#beauty and reflection of divinity is the purpose of MY art for sure

[thessaralka]

art isn't supposed to make you comfortable, but if it does tht's ok

[ambiguouspuzuma]

The Portraitist

Corina circled the portrait, once, twice, admiring her own handiwork; a slender paintbrush poised in hand, ready to add the final touches once her vision was complete.

"You know, this will be my greatest piece to date," she declared, a last appraising glance tracing the way her subject's hair cascaded down her neck, the folds of her high collar, the satin of her gown. The model had been a common girl, but in art she was elevated to something approximating the divine; anointed with the most unlikely of oils. "Yes - I am sure of it. She will be quite perfect."

"Aah!" Lady Sibylla cried out from her chaise, as if grievously wounded by the thought. "Oh, but my dearest Corina, you must always strive to create works of great imperfection. You must endeavour to find flaws, to correct the natural course towards completeness!"

That took her somewhat aback. Corina had always known her patron to be an eccentric, but ever still a lover of the arts and all things beautiful. "With apologies, my lady, you have lost me on that point. Surely you cannot mean that I should commit flaws on purpose?"

"If you create a work of true genius, it will be ushered into a museum where just any one might glance at it," Lady Sibylla answered - or else continued as if she had not interrupted. "For just as a beauty of her age may find herself inevitably cajoled into the starlight, so too great works of art find themselves ogled by even the least desirable eyes - copied on pamphlets and tea-towels, diluted until they nothing but background scenery, familiar to all and miraculous to none!"

So, Corina thought, this was to be one of those lectures. She listened impatiently, placing the brush like a cheroot between her teeth. Lady Sibylla had first seen fit to patronise her work some eighteen months ago - and, after a spell, she had also begun to support her financially. The money still came with sermons attached, but at least she was now paid to listen to them.

"Yes, far better to create a piece which is merely good, to be sold to hang above the mantle of a good family, to be loved and cherished and handed down for generations. You must trust me on this."

"Of course." Corina's focus was back on the painting. Beautiful. Far more so than the real thing - in fact, she could not even remember that poor girl's name. Oh, but that gave her an idea: "Forgive me, my lady, but have you ever had your portrait painted?"

"In another time. When I was a younger woman, and artists still cared to, or sought to use it as an excuse to enter my good graces."

"Ah, but that cannot truly be the case! You are surely as beautiful as you ever were - I hope that is not too forward for me to say. In fact, if you would be obliging, you must sit for me yourself sometime!"

"Truly?"

"It would be my honour. Come, next Tuesday at first light - and please, do dress for the occasion. I want to capture you at your very best."

Lady Sibylla did not disappoint. She arrived with Tuesday in full regalia, looking her absolute loveliest in a rich satin sarong, its layers ranging from a pale, delicate rose-yellow to the deeper burnish of honeycomb and saffron tea, an effect of cloth-of-gold against her brassy skin. Her hair was coiffured with pinchbeck pins, and a heavy shard of topaz nestled at the hollow of her throat, as a drop of amber congeals in the whorls of a copal tree.

It was an effort usually spared only for the finest balls and occasions, and that was exactly as Corina had hoped. She wanted to capture the Platonic ideal of her patron: to create a portrait of her at her very best, and which was therefore better than she almost ever was. As a painter, she aspired towards such art that imitates and surpasses life - just as Pygmalion carved a form more perfect and pure, and thus deserving of his love, than any woman of flesh and blood could even hope to be.

"Do remember to reflect these lights in my eyes," her subject continued to instruct, despite having been told to hold still. "I cannot bear the thought of becoming one of these dead-eyed portraits one sees in other people's hallways - some distant ancestor, of course, with not a trace of life in our time or their own."

"Of course." Corina had lit her as a shrine, illuminated from all directions by flickering flames on slender candlesticks. Too long had she been an unwilling disciple of the church of St. Sibylla, Reverend Mother of Wisdom, Our Lady of Condescension. Tonight, her candles all carried the same prayer.

The portrait showed the curve of her jaw, unencumbered by the folds of flesh that had begun to gather underneath; the deep brown of her noble skin, untroubled by the frown-lines which had spread over the years; and those eyes, so alight with reflected fire, an effect so seldom seen in her recent life, now known to squint through burgeoning myopia. In short, this was Lady Sibylla as she saw herself. As the painting took its shape, she was undone, and remade in her own image.

Corina added the finishing sheen to her patron's painted skin, reflecting the gold of the morning light, and marvelled at another perfect piece. It had taken the finest of snares to capture this essence, and the most delicate brushstrokes to tease it from Lady Sibylla's canvas onto hers, but she had caught it in that horsehair noose and deftly drawn her soul across. Having achieved what she had set out to do, she couldn't be prouder of her creation - and now, with it complete, the real business of destruction could begin.

She hung the portrait in her parlour, in pride of place above the hearth, well-angled to greet her guests as they arrived. True to Lady Sibylla's wishes, the audience was small at first: her patron herself, come to nod approvingly at what she must see as a shrine to her image, a form of encouraged idolatry, but also other dinner-guests, visiting friends, and the unexpected callers that one must also suffer from time-to-time.

Those who also knew Lady Sibylla - for their circles did overlap to some extent, with her patron having introduced her to society - remarked on what a perfect likeness the portrait held, at first marvelling at her gilded glow, and fawning over her actual beauty, highlighted here more than ever before, as much as Corina's brushstrokes in imitating it.

But that was curious - for, when they next suppered with Lady Sibylla herself, their opinion would reverse. They were unable but to note how drab and tawdry she seemed in comparison - in fact, the more they visited with the reflection, the more they ceased to recognise the real thing. It was if Lady Sibylla's shadow had somehow usurped her place, grappling her in turn against the wall, such that now when people saw her they felt she looked unusually withered and frail - as if suddenly drained of the life they'd seen her radiate just two days hence.

She would age, whilst the picture did not; her moods would shift with the weather, whereas the colours held constant, not disfigured by the dark clouds of despair or the torrid winds of long-term stress. Her voice was no longer the equal to its echo, her footprints standing twice as tall as she could ever be. The portrait would always look her best, and so she could only ever be its worst.

Over time, those who might have sought an audience with her were seen to take their tea with the canvas instead; Corina's audience grew, finding a comfort in her depiction that was now missing in reality, as if she'd captured some aesthetic truth they found unsettling in its absence. She was less liked than her likeness, less personable in person. With every week that passed, the ranks of its devotees swelled, and her own standing diminished.

Unaware of the subtle magic being worked within their hearts, Corina's visitors continued to praise the quality of her art - a constant stream of compliments which served to feed her pride, together with her growing popularity, almost as much as this demonstration of her power. They clamoured to be next in line to sit for her; such that, as the wolf that stalks amongst the flock, she had her choice of victim.

"It really is remarkable," an unwitting gentleman was heard to say, before giving that silver a clouded edge: "I would never have expected such mastery from such a novice. Indeed, even now one would not think it to look at her."

Corina sidled closer, pretending not to have taken offence. "I am honoured that you think so, my lord. In fact, if you would be so obliging, you must sit for me yourself sometime."

[deviiancetv]

۞ You’re Not Alone, A message from The Echoclipse ۞

“Do you want to spend a day

Just a day in the water

Just a day like no other

When nothing hurts your skin, yeah?”

✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎

I wanna start this post off by saying that it’s taken me some time to write/type this out… but it’s been a long time in the making. I’ve been the most vulnerable I’ve ever been lately these past few months, and thats for the best. I don’t care who sees this, I just want whoever’s out there to know that you’re not alone in feeling the way you do.

{{ Writers Note: This post may seem everywhere with no linear construct, but its purpose was to provide a release from my mind and I wanted to share it. I hope you enjoy <3 }}

I’m not happy, and I haven’t been for a long time. Everyday I feel the urge to runaway, dye my hair, get tattoos and say ‘goodbye’ to this life I’ve outgrown. Sure, I may giggle and smile, crack a joke or two, laugh for awhile. Using memes and shitposting as a creatively chaotic way of expression, but on the inside I’m decaying and crying for some glimmer of hope, that my life won’t always be this way…

What does it feel like to be happy? To be excited about life and have positive thoughts on the daily? I have no idea how to conceptualize what that would even look for me, let alone feel like. I could take doses of euphoria in synthetic swallows, or sips of anodyne to numb my mind for the night, but to do all of that and sleep off the effects would do me no good in my quest to figure out, “what is happiness?”

Majority of my teen and young adult life has been full of melancholy and existential dread. I’ve detached from so many things over the last few years, and it’s become so exhausting to even experience those bursts of joy or euphoric excitement all for it to be dimmed by the escapades and changes of life. The financial and emotional ups and downs with my mom, the passing of my grandma, housing changes and lack of stability, failed trust issues with people I considered friends, as well as fractured relationship with my dad, my mental health has not seen the sun in over 10+ years.

And as the years have passed, I’ve began to feel like happiness is just an expression of delusion, to pretend to be optimistic about life and not acknowledging the reality of the matter that existing in this society, this matrix, — it FOCKIN SUCKS M8. Then again, that may be my cynical pessimism reflecting on years of not knowing what happiness is. When I’m doing something I love, let it be art or writing plot lines and worldbuilding, I hit a state of creative excelsis instantaneously. Tapping into my creative side, imagining and brainstorming ideas, and the process of divine creation taking over me in these moments are all I have. It’s all I believe I was brought into this world to do.

One day, I want for my creations to inspire others to tap into their own creativity, I want my stories, and music to empower and motivate people to see the light even in the darkness of the void. Raising the vibrations of the collective through art and creating feels like my life’s purpose. I want people to truly know that life can be the most beautiful thing to experience. There’s so much beauty on this planet, there’s so much beauty about the human experience, and what we’re capable of doing is an act of love manifesting in physical form.

The thing about being a dreamer living this human experience, no dream is to hard to chase, no dream is impossible to live. The hardest part is working to achieve your dream and what your mind tells you. Your mind will amplify a negative thought x20 and it will swallow you into a dark hole, eclipsing you of the many things you found contentment in. Yet, through my own struggles, The Void has been my friend, it’s been the warm blanket, the quiet storm, and the suffocating presence that’s kept me at bay. It’s the one thing that’s felt like home for me even when living this life has not been the kindest. I’ve experienced several deaths to my ego and my inner child being wounded. As I’ve grown, I’ve learned that the only thing that will ever stay the same is the consistency of change… I may hate it sometimes, but even when life changes I can always retreat into my void and comeback as a more refined person.

I’m gonna leave this off with a poem I wrote back in 2020 about Change…

✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎ ⋆ ✴︎

R&L Poem ~ Changes

“Many things change like the seasons, Maybe things change for different reasons, Nothing ever stays the same

Many things change in our life time, Many things change like a past time, The old life you had you outgrew

Now that I am older, wiser, stronger, and bolder. My path is ever changing and my destiny’s ever waning, And like the seasons are ever changing

I’ll change too…

The only constant in this life is change, It can be good or bad depending on your point of view, For if your mind ever takes you to your lowest,

Open it to your grandest dreams, Change will rise and steer you to a higher place, Where happiness exists in the shifts that you make”

[ultrajustjo]

Week 1: Visio Divina

Choir Gate Contemplation

Choir gate or screen from the Cathedral of Valladolid, ca. 1763-64 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC. Photo taken June 4, 2023.

Recap

I love the juxtaposition of the stone archway with the iron screen. The Met's placement allows the piece to look much as it would have in a Medieval church. Cool, cool.

If you finished your meditation, read on for my own observations and contemplation. If you didn't and want to examine the piece in conversation with II Peter 1:5-11, take a moment or go find my other Week 1 post. Each week, I hope to post the art, give you time to participate, then post a second photo with my thoughts.

Here is a great illustrated map and bright, colorful picture of the choir screen:

Here is an abbreviated passage in NIV:

"...Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.

10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters,[a] make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

Observations

As noted before, this rood, screen, gate, or whatever you want to call it, is MAGNIFIED. It's magnified just as God is magnified beyond our scope. Yet...we are always welcome with God. Not only are we welcome, but Peter says we are called and elected by this huge, dizzying, magnificent triune God.

The screen is made up of three sets of spindles set into three cross layers of support. Three: trinity, stability, completion. Three parts guide our eyes heavenward.

At the top of the screen sits Christ's crown, surrounded by two smaller edifices. Do we see echoes of Calvary? The crown -- solid, unbroken -- erupts in a cross of splendor, fire, and explosive rays. The crown of Christ sits centered above all who stand below.

The ironwork includes curls, delicate tendrils, and swirls. There is life entwined with the life of the church! There is life entwined with the triune God.

There is gold overlaying the iron, and the farther your eye climbs from the ground, the more gold you see. Like the artisans who created the screen, we also try to reflect our gifts and our beauty back to God. Over time, we fall short, and sometimes the gold is difficult to see. Those glimpses of good, generosity, and love that God gave us and that Peter encouraged in us still shine if we let them.

When we stand in the shadows of the choir screen, we aren't sure what we see. The room is dark, and the spindles in the screen blend into the room's structure. When we stand back to get a better perspective, we see the details, the beauty, and the gold. Our eyes adjust, and we see the whole structure and infer its purpose.

Sometimes, in our busyness, we feel overwhelmed with shadows, unsure of our own purpose, forgetful in following God. We may forget to be welcoming, we may neglect to serve others, and we may forget or reject the ways we are to live in love for others. Peter reminds us to remember and to grow our faith by adding goodness to our faith, and by adding love for the "other." By increasing they ways we love, we will keep from stagnating in our faith and in our personal relationship with Christ.

We must "make every effort to confirm our calling and election" (II Peter 1:10). This verse is especially powerful for Duke Divinity School students.

Consider these definitions: to be called by God is to be invited, but with obligation and also with personal choice; to be elected means that you are already numbered among the beloved (all of creation) who God knows also choose to love and enter a relationship with the Trinity. Make every effort to confirm your calling. Make every effort to confirm your election.

The choir screen is a tangible example that illustrates how God's gifts are given in every age. What are our own gifts? Will we accept them? Will we use them to reflect back God's beauty and God's love for creation?

Finally, the screen reminds us that we create false separations between ourselves and others. We create false separations between ourselves and God. Yet, look at the gate! The Faithful Servers and the Laity share the same air, and smell the same incense. The whole church hears the voices raised in praise to God, and the whole church looks between the spindles to see the face of Christ in each fellow worshiper. The separation evaporates. For believers in 1763, in 2023, before, between and yet to be, the central archway is open. Come and dwell.

[magicsunwheel]

Why You're F#cking Amazing

Pick-a-Card

How to play: pick one of the photos below using your intuition. You can close your eyes and meditate for a bit or just take a few grounding breaths while thinking of the topic. Feeling drawn to more than one is fine! You might have messages in more than one pile

Pile 1 (x) Pile 2 (x) Pile 3 (x)

My pile numbers always go from left to right, then down to the text row (if applicable)

Pile 1

Cards: The High Priestess, Five of Swords, Seven of Pentacles, The Moon Rx, Five of Rods, Ace of Pentacles

You are so intuitive! You're either very in touch with your divine feminine or are working your way there right now. Something about you is severe in the most beautiful way. You can take things seriously when they need to and the way you command a room with just your presence is unmatched. Maybe you're also a tarot reader or involved in spirituality/divination in some way. Maybe you really like Pick-a-Cards.

Something beautiful about you is that you never give up on a fight, especially when you know the end is worth it. Your ambition is strong and you will fight for what you love and what you want. You are not weak-willed by any means.

This also makes you so unique! You work so hard and put so much labor into your love even if you know it will take a long time to come to fruition. The times that you feel discouraged by a lack of results are few and far between. If for some reason you do find yourself wistfully hoping for faster results or an easier path, you can easily remind yourself of why you started in the first place.

You might have moments where you think of yourself as sneaky or like you're hiding a part of yourself from others, like your true self would be too much for them. I'm here to tell you that your intensity is exactly what make you such a beautiful person! You thrive in competition and in adversity. It gives you a chance to show off your quick thinking and survival skills. Others look at you with envy of how you can make an opportunity out of seemingly nothing!

If you need help improving your self-love, Spirit says to stop comparing yourself to others! You are amazing and beautiful and unique all on your own! Throwing yourself into the fray to compete against others who are nothing like you will only fim your inner shine. And you really do shine! When I asked for a card about why you are beautiful, nearly half the damn deck flew out!

Sprit loves you and I love you so please take care of yourself and keep making those amazing opportunities to improve your physical surroundings. (I feel like you have a very clean room/home)

Pile 2

Cards: Nine of Rods, the World, King of Cups, Three of Rods, Ace of Rods, Two of Cups

Ahh the Loona pile!

Similar to Pile 1, but much more fiery! You are resilient! Taking time to collect yourself before pushing forward with a renewed sense of energy and purpose is such an amazing and useful trait. You maybe aren't as commanding of a presence but you have such an inner strength that no one can deny.

You got the World for the reason why you're beautiful! Maybe it's related to physically being very beautiful and possibly exotic-looking. You might have very specific features associated with a certain area of the world that stand out where you live. You also have such a wonderful understanding of the world and where it's currently at. Things can seem negative or like hope is lost but you still seek out the beauty and share it with others. You see opportunity where others do not and feel a sense of peace and connectedness with all of humanity. Wow!

Your uniqueness shines in your emotionality and compassion. You might be a natural born leader who makes sure to understand all under your rule. You lead with kindness and, most importantly, by example. You don't have any desire to use you position for ill-gotten gains. Power to you does not corrupt, it solely provides a tool for you to do good in the world and really make a difference in the lives of others, whether it's on a large or small scale. You are probably the kind of person who makes sure to give money to those who need it when you pass a begging mother and her children, or buying a homeless man a bottle of water on a hot day.

Your card for why you think you are not perfect actually came out quite positive. Maybe you don't have a very low self esteem, but I can see a few possible scenarios here. You might be constantly planning in your head, waiting and watching for the next move to take but never actually getting to the action part. Maybe you're planning for your future and have so much planned out that you're excited for, but haven't made the practical plans on how to actually get there. This could make you feel bad about yourself especially on days where you're reminded of others moving ahead in their lives while you're still planning. Visualisation is very important in manifesting your desired reality! If you are moving slower than others around you, remember that it is okay to not be where "everyone else" is. Life is not a race or a competition. Taking your time to get to where you need to be when you need to be there reminds me of the story of the tortoise and the hare. Quick does not necessarily mean better.

You can improve your self-love by creating! Using your creativity and passion to make something! Create art, whether it's physical/digital art, music, writing, inventing, anything that uses those creative muscles of yours. It doesn't have to be good! Just creating something will help burn up that excess energy you have that's trying to rush you somewhere. Self-expression this way can be a wonderful hobby even if you don't consider yourself as a creative person.

Your kindness really shines through. You care so deeply about the people around you and your spiritual team cares just as deeply about you. You are loved and watched over and protected by Spirit. Others around you also see your sparkle and appreciate and admire you, even if they don't show it. Know you are beautiful and amazing and bringing a light into this world that needs to be here.

Pile 3

Cards: Six of Rods, the Hierophant, Four of Rods, Six of Cups, Ten of Swords, the Hermit Rx

Damn, who are y'all!? You've got some mighty power and pull in this world. Maybe you're a public figure or have some kind of platform, like a social media with many followers. You could also be well-recognized within your field of study/work. Whoever you are, people see you and look up to you. They celebrate you and how amazing you are! Spirit loves this about you and you really shine in the spotlight. Your achievements deserve all this pomp and celebration!

You are naturally authoritative. People listen when you speak and take your words to heart. You might also be a religious person or someone who enjoys organization and the comfort of hierarchy. People will willingly follow you wherever you lead them because they trust you with all their hearts. "A merciful ruler" (lol) You hold your position with grace and dignity befitting a king or queen.

You are unique in ways the public recognizes, but we knew that already! You might be someone who likes to entertain and you throw the greatest parties and get-togethers. Maybe you've planned a wedding and everyone had such an amazing time! You know how to relax and have fun when the time for celebrating arrives. You can out down your guard and bit and let loose. Not many people with such responsibility can let go of the reigns like that, but you don't seem to hold on to control too tightly.

Your past might be a source of anxiety for you. Maybe you're worried that what you've done when you were younger will catch up to you and ruin what you've got going on now, but it's important to remember that the past is the past. It cannot be undone or wished away. Taking time to accept what happened and recognizing that you've moved on to bigger and better things is important here. Whatever happened, take time to heal your childhood wounds and forgive past actions.

Ending this cycle will bring much more self-love to your life. Old habits and patterns being out to rest is the way forward. It might be a painful ending and something you don't necessarily look forward to, but it is something that needs to happen to clear out old energy and welcome in everything new. You can't expect to move on if you're still repeating old actions or ways of thinking. It's time to set these things to rest and evolve. Leave behind what no longer serves you.

Your understanding of yourself knows no bounds. You've taken the time to inquisit yourself and learn all of the shadows that lie there. Self-reflection might be a favored pastime for you. Through this knowledge of yourself you are able to see truths that many struggle to see all their lives. Your light can cut through the fog if bullshit and see the true source of something. Use this knowledge of yourself to become the best version of yourself that you can be! I know you're already on your way there and it's amazing to see! Spirit is so proud of you and loves you so much!

[oncyprusshores]

Gods Can Care, A Thanksgiving Reflection

One of the largest growing pains I had coming to polytheism was the idea that- as a favorite author mine has said- ‘the divine don’t care about your personal progress’. To an extent I do believe that to be true. Pan might enjoy your company, what you do for conservation, and your dedication; but he’s not your life coach. Many gods often do have higher priorities extending beyond one of your mortal incarnations. But that isn’t to say they’re always disinterested.  I almost feel like some people’s hard-line stance on this idea might come from an aversion to having your religion resemble a ‘Footprints’ poster. I’ll admit it, sometimes I’ve avoided certain spiritual ideas because they hit a little too close to my trauma.  But I finally got it through my skull- The idea that a divine being cares is not a Christian invention! It depends on the god, it depends on the nature of your relationship with them, when you met them and for what purpose- Despite their grander priorities, they can genuinely be invested in you.  I will, of course, be using Aphrodite as an example (a surprise I’m sure). As far back as the earliest myths, she’s seemingly always had an eye on the mortal world. Whether it meant bringing her human OTPs together, fucking a human man in broad daylight, presiding over the wedding of a statue she gave life to, showing up on a battlefield- She was a worldly goddess deeply embroiled in mortal affairs. I’d say she had many little human pet projects she tended to with interest. Then I have all the ways she’s moved in my life. She’s been a guiding hand in my art. She’s brought me and many others together. She’s been a tireless advocate for my self esteem. She’s told me time and time again to be confident, to be the flirty little bitch I’ve always wanted to be but too anxious for. Last week she told me I should never be afraid to try and act sexy- because there’s plenty of people that think I’m sexy already, so of course they’ll just find me more sexy if I act it! I struggled to rationalize these experiences of her with the philosophy that gods don’t care about your personal growth, but on further reflection it’s clear to me she wants me to be the best possible version of myself. And that shouldn’t be hard to believe- She is the goddess of love, beauty, lust, and self-care. Since I strive to be her priestess, it only makes sense she’d want me confident in myself. If I’m to be her hands on this earth, she’ll want to train me well! So today, this Thanksgiving, if you struggle with that like I did... Think about your relationship. Think about the reciprocity you have with your heavenly connections. And if they seem to favor you, take that with pride. Don’t be afraid to say they love you- especially if you love them. And as always, show them your gratitude for all they embody and all they do.  Give thanks, and may love find you <3

[blissfulsun]

another smutty piece per some of your guys’ requests, enjoy my loves❣️

word count: 1,587

What happens in Vegas // Jeff Wittek

When David text you earlier asking to pack a bag and meet the others at the airport in an hour, you didn't expect the night to progress to this point.

Sure you had your hopes, musings even, about the possibilities if you could only stop being such a nervous wreck around him. 

The past few weeks had been spent zoning out of conversations and videos, your mind struggling to grasp at the fact that Jeff almost kissed you.

There was no clarification, no conversation the next day and he did his best to avoid you like the plague since, mysteriously disappearing as soon as you stepped foot through the door.

Which is why you were confused when he proceeded to barge through the dance floor of a random club in Vegas to rip your chosen dance partner off you in blinding rage. It didn’t take long for the security to be notified, your entire group kicked out.

The others decided to carry on the party elsewhere, but you were no longer in the mood, now stood seething in an elevator with the culprit of your jumbled thoughts, buzz long forgotten and feet aching from the ridiculous heels forced upon you that night by the girls.

Jeff insisted on seeing you back to your room, no amount of scoffing and eye daggers effective in warning him off.  

‘C’mon just say it’ Jeff huffs out, hands carting through his hair as you stomp out of the elevator childishly, intent on hiding in your hotel room for the rest of the trip.

The attempt to slam the door in his face is futile, the man still slipping through as you groan.

The next tactic is to ignore, you decide, turning away from him to take off your heels and pretend as if you’re on your own.

 ‘Y/n...’ he sounds frustrated himself, following quickly in your footsteps as you venture further inside. 

‘WHAT? I...I just need to be alone right now.’ you finally declare, looking at him briefly before your mind begins its onslaught of flashbacks, faces inches away, his hand cradling your jaw. 

‘No. I know you’re mad, please talk to me’ Jeff begs. You can’t help but laugh, ‘There’s nothing to talk about Jeffrey’ his brows furrow at the use of his full name, it sounds bitter coming from your lips.

‘Now if you don’t mind, I’m going to go to bed’ you continue, both of you aware that you were nowhere near ready for that, dress still on and clinging to your skin.

It only takes Jeff three short strides to cross the room and pull you close, hand wrapped around the nape of your neck in an aching deja vu.

He’s trying to gather his thoughts, heart in his throat at the close proximity and mind spinning despite staying away from the drinks tonight.

You’re the first to break the silence, except it’s not to tell him how badly you want him closer, something Jeff’s own mind is screaming at him to finally express. 

‘You done? Cause if you’re about to chicken out of kissing me again and pretend like nothing is going on between us tomorrow then I-’ Jeff shuts you up when he leans down and plants a hungry kiss to your mouth.

The real thing was better than you imagined, your lips moulding against each other with possessive intent.

To Jeff, it felt like coming home as he pulled you flush against him. His soft fingers blindly guiding the two of you to the bed, both unwilling to part even for some air.

Ever the tease, he eased you into the sheets and on your back, choosing to start his journey at your jawline, leaving deliberate marks and kisses down the column of your throat and protruding collarbones. 

Jeff’s lips were agonisingly slow, leaving a mess in the wake of his actions.

Eventually, his mouth culminated it's worship by your hips, easing the silky dress up and over your head of messy hair.

You hurriedly slipped your bra off, itching for him to do just about anything at this point to ease the growing frustrations.

Jeff only eyed you in amusement, a teasing smirk on his lips before the remaining layers were off, leaving the muscular man bare in front of you. 

‘Wait, shouldn’t we talk about this first?’ he snaps out of the intimate setting, brown eyes staring solely at your face with worry.

Your only response is to push the handsome man by his shoulders and straddle him in the bed, ‘We can talk later’ you decide, lips painting in various shades of pink and purple across the canvas of his neck and chest on your way down.

‘Y/n’ Jeff moans in surprise, a sigh of relief leaving his swollen lips as you teasingly kiss the tip of his length.

Jeff throws his head back, hands automatically reaching to grab at your soft locks, twisting the hair into a makeshift ponytail.

He could see you lick up the shaft and back to the top this way before he finally felt your warm mouth completely envelop around him. 

‘Shit. baby...’ his breathy reassurance enough encouragement for your mouth to ease the rest of him in until he hits the back of your throat.

Jeff lets out a pornographic moan at the feeling of your throat constricting lightly around him.

He’s shuddering in pleasure, the real thing beyond any dreams he'd encountered every time you would wear a particularly revealing outfit around him. 

‘Fuck, you’re going to have to stop baby’ his protests ignored as he writhed on the bed.

It was satisfying to have him like this, the view elating as you moved around to play with his balls teasingly.

‘Doll, I swear to god, if you continue I'll cum in your mouth. I need to be inside you’ he warns, groaning at the continued ministrations of your tongue.

You concede, taking him out of your mouth with a pop, smiling angelically as he takes only a second to recover, bare chest heaving in a beautiful display.

Suddenly, your positions change, your frame expertly thrown under him as Jeff hovers, lips wrapping around your earlobe to pull harshly before you’re kissing again.

Jeff can taste himself on your tongue, he smells divine this closeup, the aroma ingraining into your own skin as he paints down your heaving chest some love marks of his own.

‘Relax baby, ‘m gonna make you feel good’ he rasps, pupils dilated at the sight of you bare and so pliant under him. 

With a smirk that could be felt against the skin of your chest he continues down your soft stomach, easily stealing the breath from your lungs as he plays with the side of her panties, snapping at the elastic before placing a kiss against the material on each side.

‘Jeff...please’ your voice sounds strained, body writhing against the bed sheets impatiently.

‘Whatever you want princess, just know I'm going to get a taste of you the next chance I get’ with that promise Jeff removes the last flimsy piece of fabric separating your bodies.

His larger frame hovers and you admire each inch of skin, lost in the moment.

The city lights reflecting off his bulging biceps, eyes dark as Jeff returns the lustful stare, still processing how he had managed to end the night wrapped between her legs. 

And then he guides his length slowly inside you, throwing his head back at the tight and warm welcoming feeling of your pussy around him.

Jeff buries his head in your neck & you wrap your soft legs around his torso, warmth pulling him in deeper like a vice.

‘You feel like fucking heaven’ he groans deeply against your sternum.

You swear you can almost feel him smiling, the two of you pulling your heads away to look each other in the eye as he finally begins to move.

His hands follow a loving path down to your hips and thighs as Jeff draws away only to snap his hips more forcefully against your own.

The fastened pace draws a toe curling gasp from your kiss swollen lips.

Jeff decides there and then it was his favourite new view and sound: you, unravelling underneath him with each precise thrust. 

For you, the vision of lean muscle and his increased movement spurred your own euphoria on to the finish line, Jeff somehow hitting at your g spot with every move. It was like he'd invented the art form, the familiar knot coiling in your stomach. 

‘...Jeff’ the graphic whine of his name on your lips spurres his own ending on, the pressure immense as he releases once you clench around him sporadically in your own orgasm. 

Trying to catch his breath, Jeff lays beside you, chests heaving from exhaustion as both of you stare at the ceiling momentarily.

Turning over to him, you swing a leg across his hip, his arms wrapping around you to pull you closer in return. 

‘I knew you were a woman of many skills but fuck...that blowjob had me writing vows" he declares, voice low and half joking against your hairline as he begins to softly trace up and down your spine.

Your reply is a round of laughter, hair messy and lips still reddened from the previous activities, Jeff leans in to stifle the adorable sound with a soft but purposeful kiss.

The pair of you fall asleep soon after, well aware you might just have ruined each other for anyone else.

[frodos-bizarre-adventure]

@gingerreggg thanks for the appreciation! TnT

Heads Up- Part 14 (Joseph x Bust! Caesar)

▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪

"Is that necessary?" Suzi complained, as Joseph placed a motion sensor on the table next to Caesar. "And where did you get that, even?"

Joseph grinned his characteristic smirk. "It's to keep the neighborhood kids from messing with my bike. I have to leave it outside cause I don't have a garage..."

"You sure are prepared for everything, Jojo!" she giggled.

Joseph always had the knack for expecting the unexpected, ever since they were kids. Perhaps that could partly explain why Joseph got used to having a talking art project so quickly. How he made it look so normal.

"Okay, Caesar. We're gonna have to get you to not move, not one twitch!" Joseph instructed him. "If you move even the slightest bit, this alarm goes off."

Caesar blinked, and the sensor immediately began to beep.

"Sorry bout that," Caesar apologized.

"You don't need to blink, don't you?" Joseph asked as he reset the sensor.

"It's a force of habit!" Caesar said defensively. "I know I don't even have any tear ducts but it's a reflex! Maybe Anthonio used to blink!"

"Of course he did, he was human," Suzi said.

It struck Joseph as odd that Caesar referred to Anthonio as someone else.

Did he not consider himself Anthonio? Or at least, not anymore? Suzi did, after all, say Caesar was less of a ghost, and more of a reincarnation. Maybe he'd found a new identity.

Maybe he'd found a new purpose.

The entire situation intrigued Joseph. "Say, Suzi, about those Mesoamerican lore of yours..." he asked, "How exactly do those 'spirit guardians' work?"

Suzi laughed. "You're really curious about all this, aren't you?"

Joseph shrugged. "I suppose."

"Hmm. Well, it says here in these old texts, that most spirit guardians were ancestors that returned to the mortal plane, when summoned by those in need, to act as a guardian angel of sorts."

"Heh! Guardian angel you say?" scoffed Caesar. "I'm just a goddamn head."

Suzi shot him an annoyed look and continued on. "Anyway, it's said that these new beings were usually a 'predescessor' of some way. Not necessarily by blood, per se, but by legacy-- say, a warrior could summon a spirit of a warrior before them, or a scientist that of an old philosopher..."

"...and I suppose Anthonio was a sculptor who sought to carry on his legacy in you."

"Then why don't I remember being Anthonio, then?" Caesar retorted.

"Because, Caesar," Suzi said, "the wisdom of the past is tainted with the memories, the identities of those who experience them. I can never be too sure, of course," she shrugged, "but I feel it's made that way to pass on their wisdom to a new worthy successor to their legacy-- yet from a whole new perspective unclouded by their own beliefs. So that Joseph's art would be inspired by Anthonio's, but still be Joseph's own."

Joseph laughed at the irony. "Like how I copied...er, based, Caesar's face off on the statue Anthonio made...which he'd actually based on his own face."

Destiny sometimes did strange twists to absurd results.

"Alright, let's do this one more time!" Joseph said, replacing the motion sensor.

--------

Day by day Caesar practiced standing still. Trying to look like a perfectly ordinary, non-living sculpture. Trying not to blink, or move reflexively, just staring vacantly into nothingness like the lifeless figure he originally was.

It helped that Caesar's eyes never felt dry, even without blinking, they were clay, after all. It didn't hurt, or feel very uncomfortable, but it did make him nervous.

But he fought said feelings, because he knew it was all for Joseph.

He was doing it for the person he loved the most. After all the things Joseph had done to make his life a happy one, this was the best way for Caesar to pay him back.

By serving his original purpose as Joseph's grand masterpiece.

And it was enough to motivate him to try his damned hardest.

"And that's eight hours!" Joseph exclaimed, checking his stopwatch. Caesar had managed to keep still without triggering the beeping of the motion sensor for a record period of time.

"You can relax now, Caesar. Eight hours is all we need."

Caesar blinked and sighed.

"See, you could do it!" Joseph encouraged. "Eight hours each day for two days. Enough for the gallery to hold you on exhibit, and have the judges grade you. And then, hopefully, I graduate and get to have you back."

"You promise?" Caesar asked, in almost a pleading tone.

"I'll try my hardest to get you back," Joseph told him, his mind lingering on the faint possibility that Caesar might be selected for permanent display.

Joseph used to want to make a sculpture so exquisitely defined that it would be put up there in the gallery, alongside those of the greatest artists, forever. How strange that he now wanted the opposite.

He'd made Caesar far too beautiful, and because of this he risked losing him.

"Say, about that thing you said earlier?" Suzi told Joseph. "You based him off an old sculpture by Anthonio, didn't you?"

"I mean, it wasn't a painted statue, so I doubt they'd see the similarities with Caesar all colored and all." Joseph added with his usual mischievous grin.

"Still, he does look a little plain," Suzi pondered, as she looked at the bust from different angles. "We ought to spice him up a little!"

"Oh great," Caesar complained. "More dress-ups."

Suzi pulled out a handful of ribbons, scarves and other accessories and began trying out a bunch of styles to make Caesar look more striking-- and hopefully disguise him from anyone who would suspect Joseph stole the design.

A bowler hat, necktie and a monocle. "This is stupid," Caesar grumbled.

A masquerade feather headdress and a colorful bead necklace. "Hell no," complained Caesar again.

A magenta beanie hat, heart sunglasses and a short shawl. "Are you kidding me?" Caesar cried irately.

But there was one set of gear that made an impact on Caesar, when Suzi put them on.

A headband, designed with a zigzagged line between orange and violet, with a pair of prominent white feathers on each of the temples, and a soft, pink scarf to complete the look.

Caesar opened his mouth to complain, and quickly shut it again as soon as he saw his reflection.

He...actually kind of liked this one.

"Say, that actually suits you well," Joseph said.

"I think so too," Caesar smiled, pivoting slightly on his neck base to see his reflection from another angle.

"So it's settled then?" Joseph asked. "You'll be wearing that to the exhibit?"

"Sure," Caesar agreed. "Anything that won't make you look like a ripoff."

Joseph smiled. He admired Caesar's getup: with the scarf and the headband, he looked positively divine. He looked lovelier than he'd ever had.

He knew that the judges would absolutely like him.

He just hoped they wouldn't like him enough to take him away.

-------

It wasn't long before the day of the exhibit, of Joseph's graduation, was close at hand.

Sleep came little to the troubled artist, as he lay on his bed, his eyes blankly fixed onto the ceiling. The room's only light came from a harsh, white table lamp.

It was three days, before he had to prove himself to the world.

To his mother, Professor Lisa, that he was worthy of her respect.

And to the legacy of his late grandfather, Jonathan, who had been his inspiration, as a child, to become an artist in the first place.

Joseph imagined his grandfather watching him from the stars, invisible but ever present. If only he could see him now. If only he could tell what he'd have thought of him.

His mind drifted back to Suzi's quote, about the spirit guardians being the souls of those who came before. To pass on their legacy.

He couldn't help but imagine. What if Grandpa Jonathan himself had possessed his project bust? He giggled at the thought of his beloved grandpa as a talking, bouncing clay sculpture.

But yet fate seemed to have chose Anthonio Zeppeli to be his guide.

There must have been something special about him that he needed to pass on.

Or maybe, it was just Anthonio himself being perfect for him. Strange that they had to meet in such an improbable way.

He was different now, reborn as another person entirely. Another person that Joseph adored the way he was. Body or no body.

Thinking about Caesar made Joseph's heart thump hard within his chest. Why did he feel this way? To a figure he created? Was it weird? Was it wrong?

And yet as he listened to the steady drum of his own heartbeat, he decided that no, it seemed like nothing felt more right. Caesar was his.

It was then Joseph realized that the steady thumps were getting louder. He first feared there was, perhaps, something wrong with his cardiac rhythm. But then he felt there was another source, that seemed to be coming from outside.

And as Joseph turned his head to look, right on cue, Caesar came bouncing into his room.

In the dim light, Joseph marveled at his bizarre, surreal beauty as he hopped across the floor, still clad in the headband and the scarf that he'd come to enjoy wearing.

Somehow, as ridiculous, slow and clumsy as his only mode of transportation was, Caesar looked oddly majestic.

The vigor and strength with which he pushed his neck against the floor with each hop. The gracefulness as his head turned upward at the highest point of each jump, his headband's feathers fluttering almost like tiny wings. The way his torso stump flexed as it barely cleared the floor with each little forward bounce. And of course, the sheer look of focused determination displayed on Caesar's face as he made his way toward the bed.

He was scarcely even half a man, but his spirit had the strength of many.

To even move his clay form along the distance from kitchen to bedroom took considerable effort, without the aid of arms and legs. And yet Caesar made it work. Caesar made the impossible possible. In spite of his tremendous handicap, he learned to persevere, to overcome.

And maybe Joseph realized why he admired Caesar so much.

Not just with his gorgeous, colorful clay exterior, but with the soul within, burning so bright with passion and determination, despite all odds that barred his way.

Perhaps this was why they were fated to meet.

"Jojo, you awake?" Caesar said, snapping Joseph out of his admiring stupor.

"Huh, yeah, I am now," Joseph mumbled. "What's the matter?"

Caesar looked downward, sadly. "I just feel lonely."

"And next you'll say, 'Can I sleep on your bed tonight, Jojo?' huh?" Joseph smirked.

"Can I sleep on your bed tonight, Jo--" Caesar began to say, before realizing it. "Huh? How did you know--?"

Joseph laughed warmly. "You don't even need to say it, Cae. You're always welcome with me. Anytime."

Gently, he lifted the bust up from the floor. By now, his heavy weight now felt familiar and no longer burdensome. He gently laid Caesar onto the pillow next to him, and, removing his scarf and headband and placing them onto his bedside table, lovingly laid a blanket over Caesar's stubby torso.

With his body, or lack thereof, covered by a quilt, Caesar looked less like a sculpture and more like Joseph's very own, perfectly typical roommate.

Joseph laid back down onto the bed, gently embracing what little body Caesar had, warmly and tenderly underneath the covers.

"Goodnight, Caesar," he said, resting his head against Caesar's soft, warm clay body.

"Goodnight too, Jojo," he responded, as he closed his eyes for the night.

Artist and artwork fondly embraced, within the dimly lit room without anyone else to witness. Suzi was at her home today. It was just him and Caesar, together alone, gently feeling each other's gentle warmth in a fleeting yet sincere moment, as rest soon enveloped their tired minds.

A fleeting yet sincere moment that Joseph wasn't sure he'd get to have again.

--------

(Previous Chapter)

(Next Chapter)

[morrpriestess]

Empaths

Did you know that there are plenty of Empath types?

What is an empath?

Empaths are simply and merely very conscious people. conscious people that are able to connect with themselves and others through their own nature and abilities. They are rare, but at the same time... not really, as everyone and anyone can be one as long as they’re ready; everyone and anyone can be a certain type of empath from birth as well.

Don’t feel intimidated if you want to learn about any sort of divination, just make sure you’re well informed and have people that’ll guide you along correctly!

Many think that being an empath is literally reading minds or feeling what everybody is feeling, perhaps even closing your eyes and making weird movements with your hands while speaking strange tounges connecting with powerful beings... but that’s not really the case. Psychic abilities are unique in a certain way, they do not work with your ego, but they surely work with your nature. Your very essence. 

When you’re reading cards, when understanding a mind, a soul, a body of any kind. You musn’t really think about your place within the reading, because when you are in the process of divination, connection and the such we’re truly just uniting within and with the collective subconscious. 

I feel like many times this has become merely aesthetic. The thrilling characteristic of having and using a label. The classic “I am”. Always the “I am”.

“I am god”

“I am a witch”

“I am the light”

“I am this”

“I am that”

As if suddenly that gave you the right to ignore yourself, as if suddenly everything is perfect, as if suddenly you’re just one thing, so it’s now easy.

The 12th house doesn’t care... at all. You’re either there because you have to or wanted to. You just know things, no words, just the heart and the soul, body in the deepest waters of Pisces, who welcomes them all with a weird cold water splash. The ego goes there to die. You’re not here to think you. You’re here to be you and be humble about it, because the process will be made once again, because there are still things left to do, because you’re meant to enjoy life, physical life, a little bit better, and a little bit longer. Floating among a sea with the sky in it. As answers are here and not there.

Funny, now I suddenly want to sleep very badly. Beautiful isn’t it? We all have our own purposes, yet they’re all united and made for each other as well.

This is the first lesson one must learn in order to connect with their feelings and themselves in order to divinate, or perhaps just know things. Just let it flow, but in your own way, and in your own nature.

How to find your divination match?

Trial and error, my friend!

In my tarot courses, I like to help people find their match.

Maybe you’re clairvoyant, maybe you’re a medium, a geomatic, precognition, flora & fauna, etc. You can see it reflected by your sun sign sometimes, in fact: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FrJ4AZzLw4

People who understand mathematics flawlessly are also empaths. They understand one of god’s most impeccable languages, so for example, numerology is a great match for them. In order to connect with psychic abilities, you must trust yourself and understand your nature, are you more logical? try Vedic astrology or numerology, are you wilder? try feathers or animal tarot cards, communication with elements, animal spirits, etc. Don’t go for the aesthetic. Go foryou.

No aesthetic will be more fitting for you than your own, original one.

Are you an artist who loves to paint? auras perhaps, examining people as if they were works of art by the ultimate artist, saying “yes, they knew what they were doing... but why?”... or you can also go for colorful artistic oracles if you like keeping it simple!

Yes, you’re an empath already, you perhaps just haven’t woken up yet, maybe you’re not ready or your life is maybe just about something else. Don’t get too stressed out about that! this is just a very simple headstart for the ones who’re looking for a sign or have tried but failed :)

With love,

                                                                                                 - Morr’s Priestess.

[the-caffeinated-coffee-idiot]

A Poem for You

    (Had to write poems for English class and a sonnet I wrote accidentally on purpose became a fanfic.)

      Lukas had just gotten out of lunch. He was headed to his Language Arts class, one class he and his friend Mathias shared. This one class gave Lukas the time he needed to develop a small crush on Mathias. Once the bell had rung the teacher began, “Good afternoon class. The assignment for today will consist of writing and sharing a Shakespearean sonnet. You will have twenty minutes to write the sonnet and the rest of the class will be the presentations.” When the teacher was done explaining the class period, Lukas got to work. 

     “Okay class, the twenty minutes are up. We will start the presentations now. Would anyone like to go first?” Time crawled by for Lukas and he couldn’t help but stare at Mathias as he presented the poem. “Lukas, would you like to present?” Lukas snapped out of his daze and walked to the front of the class. 

The fair view of you is a sight to see                          

How does the sun shine in the face of you                

The world can run by me, for you can be                  

The light of my day and starlit night too                       

Daylight bright and darkest night cannot hide            

The divine beauty of your eyes                                 

Their alluring blue so full of your pride.                          

The color reflected from them is the skies                    

Electric life. The golden spikes of your                      

Wild hair exhibit the flair that draws me                    

Toward your happy self. It is a lure.                          

I will not turn down your offer for tea                          

Because with you is where I want to be                  

Even if it is very hard to see

     The class applauded and Lukas went back to his seat. Not too long after Lukas presented the bell rung, releasing the eager students to passing period. Mathias tapped on Lukas’ shoulder, “Hey! Your poem thing was great! I think you should write more of them.”  Lukas blinked, “Oh, um, thank you. I’ll consider it.” “But, uh,” Mathias began again, “who was it about?” Lukas’ face turned a light pink, “U-um s-someone I know…” “Really? Do I know them too?” 

     “All too well, Mathias.”

     “Can I guess?”

     “S-sure…” 

     “Is it… Me?”

     Lukas’ eyes widened, “I, uh, I… Maybe.” “Yea! I got it first try!” Mathias checked the time, “I think it’s cute that you write about me. Well got to get to Math class. Love you too, bye!” With that Mathias left Lukas stunned at his next class. 

(yes I do know my sonnet is missing iambic pentameter in some lines but it’s difficult to do.  

[calvarycommunitychurch-blog]

7 things to look for when reading through the Bible - Focus on the Family

This is a great article from Focus on the Family Canada. Credit for the content goes to  Written by Subby Szterszky and the original article can be found here.

This is it – the year you finally read through the entire Bible. Sure, you’ve tried before and gotten bogged down by the spring thaw or the law codes in Leviticus. But this time, you’ve found the ideal Bible reading plan: well-balanced, realistic and tailored to your reading habits. You’ve prayed about it and enlisted an accountability partner to keep you on track.

All of which is fantastic. But in order to see it through to the end – and more important, to benefit from the experience – you need to read with anticipation, with your eyes, your heart and your mind attuned to what the Spirit of God is saying through his Word.

To aid in that process, here are seven things to look for as you embark (or continue) on your scriptural odyssey. There are more than seven, of course, but seven is a nice biblical number and these are a good place to start. They’ll help keep your reading plan from becoming a drudgery and ensure it remains a joyful path of discovery throughout the year.

God

It may appear self-evident that readers of God’s Word should first seek him within its pages. And yet, people typically approach the Bible by asking, “What does this passage say about me, and how does it apply to my life?” Those are valid questions, up to a point, but they’re not the most important ones. In fact, they can be used to distort the meaning of a passage by reading one’s own experiences into it.

That’s because from start to finish, the Bible isn’t primarily about us, but about God. To be sure, Scripture has much to say about human nature and culture and history. But it addresses all those subjects solely with respect to God.

Through human language and the written word, the Creator of the universe has chosen to reveal himself – his character, power and purposes – to his human creatures. He has told us who we are, why we’re here, and how we can be what he created us to be, in a loving relationship with him.

And so, the first questions to ask when reading anything in the Bible are: “What does this say about God? What does it reveal about who he is, what he’s done and continues to do? How does it help me know him and trust him and love him more?”

Grace

There’s a common misconception, even among professing Bible believers, that the Old Testament is all about law, whereas the New Testament is all about grace. In fact, an early heretic named Marcion went so far as to claim that the two Testaments portrayed two different gods: an inferior god of judgment in the Old and a superior god of love in the New.

The Scriptures themselves will have none of that, of course. The Old Testament echoes with a repeated description of God as “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” Jesus himself, although full of grace and truth, also spoke at length about judgment and raised the bar of righteousness to include motives of the heart as well as outward actions.

Both Testaments portray God as eternal and unchanging, his law and grace forever intertwined, his love and judgment meeting at the Cross of Christ. To read the Bible is to discover and trace that braid of divine justice and kindness through all its turns, finally displayed perfectly in the person of Jesus.

Challenge

The essence of idolatry is the desire to domesticate God, to make the Creator more like his creation, easier to comprehend and to control. But the God of the universe will not fit into our boxes, whether personal, cultural or theological. In fact, he declares that his ways and his thoughts are as far above ours as the heavens are above the earth.

It’s not surprising, then, that his Word should contain things not only difficult but at times downright disturbing. Such things will vary depending on the assumptions of each culture, but they’ll always be present. For people in the 21st century, the Bible’s sexual ethos, its tolerance of slavery in the ancient world, and its portrayal of genocidal warfare are especially difficult to square with the idea of a just and loving God.

In the eyes of the wider culture, such passages may be deal breakers, but for followers of Jesus, they’re challenges. Strange customs, lengthy genealogies, and even the conquest of Canaan invite readers to think deeply, pray earnestly, embrace mystery and recognize that God is bigger than us. As Tim Keller observes, “If your god never disagrees with you, you might just be worshipping an idealized version of yourself.”

Beauty

God is beautiful, and he has designed his cosmos to reflect his beauty. It only follows that his written Word should do likewise. Its accounts brim with grandeur and glory along with moments of quiet intimacy to melt the heart and comfort the soul. It paints word pictures of a world that’s fallen and yet enjoying the kindness and care of its Sovereign Lord.

But beyond their divinely inspired content, the Scriptures are beautiful in themselves as literature, their varied styles equally inspired by God. Contrary to common belief, the Bible isn’t a textbook on science or history or even theology. Nor is it an instruction manual on morals and ethics and successful living. To be sure, it touches on all those subjects and many more besides. But it does so in the form of artful writing.

It’s no accident that God chose to record a significant chunk of his Word as historical narrative and poetry, rather than as didactic instruction. He designed it to appeal to the whole person, the heart and the imagination as well as the mind. To read it any other way is to miss at least part of its message.

Diversity

In the natural world, beauty expresses itself through diversity, and once again it’s the same with Scripture. The Bible is a library of 66 documents, written on three continents over some 1,500 years. Its human authors represent a wide range of temperaments and social classes, each writing to address the issues of their day.

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, these authors wrote in an eclectic variety of genres: war stories, pastoral romances, songs of love, songs of lament, prayers, letters, biographies, travelogues, memoirs and apocalyptic visions, among others.

Such a diverse array of genres cannot be read with a one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s hard to imagine why anyone would want to do so. Like the many flavours at a fine feast, they’re meant to be savoured, both for their own qualities and for how they blend with one another. Each one speaks with its own voice, and yet contributes its own unique facet to the overall message of Scripture. Discovering that unity, expressed through diversity, is one of the genuine pleasures of reading through the Bible.

Unity

Every great story worth following has a central plot line, a unifying narrative that frames it and gives it structure. There may be subplots and asides, but that main storyline winds throughout, by turns hidden and exposed, and it pulls the reader toward its conclusion.

The central narrative of the Bible can be summarized as a drama in four acts: Creation, Fall, Redemption and Restoration. From a human perspective, it began in the Garden, reached its climax at the Cross, and will conclude in the New Jerusalem, in the New Heaven and New Earth. From a divine perspective, it was written in the mind of God before he made the cosmos, and will resonate into eternity, to his glory.

Because of the wonderful diversity in Scripture, it’s tempting to think of its many parts as vignettes in an anthology, at best only loosely related to each other. But in truth, they combine to form a unified mosaic from their various literary shades and colours. The main storyline winds through them all, at times clear and at other times subtle, but always there. And thus, when reading the Bible, it’s always crucial to ask, “What does this passage bring to the central narrative of Creation, Fall, Redemption and Restoration?”

Gospel

It’s fitting to conclude this list where it began, by looking for God in the Scriptures. And that means looking for Christ and the Gospel. Such a search is by no means limited to the New Testament, nor is it an exercise in speculative interpretation.

There are, of course, the overt Messianic prophecies that are quoted as such in the New Testament. But it goes deeper than that. After Jesus rose from the dead, he began to teach his disciples everything that was written about him in the Law, the Prophets and the Psalms. For 1st-century Jews, this threefold description was shorthand for the entire scope of the Old Testament. In other words, Jesus was claiming that all of Scripture was about him, in one sense or another.

We need to be careful here. Jesus was not inviting his followers to dig for Gospel metaphors behind every horse and sword and city wall and loaf of bread in the Old Testament. But he was directing them to recognize that all the Scriptures – every narrative account, genealogy and poetic image – in some way points to him and anticipates his coming.

It could hardly be otherwise, given that Jesus is the protagonist as well as the fulfillment of the grand narrative of Creation, Fall, Redemption and Restoration.

Depending on our tastes, temperament and cultural background, different parts of the Bible will strike us in different ways. Some passages will captivate and inspire, while others will perplex and challenge. But viewed through the lens of the Gospel, all of it will open new vistas on the goodness, wisdom and beauty of God. And therein lies the point – as well as the pleasure – of reading through the Bible.

Sources and further reading

Haven’t yet found that perfect Bible reading plan? Here are links to a few reading plans, devotionals and other resources to help you on your journey through the Scriptures.

Bible Gateway

Bible Project

Biblica: The International Bible Society

English Standard Version (ESV)

Focus on the Family Canada

Read Scripture App

She Reads Truth

YouVersion Bible App

[risalei-nur]

TAFSIR: Risale-i Nur: The Words Collection:The Twenty Sixth Word.Part 8

Conclusion

This consists of Five Paragraphs which silenced the Old Said’s obstinate, proud, and conceited soul, and compelled it to submit. 

FIRST PARAGRAPH: Since things exist and have been made with skill, a Supreme Maker must exist. If everything’s existence is not ascribed to One Being, the existence of a single thing would become as difficult as the existence of all things. But if everything is ascribed to One Being, the creation of all things becomes as easy as the creation of one thing. Since One Being has created the earth and the heavens, for sure that All-Wise and Skillful Creator would not allow disorder to arise by allowing others to create and administer living beings, who are the fruits and aims of the heavens and the earth, and so He would not mock His Divine purpose for creation. He would certainly not give others their worship and thanks. 

SECOND PARAGRAPH: O my haughty carnal soul! You are like a grapevine. The vine itself has not attached the bunches of grapes; someone else has attached them, so do not boast.

THIRD PARAGRAPH: O my ostentatious carnal soul! Do not be proud of your services to God’s religion. As stated in a Prophetic Tradition, God may strengthen this religion by means of a dissolute person. You are not pure, so regard yourself as that dissolute person. Purge yourself of self-admiration and pride by considering your service and worship as thanksgiving for God’s past favors to you, a duty required by your humanity and a consequence of your being God’s work of art. 

FOURTH PARAGRAPH: If you want to acquire knowledge of the truth and true wisdom, try to attain knowledge of God. For all truths and realities of creation consist in the rays of the Divine Name of the Ultimate Truth and EverConstant and the manifestations of His Names and Attributes. The reality of each human being and every existence, whether material or spiritual, substantial or accidental, originates in the light of one of His Names. Otherwise they would be mere forms without any substantial reality and truth. 

O my carnal soul! If you are attached to this temporary worldly life and try to flee from death, know that life is the present moment. The past and what existed therein have passed away, and the future and what will exist therein is still non-existent. Thus the material life upon which you rely is of momentary duration. Some truth-knowing scholars even say that life consists of an instant. For this reason, some saints believe that the world is non-existent on account of itself. As this is the reality, abandon the corporeal, carnal life and rise to the level of life of the heart, spirit, and innermost faculties. See what a broad sphere of life they have. The past and future, which are dead for you, are living for them; they are existent and full of life. Given this, O my carnal soul, shed tears like my heart, and cry out and say:

I am mortal, so I do not want the mortal.

I am impotent, so I do not desire the impotent. 

I surrendered my spirit to the All-Merciful, so I desire none else. 

I want only one who will remain my friend forever. 

I am but an insignificant particle, but I desire an everlasting sun. I am nothing in essence, but I wish for the whole of creation.

FIFTH PARAGRAPH: This paragraph occurred to me in Arabic and so was written in Arabic. It expresses one of the 33 stations of reflection upon “God is the All-Great” (Allahu Akbar). God is the All-Great: He is the All-Powerful, the All-Knowing, the AllWise, the All-Munificent, the All-Compassionate, the All-Beautiful, the Eternal Inscriber. The truth and reality of these worlds, in whole and in parts, and in “sheets,” and layers, as well as the truths and realities of these beings as a whole and individually, and in their existence and continuation, are but: 

the lines drawn by the Pen of God’s Decree and Destiny, and His ordering and determining with knowledge and wisdom; 

and the skillful inscriptions made with the compasses of His Knowledge and Wisdom, and forming and arranging, with art and favor;

and the embellishments of the shining “hand” of His Art, Favor, decorating, and illuminating, with grace and munificence;

and the flowers of the subtleties of His Favor and Munificence, and making Himself known and loved, with mercy and bountifulness; 

and the fruits of the effusions of His Mercy and Bountifulness, Pitying and Affection, with grace and perfection. 

and the radiations of the manifestations of His Grace, Beauty and Perfection, as attested to by the disappearance of mirrors (of beings) and the flux of objects despite the permanent manifestation and constant reflection of the transcendent, eternal Grace and Beauty throughout all seasons, centuries, and ages, and by the perpetual bestowal of bounties throughout the passage of creatures, days, and people.

Indeed, a perfect work points, for an intellectual one, to a perfect act; a perfect act points, for an intelligent one, to a perfect title; a perfect title self-evidently points to a perfect attribute; a perfect attribute necessarily points to a perfect capacity; and a perfect capacity certainly points to the perfection of the Essence, the Agent, in a way proper for that Essence, Who is the Most Evident Truth.

The mortality of mirrors (wherein manifestations are reflected) and the decay of crea-tures, despite the perpetual manifestation (of the Titles, Attributes, and acts) in utmost abun-dance, is a clear sign and convincing argument that the manifest beauty does not belong to those on whom they are manifested. This is a most eloquent explanation and evident proof of the abstract Beauty and ever-renewed Benevolence, of the Necessarily Existent and the All-Loving, Permanent One.

O God. Bestow blessings on our master Muhammad from past eternity to future eternity to the number of things encompassed by Divine Knowledge, and on his Family and Companions, and bestow peace on peace.

[balioc]

Talkin’ About Outsiders

Riffing on my recent post:

If you wanted to keep something like the traditional D&D Great Wheel cosmology, and you wanted all the planes on the Wheel and all the various alignment-oriented races of outsiders to be cool and thematic and not-shoehorned-in, what would it look like?  Let’s give it a shot.  Maybe this will be useful someday, if I ever run a planar-savvy D&D campaign.  Or if you do.

Guiding Principles:

* All groups of outsiders should feel narratively resonant.  Players should have an intuitive sense of what they’re about, what role they would play in heroic fantasy stories, etc.  We want to avoid “oh yeah, those guys over in that corner, because of course there have to be some guys over in that corner.”

* Outsiders should feel otherworldly and mystical, like the spirits they are, not like Another Race of Monsters that’s been jammed into a planar role by fiat. 

* Outsiders should strongly reflect their associated alignment, but, like, in a cool way. 

I’m also going to be working with my own personal gut-level sense of how the alignment grid “should” work on a cosmic scale, which suggests that the “corner planes” -- LG, CG, LE, and CE -- are going to be the strongest, most magical, most populated, etc.  In a metaphysical sense, a strong good/evil commitment and a strong law/chaos commitment reinforce each other rather than diluting each other.  In a demographic sense, while in fact the plurality of mortals are TN due to vacillation or apathy, most noteworthy mortals with plane-defining levels of soul power have corner alignments.  In a pragmatic storycrafting sense, three of those four corners are way cooler and better-developed than anything else on the Wheel, so we should probably run with that.  The upshot is that the NG, NE, LN, and CN outsiders can and should be constructed such that they just have less impact on the universe overall.  The in-betweeny planes...well, they’re afterthoughts, we’ll get to them (briefly) but can ignore them for now.

OK.  Diving in:

Chaotic evil demons from the Abyss and lawful evil devils from Hell are being kept, more or less intact.  They’ve gotten more attention than any other planar races, by like an order of magnitude; they’ve got lots of existing lore and monster-design that people know and love; it would be a crime to throw that stuff away.  Fluff should probably try to present them with a somewhat more-philosophical, less-Flanderizing spin than they usually get.  The conceptual heart of demon-ness isn’t “graaaargh kill smash consume defile” (even if that is a popular instantiation), it’s something like “literally nothing matters except my desire and my vision.”  Similarly, devils would benefit from a little less “we’re all legalistic treacherous assholes” (even if many of them are) and a little more “the order of the universe is legitimate, the infernal hierarchy is legitimate, we follow the rules but we play to win.”  But fundamentally these are the creatures you know and love, don’t fix what ain’t broke. 

Neutral evil yugoloths can stay, too, more or less.  They’ve gotten a fair amount of good monster design too, and they’re popular, although I confess that I have no idea why.  A race of fiendish mercenaries who manipulate and prolong the Blood War?  Sure, why not?  I do want to give them a bit more character, though, and not the inexplicable apocalypse-obsessed death-spirit thing from Pathfinder.  Rather: as I understand it, neutral evil as an alignment is mostly about pure selfishness.  It’s not hard to capture the idea of “selfishness” in spiritual cosmic form -- that’s the gaki, the hungry ghost.  Yugoloths should be driven by intense insatiable cravings, presumably with each kind having a different general category of craving.  This will do a lot to define their politics internal and external, the means of treating with them, etc.  (Also, to be clear, “daemon” as an importantly-separate thing from “demon” is very silly and I have no truck with it.)

The collective term for demons, devils, and yugoloths is of course “fiends.”

The lawful neutral outsider race has already been covered in my previous post: that’s the fae.  Inhumanly perfect spirits obsessed with rules, oaths, codes-of-honor, etc.  Dangerous, and certainly not benevolent, but also not inimical to the flourishing of mortals in the way that fiends are.  Hard to understand, as all outsiders must on some level be, but probably easier to deal with than any other spirits if you know the right codes and protocols.  Probably we play down the “capricious nature spirit” thing and play up the bit where they have courts, monarchs, diplomatic ties to Heaven and Hell, etc.

The chaotic neutral race should be...well, something better than the slaadi, that’s for sure.  “They’re infinitely variable and unpredictable, except that they’re all magic frogs who speak in word salad.”  Gee.  Useful for storytelling, that.  I don’t have any super-brilliant ideas here (and am open to suggestions), but I have what I believe to be a good-enough idea: genies.  Proud, wild, tempestuous spirits who treasure their own freedom and dignity above all else.  Binding them can be a road to great power, since they’ll do pretty much anything to escape, but it’s also unbelievably risky.  You can make up some cute lore about their anarchic ad-hoc anything-goes society. 

I’d like to use “angels” as the collective term for good-aligned outsiders, the equivalent of “fiends.”  We could go with “celestials,” I guess, but it’s awkward that the LG plane specifically is (sometimes) called Celestia, and really “angels” has a connotative punch like nothing else. 

Lawful good gets archons.  Yay archons.  Tiered choirs, divine armies, holy holy holy, the whole shebang.  The fluff for these guys could stand to be fleshed out some -- as far as I know it hasn’t been touched since the 3.5e Book of Exalted Deeds, and that version was kinda lame -- but there’s like infinite amounts of Christian angelology lore on which to draw, so I’m not worried.

Neutral good needs something better than guardinals, since “benevolent animal dudes” really had no spiritual resonance at all.  Fortunately we can do some conceptual repurposing here. I think we can just grab the beings that D&D currently calls “angels,” start calling them all “devas” -- even the planetars and solars, which I guess become “planetary devas” and “solar devas” -- and stick them all in NG.  No one really uses them as all-purpose divine servants anyway, as far as I can tell.  They are beings of pure benevolence, protectors and guardians and healers, etc. etc.  Possibly we call the NG plane “Celestia,” to fit with the celestial-objects theme of the devas, and just go with “Heaven” for the LG plane.

And then we come to chaotic good, which is definitely the hardest row to hoe.  CG has a very important spot on the Great Wheel, the CG outsiders need to have something akin to the narrative power of the demons and devils and archons, and...I just don’t think there’s any pre-existing thing that fits the bill.  “Chaotic good” is not the kind of idea that has been traditionally associated with mighty spiritual mysteries, which is probably why all the existing CG outsider races suck so much.  (Seriously, as far as I can tell, it’s always either “we’re elf knights who fight for freedom! but, like, planar!” or “uh, we’re spirits of art and beauty, I guess, sorta?”) We’re going to have to develop these guys from scratch. 

Rather than trying to come up with an “archetypically CG outlook” or something, I think it would make sense to start with an image of their world and society.  This is a good, lovely, beneficent version of the Abyss.  This is a place of tremendous diversity, where outsider lords carve out their own domains according to their own idiosyncratic specifications.  Which means you have, like, a million conflicting little paradises each defined by its own vision.  (But not, like, at war, the way demon lords always are, we’re all very Good here.  Just...different from each other.)  It probably adds up to a sort of hipster’s-vision-of-the-big-city vibe.  You imagine a race of cosmic Manic Pixie Dream Girls, essentially, always flowing into and out of each other’s circles, descending to the Prime Material Plane in order to experience delights / inspire greatness / find adoring mortal fans who will validate their coolness. 

I think it would be a mistake to give these guys a single strong visual theme, the way that the guardinals are “animal people” and the eladrin are “pretty elves.”  They’re a menagerie of weird-but-beautiful monsters, the way that demons are a menagerie of weird-but-ugly monsters.  The race needs a name, but right now I don’t have a good one.

For true neutral outsiders, I think we can just go with elementals and call it a day.  They’re mindless!  They do as they’re commanded, unless they don’t, in which case they have incredibly simplistic urges like “burn” or “flow!” 

The in-between planes -- y’know, Gehenna, the Beastlands, Acheron, etc. -- are cool, in some vague theoretical sense, and I don’t think we should scrap them entirely.  But I also think it’s a mistake to try and give them their own full-fledged native outsider races, to pretend that they’re going to have the same depth of inherent character as the main eight outer planes, etc.  Instead, I suspect it’s best to use them as divine domains.  Because they don’t have powerful native outsider races, they’ve all been taken over by gods.  Exactly which gods live on which ones is a matter of your particular setting’s theology, but it makes a lot of intuitive sense to say “these are the places where you’d expect to find gods by default, a god who lives on one of the main eight planes is doing something kinda weird and probably has a close relationship with the local outsiders.”

[theboyswithasparebitofparchment]

Fantastic Beasts 2: Review

So, I just watched Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.  

And oh boy do I have something(S) to say...

Warning spoilers

The movie started off well: the orchestrated Grindelwald escape included the classic switcheroo vis a vis with Polyjuice, mid-air thestral-pulled-carriage fiasco and the pointless extermination of a weird lizard-like creature. (which I don’t understand why it was included at all, as its specimen wasn’t explained, and it served no purpose to the story)

And it went downhill very fast from there.  

I can’t even begin to explain the plot, as this movie had a billion subplots, unnecessary twists and too many infant murders for it to be comprehensible.  

Unlike the first installation, this movie had barely anything to do with actual beasts or the OG squad (Newt, Tina, Queenie and Jacob).  

But, it does includes Jacob under the influence of a love potion, France (need I say more), a wizard freakshow, Credence sad, human Nagini tagging along with said sad boy, Grindelwald killing French people ( babies too) and a giant Chinese lion-like creature (Zouwu: freaky eyes, quite cute, can run really fast)

I didn’t necessarily hate the movie though.

Some scenes were rather enjoyable I.e. the introduction of the aforementioned, Zouwu and a giant seaweed thing that Newt rides underwater.  

And I must admit, I did freak out in my chair when they showed FREAKING HOGWARTS with James Newton Howards’ ‘Hedwigs Theme’ playing alongside (I must admit, I did have goosebumps)

And yes, it was visually beautiful: Daniel Yates did a phenomenal job at directing it and piecing it together.

Despite all this...

the plot was lost, unstructured and confusing which probably led it to be boring.  

And these are my reasons why:

the embodiment of good, kindness and acceptance, goes haywire, barely gets any attention, becomes insecure in her relationship that is more than great and goes towards the dark side after a few minutes of talking to Grindelwald. Queenie Goldstein did not deserve that.

Dumbledore served no purpose, was barely on screen and again gave full responsibility in taking down a powerful, evil wizard, to a student. C'mon bro.

Leta Lestrange served no purpose to the story other than to reveal right at the end that she killed her half-brother baby, that her other half-brother is trying to kill, whom he thinks is Credence. (Confused? Me too)

Unnecessary baby killings.

Queerbaiting. Regarding each other as ‘more than brothers’ and then capturing Dumbledore seeing Grindelwald in the Mirror of Erised, thinking there’s more to it than that but it’s just so Rowling could mention their blood pact, nothing more.

Too many obscure side characters that served zero purposes to the story and were mentioned once and never showed up for the rest of the film. I.e the American minister of magic, every one of Grindelwald’s right- hand men and women, Newts co-worker, the entire ministry workers, the half-elf woman and red-haired woman that got avada-kedavared.

Main characters got lost as their characters weren’t well explained due to very little screen time and poor execution by writers I.e Theseus Scamander, Nagini, Dumbledore, McGonagall, Grindelwald, Leta, Yusuf (and family) etc.

Grindelwald was an ‘okay’ villain but he wasn’t really a standout villain: he kind of had no real authoritative demeanour or stature to him. He was just... meh.

The DAMN Timelines:  McGonagall was born in 1935 and the movie was set in 1927 ( unless she was a relative)

Dumbledore was a Transfiguration teacher before he was headmaster, not a DADA professor.  

Credence, again, served no purpose and was super annoying in the film, if I'm being honest.  I do feel for his character, as people are constantly manipulating him for him to side with them and are toying with his mental and physical health. All he wants is to find out who he is. I want to give him a hug, but he got boring and whiny real fast. Possibly due to bad script writing, sorry buddy.

But him being a relative if Dumbledore?!!!? Unforgivable.There were only three siblings: Aberforth, Ariana and Albus: who the fuck is Aurelius? (Which leads me to believe that Grindelwald was lying to him so he conspires against Dumbledore and gets Credence to kill him).  

I think the movies real crime was getting Rowling to write the screenplay.  Because, as much as I love her, she set it out as a novel, which is not a bad thing, but in cinematic format, it doesn’t work as well.  

The reason why the OG Potter films were such a hit was that they managed to condense it into bitesize chunks. Sure, they cut stuff out, but they made references towards it and in turn, made it well suited for cinema, which is why so many people liked them (you didn’t have to be a die-hard Potter fan to like and follow the story) They’re a pale reflection of the books, not an exact copy. (which I find best, in my opinion, as it saves that little extra magic preserved in its original source: the books)  

I feel like Rowling forgot what she originally wrote about and so tried to piece it together from scratch but it just didn’t work (as it didn’t go by unnoticed) 

She can’t pick and choose different plots without first fully explaining the original; it leads to confusion and annoyance.

I feel like she’s trying to combine two completely different stories into one, which isn’t great, for me anyway.  

I would just have enjoyed a series (or one movie) solely based on the bumbling, lovable zoologist that showcased his vibrant and brilliant view of the weird and wonderful creatures around him and join the adventures he embarks with his friends (and maybe a few small nods to the OG Harry Potter realm) but remain separate from it and stand on its own.  

Or create just a prequel to the Harry Potter series and focus only on the origin story of Dumbledore and his battle and complicated relationship with Grindelwald and family. Trying to mix both? It’s a no from me, unfortunately.  

The one thing that bugged me, was when I left the cinema...

I didn’t have that FEELING.

You know, feeling infinite, as though you can take on the world (after watching a great movie).

However, I was just left feeling disappointed and confused.

I really enjoyed the first film but this movie missed the mark for me. I hope the final instalments are better and slightly less confusing but unlike Professor Trewlawney, I do not possess the noble art of divination, so I do not know for certain.

[prayer-experience]

Tues 7/12/22

Divine Nature: I've watched two videos on personal style from lady speakers. Knowing yourself and how you come into this world and what makes you feel like a woman will help you to find and project your groove more authentically into the world and inevitably lifting your spirit. I've found that I have a relaxed natural, graceful nature that I've substituted for structure which never felt authentic to me. Structure was a survival mechanism that I used to protect the childhood of my younger siblings hoping to save my family in the process of fulfilling roles that were never mine to take on. I've noticed through time that I've loved subdued colors. I love rich patterns by distinguished texture and shade in color surrounding nature. Nature enlivens who I am. I could always see the slight difference of everything around me. It helped me to appreciate beauty of the ordinary through time. I never looked at anything as a uniformed body but as an orchestra of various sounds to create a flow. I love the calm and the stillness and the wonder by which I can absorb all around me as an introvert and a highly sensitive person. I love the arts and their symphonic colors and melodies because I see into their intricacies more keenly and it keeps my hope alive. Cutting my hair was a wonderful first step of change for me. My hair grows naturally long and if I care more for my countenance perhaps I'll feel more connected to who I naturally am in a wide world. I'm a tiny part of this universe, yet my sounds matter in the crowds. Who knows how I'll find my groove in the spirit that I'm inclined to share as I become more comfortable in my skin. Perhaps my fruits can be identified better by what I wear. I can't go shopping because we are tight on money but I can still explore with what I have, what I truly love.

Repentance: Last night I had trouble with my thoughts again due to my trauma. I tried reading the Book of Mormon aloud in my language and I felt like crying. The first thing I did as soon as I got up was begin to save all the powerful scriptures I would need to help me claim my autonomy over mind and soul. God gives us the word to heal and I'm still trying to find my way through my own busy traffic jam.

God: "Let me fill in the gaps" Between listening to a monk online and reflecting on Scripture, I heard this voice almost as if it was directed towards me through a monk. Maybe this is God encouraging me to let him in as I dive into the undertaking of this future podcast. I do know that I need God this day for me as I was kind of all over the place today. I've been thinking of Amulek and all the sacrifices he made to do God's ultimate will. Maybe these two things tie into eachother.

Calling: I've been watching Joyce Meyer on utilizing your gifts for the way they were supposed to be used in God's purpose. She encouraged all to stay in their lane and do what naturally comes to us because God awaits us to work his miracles in accordance to our Faith in what we are called to do. I'm best at studying and acquiring gems from the Word of God. I'm learning how to teach better and I do have special receptivity of the Spirit. I had an answer to a prayer to start a podcast but I don't know how and what for. I thought of doing it for the youth. Youth feel like an important part of my mission in life perhaps mainly through my own children as it outlines in my Patriachal Blessing. I'll have to see what and how I should go about it. Should I just jump in blind. I'm not good to conversate with as I do lack those social skills since my childhood, so I'm not sure why God mentioned that as something he desires of me when I could express myself better through writing. Being a thinker, risks are sometimes a last resort. I don't know what could be until I try.

[veale2006-blog]

Words of Wisdom for Daily Life 5/22/21 1. What Is Pride? There is nothing into which the heart of man so easily falls as PRIDE, and yet there is no vice which is more frequently, more emphatically, and more eloquently condemned in Scripture.

Pride is a groundless thing. It standeth on the sands; or worse than that, it puts its foot on the billows which yield beneath its tread; or, worse still, it stands on bubbles, which soon must burst beneath its feet. Of all things pride has the worst foothold; it has no solid rock on earth whereon to place itself. We have reasons for almost everything, but we have no reasons for pride. Pride is a thing which should be unnatural to us, for we have nothing to be proud of.

Again, it is a brainless thing as well as a groundless thing; for it brings no profit with it. There is no wisdom in a self-exaltation. Other vices have some excuse, for men seem to gain by them; avarice, pleasure, lust, have some plea; but the man who is proud sells his soul cheaply. He opens wide the flood-gates of his heart, to let men see how deep is the flood within his soul; then suddenly it floweth out, and all is gone—and all is nothing, for one puff of empty wind, one word of sweet applause—the soul is gone, and not a drop is left. In almost every other sin, we gather up the ashes when the fire is gone; but here, what is left? The covetous man hath his shining gold, but what hath the proud man? He has less than he would have had without his pride, and is no gainer whatever. Pride wins no crown; men never honour it, not even the menial slaves of earth; for all men look down on the proud man, and think him less than themselves.

Again, pride is the maddest thing that can exist; it feeds upon its own vitals; it will take away its own life, that with its blood it may make a purple for its shoulders; it sappeth and undermineth its own house that it may build its pinnacles a little higher, and then the whole structure tumbleth down. Nothing proves men so mad as pride.

Then pride is a protean thing; it changes its shape; it is all forms in the world; you may find it in any fashion you may choose; you may see it in the beggar's rags as well as in the rich man's garments. It dwells with the rich, and with the poor. The man without a shoe to his foot may be as proud as if he were riding in a chariot. Pride can be found in every rank of society—among all classes of men. Sometimes it is an Arminian, and talks about the power of the creature; then it turns Calvinist, and boasts of its fancied security, forgetful of the Maker, who alone can keep our faith alive. Pride can profess any form of religion; it may be a Quaker, and wear no collar to its coat; it may be a Churchman, and worship God in splendid cathedrals; it may be a Dissenter, and go to the common meeting-house; it is one of the most Catholic things in the world, it attends all kinds of chapels and churches; go where you will, you will see pride. It cometh up with us to the house of God; it goeth with us to our houses; it is found on the mart and the exchange, in the streets, and everywhere.

Let me hint at one or two forms which it assumes. Sometimes pride takes the doctrinal shape; it teaches the doctrine of self-sufficiency; it tells us what man can do, and will not allow that we are lost, fallen, debased, and ruined creatures, as we are. It hates divine sovereignty, and rails at election. Then, if it is driven from that, it takes another form; it allows that the doctrine of free grace is true, but does not feel it. It acknowledges that salvation is of the Lord alone, but still it prompts men to seek heaven by their own works, even by the deeds of the law. And when driven from that, it will persuade men to join something with Christ in the matter of salvation; and when that is all rent up, and the poor rag of our righteousness is all burned, pride will get into the Christian's heart as well as the sinner's—it will flourish under the name of self-sufficiency, teaching the Christian that he is "rich and increased in goods, having need of nothing." It will tell him that he does not need daily grace, that past experience will do for to-morrow—that he knows enough, toils enough, prays enough. It will make him forget that he has "not yet attained:" it will not allow him to press forward to the things that are before, forgetting the things that are behind. It enters into his heart, and tempts the believer to set up an independent business for himself, and until the Lord brings about a spiritual bankruptcy, pride will keep him from going to God. Pride has ten thousand shapes; it is not always that stiff and starched gentleman that you picture; it is a vile, creeping, insinuating thing, that will twist itself like a serpent into our hearts. It will talk of humility, and prate about being dust and ashes. I have known men talk about their corruption most marvellously, pretending to be all humility, while at the same time they were the proudest wretches that could be found this side the gulf of separation. O my friends! ye cannot tell how many shapes pride will assume. Look sharp about you, or you will be deceived by it, and when you think you are entertaining angels, you will find you have been receiving devils unawares.

The true throne of pride everywhere is the heart of man. If we desire, by God's grace, to put down pride, the only way is to begin with the heart.

Now let me tell you a parable in the form of an eastern story, which will set this truth in its proper light. A wise man in the east, called a dervish, in his wanderings, came suddenly upon a mountain, and he saw beneath his feet a smiling valley, in the midst of which there flowed a river. The sun was shining on the stream, and the water, as it reflected the sunlight, looked pure and beautiful. When he descended, he found it was muddy, and the water utterly unfit for drinking. Hard by he saw a young man, in the dress of a shepherd, who was with much diligence filtering the water for his flocks. At one moment he poured some water into a pitcher, and then allowing it to stand, after it had settled, he poured the clean fluid into a cistern. Then, in another place, he would be seen turning aside the current for a little, and letting it ripple over the sand and stones, that it might be filtered and the impurities removed. The dervish watched the young man endeavouring to fill a large cistern with clear water; and he said to him, "My son, why all this toil?—what purpose dost thou answer by it? "The young man replied, "Father, I am a shepherd; this water is so filthy that my flock will not drink it, and, therefore, I am obliged to purify it little by little, so I collect enough in this way that they may drink; but it is hard work." So saying, he wiped the sweat from his brow, for he was exhausted with his toil. "Right well hast thou laboured," said the wise man, "but dost thou know thy toil is not well applied? With half the labour thou mightest attain a better end. I should conceive that the source of this stream must be impure and polluted; let us take a pilgrimage together and see." They then walked some miles, climbing their way over many a rock, until they came to a spot where the stream took its rise. When they came near to it, they saw flocks of wild fowls flying away, and wild beasts of the earth rushing into the forest; these had come to drink, and had soiled the water with their feet. They found an open well, which kept continually flowing, but by reason of these creatures, which perpetually disturbed it, the stream was always turbid and muddy. "My son," said the wise man, "set to work now to protect the fountain and guard the well, which is the source of this stream; and when thou hast done that, if thou canst keep these wild beasts and fowls away, the stream will flow of itself, all pure and clear, and thou wilt have no longer need for thy toil." The young man did it, and as he laboured, the wise man said to him, "My son, hear the word of wisdom; if thou art wrong, seek not to correct thine outward life, but seek first to get thy heart correct, for out of it are the issues of life, and thy life shall be pure when once thy heart is so." So if we would get rid of pride, we should not proceed to arrange our dress by adopting some special costume, or to qualify our language by using an outlandish tongue; but let us seek of God that he would purify our hearts from pride, and then assuredly, if pride is purged from the heart, our life also shall be humble. Make the tree good, and then the fruit shall be good; make the fountain pure, and the stream shall be sweet.

Galatians 5:13 13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?

Love, Debbie