#avoiding spiritual complacency

[eternityinview-posts]

How to Deepen Your Relationship with God

Our world today bombards us with many ideologies, religious beliefs, and practices, not to mention the immensity of choices we face in entertainment and business opportunities. Successfully navigating the course of our lives requires a foundation on which to build our hopes and dreams. That begins with a relationship with the author of our creation, God. When we examine the life of King David,…

[reachexceedinggrasp]

I have a feeling you might relate to this or you might have even related this on your blog already, but I was just thinking of that Ghoul quotation water water everywhere and not a drop to drink

I think probably my favourite, maybe ever, quiet point of characterisation in a sort of villainous or Beast love interest is his or her having a poet's soul... whether that is conscious or unconscious romantic meditation. It's like Kylo musing to Rey when he says 'You have that look in your eyes. From the forest. When you called me a monster' I love that sort of wistful observation, especially because it evokes such potent imagery ('when we fought together in the forest and then you marked yourself on my face'). Or more literally something like Ghoul citing a line of literature, even when none around except for Lucy would know what he's referencing, it's for his own arrestment and amusement, this is how he sees/interacts with the world

I guess in that way, it reveals something new about their perspective on the world, even when they're somebody seemingly cut off from it - monstrous, othered, repellent, ugly - when they're able to articulate a certain beauty which other characters may not remark upon. It's sort of covetous in that sense, but I think it also sort of helps explain what might interest them about a Beauty, after all, there's something they long for and value (spiritual, aesthetic, existential beauty).

I thought you might be able to relate 🥰

Oh, totally. And with Cooper and Ben, specifically, which is a parallel I hadn't actually noticed until you've just pointed it out, we're being shown their sensitivity as characters. Not in the sense of being considerate, but that they're aware and alert to beauty and meaning in the world despite currently occupying a narrative role which might make us think they're simply destructive or nihilistic figures. And despite the cynicism they're both ostensibly espousing.

Cooper quotes or alludes to literature practically constantly relative to how little he speaks, forever knowing people almost certainly won't understand him, and that's especially fascinating because he didn't make those kinds of references in the flashbacks. We could take this in a whole direction about how he created the Ghoul as a character to shield himself from the things he had to do to survive and is living within a meta-narrative deconstructing the reactionary anti-hero who overtook the white hat sheriff he used to play in his movies. The anti-hero he never wanted to be. He makes allusions because his life has become a story he's telling himself to stay sane. He's his own wry Dickensian narrator making asides to an imagined audience about dramatic irony and social commentary.

And an important part of his presentation to others before the war was painting himself as not sophisticated. Just a cowboy and then just a guy who plays a cowboy in the movies. He wants nothing to do with politics either in an interpersonal or broader sense, and disclaims any pretensions to being savvy despite being in a theoretically powerful position as a rich, well-connected film star. I do think he was genuinely naive, but I also think he often played dumb to avoid social conflict. He was complacent and the image he cultivated helped him remain complacent. Obviously he was very willing to be confrontational when he saw wrong or injustice right in front of him (he goes after Bud Askins directly to his face about marines getting killed by shitty equipment, he challenges Moldaver when she calls him out), but pre-bombs he mostly uses his empathic perceptiveness and charisma to keep everyone around him happy.

In the wasteland we often see him doing the opposite and deliberately riling people up in order to gather information and assess or eliminate them as threats, but he's also only gotten better at disarming people when he wants to. As a handsome charming film star he pretended not to know anything, as a scary intimidating monster he pretends he knows everything.

What I'm wondering about here is whether Cooper always had a secret nerdy side and read all the classics as a teenager or perhaps while waiting on sets when he was working as a stuntman, or whether he wanted to fit in when he started to make it in Hollywood and so tried to become cultured before realising that wasn't what anyone wanted from him. Or if he just spent 200 years alone and read anything he could find as a way to cling to his humanity. We know he was at least a bit intellectually curious before the war, because of his reading and retaining some article about studies on torture.

But YES, him quoting poetry and being so interested and insightful about Lucy, specifically is a huge part of how he's framed as a romantic figure. And he's already by far the most romantic figure in the show. If it were solely about his tragedy, you'd think they would emphasise the contrast between his pre-fallen and post-fallen state by stripping him of his heroic trappings, but they don't. He's actually more romantic post-'curse'.

It also gets me because he's an extremely smart, socially adept person who doesn't let others see him for who he really is both consciously and unconsciously on multiple levels and that layers of identity shit is my crack. He was a profoundly honest man who thought he was simple, but actually he was a glorious maze of contradiction and complexity waiting to happen who has now come into his own as a master manipulator.

[arcanareads]

What cards define Elain and Lucien individually and as a possible couple?

The cards and I thank you for your question!

What cards define Elain: queen of wands sideways, 9 of pentacles sideways, 7 of wands sideways, king of pentacles, 10 of pentacles, page of pentacles, 8 of cups

What cards define Lucien: page of swords reversed, the high priestess, king of cups reversed, 6 of swords sideways, knight of cups sideways, ace of swords sideways, 2 of cups sideways

What cards define Elucien: death sideways, 9 of cups, king of swords, 6 of pentacles, 3 of cups reversed

Queen of wands sideways: upright this card often appears as someone bold, fearless, and determined who appreciates the potential each journey offers and takes the opportunity to learn something new about themselves with each challenge. With a taste for nothing but the best, this person uses their creativity and quick-wit to discern the finer things in life

Reversed this card represents someone who is lacking confidence and feeling scared that they will never live up to the potential they once felt was possible. This card encourages you to look within and ask yourself if fear is holding you back

9 of pentacles sideways: upright, this card can represent the near completion of a goal or objective that will be successful once finished. It can also signal a life of comfort and wealth, both emotionally and materially

Reversed this card warns of financial loss due to poor decisions. You may have hit a roadblock or expect to maintain a higher standard of living without actually putting in any effort to achieve it

7 of wands sideways: upright this card is a reminder that even though you've made it, don't become too complacent because there will always be those who think your success should be theirs. Remain confident and have courage when facing challenges. Being at the top won't always be easy but it will be worth it

Reversed this card can indicate a time of lost confidence and feeling too weak to defend yourself. You may back down simply to avoid conflict. This card encourages you to rediscover your confidence and rebuild your self-esteem

King of pentacles: this card encourages you to live a life of determination and grace and to have a good heart. Doing this will allow you to live an abundant life.

10 of pentacles: this card signals a time of security and protection and brings a message that your hard work and optimism can create a stable and secure future, a future that will serve as the foundation on which to build your dreams

Page of pentacles: this card tells you that in order to achieve the success you want, you will need to spend time developing a clear view and preparing for wherever the road may lead. With this skill, you will be able to achieve all your desires

8 of cups: this card encourages you to look inward to discover what you want out of life and what is important to you. It will take strength to let go and walk away, but doing so may be necessary to achieve true happiness

Page of swords reversed: this card represents someone who is all talk but doesn't have the experience to back it up. It can also represent someone who jumps into things too quickly, without doing the proper research, and as a result, energy is wasted

The high priestess: this card represents the intuitive power of the spiritual unconscious. The high priestess brings divine knowledge, ready to deliver the answers you seek through dreams and symbols. Pay attention

King of cups reversed: this card may warn that you are being manipulated or you are using emotions as a form of blackmail. This card encourages you to examine how your feelings and interactions affect the situation

6 of swords sideways: this card denotes a time that will require you to cut your losses and begin anew. The decision will not be easy to make, and there may be feelings of regret, but once the journey is complete, you will see that the sacrifice was worth it. Focusing on new opportunities instead of your loss will help ease you through the transition

Reversed this card indicates that you are reluctant and unprepared to commit to change. You may be holding onto habits of the past that stop you from fully moving on

Knight of cups sideways: this card represents a person of creativity and intuition, but there is also a tendency to get wrapped up in dreams. This person may appear in your dreams or thoughts, so pay attention and remember the messages they deliver

Reversed, this card represents someone who is overly emotional and may jump to conclusions without having all the facts. This card can also represent a relationship that has lost its creative spark and become mundane

Ace of swords sideways: upright this card represents a time of ideas and problem solving. Whatever you do, you will do it with passion and purpose

Reversed this card suggests you are having a difficult time completing a task or project due to a lack of vision

2 of cups sideways: upright this card can represent a new romantic relationship. It can also signify a new business partnership. Whether romantic or platonic, this pair is balanced, equally satisfied, and shares a unified vision.

Reversed thus card signals that you may be finding it difficult to agree with your partner. There may be a loss of respect or imbalance in power that has caused resentment

Death sideways: upright this card is a symbol of transformation and comes with a warning. You must be willing to sacrifice the part of yourself that holds you back. If not, you will feel pain and discomfort in the future. This card signals profound change that will most likely be positive, so long as you allow the change to take place without fear of the unknown weighing you down

Reversed this card suggests that you are resisting change and holding onto behaviors and/or patterns that prevent your growth. Examine the habits that are preventing you from reaching your full potential

9 of cups: this card brings joy, abundance, and a wish fulfilled. Enjoy your gains, you've earned them

King of swords: this card brings a clear and prudent vision of success to situations and may come in the form of a person who is a trusted advisor or you yourself may be the reliable source of information that helps others

6 of pentacles: this card denotes a time of receiving or offering help with strings attached

3 of cups reversed: this card may represent a time when you feel your voice isn't being heard or you are being bullied by a group. This is a sign to reconnect with faithful friends who may have drifted away

[1solone]

Morpheus' famous lines in The Matrix about the blue pill and the red pill are emblematic of a much deeper and more profound choice that each individual faces in life—the choice between comfortable ignorance and the often unsettling truth. When Morpheus offers Neo the choice between the blue pill and the red pill, he is not just offering two simple objects but two radically different paths of existence.

Morpheus' Words on the Blue Pill

Morpheus says to Neo:

"You take the blue pill—the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill—you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes."

This moment is pivotal because it encapsulates the essence of the human condition: the choice between remaining within the confines of an illusory world, one that is comfortable, familiar, and seemingly safe, or daring to venture into the unknown, where truth, no matter how harsh or challenging, awaits.

The Profound Significance of the Blue Pill

The blue pill symbolizes a choice to remain within the matrix of illusions—a construct of lies, half-truths, and deceptions that create a false sense of security. Those who choose the blue pill willingly accept the reality presented to them, preferring the comfort of ignorance over the potential discomfort of truth. The blue pill represents:

Comfort Over Truth: The blue pill offers a life free from the pain of questioning, of challenging the status quo. It allows one to continue living in a bubble, where difficult truths are avoided, and uncomfortable realities are dismissed. It is the easier path, one where cognitive dissonance is minimized, and the individual can remain in a state of blissful unawareness.

Submission to the Illusion: Taking the blue pill is a form of surrender. It is an acceptance of the narratives imposed by external forces, whether they be societal norms, media influences, or political agendas. It signifies a relinquishing of one's autonomy and a submission to the control of those who construct the illusion.

A Rejection of Growth: Choosing the blue pill is also a rejection of personal and spiritual growth. Growth often comes through facing challenges, through questioning the world around us, and through embracing the unknown. The blue pill, in contrast, is a rejection of this journey—a refusal to grow, to evolve, and to seek a deeper understanding of existence.

Fear of the Unknown: The decision to take the blue pill is often driven by fear—the fear of what lies beyond the veil of illusion. The fear of facing a reality that might be harsh, unforgiving, or profoundly different from the comfortable narrative that has been constructed. This fear paralyzes the individual, keeping them locked in a state of complacency.

Those Who Choose the Blue Pill

Individuals who choose the blue pill are often those who are content with the surface level of life. They may fear the disruption of their worldview or the consequences of challenging deeply held beliefs. These individuals may:

Cling to Familiarity: They are drawn to the safety of what is known, what is predictable. They prefer the comfort of routine and the reassurance of societal validation over the uncertainty that comes with questioning the nature of reality.

Avoid Responsibility: The blue pill represents an avoidance of the responsibility that comes with knowledge. To see the world as it truly is requires action, it demands a response. Those who choose the blue pill are often unwilling to take on this responsibility, preferring instead to remain passive observers of life.

Live Within Boundaries: The blue pill takers live within the confines of the system, accepting the limitations imposed upon them. They do not seek to transcend these boundaries, nor do they wish to explore what lies beyond. Their lives are characterized by conformity and adherence to the prescribed narratives.

Reject the Call to Awakening: The choice of the blue pill is a rejection of the call to awakening. It is a refusal to engage in the journey of self-discovery, to explore the deeper mysteries of life, and to seek a higher truth. It is a denial of the spiritual quest that leads to enlightenment.

The Deeper Implications

The choice between the blue pill and the red pill is not just a fictional concept; it is a metaphor for the choices we all face in our lives. Do we choose to remain asleep, accepting the comforting lies that we are fed, or do we awaken to the sometimes harsh, yet liberating truth?

In Hermetic philosophy, this choice is akin to the decision to remain bound by the material world, with its illusions and distractions, or to seek the divine truth, which lies beyond the veil of appearances. The blue pill is the path of ignorance, leading to a life lived on the surface, where one is controlled by external forces and never truly knows themselves or the world.

For those who choose the blue pill, life may seem easier, but it is a life lived in shadows, a life where the true light of understanding never penetrates. It is a life of perpetual sleepwalking, where the deeper mysteries of existence remain forever hidden, and where the soul remains trapped in the prison of the matrix.

In conclusion, the blue pill represents more than just a simple choice—it symbolizes the decision to remain in darkness, to accept the illusion, and to reject the profound truth that lies beyond. It is a decision that many make, whether consciously or unconsciously, every day. Yet, for those who dare to take the red pill, who choose to awaken and see the world as it truly is, a path of profound discovery and liberation awaits. The choice is always ours, and in that choice lies the power to shape our reality.

[porcyworld]

my short treatise on a world with a complacent god

“God is dead,” “God has left us,” “God isn’t real.” He is dead because we killed him, he has left us because we disappointed him, and he isn’t real because of course not. All these answers betray the existential horror of disappointment and being forsaken by our “father.” They call him that because a “mother,” couldn’t bring down a plague or let loose locusts upon the land, he is a “father” because you can always disappoint your father. If god is dead, gone, or nonexistent then why does it matter? Why do we care? You can’t revive what has been stamped out in the hearts of people, nor bring back someone who left of their own will. The truly terrifying answer would be that god is here. Forget inimical beings, our god is a complacent one, a nescient one. One that created man, the world, and the heavens, and one that lost control. Forget the concepts of “punishment,” and “damnation,” because he gave us agency and temptation. God is here and has lost the brakes. No punishment works, we have cured the plague, mastered the elements, mastered the mechanics of which he used to exact dominance over men. Prometheus was punished because he gave man power over god. Fire represents knowledge of course, but it also represents the consuming desire of curiosity. Own fire is owning the ability to cast back the shadows in the natural world, it is own the means to peel back the curtains on god's stage. God is here and has no control over man.

This being the case,  we are doomed to the same struggle since Adam and Eve. We are to fight over the sins god has imbued into us, doomed to labor over the morality found in the concept of “damnation” promised to us. The unfortunate reality is that living in a complacent gods world does not mean we should surrender to anarchy. The truth is we have built our own gods to take his place. We have built a society on the theoretical morals god gave us, and evolved them. This is what Nietzsche and Kirkegard got wrong. We couldn’t kill god if we tried, not through faithlessness anyway. For god is a man alone, as we are made in his image, god is human. His is not a benevolent force, he is a man, a slave to a runaway creation. 

Those who believe in a god who is punitive and capable of delivering eternal punishment understand the concept of constant surveillance. In a theological sense, surveillance is comforting because it means he is watching, he is watching you complete good deeds and avoid bad ones. It is consequential morality, you do good, you go to heaven, bad, hell. The reason our modern society is so willing to embrace entropy is because of the nature of our neon god. We as modern and faithless human beings do not understand the concept of theological surveillance because eternal punishment does not exist. Unfortunately nothing lies after death, and therefore the only punishment that does exist is temporary mortal punishment, one we can bear until it is all over. Our neon, human god, exists in security cameras and our fabricated justice systems. Judges are our neon saints and jurors our neon angels. We very much have a handle on our means of spiritual and physical flagellation, our temporary and mortal justice is unfortunately too humanely lenient. Prosecution represents the true and moral force of justice, the defense represents our human advocate. God can weigh the measure of a heart on a scale while humans can only measure our humanity. Us godless bastards have to rely on our confidence in fellow men, we have to rely on a neon faith.

The decent reason there is nothing after death in a world with a complacent god is how could he fairly measure concepts like “good” and “bad”? Goodness and badness no longer follows the same rules as 0 AD. An infinitely wise and fair being could not base someone's entrance into heaven on “loving thy neighbor” or having a pure heart, free of sin, because put simply, no one cares anymore. Sin has no bearing on modern decision making because there is no faith anymore. Nietzsche was right that science and education has killed faith, there is no reason to believe in a father who we no longer need. We don’t have to pray for rain, for a good harvest, or good health anymore. We have grown up, and left the proverbial nest. By that realization, we have nothing to return to. The gate of heaven has been closed because we chose to leave, and shut it behind us. 

[metaphysicalpistolsoraclemine]

NEW AGE ASTRAL BLISS

New Age astral bliss narratives are filled with fantastical illusions, wishful and magical thinking, self-deception and escapist fantasies of the rainbows and butterflies outlook on life that appear to be like a Disney movie. Many times, severely emotionally wounded people are led into the New Age, where they are not interested in healing themselves or taking responsibility for their behaviors. They seek instead, further excuses to continue negative behaviors and being deceptive to others, in an accepted social setting. To have better discernment, the most common New Age Astral bliss profiles may include demonstrated qualities such as:

Complacency, carelessness, demonstrating a lack of responsibility and cluelessness towards others

Easily mentally confused and overwhelmed, vacant eyes and expression, incoherent and fractured communication

Drug like ecstasy, euphoria to sedative state when in astral frequency transmissions from "Guru"

Addictive tendencies to recreate the astral bliss filled state over and over again

Projected spiritual fantasies on others, accusing others of being dark, prone to emotional tantrums, acts as the chaos-disruptor

Ungrounded in body therefore prone to self-delusions, naïve with poor decision making

May be prone to emotional hysteria and archetypes of drama (rolling around on the ground crying, screaming, going into primal or fetal states when in groups)

Lack of discernment in environmental energies, places trust in untrustworthy people and highly corrupted organizations

Auric disconnections in one or more layers (i.e. body and heart disconnected)

No boundaries and open to whatever may come in the astral, covered with energy parasites

Rejects existence of pain and fear when confronted by it, cannot tell dark from light

Says everyone is "one" and so they can take whatever you have, because its theirs already

Tends to lack discipline or self-responsibility, may confuse drug like states and addictive states with higher consciousness state, retraumatizes wounds and fragments through drug use in shamanic journeying

Holier than thou with prideful self-importance, declares they are on a spiritual mission and that gives them permission to treat others badly

Hedonistic or bohemian personality, a total sensualist nature, following the highest excitement (Do what thou wilt)

Alien implanted, unaware of the existence of implants, mind control or negative ego

Unwilling to confront or face negativity or bad behaviors for fear of being labeled judgmental

Low ethical behavior, holds grudges, easily puts down others and engages in malicious gossip

These naïve astral visions propagated by the New Age hijack have filled people’s minds with denial, one of the most potent forms of fear-based programming. Denying the nature of reality and denying the painful truth by remaining in escapism and complacency by avoiding self-responsibility. These disempowering and negative qualities have come to be the primary factors that have dominated the acceptable narratives that are included in the New Age movement as group think. Some of the New Age material has promoted shocking emotional damage to people in this way, by positively rewarding negative behaviors and unethical conduct such as spiritual bypassing, as acceptable norms in the management of the spiritual community.

There is a delusional psychosis that is spread and promoted to shape and reinforce very negative behavior as acceptable behavior in some of the New Age circles, in order to groom these people as hosts and sleepers for serving the Thothian Luciferians.

The New Age hijack is what has been created in groups who refuse to grow up, or to become accountable for their behaviors and responsible for their lives, thus, committing to a personal value system that evolves into spiritual maturity and self-integrity.

In this context of a staged military style takeover, the general dissemination of New Age, Ascension or Disclosure information that is given out by the mind control handlers is used to take complete control over assigning approved topics and unapproved topics. Some of these fringe topics are being made increasingly acceptable in the mainstream, gaining larger audiences from massively growing commercial industries, as New Age themes have been parlayed into multiple million-dollar branding opportunities.

As an example, after the success of a hit televised show, it is now acceptable to talk about Ancient Aliens that were involved in human history a few thousand years ago, but it remains unacceptable to talk about aliens here on earth with us right now.

[creatively-cosmic]

Hi there!

Just wanted to say that I really like your artwork and am a fan of the Missing Numbers stuff. The way the characters are made/portrayed has me in a chokehold ngl. (Fire and Blue are probably my favorite characters, they look really cool-)

But I was curious/had a question about Fire. The scar he has on his chest, the one surrounded by the rings of Arceus: How did he get it? And because it’s been said that Fire is too important to die: does Arceus heal all of Fire’s wounds or just the fatal ones?

That is all though! Have a good morning/afternoon/evening wherever you are!

first of all THANK YOU SO MUCH??? im so glad you like this insane little story of ours!!! hearing ppl really do care about it only motivates us more to work on it!!

As for your questions, these are very fun ones. You're asking all the right things.

(This got long.)

First: The Scar.

The scar over his heart is a very spiritual one. The rings are a part of it, in fact, not just markings.

Fire was made to be the perfect replacement. A flawless player avatar who was only that, and nothing more. A body to be inhabited, controled, and a face to be remembered and idolized. When a player controls this avatar, especially in Pokemon, it doesn't have any free will of its own. Isn't supposed to. Not allowed to think or feel. Just a window into the world through which you experience it.

Extra care was put into making him fit this, as perhaps the most important "avatar" in the Almighty's eyes, and especially after the critical failure that was Glitchy, who's emotions and freedom led him to not only his demise, but mass corruption of the old world that required a total overwrite.

... When a human is made, it is only natural that they've a heart and soul to them. Free will is something that defines humanity. For this man, however, that was not an option.

To get to the point: The scar is where a hand of the Almighty cut his heart from his chest. His mind was also taken from him- did you notice the Golden scar on his neck?

It wasn't always like this. He was made meek on purpose. Quiet. Complacent. Cold. But it was soon proven by another boy's meddling that not a single risk could be taken, leading to his first death at the hands of frostbite. And the subsequent, forced removal of his free will.

So, he was left after with no heart to feel, and no head to think with. ...That was the plan, at least. But time has a funny way of healing all wounds. Reds have always had a funny way of surpassing expectations, for better or for worse.

Second: The Deaths.

Death is a recurring thing in Missing Numbers- the answer to how Fire survives answers how everyone survives, honestly. It all comes down to the fact that the world of Pokemon is a game. And what do you do, when something goes wrong in a game? When you lose? When you die? And, what does the game do when it breaks? How does it handle that? When it's overwhelmed by impossible demands?

Reset. Restart. Try again.

Of course, you, the player, will remember what happened outside of the resets. That's how you learn, and do better, to avoid losing again. You have a different, higher perspective.

The characters within aren't supposed to remember, though. You can rewind, step back, redo things as much as you need- they'll always be the exact same. Unknowing, unaffected. So when Fire dies? When Blue dies? Those two particularly are in a vicious cycle, where things are always put right back to before they went wrong, but...

A big part of the horror aspect of Missing Numbers is breaking this world enough, that the beings inside of the game see past the veil.

The main four we post about within this story have all already had their perspectives shattered to see beyond that. So even if they can't comprehend it or understand why this happens, they remember it. The more it happens, the more powerless you feel. The more desperate you get for your actions to hold meaning. The more drastic the measures you take will become.

Trying over and over and over and over

and over and over and over and over

and over and over and over and over

and over and over and over and over

and over again.

[saikenakoego]

And I continue again with another OC ask thing that nobody but myself asked.

Because it's fun!

This time again with Sammy, the walking contradiction! A vampire hunter turned vampire against her will!

Because I love her--

vvvvvvvvvvvvvvv This gal vvvvvvvvvvvvvvvv

1. Are you superstitious?

SM: That would mean putting my fate in the hands of someone or something else. No.

2. Would you be phased about walking under a ladder?

SM: No.

3. What would you do if a black cat crossed your path?

SM: ...Nothing? What does it matter?

4. How would you react if you broke a mirror?

SM: Depends on who it belonged to.

5. Do you avoid any certain number? If so, which ones? Why?

SM: Not a fan of 7... dunno why. It makes me mad.

6. What's your favorite cryptid?

SM: If there's any that doesn't mess with people, then that one. Otherwise, I hate all of 'em.

7. Would you ever go cryptid hunting? If so, why?

SM: ...You're asking me? The vampire hunter? Gee, I wonder why I do it?!

8. What do you think about ghosts?

SM: Depends on the type. Some are tragic, others not so much.

SM: Johnny knows more about this kind of stuff. I just do my job.

9. Have you ever seen a ghost?

SM: ...What're ya, a cop? Not telling.

10. Have you ever gone ghost hunting? If so, why?

SM: ...Yes, I have. Because it's kind of necessary for me-- us. Its annoying that I have to state that out loud, thought it'd be obvious.

11. What do you think about magic? Are you generally in favor or against it?

SM: Cheating. Dirty tricks for cowards that can't do anything by themselves. It corrupts the mind and leads you to become complacent. That's why THEY use it.

12. Do you know any magic? If so, is it a natural or learned skill?

SM: Even if I know it, that doesn't mean I'd use it. Or want to use it. Much rather put my trust in steel and silver.

13. What would you say would be your favorite use of magic?

SM: The only good use of magic is keeping it locked up.

14. Have you ever made a deal with a magical or supernatural entity?

SM: IT. WAS. NOT. A DEAL.

15. What form would your familiar take?

SM: A grenade. So I can blow it up alongside my target, and never see it again.

16. Have you ever traveled into the past, and so, what did you change?

SM: No. If only...

17. Have you ever traveled into the future, and if so, how was it like?

SM: No. The only future I have is in the grave, once this is all over.

18. Have you ever had a prophetic vision or dream, and if so, what was it like?

SM: None that I recall.

19. Have you ever had an astral projection or out of body experience?

SM: No. Johnny says he has though, and with how weird that kid is, its probably true.

20. Have you ever visited another plane of reality or existence, and if so, what was it like?

SM: No.

21. Have you ever attended a seance or used a ouija board? What happened?

SM: I think I did it once with my old friends. The details are... blurry, though.

22. Do you keep things like salt, garlic or silver on hand for defensive purposes?

SM: Salt is more Johnny's thing. Says it's spiritual protection or something. Can never go wrong with some silver, though. Punch a good hole into a bloodsucker with ease. The garlic thing though? Totally fake. If its not blood, they can't smell it.

23. Have you ever cleansed your surroundings with sage or holy water?

SM: Again, more Johnny's thing. I can't even stand the thought of holy water.

24. Do you believe in the existence of extraterrestrials? If so, why?

SM: I didn't believe Johnny at first, but then I saw them.

25. Do you believe in any conspiracy theories? And if so, which ones and why?

SM: When you're unaware of what's goin' on behind the curtain, it's easy to discard any theory as baloney. Take a peek, and you'll never doubt again.

26. What would you do if you came face to face with a rabid zombie?

SM: Same as I do with any bloodsucker. Fill it with silver, then tear it apart limb by limb. My only regret would be not being able to make it suffer more.

27. Would you allow a vampire into your home?

SM: My father did. Once.

28. Have you ever witnessed a werewolf transformation?

SM: Yeah. It was like watching vampirification take place in the span of a couple of seconds.

29. How likely is it that you would be charmed and fall prey to mermaids?

SM: Null. Flesheaters are the same as bloodsuckers. No mercy for either.

30. What supernatural creature would you most prefer to be?

SM: Anything else, but this.

you: me: me: here’s a weird oc ask meme involving various mysterious, supernatural, and paranormal subjects that you can fill out on your own or with the help of your followers 👽✌

(01) Is your OC superstitious? (02) Would your OC be phased about walking under a ladder? (03) What would your OC do if a black cat crossed their path? (04) How would your OC react if they broke a mirror? (05) Does your OC avoid any certain numbers? If so, which ones, and why?

(06) What is your OC’s favorite cryptid? (07) Would your OC ever go cryptid hunting? Why or why not? (08) What does your OC think about ghosts? (09) Has your OC ever seen a ghost? (10) Would your OC ever go ghost hunting? Why or why not?

(11) What does your OC think about magic? Is your OC generally for or against magic? (12) Does your OC know any magic? If so, is it a natural talent or a learned skill? (13) What would your OC say would be their favorite use for magic? (14) Has/would your OC ever made a deal with a magical or supernatural entity? (15) What form does/would your OC’s familiar take?

(16) Has your OC ever traveled into the past? If so, did they change anything? (17) Has your OC ever traveled into the future? If so, what was it like? (18) Has your OC ever had a prophetic vision or dream? If so, what did they see? (19) Has your OC ever had an out of body experience or astral projected? (20) Has your OC ever visited another plane of reality or existence? If so, was it by choice?

(21) Has your OC ever attended a seance or used a ouiji board? What happened? (22) Does your OC keep things like salt, garlic, or silver on hand for defensive purposes? (23) Has your OC ever cleansed their surroundings with things like sage or holy water? (24) Does your OC believe in the existence of extraterrestrials? Why or why not? (25) Does your OC believe any conspiracy theories? If so, which ones, and why?

(26) What would your OC do if they were face to face with a rabid zombie? (27) Would your OC allow a vampire into their home? (28) Has your OC ever witnessed a werewolf transformation? (29) How likely is it that your OC would be charmed by and fall prey to mermaids? (30) What supernatural creature would your OC most prefer to be?

[yhwhrulz]

The Way by Kevin Pauley

Talk, Talk, Talk Date Posted: February 18, 2025

Just as the body is dead without a spirit, so also faith is dead without good deeds. – Js. 2:26

Nehemiah had a great job. He worked for the king and got to eat like one. He had an easy job and didn’t particularly suffer from any want or persecution. But he got a burden for Jerusalem. He prayed and prayed and the burden only became greater. Finally, he did something about it. It was risky. It was foolhardy. It was downright foolish. But God answered amazingly and provided.

Nehemiah was able to go to Jerusalem and start building. The book of Nehemiah is filled with his prayers. But after his prayers, Nehemiah worked. He pushed, he bullied, he dictated, he led, he rewarded. He did whatever it took to get the job done. I like the verse in Nehemiah 4:9 that says that he prayed to God and posted guards. He relied on God to take care of the stuff he, as a mere mortal, could not foresee. He did whatever he could, not allowing his spirituality to become an excuse for laziness.

Never let your prayer life become an excuse for laziness. Prayer is supposed to be a goad to action, a call to arms, not a lullaby. Too many times I have found myself complacent in my prayer life. I listen to someone’s heartache and smugly tell them, “I��ll pray for you.” That’s great! But it’s not everything. James puts it this way: “What’s the use of saying you have faith if you don’t prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can’t save anyone. Suppose you see a brother or sister who needs food or clothing, and you say, ‘Well, good-bye and God bless you; stay warm and eat well.’ – but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?” (Js. 2:14-16). What good indeed! I don’t know about you, but if I were hungry, I’d just as soon you fed me as prayed that I be fed.

Nehemiah was busy working on the walls that would defend Jerusalem. Some men (who didn’t like the building committee’s decisions) were trying to delay him. They came to talk, they said. “Let’s discuss the environmental impact of your construction site. Let’s discuss new and better ways of dealing with your logistical problems.” They wanted to keep talking as long as there was no actual building going on. We often find people like that in our lives. They want to talk about missions, about evangelism, and about world hunger. They want to talk about spirituality and the Bible. Talk, talk, talk! But where’s the action? Give them the same answer Nehemiah did. “I cannot come down for I am in the middle of a great work.” Don’t let your praying, or your conversation become a way of avoiding the work.

Copyright Statement 'The Way' Copyright 2006-2025 © Kevin Pauley 'The Way' articles may be reproduced in whole under the following provisions: 1) A proper credit must be given to the author at the end of each story, along with their complete bio and a link to https://www.liveasif.org/subscription-lists/the-way.html 2) 'The Way' content may not be arranged or "mirrored" as a competitive online service.

[holyreadsblogs]

The Hidden Dangers of ‘Almost Christianity’ and How to Avoid Them

"Almost Christianity" seems like a real dedication to those beginning to learn. But it presents the illusion of faith without asking for the sacrifices necessary for actual spiritual development. Many people unintentionally fit this pattern. Although most people identify with Christianity, only a few follow what is Christian. Knowing the little traps of superficial faith will enable Christians to welcome a closer relationship with God. Insights from works like the C S Lewis Screwtape Letters Summary often highlight how subtle temptations can lead to shallow faith.

The Delusion of Rituals Over Transformation

Inadequate faith lives off appearances. People might join groups and events or even offer their time. Still, their inner life usually stays the same. Though many Christians say their basis is faith, less than one in ten actively study scriptures or other disciplines. This disconnects lowers faith to only outward behavior.

Distractions That Slink Through Faith Quietly

Modern distractions have a simple way of undermining belief. Everyday life revolves around screens, and real work keeps mounting up. The questions of the mind are usually overlooked. Studies show that most people spend six hours on devices, leaving little room for spiritual practices. These distractions gradually weaken faith. Hearing God's voice is more difficult in a noisy life.

The Threats of Solitary Faith

Faith pursued alone presents special difficulties. Many people nowadays are adopting what a spiritual attitude. These people substitute private rituals for fellowship, which can result in self-centered spirituality. Without a common link, faith runs the danger of losing its roots.

Path to Enhanced Belief

Understanding these hazards lets one open the path to significant transformation. Scheduling daily time for deliberate prayer can inspire passion again. Examining ideas through summaries of great Christian works provides direction for spiritual rejuvenation. These summaries reduce difficult ideas into straightforward but significant truths.

Real faith needs honest self-reflection while making effort and sacrifice. Stay away from the dangers of "almost Christianity" using deliberate action. Deliberate decisions and behaviors produce spiritual development.

About Holy Reads:

Holy Reads offers a vast collection of Christian book summaries, including bestselling faith-based literature. The material is available in written, audio, and video formats. Reviews like Screwtape Letters book review from Holy Reads often offer practical steps to combat spiritual complacency and reignite commitment. Check out their website now.

Get started today by visiting https://www.holyreads.blog/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/3CKUNbw

[lifechanyuan]

The Many Benefits of Knowing About the Afterlife

Xuefeng

(Translation edited by Qinyou)

There is a story about two like-minded explorers on an adventure in a desert. After losing their way, they found that the water they carried was only enough to sustain them for half a day. They were left with a dilemma: they could either share the remaining water and eventually perish together, or one person could stay behind while the other took all the water to search for a way out and find a new water source, promising to return for the one who stayed.

Since death seemed inevitable, they decided to take a slim chance at survival. One person stayed behind and the gun was left with him. They agreed that the one who stayed would fire the gun every two hours to help the other person determine their direction and eventually find him.

At first, the person who stayed behind still had hope. He lay in a sandpit and fired the gun every two hours, but each time he was met with endless silence. After four shots, his spirit was on the brink of collapse, with only one bullet left. His thoughts wandered to his home and loved ones, and an overwhelming sense of helplessness seized his heart. How he longed to live!

However, he thought he was being "rational." He believed his companion would not return. If he fired the last shot into the air, he would eventually die of thirst. He did not want to endure such suffering, so he "bravely" placed the gun to his head and fired, ending his precious life.

Half an hour later, his companion, carrying enough water, found him, guided by the sound of the final gunshot. A tragedy that could have been avoided occurred because the one left behind could not see what the future held. If he had known that his companion had already found water and was on his way back, the tragedy would not have happened.

Similar tragedies happen to humans every day, particularly to those who, under the guise of "rationality," believe there is no afterlife and hold no hope for it.

Whether from logical reasoning, global evidence proving the existence of an afterlife, the teachings of Jesus and Buddha, or the direct visions of those with spiritual insight, it is clear that LIFE indeed continues beyond death. The main reason most people do not believe in the afterlife is that they are overly "rational."

Clearly, the companion was coming with water, but the person left in the desert could not see it. Because he could not see it, he "rationally" refused to believe it. Isn't this a tragedy?

If we do not believe in an afterlife, then our only choice is to make the most of this life, to strive and toil in the present. If life has no afterlife, then all morality is hypocritical. Whoever can live better than others is deemed successful. In this view, fighting, robbing, oppressing, and coercion become justified. It becomes a matter of survival of the fittest; the successful are heroes, the failures are fools. It is about who is more cunning, who can outwit whom: "the victor becomes the king; the defeated, a bandit." What use is there for conscience? What use for morality?

If we do not believe in an afterlife, then in times of success, one might become complacent, arrogant, and lawless; in times of failure, one might blame the heavens, the earth, and their parents, becoming irritable and hostile towards society and nature. When all other options are exhausted, the only path left may be to point the gun at one's own head and pull the trigger, ending one's life.

However, if we understand that life has an afterlife, we can leisurely enjoy life, whether this life is marked by success or failure. This life is merely one journey in the continuum of LIFE. Why be overly concerned? In the end, heroes and fools alike are reduced to dust, leaving behind just a mound of dirt covered by grass, " — only LIFE continues to move forward.

If we know there is an afterlife, we will not be distracted by fleeting illusions, but will view life as a process of profound transformation, focusing on how to shape a better future for our LIFE.

A life with hope and a life without it are fundamentally different. Those who do not acknowledge an afterlife face only a dead end, without hope. Facing death, they are left with helplessness and endless fear. But those who believe in the afterlife see a brighter future. They face death calmly, gracefully, and with optimism. Such a life is beyond the reach of those who live merely to survive.

Some say: "Even if there is an afterlife, we do not know it in this life, so it has no meaning for the living. It is better to live each day as it comes and make the most of it."

Without hope or faith in an afterlife, how can we live well? Even birds seem to live more joyfully than humans. Are we to live like animals?

A person who believes in the afterlife has a fundamentally different inner world than one who does not. Noble ideals and the highest moral values are pursued and upheld by those who firmly believe in the afterlife, while inhumane laws and crimes are committed by those who do not.

Is there an afterlife? Ask Jesus Christ, ask Buddha Shakyamuni, ask Xuefeng, and you will find the answer.

[newprophets]

Why is the church of Laodicea rebuked in Revelation 3

"Avoiding the Lukewarm Trap: Lessons from Revelation 3:16"

If you’ve ever microwaved a cup of coffee and then forgotten about it, you know the disappointment of lukewarmness. It’s neither satisfying nor energizing—just bland. In Revelation 3:16, Jesus uses this very imagery to describe the Church of Laodicea. But what does it mean for us today?

Let’s explore how lukewarmness sneaks into our spiritual lives and how we can fight back with fiery passion and purposeful faith.

Lukewarmness Defined: Spiritual Indifference

The Church of Laodicea wasn’t persecuted, nor were they zealous. Instead, they were indifferent—comfortable in their wealth, blind to their spiritual poverty. Being lukewarm isn’t about being outright sinful; it’s about being so comfortable that you stop striving for growth.

Signs You Might Be Lukewarm

Minimal Effort: Going to church or reading the Bible out of habit, not desire.

No Spiritual Hunger: Feeling "fine" without seeking more of God.

Worldly Focus: Prioritizing material success over spiritual growth.

Why It Matters

Ineffectiveness: Lukewarm Christians can’t inspire others or make a difference.

Danger of Apathy: Complacency leads to spiritual decay.

God’s Warning: Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat His disapproval; He’s clear about the need for change.

How to Overcome Lukewarmness

Embrace Zeal: Pray for God to reignite your passion.

Take Risks for Faith: Serve in ways that stretch your comfort zone.

Refocus on Eternity: Seek heavenly treasures, not earthly ones.

Conclusion: Be All In

Don’t settle for lukewarm faith. Be hot—full of passion and action—or cold—refreshingly impactful. Either way, live in a way that pleases God and brings glory to His name.

#AvoidLukewarmness #FaithOnFire #Revelation316 #SpiritualGrowth #WakeUpChurch #HotOrCold #KingdomLiving

[daily-praise]

Today’s Reflection

Today’s gospel is not pleasant to hear, for it contains some harsh words of condemnation by Jesus over his continued conflict with the Pharisees who appear clean on the outside but on the inside they are filled with all sorts of vice according to the flesh, which Saint Paul lists in our first reading. With this, hope is hard to find, unless we heed the warning of Jesus and remain vigilant according to Saint Paul who supplies the answer with his list of virtues, which helps us live in the Spirit as long as we avoid complacency. This is why retreats, workshops, and spiritual direction are important, for they can ground us in a Christ centered reality so that we can continue to have favorable interiors that foster the good, as we love our neighbors as we do God as we continue to follow God and gain eternal hope.

Today’s Spiritual Links for October 16, 2024

National Eucharistic Review Today’s Mas Readings Today’s Reflection Rosary Liturgy of the Hours New American Bible Non-Scriptural Reading Prime Matters

[rainbowinthedark70]

Time's Up!

And here we are.  Nobody saw it coming; I’m no exception.  But knowing this time would come, I lived plenty and experienced life’s most exquisite moments in the company of my loved ones and favorite peeps while being true to myself and my dear guiding principles.  A family man by choice and design.

See, I never expected to live forever, so I lived every moment to the fullest, knowing each day could be my last.  I enjoyed the simple things the most and avoided drama and chaos at all costs.  I made the best out of every human relationship I cherished.  I wasn’t always perfect or complacent, but kind and helpful in every situation.  And in giving myself to the needs of others, I found comfort and confirmation of purpose.

Learning early on that we’re living on borrowed time helped me keep my aspirations in check while making my every move count toward the bigger picture.  Although I lost faith in humanity and resented every human flaw imaginable, I managed to stay clear of hate, turn my feelings around to offset the world around me, and become a helper and a joker of some sort.

Lonely and private crab at heart, Cancer I am, made room for clarity and understanding.  I delighted in solitude and made my biggest contributions to mankind in a spiritual realm of equality, acceptance, and humanity.  This is my secret to a cool, calm, and collected existence while it lasts. Always seeking shelter in nature and soothing comfort in the ocean.

To my loved ones, I gave my all.  To my peers, the same.  In every bad situation, I took the high road.  In every crisis, I gave it my undivided attention.  To uncertainty, I smiled and accepted the challenges without hesitation. I gave my best effort to the many unpleasant surprises and turned the other cheek. These actions set me free and cleared my conscience of any wrongdoing.  Total freedom, as I understand it.

Remember me as you will.  My authenticity could not be denied, whether it was a good or a bad memory of me. If I loved you, know that I would have given my life for you.  If not my favorite human, I left you alone and respected what you put out.  Always happy, always joyous, and always simple.  This is what I leave you with.  May our time together inspire you to become a better and greater human being. More importantly, I wish you the best this life has to offer before time runs out for you, too.

[jarmstrong719]

Time's Up!

And here we are.  Nobody saw it coming; I’m no exception.  But knowing this time would come, I lived plenty and experienced life’s most exquisite moments in the company of my loved ones and favorite peeps while being true to myself and my dear guiding principles.  A family man by choice and design.

See, I never expected to live forever, so I lived every moment to the fullest, knowing each day could be my last.  I enjoyed the simple things the most and avoided drama and chaos at all costs.  I made the best out of every human relationship I cherished.  I wasn’t always perfect or complacent, but kind and helpful in every situation.  And in giving myself to the needs of others, I found comfort and confirmation of purpose.

Learning early on that we’re living on borrowed time helped me keep my aspirations in check while making my every move count toward the bigger picture.  Although I lost faith in humanity and resented every human flaw imaginable, I managed to stay clear of hate, turn my feelings around to offset the world around me, and become a helper and a joker of some sort.

Lonely and private crab at heart, Cancer I am, made room for clarity and understanding.  I delighted in solitude and made my biggest contributions to mankind in a spiritual realm of equality, acceptance, and humanity.  This is my secret to a cool, calm, and collected existence while it lasts. Always seeking shelter in nature and soothing comfort in the ocean.

To my loved ones, I gave my all.  To my peers, the same.  In every bad situation, I took the high road.  In every crisis, I gave it my undivided attention.  To uncertainty, I smiled and accepted the challenges without hesitation. I gave my best effort to the many unpleasant surprises and turned the other cheek. These actions set me free and cleared my conscience of any wrongdoing.  Total freedom, as I understand it.

Remember me as you will.  My authenticity could not be denied, whether it was a good or a bad memory of me. If I loved you, know that I would have given my life for you.  If not my favorite human, I left you alone and respected what you put out.  Always happy, always joyous, and always simple.  This is what I leave you with.  May our time together inspire you to become a better and greater human being. More importantly, I wish you the best this life has to offer before time runs out for you, too.

[donman2112]

Before we begin, this was blatantly stolen from FB. It's my digital battlefield.

Morpheus' famous lines in The Matrix about the blue pill and the red pill are emblematic of a much deeper and more profound choice that each individual faces in life—the choice between comfortable ignorance and the often unsettling truth. When Morpheus offers Neo the choice between the blue pill and the red pill, he is not just offering two simple objects but two radically different paths of existence.

Morpheus' Words on the Blue Pill

Morpheus says to Neo:

You take the blue pill—the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill—you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes.

This moment is pivotal because it encapsulates the essence of the human condition: the choice between remaining within the confines of an illusory world, one that is comfortable, familiar, and seemingly safe, or daring to venture into the unknown, where truth, no matter how harsh or challenging, awaits.

The Profound Significance of the Blue Pill

The blue pill symbolizes a choice to remain within the matrix of illusions—a construct of lies, half-truths, and deceptions that create a false sense of security. Those who choose the blue pill willingly accept the reality presented to them, preferring the comfort of ignorance over the potential discomfort of truth. The blue pill represents:

Comfort Over Truth: The blue pill offers a life free from the pain of questioning, of challenging the status quo. It allows one to continue living in a bubble, where difficult truths are avoided, and uncomfortable realities are dismissed. It is the easier path, one where cognitive dissonance is minimized, and the individual can remain in a state of blissful unawareness.

Submission to the Illusion: Taking the blue pill is a form of surrender. It is an acceptance of the narratives imposed by external forces, whether they be societal norms, media influences, or political agendas. It signifies a relinquishing of one's autonomy and a submission to the control of those who construct the illusion.

A Rejection of Growth: Choosing the blue pill is also a rejection of personal and spiritual growth. Growth often comes through facing challenges, through questioning the world around us, and through embracing the unknown. The blue pill, in contrast, is a rejection of this journey—a refusal to grow, to evolve, and to seek a deeper understanding of existence.

Fear of the Unknown: The decision to take the blue pill is often driven by fear—the fear of what lies beyond the veil of illusion. The fear of facing a reality that might be harsh, unforgiving, or profoundly different from the comfortable narrative that has been constructed. This fear paralyzes the individual, keeping them locked in a state of complacency.

Those Who Choose the Blue Pill

Individuals who choose the blue pill are often those who are content with the surface level of life. They may fear the disruption of their worldview or the consequences of challenging deeply held beliefs. These individuals may:

Cling to Familiarity: They are drawn to the safety of what is known, what is predictable. They prefer the comfort of routine and the reassurance of societal validation over the uncertainty that comes with questioning the nature of reality.

Avoid Responsibility: The blue pill represents an avoidance of the responsibility that comes with knowledge. To see the world as it truly is requires action, it demands a response. Those who choose the blue pill are often unwilling to take on this responsibility, preferring instead to remain passive observers of life.

Live Within Boundaries: The blue pill takers live within the confines of the system, accepting the limitations imposed upon them. They do not seek to transcend these boundaries, nor do they wish to explore what lies beyond. Their lives are characterized by conformity and adherence to the prescribed narratives.

Reject the Call to Awakening: The choice of the blue pill is a rejection of the call to awakening. It is a refusal to engage in the journey of self-discovery, to explore the deeper mysteries of life, and to seek a higher truth. It is a denial of the spiritual quest that leads to enlightenment.

The Deeper Implications

The choice between the blue pill and the red pill is not just a fictional concept; it is a metaphor for the choices we all face in our lives. Do we choose to remain asleep, accepting the comforting lies that we are fed, or do we awaken to the sometimes harsh, yet liberating truth?

In Hermetic philosophy, this choice is akin to the decision to remain bound by the material world, with its illusions and distractions, or to seek the divine truth, which lies beyond the veil of appearances. The blue pill is the path of ignorance, leading to a life lived on the surface, where one is controlled by external forces and never truly knows themselves or the world.

For those who choose the blue pill, life may seem easier, but it is a life lived in shadows, a life where the true light of understanding never penetrates. It is a life of perpetual sleepwalking, where the deeper mysteries of existence remain forever hidden, and where the soul remains trapped in the prison of the matrix.

In conclusion, the blue pill represents more than just a simple choice—it symbolizes the decision to remain in darkness, to accept the illusion, and to reject the profound truth that lies beyond. It is a decision that many make, whether consciously or unconsciously, every day. Yet, for those who dare to take the red pill, who choose to awaken and see the world as it truly is, a path of profound discovery and liberation awaits. The choice is always ours, and in that choice lies the power to shape our reality.