#spiritual direction denver

[influencermagazineuk]

In a stunning turn of events, hip-hop icon Kendrick Lamar has just released a surprise album titled GNX. In its entirety, the 12-track project is his sixth studio album, announced via his various social media platforms at around 17:00 GMT on Friday, leaving fans and critics alike stunned. A first full-length project since 2022's Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, the album will feature notable contributions, including collaborations with R&B sensation SZA and jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington, among others. This release comes just ahead of his performance as a headliner for the Super Bowl halftime show in February. Lamar's latest album concludes a dynamic year for the artist, whose music has often been shaped by his competition and rivalry with Canadian rapper Drake. The two hip-hop heavyweights have been waging war in the public arena for years, but that earlier this year during which their artistic jabs quickly sharpened will be remembered for some time to come. Julio Enriquez from Denver,CO, USA, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Rumors of a new Kendrick Lamar project had been circulating for months. Fans and industry insiders speculated on what was next for the Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, who has continued to push the genre to new heights. Reactions early on have been pretty positive to the sound coming out of Kendrick, with social media continuing to praise his knack for reinvention and the ability to surprise. A review from AP News called Lamar "an ambitious and searingly talented poet from Compton," praising his ability to grapple both personal and societal contradictions on the largest stage. The outlet added that his latest work represents "another thrilling chapter in what remains the most fascinating longform story in hip-hop. Meanwhile, Rating Game Music found the strength of the album to be more artistic in nature, referencing that the project is a creative endeavour for Lamar. "It reminds us why he's one of the greats," the site wrote. There's still qualifying before a full endorsement: "My guess? The real project is on the horizon. Despite the hype over GNX, many fans were disappointed to find that pop sensation Taylor Swift was not included on the album. Many had rumored that she was going to feature since she had collaborated with Kendrick earlier for Swift's song "Bad Blood" in the 1989 album. SZA's soulful voice, however, takes center stage in two songs: luther and gloria. The duo recently sat down to discuss their work and broader topics, including spirituality and mental health, in a joint interview with Harper's Bazaar. Other tracks on the album include tv off, dodger blue, peekaboo, and the title track, gnx. The opening song, wacced out murals, offers a direct nod to Lamar's upcoming Super Bowl halftime gig. With its gigantic audience and cultural value, the show is arguably one of the most coveted opportunities for performers. The choice to feature Lamar as headliner is a subject of debate from Lil Wayne fans, some of whom considered him more worthy of the spot. Lamar admits this fact in the song with the line: "I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down". Won the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulate me." The coming of this album is also amidst a lot of tension between Lamar and Drake.Their rivalry has produced some great tracks in years, but this year the fight had really intensified as both released tracks that took direct shots at one another. Without a doubt, one of the most glaring results of this beef was Lamar's Not Like Us, which broke several Spotify records in a single day with the most played hip-hop song. Produced by DJ Mustard, the hit topped the US charts and took the sixth spot in the UK, already standing as Lamar's most commercially successful single to date. As listeners unpack all of the many layers of GNX, it's undoubtedly apparent that Lamar is a force that can't be stopped. Whether this marks the start of a new artistic chapter or serves instead as a bridge to something much larger, it's up for debate, but one thing is certain: Kendrick Lamar continues to redefine the boundaries of modern hip-hop. Read the full article

[worldtopnews99]

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1. Pregnancy & Postpartum Support: Navigating the journey of pregnancy and the postpartum period can be overwhelming. At Beerwinkle Counseling, we provide tailored support to help you adjust to this significant life change. Our approach combines evidence-based practices with compassionate care to help you manage the emotional and psychological challenges associated with pregnancy and the early stages of parenthood.

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3. Faith & Spiritual Development: We believe that integrating faith and spirituality into therapy can be a powerful resource for building resilience. At Beerwinkle Counseling, both Ryan and Kelli are dedicated to helping clients explore their spiritual beliefs as part of their healing journey. We offer a supportive environment where you can develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your faith.

4. Life Transitions: Life transitions, such as career changes, relationship shifts, or personal growth, can be challenging to navigate alone. Our practice provides guidance and support to help you adapt to these changes with confidence. Kelli’s expertise in life transitions ensures that you have a reliable partner to help you manage these pivotal moments effectively.

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What sets Beerwinkle Counseling apart is our dedication to creating a safe and authentic therapeutic relationship. We believe that in an environment of trust, clients can explore their challenges and develop meaningful new directions in their lives. Our approach is informed by well-researched, evidence-based therapies and a deep respect for the complexities of human experience.

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Our practice is committed to a holistic view of therapy, integrating human development principles with a trauma-informed understanding of the mind and body. We aim to enhance self-awareness and relational understanding, empowering you to build a healthier, more fulfilling life.

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Clients choose Beerwinkle Counseling for our compassionate, faith-integrated approach and our expertise in managing anxiety, trauma, Anxiety Counseling and life transitions. Our personalized care ensures that each client receives the support they need to thrive. We are dedicated to helping you uncover your strengths and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

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If you're seeking support for pregnancy and postpartum issues, anxiety, faith development, or life transitions, Beerwinkle Counseling is here for you. Visit our website at Beerwinkle Counseling to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment. Let us guide you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment.

[mamagrace]

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[lawofnamesmedia]

Corporations value workers that think outside the box when it comes to great plans and innovations, but what about thinking in the afterlife?

para/Normal S01E11: Spiritual Corporate Culture

This episode was written, directed, and edited by Jordan W. Anderson.

It features Amy young, Kai Dohmann, Max Newland, Lauren Tucker, Denver Steward, and Michael E. Freemantle.

[xtruss]

Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)! Constructed during the early 17th century, Istanbul's most photogenic building gets its nickname from the blue tiles adorning the interior. Photograph By Keith Arnold Getty Images

Why Ramadan Is The Most Sacred Month In Islamic Culture

The sighting of a new crescent moon marks the start of Ramadan, a time for piety and self-reflection.

— By Eslah Attar | March 13, 2023

Every year, Muslims around the world anticipate the sighting of the new crescent moon that signifies the official first day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the most sacred month in Islamic culture.

The start of Ramadan fluctuates each year because the lunar Islamic calendar follows the phases of the moon. The beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by a moon sighting committee in Saudi Arabia. It begins the day after the committee spots the new crescent moon, which can be tricky since it’s quite faint and can be seen for only about 20 minutes. If the moon isn’t visible to the naked eye because of haze or clouds, lunar calculations are used to predict whether it’s in the sky. This year Ramadan is predicted to begin on March 23, and to end April 21 with Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims build stronger relationships with Allah through fasting, selfless actions, and praying—like this Palestinian man praying at the Great Mosque of Gaza in Gaza City. Photograph By Ali Jadallah, Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Origin of Ramadan

Ramadan, one of the months in the Islamic calendar, was also part of ancient Arabs’ calendars. The naming of Ramadan stems from the Arabic root “ar-ramad,” which means scorching heat. Muslims believe that in A.D. 610, the angel Gabriel appeared to Prophet Muhammad and revealed to him the Quran, the Islamic holy book. That revelation, Laylat Al Qadar—or the “Night of Power”—is believed to have occurred during Ramadan. Muslims fast during that month as a way to commemorate the revelation of the Quran.

The Quran consists of 114 chapters and is taken to be the direct words of God, or Allah. The hadith, or accounts by the companions of Prophet Muhammad’s thoughts and deeds, supplement the Quran. Together they form the religious texts of Islam.

“Fasting is a shield, so the one who fasts should avoid obscene speech and ignorant behavior. If someone abuses him or starts to fight with him, he should reply by saying: ‘I am fasting. I am fasting’.” — Saheeh Al-Bukhari

How Ramadan Is Observed

During Ramadan, Muslims aim to grow spiritually and build stronger relationships with Allah. They do this by praying and reciting the Quran, making their actions intentional and selfless, and abstaining from gossiping, lying, and fighting.

Muslim worshippers pray near the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan. Photograph By Muammar Awad Xinhua, Eyevine/Redux

Throughout the month, fasting between sunrise and sunset is obligatory for all Muslims, except for the ill, pregnant, traveling, elderly, or menstruating. Days missed fasting can be made up throughout the rest of the year, either all at once or one day here and there.

Meals are opportunities for Muslims to gather with others in the community and break their fast together. Pre-dawn breakfast, or suhoor, usually occurs at 4:00 a.m. before the first prayer of the day, fajr. The evening meal, iftar, can begin once the sunset prayer, Maghreb, is finished—normally around 7:30. Since the Prophet Mohammad broke his fast with dates and a glass of water, Muslims eat dates at both suhoor and iftar. A staple of the Middle East, dates are rich in nutrients, easy to digest, and provide the body with sugar after a long day of fasting.

Ramadan! Celebrate Ramadan, a Month of Sacrifice and Prayer, with the Muslims of Denver, Colorado. Starting Thursday 23rd, 2023

After the last day of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate its ending with Eid al-Fitr—the “festival of breaking the fast”—which begins with communal prayers at daybreak. During these three days of festivities, participants gather to pray, eat, exchange gifts, and pay their respects to deceased relatives. Some cities host carnivals and large prayer gatherings, too.

But no matter what observers have planned for their traditional suhoor and iftar gatherings this year, the spirit of this centuries-old tradition will remain the same as a time for piety and self-reflection.

The Five Pillars Of Islam: These Guidelines are Fundamental to the Lives of Muslims:

Sawm: Fasting from Dawn until Dusk during Ramadan

Shahadah: Believing there is No Deity (God) but Allah and Prophet Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him) as His Messenger

Zakat: Giving to Charity

Salah: Praying Five Times a Day

Hajj: Making the Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once if able.

[mrbenvs3000w24]

Hello @bndenvs3000w24,

Your exploration of the intertwining realms of music and nature beautifully encapsulates the profound connection we share with the world around us. Indeed, your mention of humpback whale songs is particularly fascinating. These majestic creatures not only captivate us with their haunting melodies but also offer a poignant reminder of the intricate parallels between human music and the songs of the natural world (Gray et al., 2001).

Whale songs, spanning vast octaves and featuring intricate rhythmic structures, serve as a testament to the universal language of music that transcends species boundaries (Gray et al., 2001). It is awe-inspiring to consider how these marine mammals, much like us, use musical motifs and patterns in their vocalizations, underscoring the inherent musicality woven into the fabric of existence (Gray et al., 2001).

Moreover, your reference to John Denver's "Country Roads" eloquently highlights how music can serve as a powerful conduit for our connection to nature. The song's evocative lyrics and melodies transport us to idyllic rural landscapes, evoking a sense of nostalgia and belonging that resonates deeply with those who have experienced the serene beauty of the countryside.

Another example that beautifully illustrates this deep connection between music and nature is found in the Finnish folk tradition of "rekilaulu" (Sahi, 2012). Originating from Finland's northern regions, rekilaulu offers a captivating glimpse into how music intimately intertwines with the natural world, especially in the context of Finland's wintry landscapes (Sahi, 2012).

One striking aspect of rekilaulu is its incorporation of nature into the fabric of the songs (Sahi, 2012). Just as Denver's "Country Roads" paints a vivid picture of rural landscapes, rekilaulu often begins with an introductory verse that pays homage to the beauty and majesty of the natural environment (Sahi, 2012).

Direct video link: https://youtu.be/UPYjgAES0Is?si=D1dgVfHJF1ZK4uD8 :)

Overall, these examples underscore the profound truth that music resides within nature just as nature resonates within music. Whether it's the ethereal melodies of humpback whales echoing through the ocean depths or the folk songs of distant lands celebrating the beauty of their natural surroundings, music has an innate ability to bridge the gap between humanity and the natural world (Gray et al., 2012; Sahi, 2012). As we immerse ourselves in the intricate melodies and lyrical landscapes crafted by musicians and nature alike, we are reminded of our profound interconnectedness with the environment and the importance of preserving its beauty for generations to come.

Thanks again for your insights, and I look forward to further discussions and explorations in the future! 🌄 Best,

Madison B.

References:

Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52-54. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8

Sahi, V. (2012). Using Folk Traditional Music to Communicate the Sacredness of Nature in Finland. In J.-M. Mallarach (Ed.), Spiritual Values of Protected Areas of Europe: Workshop Proceedings (pp. 129-132). Bundesamt für Naturschutz. https://www.silene.ong/en/documentation-centre/spiritual-values-of-protected-areas-of-europe-workshop-proceedings#Proceedings_Spiritual%20Values_PAs_Europe.pdf

Harmonies of Nature: Exploring the Interplay Between Music and the Natural World

The intricate relationship between music and nature captivates our imagination, prompting us to delve into the interplay between these two realms. In pondering the enchanting melodies and rhythms that echo through the natural world and the realm of music, we are invited into a realm of profound exploration. These questions, "Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music?" serve as a gateway to a deeper understanding of how sound and harmony intertwine with the beauty and majesty of the world around us.

Nature itself is a symphony of sounds, from the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind to the melodious songs of birds at dawn. But perhaps one of the most captivating examples of music in nature is found beneath the waves, in the hauntingly beautiful songs of humpback whales. These majestic marine mammals are not only inveterate composers but also share striking similarities with human musicians in their rhythmic structures and musical expressions [Gray et al., 2001].

Singing humpbacks demonstrate an innate sense of rhythm, utilizing phrases and themes in their songs reminiscent of human compositions. Their songs, spanning a range of at least seven octaves, feature musical intervals and structures like those found in our scales and symphonies [Gray et al., 2001]. Moreover, the presence of repeating refrains and rhymes in their songs suggests a sophisticated level of musicality [Gray et al., 2001].

The connection between nature and music extends beyond the songs of whales. It permeates every corner of the natural world, from the gentle babbling of brooks to the thunderous roar of waterfalls, from the rustling of grasslands to the whispering of forests. Nature's melodies inspire composers and musicians alike, weaving their way into compositions that evoke the awe and wonder of the natural world.

The peaceful and powerful sound of water flowing at the devils punchbowl in Hamilton ON

The iconic song "Country Roads" by John Denver resonates deeply with those who have experienced the serene beauty of rural landscapes firsthand, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for the tranquillity of nature's embrace. For individuals like myself who grew up on a farm, the song's lyrics and melodic strains transport us back to cherished memories of golden fields, rolling hills, and winding country roads. It serves as a reminder of the simple joys found in the rhythms of rural life – from the gentle hum of bees pollinating wildflowers to the soft rustle of leaves in the wind. "Country Roads" celebrates the deep connection we share with the land and the sense of belonging that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves, embodying the spirit of rural life and the profound beauty found in the simplest moments.

Reflecting on this intersection of music and nature, one cannot help but be transported to a serene landscape, perhaps reminiscent of a quiet forest or a tranquil mountain. For many, certain songs evoke vivid memories of specific natural landscapes, instantly transporting them back to moments immersed in the great outdoors's beauty.

Whether it's the rhythmic cadence of whale songs beneath the waves or the evocative melodies of folk tunes like "Country Roads," the connection between music and nature is undeniable. It reminds us of the profound beauty and harmony in the world around us, inviting us to pause, listen, and appreciate the symphony of life that surrounds us daily.

In conclusion, the music of nature serves as a timeless source of inspiration and wonder, weaving its way into the very fabric of our existence. As we explore the depths of this harmonious relationship, may we find solace and joy in the melodies that echo through the natural world, forever intertwined with the songs of our hearts.

Gray, P. Krause, B. Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C. & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science. 291. 52-54.

[fratresdei]

How to Create Sacred Space

Sacred spaces are some of the clearest examples we have of humanity’s active involvement in cultivating the Sacred. Within sacred spaces, the lines between “what is ‘just people’ and “what is ‘purely divine,'” are, blessedly, blurred to indistinction.

For example, when humans build temples, they often believe that holy presence resides within it. However, there is no delusion that the temple was not built by human hands. That reality is in fact celebrated! Within sacred space we are free to relish in our participation, or co-creation, of divine presence in our world. This power we possess does not detract from the mystery of sacred space, but is something to cherish. If we have the power to construct and nurture sacred space, that says a lot about our standing in the universe.

So, what constitutes a sacred space? The answer could include many possibilities: perhaps you have a favorite quiet spot in your place of worship or out in nature. Maybe you grew up with a shrine or altar in the home, or you may be seeking to curate and maintain a space for yourself. The space may be hidden away where only you can access it, or out in the open where you spend most of your day. There may be objects that represent deities, loved ones, prayers or intentions present. It could be a clear, clean space, empty of clutter, where the mind and spirit feel free to declutter as well. Your sacred space may simply be your own body. While the size and structure of a personal sacred space may vary, the core is the same: a place that has been set aside for contemplation or communion with the divine. The beauty of a sacred space, like many facets of spiritual life, derives from the meaning it carries for you.

To help illustrate the many variations and nuances of a sacred space, Fratres Dei Spiritual Direction Contributor Saint Gibson @stgibsonofficial and Communications Manager Caroline Crook @yourfavoriteauntcarol (yours truly), have each shared a picture of our own sacred spaces and described the contents therein.

Saint’s Space

There are a number of sacred spaces scattered throughout my house; the rose-scented Our Lady of Guadalupe candle and collection of crystals in my bedroom, the shelf where my fiancé and I remember our departed ancestors with little photos and trinkets, and the font of holy water affixed to the wall by the front door. But the most prominent sacred space in my home is the altar table set up in the living room, underneath a gilded icon of the Madonna and child.

On it, I keep all my candles and figurines representing the saints and angels, and some beloved keepsakes, like dried flowers, gifted rosaries, and letters from friends. The plate in the center of the altar features a painting of the last supper and is used for offerings: generally water, and sometimes alcohol or milk depending on whether or not that's appropriate to the petition or the day on the church calendar. My household celebrates both the Christian holidays and the pagan wheel of the year, so the decorations on the altar change out with feast days and seasons. The candles around the offering plate change, but there's always a sacred heart of Jesus and a Mary mother of God burning away, and usually a Saint Jude and a Saint Joseph as well. I burn a rainbow candle to remember the queer saints of the church both known and unknown, and to ask for God's protection on LGBTQ+ people worldwide.

My patron saint is the archangel Uriel, patron of confirmation in the Episcopal church and of poets and scholars widely. My golden Uriel figurine presides over his side of the altar, along with a figurine of the archangel Raphael, my fiancé's patron. We've got all sorts of talismans and charms representing the four archangels, and we have a fiery red candle for the archangel Michael that stands looped in a necklace featuring a ward against the evil eye. A golden pietà, my fiancé's greatest thrift store find, watches over all the candles. We've also got a colored figurine of the Infant of Prague standing proudly over a photograph of my fiancé and I. That's because the very first letter my fiancé ever sent me was a photograph of the Infant when he was traveling abroad, and we like to think he watches over us.

There are prayer cards littered about, and I often find myself reaching for Saint Ignatius of Loyola or Saint John the Revelator in times of need. We also usually keep incense burning in a metal cauldron that's always stuffed full of salt and ashes. Frankincense, rose, and lemongrass are my favorites. There are also many taper candles that I've saved from trips to other churches or from sung masses on Michaelmas and Christmas Eve.

I've been curating sacred space in every dorm room and apartment I've lived in for years, and this is by far my most favorite space yet. There's enough room to stand while you pray and move items around, but it's small enough that I could pack up everything on the altar into one box if I needed to. The table stands right between the living room and the kitchen, in the heart of the home, and it makes me feel like blessings are being disseminated from the altar to every room in the house. It's a way to keep a little bit of divinity always within arms reach, incarnate in rosaries and candles and bottles of holy water. With my altar nearby, I feel prepared for any spiritual celebration or crisis, and I know exactly where to retrieve up my spiritual tools when the occasion calls for it.

Caroline’s Space

Let’s call my sacred space an acoustic version of what a sacred space can be. It’s only a few months old; yet another quarantine project. Cluttered? Yes. Often mistaken as just a shelf for all my candles? Also yes. But it serves my spiritual life in ways that I personally find intuitive and accessible.

Of the three bookshelves in my apartment, this one is in a central spot in the living room, facing the couch. It’s part of the space and rhythm where most of my daily life takes place. Especially during quarantine when my brain fog is even worse than normal, it’s nice to be able to naturally glance over at this shelf and quickly check in with its contents.

Said contents are 95% candles. Whenever I need to set aside some time for an intentional, spiritually fulfilling practice (whether prayer, yoga, reading, writing, or just a break from social media) I light a candle. On days of significance (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.) or to pray for a loved one, I’ll light a smaller tealight candle in the centerpiece and let it burn for the day.

The remaining 5% is all gifted, bought or found objects from friends and family members. The centerpiece is a candle/incense holder one of my oldest and dearest friends gave to me. There is a glass dish of crystals, shells and sharks’ teeth, all collected over the years between Florida and DC, with family and friends. The glass bottle in the corner was a gift from a friend’s wedding last summer, and I keep that filled with rainwater or holy water, depending on what’s at hand. There’s a crystal seashell towards the back that was a gift from my late grandmother. Each of these objects, to me, represents the many connections, joys and loves in my life. I’m also part magpie, so it’s nice to have a place where these odds and ends I collect can be 1) on display, 2) out of the way.

Other objects come and go, as I like to place items on this shelf that symbolize what’s on my heart at the time. Coins, written turns of phrase, scraps from old clothes, photos of loved ones, etc. Occasionally the odd tarot card, if I’m looking for a stronger visual.

For years this surface was just part candle repository, part please-God-do-not-forget-to-return-these-library-books shelf. It had a vague purpose, and certainly held things that are important to me, but not in an especially meaningful way. The act of curating this space -- choosing that shelf, cleaning it up, deciding what to place where, and maintaining it over time -- has been a source of calm, inspiration, and reflection. It’s still a work in progress though; I have a holly wreath I place around the centerpiece during the holidays, and am looking into getting a wreath to celebrate each season in the year. To, you know, help me remember that time is still passing in quarantine (I want to say April was… two weeks ago?)

If you feel so inclined, we would love to hear from you as well: what does a sacred space mean to you? What sacred spaces have you cultivated or visited?

If you’re curious about cultivating your own sacred space with the help of an expert, book your first free virtual session with Fratres Dei Spiritual Direction in the comments.

Saint offers tarot readings that are affirming, insightful and welcome to all. Check out Holy Roots Tarot using the link in the comments.

February 18, 2021 | Denver, Colorado

[ufonaut]

Are there things you cannot possibly explain? Are strange things happening to you? These four may be your last hope!

The Challengers of the Unknown section on the DC Comics website from July 1997.

Transcripts under the cut:

INTRO:

Step into The Light...

CHALLENGERS OF THE UNKNOWN

The scene: A jumbo jetliner crashes in the Rockies. In the aftermath, four lone survivors pull themselves from the wreckage and are instantly transfixed by a mysterious bright light bathing the disaster site. The light, growing brighter and brighter by the second, "sings" to them, envelops them, until it is all... until it is everything!

After the accident, race car driver Clay Brody, theoretical physicist Brenda Ruskin, game designer Kenn Kawa, and pilot Marlon Corbet go back to their lives - lives which now seem shallow and unreal. In the weeks that follow the strange occurrence, each is haunted by recurring dreams of the crash and its aftermath, blindly unaware of the changes that have taken place - altering their lives forever!

The four are unexpectedly reunited by Sands, an elderly gentleman with a very special power: the ability to recognize others who have also been touched by The Light. The mysterious benefactor makes them an intriguing offer: If they agree to band together to continue his work, he'll fund them, give them access to information he's gathered over the years, and help them develop their newfound powers. This could be the turning point.. the moment they've been waiting for: to seek the truth, explore the unexplainable... to challenge the unknown!

---

BRENDA RUSKIN:

Flamboyant in style, Ruskin is deeply passionate about her career and most other things in her life. Easily the smartest of the Challengers, she became one of the youngest theoretical physicist in history, working out the mysteries of quarks and dark matter, and her nerve and straightforwardness put her in demand on the lecture circuit. Her love life is less successful, and whereas Brody has no relationships, she has too many of them, with old boyfriends tending to pop up at the worst possible times. Her romances tend to be short-fused and burn out rapidly.

While she has no surviving family, she's ardent both in theorizing about the unknown and in placing those theories in the context of existing scientific knowledge, to make the unknown understandable, though she has a more liberal definition of understandable than most. Her innate empathy with technology seems somehow stronger since the incident that created the Challengers, but it doesn't unsettle her.

An only child pushed to excellence by parents at the expense of friends, Ruskin seeks companionship as much as knowledge from the Challengers. But the one she feels closest to is Kenn. Though she's serious about being friends with all of them; she's almost always at odds with Corbett, and finds Brody alternately arrogant and smothering, as if he can't believe she can take care of herself. Sparks of all kinds occasionally fly between her and all members of the group. She just loves the adventure and the sheer "unintellectuality" of the whole thing.

---

MARLON CORBETT:

Pilot, from Denver, CO. Marlon comes from a middle-class background with strong family values, including strong but not overbearing, traditional religious beliefs and a liberal political tradition. Though the urge that drove him to fly was to find something beyond all that.

Following a liberal arts college education, Corbett enlisted in the air force, and later became a civilian pilot. His family is large, supportive and tightly knit, he's probably the most eager of all the Challengers to dig into their mission, and easily the most lighthearted.

Of the four of them, Corbett has the most to lose by his involvement in the Challengers. His family and fiancee, (who's threatening to end their engagement), don't understand his involvement with "the occult" along with his willingness to abandon his job, and he's not even certain he understands it himself. The situation becomes a test of his family's strength.

Marlon has been troubled by unsettling dreams since the incident that created the Challengers. He disregards the feelings until he meets Sands and realizes they are all changed.

Because he has the strongest family life of the four of them, he is both the most supportive member of the group and apparently the most tenuous, since he has a life elsewhere. But he's tied to the group by the desire to be something more than what he has been, to not be just a member of his family or of a nondescript flight crew, but to stand out, to prove himself. the most easygoing of the group, he openly likes everyone, rising above their petty squabbles and frequently providing the viewpoint that lets the rest of the group rise above them, too.

His natural charm makes him a good front man for the group when they have to deal with the public or smooth the ruffled features of officials.

---

KENN KAWA:

The hardest to pigeonhole of all the Challengers, Kawa designs role-playing games for a living, and enjoys his skill at "playing" widely diverse characters. A firm believer in believing, his beliefs are equally mutable, tending toward wilder concepts; one week he'll espouse psychic surgery, the next primal scream therapy, the next Zen meditation. His family offers no clue to his true nature: his parents divorced, they and his sister are scattered across the globe, and he rarely sees them, though they exchange the usual birthday and holiday cards.

Unknown to anyone, he has an ex-wife and child, but prefers to keep them away from this part of his life. Kawa meanders through relationships with women, who tend to remain his friend rather than angry ex-lovers when he breaks up with them. But Kawa has constants: loyalty, an active practical imagination, an eye for details, a zest for new possibilities - and the ability to keep a secret.

Certain aspects of his fluid character are affecting his everyday life since the incident that created the Challengers, but he welcomes it, embracing anything new as a positive change in his being. Kawa enjoys periodically changing the direction of his life, so the Challengers come at the right time for him. There's little malicious about Kawa, but he delights in testing, seeing how far things can be pushed before he has to go a different way, and this is his chance to test reality. He "tests" his fellow Challengers as well, constantly challenging their preconceptions; he's the most open to the unknown of all of them. He particularly pushes Ruskin's buttons, triggered by her hot temper and her subtle claims to intellectual superiority, but underneath it all they enjoy each others company.

---

CLAY BRODY:

Race car driver, from Pikeville KY. Coming from a coal mining family, Brody is solid and dependable, but his childhood also left him with a taste for risk, and beating it. His father is dead, his mother and his three sisters have never left KY; and since a wild period in his teens when they wrote him off as bad, he hasn't dealt with any of them.

He's very methodological, believing only in what he can see, feel, plan or strategize. Even following his encounter with The Light, Brody resists acceptance of the paranormal and particularly of the spiritual, viewing everything with a skeptical, grounded eye. But, even he cannot deny that his experience during the incident that created the Challengers has changed him, and that change frightens him the more he understands it. Until he meets Sands, and learns the others have been similarly changed, he thinks he's going crazy.

While pleasant enough toward the others, and far from hostile, Brody is guarded around them, determined to find rational explanations for what they investigate, to ground the group in what he perceives as reality. In many ways, he's their anchor. He stays with the Challengers due to a secret need for a family he never really had, but learned behavior with his own family gets in the way. What the others mistake for occasional arrogance is actually shyness. He's rarely without black driving gloves, not really for his image, he wears them to guard himself from... something.

[brokehorrorfan]

Leap of Faith: William Friedkin on The Exorcist will be released on Blu-ray on April 13 via RLJE Films. The 2019 documentary is streaming exclusively on Shudder.

Written and directed by Alexandre O. Philippe (The People vs. George Lucas, 78/52: Hitchcock's Shower Scene), the film consists of an in-depth, unfiltered interview with filmmaker William Friedkin about his 1973 classic, The Exorcist.

Read on for the special features, trailer, and synopsis.

Special features:

Master Class with filmmaker William Friedkin and director Alexandre O. Philippe at 2020 BIFAN

In Conversation with filmmaker William Friedkin and director Alexandre O. Philippe at 2020 Denver Film

A lyrical and spiritual cinematic essay on The Exorcist, Leap of Faith explores the uncharted depths of William Friedkin's mind's eye, the nuances of his filmmaking process, and the mysteries of faith and fate that have shaped his life and filmography as told by the man himself.

Pre-order Leap of Faith: William Friedkin on The Exorcist on Blu-ray from Amazon.

[granvarones]

It took so long Still I believed Somehow the one that I needed Would find me eventually

I lived in my imagination. There existed a universe filled with applause and standing ovations. And in 1990, one of those places I manifested that universe was in my aunt Janet’s basement. While others saw a dusty and gloomy space, occupied by things nobody wanted -- I didn’t want to throw anything away. With just a double cassette radio and the dim light of what I am sure was a 25 watt bulb, was a world that protected me from the horrors that most queer kids like myself faced. The only time I ventured out was for school and not by choice. My survival mechanism in classrooms was ignoring the torment from other students – the way all my teachers did – and just daydream about the universe that existed within the confines of that basement until the school bell rang.

That basement was a place of environmental transformation. Whenever I played music as loud as I could, it became an arena for my “live” concerts that included a setlist of Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul songs. I’d imagine that all of the people, both adults and kids, who teased me because I was gay or because my mom struggled with crack addiction, were in the audience shocked into awe at my how far I’d come. I was popular in my imagination – all 13 year-old fem gay boys were popular in the gloomy refuge of my basement universe.

It was in that basement that I first heard Mariah Carey’s debut single “Vision of Love.” It was a Sunday night around 11:15pm. I know this because every Sunday night, I listened to a syndicated radio show called “Future Hits.” The hour-long show, which ran from 1984-1995, showcased newly released singles that had the potential to be future hits - hence the title. On that spring night, I listened as host Joel Denver introduced “Vision of Love.” I remember my initial response was “What a pretty name.” Then as the song began to play, I became captivated.

The production was not that much different from the current sound of R&B/Pop ballads of that time. What amazed me was the song’s lead and background vocals. Up until that point, Janet Jackson was the only artist in my opinion that mastered background vocals and harmonies. And for the record, Janet along with Brandy remain queens of harmonizing. But “Vision of love” had “oohs,” “ahhs” and “bops” that transcended vocals – they carried (see what I just did there?) the song in a way that instrumentation alone could never do.

Prayed through the nights Felt so alone Suffered from alienation Carried the weight on my own

It has been over 30 years since the release of “Vision of Love,” the song that catapulted an unknown former background singer for Freestyle/Pop singer Brenda K. Starr, into a living music legend. Released in May 1990, the song struck a chord with not just me, but with the mass populous. For many, that the song was interpreted as a love song, and for some, it communicated the experience of a spiritual awakening. For me, it was both. And in the wake of surviving both sexual, family seperation, and physical violence, this and most of the music of 1990, provided a musical backdrop in my journey to make sense of the world around me and the one I was creating. There, in that gloomy basement, Mariah Carey became my religion.

People often laugh at or are intrigued about my love for Mariah. My love for Mariah is deep and extends far beyond what the average listener may be or experience through her music, videos and persona. Her albums were like doctrines that provided directives of how to survive in a world committed to picking me apart. and the gay boy who always felt as if God was foreign to me, divas like Mariah were saviors who washed me over with love, acceptance without my ever having to denounce a part of who I was or will become.

Had to be strong So I believed And now I know I’ve succeeded In finding the place I conceived

The world has vastly changed since the release of "Vision of Love" in 1990. I have been living with HIV for well over a decade. My aunt Janet has since passed away, She was also a big Mariah fan. When she moved away to Florida in the mid-1990’s, I would purchase two copies of a Mariah album – one for me and one to mail off to Janet. I would then buy $10 calling cards (because that’s what poor people had to do when you didn’t have a phone or a long distance carrier. Yeah, that was a thing) and call her so we could dissect the album. This was a kind of bible study for me. My spirit was always right after those calls.

I cannot and probably will never be able to express my love and gratitude for Mariah without people labeling it as fanatical. What I do know is that ever since that Sunday night in 1990, there in that basement, in that place I conceived, Mariah has carried me through desperation and alienation for three decades. And for a Puerto Rican queer boy who used to only feel seen in his imagination, he now lives in the vision of the love that he creates and recreates every day. Just as he – I mean, just as I did, in that dusty basement all those years ago.

I had a vision of love And it was all you've given me.

[everandevermcre]

»  lake wright townsend  «

hey look, it’s lake wright townsend! they’re twenty-two years old, they’ve lived in shrike heights for eleven years, and they’re currently working at art murmur. i heard they’re pretty flakey, but i think they’re so confident at the same time. can they make it out alive?

»  before shrike heights  «

lake wright townsend, birth name to forever be unknown, is a success story told by two white, wealthy californian artists that had found love and the desire to be parents too late, ultimately adopting lake and giving her a life that she wouldn’t have known without them.

lake didn’t know moments of wanting to know her birth parents, having put the thought out of her mind entirely due to the simple fact that she always felt like she BELONGED, a less than easy task for a baby found abandoned at a fire station, for a person of color learning and growing in a white community, for someone who’s always known and practiced fluid sexuality. yet somehow, this has been lake’s story of finding belonging no matter where she is with the support of her loving, overly empathetic and understanding parents that rarely projected their own toxic traits onto her.

for the first ten years of life, lake wright townsend grew up in the canyons of los angeles that attract artists, musicians, writers, actors, and folks representing an astounding variety of spiritual pursuits, including her family.

the townsends lived in topanga canyon, california, where there is a remarkable concentration of creative energy shot through with a general sense of good vibes. this looked like wild, wide-open spaces; enforced solitude; and an atmosphere that teeters between insular and inspiring.

there was time to write, time to paint, time to take in the short mountain sunsets and time to think about what it all meant. it was a direct view of her family life and the values that had been instilled in her from a young age.

it was very important to the people there that they respect nature and not try to change the small, creative community that thrived there amidst the trees.

whenever lake came to learn about the green monster that came with going to school with malibu’s elite, her parents reminded her that they were not one of the designer beach town inhabitants. “don’t try to change topanga,” they would tell her when she wished it was more like where her friends lived in malibu, “let topanga change you.”

a bottomless well of privilege, however. struggling artists still struggle. your average poet or painter is going to have a tough time scraping togeer the bread to buy in a market where median prices are in the millions.

when lake was on the verge of her eleventh birthday, jobs, money, things that eleven year old could never understand, had her family uprooted across the country to the suburbs of shrike heights, colorodo.

topanga canyon was like an aging hippie that refused to wash off its natural character, harboring the same famous aesthetic it held in the seventies and before. similarly, lake refused to wash off the parts of malibu and topanga that shaped her, even if it meant standing out in shrike heights.

and as fate would have it, lake learned that she loved to stand out.

»  in shrike heights  «

there was a certain learning curve that came with being the new kid, but lake’s outgoing personality, harbored confidence, different sense of style, and creativity had her making friends in no time.

most friendships made were lost over time, lake being the type to jump around from friend group to friend group, finding whatever mold fit her best at the time.

post high school she tried live and work in denver as an artist, but the city life proved not to be for her.

after a while she made her way back to shrike heights. it was no california, but it was a closer life to the one she idolized in her mind growing up.

now she works in art murmur as your whimsical art supplier. in the evenings and sometimes the late nights into early mornings she is painting her colorful mind onto a canvas in hopes of fulfilling the same dream as all those left in topanga canyon: making a sustainable living, perhaps even a luxurious one, from her art.

»  personality  «

lake is both an empath cry baby and a feminist that takes zero shit, stands up for others, uses her voice as needed, and isn’t afraid to be LOUD or show you what she’s feeling.

she is overly affectionate in a way that often means nothing other than this is how she is. shoulder touches, cheek kisses, she likes to make people feel good.

confident is an over statement. the person she loves most in this world is herself and she has no shame in it, having been raised that there is no other way to be, and she would ultimately fall apart if she ever let that self-love slip from her grasps.

she has solid posture that commands a room and when she’s sitting she’s often “manspreading” and taking up space, actively nonconforming to the idea that women ought to make themselves small.

she CAN BE professional if and when needed, but much prefers to be herself, which means she talks with her hands, has big expressions and reactions, and uses a lot of urban slang.

as mentioned about her going around from friend group to friend group, lake’s a bit flakey. despite being an empath, she’s a me-first person, always aiming to please herself first and foremost. this means that if a better option comes along, she’ll try to remember and cancel with you, but she won’t hesitate to do so.

her most toxic and exhausting trait can be her argumentative nature. she is open minded and open to learning new things as well as actively seeks them out, but also has an immature knack for needing to be right.

is bad at prioritizing her work.

she loves to party, go out, be social and has an affinity for being the center of attention.

»  wanted connections  «

high school friends.

art friends.

best friend, confidante, partner in crime.

customer turned banter buddy.

lgbtqia+ community friends.

flirtationship.

love affair.

friends with benefits.

friends that call her out on her shit.

friends that she would die for.

unrequited crush.

unlikely pairing.

party friend.

friend she makes art with in her down time.

a night owl she hangs with when pulling all nighters.

heart to heart - someone she opens up to and vice versa.

[lenmiscate]

Join the global meditation please do your part I can send you the link via pm to easy access Full instructions at: https://facebook.com/events/s/end-of-covi-19/257868678581450/?ti=as It is time to take action again! It is time to take the destiny of our world in our own hands! We all agree that the process of planetary liberation is taking too long, and the current timeline is not going in the best direction. Here is our chance to collectively shift the timeline back into our optimal timeline for planetary liberation. Therefore we are using the opportunity of the massive astrological configuration of Jupiter Pluto conjunction on April 4th/5th to create a portal through which we will unify our consciousness and trigger the process that will solidify the optimal Ascension timeline for the planet. We will be doing this meditation at 10:45 pm EDT on April 4th in New York. This equals 9:45 pm CDT in Chicago, 8:45 pm MDT in Denver and 7:45 pm PDT in Los Angeles. Europe and Asia will already have April 5th at the moment of the activation, which will be 3:45 am BST in London, 4:45 am CEST in Paris, 4:45 am EET in Cairo, 10:45 am CST in Taipei and Beijing, 11:45 am JST in Tokyo and 12:45 pm AEST in Sydney. #consciousness #esoteric #energy #enlightenment #peace #mindful #peaceonearth #nothingness #love #life #lightwarriors #yosoyhuasca #metaphysical #awakening #advaita #beautiful #soul #source #spiritual #meditation #spirituality #lightworkers #newearth #ayahuasca #newage #lenmiscate #dmt #lsd #oneness #wisdom https://www.instagram.com/p/B-bDLTdns5d/?igshid=pthbkcn1mdec

[elopez7228]

Scenic Route 8/47

Read on AO3 : https://archiveofourown.org/works/18268208/chapters/43229774 

Start over : https://elopez7228.tumblr.com/post/620919089893933056/scenic-route-0147

***

After finishing her cheese burger, (No, please, no more refills) Rey called Jessica. She had to lie about the details of her setbacks and the circumstances that had led her to haul a dog on a 3,500 kilometer road trip. She explained that she had loaned a car and was improvising from there. Yes, she was doing better. Yes, morale was high for now. No, she hadn’t run into any guns or cowboys (yet), but she had seen buffalos (from afar) and the scenery was absolutely beautiful. Alright, she would send pictures.

Placing the phone in front of her, she smiled as innocently as possible at the front camera and hit “send” on the photo.

Everything was fine on Betterton Street according to Jessica. Finn and Poe had been talking the talk, they apparently spent an entire afternoon discussing Rey-drunk-in-the-street and Ben-the-tall-dark-mystery-man. They unanimously wanted to know:  who  was this guy and what was the  nature  of their  relationship ?

Rey rolled her eyes. He wasn’t anyone in particular. He was a random fellow from Denver who was both attractive and repulsive, but in his defense they had started off on the wrong foot, that’s all.

“No, Jess, I didn’t sleep with him. But if you think it’s hilarious that Finn believes I did, go ahead and have fun with it. You can tell him that I spent a night of passion with Ben Solo, rockstar and lead singer of KYLO & THE KNIGHTS OF REN. That way he’ll realize that I don’t miss him and that I’m doing just fine without him. And if he gets jealous—even better. Ask him how he thought I felt when I imagined him in bed with Poe.”

She ended the call there.

She finished her fries, covering the top of her glass with her palm to stop the waitress from refilling it again (had they gone mad here?) as she scrolled through her phone lazily. She was feeling nice and comfy in this 50s style greasy spoon—with its abundance of zinc, black and white tiled floors and red and pink neon signs. There was WiFi and air conditioning, and she balked at the idea of returning to her oven of a car.

Her finger traced over the selfie she had just taken. Her cheeks were rosy and her eye bags less prominent, how many days had she managed without crying? In the background sat a tall blonde woman in a buzz cut, looking straight in her direction.

Photobomb,  Rey thought glumly. But the woman’s piercing blue gaze was locked onto the camera, as if by design. As if they were both looking at the same thing. Rey turned around to see if she was still there. She wasn’t.

A family of four were helping themselves to a small basket of nuggets. At the counter, a lone diner in jeans and a tank top sipped on a drink.

Shrugging, she pocketed her phone and tapped her palms against her thighs to get BB8’s attention. BB was also taking advantage of the air conditioning as she layed stretched out underneath the table. She got up clumsily once Rey gently tugged on her collar.

It was time to hit the road again, they could manage a few hundred kilometers by nightfall. The vast land sprawled in front of Rey’s eyes once more, set to the particular rock rhythm of Kylo & the Knights. Little by little, their surroundings transformed into the desert. Yellow earth littered with spiny shrubs and cacti.

She passed Rock Springs at 2:30 PM, taken by the frankly apocalyptic view.

Columns of smoke billowed overhead, likely from mines or factories. Rusted trucks rolled by. It was a sprawling urban hellscape straight out of Mad Max. The empty mountain side inspired a certain sort of fantasy—it gave new meaning to “the hills have eyes”.

A few more kilometers to the west and she would have hit Utah. But Rey deviated to the north. As she approached the crest of the hill, she was stupefied. She had stumbled upon Eden Valley, surrounded by forest and freshwater rivers. Rey was slack-jawed. She hadn’t seen this much green since she left England. The feeling was almost spiritual and she could feel her eyes watering.

A few hours later, after two bathroom breaks for the dog and a mini-walk, they crossed city limits into Jackson Hole. It was a ski resort town. Nestled at the foot of the green slopes, the town was the perfect summertime spot for hiking tours, hunters, and weary Yellowstone travelers. The hotels were pricey and the food was mediocre at best but it didn’t seem to matter.

She obtained a camping spot just outside the city at Curtis Canyon Campground. BB8 wandered as Rey set up the tent and her mattress for the night. Having unloaded the bulk of her belongings from the car, she was finally able to notice an inscription on the mat lining the boot: “MILLENIUM FALCON”. She smiled. Didn’t all pilots give their baby a name? This old hunk of junk had just won her over.

And so Rey piloted the re-baptized Millennium Falcon into the city in search of dinner. She parked the car in the heart of town, taking a selfie in front of a massive wooden archway decorated solely with deer antlers, then made her way into a noisy yet poorly-lit bar.

Seated at the counter, she ordered a light beer and a Caesar salad while she texted Jessica. She attached the selfie she snapped in the adjoining room.

And then she saw the shadow.  What the hell?

She zoomed in on her screen, heart pounding. A blurry silhouette stood a few meters behind her—the same woman with cropped blonde hair.

No way, I must be seeing things.

Rey looked up from her phone and scanned her surroundings. Any second now, she would see the mysterious woman in the room. But she didn’t.

I must be imagining all this.

But the doubt crept in. She did her best to bottle the anxiety, to think of something else. But the question remained—who was this woman? Was this just a coincidence? After all, she had followed the typical route from Denver to Yellowstone and Penny’s Diner had been pretty much exactly in the middle of the way...other travelers could have stopped there for lunch too, it was totally plausible.

She scarfed down her salad, still deep in though. A woman offered to buy her a drink but she politely declined.

Afterwards, she placed some cash on the bar-top and thanked the bartender. Her heart was pounding again as she went out onto the street, there was a gut feeling she just couldn’t shake. She turned the corner to get to the car and—

“Hey! What are you doing?!”

A tall woman,  the same one with the short blonde hair, was leaning over her car door and tugging at the handle. She jumped at Rey’s tone, scrambling away.

Rey felt icy beads of sweat slide down her spine. She hadn’t been imagining anything, she  knew  something was off. So much for coincidence. Furious, she marched over to the woman and raised her voice even more:  

"Are you trying to break into my car? I'm going to call the police!"

The woman held her hands up in the universal gesture of innocence. "Well excuse me, I just thought it was mine. There's no need to make a big deal," she said simply.

" Really ? You also happen to have a dingy 1977 Oldsmobile with handpainted brown paneling on the front? Are you fucking kidding me?"

Screaming like a fury helped Rey cover up her insecurity. Why was this woman following her? What was she up to?

BB8 was barking furiously at the woman too, and Rey noted to congratulate her later. She had caught on very quickly.

The woman rolled her eyes and turned on her heels, turning the corner and disappearing into the street. Rey followed her, red-faced, before deciding to let her go.

She reconsidered calling the police as she held her phone once more. Who would believe her story? Some girl from Britain being chased by a mystery woman for 800 kilometers, a futile attempt to steal a car that didn't leave a scratch? They would surely laugh at her. She was wasting time. She had to move on by herself.

All those who bore witness to this altercation in the town square quickly turned away. They avoided the seething girl with the English accent and hastily took their leave.

Rey, heart racing and temples pulsing, bent down to pet BB8 in praise. BB was still in attack mode--growling and baring her teeth.

"Bravo, BB8. You did it, you protected me, good girl. That's a good girl,"

BB yelped and licked her nose.

"Come on, let's go. But first, I'll have to buy you a treat."

Google indicated there was an Albertson's grocery store that closed at midnight on Buffalo Way. There, she bought fried chicken bites for BB8 and cookies for herself. For breakfast...and dessert. Okay, she bought two packets of them. It was high time for some comfort food.

Something on the bulletin board just outside the store (boasting public service announcements and local yard sales) caught Rey's eye. It was a flyer that she read twice to make sure she wasn't mistaken.

KYLO & THE KNIGHTS OF REN

WEST TOUR

A sticker on the flyer displayed upcoming show dates at Jackson Hole.

The Mangy Moose, July 5th

She grimaced. She was driving around  randomly in an area that was roughly 10 million kilometers squared, populated by about 325 million people. But she kept running into the same man in one small town or another. It was infuriating.

It was the third of July. She decided not to linger around Jackson Hole, she wanted to put as much distance as possible between herself and the blonde madwoman. Too bad for the concert.

It's not like she wanted to go anyway, she didn't want to run into Ben Solo again at all. Nor did she want to see the look on his face when he saw her out in public again.

Who are you trying to convince?

She waved away the pesky whispering voice in her head. It was time to go to bed.

On the way back to camp, she fed BB the fried chicken bites. She took down her tent and instead set up her sleeping gear in the back of the car. She didn't have as much legroom, but at least no one would be able to get away with breaking in unannounced.

Her phone was at eight percent battery. She had to recharge immediately. There was no way she would spend the night alone in a camp with no phone. She wouldn't live to see the day.

She slipped into her jacket and left BB8 to guard mothership-Millenium-Falcon while she headed to the camp entrance. Everything was closed, with the exception of an ill-lit vending machine. She found an outlet and sat on the floor to wait for her phone to finish charging. She was there for at least half an hour.

She couldn't stop thinking about why anyone would want that car. What was so special about it?

Her fingers trembled as she dialed Leia Skywalker--if anyone would know it would be her.

970-571-3350

There was no dial tone. Just a robotic voice informing her that  the phone number you have dialed is not available .  Rey was immediately taken aback.  What the hell? She had certainly dialed this number before.

She tried again. Same number, same error message.

Her hands became unsteady. Unavailable? She had called that number barely a couple days ago. She had met Leia Skywalker in the flesh--ate with her and slept at her house. What did this mean? Was Leia using a burner phone to keep in touch with Rose, was this deliberate? But to what end?

The long-term implications of such machinations were beyond Rey, who was already battling anxious thoughts. What was it, what did they want?

Suddenly, she remembered the existence of Luke Skywalker. She had his number too, it was literally engraved into the dog's collar tag.

She dialed it shakily.

909-667-5721

The phone number you have dialed is not available.

Rey let out a scream and threw her phone down. It clattered against the damp floor.

She got up, heart racing and head pounding. Her breath was short and her hands were freezing.

Who could she talk to? Jessica?

Apart from worrying the living daylights out of her, there was nothing to be done.  Rey had Leia's physical address since she had texted it to Jessica, but what was she going to do with it? Call the police to report the car? Tell them about the cute dog and the impressive change of number? It was ridiculous. No one would be able to help.

What were her other options?

She had to take the dog to the address in San Francisco, an address she hoped still existed, because the corresponding telephone number was clearly garbage.

Could she back out? She still had to get to San Francisco by the 15th. How was she supposed to change plans if she didn't have plans in the first place? She had mentioned Yellowstone to Leia but not much else.

Abandon the dog? No, the poor animal had no way to fend for herself. Abandon the car? She could hardly continue on foot. She looked down.

Her phone case had been partially damaged due to the fall.

She bent down gingerly to pick it up. Examining it to make sure that the phone itself was intact, she noticed a slip of paper sticking out between the case and the phone itself. Her eyes widened as she pulled it out with her fingertips. She turned it over to read the back:

Ben

970-663-8876

[theurbanspiritguide]

Functioning as an Intuitive Sensitive Empath

As an intuitive sensitive empath, I can often take on, feel, and sense energies around me. I didn’t realize how truly sensitive I was until I ended in the hospital. And Doctors provided no explanation about why it happened.

The Metaphysical Fair

It was a warm spring day in 2002 and I took my 30-yo self to the Denver Metaphysical fair. I spent 4 hours walking up and down the aisles of this colossal building. It was fun and exhausting checking out the hundreds and hundreds of vendors. There were psychics, healers, energy workers, star beings, light beings, singers, artists, and so much more. Energy was moving in different directions in my field and I would get dizzy from time to time. This usually happened when I went into metaphysical stores or when around too many people / too much energy. Maybe it was the overwhelming smell of sage and incense. Or maybe it was all the energies moving about seen and unseen. It was time to unwind and ground.

Going to the Movies

I enjoyed my time at the fair, overwhelmed by all the insight, information, and vendors I got to explore. But I wasn’t ready to go home just yet. So decided I would watch a movie at the theater to chill out for a bit. And when I was done with the movie, I made a pit stop at Blockbusters to rent a movie. I knew that Zoolander just came out and was excited to rent it. So there I went into the blockbuster and straight to the back wall, where I knew Zoolander would be. I had no idea what was about to happen.

The Blockbuster Moment

As I approached the movies and was scanning through titles, something odd happened. The movies started to move, as if a portal was opening within them. I blinked my eyes a bit then rubbed them and peered closer, taking a deep breath. Did I really see that? There, they did it again! What was going on? I didn’t take any hallucinogens, but something was clearly happening.

Just then, my left hand started to tingle. Hm, I thought, Am I going to have a heart attack? I thought I had heard before that your hand tingling meant something not so good. So, I got down on the ground and sat there in seiza (a martial arts sitting position). Being close to the ground felt safe as I assumed something was going to happen but I didn’t know what. As an intuitive sensitive empath, I knew that calming the body and mind is critical when in unknown situations. And there I sat.

The Sensitive Empath Experience

As I sat there, I looked around the room and saw a man standing in the distance. It was at this moment everything changed. The next thing I remember, I was in a moving vehicle and there was a man yelling at me. “Kathy, calm down! Calm down!” I took a big gasp of air, trying to figure out what was happening. My eyes darted around the space wide with panic. Where was I? Who are these people? What happened? After a minute, they filled me in on the details. Then promptly asked me questions about if I knew where I was (what State, City) or who I was.

It took me a minute to put it all together. I thought I was in Arizona, which is where I had moved from a year and a half prior. But then I remembered I practiced Aikido and lived in Denver. They explained to me that I had a Grand Mal Seizure. Apparently in took 6 large police officers and fire fighters to hold me down. I don’t remember any of it. I was in the hospital for a few hours while they ran some tests ensuring I was safe to go home. Wow, what a day. When I finally made it home, I took it easy for a few days. My muscles were extremely sore and I was a bit confused by what happened. So needed some time to put all the pieces together.

The Aftermath of my Sensitive nature

Over the next few months, many tests were run and no one ever found anything wrong with me. No explanation from all the neurology departments and doctors I saw. They said it was just a strange occurrence that happens very rarely to 30 year olds.

A psychic told me otherwise. And 5 years later when I entered my Shamanic Practitioner training program, my teacher said it may have been an initiation. She let me know that the metaphysical fair is lined with psychics along the inside perimeter of the building. And that for an intuitive sensitive empath, it was no surprise it knocked me for a loop.

The next time I went to the fair, I made sure I had my grounding, shielding, and boundary tools active. Oh, what it is to be an intuitive sensitive intuitive empath. I’ve learned many tools in the many years since that experience. And I now help other intuitive sensitive empaths, or what I like to call Divine Super Souls

What Now?

If you are an intuitive sensitive empath, check out my “Turn Yourself In! Self-Mastery for the Intuitive Sensitive Emapth” podcast Episode 1 on Heart over Ego Radio.

_________________________________________

Reverend Katherine Ganev Soto, The Urban Spirit Guide is an Intuitive Sensitive Empath. She has been providing Spiritual Guidance and teachings since 2007.

She is here to learn and teach love, to heal and master thyself. And to help other Intuitive Sensitive Empaths (aka Divine Super Souls) heal and master themselves.

She is the creator of the “Turn Yourself In! Self-Mastery for Intuitive Sensitive Empaths” podcast and program..

You can find her on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. She is a teacher on InsightTimer and publishes podcasts on Heart Over Ego Radio. You can email her at kiofg@hotmail.com.

[alaspoorwallace]

DENVER CO, 1 NOVEMBER YEAR OF THE DEPEND ADULT UNDERGARMENT

[...] [DFW, Infinite Jest, 12b/13a]

The organopsychedelic muscimole, an isoxazole-alkaloid derived from Amanita muscaria, a.k.a. the fly agaric mushroom — by no means, Michael Pemulis emphasizes, to be confused with phalloides or verna or certain other kill-you-dead species of North America's Amanita genus, as the little kids sit there Indian-style on the Viewing Room floor, glassy-eyed and trying not to yawn — goes by the structural moniker 5-aminomethyl-3-isoxazolol, requires about like maybe ten to twenty oral mg. per ingestion, making it two to three times as potent as psilocybin, and frequently results in the following alterations in consciousness (not reading or referring to notes in any way): a kind of semi-sleep-like trance with visions, elation, sensations of physical lightness and increased strength, heightened sensual perceptions, synesthesia, and favorable distortions in body-image. This is supposed to be a pre-dinner 'Big Buddy' powwow, where the littler kids receive general big-brotherly-type support and counsel from an upperclass-man. Pemulis sometimes treats his group's powwows like a kind of colloquium, sharing personal findings and interests. The viewer's on Read from the room's laptop, and the screen's got block-capitalised METHOXYLATED BASES FOR PHENYLKYLAMINE MANIPULATION on it, and underneath some stuff that might as well be Greek to the Little Buds. Two of the kids squeeze tennis balls; two rock and bob Hasidically to stay alert; one has a hat with a pair of fake antennae made of tight-coiled spring. More or less revered by the aboriginal tribes of what's now southern Quebec and the Great Concavity, Pemulis tells them, the fly agaric 'shroom was both loved and hated for its powerful but not always unless carefully titrated pleasant psycho-spiritual effects. A boy probes at his own navel with great interest. Another pretends to fall over. Some of the more marginal players start in as early as maybe twelve, I'm sorry to say, particularly 'drines before matches and then enkephaline [26] after, which can generate a whole vicious circle of individual neurochemistry; but I myself, having taken certain vows early on concerning fathers and differences, didn't even get downwind of my first bit of Bob Hope [27] until fifteen, more like nearly sixteen, when Bridget Boone, in whose room a lot of the 16 and Unders used to congregate before lights-out, invited me to consider a couple of late-night bongs, as a kind of psychodysleptic Sominex, to help me sleep, perhaps, finally, all the way through a really unpleasant dream that had been recurring nightly and waking me up in medias for weeks and was beginning to grind me down and to cause some slight deterioration in performance and rank. Low-grade synthetic Bob or not, the bongs worked like a charm. In this dream, which every now and then still recurs, I am standing publicly at the baseline of a gargantuan tennis court. I'm in a competitive match, clearly: there are spectators, officials. The court is about the size of a football field, though, maybe, it seems. It's hard to tell. But mainly the court's complex. The lines that bound and define play are on this court as complex and convolved as a sculpture of string. There are lines going every which way, and they run oblique or meet and form relationships and boxes and rivers and tributaries and systems inside systems: lines, corners, alleys, and angles deliquesce into a blur at the horizon of the distant net. I stand there tentatively. The whole thing is almost too involved to try to take in all at once. It's simply huge. And it's public. A silent crowd resolves itself at what may be the court's periphery, dressed in summer's citrus colors, motionless and highly attentive. A battalion of linesmen stand blandly alert in their blazers and safari hats, hands folded over their slacks' flies. High overhead, near what might be a net-post, the umpire, blue-blazered, wired for amplification in his tall high-chair, whispers Play. The crowd is a tableau, motionless and attentive. I twirl my stick in my hand and bounce a fresh yellow ball and try to figure out where in all that mess of lines I'm supposed to direct service. I can make out in the stands stage-left the white sun-umbrella of the Moms; her height raises the white umbrella above her neighbors; she sits in her small circle of shadow, hair white and legs crossed and a delicate fist upraised and tight in total unconditional support. The umpire whispers Please Play. We sort of play. But it's all hypothetical, somehow. Even the 'we' is theory: I never get quite to see the distant opponent, for all the apparatus of the game.

[DFW, Infinite Jest, 13b] [end of the chapter | next chapter is labeled DFW, Infinite Jest, 14a]