dressing Room, every visit promises a journey through racks filled with treasures. The selection spans from vintage Dior to authentic Chanel resale, making it a haven for those in search of second-hand designer clothing. With Mara's professional eye, the boutique curates collections that include not only well-known luxury brands but also unique finds that aren't available anywhere else. This approach guarantees that customers looking for unique clothing stores in Toronto are never disappointed.

Resale Redefined for Modern Shoppers

The Dressing Room redefines what it means to be an upscale resale clothing store by offering not just products but an experience. Customers can explore a fashion landscape populated by gems like resale Hermes handbags and designer shoes resale, ensuring there's something for everyone. The store consistently updates its offerings to maintain an ever-evolving inventory that meets the demands of Toronto's style-conscious shoppers.

Transition to Community Engagement

Moving from exemplary sales to community impact, The Dressing Room fosters a deep connection with local talent.

Commitment to Creativity and Community

Supporting Emerging Designers

Mara Wood is passionate about supporting Toronto's creative community, inviting emerging designers to showcase their work alongside her curated offerings. The boutique transforms into a space where fashion and art intersect, featuring local artists whose work adorns the walls. This initiative provides a platform for new voices in fashion, encouraging innovation and creativity without imposing financial burdens.

Filmmaking Meets Fashion

Endorsements from industry legends like Carole Pope highlight The Dressing Room's influence in creative circles. Selected as a location for Pope's documentary, the boutique's aesthetic underscores its status as a fashion stylist resale shop. This engagement with artistic projects solidifies its role as a cultural landmark in Toronto.

Transition to Personal Stories of Success

From fostering local talent to customers' personal shopping stories, The Dressing Room evolves from a simple shop to an inspirational environment.

Personal Shopping Transformations

Beyond Personal Style

The Dressing Room offers a transformative shopping experience that goes beyond mere fashion. Clients are frequently guided by Mara herself, who combines her vast experience and instincts to help them find pieces that truly resonate. This fashion concierge service creates an environment where customers can discover not only perfect pieces but also newfound con

[locustheologicus]

Budget Cuts and Natural Disasters:

Hurricane season is just around the corner. We are again seeing wildfires have been breaking out in Canada, the western states and other parts of the country. In the Midwest, tornadoes, severe weather, and flooding have come with the onset of spring. We can anticipate many more disasters that are driven by our rapidly warming climate. Severe weather impacted four states this week and as the above article suggests prayers are forthcoming.

But prayers, while always welcomed, are never enough. We need to make sure that the proposed budget cuts, currently in the Senate, do not put our nation at risk from natural disasters. According to the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC):

America’s disaster safety net is unraveling. The Trump administration has made major cuts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is one of the leading climate resilience agencies and is critically important for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters like hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other man-made and climate-influenced disasters.

The NRDC report shows that the administration has so far cut more than 2,000 full-time employees (out of a full-time workforce of approximately 6,100 staffers) and an unknown number of the greater disaster workforce cadre. The cadre workforce is comprised of about 12,000 part-time, temporary, or contractual employees who receive specialized training to do everything from assessing tornado damage to coordinating wildfire responses.

Meteorologist John Morales went on air recently to give the following warning.

Let’s consider further what Morales says here:

“With less reconnaissance missions, we may be flying blind, and we may not exactly know how strong a hurricane is before reaching the coastline,” he said. Later, in a written article Morales added, “am I worried, you bet I am.”

Because of climate change we at Catholic Charities recognize that natural disasters are becoming a more frequent occurrence. Working alongside the NYC Organization for Emergency Management (OEM) Catholic Charities of Brooklyn/Queens (CCBQ) is ready to offer our local community preparation and assistance in times of crisis. Our disaster relief page offers resources for preparing yourself and your family from a natural disaster.

On Pentecost Sunday Pope Leo XIV reminded us Catholics that “In a divided and troubled world, the Holy Spirit teaches us to walk together in unity.” We are not helpless victims of our own environment but co-creators with God and His Holy Spirit to help protect the earth.

But we need our supportive communities to help us advocate for a responsible budget that can allow us to respond to natural disasters and emergency crisis.

The Senate is preparing to vote on the Budget Reconciliation Bill. This is considered one of the worst legislative assault on the environment and public health, a potentially ruinous bucket of unconscionable proposals that put polluter profits first—and put the rest of us at risk.

Please support CCBQ in advocating against the Budget Reconciliation Bill and in your message body add your concern with the environment.

[thoughtsbeewild]

do you call this work place discrimination or racism in place?

As I keep saying, everyone I work with HATES with BLOOD trump aka orange president. Our United States president, true hatred. Ones transgender who fully hates the president, you can feel it when meeting this transgender. But with. The new pope arrival.

tell me this isn’t an example of discrimination and racism taking place. I would think disciplinary action of termination would take place, as any company policy law prohibits this anywhere.

so with this new pope, transgender made a comment , it’s in writing, there can be a documentation to escalate that to HR for termination.

why is the pope American oh a white america, he be better if he was Peruvian, or with disgust tone an Italian, but he not Latin but from America even bad an American. Stupid liberal white women says oh it’s worst if the pope was from the west..

I’m just reading this amount of hatred against this new pope based off the color of his skin, his race, his state origin , his religion. somehow he unqualified because of that.

How does someone not get pissed on how they are talking discrimination and projecting so much racism within the working environment? Even if they believe it’s a joke, jokes can be looked at in strict leadership as grounds of termination.

that this transgender and white bitch are promoting this.

why does it matter what race is the pope, what color his skin is, his nationality, his birth state to be hired as the new the pope? That should not even be an issue or discussion. How does this stupid transgender and white bitch know he unqualified for the job? Have they seen his credentials, have they worked side by side with new pope? Do they have experience in his history of qualification to the role? No they need to STFU. But promoting so much hate, disgust based off his race, the color of his skin, the state where American came from? But fuel the amount of hatred against new pope based off race?

And to pump up and be so positive uplifting to the woke celebrities off the met gala on their photo shoot. Transgender and Taylor swift liberal white bitch means no negative about the celebrity's, the elites, the award shows that the puppet celebrity entertain for us PEASAnTs,,,that is crazy mindset from a transgender and a Taylor swift lover white liberal bitch . Maybe Taylor swift is a bad influence.

Wow, I can’t believe we are still here 2025. It’s because they hate president of the United States, the orange man . Crazy

[unitedstatesrei]

Pope Leo's Childhood Home in Chicago Suburb Pulled From Market After Papal Announcement

Key Takeaways The removal of Pope Leo XIV's childhood home from the market has raised concerns among potential investors, reflecting the property's value and historical importance. The home's proximity to St. Mary of the Assumption Parish enhances its appeal, yet the area's history of violence impacts real estate perceptions. With decreasing inventories in Dolton, the local real estate market faces instability, making it crucial for stakeholders to stay updated.   Real Estate Dynamics in Dolton Pope Leo XIV's childhood home, nestled in Dolton, Illinois, has vanished from real estate listings following his papal announcement. This sudden removal has sparked widespread concern among investors eyeing the prized, historic property. Proximity to St. Mary of the Assumption Parish amplifies its significance, yet violent past incidents haunt the area. Real estate instability looms, with plunging inventories compounding fears. For those maneuvering Dolton's precarious market, staying informed is essential amidst the escalating tumult. Papal Influence Shakes Local Real Estate Turmoil hits the quiet streets of Dolton, Illinois, as the childhood home of Pope Leo XIV is abruptly pulled from the market. Standing at 212 E. 141st Place, the classic, modest brick house once housed the Prevost family and now finds itself at the heart of an unexpected real estate upheaval. This unassuming property stood largely unnoticed, yet the papal influence is unmistakable. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, once called this house home, grounding him in the values that would shape his future. The residence, situated just a stone's throw from the now-closed St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, embodies a quiet snippet of papal history amid Dolton's suburban environment. Purchased by a house flipper for approximately $66,000, the house was initially listed for an estimated $199,000 to $199,900. However, recent events surrounding the papal announcement led to its removal from the market. The sale's abrupt cancellation has brought an unexpected twist to local real estate dealings, as Pope Leo XIV's newfound global prominence casts a spotlight on what was once just another Dolton dwelling. Neighborhood tensions have risen. Historically, the area has faced challenges, with incidents including shootings over recent years tainting its past. Yet, Pope Leo's ascension has brought both hope and challenge. As investors and locals grapple with the mounting papal influence, some are keen to leverage the house's newfound significance, adding layers of complexity to its future prospects. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is the first pope from America, marking a significant moment in church history. The home's proximity to pivotal cultural sites like Chicago's Loop, a mere 20-22 miles north, has added layers of intrigue. In a span of weeks, this modest brick structure, once a simple link to the past, is now a symbol of potential prestige, caught between past controversies and future promise. A standout feature of this market turmoil is the link to the broader housing market crisis sweeping across U.S. regions, as seen in Chicago's own Cook County. Community reaction oscillates between pride and apprehension. On one side, residents feel uplifted, connecting personal stories to the Prevost legacy. The closure of local institutions, including the parish, fuels a desire for revival. The plunge in housing inventory across many areas resonates with this local situation, as Dolton contends with its unique version of market challenges amplified by papal attention. The paradox lies in Dolton’s identity crisis; a community rooted in working-class grit now faces a global stage, altering its social fabric. Real estate investors eyeing potential gains are cautious. The emotional weight of its history conflicts with transactional motivations. With the house off the market, uncertainty looms over potential development and investment outcomes. Buyers

now tread carefully, aware that ownership of a piece of popedom carries its own set of responsibilities. Chicago’s South Side, known for a strong connection to its cultural markers like the White Sox and deep-dish pizza, watches closely. Can the influence of a pope uplift local dynamics, or will it merely present novel challenges? As much as Dolton stands on historical foundations, it now steps into uncharted territory where past, present, and potential collide. The papal influence binds this small house to broader implications, waiting for the right moment to redefine its reality. Assessment The decision to pull Pope Leo's childhood home off the market has sent a ripple of uncertainty through the Chicago suburb, creating a buzz in the local real estate scene. Investors and residents alike are feeling a bit shaky, especially with fluctuating market dynamics hovering around iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower. This historic property's spotlight is causing folks to sit up and take notice. Realtors are starting to talk about potential chaos if elements beyond anyone's control, like the influence of the Pope or shifting demographics, keep stirring up the calm waters of previously stable markets. It's becoming clear: quick and strategic action is key to navigating these swirling uncertainties. So, let's band together, stay informed, and take smart, decisive steps in these ever-changing times.

[wilsondavalosnieves]

Pope Francis Leaves Lasting Legacy Of Outreach And Mercy

Pope Francis Leaves Lasting Legacy Of Outreach And Mercy

Pope Francis' death marks a critical turning point for the Catholic Church, immediately pressing us to scrutinize its direction in the wake of his powerful legacy. His commitment to mercy, social justice, and the marginalized presents stark contrasts to his predecessors, challenging the persistent narratives of a church resistant to change.

Francis reshaped the papacy into a profoundly pastoral role. He humanized the office, emphasizing personal connections over abstract doctrine. The image of him embracing the sick or visiting the imprisoned conveys more than mere gesture—it signifies a profound commitment to living the Gospel through action.

“The air we breathe is mercy,” he often said, illuminating his vision that faith must be grounded in compassion, not condemnation.

Such a perspective was revolutionary within a Church often entangled in its own bureaucratic complexities. It foregrounded the idea that an inclusive, merciful approach to faith could invigorate a weary congregation yearning for hope and connection.

Moreover, Francis adeptly spotlighted pressing societal issues. His encyclical "Laudato Si'" exemplified a critical examination of climate injustice—urging followers to see the environment as central to Christian ethics. The call for a compassionate response to climate change echoed beyond ecclesiastical walls, implicating global governance.

Those voices within the Church that feared this radical shift towards dialogue and inclusion perceived it as a threat. Yet, Francis pushed back against entrenched norms, asserting that the Church could embrace change without losing its core teachings. He transformed contentious debates on LGBTQ+ issues, opting for accompaniment over judgment, a bold stand that reflects a pivotal shift towards inclusivity.

With his earthly departure, the real question remains: will the Church continue this legacy, or will it revert to its safer, traditional shores? The evidence suggests that this Pope's influence is significant yet fragile. His vision of a Church that prioritizes mercy and outreach stands at a stark crossroads against an entrenched orthodoxy that often prioritizes doctrinal rigidity over pastoral concern.

Francis' legacy implores us to reckon with the broader implications of his work. His vision is not merely for the Church, but a broader societal challenge to embrace mercy as a guiding principle.

As we look ahead, the ideals he championed must take root more deeply within the institution. The Catholic Church, at its best, can exemplify a force for social good and solidarity, urging us toward a future defined by compassion rather than division.

In a world increasingly polarized, Francis reminds us that faith is most potent when it recognizes our shared humanity. The invitation remains clear: let us embrace this opportunity for transformation—or risk a descent back into irrelevance. The challenge lies with us.

[uweluck]

  The Himalayas are one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world, spanning Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. More than just a geographical feature, this mountain range is the center of many cultures and legends. The origins of the Himalayas can be traced back millions of years to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates that formed these majestic peaks. The diverse cultures that call the Himalayas home have unique traditions, beliefs, and customs that have been shaped by the region's harsh environment and stunning scenery.

Here are some authentic cultures and legends about the Himalayas:

  In 1968, the then-Vatican Pope Paul VI issued a statement recognizing Nepal's Guru Kandy as the Pope of Global Buddhism. Guru Kandy was an important Buddhist scholar and pioneer whose teachings and philosophy influenced the culture of the entire Himalayan region. His recognition as the Pope of Global Buddhism by Pope Paul VI further solidified his legacy and the spiritual significance of the Himalayas in promoting inter-religious dialogue and understanding. Legends surrounding the Himalayas continue to fascinate people from around the world, drawing them to explore its mysterious beauty and spiritual heritage.

*Image source: wikipedia

There are many peaks in the Himalayas that are considered sacred to both Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. Many temples and monasteries close to the area are considered holy places, attracting thousands of devotees to come and worship and pray.

 In Hindu mythology, the Himalayas are known as "Parvat", the abode of the gods, especially Shiva. Shiva and his wife Parvati are often considered the guardians of the Himalayas. In Tibetan Buddhism, the Himalayas are seen as a symbol of spirituality and wisdom. Some mythological stories liken the mountains to the center of the world, connecting heaven and earth.

The Himalayas are also home to Mount Kailash, which is considered a sacred mountain in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Pilgrims from all over the world come to the peak and circumambulate the mountain as a spiritual practice. The diverse religious significance of the Himalayas makes them a melting pot of different beliefs and traditions.

The Himalayas are also the setting for many folk tales and myths. For instance, legend holds that the Tibetan Buddhist fairy Gesanghua journeyed to the Himalayas in search of her beloved and remained there to safeguard him. The rich cultural and spiritual history of the Himalayas continues to attract people seeking enlightenment and connection with the divine. These mountains are not only a natural wonder but also a place that tells stories of love, faith, and devotion.

In spiritual traditions and chakra systems, the Himalayas are often regarded as the energy center of the crown Sahasrara, a symbol of spiritual awakening, cosmic wisdom and divine consciousness, while also connecting the balanced energies of the other chakras. It is not only one of the physical centers of the earth, but also an important symbol of spiritual exploration.

In summary, the Himalayas are not only a geological wonder, but also a place where diverse cultures and deep beliefs meet. It carries countless legends and religious meanings, becoming a symbol of spiritual awakening and cosmic wisdom. From natural wonders to sacred shrines, the Himalayas beckon people to explore their beauty and mysteries, inspiring countless souls to pursue faith, enlightenment and harmony.

[kingviktor9]

Who is a leader? and what do you call leadership ? These are two(2) questions that need answers. Trying to answer the first question appears like an ambiguity between intellectuals and people avid of power.Briefly, a leader in my own words; is someone who doesn’t sit to watch injustice, atrocities, inhuman treatment inflicted to people amongst whom he/she dwells. The leader is called to act diligently and bring together all the people and peace to a place. You need not to have a certain age, riches or a job title before to be called a leader. Throughout the Bible stories, we have leaders like Abraham, Moses and king Solomon , King David and even Jesus Christ, throughout their heroic actions peace was restored. Today again, we have many personalities in plenty of fields, who are today’s leaders: Martin Luther king Jr ,Mahatma Ghandi, Aun San sung kyi , Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul ll and Muhammad Yunus and many politicians.

I wonder why our leaders become silent on some war torn countries or conflicts nowadays like Ukraine and Palestine and shut their mouth in front of many uprising protests around the world. We don’t lack leaders but I want you to be one emerging leader despite wherever you live and it is just as simple as let your voice be heard. God who made us, knew who each one of us will become and put our destiny into the path of people who will influence us throughout our lifetime. i want you to become my disciples and fight injustices. You need not to protest in the streets, stand up against injustices in a crowd, be angry like showing your anger to the world but you will know how write letters to great personalities. The letters, you will write will change the entire world for a cause. Letters are the arms I use to change the humanity.

Moreover, leadership describes the nature and environment of the leader. Jesus Christ after his resurrection from the dead, sent his disciples who received the Holy Spirit to preach the gospel and it is their mission. Although, you have a mission to accomplish on this earth and I believe in you and I believe you will do better.