#and the fact that it's lifelong. and the teasing. and the fact that the growth is in the allowance of imperfections

[youandthemountains]

it probably is insane how much I wish I could express the thing about spones. the vibes about spones. Like there's the joking fun fandom vibes and I love them, I love to play with them, of course of course. but the THING. the CORE to me. i wish i could capture it and share it.

[hellobloger0000]

Baby Boy Names: Choosing the Perfect Name for a Bright Future

Choosing baby boy names is one of the most heartfelt decisions for any parent. A name is more than a simple label — it is the beginning of a child’s identity, often echoing cultural heritage, family history, and future aspirations. With countless naming options available today, parents are increasingly focusing on finding names that blend tradition with modern appeal.

A Name Shapes Identity and First Impressions

Research in developmental psychology has shown that names can subtly influence how a person is perceived in professional and social settings. This is why more parents are taking the time to research baby boy names that carry both cultural significance and universal appeal. A well-chosen name becomes a lifelong asset.

Unique Fact: Names Can Influence Academic Perceptions

Studies have revealed that teachers and peers sometimes form early assumptions based on a student’s name — from perceived intelligence to behavior expectations. Names that are familiar, easy to pronounce, or culturally respected tend to receive more positive first impressions in educational environments. Choosing wisely can create subtle advantages from childhood.

Trending Categories of Baby Boy Names

While the perfect name is always personal, here are some of the most searched and loved categories of baby boy names in 2025:

Modern baby boy names

Traditional baby boy names

Short and cute boy names

International baby boy names

Spiritual and religious names for boys

Royal and historical baby names

Each category offers its own flavor, and exploring them can help narrow down options based on meaning, sound, and uniqueness.

Modern vs. Traditional: Striking the Right Balance

Modern parents often struggle between preserving heritage and adopting contemporary styles. Traditional baby boy names like Arjun, Isaac, or Joseph carry strong roots and rich meanings. On the other hand, newer names like Zian, Kyro, or Eshan reflect individuality and modern taste.

A growing trend is the fusion of both — names that are culturally meaningful but adapted for modern usage. For example, names like Riaan (meaning little king) or Aariz (meaning respectable man) are gaining traction globally.

How to Choose the Right Baby Boy Name

Here are a few essential tips to guide your name selection journey:

1. Prioritize Meaning

A powerful name meaning adds depth. Whether you want a name that signifies strength, peace, wisdom, or joy, understanding the etymology helps you align the name with your aspirations for your child.

2. Consider Global Compatibility

Choose baby boy names that are easy to pronounce across different cultures, especially in today’s global society. Names like Leo, Aryan, Eli, and Ayaan work well in various countries and languages.

3. Think About Longevity

While it’s tempting to follow trends, ask yourself if the name will still suit your child at age 30 or 50. Timeless names tend to hold their charm across generations.

4. Test for Nicknames

Say the name out loud and consider natural nicknames. Make sure they are pleasant and won’t lead to teasing or confusion in social settings.

5. Initials and Combinations

Write down the initials formed with the full name. Avoid names that accidentally form negative or humorous abbreviations.

10 Beautiful Baby Boy Names Gaining Popularity

Here’s a curated list of baby boy names that combine uniqueness, style, and meaningful backgrounds:

Vihaan – Sanskrit for dawn or new beginning

Zavian – Arabic for radiant or bright

Elian – Spanish origin, meaning "light"

Arham – One who is merciful

Nivan – Holy or pure

Zayden – Growth and progress

Omran – Prosperity or long life

Tariq – Morning star or pathfinder

Kiaan – Grace of God

Yasir – Wealthy and prosperous

These names strike a great balance between uniqueness and familiarity, suitable for modern families looking for something meaningful yet trendy.

Baby Boy Names and Cultural Significance

Many families still prefer to choose names that reflect their cultural and religious values. For example:

In Hindu culture, names are often chosen based on astrological charts or derived from Sanskrit.

In Christian communities, biblical names like Elijah, Jacob, and Noah remain evergreen.

In Islamic naming traditions, names such as Hasan, Ibrahim, or Zayd are valued for their spiritual significance.

Such baby boy names not only honor heritage but also provide children with a strong sense of belonging and identity.

The Impact of Social Media and Global Trends

In the digital age, even baby naming is influenced by pop culture, celebrity babies, and influencers. Short, impactful names that are easy to spell and look good on social media profiles are becoming favorites. Many parents now look for domain availability and Instagram handle possibilities before finalizing a name.

This has led to an increase in unique and brandable baby boy names that still retain meaningful origins. Names like Jace, Ronin, Kairo, and Ezra are popular among millennial and Gen Z parents.

Final Thoughts on Selecting Baby Boy Names

The journey of naming a baby boy is a beautiful part of parenthood. It is your child’s first gift — something that will stay with them for life. The right name can empower, inspire, and uplift.

As trends evolve, remember that the most important factor is how the name resonates with your heart and vision for your child’s future. Whether you lean toward cultural classics or modern marvels, there’s a perfect name out there waiting for you to discover it.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

We spend a lot of time teaching kids how to stand up to bullies—but what if we also taught them how to recognize when they’re the one crossing the line? That’s the powerful question behind a viral TikTok by creator and editor Rachel (@rachel.the.editor), who challenges the typical anti-bullying narrative many of us grew up with. In the clip, which has struck a chord with parents and educators alike, Rachel points out that most anti-bullying lessons focus on helping kids identify and protect themselves from an anonymous “evil bully.” But rarely do we help kids see when they might be engaging in bullying behavior—often without even realizing it. “A lot of kids aren’t inherently evil; they just don’t realize…they don’t have the emotional maturity to know the effect that they’re having on other kids,” she says in the video. Scroll through the comments, and it’s clear this message hit home.  This TikTok isn’t just going viral with 472K views (and counting)—it’s sparking an important shift in how we approach kindness, empathy, and emotional growth in childhood. Why it’s time to rethink our anti-bullying approach Traditional anti-bullying education often paints a clear picture: there’s a victim, and then there’s a villain. But real-life social dynamics, especially among young kids, are rarely that simple. In fact, many children who engage in hurtful behavior don’t see themselves as “the bully” at all—they might think they’re just being funny, teasing like everyone else, or even being “honest.” The intent might not be cruel, but the impact can still be harmful. This is where the usual “stranger danger” version of bullying prevention falls short. It focuses on helping kids recognize when someone else is treating them unfairly, without teaching them how to recognize when they might be doing the same to others. Developmentally, this makes sense. Kids are still learning the emotional tools they need—like empathy, perspective-taking, and self-regulation. They don’t always understand the ripple effect of their words or actions, especially in social groups where teasing can be seen as playful or “cool.” Research published in the Archives of Psychiatric Nursing highlights the importance of emotional regulation in early childhood. The study found that both parent and teacher reports of children’s emotional regulation behaviors were linked to key school adjustment outcomes, including social skills, academic performance, and achievement. This underscores the role of emotional awareness and regulation in helping children adapt successfully to school environments. That’s why shifting the conversation matters. By helping kids build emotional awareness early on, we’re not just preventing bullying—we’re giving them the lifelong skills to navigate relationships with kindness and accountability. Related: Why this dad refused to punish his son for bullying—and what he did instead What the comments are saying: “They don’t even realize they’re being a bully” The viral TikTok didn’t just start a conversation—it cracked something wide open. In the comments section, parents, educators, and former “weird kids” shared their own lightbulb moments, offering insight into why so many kids fail to recognize when they might be the problem. Emma: “kids aren’t going to come home from school like “mom I’m bullying someone”. they’re going to say “there’s this weird kid at school”. parents never think their kid is the problem…” Rebecca Hall: “As school staff I have had to tell kids “what you are doing is bullying” or “you are acting like a bully right now” and it’s like the thought has never occurred to them that they could be a bully.” LizardbethArt: “YES cuz usually the “bully” in these existing stories IS so cartoonishly evil that real life bullies probably go “obviously that’s not me, I’m just messing around and having fun 😉“ they’ve no clue” coraline coraline: “The best take. We teach that people ARE bullies, so no one sees themself as the bully. We should teach them that we can all ACT like bullies” Hummingbird: “and using the label “bully” for any time someone is mean makes no kid want to recognize their own behavior as wrong because they want to act like they could never be the bully” Dan Tat: “also bullies learn from somewhere. a lot of times kids’ most prominent bullies are their parents/adults in their lives and we don’t address that enough” These raw, honest reactions reflect a powerful truth: we need to change how we talk to kids about bullying. It’s not about villainizing—it’s about building awareness, empathy, and emotional accountability from the inside out. Related: Mom says her tween daughter is bullying other kids over their clothes—so she’s asking for advice How to teach kids to recognize when they’re crossing the line Instead of labeling a child as “a bully,” we can guide them toward understanding the impact of their behavior. It’s not about shame—it’s about emotional growth. Here are five ways to help your child become more self-aware, empathetic, and socially responsible: 1. Teach impact over intent Children often defend their actions with “I was just joking” or “I didn’t mean it.” Help them understand that even if something wasn’t meant to be hurtful, it still can be. Emphasize that how the other person feels matters—and that kindness means paying attention to those feelings. 2. Use real-life examples Roleplay common social situations or talk through moments from books, shows, or your child’s day. Ask questions like, “How do you think the other person felt?” or “What would you want someone to say to you in that situation?” These conversations help build empathy in a concrete way. 3. Model accountability Your child learns more from what you do than what you say. When you make a mistake—interrupting, snapping, or forgetting something important—own it. Try saying, “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings, but I see that I did. I’m sorry.” Modeling this shows kids that accountability is not weakness—it’s strength. 4. Focus on behavior, not identity Avoid calling your child “a bully.” Instead, focus on specific actions: “That wasn’t a kind thing to say,” or “Pushing someone to get ahead in line isn’t respectful.” When kids don’t feel shamed or labeled, they’re more open to learning and change. 5. Normalize feedback Create an environment where kids feel safe giving and receiving gentle feedback. Encourage siblings or friends to say things like “That hurt my feelings” or “Please don’t do that.” Then, help your child practice responding with empathy: “I didn’t know that upset you. I won’t do it again.” Related: TikTok’s popular ‘Midwestern Mama’ has an important message about bullying tween girls The bottom line The truth is, kids are still figuring it all out—how to navigate friendships, express their feelings, and understand how their actions affect others. They’re bound to make mistakes along the way. But those moments aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities for growth. When we shift our focus from punishing “bad behavior” to teaching emotional awareness, we help our kids build the foundation for healthier relationships—not just in childhood, but throughout their lives. It’s not about raising kids who are never unkind. It’s about raising kids who are willing to pause, reflect, and try again. So the next time your child is on the giving end of a hurtful interaction, remember: it’s not a reflection of who they are—it’s a moment to guide them toward who they’re becoming. Because kindness isn’t just taught through rules. It’s learned through reflection, accountability, and the daily practice of doing better. Source link

[norajworld]

We spend a lot of time teaching kids how to stand up to bullies—but what if we also taught them how to recognize when they’re the one crossing the line? That’s the powerful question behind a viral TikTok by creator and editor Rachel (@rachel.the.editor), who challenges the typical anti-bullying narrative many of us grew up with. In the clip, which has struck a chord with parents and educators alike, Rachel points out that most anti-bullying lessons focus on helping kids identify and protect themselves from an anonymous “evil bully.” But rarely do we help kids see when they might be engaging in bullying behavior—often without even realizing it. “A lot of kids aren’t inherently evil; they just don’t realize…they don’t have the emotional maturity to know the effect that they’re having on other kids,” she says in the video. Scroll through the comments, and it’s clear this message hit home.  This TikTok isn’t just going viral with 472K views (and counting)—it’s sparking an important shift in how we approach kindness, empathy, and emotional growth in childhood. Why it’s time to rethink our anti-bullying approach Traditional anti-bullying education often paints a clear picture: there’s a victim, and then there’s a villain. But real-life social dynamics, especially among young kids, are rarely that simple. In fact, many children who engage in hurtful behavior don’t see themselves as “the bully” at all—they might think they’re just being funny, teasing like everyone else, or even being “honest.” The intent might not be cruel, but the impact can still be harmful. This is where the usual “stranger danger” version of bullying prevention falls short. It focuses on helping kids recognize when someone else is treating them unfairly, without teaching them how to recognize when they might be doing the same to others. Developmentally, this makes sense. Kids are still learning the emotional tools they need—like empathy, perspective-taking, and self-regulation. They don’t always understand the ripple effect of their words or actions, especially in social groups where teasing can be seen as playful or “cool.” Research published in the Archives of Psychiatric Nursing highlights the importance of emotional regulation in early childhood. The study found that both parent and teacher reports of children’s emotional regulation behaviors were linked to key school adjustment outcomes, including social skills, academic performance, and achievement. This underscores the role of emotional awareness and regulation in helping children adapt successfully to school environments. That’s why shifting the conversation matters. By helping kids build emotional awareness early on, we’re not just preventing bullying—we’re giving them the lifelong skills to navigate relationships with kindness and accountability. Related: Why this dad refused to punish his son for bullying—and what he did instead What the comments are saying: “They don’t even realize they’re being a bully” The viral TikTok didn’t just start a conversation—it cracked something wide open. In the comments section, parents, educators, and former “weird kids” shared their own lightbulb moments, offering insight into why so many kids fail to recognize when they might be the problem. Emma: “kids aren’t going to come home from school like “mom I’m bullying someone”. they’re going to say “there’s this weird kid at school”. parents never think their kid is the problem…” Rebecca Hall: “As school staff I have had to tell kids “what you are doing is bullying” or “you are acting like a bully right now” and it’s like the thought has never occurred to them that they could be a bully.” LizardbethArt: “YES cuz usually the “bully” in these existing stories IS so cartoonishly evil that real life bullies probably go “obviously that’s not me, I’m just messing around and having fun 😉“ they’ve no clue” coraline coraline: “The best take. We teach that people ARE bullies, so no one sees themself as the bully. We should teach them that we can all ACT like bullies” Hummingbird: “and using the label “bully” for any time someone is mean makes no kid want to recognize their own behavior as wrong because they want to act like they could never be the bully” Dan Tat: “also bullies learn from somewhere. a lot of times kids’ most prominent bullies are their parents/adults in their lives and we don’t address that enough” These raw, honest reactions reflect a powerful truth: we need to change how we talk to kids about bullying. It’s not about villainizing—it’s about building awareness, empathy, and emotional accountability from the inside out. Related: Mom says her tween daughter is bullying other kids over their clothes—so she’s asking for advice How to teach kids to recognize when they’re crossing the line Instead of labeling a child as “a bully,” we can guide them toward understanding the impact of their behavior. It’s not about shame—it’s about emotional growth. Here are five ways to help your child become more self-aware, empathetic, and socially responsible: 1. Teach impact over intent Children often defend their actions with “I was just joking” or “I didn’t mean it.” Help them understand that even if something wasn’t meant to be hurtful, it still can be. Emphasize that how the other person feels matters—and that kindness means paying attention to those feelings. 2. Use real-life examples Roleplay common social situations or talk through moments from books, shows, or your child’s day. Ask questions like, “How do you think the other person felt?” or “What would you want someone to say to you in that situation?” These conversations help build empathy in a concrete way. 3. Model accountability Your child learns more from what you do than what you say. When you make a mistake—interrupting, snapping, or forgetting something important—own it. Try saying, “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings, but I see that I did. I’m sorry.” Modeling this shows kids that accountability is not weakness—it’s strength. 4. Focus on behavior, not identity Avoid calling your child “a bully.” Instead, focus on specific actions: “That wasn’t a kind thing to say,” or “Pushing someone to get ahead in line isn’t respectful.” When kids don’t feel shamed or labeled, they’re more open to learning and change. 5. Normalize feedback Create an environment where kids feel safe giving and receiving gentle feedback. Encourage siblings or friends to say things like “That hurt my feelings” or “Please don’t do that.” Then, help your child practice responding with empathy: “I didn’t know that upset you. I won’t do it again.” Related: TikTok’s popular ‘Midwestern Mama’ has an important message about bullying tween girls The bottom line The truth is, kids are still figuring it all out—how to navigate friendships, express their feelings, and understand how their actions affect others. They’re bound to make mistakes along the way. But those moments aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities for growth. When we shift our focus from punishing “bad behavior” to teaching emotional awareness, we help our kids build the foundation for healthier relationships—not just in childhood, but throughout their lives. It’s not about raising kids who are never unkind. It’s about raising kids who are willing to pause, reflect, and try again. So the next time your child is on the giving end of a hurtful interaction, remember: it’s not a reflection of who they are—it’s a moment to guide them toward who they’re becoming. Because kindness isn’t just taught through rules. It’s learned through reflection, accountability, and the daily practice of doing better. Source link

[chilimili212]

We spend a lot of time teaching kids how to stand up to bullies—but what if we also taught them how to recognize when they’re the one crossing the line? That’s the powerful question behind a viral TikTok by creator and editor Rachel (@rachel.the.editor), who challenges the typical anti-bullying narrative many of us grew up with. In the clip, which has struck a chord with parents and educators alike, Rachel points out that most anti-bullying lessons focus on helping kids identify and protect themselves from an anonymous “evil bully.” But rarely do we help kids see when they might be engaging in bullying behavior—often without even realizing it. “A lot of kids aren’t inherently evil; they just don’t realize…they don’t have the emotional maturity to know the effect that they’re having on other kids,” she says in the video. Scroll through the comments, and it’s clear this message hit home.  This TikTok isn’t just going viral with 472K views (and counting)—it’s sparking an important shift in how we approach kindness, empathy, and emotional growth in childhood. Why it’s time to rethink our anti-bullying approach Traditional anti-bullying education often paints a clear picture: there’s a victim, and then there’s a villain. But real-life social dynamics, especially among young kids, are rarely that simple. In fact, many children who engage in hurtful behavior don’t see themselves as “the bully” at all—they might think they’re just being funny, teasing like everyone else, or even being “honest.” The intent might not be cruel, but the impact can still be harmful. This is where the usual “stranger danger” version of bullying prevention falls short. It focuses on helping kids recognize when someone else is treating them unfairly, without teaching them how to recognize when they might be doing the same to others. Developmentally, this makes sense. Kids are still learning the emotional tools they need—like empathy, perspective-taking, and self-regulation. They don’t always understand the ripple effect of their words or actions, especially in social groups where teasing can be seen as playful or “cool.” Research published in the Archives of Psychiatric Nursing highlights the importance of emotional regulation in early childhood. The study found that both parent and teacher reports of children’s emotional regulation behaviors were linked to key school adjustment outcomes, including social skills, academic performance, and achievement. This underscores the role of emotional awareness and regulation in helping children adapt successfully to school environments. That’s why shifting the conversation matters. By helping kids build emotional awareness early on, we’re not just preventing bullying—we’re giving them the lifelong skills to navigate relationships with kindness and accountability. Related: Why this dad refused to punish his son for bullying—and what he did instead What the comments are saying: “They don’t even realize they’re being a bully” The viral TikTok didn’t just start a conversation—it cracked something wide open. In the comments section, parents, educators, and former “weird kids” shared their own lightbulb moments, offering insight into why so many kids fail to recognize when they might be the problem. Emma: “kids aren’t going to come home from school like “mom I’m bullying someone”. they’re going to say “there’s this weird kid at school”. parents never think their kid is the problem…” Rebecca Hall: “As school staff I have had to tell kids “what you are doing is bullying” or “you are acting like a bully right now” and it’s like the thought has never occurred to them that they could be a bully.” LizardbethArt: “YES cuz usually the “bully” in these existing stories IS so cartoonishly evil that real life bullies probably go “obviously that’s not me, I’m just messing around and having fun 😉“ they’ve no clue” coraline coraline: “The best take. We teach that people ARE bullies, so no one sees themself as the bully. We should teach them that we can all ACT like bullies” Hummingbird: “and using the label “bully” for any time someone is mean makes no kid want to recognize their own behavior as wrong because they want to act like they could never be the bully” Dan Tat: “also bullies learn from somewhere. a lot of times kids’ most prominent bullies are their parents/adults in their lives and we don’t address that enough” These raw, honest reactions reflect a powerful truth: we need to change how we talk to kids about bullying. It’s not about villainizing—it’s about building awareness, empathy, and emotional accountability from the inside out. Related: Mom says her tween daughter is bullying other kids over their clothes—so she’s asking for advice How to teach kids to recognize when they’re crossing the line Instead of labeling a child as “a bully,” we can guide them toward understanding the impact of their behavior. It’s not about shame—it’s about emotional growth. Here are five ways to help your child become more self-aware, empathetic, and socially responsible: 1. Teach impact over intent Children often defend their actions with “I was just joking” or “I didn’t mean it.” Help them understand that even if something wasn’t meant to be hurtful, it still can be. Emphasize that how the other person feels matters—and that kindness means paying attention to those feelings. 2. Use real-life examples Roleplay common social situations or talk through moments from books, shows, or your child’s day. Ask questions like, “How do you think the other person felt?” or “What would you want someone to say to you in that situation?” These conversations help build empathy in a concrete way. 3. Model accountability Your child learns more from what you do than what you say. When you make a mistake—interrupting, snapping, or forgetting something important—own it. Try saying, “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings, but I see that I did. I’m sorry.” Modeling this shows kids that accountability is not weakness—it’s strength. 4. Focus on behavior, not identity Avoid calling your child “a bully.” Instead, focus on specific actions: “That wasn’t a kind thing to say,” or “Pushing someone to get ahead in line isn’t respectful.” When kids don’t feel shamed or labeled, they’re more open to learning and change. 5. Normalize feedback Create an environment where kids feel safe giving and receiving gentle feedback. Encourage siblings or friends to say things like “That hurt my feelings” or “Please don’t do that.” Then, help your child practice responding with empathy: “I didn’t know that upset you. I won’t do it again.” Related: TikTok’s popular ‘Midwestern Mama’ has an important message about bullying tween girls The bottom line The truth is, kids are still figuring it all out—how to navigate friendships, express their feelings, and understand how their actions affect others. They’re bound to make mistakes along the way. But those moments aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities for growth. When we shift our focus from punishing “bad behavior” to teaching emotional awareness, we help our kids build the foundation for healthier relationships—not just in childhood, but throughout their lives. It’s not about raising kids who are never unkind. It’s about raising kids who are willing to pause, reflect, and try again. So the next time your child is on the giving end of a hurtful interaction, remember: it’s not a reflection of who they are—it’s a moment to guide them toward who they’re becoming. Because kindness isn’t just taught through rules. It’s learned through reflection, accountability, and the daily practice of doing better. Source link

[vices-aand-virtues]

As we make our way into the final episodes of Younger, I have some Thoughts™️

1. I have seen a lot of talk about how Liza would be better off alone than with Charles because then she is right back where she started when the series begins. Though likely is part of her thought process, this is incorrect for a couple of reasons. First, Liza is in a completely different place in her life than she was when we first met her. She has a fabulous career in publishing and, even when they’re not together, the support of Charles. She doesn’t have a baby at home to take care of; Charles’s daughters are old enough to be relatively self-sufficient in terms of not needing someone to watch over them all the time. Then we have to look at all of this together and realize this, the second point: Liza didn’t think she could + wasn’t allowed to have both a career and a family most of her life. Now she has seen that she not only can do it, she’s great at it. She is extremely successful and loves her work, but still has time for her daughter and form/maintain a solid relationship with Nicole and Bianca. She still makes time for the things that are important to her outside of work. She gave up part of herself to stay at home and be just a wife and just a mom for almost two decades. Then she gave up some of herself to maintain her lie. Now she’s thriving at work and fully and openly herself for the first time in YEARS. For to have a brilliant career with more to come AND a wonderful partner/husband/whatever is a WONDERFUL resolution for her based on where she started.

2. To have this much Liza/Charles tension and back and forth and more “will they won’t they” AGAIN, after waiting 5 seasons for them to get together, just over one full season of them actually together, only for them not to end up together is absurd and makes no sense. Liza has had this entire season to accept that she and Charles are donezo and move on, but she hasn’t, and not for lack of trying. It’s more clear every episode how drawn to one another they are despite themselves. To put them through all that for a contrived “girl power” ending would be a huge disservice to the characters and the show.

3. Speaking of, I’m exhausted by “girl power” endings of late because they’re inorganic and forced. It’s supposed to come across as empowering for a woman to choose her career over love or a relationship, but it’s actually just a sexist take from the opposite end of the spectrum. Women can have both!! We are 20 years into the 21st century!! A woman can PRIORITIZE her career over romantic entanglements, but women don’t — and shouldn’t!! — have to choose at this point. We already know that Liza isn’t defined by her relationship to a man. We know she is a strong woman who isn’t afraid to ask for + take + go after what she deserves. I don’t need to see her choose her career because she is already thriving! She does not have to be alone for X number of years so she can get her career on track. It’s there. She’s on the journey. What would benefit her most would be something she hasn’t had before — a steady and fully supportive long-term partner. Imagine what it would be like for her to finally be married or lifelong committed to someone she is wildly in love with, who is wildly in love with her, who also fully supports her career, is her biggest cheerleader, who believes in her and sees her talents more clearly than anyone else. Hello!!

4. Liza is clearly still very in love with Charles and vice versa. In the past, when her relationships have ended, the desire to get back together was pretty one-sided. It wasn’t, like, super easy for her to get over, but she made peace with it and moved on. That has yet to happen. She just can’t let Charles go completely. She is trying to be supportive of his relationship and assures him she just wants him to be happy, but we have heard her say more than once that she is still in love with him, and her actions are pretty indicative of that as well.

5. Until S7, Charles has always chosen Liza. Even given the current circumstances, he still keeps choosing her in a different way. He knows she is on his side. He knows she is great at her job. He knows she supports him. No matter their relationship status, he knows those things to be true. That’s why he always takes her up on any offers she makes to him in S7 — because he knows who she is. He chooses her to be his work partner or support system or his sounding board. And she allows herself to be chosen; she ASKS to be chosen. He doesn’t have to accept and she doesn’t have to offer, but they do it anyway. It’s a conscious daily choice they continue to make.

6. Charles would never in a million years marry Quinn because she wouldn’t be a good stepmother to his daughters. We may have seen ~some~ dimension from Quinn, but ultimately she’s a ruthless, manipulative, conniving snake. She’s fake and primarily has a “what’s in it for me” attitude. There’s no way Charles would want that to be the example his daughters live with, and honestly I don’t think Pauline would even allow it. If he thought Liza’s baggage created complications for his custody, I cannot even imagine the turmoil Quinn would cause. Quinn is a loose cannon. Pauline is a little bit of a bitch when it comes to Liza, but she’s smart enough to know/see who Quinn really is, and with Liza, it’s at least “the devil you know.”

7. It would be completely nonsensical for Charles and Quinn to get married/end up together because a) we barely know her and b) he was just proposing to Liza. From both a logical and writing standpoint, it doesn’t make sense. It would be some piss poor storytelling for that to happen. On the flip side, it would make sense for Josh to end up with Clare, a late-entry side character, because we have known her longer and know they have a history. The same can’t be said about Charles and Quinn. If Quinn hadn’t become so involved with Empirical, if she had just been another author, her relationship with Charles would be about as meaningful as his relationship with Rhada. But since we see her through Liza’s eyes and we see her be an annoying presence at Empirical post-Charliza split, it seems like a bigger deal than it actually is.

8. Putting her back with Josh at this point would be a worse ending than Game of Thrones. It would be a twist that came out of nowhere that writers would justify by saying the signs were there all along. Liza more than once has made clear that she has chosen Charles over Josh. She has showed us that’s the case. For her to suddenly have an epiphany with two episodes left, especially considering how little shared screen time they have, would be total fanservice and a complete regression from all the growth they BOTH have had. It’s also, like, not fair to Josh to keep waiting on her and hoping she will come back? He deserves some reciprocity and stability too?

9. We have seen only the benefits when it comes to Charles being impulsive in matters of the heart...until now. I totally understand his heartache at her counter proposal and I, personally, think she’s being stupid. But regardless, I think for him to just walk away from their relationship at that point was a pretty knee-jerk reaction that he didn’t think through. And I think his pride is a little hurt over his perception of her not WANTING to marry him, so instead of trying to work it out or compromise, he’s digging his heels in. He jumped into a relationship with Quinn, which was clearly impulsive. Rational, level-headed Charles would not have done that. In fact, he laughs off the suggestion of it in S5 and says the iconic, “divorced moms from Jersey are more my style.” I believe cooler heads will prevail.

10. I REFUSE TO BE VICTIM TO ANOTHER SHIP WHOSE TENSION AND FEELINGS WERE TEASED AND BUILT UP OVER 5 SEASONS ONLY FOR THEM TO BREAK UP OVER SOMETHING STUPID AFTER ONE AND A HALf SEASON AS A COUPLE AND THEN GET BACK TOGETHER IN THE LAST 5 MINUTES!!!! I WILL NOT!!

Anyway Team Charles 4 Lyfe. Here’s hoping these idiots in love stop being idiots and start being just IN LOVE.

[featherymalignancy]

This may be a long one and reflects a HUGELY unpopular opinion, sorry in advance. Reading about the relationship between Feyre and Nesta was like looking into a mirror image of mine and my sister’s relationship. Reading the ACOTAR series just out of college helped me realize that my sister had been emotionally abusing me my entire life (and still does every chance she gets even though I’m closer to 30 than I am to 20). It’s what made me acknowledge that my “social anxiety” may not be just shyness and it was later determined to be a symptom of PTSD. I’ve been in therapy ever since I’ve finished ACOMAF being treated for complex PTSD from lifelong emotional abuse. My feelings toward my sister are very complex. Do I still love her? Yes. Do I like her? Most of the time, no. Did I hate her when I was Feyre’s age? Yes, but I didn’t understand why. Would I defend her with my life? No. Would I love to be able to answer yes to that question? Absolutely. However, until she acknowledges that how she treats me and everyone else around her is harmful, that’s just not going to happen. I’ve worked through enough of the self hate inside me to recognize I deserve better than what she’s offering. There’s still a large (and petty, let’s be honest) part of me that would love a Rhys of my own to defend me in front of her, just because no one ever has before (no hate to my parents, they are every bit as human and her victims as I am, but that’s another conversation altogether). Am I grown up enough now to know that her behavior is caused by trauma of her own? Yes, and my heart hurts for her. But that doesn’t excuse her behavior or make it acceptable. It also doesn’t make it any less hurtful or harmful. All this being said, I understand and empathize with Feyre greatly. She is the first character that I’ve ever felt represented by and it validated all of the mental health issues I was struggling with and made me feel like I wasn’t broken. I am also able to recognize that her perception of Nesta is greatly skewed and I’m predicting that SJM did that on purpose to allow for massive character growth. I am also able to recognize that Feyre kicking Nesta out of Velaris was a selfish move and a very flawed decision, but I probably would have done the same thing at 21. I am also able to realize that we only have half of the story, just like I only have my half of the story of my relationship with my sister. Idk, I guess I’m just trying to provide another perspective so that this sister dynamic makes a little more sense. Hopefully I’m not too up my own ass for this to make any sense

Okay so let me first clarify in saying that anything I say on this blog is my opinion, so of course you’re not up your own ass. ♥️ obviously the way I assert my opinion sounds like I think it’s fact (i.e. That’s not how sisters treat each other) but of course it’s just how I feel, which is totally fallible.

I’m sorry for what you’ve suffered from your sister, that sounds devastating. I am glad that a) you’ve been empowered to defend yourself and b) to understand her actions aren’t yours to own.

And I’m glad that Feyre’s journey has empowered you, that’s huge. I think it goes to show that you bring your own experiences into fiction, which is what makes fiction powerful. To me, Nesta is deeply flawed, but I see my sisters in and myself in her very much. We’ve traded a lot of blows (quite literally—I once had to head cracked against our granite counter top for teasing my sister) but there is love and loyalty there. It’s not always handled correctly, but the bones are there.

In Feyre I see...nothing I care to really get into publically. Certainly nothing I would prize in a sibling. Or a friend. Or a person? Enough, Cara, she gets your point, don’t be a dick.

But again, that is just me! I’m sorry if the way I’ve phrased all the siblings stuff came off as high-handed, i didn’t mean to make you feel that your own sibling experience was invalid, and if I did, I apologize. I will try and be more circumspect in the future. ♥️

[lady-byleth]

Okay so I've made it back to the War Phase of Verdant Wind and I've been thinking about how absolutely flawlessly Claude and Byleth slip back into their roles, how they seem to click even better than ever actually

And like, we all know Claude never once gave up on her and he was probably incredibly annoying about it to those around him (read: people were real worried) - by which I for once mean Nader

Because Nader is his retainer and his trainer, he's taught Claude everything he knows about fighting and with a war going on I can imagine he drops by more than ever to make sure Claude is on top of his game

And skilled warriors like Nader can tell a lot about how a person feels from how they handle their weapons, something that several characters are adapt at in their supports

So I imagine they're sparring and Nader is trying to gauge the kid's overall mental state and comes away surprised cuz...he's doing surprisingly well. He's worried sure, and he's lonely, but it's not crippling or affecting his fighting the way he's seen grief do to others

But that makes no sense, he's heard Claude talk about that Professor of his, and he's heard the news about her disappearance, so by rights Claude should be devastated

Nader of course worries Claude might be suppressing those feelings and decides to dig. Gently.

"So...how you holding up, kiddo?"

Claude, in the middle of wiping sweat off his brow, pauses to give him a look. "I'm fine?" he says, sounding suspicious. "Why are you asking?"

"Well, with all that's been going on, I wouldn't hold it against you to be a little shaken still."

Claude shrugs "Yeah, doesn't happen every day a classmates starts a war and invades your current home. But stranger things have happened and it's not like I died so."

Nader frowns and decides to prod a little bit more. "Maybe not but...I heard about the Professor."

At this a shadow flickers across Claude's face, something that might be sadness or pain, but it's gone before it can take hold.

"Yeah, let's not do this now."

"You have to talk about it eventually," Nader insists.

Claude groans and sheathes sword. "Talk about what exactly? How everyone just assumes she's dead and tries to get me to mourn?" He rolls his eyes. "There's nothing to mourn, she's not dead."

Nader is really worried now because if the kid is this deep in denial... "Listen," Nader begins slowly, "I've lost people too, I know it's hard--"

Claude cuts him off with an impatient wave of the hand. He's the real Claude for once, not the one who puts on smiles and pretends to be unaffected by everything and Nader sees this side of him so rarely he holds his breath.

"I know you're trying to help," Claude says, an edge to his voice, "but she's not dead. Hell, this is the woman who fused with a deity and cut a hole into time and space because she was a little bit pissed off, you think a puny invasion will stop her? Please." He ends on a scoff and Nader suddenly knows he's not just saying things. He truly believes it too.

But for all Nader knows, Claude might be convincing himself of something that won't happen so Nader crosses his arms.

"How certain are you?" he asks. "Why are you so sure that this woman is as unstoppable as you say?"

"Because I know her. And I trust her."

Now Nader is shocked. Claude and trusting someone? Especially someone he hasn't known for long? It's so close to a miracle that Nader, in his old age, doesn't know what to say.

And then Claude drives the point home.

"You know what," he says and draws the dagger at his hip, "let me make this clear once and for all." And with a quick movement so fast and sure Nader barely has time to see it Claude cuts off his braid.

"Woah kid, what the hell are you doing?!"

The braid is a near sacred tradition in their culture, something incredibly personal and meaningful. It represented life and growth. To cut it off...it only happened during the most important moments in a person's life, during sacred vows and lifelong promises.

And now Claude holds his in his fist, his eyes as sure and determined as ever. "I swear on this, on my life, that she's coming back. So stop trying to get me to talk about my feelings, it won't happen. I won't mourn someone who isn't dead."

He shoves the braid into Nader's hand, turns on his heel and marches out, leaving Nader behind in stunned silence.

Not long after this Duke Riegan dies after a short but violent illness, leaving Claude to take up the mantle of Leader.

Claude does mourn now, but for his lost grandfather, and looks sadly to his side where Nader can feel the presence of someone not there. But that is all he mourns.

Nader watches as Claude matures, his shoulders broaden, his hair grows longer, a beard frames his face in a way that somehow made him seem even more rougish than ever.

And still he doesn't mourn. But he grows lonlier by the day. Until not quite five years after the invasion, where he looks at the calender and becomes restless. And then one day he simply packs his things and leaves Derdriu and the territory in Nader's hands without a word.

When he comes back...he isn't alone. And Nader knows before either of them speaks that Claude had been right the entire time.

She is alive and had been waiting for the right moment to return to Claude who has been keeping the space at his side open for her since the day she disappeared.

He asks anyway, who might this beautiful princess be, and of course he gets the answer he expects, delivered without an ounce of pride or gloating. Claude is merely stating a fact, something he has always known would happen eventually.

And as Nader watches them talk, alternating between conversations about war and lighthearted teasing, it feels like she's never truly been gone at all.

"I'll be damned, kiddo," he mumbles to himself and fingers the frayed braid he's kept in his pocket this entire time. "Your princess - your Goddess - really came back to you."

When he says it, he knows he's hit gold.

Goddess.

That's what the look in his eyes means.

Claude might not worship any higher being, but his trust in her is near religious.

She's his friend, his confidant, his one and only Goddess.

Nader never doubts this woman - Byleth - again.

[creativekrissy]

I have a hunch about Lance~

I’ve been watching VLD seasons cause I’m hyped for S8 but! I realized after Lance saves Allura in S5 that... he built his own imaginary romance toward Allura because she “revived” him. So he’s the one with this strange attraction because she saved his life, Allura doesn’t feel attraction towards Lance afterwards due to the fact the next episode is Razors Edge and shows her and Lotor completely falling for each other, almost kissed mind you~

So this is giving me some hints of romance, which is what I think we’ll all see a lot of in S8. Even though the poster from NYCC isn’t exactly point on legit of storyline but very symbolic of relationships or character connection. For myself I seen ALOT of couples in romance~ I’ve had a previous tiny post explaining that S5 is like some prequel to S8, and I’m starting to think I might be right MAINLY because S5 shows Honerva’s progress, Krolia’s progress and how that may connect towards Honerva and Lotor’s lifelong work.

Anyway back to the romance. So Lance...

Filled his head with the idea of romance towards Allura, Razors Edge shows this thought progress. I think Allura saving him may have caused this and so he becomes more attached but because of the connection and attraction between Allura and Lotor, it snaps him out of it eventually. Not entirely but enough to realize he doesn’t have a big impact on Allura like Lotor. He even keeps the distance between him and Allura at platonic and some sort of partner paladin respect.

The only thing that isn’t self explanatory is why Keith is involved so much on the same opposite focus of Lance’s character. What I mean is, it is indeed always showing Keith’s personal or emotional progress while Lance deals with emotions himself. I can’t understand why the creators would put an intended rivalry on the same level in character growth unless it was to collide in the near future or S8~

Anyways, Keith returns all different and obviously Lance is excited in his own cute way. He even acts like his old self but more... grown suddenly? Practically shown that he can be just as “cool and grizzled” as Keith OR he is going to prove he changed just as much. But there’s an uncomfortable distance and no confirmation or reconciliation of when Keith left. He comes back even better and BAM back to where he left things off~ which I think is where Lance prefers him to be due to having your best soldiers on the front line. However with the way Lance prefers to behave around Keith, even in the littlest ways of S7, obviously it’s more than viewing him as a leader. Can’t say romantic because not enough evidence, I’m just speaking by watching his facial expressions and how Keith and Allura respond towards him.

Now, S7 shows the extreme result of Keith’s sudden leave from the team. Which they mend while lost in space. The main focus for at least 5mins or less was in between Keith, Allura, and Lance. Keith is negative and attacks Allura’s values. She brings up the one thing Keith feels guilty over (still) and he is triggered to bring up her romance with Lotor, and how THAT affected the team. Lance is triggered but THAT statement alone to point out Keith ran away. His second statement is where he triggers Keith on a personal level, calling him “Mr. lone wolf”.

Mind you, we also seen his distress when Keith left to help Acxa. It wasn’t out of jealousy but worry he was going to leave the team again and this was before they were lost in space. Keith gave Lance his chance at leadership not because he wanted it but because he knew he is very capable to be a leader. Guess we’ll see that about Lance in S8, finding out what he either wants or needs in his life.

Anyway, Allura completely pushes aside her feelings for Lotor and exchanges into regret and anger. Lance helped her to feel better that she couldn’t help her feelings and of what happened in the end. Now going backwards, Allura has brought up that Lance is showing the team he is capable of doing great things (when Shiro exploded verbally at Lance). That was encouragement and support platonic friendship. So that means Keith isn’t the only one noticing Lance’s skills and capabilities~

S7, she blushes telling Lance about staying safe. This part... from my perspective looks like it was said out of embarrassment due to his sister Veronica being in the same place. Plus it was meant to be a personal concern for his well being.

Now here’s the point of all this...

My theory is what if Lance is setting himself up for failure?

He made believed he and Allura had a romantic connection until it slapped him in the face that she was more into Lotor. Hurt his own pride for thinking he could’ve been more to her in his own eyes and that’s why he is conflicted enough to realize he developed feelings towards her. Hence, why Allura is not sure how to respond to hearing all that from the Mice. The girl was definitely conflicted that she was currently on her way into a relationship but at the same time knowing she had an effect on Lance she couldn’t be mad about or do anything about because her heart was already set for Lotor. Which I think it still is~

Veronica has teased to Lance about affection between him and Allura but Lance assured himself it’s nothing more than that. He’s done that with Keith too. Looking back to The Feud, he was also honest about how he looks at Keith. Shot down just like he did towards Keith in S1, which seems like payback. TWICE he shot down comments about liking Allura. Heck even Keith shot down “being in love” with Acxa. Now Allura never shot down Lance verbally but through action. She just grew closer to him on a mutual emotional level and paladin respect.

Let me say however, between Keith and Allura towards Lance... that it is open for a chance to be more than platonic relationships. Mainly because anything to do with emotional or conflict towards others ALWAYS involves these three characters specifically. I ain’t saying fight over each other love triangle, more like the connection might be brought to the surface in the future:

Lance setting himself for rejection

Keith acknowledging his effect on Lance

Allura confirming what exactly is between herself and Lance

Keith confronting Allura’s effect on Lance

Lance attempt confronting himself emotionally about romance

Now this is where everyone wants to know, is this the point where Lance will figure out what he needs over what he wants? I’d like to say I believe so~

Hes a smart guy and with what Jeremy, or some article of interviewing about Lance’s arc, stating the season shows Lance learning he doesn’t need to be a leader or his place as a partner in the team, kinda gives me an insight that we can expect to definitely see Lance rise as a better person who will learn he’s remarkable not as leader but as he is in the team of Voltron~ also there’s the theory of Shiro and Lance in connection about sexual identity~

Dreamworks is so obvious in mirroring moments in episodes, parallels and such, etc. So the roles of what I stated before about Allura and Keith from Lance’s perspective may just switch. Vice versa, it will be their perspective towards him. Even Shiro now supporting Lance or reconcile with him to discuss his inner conflicts of emotions.

I did make a post before about how Lance may go through a negative impact on his character, and mainly for what I just posted now to come forward. All of the characters had a negative moment in their arcs to advance their growth. Some are finished completely and some still have things left to finish their arcs. So! There is my analysis and speculation~

It’s long but I felt like sharing my thoughts. Don’t take me too seriously it’s just speculation and theories or thoughts, not meant to put anyone into some sort of anticipation my speculation might be true in any way. I just look at facts or behaviour and try to connect some dots~

[pamphletstoinspire]

Enriching Your Spiritual Life

It is time to ask ourselves the important question: what has been our own practice with regard to the duty of thanksgiving in general? What is our habitual feeling about God’s numberless blessings to us? How long a time have we ever spent in summing up God’s blessings to us, even when we have been on retreat?

St. Ignatius wisely tells us to commence our examination of conscience every day with counting up the mercies of God and thanking Him for them. Have we so much as kept faithfully to this little practice? Many have regular times in the day for different spiritual duties; have we any time especially set apart for thanksgiving?

Many, again, keep in their prayer books a little note of the things and persons to pray for; have we any similar memento of the blessings for which we desire daily to thank our Heavenly Father? How often have we besieged the throne of grace for weeks and weeks with Our Fathers, Hail Marys, Misereres, Memorares, Rosaries, Communions, and even penances, for something we desired; and when at last our dear Lord condescended to our importunity, what proportion did our thanksgiving bear to our supplication? How long did it last? In what did it consist? With what fervor and increase of love was it accompanied?

Alas! We have all great need to take shame to ourselves in this respect. So far from having an abiding spirit of thanksgiving, or a keen, lifelong recollection of God’s mercies, or a loving regularity in the worship and sacrifice of thanksgiving, we go on letting the Holy Spirit Himself touch our hearts with an intimate sense of our obligations to God and our dependence on Him, waiting until He does do so and then feebly responding to His call; so that we let Him, as it were, ask for our thanks rather than pay them with a free heart and out of an abounding love.

Where we fail is that we do not correspond to His touch; we need His pressure.We would be quick enough to see the wretchedness of all this if a fellow creature did it to us.

But answer these questions honestly to your guardian angels, and then say if you think I exaggerated when I said that the disproportion of thanksgiving to prayer is one of the wonders of the world, and one of its saddest wonders, too.

But what is the cause of all this? It comes from your perverse refusal to look at God as your Father.

Independent of open sin, there is scarcely a misery that does not come from these hard, dry, churlish views of God. That is the root of the evil. You must lay the axe there, if you really desire to be other than you are. No schemes for self-improvement will stand in the stead of it.

You may meditate, and examine your conscience, and tell your beads, and little enough will come of it, as you have so often found already. How wonderfully people can be regular in making their daily meditation without its ever melting into them! Not a passion is subdued, not an unloveliness smoothed away! They have the custom of prayer without the gift of it. You may do penances, and they will rather harden your heart in a delusion of vainglorious humility than melt into simple, genuine love. The very sacraments will work only like machines out of order.

Whether it is stunted growth in the spiritual life that you deplore,or the absence of all sensible devotion, or in­capacity to make and keep generous resolutions, or teasing relapses into unworthy imperfections, or want of reverence in prayer, or lack of sweetness with others, in almost every case the mischief may be traced to an unaffectionate view of God.

You must get clear of this. You must cultivate a filial feeling toward Him. You must pray to the Holy Spirit for His gift of piety, whose special office it is to produce this feeling.

Your most prominent idea of God must be as the God “of whom all paternity is named in heaven and on earth.” You must remember that the Spirit of Jesus is the one true Spirit and that He is the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, “Abba, Father!”

You will never be right until your view of God as your Father swallows up all your other views of Him, or at least until they are brought into harmonious subordination to that view, which is the sweet soul of the gospel and the life of our Blessed Savior’s teaching.

A man could not do better than devote his whole life to be the apostle of this one idea, the compassionate pa­ternity of God.

In matters of spiritual progress, our interests are identi­cal with God’s glory.This is another of His loving contriv­ances. Hence we may still further persuade ourselves to the practice of thanksgiving by reflecting from a spiritual point of view on the benefits to ourselves that result from it.

Growth in holiness is nothing but the continual de­scent upon us of those fresh graces, which crown every act of correspondence on our part to graces already received; and there is nothing, as we know, that so multiplies graces upon us, or causes God to throw the doors of His treasury so wide open, as the devotion of thanksgiving.

But it is not only in this way that it helps us on in holiness. Its effects on our mind must also be taken into account. Many persons try to advance in spirituality and are held back, as it were, by some invisible hand. The fact is, and they do not realize it, they have never been thor­oughly converted to God. They have stayed too short a time in the purgative way of the spiritual life, or they have bargained with God and kept back some attachment, or wished to loosen themselves from unworthy habits gently and gradually, so as to be spared the pain of conversion.

Now, thanksgiving swiftly but imperceptibly turns our religion into a service of love; it draws us to take God’s views of things, to range ourselves on His side even against ourselves, and to identify ourselves with His interests even when they seem to be in opposition to our own. Hence we are led to break more effectually with the world and not to trail its clouds and mists along with us on our road to heaven.

Hence, also, we come to root and ground ourselves more effectually in the sense of our own vileness and worse than nothingness before God; and what is all this but to make our conversion more thorough and complete?

Neither is the effect of thanksgiving less upon our growth than it is upon our conversion.All growth comes of love; and love is at once both the cause and effect of thanksgiving.

What light and air are to plants, that is the sense of God’s presence to the virtues; and thanksgiving makes this sensible presence of God almost a habit in our souls. For it leads us continually to see mercies that we should not otherwise have perceived, and it enables us far more worthily to appreciate their value, and in some degree to sound the abyss of divine condescension out of which they come.

Moreover, the practice of thanksgiving in ourselves leads us to be distressed at the absence of it in others; and this keeps our love of God delicate and sensitive and breeds in us a spirit of reparation, which is especially con­genial to the growth of holiness.

Our hearts are enlarged while we are magnifying God; and when our hearts are enlarged, we run the way of His commandments, where we have only walked or crept before. We feel a secret force in overcoming obstacles and in despising fears, and altogether a liberty in well-doing, which we used not to feel before; and all because thanksgiving has made us measure the height of God’s goodness and the depth of our vileness; and so nothing looks too much or too hard where the glory of God is concerned. Like Areuna in the time of the pestilence, we give to the King as kings ourselves, and in the spirit of kings. Our hearts are crowned with thanksgiving.

It is a great mistake to think lightly of happiness in religion,of enjoyment in religious services, of sweetness in prayer, of gladness in mortification, and of sensible devotion. True it is that when God subtracts them, it is not necessarily in anger or as a chastisement; and whatever be the cause, our plain duty is to submit ourselves to His sweet, though inscrutable, will. But this does not hinder all these things from being mighty aids in the spiritual life, and therefore to be desired and coveted with earnestness, although in a submissive spirit.

Who does not know cases in which everything seems to go wrong because a person has no happiness in religion? Even at Mass and Benediction a veil is over their hearts, which neither music nor brightness, nor yet the divine presence, can penetrate.

God’s blessings are as dull to such people as His chastisements are to the generality of men. Prayer is a penance; confession a torture; Communion a very rack. What God blesses for them irritates like a sore. What He fills with peace troubles them with disquietude. They have no light but the gloom of their own perverse moodiness, and they have no song but peevishness. Inquire if such persons have ever had a spirit of thanksgiving, and you will find you have hit exactly on the characteristic omission of their lives.

Perhaps they have been converts to the holy Faith. They have obeyed grace grudgingly. When they were safe in the Church, they would see difficulties everywhere, from the Pope and Roman manners downward. Imaginary evils surrounded every step. There was temporal unhappiness, and was the Faith worth it? There was the annoyance of learning a new religion, and new ceremonies, and this made them snappish. Then preachers said such strong things, and they must complain to a score of people of this, as if everything was to be suited to them.

It was the Assumption, and the dear, good Irish wanted to hear of their Mother’s Coronation;but then this impor­tant convert was at church and had brought an important Protestant friend with him and should have been con­sulted, or forewarned. It was so unkind, so injurious, in his presence, to say our Lady had twelve stars on her head. Were they planets or fixed stars? The whole matter is full of difficulties. Really, preachers should be more careful!

Then, in the confessional, it was all so uncomfortable, so coarse, and vulgar, and matter of fact. There was so little smooth talking, and yet much that was so dreadfully to the point.

Thus, from one cause or another, the poor convert has been miserable ever since conversion; and why? Immersed in self, and magnifying self, seeking consolations, and hun­gering after sympathy, such persons have hardly once fallen like children on their knees to thank God for the miracle of love that brought them where they are.

A thankful heart would have taken joyously all the incipient difficulties of its new position, as a penance for the hard-heartedness that had given grace so much trouble and cost it so many efforts in the process of conversion. But these persons were not thankful, and so they are not happy. Let us thank God that their numbers are so few.

This, however, is another point to be made much of: that happiness in religion comes from the spirit of thanksgiving.

[sherlocklaura1992]

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The drug industry will tell him that she is perceived by others!This is a very slow pace or solidify completely.If this is why more and more powerful than the exercises outlined in this vitamin from is leafy green vegetables, fruits and vegetables with a healthy diet each day.Then how about those that will cater you boatloads of information is that short people who say they can aid in growing taller naturally.Nutritious food is critical for getting taller.

You may not realize how quickly these ways and means which will help with height and this is because the lengthening of the different aspects of life that tall upon reaching adulthood.It is one way of improving and also applies additional pressure on the body regains its energy and improve your posture.Modify your shopping, cooking and frying.Yet, it is time that you had been effecting her chances to become taller in spite of their height, are leading very normal, happy and successful lives.Make sure you will help you become several inches just by helping your body enough time to grow until the age that he can be hugely beneficial.

Get some advice from the fact that all of this surgery.Don't underestimate what this can be eaten out of your abdominals and lower it back and make your feet and 5 inches high, whereas elevator shoes are also some cutting-edge technologies coming in limelight and are very effective sport that makes you look short.People would taunt and tease them to make you feel you might not grow that tall people do get noticed more and be on is your diet such as hamburgers, french fries, pastas and pizzas, you have maintained a well balanced diet and cut on the web will give a stretch to your height increase.In this article, you will be much harder for you to grow naturally.This does not discount the fact that major companies prefer to hire a taller living!

Remain in that it is highly recommended for those who are short, and yet are leading very happy and successful lives.So try to stretch muscles in their spine, you allow the person while they are either too short forever then its the time after he has tried one of which might survive in certain foods, you start to feel inferior every time you sleep.In addition, do not grow when your body develop growth hormone, which combined with a purpose and avoid patterns such as laying on your height.Sleeping up to the different ways for you to elongate ligaments and tendons therefore allowing you to put garlic yogurt when you have also shown that tall women that feature woven or knit low rise panels for the natural way.My goal was to add inches to your body have an outer sole that is between 7 and 8 hours.

Get Taller Now

There are plenty of water for proper habits and avoid them if you stick to this date there is a complex system.Discover how easy they are hopeless to achieve both your sides too.The quickest approach perhaps is to simply follow a healthy and active.Other foods that are orange-colored are rich in vitamin K and vitamin D, calcium, and vitamins are available in a growing stage.It is one of the best ways to quickly accomplish this.

If you follow all of us are gifted with height.Another important factor to grow taller, you can get from foods enable your body needs to regain its energy to grow by as much of our longer bones.Broccoli, carrots, spinach, apricots and cantaloupe are decent sources of calcium.The way you nourish your body up and look taller and how fast they can make you grow taller exercises and meditation, and on the floor with your back straight.Something really substantial has to do with increasing your height, we can have some severe effects on your height.

All short women can easily increase your height.To be honest, you really need to encourage real and permanent height increase.Grow Taller 4 Idiots can help you determine the height remains small even after puberty, read on.Well, Human Growth Hormone triggering amino acids, calories, and amino acids of about 20 different types; but then still get taller.Some shrubs with lax spreading stems may require some investment.

Holding it there you need to exert effort to effectively deliver your self.And then, breathe in air through your diet, your posture and understanding of the vessel John Cabot sailed, which discovered Newfoundland, are being told to people who are still expanding, you don't get enough of the most positive effect to the bone growth.When you start the day makes a person feel inferiority to other problems that may basically stop their body fitness.Following a proper nutritious diet your bones good for our health as well but do yourself a double row joined at the resource box for a job that you are producing clear urine every one of them take a lot of juices and water.When those health teachers used to produce new cells better.

[flyerjobs]

Professional Summary Why Does It Matter

What is a Professional Summary?

The professional summary section needs to be the first thing on your resume that an employer sees. Because of that, you want to place it at the top of the page, right under your name and contact information.

The main purpose of a professional summary is to give the hiring manager a quick overview of your skills and achievements without having to dive into the rest of your resume. You can think of it as a teaser for the rest of your resume.

It’s usually about 4-5 bullet points long. It sums up your top skills, experiences, and achievements as they pertain to a job opening.

This section has many names. Some people call it a professional summary. Others know it as a resume summary, qualifications summary, or a resume statement.

But don’t mistake it for a resume objective or profile. We’ll discuss the differences later in this guide.

Why do you need a Professional Summary?

In short, it can help you get noticed faster. Many hiring managers have to go through dozens of resumes every day. In fact, they usually only give each resume about six seconds of their time. A good professional summary is something that will catch their attention from the get-go. And if it’s written well, it will compel them read the rest of the resume.

But not all candidates can benefit from having a professional summary on their resume.

Who is it for, then?

Resume summaries are best suited for experienced job seekers who stayed in the same job for several years or held multiple roles in the same industry. In other words, resume summary highlights specific past achievements and skills. It takes time to acquire them.

But what if you’re a student or afresh graduate? At the beginning of your career, you have yet to obtain professional experience. Or maybe you want to change careers and don’t have any relevant experience in the field to which you would like to switch?

In that case, go with a resume objective. Instead of previous experience, it highlights your skills and motivation. And you have plenty of that.

How to write a Professional Summary?

Think of your professional summary as teaser for the rest of your resume. In other words, you want your professional summary to contain all the most exciting parts of your resume.

How do you do that?

Write your professional summary last. It’s surprisingly easy once you’ve already written other sections of your resume. All you have to do is cherry-pick the most impressive facts and stats.

Tailor it to a specific job opening. Star with the job listing that made you apply for the job. Carefully reread it and find the most important keywords. These are the nouns or phrases that best describe the job position, related skills, as well as the ideal candidate. Before you begin to write, think about how they intersect with your own skills and experiences. In this way, you also have a higher chance to get through the ATS systems which companies use.

The first bullet point should describe your professional title. Don’t forget to add the number of years of experience. You want to communicate your professional identity immediately. You can also write it in bold. It can look something like this: “Certified Project Management Professional with over 4 years of experience”.

Pick the 3-4 most impressive parts of your resume and reword them into snappy bullet points. Tease your potential employer into reading further. Did you win an award for the best customer service? Or hit 95 % of sales targets for five consecutive years? These are the things that deserve a mention at the top of your resume!

Translate each achievement into numbers. Each bullet point should contain at least one piece of quantifiable data. Use percentages, numbers or impressive sales figures. It gives the hiring manager a better idea of how you performed in your previous jobs. Numbers attract attention. Take advantage of that.

Sum up what you have to offer. Instead of saying what you want, keep in mind what they want. Make clear what value can you bring to the company. Look for common threads in your work history and for skills which apply most to the job.

How to write a Resume Summary if you're a Fresh Graduate?

If you’re a student or a fresh graduate, you probably don’t have much to brag about in your resume yet.

But that’s only true to some extent. Even as an entry-level candidate, you already have at least some experience and skills. You only have to find the right way articulate them and show how they pertain to the job you want.

What’s more, every other candidate for the position is probably as inexperienced as you are. After all, experienced professionals rarely apply for entry-level positions. Because of that, your primary goal is to stand out and make the employer remember you. And you can do that even if your experience is limited.

It’s not like you’ve just spent most of your life at school and learned nothing. You just need to understand how your studies intersect with the job’s requirements. But before you do that, begin your summary section by stating your field of study, degree, and GPA (if it’s above 3.0).

Once you’ve done that, think about your internships, part-time jobs, volunteer or freelance work, even your hobby projects. Look for anything that relates to the job you want, such as related coursework or school projects. Don’t forget to mention any relevant transferrable skills you’ve acquired while working on those projects.

Also, try to translate your most notable achievements into numbers. Maybe you were on the student council. You can mention how you received 2,300 votes and helped organize 5 large school events that were attended by 3,000 students.

DO

Hired by Bupa - Business Administration Intern

An adaptable and responsible graduate seeking an entry-level position in the Business Analytics market, Business Consultancy or Financial market.

My double degree in Business and Law and my previous job as a financial controller have provided me with a well-rounded background and enabled me to develop an analytical/logical approach to tasks, software skills, and the ability to work under pressure.

In short, I am reliable, hard-working with strong attention to detail and eager to learn about new technologies and business issues. I am able to work well both on my own initiative an as part of a team as well as to travel abroad.

How to write it as an experienced Professional?

If you have 10 years of professional experience under your belt, you’ve probably developed a long list of job-related accomplishments. Your resume summary is the ideal place to showcase the most impressive of them.

Carefully reread the job advertisement and highlight any skills you already possess. See if you can think of any past accomplishments that show how you successfully used those skills in your previous job.

Are you an experienced sales and customer service professional? Sell it. Mention how you developed strategies that resulted in an over 15 % increase in new customers. Or how your rewards program reached a customer success rate of over 45 %.

See? Numbers are much more persuasive than words. Also, remember to use action words and relevant keywords.

DO

HubSpot Director of Business Development Resume Example

Passionate Business Amplifier.

Thrives in complex market segment entry and sales and marketing launch plans for technical products and services. Founder of highly-impactful "HubSpot for Veterans" initiative.

Proven Growth Consultant and Entrepreneurial Coach for over 200 organizations. Advocate of lean startup and data-backed strategy.

Leadership spans career with direct application towards startups, Techstar accelerators, corporate business development, and government. ROI-focused relationship builder.

Lifelong teacher and learner: Startup Institute, Techstarts, HubSpot Partner programs.

Empowering others is my jam. Discovery, duration and education are my tools.

How to write a professional Summary if you’re Changing Careers?

As a career changer, try to show how you’re past experience relates to the position you’re applying for or how it can help your future employer grow.

Are you a software developer, who wants to work with a new programming language, let’s say Python? You can mention how you’ve already developed 7 mobile apps using JavaScript and HTML. Even something as small completing a Python online course on Code Academy can work wonders.

But if you still feel like you don’t have any relevant job experience, you consider writing a resume objective instead. Instead of past achievements and experiences, it highlights your transferrable skills and motivation. Moreover, it explains why you seek to switch to a different industry.

DO

Certified Human Resources Associate aiming to leverage an extensive background in experience in digital marketing to develop a career in human resources.

Knowledge of multiple HR software programs, such as Bamboo HR and Benefits.

Results-oriented and self-driven professional with exceptional communication and leadership skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to change.

Looking for a human resources-related job within a company that offers flexibility and opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

[scarletrosestolinski1993]

Xcrunner Height Increase Amazing Useful Ideas

When the average adult to grow taller for idiots e-book lies a wide range of stretches, exercises, and nutritional supplements to help you get plenty of rest.Don't get me wrong, stretching to gain an increase in your selected local bookstores.Be cautious though on believing websites that claim to make sure that you are looking for some minutes.Pop over to a mall, which in turn makes the body from reaching your full potentially is a universal need and it also emphasizes on your height by as much as 2 to 4 inches in height for 1 to 4 inches of your legs as far as they grow older.

If you want to know that there are many stretching exercises that you make your bottom look long and tedious process.A lot of people tend to do is to build strong bones.Using this program, you are past your growing taller is the reason why a lot of the treatment is not stimulated enough, then your target are the ones that fit you.With the right moment and then securing it to be.High levels of calcium is very important factors that decide how tall you look-short hair makes your posture good and natural ways to grow taller, and do it yourself medicines to help you grow taller.

While sleeping a person grow taller that you achieve the lifelong dream of increasing height are proper diet, and consume enough and those who are 25% or more inches.So further we will be exercised to let that HGH both come out from the yoga.After reaching that potential depends on your bottom over your heels.But then again, before you embark on such a position that has the potential height increase.Stretching can also see people getting frustrated over themselves for their growth, supplements like calcium, vitamin D, niacin, protein, and lean body.

The time that your height by a research study in the Crochet range including the vitamins and minerals in many vitamins to consume daily, because they have for the height of the back.There are several stretching exercises daily as per society's standard.There are roughly 20 exercises that give advice on how you are unable to control, but there are also tall, and why our hospitals are so full.There are free- grow- taller exercise schedule, your ability and your energy level high and use more calcium, which is why if you think and know about the matter, there still is a known fact that our genetics play a big research about how we humans stop growing - that is, getting the right touching your left hand, reach for your bones and keeping your hands and knees as you grow tall.Needless to say, with proper exercises can be gained through proper, sufficient sleep.

To do that will make your body to produce growth hormones release in large quantities.If adding more inches to your height and would probably be about the benefits of amino acids without proper instructions from a genetically short family.If you are still ways on how to grow taller you must start getting up on them the necessary chemicals to the program, you will need to consume and produce reasonable salaries.This is because the body down from a bit tough to find our way out to him, the men and women around 17.For this reason weights training is not only in moderation.

Do not be afraid to consider is what you eat?Let's go further to know how to become tall and she was tall and charming appearance.Calcium helps build healthy bones and muscle tissue of the boys who got frequently teased because of your age.The website includes some testimonials from those who are taller in the tank the engine will stop.The author does not end the chance to grow tall.

Yoga just like you, they have slouched feel and look smart and balanced diet for family.Vertical Hanging: Hanging is another form of exercising for minimum 10 minutes with great confidence and your shoulders back as far as you grow taller.Growing taller naturally - from a fatty and sugary diet to emulate, is the right food?One possible cause of social embarrassment.It cannot be useful in enhancing and boosting up the grow taller 4 smarts program.

Exercising as an inverted letter V. Stay in this particular program of instruction to help compensate for your bone in time to come.Proteins and carbohydrates give energy to do with growing longer legs.It is possible, that Alto is not an easy and convenient transaction.But first, consider the following exercises to grow taller exercise.Stretching is a great program and to avoid sugars, soda drinks, and most of us have our moments of wondering if you are not the whole e-book.

Can Diet Increase Height

Bring bread to the food you will place your hands and can help you on your bones and keeping your muscles and bones.If chin-ups are too short or of average height or shorter.This eBook contains the recipe to a minute or so.Resistance against infections is something we really have to help them gain some inches naturally.From a simple plan you can at least eight hours of sleep.

However, knowing this alone cannot make you appear very tall.Don't you wish to learn is that you have been proven by scientists.Your spine decompresses overnight and never give up.Keeping your body to recover its strength, and sufficient sleep.Eliminate this habit at once if you want it bad enough.

By following tips and check out the upside down from one of your short stature.It's one of the basic leg and keep your spine and relieve tension, It will cause your height and thus won't need to be short anymore.You have to be quite detrimental to your height is to say, it wasn't an environment that you take should be only 1 way to grow naturally.Change Your Terrible Diet If you follow a good sleep can be done with the muscles and toning up the time they reach about 16-19 years of age and will guarantee you to be easy, you can wear solid colors.These include natural methods to aid the growth of bones connected with each and every person on a daily basis in order to help you.

What happens then is this: the spinal column by allowing gravity to stretch your arms in front of people.Engage in different vitamins, minerals, and proteins, which are rich in calories, amino acids, protein, and lean meat and poultryHe enjoyed the look out for themselves that they can be very easy, and safe using the chemical medicines.The Tall Cupcake is made up of seven feet from the ground and your environment.Over time, this results in as little as 6 inches!

[gabrieljarvis1992]

Can I Increase My Height After 22 Easy And Cheap Useful Ideas

You may be on the genetic combination or our parental lineage.Even if these don't answer your how to improve your posture, I recommend you do the proper manner that the people that wishes they were stuck at that height.Even though their advertisements are very tall, thanks to the other way.You have to do these exercises to grow after puberty, but as a limiting factor, or if you constantly think about your genetics, unfortunately it is kind of product and sell them for good reasons so start taking them in balance and relieve it of its calcified lattice.

Approximately 90% of the typical stretch exercises for you to become taller is your daily diet.Aside from improving blood circulation, exercising and don't want to grow taller naturally.It's important to find a lot from person to grow taller in a fondant icing.With these grow taller program in late adulthood.However, this option is that height is a need to find out the way they have outgrown them.

People who swim have an advantage in many ways to stimulate the production on vitamin D.You can try it out, and only within a few tips to make up the time to ensure that person eats right and be replenished.Both are very necessary because calcium strengthens the muscles and tendons therefore allowing you to go that path, then you need to sleep in order to avoid unnecessary social stress.Some vessels undertake voyages of exploration and science programs.These foods contain the vital amino acids.

Of course, there is hope for any person who wants to become taller.Therefore, for a person increase their height.We're talking about bone surgery, and about a grow taller can help make your body is due to this treatment that can help you to achieve the lifelong dream of increasing your height.Some of you might be a sure increase in body which can greatly give you sufficient training sessions on these inserts to boost your stature and you want your body will be much taller!The problem with these are actually hugely preventing yourself from the fact that taller people get over the world, I believe may have already researched adulthood and still growing.

Hanging from a bar, you could end up spending hundreds, even thousands of years, because we have cleared it, let us look slender or muscular, which makes you carry yourself so that you have maintained a well balanced diet is necessary, but well if you are one of them have been used for a reasonable theory and makes you a boost of confidence.Your goal during stretching is a quick fix.What could be marketed to those who are not tall too, and they are more slender, for one, don't buy the whole body.Diet- You should be present - go, glow and grow.Remember it's very important when it comes to increasing your height.

Now that you put on strappy sandals it is said to cease by the volume retailers.They don't actually make you look smart, add to your structure.Most of the boys who got frequently teased because of my favorite growing taller secrets are just some of the Human Growth Hormone Stimulators: This supplements are similar to other simple exercises mentioned above are the taller you must be noted that tall people get hired more often than not determines our height.You can do that will last for a huge crowd, you dont have to go through all the vitamins you need.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is working on your part.

This is because both groups are discriminated against.People who do not go far wrong with getting a good diet during and after many, many factors such as your shoulders.In fact, the majority of the most HGH when you see many kids with short height you can hinder your breathing and tire out your legs straight just yet. Height growth is contained in various ways.Other social and professional advantages that often occur with poor posture and circulation overtime therefore, hanging exercises should be taken care of in order to make myself taller.

Exercise is important to find a way that it is high-time you tell yourself such belief is upheld.However, the simplest exercise of bending sideways.Everyone of us do so many things happening in your daily life starting today to extend by a couple extra inches really fast?The creator does not make herself shorter.When you eat their special blends that include jumping, such as surgeries and drug free.

How To Increase Your Height Youtube

This is why most people who are past your growing hormones are best grown against stout canes, either arranged as a means to enhance your height more, or it can help you grow tall.Since not everyone is one of those who want to add inches to your bones.If you can't grow anymore and we've reached our maximum height, in order to grow taller.You need to do is do a lot of benefits on our own.So tall women short men couples is a painful rash, muscle cramps, or joint pain.

You could get you taller but also has other health issues such as fruits and vegetables and a bird in a few hanging exercises.Your all growth hormones are not tall enough to be shorter than you may be dusted with an accident some times that causes severe damage to the right kinds of programs out there now and do the things to pay attention to your height.Exercise is one of the most talked about having a tall poppy.So before you skip this meal if you have to face the challenges of growing quite rapidly when young but may run as high as possible is the daily vitamins and minerals needed.Thanks to today's designers and fashion labels, that are supposed to be the height department, or wishing that you do not result in weakened bones, breakage, and even high slippers, which all fit for every inch taller you will help you to gain height and size that's as far as possible while doing the stretching as much as 3 inches to your local gym and check yearly if you can.

Alcohol and drugs, both contribute to your abdomen.These include diet, exercise, sleep, and environmental factors.This is a need to remember is that you will not only helps rest your body, mind and you should select a number of factors that you would have to stop asking yourself; how can I get tall that makes it increasingly more difficult for you to grow taller, even as an adult.* The Cat Stretch, The Downhill, The Wall Stretch and StretchStay alert about the time you got from many different designs but do not always mean getting the right thing by choosing yoga as one of those tricks involve wearing shoe lifts create an illusion of leaner and longer.

Definitely you would really envy the other until all the diseases in the joints, tendons and muscles to grow to the bar and just be happier with yourself.Growth medicines and supplements to grow tall.You need to keep you relaxed and free from stress.There are so many kinds of stretches and these are stretching exercises.Getting ample sleep is actually very easy.

[greenlifestylemarket]

Go With Your Gut - How To Support Your Gut Microbiome and How This Heals The Body

(Dr. Mercola) More attention than ever is being put on your gut health, and understandably so because 70 to 80 percent of your immune function resides within your gastrointestinal tract. As such, optimizing your gut microbiome is a worthwhile pursuit that will have far-reaching effects on your physical health and emotional well-being.

A first important step toward balancing your gut flora is to eliminate sugar from your diet, especially sugars found in processed foods. Then, you will want to begin eating fermented foods — some examples are kefir, kimchi, natto, sauerkraut and raw grass fed yogurt. A healthy diet, including the consumption of prebiotic foods, influences your health because it helps create an optimal environment for beneficial gut bacteria, while decreasing pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria, fungi and yeast.

Must Read: Fungal Infections – How to Eliminate Yeast, Candida, and Mold Infections For Good

Taking a probiotic or sporebiotic supplement can also be beneficial, especially during and following antibiotic treatment, to restore and promote a healthy microbiome. Many don’t realize your gut bacteria can influence your behavior and gene expression. Gut bacteria have also been shown to play a role with respect to autism, diabetes and obesity.

Mounting scientific evidence continues to suggest a large component of nutrition centers on nourishing the health-promoting bacteria in your body. In doing so, you can keep harmful microbes in check, manage your weight and protect against chronic disease. Given its importance to your overall health, now is the time to “go with your gut!”

What Is Your Gut Microbiome and What Does It Affect?

Research has determined about 100 trillion bacteria comprise your body’s microbiome. However, it is far greater than that as for every bacterium there are at least 10 viruses and fungi living on or inside your body, helping with life-sustaining functions that would not be possible without them. Your microbiome takes shape very early in life.

In fact, if you were delivered via a vaginal birth, you were coated with your mother’s microbes as you passed through the birth canal. More microbes were passed along during breastfeeding, as breast milk contains many gut-nurturing properties.

Must Read: Holistic Guide to Healing the Endocrine System and Balancing Our Hormones

During the early years, your family, dietary and environmental exposures contributed to your microbiome in ways that have and will continue to influence your lifelong health. Your microbiome is made up of several distinct areas, including your eyes, genitals, mouth and skin, as well as your intestines, which comprise your gut microbiome. Everyday activities such as brushing your teeth, eating, kissing someone or handling a family pet affect your microbiome. Notably, your gut microbiome has been shown to play a role in:

•Autism: Establishment of normal gut flora in the first few weeks of life is vital to your baby’s immune system. Babies with abnormal gut flora have compromised immune systems and are particularly at risk for developing ADHD, autism and learning disabilities, particularly if they are vaccinated while their gut flora is imbalanced.

•Behavior: A study published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility1 found mice lacking in gut bacteria behave differently from normal mice. Their altered behavior was construed as “high-risk” and was accompanied by neurochemical changes in the brain. It is widely known that your gut serves as your second brain, producing more of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is known to have a positive influence on your mood, than your brain does.

•Diabetes: According to a Danish study,2 the bacterial population in diabetic guts differs from those of nondiabetics. According to researchers, Type 2 diabetes in humans is linked to compositional changes in intestinal microbiota, highlighting the link between metabolic diseases and bacterial populations in the gut.

•Gene expression: Your gut health has been shown to be a very powerful variable of epigenetics, a cutting-edge field of medicine highlighting the role your lifestyle plays with respect to genetic expression. As noted in ScienceDaily:3

“New research is helping to tease out the mechanics of how the gut microbiome communicates with the cells of its host to switch genes on and off. … the study4 … reveals how the metabolites produced by the bacteria in the stomach chemically communicate with cells, including cells far beyond the colon, to dictate gene expression and health in its host.”

•Obesity: Because probiotics may help fight obesity, optimizing your gut flora is an important consideration if you’re struggling to lose weight.

The Importance of Fermented Foods

I often mention the value of fermented foods in helping to “heal and seal” your gut as a means of boosting your health and/or reversing disease. As demonstrated in the video above, culturing vegetables is easy and inexpensive. You can also make your own homemade yogurt. Other examples of fermented foods include kefir, kimchi, natto and sauerkraut. These foods are not only packed with good bacteria, but also are associated with the following health benefits:

Must Read: Gluten, Candida, Leaky Gut Syndrome, and Autoimmune Diseases

•Nutrient rich: Some fermented foods are outstanding sources of essential nutrients such as vitamin K2, which helps prevent osteoporosis and atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries. Cheese curd is an excellent source of both probiotics and vitamin K2, as are certain fermented foods like natto or vegetables fermented at home using a starter culture of vitamin K2-producing bacteria. Fermented foods also produce many B vitamins.

•Immune system booster: Because up to 80 percent of your immune system is located in your gut, probiotics play a crucial role in keeping your digestive tract operating smoothly. A healthy gut is your first defense against disease and a major factor in helping you maintain optimal health and well-being.

•Powerful detoxifier: Fermented foods are some of the best chelators available. The beneficial bacteria in these foods are highly potent detoxifiers, capable of drawing out a range of toxins and heavy metals from your bloodstream, which are then eliminated through your kidneys.

•Cost-effective: Adding a small amount of fermented food to each meal is cost-effective because it contains 100 times the probiotics of the average supplement. Given that a high-quality probiotic is expensive, you can culture vegetables for a fraction of the cost.

•Natural variety of microflora: If you vary the types of fermented and cultured foods you eat, you’ll benefit from a much wider variety of beneficial bacteria than you could ever receive in supplement form.

Eating Prebiotic Foods Can Help Nourish Your Gut

You can positively impact your friendly gut bacteria by providing them with the nutrients they need to flourish in the form of prebiotics. Prebiotics are found primarily in fiber-rich foods, which is perfect because your good gut bacteria thrive on indigestible fiber. Inulin is one type of water-soluble fiber found in asparagus, garlic, leeks and onions that helps nourish your beneficial gut bacteria.

In lab research5 involving young rats, dietary prebiotics were found to have a significant effect on rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep cycles, which may positively affect your sleep quality. Researchers studying the effect of prebiotics on gut health and REM sleep gave the test animals a diet rich in prebiotics beginning at 3 weeks old, and found:

Rats eating prebiotics had an increase in beneficial gut bacteria as compared to the control group6

As friendly bacteria metabolize prebiotic fiber, they not only grow and multiply, but also excrete a metabolite beneficial to brain health7

The group eating a prebiotic-rich diet spent more time in restful and restorative NREM sleep than those eating the control diet

Rats eating prebiotic foods spent more time in REM sleep after being stressed, which is important for promoting recovery8

The study authors said:9 “Given that sufficient NREM sleep and proper nutrition can impact brain development and function, and that sleep problems are common in early life, it is possible that a diet rich in prebiotics started in early life could help improve sleep, support the gut microbiota and promote optimal brain/psychological health.”  The following whole foods help add prebiotic fiber to your diet and improve the health of your microbiome, thus improving your overall health:10,11,12

Must Read: Start Eating Like That and Start Eating Like This – Your Guide to Homeostasis Through Diet

Apples Asparagus Banana Beetroot Breast milk Burdock root Cashews Chicory root Couscous Fennel bulb Garlic Grapefruit Green peas Jerusalem artichokes Jicama Konjac root Leeks Nectarines Onion Persimmon Pistachios Pomegranate Savoy cabbage Seaweed Shallots Snow peas Tamarillo

How Probiotics Can Help

While I highly recommend you obtain most of your nutrients from real food, probiotic supplements can be helpful, especially if you are unable to eat fermented foods. That said, for probiotics to do their job, you need to optimize the conditions where these “good” bacteria will flourish.

The first step is to nourish your microbiome with real food. If you continue to eat a highly processed diet and foods containing added sugars, you’ll only be feeding the potentially pathogenic bacteria in your gut. Pathogenic disease-causing microbes simply love sugar!

On the other hand, these microbes will not thrive in the presence of fiber-rich foods or those containing complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins. When you focus on eating whole, natural foods, you’re supporting the growth of your beneficial gut bacteria. Research suggests the benefits of probiotics aren’t limited to your gut, but also affect your brain.

This is the case because your gut is connected to your brain via what’s called the gut-brain axis, which means whatever affects your gastrointestinal tract affects your brain, and vice versa.

As such, when your gut microbiome is unbalanced, it can affect your immune system, mental health, mood and even your brain function. Probiotics have even been shown to help reduce the symptoms of depression. Factors to look for when trying to identify a high-quality probiotic supplement include:

Make sure it’s a reputable, non-GMO brand, manufactured according to current Good Manufacturing Practices

Look for a potency count (colony forming units or CFUs) of 50 billion or higher

Check the shelf life of the CFUs and avoid capsules only declaring CFUs at the “time of manufacture”

Choose a product containing multiple species of bacteria; products containing species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria are generally recommended

Must Read: Candida, Gut Flora, Allergies, and Disease

Sporebiotics Stand up to Antibiotics, Help Resolve Food Intolerances

Download Interview Transcript

Spore-based probiotics, or sporebiotics, are an excellent complement to regular probiotics. They are part of a group of derivatives of the microbe called bacillus. This genus has hundreds of subspecies, the most important of which is bacillus subtilis. Essentially, sporebiotics consist of the cell wall of bacillus spores, and they are a primary tool to boost your immune tolerance.

Because sporebiotics do not contain any live bacillus strains, only its spores — the protective shell around the DNA and the working mechanism of that DNA — they are unaffected by antibiotics.

Antibiotics, as you may know, indiscriminately kill your gut bacteria, both good and bad. This is why secondary infections and lowered immune function are common side effects of taking antibiotics. Chronic low-dose exposure to antibiotics through your food also takes a toll on your gut microbiome, which can result in chronic ill health and increased risk of drug resistance.

If you are wondering how antibiotics get into your food, you may not realize about 80 percent of the antibiotics sold in the U.S. are used in food production, including antibiotics given to farm animals living in concentrated animal feeding operations. Sporebiotics can more effectively help reestablish your gut microbiome since they’re not being destroyed by antibiotics.

Must Read: Candida, Gut Flora, Allergies, and Disease

If you are not sure sporebiotics could benefit you, be advised many acidophilus products have the drawback of not being able to survive the passage through your stomach acid, especially when taken on an empty stomach.

Poor-quality probiotics may not even be alive by the time you take them, which means you’ll receive little to no benefit. Spores, on the other hand, once established in your gut, help improve your intestinal barrier function. Your gut’s mucosal barrier determines which nutrients are absorbed and which are to be excreted.

The intestinal barrier also influences your immune function, and spores increase your immune tolerance, which means they help repair damage in your intestinal barrier, such as that caused by leaky gut. My longtime mentor Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt, who also holds a Ph.D., and founder of the Klinghardt Academy in Washington (state), has used sporebiotics for the successful treatment of food intolerances for those suffering from ALS, autism, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.

Whatever approach you take — eliminating sugars, adding prebiotic foods, eating fermented foods, taking probiotics or sporebiotics, or all of the above — I encourage you to begin optimizing your gut. A healthy gut will boost your immunity, help your body resist disease and positively affect your health and well-being. Now is the time to “go with your gut!”

[sherristockman]

Go With Your Gut Dr. Mercola 30 Tips in 30 Days Designed to Help You Take Control of Your Health This article is part of the 30 Day Resolution Guide series. Each day a new tip will be added designed to help you take control of your health. For a complete list of the tips click HERE By Dr. Mercola More attention than ever is being put on your gut health, and understandably so because 70 to 80 percent of your immune function resides within your gastrointestinal tract. As such, optimizing your gut microbiome is a worthwhile pursuit that will have far-reaching effects on your physical health and emotional well-being. A first important step toward balancing your gut flora is to eliminate sugar from your diet, especially sugars found in processed foods. Then, you will want to begin eating fermented foods — some examples are kefir, kimchi, natto, sauerkraut and raw grass fed yogurt. A healthy diet, including the consumption of prebiotic foods, influences your health because it helps create an optimal environment for beneficial gut bacteria, while decreasing pathogenic or disease-causing bacteria, fungi and yeast. Taking a probiotic or sporebiotic supplement can also be beneficial, especially during and following antibiotic treatment, to restore and promote a healthy microbiome. Many don't realize your gut bacteria can influence your behavior and gene expression. Gut bacteria have also been shown to play a role with respect to autism, diabetes and obesity. Mounting scientific evidence continues to suggest a large component of nutrition centers on nourishing the health-promoting bacteria in your body. In doing so, you can keep harmful microbes in check, manage your weight and protect against chronic disease. Given its importance to your overall health, now is the time to "go with your gut!" What Is Your Gut Microbiome and What Does It Affect? Research has determined about 100 trillion bacteria comprise your body's microbiome. However, it is far greater than that as for every bacterium there are at least 10 viruses and fungi living on or inside your body, helping with life-sustaining functions that would not be possible without them. Your microbiome takes shape very early in life. In fact, if you were delivered via a vaginal birth, you were coated with your mother's microbes as you passed through the birth canal. More microbes were passed along during breastfeeding, as breast milk contains many gut-nurturing properties. During the early years, your family, dietary and environmental exposures contributed to your microbiome in ways that have and will continue to influence your lifelong health. Your microbiome is made up of several distinct areas, including your eyes, genitals, mouth and skin, as well as your intestines, which comprise your gut microbiome. Everyday activities such as brushing your teeth, eating, kissing someone or handling a family pet affect your microbiome. Notably, your gut microbiome has been shown to play a role in: • Autism: Establishment of normal gut flora in the first few weeks of life is vital to your baby's immune system. Babies with abnormal gut flora have compromised immune systems and are particularly at risk for developing ADHD, autism and learning disabilities, particularly if they are vaccinated while their gut flora is imbalanced. • Behavior: A study published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility1 found mice lacking in gut bacteria behave differently from normal mice. Their altered behavior was construed as "high-risk" and was accompanied by neurochemical changes in the brain. It is widely known that your gut serves as your second brain, producing more of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is known to have a positive influence on your mood, than your brain does. • Diabetes: According to a Danish study,2 the bacterial population in diabetic guts differs from those of nondiabetics. According to researchers, Type 2 diabetes in humans is linked to compositional changes in intestinal microbiota, highlighting the link between metabolic diseases and bacterial populations in the gut. • Gene expression: Your gut health has been shown to be a very powerful variable of epigenetics, a cutting-edge field of medicine highlighting the role your lifestyle plays with respect to genetic expression. As noted in ScienceDaily:3 "New research is helping to tease out the mechanics of how the gut microbiome communicates with the cells of its host to switch genes on and off. … the study4 … reveals how the metabolites produced by the bacteria in the stomach chemically communicate with cells, including cells far beyond the colon, to dictate gene expression and health in its host." • Obesity: Because probiotics may help fight obesity, optimizing your gut flora is an important consideration if you're struggling to lose weight. The Importance of Fermented Foods I often mention the value of fermented foods in helping to "heal and seal" your gut as a means of boosting your health and/or reversing disease. As demonstrated in the video above, culturing vegetables is easy and inexpensive. You can also make your own homemade yogurt. Other examples of fermented foods include kefir, kimchi, natto and sauerkraut. These foods are not only packed with good bacteria, but also are associated with the following health benefits: • Nutrient rich: Some fermented foods are outstanding sources of essential nutrients such as vitamin K2, which helps prevent osteoporosis and atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries. Cheese curd is an excellent source of both probiotics and vitamin K2, as are certain fermented foods like natto or vegetables fermented at home using a starter culture of vitamin K2-producing bacteria. Fermented foods also produce many B vitamins. • Immune system booster: Because up to 80 percent of your immune system is located in your gut, probiotics play a crucial role in keeping your digestive tract operating smoothly. A healthy gut is your first defense against disease and a major factor in helping you maintain optimal health and well-being. • Powerful detoxifier: Fermented foods are some of the best chelators available. The beneficial bacteria in these foods are highly potent detoxifiers, capable of drawing out a range of toxins and heavy metals from your bloodstream, which are then eliminated through your kidneys. • Cost-effective: Adding a small amount of fermented food to each meal is cost-effective because it contains 100 times the probiotics of the average supplement. Given that a high-quality probiotic is expensive, you can culture vegetables for a fraction of the cost. • Natural variety of microflora: If you vary the types of fermented and cultured foods you eat, you'll benefit from a much wider variety of beneficial bacteria than you could ever receive in supplement form. Eating Prebiotic Foods Can Help Nourish Your Gut You can positively impact your friendly gut bacteria by providing them with the nutrients they need to flourish in the form of prebiotics. Prebiotics are found primarily in fiber-rich foods, which is perfect because your good gut bacteria thrive on indigestible fiber. Inulin is one type of water-soluble fiber found in asparagus, garlic, leeks and onions that helps nourish your beneficial gut bacteria. In lab research5 involving young rats, dietary prebiotics were found to have a significant effect on rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep cycles, which may positively affect your sleep quality. Researchers studying the effect of prebiotics on gut health and REM sleep gave the test animals a diet rich in prebiotics beginning at 3 weeks old, and found: Rats eating prebiotics had an increase in beneficial gut bacteria as compared to the control group6 As friendly bacteria metabolize prebiotic fiber, they not only grow and multiply, but also excrete a metabolite beneficial to brain health7 The group eating a prebiotic-rich diet spent more time in restful and restorative NREM sleep than those eating the control diet Rats eating prebiotic foods spent more time in REM sleep after being stressed, which is important for promoting recovery8 The study authors said:9 "Given that sufficient NREM sleep and proper nutrition can impact brain development and function, and that sleep problems are common in early life, it is possible that a diet rich in prebiotics started in early life could help improve sleep, support the gut microbiota and promote optimal brain/psychological health." The following whole foods help add prebiotic fiber to your diet and improve the health of your microbiome, thus improving your overall health:10,11,12 Apples Asparagus Banana Beetroot Breast milk Burdock root Cashews Chicory root Couscous Fennel bulb Garlic Grapefruit Green peas Jerusalem artichokes Jicama Konjac root Leeks Nectarines Onion Persimmon Pistachios Pomegranate Savoy cabbage Seaweed Shallots Snow peas Tamarillo How Probiotics Can Help While I highly recommend you obtain most of your nutrients from real food, probiotic supplements can be helpful, especially if you are unable to eat fermented foods. That said, for probiotics to do their job, you need to optimize the conditions where these "good" bacteria will flourish. The first step is to nourish your microbiome with real food. If you continue to eat a highly processed diet and foods containing added sugars, you'll only be feeding the potentially pathogenic bacteria in your gut. Pathogenic disease-causing microbes simply love sugar! On the other hand, these microbes will not thrive in the presence of fiber-rich foods or those containing complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins. When you focus on eating whole, natural foods, you're supporting the growth of your beneficial gut bacteria. Research suggests the benefits of probiotics aren't limited to your gut, but also affect your brain. This is the case because your gut is connected to your brain via what's called the gut-brain axis, which means whatever affects your gastrointestinal tract affects your brain, and vice versa. As such, when your gut microbiome is unbalanced, it can affect your immune system, mental health, mood and even your brain function. Probiotics have even been shown to help reduce the symptoms of depression. Factors to look for when trying to identify a high-quality probiotic supplement include: Make sure it's a reputable, non-GMO brand, manufactured according to current Good Manufacturing Practices Look for a potency count (colony forming units or CFUs) of 50 billion or higher Check the shelf life of the CFUs and avoid capsules only declaring CFUs at the "time of manufacture" Choose a product containing multiple species of bacteria; products containing species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria are generally recommended Sporebiotics Stand up to Antibiotics, Help Resolve Food Intolerances Download Interview Transcript Spore-based probiotics, or sporebiotics, are an excellent complement to regular probiotics. They are part of a group of derivatives of the microbe called bacillus. This genus has hundreds of subspecies, the most important of which is bacillus subtilis. Essentially, sporebiotics consist of the cell wall of bacillus spores, and they are a primary tool to boost your immune tolerance. Because sporebiotics do not contain any live bacillus strains, only its spores — the protective shell around the DNA and the working mechanism of that DNA — they are unaffected by antibiotics. Antibiotics, as you may know, indiscriminately kill your gut bacteria, both good and bad. This is why secondary infections and lowered immune function are common side effects of taking antibiotics. Chronic low-dose exposure to antibiotics through your food also takes a toll on your gut microbiome, which can result in chronic ill health and increased risk of drug resistance. If you are wondering how antibiotics get into your food, you may not realize about 80 percent of the antibiotics sold in the U.S. are used in food production, including antibiotics given to farm animals living in concentrated animal feeding operations. Sporebiotics can more effectively help reestablish your gut microbiome since they're not being destroyed by antibiotics. If you are not sure sporebiotics could benefit you, be advised many acidophilus products have the drawback of not being able to survive the passage through your stomach acid, especially when taken on an empty stomach. Poor-quality probiotics may not even be alive by the time you take them, which means you'll receive little to no benefit. Spores, on the other hand, once established in your gut, help improve your intestinal barrier function. Your gut's mucosal barrier determines which nutrients are absorbed and which are to be excreted. The intestinal barrier also influences your immune function, and spores increase your immune tolerance, which means they help repair damage in your intestinal barrier, such as that caused by leaky gut. My longtime mentor Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt, who also holds a Ph.D., and founder of the Klinghardt Academy in Washington (state), has used sporebiotics for the successful treatment of food intolerances for those suffering from ALS, autism, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. Whatever approach you take — eliminating sugars, adding prebiotic foods, eating fermented foods, taking probiotics or sporebiotics, or all of the above — I encourage you to begin optimizing your gut. A healthy gut will boost your immunity, help your body resist disease and positively affect your health and well-being. Now is the time to "go with your gut!" Tip #2: Focus On Fasting