There are a few singers that I LOVE to listen to. I'm in to Contemporary Christian music. I like a few hymns that are traditional. But I'm really not a "traditional" kind of gal. With that said, here are my favorites (with a fave song video included).
First of all, gotta give kudos to Nicole C. Mullen. The girl can SING!
As for the guys, I have to give it up to Al Denson. The following song brings me to tears EVERY single time.
I've had the awesome pleasure to see Cece Winans perform one year at an Extraordinary Women's concert here in town. She is even more so beautiful in person and gives a WONDERFUL, praise-filled performance. Music for MY generation, and even my kids'. This was one of the songs she sang..
Another tear jerker for me. I love it though! He is my Comfort and my Strength. Darlene Zschech had done a wonderful job with this song.
Delirious has some good P&W tunes also.
I think that personally, I really needed to hear some of these and just give it all to God. It's honestly been a very emotionally charged (almost) two weeks for me and my family. Between after-school activities, the home invasion and my son's problems escalating due to the break-in, I have been stressed beyond limits. It was refreshing and calming to listen and even sing to these this morning.
True, I'm not a church-going, drop-to-my-knees-every-ten-minutes, constant-Bible-reading Christian, but I know HE loves me, He sacrificed EVERYTHING for me and that He is there even in the midst of every storm to help carry and weather me through.
My work is ORIGINAL...Don't be a thief.
What is written in this blog, is of the author's own originality. It contains the sole views, thoughts, and stories of this blog's author.
Showing posts with label christianity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label christianity. Show all posts
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Bible Q&A Day
Welcome to Bible Q&A Day, where I will quote a question from the book (information provided below), word for word as it is printed in the book its self, and under it, provide the answer. From there, under the (****), I will give MY PERSONAL thoughts/views/feelings regarding the answer that was provided.
*Each question and it's following answer will be provided by "500 Questions And Answers From The Bible" (Mark Fackler, Editor, 2006, Barbour Publishing Inc.)*
(Genesis 1:26)
Q; What's important about being made in God's "image"?
A; Humans are not replicas of God, but we do share certain common characteristics with God. God is all-knowing, all-powerful, all-present, perfectly good, holy, and loving. We are not. But like God, we are spiritual, rational, emotional, communicative, and moral beings. We have dignity, purpose, and meaning. And we can experience the bonds of personal relationships.
******************************************************************
Funny that this one came up after the week I've just had, where I'd taken my youngest on a play date at a friend's house, where us three moms talked about various topics, including religion and beliefs as the girls all played.
Now, these weren't three Christian ladies, mind you. You had a Hindu mom, a New Age mom and a Christian mom. As we sat there at the table talking about what we each individually believe, and how much alike our three belief systems are, we all realized some strong commonalities.
1) There was a Higher Power that (at least) helped to create the universe and all things that are in it. Including us.
2) There is another life after this one is over.
3) We were all made in God's image.
The only real "dispute" among us (which really wasn't a dispute, being we are mature enough to discuss differences without fighting like rabbits and dogs) was how many "gods" that there are in existence and/or control of us and the universe.
My New Age friend feels that we have two creators. A God and a Goddess.
My Hindu friend believes in many Gods and Goddesses. So many I think my brain would hurt trying to keep track (lol).
Of course, being a Christian, I believe that there is only one God and Creator.
Now, "made in His image", I see not so much as a physical trait that God is speaking of, but of the deeper inner workings of our being. We were made to love others, to help others and to be the rulers over His creations (plants and animals lower than ourselves).
The only issue that I have with the above answer is the last sentence.. "And we can experience the bonds of personal relationships". Because while indeed, we CAN experience a PERSONAL bond or relationship with those here in the physical sense, I find great difficulty having a personal "relationship" (as in deeply like with your children or husband/partner) with someone you cannot see, touch, or smell.
Yes, as Christians, we must trust by faith alone. But it makes it no easier, at least for me to have that "personal" bond or relationship with God. Maybe this stems from what I went through as a preteen and teenager. Or maybe even earlier, being I felt cursed for something that I didn't do, but got "punished" anyways.
In all honesty, I have NEVER, ever really felt that close, intimate bond with Christ. I love Him. I believe in Him. I believe in what He did for me and the world on the cross. But I just cannot feel THAT intimately close to Him, no matter how hard I try to.
So, I don't take the "made in His image" to heart or to a level of being on an exact level myself.
If you like this new series, and wish to do so, GRAB MY BUTTON (below) and share it, and let others know that on Wednesday's and Sunday's, a new "Bible Q&A Day" post will be put out.
Please feel free to also share your thoughts and ideals in the comment area. Just keep it CIVIL, is all that I ask. Debate is great! But I will NOT have fights.
*Each question and it's following answer will be provided by "500 Questions And Answers From The Bible" (Mark Fackler, Editor, 2006, Barbour Publishing Inc.)*
(Genesis 1:26)
Q; What's important about being made in God's "image"?
A; Humans are not replicas of God, but we do share certain common characteristics with God. God is all-knowing, all-powerful, all-present, perfectly good, holy, and loving. We are not. But like God, we are spiritual, rational, emotional, communicative, and moral beings. We have dignity, purpose, and meaning. And we can experience the bonds of personal relationships.
******************************************************************
Funny that this one came up after the week I've just had, where I'd taken my youngest on a play date at a friend's house, where us three moms talked about various topics, including religion and beliefs as the girls all played.
Now, these weren't three Christian ladies, mind you. You had a Hindu mom, a New Age mom and a Christian mom. As we sat there at the table talking about what we each individually believe, and how much alike our three belief systems are, we all realized some strong commonalities.
1) There was a Higher Power that (at least) helped to create the universe and all things that are in it. Including us.
2) There is another life after this one is over.
3) We were all made in God's image.
The only real "dispute" among us (which really wasn't a dispute, being we are mature enough to discuss differences without fighting like rabbits and dogs) was how many "gods" that there are in existence and/or control of us and the universe.
My New Age friend feels that we have two creators. A God and a Goddess.
My Hindu friend believes in many Gods and Goddesses. So many I think my brain would hurt trying to keep track (lol).
Of course, being a Christian, I believe that there is only one God and Creator.
Now, "made in His image", I see not so much as a physical trait that God is speaking of, but of the deeper inner workings of our being. We were made to love others, to help others and to be the rulers over His creations (plants and animals lower than ourselves).
The only issue that I have with the above answer is the last sentence.. "And we can experience the bonds of personal relationships". Because while indeed, we CAN experience a PERSONAL bond or relationship with those here in the physical sense, I find great difficulty having a personal "relationship" (as in deeply like with your children or husband/partner) with someone you cannot see, touch, or smell.
Yes, as Christians, we must trust by faith alone. But it makes it no easier, at least for me to have that "personal" bond or relationship with God. Maybe this stems from what I went through as a preteen and teenager. Or maybe even earlier, being I felt cursed for something that I didn't do, but got "punished" anyways.
In all honesty, I have NEVER, ever really felt that close, intimate bond with Christ. I love Him. I believe in Him. I believe in what He did for me and the world on the cross. But I just cannot feel THAT intimately close to Him, no matter how hard I try to.
So, I don't take the "made in His image" to heart or to a level of being on an exact level myself.
If you like this new series, and wish to do so, GRAB MY BUTTON (below) and share it, and let others know that on Wednesday's and Sunday's, a new "Bible Q&A Day" post will be put out.
Please feel free to also share your thoughts and ideals in the comment area. Just keep it CIVIL, is all that I ask. Debate is great! But I will NOT have fights.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Would you join me?
Thanks to my MIL's gift card giving this year for Christmas, I was able to buy a few things I wanted to have and know I would use.
One item being a book (for under $8.00 mind you!) that has 500 questions in regards to the Bible, and answers of explanation.
It goes by Chronological order to coincide with the Bible's text order. So, I would post the question (word for word), and then the answer it gives (word for word).
Then underneath, I'd place (********) to indicate the end of the quotes from the book and give my PERSONAL view of how I view the answer's explanation.
I'm not a fanatical, Bible-wielding Christian who even goes to church. I'm just a simple believer who enjoys learning in her own way and own time of how the Bible pertains to me as an individual and question myself a bit. And I have my own interpretation of how I read and view the Bible.
If this sounds like something you would like to read and participate in, let me know. I'm planning to do the first post TOMORROW (Wednesday, Jan. 5th, 2011), and will do them each Wednesday and Sunday.
It would be WONDERFUL to make this fun, engaging and interactive.
I've even made a GRAB BUTTON for this... (now that I found out how to do them on my own)
Feel free to grab my button and spread the word about what I think will be a great series for all levels of believers (and non-believers) to discuss and learn from.
One item being a book (for under $8.00 mind you!) that has 500 questions in regards to the Bible, and answers of explanation.
It goes by Chronological order to coincide with the Bible's text order. So, I would post the question (word for word), and then the answer it gives (word for word).
Then underneath, I'd place (********) to indicate the end of the quotes from the book and give my PERSONAL view of how I view the answer's explanation.
I'm not a fanatical, Bible-wielding Christian who even goes to church. I'm just a simple believer who enjoys learning in her own way and own time of how the Bible pertains to me as an individual and question myself a bit. And I have my own interpretation of how I read and view the Bible.
If this sounds like something you would like to read and participate in, let me know. I'm planning to do the first post TOMORROW (Wednesday, Jan. 5th, 2011), and will do them each Wednesday and Sunday.
It would be WONDERFUL to make this fun, engaging and interactive.
I've even made a GRAB BUTTON for this... (now that I found out how to do them on my own)
Feel free to grab my button and spread the word about what I think will be a great series for all levels of believers (and non-believers) to discuss and learn from.
Friday, December 24, 2010
25 Days of Christmas (Day 24)
For the last 12 days of Christmas, I will be posts to "break down" the Christmas Carol, "Twelve Days Of Christmas" by focusing on what each line is speaking of (Partridge, Turtle Doves, etc.) and their meanings and/or what they truly are. Just little facts and trivia things.
*HINT* ... Each day, the verse of choice will be BOLDED and highlighted.
YAY!!! We have now come to the end of our "Twelve Days Of Christmas" trivia. I hope you have enjoyed learning some of the facts and trivia bits behind this very popular song. And also, NO BIRDS are involved in the last line either.
On the twelfth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Twelve drummers drumming,
Eleven pipers piping,
Ten lords a-leaping,
Nine ladies dancing,
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree!
Information provided by http://www.crivoice.org/cy12days.html
The twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed: 1) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. 3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. 4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell [the grave]. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 7) I believe in the Holy Spirit, 8) the holy catholic Church, 9) the communion of saints, 10) the forgiveness of sins, 11) the resurrection of the body, 12) and life everlasting.
Now, for the entire song... Muppets and John Denver style! Enjoy. We've earned the ability to giggle and laugh.
*HINT* ... Each day, the verse of choice will be BOLDED and highlighted.
YAY!!! We have now come to the end of our "Twelve Days Of Christmas" trivia. I hope you have enjoyed learning some of the facts and trivia bits behind this very popular song. And also, NO BIRDS are involved in the last line either.
On the twelfth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Twelve drummers drumming,
Eleven pipers piping,
Ten lords a-leaping,
Nine ladies dancing,
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree!
Information provided by http://www.crivoice.org/cy12days.html
The twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed: 1) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. 3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. 4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell [the grave]. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 7) I believe in the Holy Spirit, 8) the holy catholic Church, 9) the communion of saints, 10) the forgiveness of sins, 11) the resurrection of the body, 12) and life everlasting.
Now, for the entire song... Muppets and John Denver style! Enjoy. We've earned the ability to giggle and laugh.
Monday, December 20, 2010
"Happy ChristmaHannauKwanzaaSolstice"
This post is provided by my "sisa from anutha mutha", Dez over at Discordant Lullabye .
It's title is Happy ChristmaHannauKwanzaaSolstice...
It's a copy of her 'note' post over on FaceBook, in her words. But I did space it out. Yes, I do (as a Christian) agree with EVERY single word she writes.
....
“Jesus is the reason for the season.”
We've all heard this saying once or twice during the holidays. But did those who repeat these ever stop to think that maybe He's not? Fact is, Christmas is based on Pagan holidays. The Christians of the time didn't like all these Pagans running around having a peaceful mid-winter holiday with their trees and lights and presents and decided to ninja it. Yes, we should all be very proud of our ninja ancestors. :) We can't keep Christ in Christmas because He was never there. Because of all the confusion getting caught up in Christians insisting He was born in December, we can't even really be sure when He was born! Whether you think it's during the spring or in the autumn, most biblical scholars will agree that it was not in December. Shepherds in the fields in December? They'd freeze to death!
If you really think about it, what do pine trees and bright lights have to do with the birth of our Savior? Um nothing? Jesus didn't command us to do any of those things at the time of His birth. Come to think of it, He really didn't tell us to celebrate His birth at all! It seems to me that those who are most upset about people saying Happy Holidays or calling a tree a holiday tree are the ones who insist that Jesus was born on Dec. 25th and they're also the ones who will insist that there's nothing wrong with their kids believing in Santa Claus. I have no personal beef with those who have Santa as part of their holiday. I have problems with people insisting it's a Christian holiday and refuse to see it as anything else AND including Santa. One does not add up to the other.
Now for my family personally, we don't do Santa and never have. That's our personal family belief. We do happen to celebrate Dec. 25th as Jesus birthday just because we don't honestly know when it is and we should celebrate Him EVERY day! No matter what day He was born on, He was born and died on the cross for us and that's good enough for me. That's why I can display my tree and my lights and eat candy canes and drink eggnog. So if you're a Christian and you're getting upset about people saying Happy Holidays, where does Santa come into play exactly? Last time I checked, Santa had nothing to do with the story. And I've read the story quite a bit. Santa's not mentioned in there.
I honestly don't give a crap if someone wishes me a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Winter Solstice, Happy Hannukah or whatever else. Which is why I usually end up writing ChrismaHannaKwanzaaSolistice. I think there are more holidays than that but I can never remember them all. At least they're not saying “Hey go hump a log buddy”. I'll take a happy whatever I can get! I say Merry Christmas because that's what I celebrate. If you don't celebrate that, be sure to tell me and I'll wish you a happy whatever you celebrate. It honestly does not matter. If someone is wishing you health and happiness, does it really matter which words they use? Before you go getting all upset that you don't see more nativity scenes, try putting one up in your own yard/house. If you're so upset about someone calling it a holiday tree, stop celebrating a Pagan holiday. It's a TREE. Jesus made all trees so they're all important. Your whole life is not going to be ruined because someone wishes you a happy holiday. I promise!
Most people I know, whether Christian, Atheist, Pagan, Agnostic or whatever, honestly don't mind if you say Merry Christmas. They might say Happy Holidays back or they might just smile and think you're a weirdo. But most don't mind it, because that's what a lot of people celebrate. If you're not sure, just say Happy Holidays cuz there are a lot of them this time of year. Or you can just wish someone a nice day. Either way, it's a nice gesture. If someone makes a smart remark, just smile at them and go on about your day. Unfortunately there are some quite militant Atheists and Christians alike but I don't know them because I'd never be friends with them. :)
Instead of getting hung up on wording and slogans, why we don't try to act more Christlike? Instead of getting upset at someone, give them a smile and buy them a hot drink. It's pretty dang cold around here and I know I appreciate a hot drink when I'm freezing. Don't you think that would Jesus happier than seeing His children fight, no matter what holiday? If you're going to insist on celebrating Jesus' birth, why not be a light for Him instead of being a jerk in His name? I'm pretty sure He's not okay with people being jerks in His name. Hand out cookies to your neighbors, go Christmas caroling, give to Sub For Santa/Toys For Tots. Do something instead of just complaining.
Jesus is the reason for EVERY season, not just this one. So lighten up! And happy whatever the heck you celebrate!
Here's the replies I had made as I read the post in it's originality over on FaceBook...
OH HECK YEAH!!.... "We can't keep Christ in Christmas because He was never there. Because of all the confusion getting caught up in Christians insisting He was born in December, we can't even really be sure when He was born!"
Another OH SNAP MOMENT!!... "Jesus didn't command us to do any of those things at the time of His birth. Come to think of it, He really didn't tell us to celebrate His birth at all! It seems to me that those who are most upset about people saying Happy Holidays or calling a tree a holiday tree are the ones who insist that Jesus was born on Dec. 25th..."
BAM!!!! "Most people I know, whether Christian, Atheist, Pagan, Agnostic or whatever, honestly don't mind if you say Merry Christmas. They might say Happy Holidays back or they might just smile and think you're a weirdo. But most don't mind it, because that's what a lot of people celebrate. If you're not sure, just say Happy Holidays cuz there are a lot of them this time of year. Or you can just wish someone a nice day. "
It's title is Happy ChristmaHannauKwanzaaSolstice...
It's a copy of her 'note' post over on FaceBook, in her words. But I did space it out. Yes, I do (as a Christian) agree with EVERY single word she writes.
....
“Jesus is the reason for the season.”
We've all heard this saying once or twice during the holidays. But did those who repeat these ever stop to think that maybe He's not? Fact is, Christmas is based on Pagan holidays. The Christians of the time didn't like all these Pagans running around having a peaceful mid-winter holiday with their trees and lights and presents and decided to ninja it. Yes, we should all be very proud of our ninja ancestors. :) We can't keep Christ in Christmas because He was never there. Because of all the confusion getting caught up in Christians insisting He was born in December, we can't even really be sure when He was born! Whether you think it's during the spring or in the autumn, most biblical scholars will agree that it was not in December. Shepherds in the fields in December? They'd freeze to death!
If you really think about it, what do pine trees and bright lights have to do with the birth of our Savior? Um nothing? Jesus didn't command us to do any of those things at the time of His birth. Come to think of it, He really didn't tell us to celebrate His birth at all! It seems to me that those who are most upset about people saying Happy Holidays or calling a tree a holiday tree are the ones who insist that Jesus was born on Dec. 25th and they're also the ones who will insist that there's nothing wrong with their kids believing in Santa Claus. I have no personal beef with those who have Santa as part of their holiday. I have problems with people insisting it's a Christian holiday and refuse to see it as anything else AND including Santa. One does not add up to the other.
Now for my family personally, we don't do Santa and never have. That's our personal family belief. We do happen to celebrate Dec. 25th as Jesus birthday just because we don't honestly know when it is and we should celebrate Him EVERY day! No matter what day He was born on, He was born and died on the cross for us and that's good enough for me. That's why I can display my tree and my lights and eat candy canes and drink eggnog. So if you're a Christian and you're getting upset about people saying Happy Holidays, where does Santa come into play exactly? Last time I checked, Santa had nothing to do with the story. And I've read the story quite a bit. Santa's not mentioned in there.
I honestly don't give a crap if someone wishes me a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Winter Solstice, Happy Hannukah or whatever else. Which is why I usually end up writing ChrismaHannaKwanzaaSolistice. I think there are more holidays than that but I can never remember them all. At least they're not saying “Hey go hump a log buddy”. I'll take a happy whatever I can get! I say Merry Christmas because that's what I celebrate. If you don't celebrate that, be sure to tell me and I'll wish you a happy whatever you celebrate. It honestly does not matter. If someone is wishing you health and happiness, does it really matter which words they use? Before you go getting all upset that you don't see more nativity scenes, try putting one up in your own yard/house. If you're so upset about someone calling it a holiday tree, stop celebrating a Pagan holiday. It's a TREE. Jesus made all trees so they're all important. Your whole life is not going to be ruined because someone wishes you a happy holiday. I promise!
Most people I know, whether Christian, Atheist, Pagan, Agnostic or whatever, honestly don't mind if you say Merry Christmas. They might say Happy Holidays back or they might just smile and think you're a weirdo. But most don't mind it, because that's what a lot of people celebrate. If you're not sure, just say Happy Holidays cuz there are a lot of them this time of year. Or you can just wish someone a nice day. Either way, it's a nice gesture. If someone makes a smart remark, just smile at them and go on about your day. Unfortunately there are some quite militant Atheists and Christians alike but I don't know them because I'd never be friends with them. :)
Instead of getting hung up on wording and slogans, why we don't try to act more Christlike? Instead of getting upset at someone, give them a smile and buy them a hot drink. It's pretty dang cold around here and I know I appreciate a hot drink when I'm freezing. Don't you think that would Jesus happier than seeing His children fight, no matter what holiday? If you're going to insist on celebrating Jesus' birth, why not be a light for Him instead of being a jerk in His name? I'm pretty sure He's not okay with people being jerks in His name. Hand out cookies to your neighbors, go Christmas caroling, give to Sub For Santa/Toys For Tots. Do something instead of just complaining.
Jesus is the reason for EVERY season, not just this one. So lighten up! And happy whatever the heck you celebrate!
Here's the replies I had made as I read the post in it's originality over on FaceBook...
OH HECK YEAH!!.... "We can't keep Christ in Christmas because He was never there. Because of all the confusion getting caught up in Christians insisting He was born in December, we can't even really be sure when He was born!"
Another OH SNAP MOMENT!!... "Jesus didn't command us to do any of those things at the time of His birth. Come to think of it, He really didn't tell us to celebrate His birth at all! It seems to me that those who are most upset about people saying Happy Holidays or calling a tree a holiday tree are the ones who insist that Jesus was born on Dec. 25th..."
BAM!!!! "Most people I know, whether Christian, Atheist, Pagan, Agnostic or whatever, honestly don't mind if you say Merry Christmas. They might say Happy Holidays back or they might just smile and think you're a weirdo. But most don't mind it, because that's what a lot of people celebrate. If you're not sure, just say Happy Holidays cuz there are a lot of them this time of year. Or you can just wish someone a nice day. "
Sunday, December 5, 2010
25 Days of Christmas (Day 5)
Today's post will be talking about the history and the origin of what is now a primarily Christian tradition.
"The True Origin Of Christmas"
Christmas traditions date back to the days of Pagan practices. In fact that is where Christmas truly started. And it had nothing to do with Jesus Christ, or His birth.
It was originally an ancient winter festival, the feast of the Son of Isis which was celebrated on December 25th. Partying, drinking and gift exchanging were all a part of the yearly holiday.
Over in Rome, they celebrated the Winter Solstice. That was celebrated many years before Jesus was ever born. The holiday at the time was called Saturnalia, where Saturn was honored as the god of Agriculture. In January they also celebrated Kalends, which celebrated triumph over death. It's entire season was named Dies Natalis Invicti Solis, the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun. In ancient Rome, Mummers would dress up and go around the neighborhoods, singing songs. From this "caroling" was given it's birth.
Over in northern Europe many of the traditions were believed to be of Christian worship in it's origins. These to were started long before Jesus Christ came on to the scene. The Pagans of the north celebrated their winter solstice named Yule. Yule was symbolic of the pagan Sun God, Mithras, being born, and was observed on the shortest day of the year. The custom included lighting candles and hope that Mithras and the sun would make an appearance the following year.
Yule logs at this time that were pretty big in size were burned in honor of the sun. Yule's meaning is "wheel". The wheel is a Pagan symbol representing the sun. Mistletoe was considered a sacred plant, and the custom of kissing under the mistletoe began as a fertility ritual.
As for the tree which in our current tradition of celebrating Christmas, it is the one symbol that has been able to united almost all the northern European winter solstices. The evergreen trees were brought home and werea reminder to the people that their crops will grow again once more. The Druids used the tree as a religious symbol, holding their sacred ceremonies while surrounding and worshiping huge trees.
Finally, in 350 AD, Pope Julius I declared that Christ’s birth would be celebrated on December 25. In doing so, even with no record of the exact date or time of the year Christ was born, though it is strongly believed to be within the Autumn months, the thought of a conversion to Christianity went more smoothly and people were not AS apprehensive. Seeing as their traditions of Paganism were not (at least completely) stripped away.
Christmas as we know it today, most historians agree, began in Germany, though Catholics and Lutherans still disagree about which church celebrated it first.
The earliest record of an evergreen being decorated in a Christian celebration was in 1521 in the Alsace region of Germany.
I encourage those that read this, and have the ability to do so, to watch the 5-part video series about the historical aspects of Christmas from History Channel.
Information for this post to be made possible provided by...
Christmas Pagan Origins
"The True Origin Of Christmas"
Christmas traditions date back to the days of Pagan practices. In fact that is where Christmas truly started. And it had nothing to do with Jesus Christ, or His birth.
It was originally an ancient winter festival, the feast of the Son of Isis which was celebrated on December 25th. Partying, drinking and gift exchanging were all a part of the yearly holiday.
Over in Rome, they celebrated the Winter Solstice. That was celebrated many years before Jesus was ever born. The holiday at the time was called Saturnalia, where Saturn was honored as the god of Agriculture. In January they also celebrated Kalends, which celebrated triumph over death. It's entire season was named Dies Natalis Invicti Solis, the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun. In ancient Rome, Mummers would dress up and go around the neighborhoods, singing songs. From this "caroling" was given it's birth.
Over in northern Europe many of the traditions were believed to be of Christian worship in it's origins. These to were started long before Jesus Christ came on to the scene. The Pagans of the north celebrated their winter solstice named Yule. Yule was symbolic of the pagan Sun God, Mithras, being born, and was observed on the shortest day of the year. The custom included lighting candles and hope that Mithras and the sun would make an appearance the following year.
Yule logs at this time that were pretty big in size were burned in honor of the sun. Yule's meaning is "wheel". The wheel is a Pagan symbol representing the sun. Mistletoe was considered a sacred plant, and the custom of kissing under the mistletoe began as a fertility ritual.
As for the tree which in our current tradition of celebrating Christmas, it is the one symbol that has been able to united almost all the northern European winter solstices. The evergreen trees were brought home and werea reminder to the people that their crops will grow again once more. The Druids used the tree as a religious symbol, holding their sacred ceremonies while surrounding and worshiping huge trees.
Finally, in 350 AD, Pope Julius I declared that Christ’s birth would be celebrated on December 25. In doing so, even with no record of the exact date or time of the year Christ was born, though it is strongly believed to be within the Autumn months, the thought of a conversion to Christianity went more smoothly and people were not AS apprehensive. Seeing as their traditions of Paganism were not (at least completely) stripped away.
Christmas as we know it today, most historians agree, began in Germany, though Catholics and Lutherans still disagree about which church celebrated it first.
The earliest record of an evergreen being decorated in a Christian celebration was in 1521 in the Alsace region of Germany.
I encourage those that read this, and have the ability to do so, to watch the 5-part video series about the historical aspects of Christmas from History Channel.
Information for this post to be made possible provided by...
Christmas Pagan Origins
Monday, November 1, 2010
Trick Or Treating, Religious Convictions and "The Walking Dead"
Good morning post-Halloween, everyone! I hope that those that were able to, had a wonderful time trick-or-treating with their goblins and ghouls. It's one of the two favorite holidays of mine personally. The other being Christmas.
For most of my area here in Central Virginia (Lynchburg area), the children were able to Trick-Or-Treat on actual Halloween night. But there were a few areas that decided to either hold the holiday tradition on Saturday night, or wait until tonight (Monday) for them to go candy hunting due to Halloween falling on a Sunday this year.
Speaking of Trick-Or-Treating on an alternate night other than Halloween, I had become accustomed to the fact for a while when I had lived in Nevada "back in the day" of my late teens and early twenties. Nevada Day falls on Halloween. And so, being that there are many more tourists in town and also other big celebrations, along with parades, the state usually had them TOTing on the night before Halloween.
This year though, I had found out, thanks to my father that the children of (at least) their area were able to go candy collecting on the actual Halloween this year.
It should be this way everywhere. Personally, I do not see where a separate state or town should have ANY right to tell me and my kids that we cannot Trick-Or-Treat on Halloween if it falls on a Sunday. In other words, you are disgracing God by celebrating an "evil, Pagan ritualistic" holiday on the Lord's Day. And to a SMALL amount of people, it's not "right", so they want the date changed.
If YOUR Christian faith makes you feel convicted to not pass out goodies or let YOUR children Trick-r-Treat, then so be it. Do something more faith based or just keep your light off for the night and be a shut-in. But why ruin the evening for everyone else in your area by boo-hooing to City/County Counsel and force them to change for YOUR benefit of YOUR religious beliefs?
Whatever happened to "Separation of Church and State"? Does that not also apply to holidays where what may not be right for you, may just be okay with others around you? Personally, I think it is rather childish to cry foul over a freaking holiday. Just remember, Christmas is coming. And I can bet you, the ones that are "Jesus Freaks" to the fullest extent are gonna bitch to high heaven if a SMALL percentage of non-believers make a stink over the fact that religious symbols in a department store selling Christmas items.
You cannot have your cake and eat it too, people! Halloween, just like Christmas and Easter should be celebrated by the majority ON THE GIVEN DAY that it was intended to be celebrated. So what if it fell on a Sunday? Do you honestly think that God will think more of you for STILL celebrating that Pagan Holiday on any other day than Sunday? Wrong is still wrong when participating in "evil things" on ANY day of the week. Remember that.
Now, on to the next thing, seeing as I killed two birds with one stone. I feel like I'm on a roll today.
Let's talk about the new show on AMC (American Movie Classics channel). It's called "The Walking Dead". A deputy is shot and is in a coma for a chunk of time. When he wakes up, his world is completely different. In fact, deadly different. As in the walking dead different.
In the opening scene, a little girl is slowly walking as the deputy (post-hospital stint) sees her feet from under a vehicle, wearing bunny slippers. Her back is to him and when she turns around, you can see the severe bite mark on her face. She runs at him, hungry for flesh. He shoots her right in between the eyes and of course kills her for the final time.
As the show's premier episode kept on going, we got the back story of three (alive) characters and also we were able to view some pretty gruesome scenes of half or mostly eaten victims, including fellow zombies. Let's just say that all in all, NOTHING was really left to the imagination with this episode. Including the deputy's horse being torn apart and eaten by a hoard of ravishingly hungry walking poke-alongs.
As gruesome and grotesque as this show is, and knowing that it WILL GET much more graphic as the series moves along in it's rookie season, I personally do not feel that "The Walking Dead" should be on a channel such as American Movie Classics channel (AMC). It does not "fit" with the theme and feel of the channel its self. I see this show as more for the likes of HBO or Showtime. Mainly due to the show's EXTREMELY graphic nature.
"The Walking Dead" is most certainly not a television show for the faint of heart, nor for the squeamish of stomach. Some scenes even grossed ME out pretty bad. That's saying A LOT for me, if you know my taste in horror and thriller films.
So be warned my friends. If you cannot handle lots of blood, guts and gore, then I highly recommend that you do NOT watch "The Walking Dead".
For most of my area here in Central Virginia (Lynchburg area), the children were able to Trick-Or-Treat on actual Halloween night. But there were a few areas that decided to either hold the holiday tradition on Saturday night, or wait until tonight (Monday) for them to go candy hunting due to Halloween falling on a Sunday this year.
Speaking of Trick-Or-Treating on an alternate night other than Halloween, I had become accustomed to the fact for a while when I had lived in Nevada "back in the day" of my late teens and early twenties. Nevada Day falls on Halloween. And so, being that there are many more tourists in town and also other big celebrations, along with parades, the state usually had them TOTing on the night before Halloween.
This year though, I had found out, thanks to my father that the children of (at least) their area were able to go candy collecting on the actual Halloween this year.
It should be this way everywhere. Personally, I do not see where a separate state or town should have ANY right to tell me and my kids that we cannot Trick-Or-Treat on Halloween if it falls on a Sunday. In other words, you are disgracing God by celebrating an "evil, Pagan ritualistic" holiday on the Lord's Day. And to a SMALL amount of people, it's not "right", so they want the date changed.
If YOUR Christian faith makes you feel convicted to not pass out goodies or let YOUR children Trick-r-Treat, then so be it. Do something more faith based or just keep your light off for the night and be a shut-in. But why ruin the evening for everyone else in your area by boo-hooing to City/County Counsel and force them to change for YOUR benefit of YOUR religious beliefs?
Whatever happened to "Separation of Church and State"? Does that not also apply to holidays where what may not be right for you, may just be okay with others around you? Personally, I think it is rather childish to cry foul over a freaking holiday. Just remember, Christmas is coming. And I can bet you, the ones that are "Jesus Freaks" to the fullest extent are gonna bitch to high heaven if a SMALL percentage of non-believers make a stink over the fact that religious symbols in a department store selling Christmas items.
You cannot have your cake and eat it too, people! Halloween, just like Christmas and Easter should be celebrated by the majority ON THE GIVEN DAY that it was intended to be celebrated. So what if it fell on a Sunday? Do you honestly think that God will think more of you for STILL celebrating that Pagan Holiday on any other day than Sunday? Wrong is still wrong when participating in "evil things" on ANY day of the week. Remember that.
Now, on to the next thing, seeing as I killed two birds with one stone. I feel like I'm on a roll today.
Let's talk about the new show on AMC (American Movie Classics channel). It's called "The Walking Dead". A deputy is shot and is in a coma for a chunk of time. When he wakes up, his world is completely different. In fact, deadly different. As in the walking dead different.
In the opening scene, a little girl is slowly walking as the deputy (post-hospital stint) sees her feet from under a vehicle, wearing bunny slippers. Her back is to him and when she turns around, you can see the severe bite mark on her face. She runs at him, hungry for flesh. He shoots her right in between the eyes and of course kills her for the final time.
As the show's premier episode kept on going, we got the back story of three (alive) characters and also we were able to view some pretty gruesome scenes of half or mostly eaten victims, including fellow zombies. Let's just say that all in all, NOTHING was really left to the imagination with this episode. Including the deputy's horse being torn apart and eaten by a hoard of ravishingly hungry walking poke-alongs.
As gruesome and grotesque as this show is, and knowing that it WILL GET much more graphic as the series moves along in it's rookie season, I personally do not feel that "The Walking Dead" should be on a channel such as American Movie Classics channel (AMC). It does not "fit" with the theme and feel of the channel its self. I see this show as more for the likes of HBO or Showtime. Mainly due to the show's EXTREMELY graphic nature.
"The Walking Dead" is most certainly not a television show for the faint of heart, nor for the squeamish of stomach. Some scenes even grossed ME out pretty bad. That's saying A LOT for me, if you know my taste in horror and thriller films.
So be warned my friends. If you cannot handle lots of blood, guts and gore, then I highly recommend that you do NOT watch "The Walking Dead".
Friday, June 18, 2010
Knitting, Gays & Fundies...
Where to start?...I'm so frustrated, saddened and upset, I could spit a whole brown bag of nails.
As some of you know, I had a cousin who was more like a brother to me. He passed away many years ago, when I was fourteen. He died from complications of AIDS. And yes, he was an (openly) Gay man. But it was a tainted blood transfusion of all things that killed him. NOT from having "gay sex".
Also, in my "by-marriage" family, I now have a gay uncle, and a lesbian aunt. They both have life partners. And my aunt and her partner have two wonderful children. And they are some of the most wonderful people you could ever meet on this earth.
There is a friend that I have over at a social website named Colin. He lives in the UK with his life partner. He does BEAUTIFUL work with his gift of knitting. He was severely abused as a child. And yep. He is Gay, too! He loves showing his Lhasa Apso dogs, and is an avid blogger.
Colin as of late though, has been getting bombarded by comments over at his blog in the last several posts by Fundamental Christians. Primarily concerning his sexual lifestyle. And THEY apparently have "figured out" why Colin CHOSE to be gay.
EXCUSE ME?! I'm sorry. But by experience of having family members that are (were) gay, I can certainly say that ninety-nine percent of the GLBT population would not CHOOSE to be WHO they are. I refuse to say 'what', being that those that are G.,L.,B., or T. are still also human beings.
Who in their right mind would CHOOSE this lifestyle? Yeah, they WANT to be ridiculed, beaten, and even killed for WHO THEY LOVE and for WHO THEY ARE.
Who in this world has any rights to judge another person for who that person lays next to at night? How would YOU like to have a 'peeping tom' in YOUR bedroom?
To those that oppose same-sex relationships (and especially marriages), do you "do it" in any other position than just Missionary? You went against the Bible! Do you (MALES ONLY) ejaculate OUTSIDE of a female's vagina? You went against the Bible! Do you perform oral sex (for both genders)? You went against the Bible (and even some modern State-issued laws here in the USA)!
Now, where marriage is concerned, how are two, consenting, deeply-in-love, same-sex ADULTS ruining the "sanctity of marriage" by getting married? If you look around, us "straights" have done a bang-up job of screwing over the "sanctity" of marriage all on our own. We don't need a 'homo's' help in that department.
Hell, to be honest, gay/lesbian people have a better view and understanding of marriage than us "hetero's" do! I know more gay couples that have been together double, triple, and even quadruple the amount of time than that of their straight counterparts. Including my Aunt and my Uncle (by marriage).
So, my dear Christian Fundie readers, what do you have now to say about gays, marriage and the (non)-choice to be gay? Maybe I need to start spying in to your closets and your bedrooms. I bet I can find all kinds of skeletons and swords to use against you.
Now, if you care to read and actually get to know Colin (and see his (ART) works of knitting) then feel free to stop in on his blog page and maybe even leave him a note of encouragement...
http://colinknits.blogspot.com/2010/06/evil-states-of-mind.html
As some of you know, I had a cousin who was more like a brother to me. He passed away many years ago, when I was fourteen. He died from complications of AIDS. And yes, he was an (openly) Gay man. But it was a tainted blood transfusion of all things that killed him. NOT from having "gay sex".
Also, in my "by-marriage" family, I now have a gay uncle, and a lesbian aunt. They both have life partners. And my aunt and her partner have two wonderful children. And they are some of the most wonderful people you could ever meet on this earth.
There is a friend that I have over at a social website named Colin. He lives in the UK with his life partner. He does BEAUTIFUL work with his gift of knitting. He was severely abused as a child. And yep. He is Gay, too! He loves showing his Lhasa Apso dogs, and is an avid blogger.
Colin as of late though, has been getting bombarded by comments over at his blog in the last several posts by Fundamental Christians. Primarily concerning his sexual lifestyle. And THEY apparently have "figured out" why Colin CHOSE to be gay.
EXCUSE ME?! I'm sorry. But by experience of having family members that are (were) gay, I can certainly say that ninety-nine percent of the GLBT population would not CHOOSE to be WHO they are. I refuse to say 'what', being that those that are G.,L.,B., or T. are still also human beings.
Who in their right mind would CHOOSE this lifestyle? Yeah, they WANT to be ridiculed, beaten, and even killed for WHO THEY LOVE and for WHO THEY ARE.
Who in this world has any rights to judge another person for who that person lays next to at night? How would YOU like to have a 'peeping tom' in YOUR bedroom?
To those that oppose same-sex relationships (and especially marriages), do you "do it" in any other position than just Missionary? You went against the Bible! Do you (MALES ONLY) ejaculate OUTSIDE of a female's vagina? You went against the Bible! Do you perform oral sex (for both genders)? You went against the Bible (and even some modern State-issued laws here in the USA)!
Now, where marriage is concerned, how are two, consenting, deeply-in-love, same-sex ADULTS ruining the "sanctity of marriage" by getting married? If you look around, us "straights" have done a bang-up job of screwing over the "sanctity" of marriage all on our own. We don't need a 'homo's' help in that department.
Hell, to be honest, gay/lesbian people have a better view and understanding of marriage than us "hetero's" do! I know more gay couples that have been together double, triple, and even quadruple the amount of time than that of their straight counterparts. Including my Aunt and my Uncle (by marriage).
So, my dear Christian Fundie readers, what do you have now to say about gays, marriage and the (non)-choice to be gay? Maybe I need to start spying in to your closets and your bedrooms. I bet I can find all kinds of skeletons and swords to use against you.
Now, if you care to read and actually get to know Colin (and see his (ART) works of knitting) then feel free to stop in on his blog page and maybe even leave him a note of encouragement...
http://colinknits.blogspot.com/2010/06/evil-states-of-mind.html
Friday, May 28, 2010
Going out on a limb. And I may be getting kicked off. Shock may be found today. (ADULTS ONLY post!!)
I'm straight. I have been since I can remember what 1+1 equates to. I'm a Christian. But not a "die hard, Bible wielding, know every verse in the Good Book" kind. I'm a mother of three great kids. I'm married to the ultimate love of my life. And I at times have bisexual thoughts.
Does that last sentence turn you off? Does it turn you away? Or am I human? I have had these thoughts, fantasies and the curiosity for many, upon many years.
Now that you know this about me, am I "less of a Christian"? No. Am I "lost"? No. Do I feel that this is just a phase? No. Am I less of a friend before today's post? No. Are you? Maybe.
I am in a fan page site over on Facebook where a self-proclaimed "Christian", high school graduate, and college student is just not seeing the forest for the trees.
I'm very sorry, but like with ANY relationship (that is healthy and consensual), a gay/lesbian/bisexual's relationship(s) with their partner(s) is NOT completely and totally revolved around sex and having children. And I am so VERY tired of hearing that "argument", just as I am about the saying of "if we condone marriages of gays, then what's next....marrying ANIMALS?".
Last time I have checked, we humans ARE animals. We are of the mammalian variety. And we are listed as the highest animal species on the food chain, as well as intellect chain. And we have "animalistic" sex with our own species.
Also, it has been scientifically proven that thousands of animal species have homosexual sex amongst themselves. So, is God TOTALLY against homosexuality? Guess not, being He did create the animals. And they have no knowledge of Him, social viewpoints, nor of right from wrong in the sexual world.
Let's get down to the nitty gritty. And from this point, it's really an ADULT topic. And I don't plan to hide anything. If this changes how you think of me, or on how you view me, and you wish to no longer be my friend, then so be it. If you can't handle the REAL me, at it's fullest, then you have not the ability to be my TRUE friend.
On some occasions of love making with my husband, especially when we like it to be a little more rough and kinky, we pull out "THE" toy (rubber dick) and talk dirty (actually dirtier) with one another. As soon as he sets the mental scene of some three-some, and some girl-on-girl action, it totally sets my head spinning, driving me up the wall. Needless to say, between the physical aspects and the mental imagery, it makes me even hornier and gets me off even more so than "basic" sex.
Ever since I was a teenager, I have had fantasies about being with a girl/woman. And I have had the fantasies of being with both a man and another woman at the same time. But due to self-image and self-esteem issues, and now with having young children, to try out and fulfill those fantasies (that my husband and I share in) seems like a lost ship in the vast ocean.
I can't help who I am. I can't help the thoughts and feelings that I have. I can't be anyone else but me. And I refuse to hide that part of myself any longer. I have kept it tucked away, only being something that myself and my husband know. But not any longer.
And for those of you that are thinking this...No, I am NOT writing this for "shock value", to gain readers or comments. I am writing this because I felt it was FINALLY time to. I felt that I needed to be completely honest with myself, and those around me.
Like I stated earlier in the post, if this causes me to lose friends, then so be it. If they choose to NOT accept me for who I am, how I believe, how I view things and for not being the "Christian" that THEY feel I am not, then they were NEVER TRULY my 'friend' in the first place.
Does that last sentence turn you off? Does it turn you away? Or am I human? I have had these thoughts, fantasies and the curiosity for many, upon many years.
Now that you know this about me, am I "less of a Christian"? No. Am I "lost"? No. Do I feel that this is just a phase? No. Am I less of a friend before today's post? No. Are you? Maybe.
I am in a fan page site over on Facebook where a self-proclaimed "Christian", high school graduate, and college student is just not seeing the forest for the trees.
I'm very sorry, but like with ANY relationship (that is healthy and consensual), a gay/lesbian/bisexual's relationship(s) with their partner(s) is NOT completely and totally revolved around sex and having children. And I am so VERY tired of hearing that "argument", just as I am about the saying of "if we condone marriages of gays, then what's next....marrying ANIMALS?".
Last time I have checked, we humans ARE animals. We are of the mammalian variety. And we are listed as the highest animal species on the food chain, as well as intellect chain. And we have "animalistic" sex with our own species.
Also, it has been scientifically proven that thousands of animal species have homosexual sex amongst themselves. So, is God TOTALLY against homosexuality? Guess not, being He did create the animals. And they have no knowledge of Him, social viewpoints, nor of right from wrong in the sexual world.
Let's get down to the nitty gritty. And from this point, it's really an ADULT topic. And I don't plan to hide anything. If this changes how you think of me, or on how you view me, and you wish to no longer be my friend, then so be it. If you can't handle the REAL me, at it's fullest, then you have not the ability to be my TRUE friend.
On some occasions of love making with my husband, especially when we like it to be a little more rough and kinky, we pull out "THE" toy (rubber dick) and talk dirty (actually dirtier) with one another. As soon as he sets the mental scene of some three-some, and some girl-on-girl action, it totally sets my head spinning, driving me up the wall. Needless to say, between the physical aspects and the mental imagery, it makes me even hornier and gets me off even more so than "basic" sex.
Ever since I was a teenager, I have had fantasies about being with a girl/woman. And I have had the fantasies of being with both a man and another woman at the same time. But due to self-image and self-esteem issues, and now with having young children, to try out and fulfill those fantasies (that my husband and I share in) seems like a lost ship in the vast ocean.
I can't help who I am. I can't help the thoughts and feelings that I have. I can't be anyone else but me. And I refuse to hide that part of myself any longer. I have kept it tucked away, only being something that myself and my husband know. But not any longer.
And for those of you that are thinking this...No, I am NOT writing this for "shock value", to gain readers or comments. I am writing this because I felt it was FINALLY time to. I felt that I needed to be completely honest with myself, and those around me.
Like I stated earlier in the post, if this causes me to lose friends, then so be it. If they choose to NOT accept me for who I am, how I believe, how I view things and for not being the "Christian" that THEY feel I am not, then they were NEVER TRULY my 'friend' in the first place.
Monday, May 10, 2010
I'm Me...Don't Expect More, You Won't Get But What I Can Give To The (Blogging) World.
After reading a friend's blog over at http://singedwingangel.blogspot.com/ by it's Author, Angel, I felt like I need to "explain" myself.
I have never been one, even as a little kid (but with rare exception, of course) to want what everyone else has, or to do what everyone else is doing. It's just not in my nature.
I'm the type that I "do my own thing" and I don't care what you think, either. Don't like it? Don't read it/watch it/be around it, I say. I'm not here to honestly please anyone (except my husband, my kids and ultimately, myself).
Have you noticed, I don't have "Bloggy Buttons", I don't do "Carnivals", I don't go out of my way to gain readers, I don't cater to people (unless I ask for topic ideas, which I have, and view as different from 'catering').
My readers come to me. Either by reading a post via Facebook, where it auto-posts my blog entries, by Networked Blogs application over at Facebook, by "word of mouth" via my readers I already have, or by my "Fan Page" I have for this blog page.
I'm not writing really to gain readers or popularity. I write to express myself, my views, my opinions, to share about my life as a mom/wife/Christian/parenting a Special Needs Child. Sometimes, I'm funny as all get out. Sometimes, I'm very serious. And at times, I can be both.
This blog is for ME. It's my outlet. My way of expression. My blog is not for a Popularity Contest, to see how many readers I can get to 'follow' me. Not to gain sympathy or a slew of comments. I like to educate others who may not know what it's like to parent a child with Mental Illness/Disorders/Disabilities. And to educate the populous in regards to Organ/Eye/Tissue Donation (I myself am a Donor, as well as a Corneal Transplant Recipient).
So, while my blog page may look "boring", being I don't have bunch of buttons, links to other bloggers, fancy page decorations and a "Nation's Populations in it's self" number of readers (that most don't even comment anyways), it's who I am...
Simple, comfortable, unpopular (nothing new there lol), and most of all...TRUE TO MYSELF and REAL (what you see on my page, posts and in between is who/what I REALLY am like in the REAL world).
If you want someone to "keep up with the Joneses" in bloggy circles and cliques, please do us both a favor, find another girl (or guy). Because this Blog Writer has too much else to do than keep up with the Joneses. I have a hard enough time keeping up with three kids, three cats, a husband, a two-story home (full basement) and life in general.
I have never been one, even as a little kid (but with rare exception, of course) to want what everyone else has, or to do what everyone else is doing. It's just not in my nature.
I'm the type that I "do my own thing" and I don't care what you think, either. Don't like it? Don't read it/watch it/be around it, I say. I'm not here to honestly please anyone (except my husband, my kids and ultimately, myself).
Have you noticed, I don't have "Bloggy Buttons", I don't do "Carnivals", I don't go out of my way to gain readers, I don't cater to people (unless I ask for topic ideas, which I have, and view as different from 'catering').
My readers come to me. Either by reading a post via Facebook, where it auto-posts my blog entries, by Networked Blogs application over at Facebook, by "word of mouth" via my readers I already have, or by my "Fan Page" I have for this blog page.
I'm not writing really to gain readers or popularity. I write to express myself, my views, my opinions, to share about my life as a mom/wife/Christian/parenting a Special Needs Child. Sometimes, I'm funny as all get out. Sometimes, I'm very serious. And at times, I can be both.
This blog is for ME. It's my outlet. My way of expression. My blog is not for a Popularity Contest, to see how many readers I can get to 'follow' me. Not to gain sympathy or a slew of comments. I like to educate others who may not know what it's like to parent a child with Mental Illness/Disorders/Disabilities. And to educate the populous in regards to Organ/Eye/Tissue Donation (I myself am a Donor, as well as a Corneal Transplant Recipient).
So, while my blog page may look "boring", being I don't have bunch of buttons, links to other bloggers, fancy page decorations and a "Nation's Populations in it's self" number of readers (that most don't even comment anyways), it's who I am...
Simple, comfortable, unpopular (nothing new there lol), and most of all...TRUE TO MYSELF and REAL (what you see on my page, posts and in between is who/what I REALLY am like in the REAL world).
If you want someone to "keep up with the Joneses" in bloggy circles and cliques, please do us both a favor, find another girl (or guy). Because this Blog Writer has too much else to do than keep up with the Joneses. I have a hard enough time keeping up with three kids, three cats, a husband, a two-story home (full basement) and life in general.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Hate-induced group has NO place on Facebook! (link incl)
President Barrack Hussein Obama. He was voted in to the White House by voters that happened to get the majority. He is half black, half white. He was whom I voted for.
Today, am I pleased with ALL of his policies and Federal Spending? Nope! But I also realize that the poor guy has one hell of a mess to clean up after what all transpired the previous eight years.
I'm mad with Pres. Obama for a couple of things. Like any other politician, he back slid on his promises. But this time, I was too gullible to not see the forest for the trees.
But do I wish and/or pray for our President to DIE?! Either by God's hand or a fellow human beings...No!
Sadly though, there IS a Facebook group/page that IS doing just that. And at this point in time, they have OVER ONE MILLION "fans". Some are even sick enough to cheer on in the group that they HOPE someone will soon be sure that their prayer is answered.
Those that think it's funny to be a part of a "prayer page" titled "DEAR LORD, THIS YEAR YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTOR, PATRICK SWAYZIE. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTRESS, FARA...H FAWCETT. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE SINGER, MICHAEL JACKSON. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW, MY FAVORITE PRESIDENT IS BARACK OBAMA. AMEN " , guess what? IT'S NOT FUNNY!
Honestly, go LOOK deeply in to that hate-filled, volatile group. Read what "supposed Christians" are saying. Look at those disturbing pictures. Read their Discussions. Then, take a GOOD LOOK at yourself, your friends, your family...and most of all, your country.
This is NOT what America was founded upon, or to stand for!
Joking even about wanting the POTUS dead is considered a FEDERAL Offense, as well as a Felony. Praying for the man's demise is SICK, as well as VERY anti-Christian. The Bible speaks of praying FOR our leaders. Not AGAINST them, or to wish them ill-will.
The POTUS is not only a National Leader. But a father and a husband. Take out his name, and replace it with yours, your child's or your husband's name. Does it sound funny to you anymore? I bet you not!
Oh, and the Constitution does NOT protect ANY form of hate speech. Joking or serious. And it is not considered "Freedom of Speech" to invoke others to incite violence, especially against National Leaders.
Saying that the President is an asshole and his policies suck is one thing. THAT IS protected by your Constitutional Rights to Free Speech. But that is far as it can go.
Just like yelling "FIRE!" in a public place when there is no fire, just out of joking, is considered a felony and NOT protected by your rights to Free Speech. So yes Virginia, there IS a limitation to so-called "Free Speech".
The United States has become exactly like a house divided. And the way we are going in these two directions, a second Civil War is looming. I can see it coming from a mile away. Is this REALLY what "we the people" want?! A SECOND Civil War?
As for the self-proclaimed Christians of that horrendous page, I myself PERSONALLY do NOT see them as "Christians". If they were REAL Christians, they would NOT think it was funny. They would NOT stand for a "prayer" such as that. They would NOT be praying in REAL life for ANYONE's life to be snuffed out for things especially as trivial as policy decisions.
Like or dislike President Obama. Like or dislike his policies. Like or dislike his race even. But do NOT ever even jokingly wish/hope for his demise in the manner of DEATH.
Today, am I pleased with ALL of his policies and Federal Spending? Nope! But I also realize that the poor guy has one hell of a mess to clean up after what all transpired the previous eight years.
I'm mad with Pres. Obama for a couple of things. Like any other politician, he back slid on his promises. But this time, I was too gullible to not see the forest for the trees.
But do I wish and/or pray for our President to DIE?! Either by God's hand or a fellow human beings...No!
Sadly though, there IS a Facebook group/page that IS doing just that. And at this point in time, they have OVER ONE MILLION "fans". Some are even sick enough to cheer on in the group that they HOPE someone will soon be sure that their prayer is answered.
Those that think it's funny to be a part of a "prayer page" titled "DEAR LORD, THIS YEAR YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTOR, PATRICK SWAYZIE. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTRESS, FARA...H FAWCETT. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE SINGER, MICHAEL JACKSON. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW, MY FAVORITE PRESIDENT IS BARACK OBAMA. AMEN " , guess what? IT'S NOT FUNNY!
Honestly, go LOOK deeply in to that hate-filled, volatile group. Read what "supposed Christians" are saying. Look at those disturbing pictures. Read their Discussions. Then, take a GOOD LOOK at yourself, your friends, your family...and most of all, your country.
This is NOT what America was founded upon, or to stand for!
Joking even about wanting the POTUS dead is considered a FEDERAL Offense, as well as a Felony. Praying for the man's demise is SICK, as well as VERY anti-Christian. The Bible speaks of praying FOR our leaders. Not AGAINST them, or to wish them ill-will.
The POTUS is not only a National Leader. But a father and a husband. Take out his name, and replace it with yours, your child's or your husband's name. Does it sound funny to you anymore? I bet you not!
Oh, and the Constitution does NOT protect ANY form of hate speech. Joking or serious. And it is not considered "Freedom of Speech" to invoke others to incite violence, especially against National Leaders.
Saying that the President is an asshole and his policies suck is one thing. THAT IS protected by your Constitutional Rights to Free Speech. But that is far as it can go.
Just like yelling "FIRE!" in a public place when there is no fire, just out of joking, is considered a felony and NOT protected by your rights to Free Speech. So yes Virginia, there IS a limitation to so-called "Free Speech".
The United States has become exactly like a house divided. And the way we are going in these two directions, a second Civil War is looming. I can see it coming from a mile away. Is this REALLY what "we the people" want?! A SECOND Civil War?
As for the self-proclaimed Christians of that horrendous page, I myself PERSONALLY do NOT see them as "Christians". If they were REAL Christians, they would NOT think it was funny. They would NOT stand for a "prayer" such as that. They would NOT be praying in REAL life for ANYONE's life to be snuffed out for things especially as trivial as policy decisions.
Like or dislike President Obama. Like or dislike his policies. Like or dislike his race even. But do NOT ever even jokingly wish/hope for his demise in the manner of DEATH.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The REAL and the TRUE meaning of the holiday, Easter.
It's once again that time. Spring is blooming all around. Life is becoming anew once more. Birds are singing, grass is greening, flowers (and trees) are blooming.
There is a primary, universal symbol of Spring that is on the horizon as well. Easter. For many families (especially with small children), the "Easter Bunny" will be coming to town to sneakingly leave candy-filled eggs, baskets filled with goodies and to mark his place in holiday history and folklore.
But, what about the TRUE meaning of Easter? It has sadly lost it's REAL meaning among the masses.
The simplest of answers is that Jesus rose from the grave to go to Heaven. It is to celebrate that day that He has arisen.
But, let's delve deeper in to that simplicity, shall we?
7He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
9After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
10They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11"Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
So, as you can see, the TRUE and the REAL meaning of Easter is not in candy, eggs, or worldly gifts of the flesh. It is of the soul/spirit of us and the Saving Grace that was given to us. It is of Jesus Christ symbolizing an embodiment of love and sacrifice. He gave of Himself, at His Holy Father's request to be the ultimate Sacrifice for us. He triumphed over the powers of death.
The Lord, our God gave all for us and our well being. He gave us a way in to Heaven. He arose and had beaten physical death to give us everlasting spiritual life with Him and our Father.
This is the real meaning of Easter....
There is a primary, universal symbol of Spring that is on the horizon as well. Easter. For many families (especially with small children), the "Easter Bunny" will be coming to town to sneakingly leave candy-filled eggs, baskets filled with goodies and to mark his place in holiday history and folklore.
But, what about the TRUE meaning of Easter? It has sadly lost it's REAL meaning among the masses.
The simplest of answers is that Jesus rose from the grave to go to Heaven. It is to celebrate that day that He has arisen.
But, let's delve deeper in to that simplicity, shall we?
1 Corinthians 15:3-6 (via http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+COR.15&version=NIV)
3For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance[a]: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that he appeared to Peter,[b] and then to the Twelve. 6After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.
If you look carefully at the RED, highlighted areas, we will be primarily concentrating on those key points.
God spoke to Jesus as he went off and prayed for 40 days and 40 nights and said to Him that Jesus was to be the "Sacrificial Lamb" to save all of humanity. So, Jesus had done as His Heavenly Father bequeathed of His Holy Son and went off to prepare the others as to what was to come.
Hence the Last Supper. Jesus told the Disciples that night that one of them would betray Him. Of course, as we all know, that became to be Peter. He denied Christ. All to save his own skin and in the end, Jesus was caught, tried by Pontius Pilate and convicted of baring False Witness to the masses, "claiming" to be the true Son of God.
After Pilate, ruler over the Roman empire at that time asked his subjects if Jesus should be spared, the crowd went wild and called for his execution, via being nailed to the cross. But SPARED the thief. All in the name of making Jesus an "example" of what happens to those that claim to be the Holy One of God.
Now, we all know what happened next. Jesus was nailed by His hands and His feet to a wooden cross. He was humiliated and had things thrown at Him. Finally, after HOURS upon the cross, He exclaimed, "It is finished!". Then, Jesus hung His head and gave His spirit to His Father.
After His death, Jesus was removed from the cross. But not before the spear was driven through His side to confirm that indeed Jesus was dead.
The next day was the Sabbath. So preparation and placing of the body had to be done quickly. For, no death preparations were to be made during Sabbath. Joseph pleaded to Pilate to let him have Jesus' remains. It was allowed.
Jesus then was taken to the tomb, accompanied by Nicodemus. There was brought myrrh, aloes, and other spices. His body was wrapped in fine linens. Then, He was anointed and the burial tomb was then sealed by a huge bolder that was rolled in front of the entrance.
When the two Marys came back to check on the tomb, to their amazement and disbelief, the tomb's entrance was uncovered, with the boulder setting off to the side. Someone somehow OPENED the tomb. As the Marys entered, they found no one there! Jesus was gone. They panicked. Simon Peter was told that Jesus was missing.
As Mary Magdalene wept, Jesus came to her and asked why she was weeping. Mary looked up, and to her amazement, saw Jesus Christ standing before her. The Lord then asked whom Mary was searching for. Being that Mary's back was turned, she did not realize it was Jesus standing by her. She turned and exclaimed "Teacher!"
Christ told Mary He had not yet returned to the Father, and to not "hold Him". He then sent her forth to tell the Disciples that Christ the Lord has arisen and returned from the grave.
Jesus then appeared to them on the "evening of the first day of the week" and had shown His followers the marks of His hands and of His feet as proof that it was indeed the Living Christ.
Then, He appeared to Thomas, who had still not believed that indeed the Lord God had arisen from His death and tomb. So, Thomas was instructed to place his hand upon Jesus' side. Then, Thomas believed that Jesus spoke the truth.
Jesus stayed with His Disciples for a bit, until God had called Him home. Then, the following happened...
(Acts 1:6-11.. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1&version=NIV)
6So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?"7He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
9After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
10They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11"Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
So, as you can see, the TRUE and the REAL meaning of Easter is not in candy, eggs, or worldly gifts of the flesh. It is of the soul/spirit of us and the Saving Grace that was given to us. It is of Jesus Christ symbolizing an embodiment of love and sacrifice. He gave of Himself, at His Holy Father's request to be the ultimate Sacrifice for us. He triumphed over the powers of death.
The Lord, our God gave all for us and our well being. He gave us a way in to Heaven. He arose and had beaten physical death to give us everlasting spiritual life with Him and our Father.
This is the real meaning of Easter....
Monday, February 8, 2010
Make assumptions again and see where it gets you. (Defense of a friend)
With the way that I am feeling right now, I will try my best to stay calm and (for the most part) respectful. Then again, after seeing my friend, Angel get ripped apart, although in a "Christ-like manner", I don't feel like being so polite.
Then again, someone has to take the 'high road' right? May as well be me I'm guessing.
I've NEVER claimed to be a 'perfect' Christian/soul. And I never plan to. It is true that I am for equality for the GLBT Community to get married. I am one that can vote Democratically or Conservatively. I don't read, let alone have I memorized the Bible texts as much as a Christian should (in many minds).
But I love God no less. And He loves me no less. And for someone to tramps all over a friend and her PERSONAL walk with the Lord to me is a sin in and of its self. *Some* Christian "fanatics" are so freaking uptight and in to everyone else's Christian walk, snubbing them for every little "fleshly fault", that they refuse to remove the plank from their eye before removing the speck from another's.
This is why I can't stand those that are called "Holy Roller", "Bible-Thumping", "Dogmatic" Christians.
Believe me when I say I KNOW first-hand what I speak of. Especially the hypocrisy. I've lived through it, via my Dad's mother when I was little. She would force me in to attending church, scare me in to submission, and nit-picked everything I said, did, felt or believed. Even when it came to religion and MY way of worshiping, believing and practicing my Christianity.
When people in general start making generalized assumptions about those they know NOTHING about, and especially those that they THINK that they know about, said person is treading in dangerous and deep waters. They are the ones showing that they know NOTHING about a problem or situation. Especially when you don't sit down and find out what is TRULY going on from the "horse's mouth".
And for someone to make a general assumption about me, my knowledge of something, or of my faith/walk is treading in shark-infested water with me. I don't make personal "attacks" or assumptions towards others. And for a "Christian" to do it unto me is well...un-Christian like. Too bad they are so blinded by their "religious ways" that they are not able to see that they are doing more harm than good.
My friend, Angel lead me to a certain chat room a few months back for a church that she attends. Both online and in person. I watched a sermon and was fitting right in with those in the chat. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I "belonged" and that I was truly cared for. Angel gave me hope in Christianity and my faith again.
Now, that room has been shut down. No longer can I go and see those I befriended and be a part of a wonderful ministry. At least for now.
But one of the nay-sayers of the room decided to claim I know "nothing" about what all went down and why. Too bad she decided to "call me out" on false pretense and assumptions. Because I know more...WAY MORE than she thinks I do.
And worse yet, she hurt a dear friend and sister-in-Christ. That for me is 1,000's times worse. And I refuse to stand here and let it happen.
BRING BACK THE CHAT ROOM!....And stop being a "always right" Christian who talks the talk, but can't seem to walk the walk.
Then again, someone has to take the 'high road' right? May as well be me I'm guessing.
I've NEVER claimed to be a 'perfect' Christian/soul. And I never plan to. It is true that I am for equality for the GLBT Community to get married. I am one that can vote Democratically or Conservatively. I don't read, let alone have I memorized the Bible texts as much as a Christian should (in many minds).
But I love God no less. And He loves me no less. And for someone to tramps all over a friend and her PERSONAL walk with the Lord to me is a sin in and of its self. *Some* Christian "fanatics" are so freaking uptight and in to everyone else's Christian walk, snubbing them for every little "fleshly fault", that they refuse to remove the plank from their eye before removing the speck from another's.
This is why I can't stand those that are called "Holy Roller", "Bible-Thumping", "Dogmatic" Christians.
Believe me when I say I KNOW first-hand what I speak of. Especially the hypocrisy. I've lived through it, via my Dad's mother when I was little. She would force me in to attending church, scare me in to submission, and nit-picked everything I said, did, felt or believed. Even when it came to religion and MY way of worshiping, believing and practicing my Christianity.
When people in general start making generalized assumptions about those they know NOTHING about, and especially those that they THINK that they know about, said person is treading in dangerous and deep waters. They are the ones showing that they know NOTHING about a problem or situation. Especially when you don't sit down and find out what is TRULY going on from the "horse's mouth".
And for someone to make a general assumption about me, my knowledge of something, or of my faith/walk is treading in shark-infested water with me. I don't make personal "attacks" or assumptions towards others. And for a "Christian" to do it unto me is well...un-Christian like. Too bad they are so blinded by their "religious ways" that they are not able to see that they are doing more harm than good.
My friend, Angel lead me to a certain chat room a few months back for a church that she attends. Both online and in person. I watched a sermon and was fitting right in with those in the chat. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I "belonged" and that I was truly cared for. Angel gave me hope in Christianity and my faith again.
Now, that room has been shut down. No longer can I go and see those I befriended and be a part of a wonderful ministry. At least for now.
But one of the nay-sayers of the room decided to claim I know "nothing" about what all went down and why. Too bad she decided to "call me out" on false pretense and assumptions. Because I know more...WAY MORE than she thinks I do.
And worse yet, she hurt a dear friend and sister-in-Christ. That for me is 1,000's times worse. And I refuse to stand here and let it happen.
BRING BACK THE CHAT ROOM!....And stop being a "always right" Christian who talks the talk, but can't seem to walk the walk.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Devotional Sunday
Trust. It is something that is earned over time. As children, we trusted our parents to clothe us, feed us and keep a roof over our heads. As a spouse, we place trust in our husbands or wives to be faithful only unto us.
Once again, I had to place my trust in God. I had to trust in Him to help me through (once again) a really tough place in my life and knew in the end, I will come out just fine in the end. So far, He has yet to fail me. For thus far, my eye is getting better (minus a set back here and there) every day.
In the book of Psalms it says...
Psalm 25:2
in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.
And sure enough the enemy I had to fight has yet to prevail. And I don't plan on letting it either. For my God is beside me, leading me along to a full recovery. He will not leave my side, no matter how bad it will possibly get in my life.
My trust in Him may wane a bit here and there, but it is there. I often wonder if He enjoys testing me. Who knows. All I know is that Jesus Christ has enough faith and trust in me to lean upon His shoulder and let Him carry me once in a while. He knows at times I need the rest and comfort of His trusting arms.
Once again, I had to place my trust in God. I had to trust in Him to help me through (once again) a really tough place in my life and knew in the end, I will come out just fine in the end. So far, He has yet to fail me. For thus far, my eye is getting better (minus a set back here and there) every day.
In the book of Psalms it says...
Psalm 25:2
in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.
And sure enough the enemy I had to fight has yet to prevail. And I don't plan on letting it either. For my God is beside me, leading me along to a full recovery. He will not leave my side, no matter how bad it will possibly get in my life.
My trust in Him may wane a bit here and there, but it is there. I often wonder if He enjoys testing me. Who knows. All I know is that Jesus Christ has enough faith and trust in me to lean upon His shoulder and let Him carry me once in a while. He knows at times I need the rest and comfort of His trusting arms.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Devotional Sunday (Change from Testimony Sunday)
Isaiah 35:10
and the ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:9-10 (in Context) Isaiah 35
Every one of us here on earth will suffer sorrow. But all of us will experience the great joy that life also has to offer.
Believe me when I say that I have had more than my fair share of sorrow. From the time that I was born in fact. And when you tally them all up that I have collected thus far, many may wonder how I am able to see the positivity in anything.
Even though a time or two, I had lost my faith in God, He never once lost His faith on me. Even when I turned a blind eye to Him.
In the end, after walking through all of the Valleys that I have traveled, I have reached the Mountain Top. Sure, I will be pushed back down in to the Valley again a few more times before my life's journey here is over.
But I know that once I walk through the Valley, that the Mountain Top is there waiting for my return.
and the ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:9-10 (in Context) Isaiah 35
Every one of us here on earth will suffer sorrow. But all of us will experience the great joy that life also has to offer.
Believe me when I say that I have had more than my fair share of sorrow. From the time that I was born in fact. And when you tally them all up that I have collected thus far, many may wonder how I am able to see the positivity in anything.
Even though a time or two, I had lost my faith in God, He never once lost His faith on me. Even when I turned a blind eye to Him.
In the end, after walking through all of the Valleys that I have traveled, I have reached the Mountain Top. Sure, I will be pushed back down in to the Valley again a few more times before my life's journey here is over.
But I know that once I walk through the Valley, that the Mountain Top is there waiting for my return.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Trials, Tribulations, and Test-Taking
This is a subject that I had touched on yesterday in my secondary blog...
Resigning to Fate.
We all at some point in our lives will have to do this. Some sooner than others. Some in a higher fashion than others. Some with more pain or hurt than others.
So to get the following on FaceBook's application, "God Wants You To Know" this morning, it was even more clear than ever to me.
Resigning to Fate.
We all at some point in our lives will have to do this. Some sooner than others. Some in a higher fashion than others. Some with more pain or hurt than others.
So to get the following on FaceBook's application, "God Wants You To Know" this morning, it was even more clear than ever to me.
... that today you have a cause for celebration. Today, you should celebrate what an unbelievable life you have had so far: the accomplishments, the many blessings, and, yes, even the hardships because they have served to make you stronger. Just as a gem cannot be polished without friction, nor can a life be perfected without trials. Take a time to acknowledge your life and to praise yourself.
Sit there and really think about this. How does that passage fit in to your life, and the lives of your family.
Personally, I have had many ups and downs. Many trials, that most people would just crawl in to a hole, bury themselves, and never even attempt to crawl out. And this last 'trial' of my strength, courage, faith, and to see how truly blessed I really am was severely put to the test.
Even today, I am dealing with a small...yes SMALL setback in my recovery from Corneal Transplant surgery. I'm just thankful it wasn't worse. Let alone rejection. Which can happen at any given point in my life.
But I can't let that POSSIBILITY, which at this point has greatly lessened in chance stop me from living. It just means that I have to be vigilant and watch my eye more closely from now on.
No matter what trials and tribulations come your way, you must take it in stride. Those things that you think will make you weak, will in actuality make you a stronger person, and more recognizing of what people and blessings you do have, compared to what you did lose, and might lose.
Believe me, I know all too well what I am talking of.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Testimony Sunday
(From 'God Wants You To Know' application on FaceBook)
"On this day, God wants you to know...
... that all is well. What could you not accept, if you but knew that everything that happens, all events, past, present, and to come, are gently planned by One Whose only purpose is your good?"
All I could say when I first read this one was a huge "WOW!!". How powerful to me those words are. And they really hit home for me.
When I was born, I had birth defects internally. By medical standards, I wasn't supposed to live past my first twenty four to fourty eight hours of life. Then, not more than a month to maybe a year.
That was almost thirty three years ago.
My mother passed away when I was almost shy of becoming thirteen. That is when the doubting and anger started. Not at her. Not at myself. But at God.
He ruined my life. He ruined my plans. He ruined everything for me in that one moment in time. He took my mother and everything ahead I had seen coming. My Prom, graduation, marriage. All the things that a mother is supposed to be there for when her daughter gets to those milestones in her life.
For not just months, but for years after, I hated the Lord. I hated Him with a passion for turning on me as He did (in my eyes). What He had done to me was beyond cruel.
It wasn't until that final internal battle for my soul, years after my mother's death, between Satan's lies, and the Lord's Truth, both speaking to me, that I had seen the light clearly.
When that moment came, and I realized that it was just all a small part in God's huge plan for me, the anger, the resentment, the pain all subsided. In an instant, I felt freer than I had for such a long time. Because I had seen that my mother's death was leading to better things down the road for me.
My mother was overly protective. Understandably so, I may say. I guess I would be as well, if my child had the problems I did. But it hendered my childhood, and my overall recovery process.
After her death, I was able to get my trach removed, and closed. I went on to have a family of my own (that I was told would not be medically possible), and have recieved a second chance to see with a Corneal Transplant on my left eye on the date of mom's passing (10/29/89).
It's hard at times, knowing she is missing the beautiful life that I have. But I also know deep down she sees all of us. And that God is not finished with the bigger plans of my life.
Because all the little bumps and twists ARE a small, entrical piece of the bigger picture.
"On this day, God wants you to know...
... that all is well. What could you not accept, if you but knew that everything that happens, all events, past, present, and to come, are gently planned by One Whose only purpose is your good?"
All I could say when I first read this one was a huge "WOW!!". How powerful to me those words are. And they really hit home for me.
When I was born, I had birth defects internally. By medical standards, I wasn't supposed to live past my first twenty four to fourty eight hours of life. Then, not more than a month to maybe a year.
That was almost thirty three years ago.
My mother passed away when I was almost shy of becoming thirteen. That is when the doubting and anger started. Not at her. Not at myself. But at God.
He ruined my life. He ruined my plans. He ruined everything for me in that one moment in time. He took my mother and everything ahead I had seen coming. My Prom, graduation, marriage. All the things that a mother is supposed to be there for when her daughter gets to those milestones in her life.
For not just months, but for years after, I hated the Lord. I hated Him with a passion for turning on me as He did (in my eyes). What He had done to me was beyond cruel.
It wasn't until that final internal battle for my soul, years after my mother's death, between Satan's lies, and the Lord's Truth, both speaking to me, that I had seen the light clearly.
When that moment came, and I realized that it was just all a small part in God's huge plan for me, the anger, the resentment, the pain all subsided. In an instant, I felt freer than I had for such a long time. Because I had seen that my mother's death was leading to better things down the road for me.
My mother was overly protective. Understandably so, I may say. I guess I would be as well, if my child had the problems I did. But it hendered my childhood, and my overall recovery process.
After her death, I was able to get my trach removed, and closed. I went on to have a family of my own (that I was told would not be medically possible), and have recieved a second chance to see with a Corneal Transplant on my left eye on the date of mom's passing (10/29/89).
It's hard at times, knowing she is missing the beautiful life that I have. But I also know deep down she sees all of us. And that God is not finished with the bigger plans of my life.
Because all the little bumps and twists ARE a small, entrical piece of the bigger picture.
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