#so the strength of our bond must truly be unmatched

[ceaseless-rambler]

What is dnd for if not making your dm want you dead for your stupid bits. And also flirting with them

[homedecor-shop-online]

The Symbolism Behind Ram Darbar Statues: Exploring the Divine Connections

Ram Darbar depicts our favourite deities from the epic Ramayana. The depiction includes Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Rama's brother, Lord Lakshmana, and his greatest devotee, Lord Hanuman. It offers a timeless interpretation of sacrifice, duty, love, and commitment. The intricate details in the sculptures and paintings of Ram Darbar capture the essence of each character's personality and role in the epic. This depiction serves as a constant reminder of the values and teachings found in the Ramayana, inspiring devotion and reverence among followers. In this blog, we will reveal the heavenly relationships portrayed in the Ram Darbar Statue and the important lessons they teach.

What Every Deity From Ram Darbar Statue Signify

Lord Rama: The Perfect Husband and King

Lord Rama is considered a Purshotam, meaning the best among men. As the embodiment of all that is good, Lord Rama is the height of righteousness and the perfect husband and king. His steadfast love, respect, and unmatched devotion are evident in his relationship with Devi Sita. Because of his compassion, bravery, and humility, Rama is a highly regarded hero in Hindu tradition and a beacon of hope for followers looking for moral and spiritual direction. The nature and personality of Lord Rama are truly an inspiration for today’s youth.

Devi Sita: The Personification of Love and Virtue

The embodiment of feminine characteristics, Maa Sita, represents strength, purity, and unflinching devotion. Her unconditional love and unwavering support for Lord Rama, even in the face of hardship, embodies true devotion and selflessness. Maa Sita was born as a princess and lived in huge palaces, yet she had the capabilities and inner strength to adapt to forest life. This is a valuable lesson for young girls and their parents to make their child capable and courageous so they can confidently face challenges that life throws at them.

Lakshmana: The Faithful Sibling and Companion

Lakshmana, Lord Ram’s younger brother, is a representation of devotion, sacrifice, and unflinching commitment. The moment he knew Lord Rama would spend the next 14 years of his life in the forest, without any second thought, he accompanied him. Like a good companion, he never left his brother’s side and played a huge role in helping Lord Rama win the war. His steadfast commitment to serving Rama and defending Devi Sita is a prime example of the value of brotherhood and the need to carry out one's obligations with the highest sincerity and devotion.

Hanuman: The Divine Devotee

Hanuman, the god of great sanctity and a devoted follower of Lord Rama, is the epitome of selflessness, humility, and unshakable devotion. Even in the Ram Darbar statue, we see Lord Hanuman kneeling and surrendering his powers to Lord Rama. His essential role in the Ramayana, from helping to find Devi Sita to being instrumental in the fight against Ravana, exemplifies the strength of unflinching faith and loyalty in the face of adversity. Lord Hanuman is greatly linked with ego. Being one of the most powerful beings to ever live, Lord Hanuman always used his power for Lord Rama, meaning he was never selfish or had pride about his power. He teaches us that no matter how powerful or capable you are, always use them for the greater good rather than for yourself.

Vastu Tips for Placing Ram Darbar in Your House

Place the Ram Darbar marble statue in the northeastern corner of your house, ideally in your pooja ghar, and ensure the idol is facing west.

You must place the idol on an elevated wooden or marble platform. Do not place the idol on the ground.

Regularly clean the idol and platform with a soft piece of cloth before offering your prayers.

Light a diya or lamp near the Ram Darbar and offer fruits or satvik food every day.

Ram Darbar is one of the most popular gifts for housewarming ceremonies because it shows a beautiful bond between family members.

Conclusion

Ram Darbar is a timeless representation of heavenly relationships and values that provides devotees and seekers with significant insights and teachings. A beacon of light, the relationship between Lord Rama, Devi Sita, Lord Lakshmana, and Lord Hanuman pushes humanity in the direction of devotion, righteousness, and love. As we reflect on the divine relationships found in Ram Darbar, may we absorb the eternal teachings and values they represent, guiding us in the direction of enlightenment, inner serenity, and spiritual development.

If you are looking to buy a Ram Darbar statue for your house, you can check out Satguru’s. They are one of the best home decor shops in Mumbai. Their marble Ram Darbar is beautifully crafted with intricate details and amazing colours. Along with Ram Darbar, you can also find other God idols like the Radha-Krishna statue, the Shiva statue, the Ganesha statue, and more. Visit Satguru’s to learn more about their products.

[wild-adventures]

The Bitter Revelation:

Letting Go of an Illusory Love

Shawna Loree

Love has a peculiar way of deceiving us, blinding our senses to the flaws and shortcomings of those we hold most dear. It is a tale of shattered dreams and unfulfilled promises, as I recount my journey towards a heart-wrenching realization that I had been clutching onto hope in a relationship devoid of any genuine connection. In the midst of longing for a power couple dynamic, all I found was emptiness and a painful lack of authentic communication. This essay unravels the layers of deceit, disappointment, and personal growth that accompanied my emancipation from a relationship built on the crumbling foundation of lies.

The roots of our relationship were nurtured by the tender blossoms of hope, promising a bond that defied the ordinary. Yet, as time wore on, those petals shriveled and lost their luster, revealing a stark reality that I had been oblivious to. I finally saw through the veil of my own desires, recognizing that he had always looked out for his own interests, never pausing to appreciate my worth or offer the slightest compliment.

The realization that our relationship thrived on disconnection struck me with a force that left me gasping for air. How had I been so blind, so consumed by my own desires that I failed to perceive the glaring signs? We, who could have been a power couple, dissipated into mere adversaries, bickering over trivial matters rather than uniting in a foundation of trust and respect. Every conversation was filled with hidden agendas and manipulative tactics, further dividing what possibly could have been a union of strength.

Communication, an indispensable cornerstone of any meaningful relationship, was nothing more than a facade in ours. His words danced artfully, masquerading as truths, while my heart yearned for him to reveal his vulnerabilities and deepest musings. Yet, our connection was but a mirage, an illusion that, upon reflection, only served his egoistic purposes. I drowned in the overwhelming chasm between his projected persona and the emptiness of his true self, bereft of the emotional sustenance I so desperately craved.

The lies that he wove around his character proved to be the most tormenting aspect of our relationship. Like a skilled artist, he painted an image of a man whose integrity were unmatched, captivating me with his words and actions. But behind the canvas, he cultivated a veritable garden of deception. Layer by layer, his facades crumbled, revealing a man void of substance, empathy, and compassion. It was in that dissolution that I grieved for the loss of what could have been, shedding tears for the countless moments I had wasted investing in a relationship built on rotting foundations.

The journey towards realizing that our relationship possessed no genuine hope was a monumental and profoundly emotional one. I learned the painful truth that love does not always conquer all, for it must be accompanied by mutual respect, trust, and vulnerability. By accepting the flaws and shortcomings I had ignored for far too long, I uncovered my own strength and resilience. I now embark on a new chapter, armed with the knowledge that I am deserving of a love that is built on genuineness, shared dreams, and authentic communication. I bid farewell to those shards of hope and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead, knowing that true happiness awaits in a relationship where my heart will be valued, cherished, and truly understood.

[chaozsilhouette]

A Revealing Performance

My rendition for the Shadow Play in @winterpower98's Swap Au.

It was supposed to be a simple thing, then it sort of spiraled into this whole deal. For the effects of the Shadow Lantern, I drew some inspiration from her Cursed Au as I never thought simply using her friends was cruel enough for the Monkey Tyrant.

It serves to show just how far Macaque has grown, but also to highlight just how monstrous he was.

_____________________________

Mei refrained from downing her bubble tea as she waited for the play to start. It had been a rough couple of weeks with Spider Queen and that creepy girl. And failing to find where Xiaotian had run off to after the misunderstanding. When Macaque sent her tickets to the local theatre, she was ashamed to think it was a trap.

Pigsy and Sandy were right. After everything that happened, she needed some serious me time. She had been too stressed.

Besides, everyone knew Macaque was a total theatre nerd. Few people knew that the star puppeteer was actually the Six-Eared Macaque himself. He would totally send her tickets from his stomping grounds as a way to unwind.

It was a shame that Tang couldn’t join them. Apparently, he finally managed to schedule a meeting with the Celestial Realm and was Taking the demon brothers to figure out a new way of sealing the Monkey Tyrant. It was also his chance to explain their little break-in during New Years. He encouraged her to have fun and if it was good, he’d join them for the next showing.

So here they were waiting for the performance to start. Although she wondered what the fake mayor was doing here. They hadn't seen him since he gave her the skeleton key. Still wasn't sure why he had it or why he gave it to her? Supposedly she was only supposed to have it for a day, but he never stopped by to pick it up.

_____________________________

Sun Wukong was a monkey of many talents, but even he had to admit Macaque was a far better storyteller and his mastery of shadows was sheer perfection. But that just made this plan all the more perfect. What better way to teach his wayward beloved’s little flower a lesson than through a trusted medium.

Obtaining a spot in the local theatre was child’s play, a little magic and they were all but begging him to take center stage. Apparently, they had been scrambling to find a new performer after their star puppeteer had to leave for a family emergency (three guesses as to who that was). And with a little glamor, a set of tickets was left at the little flower's doorstep. As far as she knew, Macaque was proud of her progress and believed she had deserved a reward for all her hard work. She was so desperate for something to go right she hardly questioned how her mentor, who was in parts unknown, managed to secure tickets for a new performer.

In his personal dressing room, Wukong delicately touched up his human disguise. Even if he was going to be hidden in his hanfu and cloak, it wouldn’t do to spoil the surprise. Applying his eye shadow with artful flair, the Monkey King took time to appreciate just how handsome he truly was no matter what form he took. Honestly, who would have thought such perfection existed?

A pulse of dark magic drew his attention to his latest partner in crime.

The Shadow Lantern gently floated before him. Its dark magic practically purring at the thought of being used. Wukong could almost laugh at his beloved’s foolishness. He was there when his darling created the lantern, when he infused his own shadows into its very foundation. Did he honestly think such a masterpiece would tolerate being left to collect dust in a cave?

Normally a magical artifact would never consider turning on its master, but after centuries of abandonment, all Wukong had to do was whisper his intentions to return Macaque to his former self to secure its loyalty. The second he first made contact, he could sense a twisted hunger writhing within and with each performance granting it the chance to feed on the life essence of the viewers…. hehe, he almost couldn’t contain himself.

Looking up at the clock, he saw it was just about time for his next performance. His clones had reported the girl’s presence along with the pig and the water demon. Strangely the one with glasses and the little matchstick was absent. No matter, he could make do with two hostages just fine.

After all, the show must go on.

_____________________________

The overhead lights dimmed, signaling the start of the play. Smoke slowly poured from beneath the floorboards, generating an air of mystery. In a flash of golden light, a tall man wearing a beautiful cloak manifested on center stage. The crowd silenced themselves at the display.

“Welcome viewers to a performance you shall never forget!” From the folds of his sleeves, an exquisite lantern floated in front of him. A mesmerizing yet familiar purple glow emanating from the center.

“Our tale tonight is one of love, companionship, and how even the strongest of bonds can be severed through the trickery of the wicked.”

In the background, the shadows twisted and grew in the lantern’s light. Carefully they formed a beautiful scene of a mountain covered in flowers and trees. Attention was gradually guided to the top, where a round stone basked in the sun.

“It all began with the birth of a King.”

The round stone broke, revealing a figure that resembled a monkey. But no, this was a monkey demon, a monkie if you would. The King journeyed down the mountain until he found a tribe of normal monkeys. The group frolicked for a while as the King established himself as the undisputed ruler of the tribe.

A large figure with an ax appeared. The monster brought down his ax upon a small collection of monkeys only to be stopped at the last second by the King. The King used his superior strength to steal the demon’s ax and used it to decapitate the intruder in a single stroke. The monkeys jumped around the King and praised his strength, but the King did not appear satisfied.

“The young King was born with great power and strength, but he sought out more to protect his people.”

The King crafted a raft and set out on a dangerous sea. The King was shown to face off against mountain gods, human warriors, and demonic sorcerers always to reign victorious but never satisfied.

“In his travels, he learned much and faced many enemies, in time his efforts were handsomely rewarded.”

The King climbed a fleet of stairs carved into a mountain to reach a humble monastery. At the top, a stern human stood, but behind him was another monkie. This one however possessed six ears.

“His quest for power led him to a Warrior of potential equaling his own. At first, neither was sure how to react to their mirror, but they quickly forged a comradery that took them far.”

The two monkies trained together, mastering new powers as they sparred.

“Their time together increased their power exponentially and as they grew stronger their feelings blossomed into something beautiful.”

The two were on a cliff overlooking the stars, slowly leaning closer to one another. Eventually, the two faced their opposite and leaned in close.

“Their fates had become intertwined. Their power was unmatched. It was then the King realized what he had been searching for all this time.”

The two shadows merged together in a complex dance until they separated into two beings once again, but not as they began. The two monkeys were now garbed in elaborate, yet practical armor and silks. The King wielded a staff and the Warrior took up a spear.

“Slowly their strength grew to where nothing could challenge them, whether in the Celestial Realm or on Earth.”

The King and Warrior were shown battling heavenly armies and powerful demons with confident smirks. Each battle resoundingly won through their combination of speed, strength, and cunning.

“But it was not enough. The King wished to ensure that he and the Warrior would be able to fight together forever and sought the power and respect needed to secure their future.”

The King took to the Heavens, where he stood before an Emperor in the most extravagant outfit, surrounded by massive guards in magical armor. The Emperor was clearly afraid as the King effortlessly toppled one guard after another, slowly approaching the throne at a steady pace.

“The King’s noble actions were viewed negatively by those who feared his ever-growing power. Eventually, a prison was crafted that could restrain the King, one that not even his beloved Warrior could destroy.”

Just before the King’s latest attack could reach the Emperor, chains wrapped around his limbs and dragged him down to Earth. With a quick flex, the chains shattered, but the King was doomed as a mountain landed on him with a seal placed at the top. The Warrior tried to pry off the seal or find some way to weaken the mountain, his acts growing more desperate with time, yet nothing worked.

“Cruelly, the King was forced to wait until he could be freed, forced to watch his precious Warrior defend their Kingdom on his own.”

With a heavy expression, the Warrior abandoned his efforts to return to the original mountain as dozens of terrifying figures surrounded the monkey inhabitants.

“Centuries passed and their love still burned strong. Soon their patience was rewarded, the King was freed but he was soon trapped in a new prison.”

A monk approached the mountain and removed the seal. The King swiftly destroyed the mountain. The monk humbly bowed to the King and offered fresh clothing and a fillet. The King garbed himself in the gifts only to collapse in agony when the monk prayed.

“Enraged the King played along until the time was right. The King and the Warrior reunited in secret and crafted a plan that would allow them to take their revenge on those that dared to separate them.”

The two monkies hugged and nuzzled each other in appreciation. A quick conversation later, the Warrior changed to resemble the King and joined the monk as the King headed into unknown lands.

“Decades later the King was ready to retrieve his love, confident in his regained strength. But when he arrived the Warrior had changed. It was as if the warrior had lost a crucial part of himself. The Warrior tried to dissuade the King from killing the monk and his companions. He even tried to convince him to give up his rage at the Celestial Realm, believing the war that would ensue wasn't worth it.”

The disguised Warrior was traveling with four colorful characters. The King dropped from the sky in front of the group, a massive crater forming around him. The Warrior regained his true form, but instead of returning to his rightful place, he blocked the King’s view of the monk.

“The King could not believe his ears. This could not be his Warrior. His love always understood his goals and knew why heaven had to pay. The King knew this change was the monk’s fault. The King moved to silence the deceiver in one quick strike only to find it blocked by the Warrior.”

The King and Warrior exchanged blows that tore mountains asunder, split the heavens, and burned down forests. The other demons following the monk tried to aid the warrior, but nothing they did seemed to slow down the King, if anything their attacks only served to further enrage him.

“The two clashed until the Warrior fled with the jailers. Time and time again they clashed, but never could the King reach the Warrior he held in his heart.”

The group fled from the battle, but time and time again the King tracked them down. The locations may have changed, but the carnage after each battle remained as world-shattering as the first. In the end, the Group managed to truly escape, and the Warrior vanished into the shadows he wielded, leaving the King alone with nothing but his memories.

“Even now the King yearns for the companionship of his beloved Warrior, knowing that at his core the Warrior craves the same.”

With the final line sending shivers down the spines of the viewers, the puppeteer vanished in a flash of light.

_____________________________

As Mei waited for her family to walk out, she couldn’t help but think about the play. It almost sounded like they were telling the tale of the Monkey King. But that was ridiculous. No one knew the Monkey King’s origins aside from minor details from the Journey to the West. Besides the narrator seemed to view the Monkey Tryant as a hero and victim. Clearly, that guy needed a reality check.

“Hello, young one.” Nearly choking on the remainder of her tea, Mei turned to see the puppeteer standing behind her with a knowing smile.

His cloak shrouding the top of his face in shadow. For a second, Mei envisioned her father Macaque. He would adore that look. Actually, didn’t she see a similar outfit in his closet on Flower Fruit Mountain? Doesn’t he wear that outfit when he’s hosting a shadow play?

Wait. How did he sneak up on her like that? Was she that out of it?

How long has she been quiet? Crap! Say something! “Oh. Ah-hello. C-can I help you with something?”

“I was about to ask the same. You do know the theatre is going to close soon right?”

“What?” Mei grabbed her phone. The digital clock flashed that it was past nine. That couldn’t be right. That meant she had been waiting for nearly an hour. But where were the others? Surely, they wouldn’t have left without telling her. Were they in trouble?

“Is everything alright?”

“Ah- yeah, everything’s fine.” It’s cool. It’s cool. She could handle this. She just needed to stay calm. “No need to worry about me. I just ah-I have a few questions about your play.”

“Yes.”

“How did you could up with the concept? I mean, no offense, but your premise could be taken the wrong way.” Maybe it was the panic over where her family had disappeared to, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being sized up.

“Hm. Have you ever heard the expression ‘History is written by the winners’?”

“Yes. It’s pretty common.” Like one of the most used sayings in the world.

“The tale was designed to show that love is one of the most cherished feelings of all and that in order to protect it, one must be willing to do anything to keep their loved ones safe. The King only wished to keep his beloved by his side, but the Warrior was misled and forced to battle against his love. That story may belong to only two, but similar tales can be experienced in anyone’s life. Tell me, can you think of a time you fought with those you cared about due to a misunderstanding?”

Without even considering it, horrible memories resurfaced. Mei arguing with MK as she tried to stop him from leaving with the newly released Monkey King. Mei forced to battle Red Son as his mind was slowly consumed by the True Fire of Samadhi. Tang lying to them about his true identity. Macaque leaving when they needed him most without saying why.

“I see you can.” The puppeteer gently guided her back into the main hall, where she took a seat on an empty bench.

“It’s nothing. I just-” She honestly didn’t know why she was pouring out her heart to stranger. Maybe she really was that exhausted. “-there’s so much going on and I’m supposed to be strong no matter what. But sometimes it hurts, just thinking about all my mistakes. Sometimes I wonder if I truly am strong. What if bringing me into this was a mistake?”

“What if it was?” That voice!

Mei turned to see Macaque garbed in a strange outfit, one that honestly reminded her of the Monkey King’s. She was confused. She had never seen him wear anything like that, he looked like the Monkey King’s twisted shadow.

And that expression! Her father Macaque had never made that face before. It looked as though he was reveling in her suffering.

“What’s the matter, little jade? Don’t worry, I won’t leave you alone.” He extended a hand slowly with the intent to cradle her face. A normal gesture he would use to comfort her, but her every instinct was screaming at her to get away.

Mei jumped to her feet and pulled out her spear, aiming it right between the imposter’s eyes. “Enough games!”

Macaque stared at the spear for a second, his fiendish expression only growing more vicious. He threw his head back with a full-bodied laugh, showing how little he thought of her threat. “Ha. Ha. Ha.”

In a flash of light, the Monkey Tyrant was standing before her, still wearing his puppeteer disguise. “Wow. About time. For a while, I was wondering if you’d ever figure out it was me.” His red and gold eyes carefully roved over her body, taking in every shake and fearful twitch. “Put down the spear, kid. We both know you’re not nearly good enough to scratch me with such a pitiful copy of the Dragon Blade.”

That may have been true, but she’d sooner make out with DBP in full view of Queen Iron Fan than leave herself completely open before this tyrant. “So the play was from your perspective. I always figured you were delusional, but this is a new low. Where is my family?” She all but growled, unknowingly her canines had slightly elongated in response to her rage.

“They never left. I’m surprised you didn’t recognize this.” The Monkey King took out the lantern, once more bathing the room in that familiar glow.

“What’s the big deal about a lantern?”

The stone monkie found her ignorance all the more entertaining. To think he hadn’t warned her of his own past.

“The big deal is that my dear warrior crafted this lantern long ago. It was his finest work and like everything he made it has multiple uses.” With a simple hand gesture, the silhouettes of Pigsy and Sandy appeared on the walls. “The Shadow Lantern can do more than enhance one’s skills in shadow magic, it can trap the bodies and souls of its targets. So long as the targets are trapped, the lantern can steal the shadows of its victims so its master can use them as a personal army until there is nothing left.”

“You expect me to believe Macaque made something so disgusting?” Even as Mei said it, she couldn’t help but recognize how similar the lantern’s magic was to her teacher’s. It was cool and soothing, but on the edge, there was an unmistakable edge of malice. “Even if he did, I doubt he made it without you whispering in his ears.”

“Oh child, you have no idea how many secrets he keeps from you. Let me share one with you.” The lantern grew brighter, and the silhouettes of her family members gained more substance as they peeled away from the walls.

Mei adjusted herself so all opponents were in her sight, but nothing could stop the sweat collecting on her forehead.

She sensed something powerful appear behind her. Jumping out of the way as a spear nearly severed her arm. She faced her new opponent. Only to almost drop her weapon.

Standing before her was another copy of Macaque only this one was even more disturbing. Its eyes burned with purple light, the shadows loving curled around it, but worst of all was the sneer filled with razor-tipped teeth.

“Did you honestly think my love was always so nice?”

[shipwreckseemssweet]

10 Figure Skating programs I love

With the FS off-season--and all related drama revelations--in full bloom, what better time to look back on beloved programs new and old.

Here are ten outstanding pieces (singles disciplines only) from the last couple of seasons that I managed to find online. I feel a bit guilty about not having put in Marin’s Romeo & Juliet. :(

10. Wakaba Higuchi - Skyfall (FS)

The best FS performance of the 2018 Worlds! I must admit I wasn’t a big Wakaba fan until this season. In my prejudiced view, I considered her too rough around the edges. Then she rolled out this season’s programs and I was sold. What’s more, she owned her FS - a mix of Bond music including Adele’s Skyfall - more than any other of her competitors. From her sleek dress to her cool final spin, Wakaba makes a case for a Bond girl movie starring her. And if her electrifying performance is any indication, it’ll be one to remember. The choreography unleashes all her power while funneling it in purposeful and creative ways, never letting the tension disperse. The crazy fast 3Lz3T may be her main weapon, but it’s the step sequence that steals the show.

9. Patrick Chan - Dear Prudence/Blackbird (SP)

I couldn’t skip over Patrick, our newly retired King of Skating Skills. Dear Prudence/Blackbird by The Beatles signaled his last great season and a return to form. A very good return, despite his jump ailments. If anyone can measure up to 60s pop rock, it’s Patrick with his effortless, flowing, confident skating. His classic elegance and somewhat old-fashion charm seem to recall a bygone idyllic spring. These are songs about inner awakening and struggles; about finding a place you belong. They seem to reflect Parick’s journey to reinvent himself. At the same time, Dear Prudence is about the beauty of nature: "The sun is up, the sky is blue, it's beautiful,” and it’s the pure feeling of connection to the music that stays with you.

8. Javier Fernandez -  Malagueña (SP)

Another great skater on his way out. Coming into Helsinki as the defending World champion, Javier managed to skate this short program cleanly in its two-quad glory. For me this is his finest, most sophisticated SP to date. (I welcome the absence of comical elements.) Certain programs can only be performed to their fullest potential when given another season to grow, and Malagueña is a perfect example. It’s all about getting into character, making every movement count. Obviously, having Javier perform the flamenco - choreographed by a Spanish ballet director - and go the extra mile on every element really adds to the authenticity of the program. His effortless skating is just a rung below Patrick and Yuzuru. This is what an energetic and mesmerizing skate looks like!

7. Mao Asada - Ritual Fire Dance (SP/FS)

If Mao can’t make you love figure skating nobody can. All my favorite skaters use their bodies as silent musical instruments and Mao is the leader of the pack. Her musicality, arm movements, footwork, versatility, attention to choreography and emotional projection are absolutely unmatched. In what turned out to be her swan song, all her best qualities shine through. Portraying a mysterious black bird, Mao transformed the piano version of Manuel de Falla’s ballet with her charismatic, soft interpretation. Every step and turn, every detail of the performance appears uninhibited yet polished. She has reached a level of fluidity and complexity where jump errors no longer detract from the overall quality. Also, I love the ponytail.

6. Boyang Jin - Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (SP)

Boyang is one of my recent favs despite there being room for growth in his skating and other components. Beyond the excitement of watching a young skater evolve, I think he has great potential in every area and will just get better with time. His jumps are already prodigious, his performances iconic. Underlying this program is the idea to present a more complete (and serious) version of B for the Olympic season as well as blend in Chinese elements. Unfortunately I don’t think he got the recognition he deserved. Infused with the right mix of composure and energy, this is an atmospheric character-based program that wonderfully shows his refinements in interpretation and control of edges. That step sequence is *fire*.

5. Carolina Kostner - Ne Me Quitte Pas (SP)

A very sophisticated and adaptable lady. At 31 and having lived through many system changes, Caro brings new meaning to the word “veteran” in singles skating. She first hopped under the spotlight with her stunning jumps, but stayed on the stage until today thanks to her masterful skating prowess and evolving artistic “voice”. Her effortless glide and changes of speed/direction are done on the deepest of edges; her arms move like a painter’s brush. Every movement of hers is flowing, full of love for what she does. And rather than a competitive spirit, it’s the emotions and experience she brings to her performances that keep her in the sport. As Lori Nichol said, this short program allowed Caro to be the athletic and sensual woman that she is.

4. Yuzuru Hanyu - Ballade No.1 in G minor 3.0 :) (SP)

Yuzuru knows how to start off the Olympic season with a bang: breaking his own WR in his first performance at the Autumn Classic. A horifically difficult piano composition, Chopin’s Ballade No.1, with its dramatic chords, abstract motifs, dynamic rhythm and interwoven themes running from subtle to stormy, seems to fit our agile FS King like an elegant glove. Over the years, Yuzuru gave us not less than three different and perhaps equally iconic interpretations of Chopin’s favorite music. This particular one is all about the aura and intricate details. Every element is blended with the music. The final jump combo comes out of nowhere. This emotional peak then transitions into the StSq which is majestic in its smoothness; it rumbles and flows together with the fiery chords running down the keyboard. All doubts are resolved yet the mystery persists. Nothing can be added or taken away--this is perfection.

3. Satoko Miyahara - Madame Butterfly & The Planets/Princess Leia (FS)

I adore Satoko’s skating, despite her imperfections (read: jumps). The world needs skaters like her, whose elegance, musical flow, precision, and subtle presentation touch your heart. Her body lines and layback spin are gorgeous; her multidirectional skating effortless. (That reverse Walley into the Salchow!) Satoko is a strong character performer. I loved her Goddess/Princess Leia FS from 2016/17, how original the choreography was and how engaged and fast Satoko seemed. It’s such a difficult piece to skate to yet she managed to showcase different sides to her. This year’s M Butterfly was, given the circumstances, a safer skate, but her emotional projection only increased. Her showing at the JNats was the finest in that regard. Butterfly’s anguish and suicide seem to become Satoko’s own struggle with her injuries. But the piece ends with a spin to the dreamlike yearning of Un bel di vedremo, as if we’re witnessing both Butterfly and Satoko’s rebirth.

2. Kaetlyn Osmond - Edith Piaf (SP)

IMO, to her belong the two best ladies’ performances of the 2018 Olympics. With Edith Piaf Kaetlyn has finally found an iconic short program! You can tell when a skater is truly feeling the music and looking happy while on the ice, and this program has accomplished just that for K. We meet a French young lady, sauntering down the streets of Paris, wanting to be noticed by someone special. Accompanying her is the voice of Edith Piaf, who sings Sous Le Ciel de Paris and Milord. The program has it all: purposeful choreography, powerful skating, sensitive interpretation of music, ease of movement, the speed going into her huge jumps. Her outgoing character just floats up so naturally. Thanks to her charm, K could indeed give Cotillard a run for her money.

1. Yuzuru Hanyu - Hope & Legacy (FS)

During the 2017 Worlds, Max Ambesi proclaimed this as Hanyu’s best skate, and also the best skate in history. I couldn’t agree more, even if everyone has their own favs. It was an inconsistent season before Hanyu had surpassed himself to skate clean a program massive in ambition and complex in expression. It was as if he’d become an ethereal nature spirit. He was the air, wind and water contained within the melody. He made himself appear weightless and effortless on the ice, seemingly not needing any strength to execute any of the elements. A dreamlike aura surrounded him. I just love how the program highlights his natural musicality and attention to detail. My favorite part: the serene StSq followed by the 3F as the music rises.

Bonus: Alena Kostornaia - Stella’s Theme (FS)

What a talented Junior we have! In her first international season Alena has shown she has nothing to fear from the Seniors. Her charisma, skating skills, and arm movements are those of a fairy. Her jumps are spiced up with steps/transitions. Her spins sizzle with creativity. Nothing feels rushed or incomplete. I challenge anyone to watch her lyrical, immersive performances and experience “backloading” done right. :)

[dfroza]

the body has become the Temple of the Spirit of our Creator

and we carry this treasure of Light in our ordinary selves, becoming weathered & worn on the outside, yet continually renewed deep within.

Today’s reading of the Scriptures from the New Testament is the 6th chapter of the Letter of First Corinthians where Paul begins with stating his case of resolving disputes among believers and concludes with the topic of sex:

Furthermore, how dare you take a fellow believer to court! It is wrong to drag him before the unrighteous to settle a legal dispute. Isn’t it better to take him before God’s holy believers to settle the matter? Don’t you realize that we, the holy ones, will judge the universe? If the unbelieving world is under your jurisdiction, you should be fully competent to settle these trivial lawsuits among yourselves. For surely you know that we will one day judge angels, let alone these everyday matters. Don’t you realize that you are bringing your issues before civil judges appointed by people who have no standing within the church? What a shame that there is not one within the church who has the spirit of wisdom who could arbitrate these disputes and reconcile the offended parties! It’s not right for a believer to sue a fellow believer—and especially to bring it before the unbelievers.

Don’t you realize that when you drag another believer into court you’re providing the evidence that you are already defeated? Wouldn’t it be better to accept the fact that someone is trying to cheat and take advantage of you, and simply choose the high road? At times it is better to just accept injustice and even to let someone take advantage of you, rather than to expose our conflicts publicly before unbelievers. But instead you keep cheating and doing wrong to your brothers and sisters, and then request that unbelievers render their judgment!

Surely you must know that people who practice evil cannot possess God’s kingdom realm. Stop being deceived! People who continue to engage in sexual immorality, idolatry, adultery, sexual perversion, homosexuality, fraud, greed, drunkenness, verbal abuse, or extortion—these will not inherit God’s kingdom realm. It’s true that some of you once lived in those lifestyles, but now you have been purified from sin, made holy, and given a perfect standing before God—all because of the power of the name of the Lord Jesus, the Messiah, and through our union with the Spirit of our God.

It’s true that our freedom allows us to do anything, but that doesn’t mean that everything we do is good for us. I’m free to do as I choose, but I choose to never be enslaved to anything. Some have said, “I eat to live and I live to eat!” But God will do away with it all. The body was not created for illicit sex, but to serve and worship our Lord Jesus, who can fill the body with himself.

Now the God who raised up our Lord from the grave will awaken and raise us up through his mighty power!

Don’t you know that your bodies belong to Christ as his body parts? Should one presume to take the members of Christ’s body and make them into members of a harlot? Absolutely not! Aren’t you aware of the fact that when anyone sleeps with a prostitute he becomes a part of her, and she becomes a part of him? For it has been declared:

The two become a single body.

But the one who joins himself to the Lord is mingled into one spirit with him. This is why you must keep running away from sexual immorality. For every other sin a person commits is external to the body, but immorality involves sinning against your own body.

Have you forgotten that your body is now the sacred temple of the Spirit of Holiness, who lives in you? You don’t belong to yourself any longer, for the gift of God, the Holy Spirit, lives inside your sanctuary. You were God’s expensive purchase, paid for with tears of blood, so by all means, then, use your body to bring glory to God!

The Letter of 1st Corinthians, Chapter 6 (The Passion Translation)

to be accompanied by these lines from The Message:

There’s more to sex than mere skin on skin. Sex is as much spiritual mystery as physical fact. As written in Scripture, “The two become one.” Since we want to become spiritually one with the Master, we must not pursue the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy, leaving us more lonely than ever—the kind of sex that can never “become one.” There is a sense in which sexual sins are different from all others. In sexual sin we violate the sacredness of our own bodies, these bodies that were made for God-given and God-modeled love, for “becoming one” with another. Or didn’t you realize that your body is a sacred place, the place of the Holy Spirit? Don’t you see that you can’t live however you please, squandering what God paid such a high price for? The physical part of you is not some piece of property belonging to the spiritual part of you. God owns the whole works. So let people see God in and through your body.

The Letter of 1st Corinthians, Chapter 6:16-20 (The Message)

our Creator designed sex and the human body made in the gender of both male & female which takes shape at the genesis spark of conception in the womb. sex forms two bodies into “One” body which is actually the marital bond of husband & wife and this is the only “safe” sex on earth, being a sacred bond of intimacy shared that is meant to remain faithful for a whole lifetime.

Today’s paired chapter of the Testaments is the 41st chapter of the book (scroll) of Isaiah where God speaks of restoring his people and also speaking against idols of metal that some trust in:

Eternal One: Keep quiet and listen to Me, lands along the seacoast;

give the people of the nations a chance to regain their strength.

Let them come close, all together, to speak their minds and present their case;

let’s consider the facts and make a judgment.

Who brought up this eastern hero? Who called up his justice service?

He lays nations at his feet and makes an end of their kings.

With a thrust of his sword and the bend of his bow,

this hero turns kings and their armies into dust.

With agility and speed unmatched, he chases them down

and is himself unscathed, even though he is passing over unfamiliar land.

Who has performed these deeds and accomplished this purpose?

Who calls each generation into being from the first on down?

It is I, the Eternal One your God.

I am the first.

And to the very last, I am the One.

The lands along the seacoast have seen and are scared.

The ends of earth take to shaking and yet still they draw near.

They try to bolster each other up saying,

“Have courage, brother, have courage!”

Recognizing their mutual dependence, the artisan encourages the goldsmith;

the one who hammers the metal emboldens the one who welds,

Saying, “Looks good! Fine job!” and fastens the idols together with nails,

making it stand firm and stable.

Eternal One: But you, My servant, Israel,

Jacob whom I have chosen and descendant of My friend, Abraham,

I have reached to wherever you are in the farthest corners of earth,

and the most hidden places therein.

I have called to you and said, “You are my servant.

I have chosen you, not thrown you away!”

So don’t be afraid. I am here, with you;

don’t be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you, help you.

I am here with My right hand to make right and to hold you up.

Look, everyone who hated you and sought to do you wrong

will be embarrassed and confused.

Whoever challenged you with hot-headed bluster

will become as if they never were, and nevermore will be.

You may go looking for them, but you won’t find them;

because those who tried to fight with you will become as if they never were.

After all, it is I, the Eternal One your God,

who has hold of your right hand,

Who whispers in your ear, “Don’t be afraid. I will help you.”

So don’t be afraid, Jacob, though you are nothing but a worm.

People of Israel, you little bug, you have nothing to fear.

Eternal One: I will help you. I am One who saves you,

the Holy One of Israel.

I will turn you into a formidable threshing sledge

with brand new sharp blades that will mow down entire mountains

and turn the hills into chaff.

You will separate value from waste, and a great wind

and a strong storm will take away what is useless and unimportant.

You will take joy in the Eternal.

You will glow with pride in the Holy One of Israel.

And when people thirst, when those poor souls with parched tongues

look in vain for something to drink,

I, the Eternal, the God of Israel, won’t leave them to suffer. I will respond

By making the hard, brown hills sparkle with streams of fresh water

and causing valleys to come alive with springs.

I will see that gentle pools wait on the desert floor for the weary traveler,

and great fountains bubble up from dry ground;

In the desert, I will plant cedars, woody acacias,

myrtles, and olive trees.

I will establish great cypresses to flourish in the desert places,

plant oaks and pine trees side by side.

They’ll see all this and understand. They’ll ponder together

and come to know that it is the power of the Eternal One that produced this.

They will know that the Holy One of Israel created it.

Eternal One: Present your case. Lay out your arguments

and call your witnesses to appear before the King of Jacob.

Come on and bring your idols. Now tell us what is to come,

and while you’re at it, tell us what happened before.

Can you explain to us so that we, too, may understand?

Go ahead, tell us what the future holds.

Surely you can, if you are truly gods. Do good, or do bad.

Just do something—anything—to amaze or frighten us.

Sure enough, you are not gods; you are nothing at all.

You have nothing to show for your work or yourselves.

Fools! Only fools would choose you to be their god. Detestable.

Eternal One: I, the Lord, I have called up for service

one from the north, and he comes from the rising sun

and he will invoke My name.

He will render rulers like mud under his shoes,

trampling them down like so much clay.

Did any of you gods tell us about this long ago, so we would know?

Did any of you indicate to us that we might agree, “He is right”?

No, no one told us. No one made an announcement, and no one hears what you say.

I was the first to say to Zion, “Look, here they are!”

I sent a messenger to announce the good news to Jerusalem.

But I am looking, and there isn’t anyone.

I have asked around, and no one knows, no one can tell Me.

See here, all of these so-called gods are false;

their works are nothing;

These cast-metal images are like wind, sheer emptiness.

The Book (Scroll) of Isaiah, Chapter 41 (The Voice)

A link to my personal reading of the Scriptures for monday, july 19 of 2021 with a paired chapter from each Testament of the Bible along with Today’s Proverbs and Psalms

A post by John Parsons that takes a look at divine hope:

Shalom chaverim. This week we will study parashat Vaetchanan (Deut. 3:23-7:11), a rich Torah portion that includes some of the most foundational texts of the Jewish Scriptures, including the Ten Commandments, the Shema (the duty to love God and study His Torah), as well as the commandments of tefillin and mezuzot. In addition, in this portion Moses predicted the worldwide exile and the eventual redemption of the Jewish people in acharit hayamim (the prophesied "End of Days").

We always read this Torah portion on the Sabbath that follows the fast of Tishah B'Av, called Shabbat Nachamu (שבת נחמו), the "Sabbath of Comfort," since the haftarah speaks about God's future consolation in the coming kingdom of God ("Comfort, O comfort, my people [Isa. 40:1]). With the advent of this special Sabbath, we have just seven weeks to prepare for the new year (i.e, Yom Teruah or “Rosh Hashanah”) and the High Holidays - a “jubilee” season that heralds the return of Yeshua... In addition to our Torah readings, on the 15th day of the month of Av we observe chag ha-ahavah (חַג הָאַהֲבָה), or "the holiday of love." Since it marks the "last" festival of the Jewish year, prophetically the 15th of Av (called Tu B’Av) pictures our marriage to the Lamb of God (Seh Elohim), the LORD Yeshua our beloved Messiah. On a soon-coming day those who belong to the LORD and are faithful to follow His ways will be blessed with the unspeakable joy of an eternally intimate relationship with Him. This is heaven itself - to be in the Presence of the LORD and to be regarded as His beloved (Rev. 19:6-9). Maranatha. [Hebrew for Christians]

7.19.21 • Facebook

Today’s message (Days of Praise) from the Institute for Creation Research

July 19, 2021

When the Foundations Are Destroyed

“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3)

The word here for “foundations” is not the usual word for, say, a building foundation. Used rarely, a better translation of this word would be “purpose,” or “basis.” The fear expressed is not that the foundations of our faith might be undermined but that we might lose our sense of purpose.

In the context of the psalm, David was in danger of becoming demoralized by the pressures of wicked desires and evil ambitions all around him, and Christians surely have the same problem today. Why should we try to maintain high standards of doctrinal integrity and moral purity when the people around us—even most Christians—seem to be occupied mostly with materialistic ambition and pursuit of pleasure? If we allow the devil to undermine the very purposes God has for our lives, wandering away from His will in favor of some temporal interest, then why even continue with a pretense of Christian living?

David’s solution was simply to remind himself that “the LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD’s throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men” (v. 4). He may allow the righteous to be tried for a season, but we must not forget that “the righteous LORD loveth righteousness” (v. 7) and that “the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth” (v. 5).

When we are tempted to wonder whether it is really worth all the effort, and when our very foundation and purpose for living seems to be crumbling, we should remember that our God is Creator, Sustainer, and Judge of all—that He still is on His throne, and that we who belong to Him have been “predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will” (Ephesians 1:11). HMM

[aisudbury]

The Hardest Part

I have a confession to make. The job of a staff member is hard.

Our job is great in many ways. We get to be surrounded by students of all ages doing fun and crazy things. We get to plunge toilets, replace fixtures, work with agencies and businesses of all kinds, write emails, formulate policies, mop floors, talk with parents, debate rules, argue different philosophies, witness conflicts with resolutions, pick up messes, be a shoulder to cry on, and do pretty much anything that needs doing.

It takes every bit of physical, mental, and spiritual energy we have to make it through a day. But using up all that energy in pursuit of maintaining a community brimming with life is about as satisfying a day as I can imagine. I am thankful each day for the opportunity to come home exhausted with a smile on my face.

But there is one part of the job that cuts my heart every time. Tears well up in my eyes just writing about it. It is the pain of losing students.

Often the circumstances of a departing student are bathed in a certain triumphant glow. The student leaves with their head held high, empowered to be present in the world and make it their own.

But it hurts to lose a member of our community. We all develop deep bonds with one another. To lose that bond is to lose a part of oneself. This is the price we pay for being a part of a community. New bonds are formed as new students join, but each student is too unique to replace. We have gaps in our heart for every missing member of our community.

Graduation

Some of our students leave because they are about to enter the adult world. Graduation is the word that comes to mind though that is but one option. Fundamentally, the call to be a useful part of the community at large calls to our older students. As the call rings, they rise to the occasion, emboldened with the support of the community that has loved and cherished them during their time here at A&I. They have been free and independent while being of service to, and respectful of, others. This is the gift that they take to the world at large. I would never dream to stand in the way of that.

Yet we miss them deeply and it is a bittersweet pain that fuels our new growth into new relationships.

Moving

Some students have family situations, such as having to move due to a new job, that take our students out of our community before their time. This hurts as well. We are comforted in knowing that our community will stay with them as they make a new life with new challenges. Even at a young age, the students who have been at A&I will emerge with a strength and vitality unmatched by those who have trundled along at conventional schools.

We miss them deeply and wish they could stay. But a new day dawns as new students move into our community.

Forced

There are other students whose family situations do not demand they leave, but the parents do. This cuts us deeply. It is rare, often a student or two a year, but it leaves deep scars. Parents have different reasons for pulling students, such as fear at being so unconventional or not being happy with the choices their child has made. In the past, these parents have failed to understand that basic idea of A&I: our students are human beings with their own lives that are theirs to claim and live.

We have deep conversations with such parents. They receive our words. They nod and maybe even cry. Sometimes they white knuckle their way through the period of doubt, but, occasionally, we fail. The parents decide to leave the school while the student wants to stay.

The scars from such pullings run deep in us. It hurts all of us in the community, but it falls hardest on their friends and the staff. We are crushed by the idea of someone ripped from a community that loves them and thrust into a world in which adults tell them what to do. These students were empowered, tasting what freedom and responsibility feel like, only to have it all taken from them and cast down into serving at the “educational” whims of others.

I see the picture on the wall of the student and I feel my heart just wants to stop. I loved them and failed to help them in their moment of need. I can’t even read the screen right now as my eyes tear up. Listening to Bob Seger singing “Why don’t you stay?” is not helping.

Sometimes I feel like Rock Biter from Neverending Story though I am comforted by knowing that, in the end, even these students will rise up, empowered by our community to make it through whatever trials they must face.

Sports

Other students are not quite ready to enter the full adult world, but leave to pursue passions that we do not have resources to meet. Sports is a big one for that. Students are willing to accept the loss of some of their freedom in order to play a sport that they can only play at a larger school. In many ways, it feels similar to graduates though it hurts a bit more as we know that we could have had more time with our friend.

We miss them, comforted in the knowledge that they are pursuing their dreams and passions elsewhere. But just as they leave for their passions, we welcome the new students who are joining us to pursue their passions at A&I.

Academics

There are students who leave us sometimes to pursue academics at other schools. We struggle with this. We know that anyone can learn academics at A&I if they choose to do so. There are plenty of resources in various forms, including us very capable staff.

I know from my experience in math education that individualizing learning is far more effective than traditional methods. Lecturing at a class, in real time, is very ineffective though I admit that, as a lecturer, I am not that inspiring. At the very least, we can all agree it is very hard to stay focused on a rapid fire of information coming at us for over an hour or two.

While that is true, there is something about a community of like-minded learners that can be very helpful. If a student finds a school where others want to learn and debate and fuel the inspiration to pursue a subject matter further, then this can be a good option. We certainly do not have many students exploring history, literature, mathematics, or science though we do see some students pursuing such subjects. But it certainly can be hard to form working circles on any subject. Even restricting to a single subject, such as history, there are so many places to investigate and explore that it can be overwhelming.

Most conventional schools do not do anything even remotely close to fostering the independent spirit needed for effective learning of any of the subjects. One place that one expects this to happen is college. But students who are somewhat interested in this knowledge at a younger age do not easily have access to this option. And, of course, even at college, many college students are more interested in their sudden freedom than the academic subjects that they have been forced to read.

Departing for academic pursuits is also often for those with just a slight desire for it. They do not have that deep thirst for knowledge that can fuel the individual initiative. Those with a thirst need nothing more than what they get at A&I and would find most conventional schools to be an impediment.

So this is an issue where we feel sad and uncertain about how to proceed. Generally, students leaving for such reasons are making the choice themselves, albeit with likely pressures from family, external friends, or the culture at large. They feel empowered and ready to take the challenge. We know that they will excel. We know that they will face any oppression of individuality with the calm force of resistance that any truly centered individual would display in such circumstances.

But we also know that they could have stayed and prepared better for what lies ahead by staying with us. We miss them deeply and yearn for the alternative path that would have let them stay with us. And yet we also know that just as they leave for academic pursuits, we will have others that are attracted to A&I for the freedom to pursue the depths of an academic subject that lights their passions. Mastery of a topic requires plenty of time and space for explorations, failures, and playing with ideas. It is incredibly hard to get that anywhere else other than the unique opportunity that A&I offers.

Struggles

There is a final group of students that leave us that always leaves us asking what we could have done to convince the students to stay. These are students that choose to leave, but not in an empowered way.

It is legendary that when students come into A&I, they often have a “detox” period. My rule of thumb is that it takes about a month per year of oppression. It takes longer if that oppression continues in some fashion elsewhere.

Most of the time, students do make it past their “detox” period using the painful memory of why they left their previous place of being to power through the emotional releasing of that pain. Healing can often be harder than the original injury, but the end state is worth it.

As the years go by, however, the pain of that memory fades. They have embraced their lives, enjoyed their time, but then something new and challenging arises from within. This often happens in the early teen years, but it could happen anytime. Basically, some internal process happens that puts them on a different path. All of a sudden, their usual amusements no longer amuse them. They need to find a new path.

This can be very disorienting and painful. Boredom is often reported. There are the breakings of long term friendships as old friends suddenly seem silly or have otherwise grown apart. It gets harder to come to school.

Parents see the distress of their child. If they have a good relationship with their child, then the parent may take on the brunt of the complaining and really start to worry if A&I is the right fit anymore. Regardless, the student often takes this seemingly aimless wandering as a signal to find a new place to be.

It is easy to think that leaving the place one is in will resolve the problem. But wherever we go, we bring our problems. The problems inside any of us are just that: inside of us. We cannot escape by running away. We have to listen to our emotions and feed off them to grow beyond where we are.

It is the calling of the human heart. Boredom in this day and age seems like a dreadful disease, but it is the process of letting a person lie fallow as the next step emerges. Humans do not have literal cocoons, but we do have emotional ones. It happens throughout our lives, but it is at an excruciating stage in the teen years as one transitions from the child to the adult. It burns hot sometimes, but it burns cold far more often.

So some of our students think about leaving and parents who have accepted their child’s self-direction in life, support them. They might be secretly happy about it, but I think most are genuinely trying to be supportive of a scary step into a new direction in life.

And it is hard for us to argue with it. Maybe for some it is the right decision. But we as staff believe that in most cases, students need to work through these hard issues. Not running away from freedom is the toughest choice for them to make, but it will be the most rewarding.

There is something quintessential about being human that demands we accept our environment and craft it to our needs. Admittedly, some environments even escape our industrious natures to make useful, but that is a rarity. For the most part, students who feel that they have no connections at our school will form new connections if they stay. Connecting socially is a drive that transcends differences. Maybe there are fundamental differences between two people, but at their core is a need to connect and understand one another.

It is important to wait for that quiet desperation that breaks through our indifferences to one another. Bonds formed in this way can be quite strong, far stronger than bonds between people who come together out of a common interest. Bonding despite differences is, in my opinion, the key to our future as a species. In this day and age of self-selecting into like-minded circles spanning the globe, we need to remember and cherish loving the other.

It starts here at A&I. Inside each of our students lie the components needed for making lifelong bonds with anyone. They just need to accept the fact that this is what they must do.

Life is hard, but we all have the strength to see it through. It involves standing our ground against our own demons, converting the pain into positive action. How we handle that speaks volumes as to who we are. It informs our future for many years to come.

When we lose students who are in the depths of such struggles, we ache a deeper ache than any other kind. It is extremely difficult because such struggles must be resolved from within. It is why “wise” people do not simply list off a prescription of actions. The struggle is personal and its resolution is personal. Each person finds their unique path and understanding of life in such struggles. No one can write their path for them. Perhaps the greatest tragedy of conventional education is that it sidelines such struggles and tries to replace it with a script. It fails and delays the ultimate reckoning of this struggle to a much later age with subpar results for the larger community and for the individual.

We can and do try to be a shoulder for students to cry on, but that mostly applies during the hot fires. The listlessness phase is often about suffering in the quiet darkness of the mind, a place that we staff can only obliquely offer comfort for. Directly shining a light on that struggle can rob the student of some of their own power and often causes the struggle to retreat for a time until it comes back in an even more powerful version.

All we can do is be present, supportive, and nonjudgmental. As staff, this is hard. For parents, it can be almost impossible to watch this.

Sometimes, the power to flee wins. That is the hardest time of being a staff. We can see the beauty that was set to emerge, the strength and unique wonders of a person just about to come into the world, only to see it flee and retreat, perhaps for years to come. Those are the days that I come home feeling gut punched, helpless to intervene, mute in my objections, locked into a box by the paradox of committing to individual freedoms and choices.

All I can do in the end is to hope that the spark out of the darkness happens before the final decision to leave is made. Or that parents can see the pain for what it is, love it, and, just this once, push their child to stay, saying “just one more year”.

Whatever the outcome, I know some mud-covered dancing six year old is about to waltz in the door and give solace to my aching heart, looking at me with that glance that tells me how important it is to keep this beautiful community brimming with life.

UPDATE: Aaron Browder at the Open School reblogged this with his own interesting commentary.