Here's this week's Top 5 review... but considering that the majority of the top 5 songs are the same as last week, I thought I'd go ahead and review the top 10 today. If I don't have a review underneath a song, that means I've reviewed it before and you'll find the review either here or here.
1. THUMBS DOWN: "Born This Way" by Lady Gaga
2. THUMBS DOWN: "F**** You" by Cee Lo Green
3. ISH: "Grenade" by Bruno Mars
4. THUMBS DOWN: "I Need a Doctor" by Dr. Dre, featuring Eminem and Skylar Grey
Several artists contributed to this popular song, but I'm going to have to give it a thumbs down. There is a ton of cussing in this song. The f-word is used 10 times. The s-word is used twice. The a-word is used once. Other derogatory terms like fa***t and bas**** are also used. After listening to all of the swearing in this song, I almost felt like I needed to take a shower. They're so filthy. Overall, the song seems to be about someone who has been hurt, but it's filled with anger and bitterness. I couldn't find anything uplifting about it.
5. THUMBS UP: "Firework" by Katy Perry
6. THUMBS DOWN: "F***ing Perfect" by P!nk
7. THUMBS DOWN: "S&M" by Rihanna
8. THUMBS UP: "Never Say Never" by Justin Bieber, featuring Jaden Smith
Justin Bieber is not my style of music, but this song is clean, which is more than I can say about most of the songs on this top 10 list. The song has a good message, although it kind of contradicts itself. Never say never? He just said it twice. ;) But the lyrics encourage kids to stand up for what they believe and strive to achieve their dreams, which is commendable. "I will never say never. I will fight till forever. Whenever you knock me down, I will not stay on the ground. Pick it up, pick it up... and never say never."
Jaden Smith raps the bridge of this song and is adorable. "No pun intended, but was raised with the power of Will." Ha! The song also mentions a Bible reference at one point. "I gotta be the best, and yes, we're the flyest. Like David and Goliath, I conquered the giant." Overall, the song seems encouraging and inspiring to young kids and to all of you teenage girls reading this blog who secretly (or not so secretly) love Justin Bieber.
9. THUMBS DOWN: "Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)" by Enrique Iglesias, featuring Ludacris and DJ Frank E
10. THUMBS DOWN: "Black and Yellow" by Wiz Khalifa
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Jack's Squeakies
Jack has taken up the habit of shoving a toy into his mouth when he's excited. When I get home, when he wakes up from a nap,
when I talk to him in a sweet voice... he always fills his mouth with some sort of a toy. I love when he tries to bark and his voice comes out muffled.In the picture to the left, I had just gotten home from church. Jack was feeling sweet, so he jumped up on the bed and flattened his ears against his head like he always does. Of course he had to grab a toy.
These colorful squeaky balls are some of Jack's favorite toys. They're crazy loud. Sadly, Jack's broken the squeakers in all three of his balls. It's the most pitiful thing to hear them wheezing as Jack tries to squeak them.
I just love puppy kisses, don't you?When I get home and Jack grabs his toy, I usually fling it away and he'll practically attack me, showering with kisses and letting me know how excited he is that I love him.
I like how Jack has huge, fluffy legs and the daintiest little paws. I have no idea how he balances on his tiny feet. He's so funny.
Have you noticed that Jack is changing colors? My little baby is growing up.
And for the last photo of the day, here is my darling Jack trying so hard to get to the bowl of popcorn beside the couch. If he was just a little bit bigger...
Saturday, February 26, 2011
No Joke.
I have to take care of a Ready-or-Not Tot for my economics class at school. It cries all the time: while I'm driving, sleeping, taking a shower. It's torture. Everyone in my senior class has to take care of one of these babies at some point. Yesterday, my friend and I were joking around about how much we hated taking care of the baby, and my friend laughed and said something like, "You know what? Life isn't even worth living. Let's just get a couple of guns and end it all. We can point them at our own heads- no, I'll point mine at your head and you point yours at my head- and we can die together."
To be honest, I wasn't sure how to respond. I know he was kidding, but I've been thinking. At what point is it okay to joke about suicide? When does it cross a line? Should it be crossing a line?
If you're a regular reader of this blog, then you know that a friend of mine committed suicide three years ago.
More than 5,000 teens end their lives every year. That breaks my heart. 5,000 teens is like a small university being wiped off the face of the earth. 5,000 is nearly double those who died on 9/11. 5,000 is more than many small towns in Texas. Those were 5,000 kids who had families and friends who were devastated after they learned their loved one was gone. 5,000 is a lot of people, and that's just the teens. 30,000 people of all ages commit suicide each year.
Joking around about suicide, twisting your hand into the shape of a gun and bringing it to your head when you're bored or annoyed, making suicide sound so lighthearted when it should be such a serious thing... this needs to end. Now.
Suicide isn't a joke. It ends a life and it emotionally destroys those who care about the one who died. It's such a difficult thing to heal from. And as one who has once considered suicide as an alternative to the life I lived, let me tell you... feelings of suicide are no joking matter either. They're so, so, so serious. I can't emphasize this enough. Don't let someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts or depression see you make a joke about suicide and make light of the feelings that are consuming his life right now.
You've possibly joked around about killing yourself before. You know, before my friend committed suicide, I would. I'd bring my finger to my head like a gun and say "Just kill me now" if we had a pop quiz or if I had to do an extra chore that day. I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Since my friend has died, I've become more aware of the emotions surrounding that subject. When someone jokes about suicide, I can't really laugh anymore. I freeze. Something in my heart hurts.
When we make light of a situation, we're lessening its impact. Suicide is making a huge impact in the lives of countless people right now. 30,000 lives are ending every year. Don't make that a joke.
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SUICIDE HOTLINE
1-800-273-8255
If you're a regular reader of this blog, then you know that a friend of mine committed suicide three years ago.
More than 5,000 teens end their lives every year. That breaks my heart. 5,000 teens is like a small university being wiped off the face of the earth. 5,000 is nearly double those who died on 9/11. 5,000 is more than many small towns in Texas. Those were 5,000 kids who had families and friends who were devastated after they learned their loved one was gone. 5,000 is a lot of people, and that's just the teens. 30,000 people of all ages commit suicide each year.
Joking around about suicide, twisting your hand into the shape of a gun and bringing it to your head when you're bored or annoyed, making suicide sound so lighthearted when it should be such a serious thing... this needs to end. Now.
Suicide isn't a joke. It ends a life and it emotionally destroys those who care about the one who died. It's such a difficult thing to heal from. And as one who has once considered suicide as an alternative to the life I lived, let me tell you... feelings of suicide are no joking matter either. They're so, so, so serious. I can't emphasize this enough. Don't let someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts or depression see you make a joke about suicide and make light of the feelings that are consuming his life right now.
You've possibly joked around about killing yourself before. You know, before my friend committed suicide, I would. I'd bring my finger to my head like a gun and say "Just kill me now" if we had a pop quiz or if I had to do an extra chore that day. I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Since my friend has died, I've become more aware of the emotions surrounding that subject. When someone jokes about suicide, I can't really laugh anymore. I freeze. Something in my heart hurts.
When we make light of a situation, we're lessening its impact. Suicide is making a huge impact in the lives of countless people right now. 30,000 lives are ending every year. Don't make that a joke.
-----------
SUICIDE HOTLINE
1-800-273-8255
Friday, February 25, 2011
Prodigal
I thought there'd been a change in me,
But here I've fallen once again.
I want them to see me in You,
But I'm nearly drowning in my sin.
I fell before and I fall now,
And yet You still forgive.
How could You give Your precious life
So one like me could live?
Take my brokenness, Lord.
I've seen what I can do.
I cannot do this on my own,
So I give my all to You.
But here I've fallen once again.
I want them to see me in You,
But I'm nearly drowning in my sin.
I fell before and I fall now,
And yet You still forgive.
How could You give Your precious life
So one like me could live?
Take my brokenness, Lord.
I've seen what I can do.
I cannot do this on my own,
So I give my all to You.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Jack had surgery!
I'm posting this week's Jack update a few days late.
On Thursday, Jack was neutered. I was worried for him, but he turned out just fine! He was trying to run around and play the day
he got neutered. He was very disappointed that he had to lay still all day and the day after that. Poor boy!
When he first got home, Jack was very woozy. He stretched out beside me as I watched TV and could hardly keep himself awake, even though he was trying. He'd lift his little head up to watch me, but it would fall backwards and bounce against the couch cushion.
He was so sedated... I enjoyed having the snuggle-bunny Jack I get to have at nighttime during the afternoon, but I did feel bad for him because he wanted to be awake so badly. He's such a curious little guy.
Later on in the day, Jack grew much more active. In fact, we had to put him in his playpen because he kept trying to jump off the couch to go wrestle with our other two dogs.
No matter how active Jack became throughout the day, his eyes kept that squinty sedated look. I felt so bad for the little guy. He looked so worn out and beaten up.
Being neutered is such a painful ordeal.
I have a question for you, readers. Our two male dogs: Jack and Buddy have begun a crazy marking war over the last few weeks. They've been marking all over our house! We've put the older one, Buddy, in a temporary diaper, but that can't last forever. Does anyone have experience on this type of thing? How can we stop this terrible marking war?
I mean, look at what my poor dog has to wear! It's a travesty.
On Thursday, Jack was neutered. I was worried for him, but he turned out just fine! He was trying to run around and play the day
he got neutered. He was very disappointed that he had to lay still all day and the day after that. Poor boy!When he first got home, Jack was very woozy. He stretched out beside me as I watched TV and could hardly keep himself awake, even though he was trying. He'd lift his little head up to watch me, but it would fall backwards and bounce against the couch cushion.
He was so sedated... I enjoyed having the snuggle-bunny Jack I get to have at nighttime during the afternoon, but I did feel bad for him because he wanted to be awake so badly. He's such a curious little guy.
Later on in the day, Jack grew much more active. In fact, we had to put him in his playpen because he kept trying to jump off the couch to go wrestle with our other two dogs.No matter how active Jack became throughout the day, his eyes kept that squinty sedated look. I felt so bad for the little guy. He looked so worn out and beaten up.
Being neutered is such a painful ordeal.
I have a question for you, readers. Our two male dogs: Jack and Buddy have begun a crazy marking war over the last few weeks. They've been marking all over our house! We've put the older one, Buddy, in a temporary diaper, but that can't last forever. Does anyone have experience on this type of thing? How can we stop this terrible marking war?
I mean, look at what my poor dog has to wear! It's a travesty.
Monday, February 21, 2011
I don't have enough thumbs for this.
To follow up my "reviewing the Billboard's top songs" series, I thought I'd go ahead and review the rest of the songs in the Billboard Top 10.
6. THUMBS DOWN: "Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)" by Enrique Iglesias
I hadn't heard this song before, so I searched for a music video to hear the tune. I was appalled at the video, which shows Enrique wandering through a club filled with naked dancing women. Even if I put aside the content in the video, the song in itself is inappropriate. The song is catchy and easy to dance to, but the lyrics are filled with lust and sex. The d-word appears twice, as well as the a-word.
What concerns me the most, however, are the lust-filled lyrics in "Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)." Check out the first verse. "I know you want me. I made it obvious that I want you too. So put it on me. Let's remove the space between me and you. Now rock your body. ----, I like the way that you move. So give it to me, 'cause I already know what you want to do." The bridge, featuring Ludacris, has more explicit lyrics that I don't feel comfortable sharing on this website. This song encourages meaningless sex and lust. I didn't find anything about it that is encouraging, inspiring, or uplifting whatsoever. I do not encourage you to add it to your playlist.
7. THUMBS DOWN: "F*** You (Forget You)" by Cee Lo Green
Great. Another top 10 song with the f-word in its title alone. I've heard this song several times and it's been performed multiple times on American Idol as well as its milder version "Forget You," but I can't help but cringe when I hear the song because if its original meaning. "Forget You" (let's just stick with the milder title for now) is a breakup song, coming from the perspective of a guy who's been left by his girlfriend for a richer man. However, the song is riddled with swear words.
The chorus- the part of the song you've probably heard at some point- contains a lot of cussing. "I see you driving 'round town with the girl I love and I'm like ---- you. I guess the change in my pocket wasn't enough. I'm like ---- you and ---- her too. I said if I was richer, I'd still be with ya. Ha, now ain't that some ----? And although there's pain in my chest, I still wish you the best with a ---- you..."
The f-word is used at least 16 times within the song. The s-word is used around 9 times if you include the background singers. The n-word is used twice. The a-word is also used twice. The song's content isn't very uplifting either, if you think about it. It's filled with bitterness and anger. So I'm disappointed with "Forget You", 'clean' version or not.
8. THUMBS DOWN: "S&M" by Rihanna
I tried to search for the music video for this song on YouTube but was shown an "18 and Older" warning. Although I'm 18, I decided I didn't want to allow that content into my thoughts. Yikes. Instead of the music video, I searched the lyrics instead and was quite horrified. In fact, I wouldn't feel comfortable sharing the majority of them on this website because of my younger audience. The most appropriate part of the song is the "Na na na na na..." After that, I couldn't find anything. I'm not quoting any parts of "S&M." If it helps you decide whether or not you'll purchase this song, S&M is short for sadomasochism, which is finding pleasure in inflicting and receiving pain during certain kinds of encounters. That's all I'll say.
9. ISH: "The Time (Dirty Bit)" by Black Eyed Peas
I gotta say, this song is catchy and easy to dance to. However, there are some issues I have with the content. There isn't any swearing or explicit sexual references, which is good, but the main purpose of "Dirty Bit" seems to be getting drunk and lusting after drunk ladies. Here are a few of the lyrics. "...I just wanna take some shots. So come on, let's go. Let's lose control. Let's do it all night until we can do it no more... Get hot in here. The temperature has got these ladies getting freakier..."
I personally won't be purchasing this song because I don't approve of the "it's okay to get drunk and go crazy and mess around with a ton of hot girls" vibe I'm getting from the lyrics. However, I'm going to give it an "ish" because compared to the other songs I'm seeing in this 6-10 list, this has been the most appropriate one yet. Sad, isn't it? Here are the lyrics. Check them out and decide for yourself.
10. THUMBS DOWN: "Hold It Against Me" by Britney Spears
"Hold It Against Me" seems to be a song about a girl who dances with a hot guy at a club and decides that she wants to have a one night stand with him. "'Cause you feel like a paradise and I need a vacation tonight. So if I said I want your body now, would you hold it against me?" The song doesn't seem to advocate even a relationship... just random sex to 'feel good' and have a vacation of sorts. "Hold It Against Me" also insinuates that Spears is nearly drunk. "Hey, you might think that I'm crazy, but you know I'm just your type. I might be a little hazy, but you just can't deny..." While this is a very catchy and fun-sounding song, I won't be recommending it. It isn't that explicit, but it isn't that good either.
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Most of the songs in the Top 5 were cleaner than these five. I'm very disappointed in the content of these songs. To be honest, I wouldn't recommend any of them.
6. THUMBS DOWN: "Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)" by Enrique Iglesias
I hadn't heard this song before, so I searched for a music video to hear the tune. I was appalled at the video, which shows Enrique wandering through a club filled with naked dancing women. Even if I put aside the content in the video, the song in itself is inappropriate. The song is catchy and easy to dance to, but the lyrics are filled with lust and sex. The d-word appears twice, as well as the a-word.
What concerns me the most, however, are the lust-filled lyrics in "Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)." Check out the first verse. "I know you want me. I made it obvious that I want you too. So put it on me. Let's remove the space between me and you. Now rock your body. ----, I like the way that you move. So give it to me, 'cause I already know what you want to do." The bridge, featuring Ludacris, has more explicit lyrics that I don't feel comfortable sharing on this website. This song encourages meaningless sex and lust. I didn't find anything about it that is encouraging, inspiring, or uplifting whatsoever. I do not encourage you to add it to your playlist.
7. THUMBS DOWN: "F*** You (Forget You)" by Cee Lo Green
Great. Another top 10 song with the f-word in its title alone. I've heard this song several times and it's been performed multiple times on American Idol as well as its milder version "Forget You," but I can't help but cringe when I hear the song because if its original meaning. "Forget You" (let's just stick with the milder title for now) is a breakup song, coming from the perspective of a guy who's been left by his girlfriend for a richer man. However, the song is riddled with swear words.
The chorus- the part of the song you've probably heard at some point- contains a lot of cussing. "I see you driving 'round town with the girl I love and I'm like ---- you. I guess the change in my pocket wasn't enough. I'm like ---- you and ---- her too. I said if I was richer, I'd still be with ya. Ha, now ain't that some ----? And although there's pain in my chest, I still wish you the best with a ---- you..."
The f-word is used at least 16 times within the song. The s-word is used around 9 times if you include the background singers. The n-word is used twice. The a-word is also used twice. The song's content isn't very uplifting either, if you think about it. It's filled with bitterness and anger. So I'm disappointed with "Forget You", 'clean' version or not.
8. THUMBS DOWN: "S&M" by Rihanna
I tried to search for the music video for this song on YouTube but was shown an "18 and Older" warning. Although I'm 18, I decided I didn't want to allow that content into my thoughts. Yikes. Instead of the music video, I searched the lyrics instead and was quite horrified. In fact, I wouldn't feel comfortable sharing the majority of them on this website because of my younger audience. The most appropriate part of the song is the "Na na na na na..." After that, I couldn't find anything. I'm not quoting any parts of "S&M." If it helps you decide whether or not you'll purchase this song, S&M is short for sadomasochism, which is finding pleasure in inflicting and receiving pain during certain kinds of encounters. That's all I'll say.
9. ISH: "The Time (Dirty Bit)" by Black Eyed Peas
I gotta say, this song is catchy and easy to dance to. However, there are some issues I have with the content. There isn't any swearing or explicit sexual references, which is good, but the main purpose of "Dirty Bit" seems to be getting drunk and lusting after drunk ladies. Here are a few of the lyrics. "...I just wanna take some shots. So come on, let's go. Let's lose control. Let's do it all night until we can do it no more... Get hot in here. The temperature has got these ladies getting freakier..."
I personally won't be purchasing this song because I don't approve of the "it's okay to get drunk and go crazy and mess around with a ton of hot girls" vibe I'm getting from the lyrics. However, I'm going to give it an "ish" because compared to the other songs I'm seeing in this 6-10 list, this has been the most appropriate one yet. Sad, isn't it? Here are the lyrics. Check them out and decide for yourself.
10. THUMBS DOWN: "Hold It Against Me" by Britney Spears
"Hold It Against Me" seems to be a song about a girl who dances with a hot guy at a club and decides that she wants to have a one night stand with him. "'Cause you feel like a paradise and I need a vacation tonight. So if I said I want your body now, would you hold it against me?" The song doesn't seem to advocate even a relationship... just random sex to 'feel good' and have a vacation of sorts. "Hold It Against Me" also insinuates that Spears is nearly drunk. "Hey, you might think that I'm crazy, but you know I'm just your type. I might be a little hazy, but you just can't deny..." While this is a very catchy and fun-sounding song, I won't be recommending it. It isn't that explicit, but it isn't that good either.
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Most of the songs in the Top 5 were cleaner than these five. I'm very disappointed in the content of these songs. To be honest, I wouldn't recommend any of them.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
You Know My Name
You Know My Name
I have fallen many times.
I have fallen many times.
I am broken.
I am small.
And yet You say, "You are mine."I am small.
You know my name.
The universe is so complex.
Stars and sky,
And then there's me.
Fallen when I try my best.
And You still know my name.
I know I do not look like much.
Just a girl.
Just a child.
Yet my heart you heal and touch.
You know my name.
My shame overflows my being.
I've messed up.
I've failed.
And still I feel the peace You bring.
I'm humbled that You know my name.
I'm the apple of Your eye.
Though I'm clay,
Though I'm sin.
I give You me until I die,
Because You know my name.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Not So Perfect After All
Something I'm going to begin is reviewing the top 5 songs on the Billboard charts each week. Some songs that are popular right now are great. They've got great lyrics and are fine for you to purchase. Others are inappropriate, and as believers in Christ, we should probably avoid them. I'll remind you that my opinions about these songs are my own, stemming from my personal faith. If you disagree with me, then don't follow what I have to say. It's as simple as that.
The top 5 songs this week are...
1.) THUMBS DOWN: "Born This Way" by Lady Gaga
"Born This Way" is a gay rights song. When I first read the lyrics, I was surprised and impressed with the content. I've never been a fan of Lady Gaga before and when I saw the title of "Born This Way," I immediately thought, "Oh, great. Another pro-gay song that puts Christians down." But at first, I seemed to be wrong. 'There's nothing wrong with loving who you are,' she said, 'because you're perfect, babe. So hold your head up, girl, and you'll go far. Listen to me when I say.' I'm beautiful in my way, 'cause God makes no mistakes..." Is God actually being mentioned in a Lady Gaga song?
By the second verse, however, my opinion of the song quickly changed. "A different lover is not a sin... No matter gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgendered life. I'm on the right track, baby... Ooh, there ain't no other way. I was born this way." While I believe many homosexual people are sweet and incredibly kind individuals, I do not agree with the meaning of "Born This Way." I believe homosexuality is wrong and I do not support a song that declares it's a good thing... or that God created people to be gay. That contradicts God's Word.
While "Born This Way" is catchy and is hiding under lyrics that seem okay from the surface, Lady Gaga is misguided in her reasoning about God and homosexuality. I do not encourage you to buy this song.
2.) THUMBS UP: "Firework" by Katy Perry
To be honest, I'm not a fan of Katy Perry, especially after I saw her sensual "California Girls" music video. However, "Firework" impressed me. As far as I can see, there are no sexual double meanings behind the lyrics. (Please correct me if I'm wrong here.) The song is merely about being yourself and overcoming what other people think about you. "You don't have to feel like a waste of space. You're original, cannot be replaced. If you only knew what the future holds. After a hurricane comes a rainbow." I couldn't find any controversial or inappropriate lyrics in "Firework." While I don't agree with much of Katy Perry's music, lifestyle, and music videos, this song in itself is surprisingly decent and even encouraging. I don't see anything wrong with you adding it to your playlist.
3.) ISH: "Grenade" by Bruno Mars
This is a break up sort of song where Bruno Mars sings as one who feels rejected by the girl he loves. His lyrics are quite passion-filled. See for yourself "I'd catch a grenade for ya. Throw my hand on a blade for ya. I'd jump in front of a train for ya. You know I'd do anything for ya. I would go through all this pain for ya, take a bullet straight through my brain. Yes, I would die for you, baby, but you won't do the same."
I can see both good and dangerous meanings behind this song. As a spouse, I think it's admirable that Bruno Mars is willing to die for the one he loves. However, if a young boyfriend or girlfriend hears the words "take a bullet straight through my brain... Yes, I would die for you, baby," I'm worried that Bruno Mars's words might encourage suicidal reactions after a harsh breakup. However, despite my caution, I think Bruno Mars's intentions were good and the song is not inappropriate, so my review comes up as this: Decide for yourself whether or not you like the content of this song. I can't find anything directly inappropriate within its lyrics.
4.) THUMBS DOWN: "Black and Yellow" by Wiz Khalifa
Despite the fact that this song is number four on the charts, I've never heard it before in my life until today. And I gotta say, I don't think I've been missing out. "Black and Yellow" is focused on material possessions, lust, drugs, and anger. I found swear words everywhere. Let me show you a "mild" verse. "B******* love me 'cause I'm f******* with their best friends. Not a lesbian, but she a freak though. This ain't for one night, I'm shining all week, ho'." "Black and Yellow" also uses the n-word and talks about women in derogatory ways, using terms like "ho" and the b-word. The f-word is used more than once, and drugs are mentioned freely. No, I can't find anything good in this song. I give it a thumbs down.
5.) THUMBS DOWN: "F******* Perfect" by P!nk
Okay, I can already tell you that I won't be recommending this song, just by its title. What's sad is that this song has potential to have a good meaning. But have you noticed the similarities between this song and "Born This Way"? Saying "you're perfect" seems to be a new trend amongst popular songs right now. P!nk seems to have good intentions with "F****** Perfect"'s lyrics. The chorus goes like this: "Pretty pretty please, don't you ever feel like you're less than f****** perfect. Pretty pretty please, if you ever feel like you're nothing, you're f****** perfect to me."
Aside from the obvious fact that nobody can be "perfect," the song seems to be meant to encourage a friend or boyfriend of some sort and raise their self esteem. However, if someone sang this song to me to help lift up my self worth, I think it would bring me down even more. No, there are too many uses of the f-word for me to ever consider recommending this song.
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What do you think about this new series? Do you agree with what I have to say? Disagree? You're free to share your opinion in the comments below.
The top 5 songs this week are...
1.) THUMBS DOWN: "Born This Way" by Lady Gaga
"Born This Way" is a gay rights song. When I first read the lyrics, I was surprised and impressed with the content. I've never been a fan of Lady Gaga before and when I saw the title of "Born This Way," I immediately thought, "Oh, great. Another pro-gay song that puts Christians down." But at first, I seemed to be wrong. 'There's nothing wrong with loving who you are,' she said, 'because you're perfect, babe. So hold your head up, girl, and you'll go far. Listen to me when I say.' I'm beautiful in my way, 'cause God makes no mistakes..." Is God actually being mentioned in a Lady Gaga song?
By the second verse, however, my opinion of the song quickly changed. "A different lover is not a sin... No matter gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgendered life. I'm on the right track, baby... Ooh, there ain't no other way. I was born this way." While I believe many homosexual people are sweet and incredibly kind individuals, I do not agree with the meaning of "Born This Way." I believe homosexuality is wrong and I do not support a song that declares it's a good thing... or that God created people to be gay. That contradicts God's Word.
While "Born This Way" is catchy and is hiding under lyrics that seem okay from the surface, Lady Gaga is misguided in her reasoning about God and homosexuality. I do not encourage you to buy this song.
2.) THUMBS UP: "Firework" by Katy Perry
To be honest, I'm not a fan of Katy Perry, especially after I saw her sensual "California Girls" music video. However, "Firework" impressed me. As far as I can see, there are no sexual double meanings behind the lyrics. (Please correct me if I'm wrong here.) The song is merely about being yourself and overcoming what other people think about you. "You don't have to feel like a waste of space. You're original, cannot be replaced. If you only knew what the future holds. After a hurricane comes a rainbow." I couldn't find any controversial or inappropriate lyrics in "Firework." While I don't agree with much of Katy Perry's music, lifestyle, and music videos, this song in itself is surprisingly decent and even encouraging. I don't see anything wrong with you adding it to your playlist.
3.) ISH: "Grenade" by Bruno Mars
This is a break up sort of song where Bruno Mars sings as one who feels rejected by the girl he loves. His lyrics are quite passion-filled. See for yourself "I'd catch a grenade for ya. Throw my hand on a blade for ya. I'd jump in front of a train for ya. You know I'd do anything for ya. I would go through all this pain for ya, take a bullet straight through my brain. Yes, I would die for you, baby, but you won't do the same."
I can see both good and dangerous meanings behind this song. As a spouse, I think it's admirable that Bruno Mars is willing to die for the one he loves. However, if a young boyfriend or girlfriend hears the words "take a bullet straight through my brain... Yes, I would die for you, baby," I'm worried that Bruno Mars's words might encourage suicidal reactions after a harsh breakup. However, despite my caution, I think Bruno Mars's intentions were good and the song is not inappropriate, so my review comes up as this: Decide for yourself whether or not you like the content of this song. I can't find anything directly inappropriate within its lyrics.
4.) THUMBS DOWN: "Black and Yellow" by Wiz Khalifa
Despite the fact that this song is number four on the charts, I've never heard it before in my life until today. And I gotta say, I don't think I've been missing out. "Black and Yellow" is focused on material possessions, lust, drugs, and anger. I found swear words everywhere. Let me show you a "mild" verse. "B******* love me 'cause I'm f******* with their best friends. Not a lesbian, but she a freak though. This ain't for one night, I'm shining all week, ho'." "Black and Yellow" also uses the n-word and talks about women in derogatory ways, using terms like "ho" and the b-word. The f-word is used more than once, and drugs are mentioned freely. No, I can't find anything good in this song. I give it a thumbs down.
5.) THUMBS DOWN: "F******* Perfect" by P!nk
Okay, I can already tell you that I won't be recommending this song, just by its title. What's sad is that this song has potential to have a good meaning. But have you noticed the similarities between this song and "Born This Way"? Saying "you're perfect" seems to be a new trend amongst popular songs right now. P!nk seems to have good intentions with "F****** Perfect"'s lyrics. The chorus goes like this: "Pretty pretty please, don't you ever feel like you're less than f****** perfect. Pretty pretty please, if you ever feel like you're nothing, you're f****** perfect to me."
Aside from the obvious fact that nobody can be "perfect," the song seems to be meant to encourage a friend or boyfriend of some sort and raise their self esteem. However, if someone sang this song to me to help lift up my self worth, I think it would bring me down even more. No, there are too many uses of the f-word for me to ever consider recommending this song.
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What do you think about this new series? Do you agree with what I have to say? Disagree? You're free to share your opinion in the comments below.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Life is Precious
The other day, I talked about how precious life was and how we shouldn't ever waste it. Today I'd like to expand on that topic a little more. Your life is valuable. You're precious to God. But there are other precious lives that are vanishing every day, and that's what I'd like to discuss right now.
When I see images of the kids in third world countries who are dying from preventable issues such as hunger and malaria, my heart feels like it's literally splitting in my chest. The children who have died and are dying from starvation and diseases were never even given a chance to survive. They've been restrained within the barriers of poverty. Their deaths were painful and easily preventable. They died without being remembered. They died without the world knowing they ever even existed. It's
like they've been invisible.
It really is. Look at the photograph to your right. Don't turn away because it makes you uncomfortable. I want you to feel uncomfortable. Allow your heart to start pounding in your chest. Let chills rise on your arms. Let your stomach churn and your hands tremble. This child is dying. If you're thinking to yourself, "Oh, that's so sad," but plan to do nothing more than think about this image for the next few days or weeks or even months, then this child is invisible to you.
If you see the World Vision ads that appear on the sides of your screen while you're surfing the internet and all you feel is a twinge of sadness before you move on to something happier and less uncomfortable, then these children have become invisible to you. You're ignoring the deaths of precious children who have a Father in heaven who cherishes them and feels terribly grieved when they die. These kids may not have anyone on earth who cares for them or remembers them, but Jesus Christ died for them too.
A dying child should make you leap from your seat with shock and horror. It should make you shout, "No! His death doesn't have to happen. None of these deaths have to happen. I'm going to stand up and do something." Children are dying. What are you doing about it?
I went to Kenya, Africa a couple of summers ago. I saw many things that changed my perspective on poverty and sacrifice while I was over there, but an instance sticks out in my mind especially today. A friend and I were taking some pictures of kids to send to those who sponsor them through Christian Relief Fund. We would go down the long list of names and ask the kids who would crowd around us, eagerly waiting to help, to find the child we needed to photograph and interview.
At one point, we asked the kids to bring us a little girl. I don't remember her name now. I wish I did. There were many names we read off that day. The kids grew silent for a long moment until a young girl finally spoke up. "She died," she told us in a somber voice. When we questioned her, the girl's response was, "She died from chicken pox two weeks ago."
She died from chicken pox.
In the world today, there are still little children dying from chicken pox.
I remember that moment quite often. Children are dying from preventable issues every single day without a chance to leave their mark on the world, without a chance to change someone's life, without a chance to learn or experience new things or to grow. The lives of
these children are truly a mist, likes James 4 discusses, but their tragic lives could be made longer than they are now. We could be making a difference.
James 1:27 says, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." You've probably read that verse before, but take a moment to read James 2:15, 16, located a few verses down. "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" What good is it? When you see the images of starving children and feel bad or say a quick prayer for them, in all honesty, what good will that do? What good is it? What tangible difference are you making in their lives?
Here's a quote by A.W. Tozer that impacted my perspective on faith and prayer. "...I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work... Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience." Here, A.W. Tozer was talking about praying for revival, but the same concept works with praying for God to end poverty. You may be praying for the starving children, but what are you doing to obey God's law? What are you doing to help the orphans and widows in their distress?
I read somewhere that if everyone in the word who claimed to be a Christian tithed 10% of their earnings to the church, then we would eradicate world poverty and AIDS in less than a year.
What are you doing to help the needy?
Every minute, more than 110 kids die from starvation, equaling about 160,000 a day. Each minute, two kids die from malaria. Every two minutes, a child dies from AIDS. What are you doing to try to prevent these deaths and save the lives of these little children? If you're not fighting for the destitute and needy, then it may be time to reset some priorities.
In the ten minutes it took you to read today's blog article, more than 1,125 kids have died from preventable issues. 1,125 babies who are treasured by the Lord.
Life is precious.
It's time to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves.
When I see images of the kids in third world countries who are dying from preventable issues such as hunger and malaria, my heart feels like it's literally splitting in my chest. The children who have died and are dying from starvation and diseases were never even given a chance to survive. They've been restrained within the barriers of poverty. Their deaths were painful and easily preventable. They died without being remembered. They died without the world knowing they ever even existed. It's
like they've been invisible.It really is. Look at the photograph to your right. Don't turn away because it makes you uncomfortable. I want you to feel uncomfortable. Allow your heart to start pounding in your chest. Let chills rise on your arms. Let your stomach churn and your hands tremble. This child is dying. If you're thinking to yourself, "Oh, that's so sad," but plan to do nothing more than think about this image for the next few days or weeks or even months, then this child is invisible to you.
If you see the World Vision ads that appear on the sides of your screen while you're surfing the internet and all you feel is a twinge of sadness before you move on to something happier and less uncomfortable, then these children have become invisible to you. You're ignoring the deaths of precious children who have a Father in heaven who cherishes them and feels terribly grieved when they die. These kids may not have anyone on earth who cares for them or remembers them, but Jesus Christ died for them too.
A dying child should make you leap from your seat with shock and horror. It should make you shout, "No! His death doesn't have to happen. None of these deaths have to happen. I'm going to stand up and do something." Children are dying. What are you doing about it?
I went to Kenya, Africa a couple of summers ago. I saw many things that changed my perspective on poverty and sacrifice while I was over there, but an instance sticks out in my mind especially today. A friend and I were taking some pictures of kids to send to those who sponsor them through Christian Relief Fund. We would go down the long list of names and ask the kids who would crowd around us, eagerly waiting to help, to find the child we needed to photograph and interview.
At one point, we asked the kids to bring us a little girl. I don't remember her name now. I wish I did. There were many names we read off that day. The kids grew silent for a long moment until a young girl finally spoke up. "She died," she told us in a somber voice. When we questioned her, the girl's response was, "She died from chicken pox two weeks ago."
She died from chicken pox.
In the world today, there are still little children dying from chicken pox.
I remember that moment quite often. Children are dying from preventable issues every single day without a chance to leave their mark on the world, without a chance to change someone's life, without a chance to learn or experience new things or to grow. The lives of
James 1:27 says, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." You've probably read that verse before, but take a moment to read James 2:15, 16, located a few verses down. "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" What good is it? When you see the images of starving children and feel bad or say a quick prayer for them, in all honesty, what good will that do? What good is it? What tangible difference are you making in their lives?
Here's a quote by A.W. Tozer that impacted my perspective on faith and prayer. "...I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work... Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience." Here, A.W. Tozer was talking about praying for revival, but the same concept works with praying for God to end poverty. You may be praying for the starving children, but what are you doing to obey God's law? What are you doing to help the orphans and widows in their distress?
I read somewhere that if everyone in the word who claimed to be a Christian tithed 10% of their earnings to the church, then we would eradicate world poverty and AIDS in less than a year.
What are you doing to help the needy?
Every minute, more than 110 kids die from starvation, equaling about 160,000 a day. Each minute, two kids die from malaria. Every two minutes, a child dies from AIDS. What are you doing to try to prevent these deaths and save the lives of these little children? If you're not fighting for the destitute and needy, then it may be time to reset some priorities.
In the ten minutes it took you to read today's blog article, more than 1,125 kids have died from preventable issues. 1,125 babies who are treasured by the Lord.
Life is precious.
It's time to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
What I See
Something I wrote for my best friend yesterday. I love you, Ali.
What I See
I wish you could see what I see.
The love,
Admiration,
Encouragement,
That others feel around you.
They see Him in you.
I wish you could see what I see.
You're cherished,
Adored,
You're the apple of His eye.
He holds you in His hands.
He's formed you in His plans.
I wish you could see what I see.
Your worth,
Your value,
Your heart.
There are so many things in you I see.
You are important to Him and to me.
I wish you could see what I see.
The love,
Admiration,
Encouragement,
That others feel around you.
They see Him in you.
I wish you could see what I see.
You're cherished,
Adored,
You're the apple of His eye.
He holds you in His hands.
He's formed you in His plans.
I wish you could see what I see.
Your worth,
Your value,
Your heart.
There are so many things in you I see.
You are important to Him and to me.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
What's your mark?
Lately, I've been thinking about how valuable life is. I often hear stories about people who have died in tragic accidents or from diseases. I see their smiling faces in photographs that have merely snapped a glimpse of who they were when they were still alive. Life is precious. I forget that sometimes.
A few months ago, I read about a girl named Shannon Tavarez. At eleven years old, she'd already achieved remarkable success in her life. She was Young Nala in New York's Broadway show of "Lion King." She was known for her big voice, beautiful smile, and determined spirit. Last April, Shannon discovered she had a serious form of cancer called acute myelogenous leukemia and would
require a bone marrow transplant to save her life. Unfortunately, Shannon was part Hispanic and part black, so it was nearly impossible to find a perfect bone marrow match. Multiple celebrities such as Alicia Keys and Rihanna rallied for Shannon, begging people to be tested and donate bone marrow for Shannon, in hopes of saving her life. Even 50 Cent offered to donate his own marrow if he was a match.
Unfortunately, on November 1, 2010, Shannon succumbed to leukemia after a six month battle. Her death was a huge blow for the many people who had rallied for her and tried so hard to save her. How discouraging! Shannon was so young. She had such a promising future. And suddenly, she was gone.
When I first heard about Shannon's death, I was incredibly discouraged. "After all that," I thought to myself, "after so many people stood up and fought with her, she still died. This is one of the most depressing stories I've ever heard." However, Shannon's story doesn't have to be so depressing. Her legacy encouraged people to donate their marrow and be tested... and that donated marrow will save lives. Many celebrities donated their time (and even offered their own marrow!) for Shannon's cause. Shannon taught so many people empathy and positivity and sacrifice and hope.
Shannon's death was very tragic. She was only eleven years old... and her death could have been prevented if the right bone marrow match had come forward. But Shannon stayed positive and strong, and she made the best out of the life she had.
You may be having a difficult time in your life right now. You may be struggling so badly that you feel like you're drowning in a world where nobody understands, where nobody cares. I've been there before. I've contemplated and even attempted suicide. I've been there. Life is a gift, but it can be very hard at times. If you're struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide right now, please remember the value of the life you've been given. God gave you your life for a reason. Deuteronomy 14:2 says that the Lord has chosen you to be His treasured possession. You're His. You're valued. Your life is precious.
Three years ago, a friend of mine committed suicide. In one moment of recklessness, he ended his entire life. He stopped the plans God was working in his life. He abandoned his purpose because he didn't think life was worth living anymore. Gatlin had so much potential. He was smart and kind and talented. But he gave it all up. It's difficult to come to terms with the fact that your loved one didn't find your friendship enough of a reason to stay alive. That's tough.
If you or a loved one or an acquaintance is contemplating suicide, please seek help. Life is precious. Nothing is worth destroying the plans that God has made for you. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" Life is precious.
You may have been walking through life recently, trying to wish the time away. "I'm tired of high school. I just can't wait till I graduate." "Life is so hard right now. If only I could move forward a year or two." "I wish I could make time go faster."
We don't know how much time God has given us. But whatever situation you're in right now, try to savor every moment you've been given. Today will be the only February 16, 2011 you'll ever experience. Don't waste it.
You may have fifty years left of your life. You may die today. James 4:14 says, "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." Make the moments you've got count. Shannon Tavarez made a legacy with the little time she had. She changed lives with her determination and her joy. She helped to save lives by asking people to donate their bone marrow. She gave people hope. Shannon's life was short, like a mist, but she made a mark on the world with the time she had.
Make every moment worth living. Your life is so valuable. Don't let it go to waste.
How will you leave your mark?
I got the pictures used in today's entry here and here.
A few months ago, I read about a girl named Shannon Tavarez. At eleven years old, she'd already achieved remarkable success in her life. She was Young Nala in New York's Broadway show of "Lion King." She was known for her big voice, beautiful smile, and determined spirit. Last April, Shannon discovered she had a serious form of cancer called acute myelogenous leukemia and would
require a bone marrow transplant to save her life. Unfortunately, Shannon was part Hispanic and part black, so it was nearly impossible to find a perfect bone marrow match. Multiple celebrities such as Alicia Keys and Rihanna rallied for Shannon, begging people to be tested and donate bone marrow for Shannon, in hopes of saving her life. Even 50 Cent offered to donate his own marrow if he was a match.Unfortunately, on November 1, 2010, Shannon succumbed to leukemia after a six month battle. Her death was a huge blow for the many people who had rallied for her and tried so hard to save her. How discouraging! Shannon was so young. She had such a promising future. And suddenly, she was gone.
When I first heard about Shannon's death, I was incredibly discouraged. "After all that," I thought to myself, "after so many people stood up and fought with her, she still died. This is one of the most depressing stories I've ever heard." However, Shannon's story doesn't have to be so depressing. Her legacy encouraged people to donate their marrow and be tested... and that donated marrow will save lives. Many celebrities donated their time (and even offered their own marrow!) for Shannon's cause. Shannon taught so many people empathy and positivity and sacrifice and hope.
Shannon's death was very tragic. She was only eleven years old... and her death could have been prevented if the right bone marrow match had come forward. But Shannon stayed positive and strong, and she made the best out of the life she had.
You may be having a difficult time in your life right now. You may be struggling so badly that you feel like you're drowning in a world where nobody understands, where nobody cares. I've been there before. I've contemplated and even attempted suicide. I've been there. Life is a gift, but it can be very hard at times. If you're struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide right now, please remember the value of the life you've been given. God gave you your life for a reason. Deuteronomy 14:2 says that the Lord has chosen you to be His treasured possession. You're His. You're valued. Your life is precious.
Three years ago, a friend of mine committed suicide. In one moment of recklessness, he ended his entire life. He stopped the plans God was working in his life. He abandoned his purpose because he didn't think life was worth living anymore. Gatlin had so much potential. He was smart and kind and talented. But he gave it all up. It's difficult to come to terms with the fact that your loved one didn't find your friendship enough of a reason to stay alive. That's tough.
If you or a loved one or an acquaintance is contemplating suicide, please seek help. Life is precious. Nothing is worth destroying the plans that God has made for you. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you
and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" Life is precious.You may have been walking through life recently, trying to wish the time away. "I'm tired of high school. I just can't wait till I graduate." "Life is so hard right now. If only I could move forward a year or two." "I wish I could make time go faster."
We don't know how much time God has given us. But whatever situation you're in right now, try to savor every moment you've been given. Today will be the only February 16, 2011 you'll ever experience. Don't waste it.
You may have fifty years left of your life. You may die today. James 4:14 says, "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." Make the moments you've got count. Shannon Tavarez made a legacy with the little time she had. She changed lives with her determination and her joy. She helped to save lives by asking people to donate their bone marrow. She gave people hope. Shannon's life was short, like a mist, but she made a mark on the world with the time she had.
Make every moment worth living. Your life is so valuable. Don't let it go to waste.
How will you leave your mark?
I got the pictures used in today's entry here and here.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
What to Bring in Your Purse for Prom
This will be the last article full of tips of what to wear and bring to prom. Today's tips will be what to keep in your purse when you go to prom. For obvious reasons, you don't want to drag around a huge bag full of stuff, but you don't want to be desperately asking around for something you forgot and now need either. I thought I'd advise you to bring a few necessary items in your clutch.
Cellphone
What if something happens while you're at prom and you need to head home early? What if the dance lasts longer than expected and you need to call home to check in with your parents? To stay safe, keep your charged phone with you in your purse. I know that this is a cliche, but it truly is better to be safe than sorry.
Bobby Pins
You may have a hair problem. In fact, you probably will. Chances are, you'll have to step outside in the wind, be stuck in a stuffy room for a few hours, and be moving around and dancing. Even if you're wearing curls without any bobby pins, bring a few just in case. You may have to tuck away a few flattening curls. If you're wearing an elaborate updo or braid, this should be a no-brainer. Bring plenty of bobby pins.
Lipstick/Lip Gloss
You'll probably eat while at prom. You will need to refresh your lipstick or gloss while you're there at some point, no matter what you're doing. Lipstick isn't that big, so it should be easy to stick inside your clutch. You will use it.
Any ID
Are you at least sixteen? Bring your driver's license. Otherwise, bring a student ID. Just in case you get pulled over or the school won't allow you in with identification of some sort... or (and I know I'm sounding awful right now) if something happens and you get separated from your friends, you'll have a way to be identified.
Cash
Bring twenty bucks. It may come in handy at some point.
Eyeshadow or Mascara or Blush
This is optional, but if you are worried about your makeup fading, you may want to stick a little something in your purse to help you out later on.
Feminine Products
I won't go into detail here. Just... what if?
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Did I leave anything out?
What if something happens while you're at prom and you need to head home early? What if the dance lasts longer than expected and you need to call home to check in with your parents? To stay safe, keep your charged phone with you in your purse. I know that this is a cliche, but it truly is better to be safe than sorry.
Bobby Pins
You may have a hair problem. In fact, you probably will. Chances are, you'll have to step outside in the wind, be stuck in a stuffy room for a few hours, and be moving around and dancing. Even if you're wearing curls without any bobby pins, bring a few just in case. You may have to tuck away a few flattening curls. If you're wearing an elaborate updo or braid, this should be a no-brainer. Bring plenty of bobby pins.
Lipstick/Lip Gloss
You'll probably eat while at prom. You will need to refresh your lipstick or gloss while you're there at some point, no matter what you're doing. Lipstick isn't that big, so it should be easy to stick inside your clutch. You will use it.
Any ID
Are you at least sixteen? Bring your driver's license. Otherwise, bring a student ID. Just in case you get pulled over or the school won't allow you in with identification of some sort... or (and I know I'm sounding awful right now) if something happens and you get separated from your friends, you'll have a way to be identified.
Cash
Bring twenty bucks. It may come in handy at some point.
Eyeshadow or Mascara or Blush
This is optional, but if you are worried about your makeup fading, you may want to stick a little something in your purse to help you out later on.
Feminine Products
I won't go into detail here. Just... what if?
----------
Did I leave anything out?
Monday, February 14, 2011
All the Single Ladies
For the eighteenth year in a row, I'm single for Valentine's Day. I honestly enjoy being single, oven on the holiday that many call "Single Awareness Day." I like not being tied down in a relationship for the last few months of my senior year. I haven't always felt that way, but I do this time around. And I'll admit, it isn't that difficult for me to enjoy being single because I'm not much of a hopeless romantic either.
Some of you single ladies who read my blog (sorry, everybody else... but today's post is for the single ladies) may be feeling sad and lonely today. Valentine's Day may cause your heart to twinge with unhappiness. So today I thought I'd give you single ladies -like myself- a few options for how to spend Valentine's Day without tears or loneliness.
Arrange a Valentine exchange with friends.
You probably have some fellow single friends. If you do, exchange Valentines! Get each other cards and chocolates and little teddy bears. Just because you don't have a boyfriend or a husband, it doesn't mean you can't enjoy Valentines. Celebrate the holiday with your friends and enjoy it.
Watch a chick flick with friends.
If you feel like imagining romance, even if you don't currently have some in your life, get a group of single friends and watch a sappy romance movie like The Notebook or A Walk to Remember. Be sure to bring ice cream, tissues, and a teddy bear. Make Valentine's Day a night of silly crying and hugging and thinking about what might someday come... so long as you're surrounded by giggling friends who are doing the exact same thing.
Spend time with your dad.
Ask your dad to spend a few hours of Valentine's Day with you. He can be your Valentine this year. Go out to lunch or dinner. He might even bring you flowers. If you have a father figure in your life, then he can be "the one" this year. Take this opportunity to bond with your dad.
Celebrate being single and buy yourself something nice.
Are you single and happy like I am? Then reward yourself and go on a little shopping spree. Purchase an outfit that makes you feel confident and beautiful, just the way you are. Buy yourself something chocolate. Reward yourself a little today and remember that someday, you may be in a relationship, but for now, you're happy riding solo.
Read Crazy Love by Francis Chan.
If you're feeling lonely this Valentine's Day, I encourage you to go purchase Crazy Love and read a few chapters before you hit the hay tonight. It's a book that will help you grow in a crazy love relationship with Jesus Christ. He loves you so much that He died for you, so instead of feeling lonely and depressed, spend some time with Him. Let Jesus be the love of your life.
If you don't have a Valentine this year and you're feeling unhappy and unsettled about it, remember that Valentine's Day is only a day. It will come and go, just like any other day of the year. Savor the time you can spend with God instead of a guy. You can still enjoy your day, even if you're not in a relationship.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Arrange a Valentine exchange with friends.
You probably have some fellow single friends. If you do, exchange Valentines! Get each other cards and chocolates and little teddy bears. Just because you don't have a boyfriend or a husband, it doesn't mean you can't enjoy Valentines. Celebrate the holiday with your friends and enjoy it.
Watch a chick flick with friends.
If you feel like imagining romance, even if you don't currently have some in your life, get a group of single friends and watch a sappy romance movie like The Notebook or A Walk to Remember. Be sure to bring ice cream, tissues, and a teddy bear. Make Valentine's Day a night of silly crying and hugging and thinking about what might someday come... so long as you're surrounded by giggling friends who are doing the exact same thing.
Spend time with your dad.
Ask your dad to spend a few hours of Valentine's Day with you. He can be your Valentine this year. Go out to lunch or dinner. He might even bring you flowers. If you have a father figure in your life, then he can be "the one" this year. Take this opportunity to bond with your dad.
Celebrate being single and buy yourself something nice.
Are you single and happy like I am? Then reward yourself and go on a little shopping spree. Purchase an outfit that makes you feel confident and beautiful, just the way you are. Buy yourself something chocolate. Reward yourself a little today and remember that someday, you may be in a relationship, but for now, you're happy riding solo.
Read Crazy Love by Francis Chan.
If you're feeling lonely this Valentine's Day, I encourage you to go purchase Crazy Love and read a few chapters before you hit the hay tonight. It's a book that will help you grow in a crazy love relationship with Jesus Christ. He loves you so much that He died for you, so instead of feeling lonely and depressed, spend some time with Him. Let Jesus be the love of your life.
If you don't have a Valentine this year and you're feeling unhappy and unsettled about it, remember that Valentine's Day is only a day. It will come and go, just like any other day of the year. Savor the time you can spend with God instead of a guy. You can still enjoy your day, even if you're not in a relationship.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Big Yawns, Heavy Sleeps, and Blue Sweaters
Here are this week's pictures of Jack. :)
Okay, let's hear a collective, "Awwwwwwww!"
It was one of those days where it was absolutely freezing outside, so of course we had to put Jack in his adorable blue sweater. And you know, when you've been playing outside in the snow, it's perfectly naturally to fall fast asleep soon after.
And sleep hard.
And adorably.
I have the cutest puppy in the world.
Of course, after a long, relaxing nap, Jack has to wake up eventually. And he has to look adorable while he's waking up.
Actually, my mom and I desperately wanted to get a picture of Jack yawning because it makes him look so cute and sleepy. When you rub the side of Jack's face with your finger, it makes him yawn, so Mom would rub his cheek and say, "Hurry, take the picture!"
We finally got one!
Here is my darling Jack... and the family cat Oreo who lives outside.
Funny, because Oreo has never in his life been allowed to come inside. When it snows, he can sleep in the garage or the barn to have shelter, but he's never been allowed into the actual house. However, he always seems to think that if he stands outside the door with the dogs, we'll let him in too. Oh, Oreo.
I love Jack's little blue sweater.
Here is a glimpse of how small Jack's paw is compared to my thumb. He's so little. We think he's nearly full grown at about three and a half pounds. He may still gain a pound or two, but he doesn't seem to be getting much bigger. His growth seems to have come to a halt.
And finally, I'd like to show you a picture of Jack trying out the snow. He wasn't sure what to think of that cold white nonsense at first... but then he went insane and played in it like crazy! He ran around and around and around our property. You can see Jack playing in the snow here on my YouTube vlog.
Okay, let's hear a collective, "Awwwwwwww!"It was one of those days where it was absolutely freezing outside, so of course we had to put Jack in his adorable blue sweater. And you know, when you've been playing outside in the snow, it's perfectly naturally to fall fast asleep soon after.
And sleep hard.
And adorably.
I have the cutest puppy in the world.
Of course, after a long, relaxing nap, Jack has to wake up eventually. And he has to look adorable while he's waking up.Actually, my mom and I desperately wanted to get a picture of Jack yawning because it makes him look so cute and sleepy. When you rub the side of Jack's face with your finger, it makes him yawn, so Mom would rub his cheek and say, "Hurry, take the picture!"
We finally got one!
Here is my darling Jack... and the family cat Oreo who lives outside.Funny, because Oreo has never in his life been allowed to come inside. When it snows, he can sleep in the garage or the barn to have shelter, but he's never been allowed into the actual house. However, he always seems to think that if he stands outside the door with the dogs, we'll let him in too. Oh, Oreo.
I love Jack's little blue sweater.
Here is a glimpse of how small Jack's paw is compared to my thumb. He's so little. We think he's nearly full grown at about three and a half pounds. He may still gain a pound or two, but he doesn't seem to be getting much bigger. His growth seems to have come to a halt.And finally, I'd like to show you a picture of Jack trying out the snow. He wasn't sure what to think of that cold white nonsense at first... but then he went insane and played in it like crazy! He ran around and around and around our property. You can see Jack playing in the snow here on my YouTube vlog.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Why I write about my faith.
Some people have asked me why I choose to write so much about my faith. Today I thought I'd share my point of view about why I write what I write.
I have a God-given talent.
I don't mean this in a boastful way whatsoever. I credit everything to God. However, I'm not afraid to say that I have been given a gift in writing. I'm fairly good at writing and I enjoy it. It's what I love. The passion for writing that I have is very clearly from God. I've made up little stories and poems since before I could actually write with a pencil. I've always loved it, and I know God has given me this love for a reason. How could I use it in a way that isn't for His glory? I try to filter everything I write through Matthew 5:14, which you can read at the top of this screen. I write as a city on a hill. People know I'm a Christian and I want what I create to glorify God and be a light for Him.
My faith is my identity.
Everything I know and believe and ponder is wrapped around the core of my existence: my faith. Without Christ, I don't even know what I would write about. I write about my passions. My greatest passion is for the One who gave me life. My faith is a huge part of my identity. It's who I am.
I try to be a shining light.
Obviously, there are many people of other faiths on the internet. Not everyone who reads my blog is a Christian. While I don't want to force my faith on anyone, I do believe my words can be a shining light for Christ. I also hope the things I write will help to form a more positive opinion about Christians and Jesus than those that many people have.
Writing about my faith gives me joy.
I love to write about my faith. I honestly do. I have a passion and a love for Jesus Christ. Shouldn't I write about what gives me joy? My messages may not always be about my faith directly, but I do try to filter everything I write through Matthew 5:14, as a city on a hill.
I love writing. It's a gift God has given me, and I'm so grateful for that. I still need to improve... a lot, I know, but that doesn't take away the passion I have for writing, whether or not I'm good. Without writing, I don't know who I'd be or what I'd do.
Do you see? Maybe you do, maybe you don't. I write what I love and there is nothing I love more than my Savior. You might think I'm weird, but that's okay. I'll continue to write about my faith. You don't have to read my words if you don't want to. Could I be more popular if I wrote about broader topics? Perhaps, but I wouldn't have the same joy in writing as I do now. I write what I love. Why would I want to change that?
I have a God-given talent.
I don't mean this in a boastful way whatsoever. I credit everything to God. However, I'm not afraid to say that I have been given a gift in writing. I'm fairly good at writing and I enjoy it. It's what I love. The passion for writing that I have is very clearly from God. I've made up little stories and poems since before I could actually write with a pencil. I've always loved it, and I know God has given me this love for a reason. How could I use it in a way that isn't for His glory? I try to filter everything I write through Matthew 5:14, which you can read at the top of this screen. I write as a city on a hill. People know I'm a Christian and I want what I create to glorify God and be a light for Him.
Everything I know and believe and ponder is wrapped around the core of my existence: my faith. Without Christ, I don't even know what I would write about. I write about my passions. My greatest passion is for the One who gave me life. My faith is a huge part of my identity. It's who I am.
I try to be a shining light.
Obviously, there are many people of other faiths on the internet. Not everyone who reads my blog is a Christian. While I don't want to force my faith on anyone, I do believe my words can be a shining light for Christ. I also hope the things I write will help to form a more positive opinion about Christians and Jesus than those that many people have.
Writing about my faith gives me joy.
I love to write about my faith. I honestly do. I have a passion and a love for Jesus Christ. Shouldn't I write about what gives me joy? My messages may not always be about my faith directly, but I do try to filter everything I write through Matthew 5:14, as a city on a hill.
I love writing. It's a gift God has given me, and I'm so grateful for that. I still need to improve... a lot, I know, but that doesn't take away the passion I have for writing, whether or not I'm good. Without writing, I don't know who I'd be or what I'd do.
Do you see? Maybe you do, maybe you don't. I write what I love and there is nothing I love more than my Savior. You might think I'm weird, but that's okay. I'll continue to write about my faith. You don't have to read my words if you don't want to. Could I be more popular if I wrote about broader topics? Perhaps, but I wouldn't have the same joy in writing as I do now. I write what I love. Why would I want to change that?
Sunday, February 6, 2011
How small is God?
I have a confession to make. Sometimes I go quite a while without thinking about God.
I try to start out my mornings thinking about Him, saying a few prayers, listening to some praise music, and smiling at the thought of the God who made me... but I don't always. Sometimes I'm too tired and hardly think about anything as I get ready for my day. I try to think about God during my car rides and my days at school, but I often forget and become caught up in conversations with friends, stress about upcoming assignments, and worries about the future. There are so many things going on in my life that I often forget to think about or pray to God.
You might feel the same way.
There are so many important things in my life right now. I'm just too busy. I often don't have time to have a real quiet time with God. My schedule is really hectic right now.
Is God so small to us that we can so easily put our silly schedules above spending time with Him?
We have a Creator, a Father, a Savior. We were made to worship Him and yet we forget our purpose in the pursuit of drama-filled friendships and struggles and jobs and grades. Nothing is bigger than God. Nothing is worth putting above God.
There have been times when I've gone to youth group and heard the speech about how if we love our cars or iPods or Facebooks more than anything else, then they may have become an idol in our lives. Perhaps some teens need to hear that speech, but I often would think, "Nah, I could easily give up those things for God. They're only material possessions. They don't really matter."
But have you ever stopped to think that your schedule might have become an idol in your life? Think about it. If you're too busy to stop and think about God, if there is too much going on in your life for you to spend time with God, if you think about yourself and your own problems more than you worship God, then there is a huge problem in your life. You're placing your wants and schedule and priorities above the One who created you and gave His life for you. You're making your priorities and thus yourself an idol.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says to pray continually. Another translation of the same verse says for us to pray without ceasing. We were made to think about the Lord constantly. Our purpose is to glorify Him, not to focus on our own schedules.
Putting God above our schedules is much easier said than done. Life is a big thing and when it gets in the way, it's tough to push it down and say, "No, it's God time right now." Placing God at the top of your priority list is a difficult habit to create, but it's time to start trying.
Remember to have some sort of a quiet time with God every single day. Take a slice out of your schedule to spend time with your Father and worship Him. Talk to Him. Remember Him. Jesus Christ suffered and died for you. The least you can do is spend some time with Him.
I wonder if it makes God sad when He is so frequently shoved into a ten or fifteen minute slot out of a day that lasts twenty-four hours. "Okay, God. I've given you a fifteen minute quiet time today. Are You happy now? Isn't that good enough?" God is not small. He is not insignificant. He is life-consuming. He should be the center of our existence.
Memorize 1 Thessalonians 5:17. It isn't that difficult. It's two or three words long, depending on what translation you use. Memorize that verse and use it. Hide it in your heart. Spend some alone time with God each day, yes, but as you move through your busy schedule, talk to God. Think about Him. Let Him fill your thoughts and transform the way you live your life. When you're consumed with the Lord, your words and actions and heart will change. You'll glorify God with the way you live, and that's how it's meant to be.
God is not small. Don't make Him small in your life.
I try to start out my mornings thinking about Him, saying a few prayers, listening to some praise music, and smiling at the thought of the God who made me... but I don't always. Sometimes I'm too tired and hardly think about anything as I get ready for my day. I try to think about God during my car rides and my days at school, but I often forget and become caught up in conversations with friends, stress about upcoming assignments, and worries about the future. There are so many things going on in my life that I often forget to think about or pray to God.
You might feel the same way.
There are so many important things in my life right now. I'm just too busy. I often don't have time to have a real quiet time with God. My schedule is really hectic right now.
Is God so small to us that we can so easily put our silly schedules above spending time with Him?
We have a Creator, a Father, a Savior. We were made to worship Him and yet we forget our purpose in the pursuit of drama-filled friendships and struggles and jobs and grades. Nothing is bigger than God. Nothing is worth putting above God.
There have been times when I've gone to youth group and heard the speech about how if we love our cars or iPods or Facebooks more than anything else, then they may have become an idol in our lives. Perhaps some teens need to hear that speech, but I often would think, "Nah, I could easily give up those things for God. They're only material possessions. They don't really matter."
But have you ever stopped to think that your schedule might have become an idol in your life? Think about it. If you're too busy to stop and think about God, if there is too much going on in your life for you to spend time with God, if you think about yourself and your own problems more than you worship God, then there is a huge problem in your life. You're placing your wants and schedule and priorities above the One who created you and gave His life for you. You're making your priorities and thus yourself an idol.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 says to pray continually. Another translation of the same verse says for us to pray without ceasing. We were made to think about the Lord constantly. Our purpose is to glorify Him, not to focus on our own schedules.
Putting God above our schedules is much easier said than done. Life is a big thing and when it gets in the way, it's tough to push it down and say, "No, it's God time right now." Placing God at the top of your priority list is a difficult habit to create, but it's time to start trying.
Remember to have some sort of a quiet time with God every single day. Take a slice out of your schedule to spend time with your Father and worship Him. Talk to Him. Remember Him. Jesus Christ suffered and died for you. The least you can do is spend some time with Him.
I wonder if it makes God sad when He is so frequently shoved into a ten or fifteen minute slot out of a day that lasts twenty-four hours. "Okay, God. I've given you a fifteen minute quiet time today. Are You happy now? Isn't that good enough?" God is not small. He is not insignificant. He is life-consuming. He should be the center of our existence.
Memorize 1 Thessalonians 5:17. It isn't that difficult. It's two or three words long, depending on what translation you use. Memorize that verse and use it. Hide it in your heart. Spend some alone time with God each day, yes, but as you move through your busy schedule, talk to God. Think about Him. Let Him fill your thoughts and transform the way you live your life. When you're consumed with the Lord, your words and actions and heart will change. You'll glorify God with the way you live, and that's how it's meant to be.
God is not small. Don't make Him small in your life.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Reviewing: Tandem
Summary-
(From the back of the book)
Six months ago, brutal murders shook the small Ozark town- murders that stopped after a house fire reportedly claimed the killer's life. Lauryn McBride's family auction house has taken responsibility for the estate sale of one of the victims- the
enigmatic Markus Chisom. Submerging herself in Chisom's beautiful but strange world, Lauryn welcomes the reprieve from watching Alzheimer's steal her father from her, piece by piece. She soon realizes that centuries-old secrets tie Abbey Hills to the Chisom estate and a mysterious evil will do anything to make sure those secrets stay hidden. Even the man who grew up loving her may not be able to protect Lauryn from the danger.
When Amede Dastillion receives an unexpected package from Abbey Hills, she hopes it might be the key in tracking down her beloved sister, long estranged from her family. Visiting Abbey Hills seems the logical next step in her search, but Amede is unusually affected by the town, and when mutilated carcasses begin turning up again in the small community, the local law enforcement isn't sure if they are confronting a familiar evil or a new terror.
Two women brought together by questions that seem to have no answers. Can they overcome the loss and darkness threatening to devour them- or will their own demons condemn them to an emotional wasteland?
What I Liked-
Bateman painted a friendly, likable main character in Lauryn. It was easy to relate to her personality and easy to become immersed into her struggles she faced with her father who was suffering from Alzheimers.
I liked the title of this book, Tandem. It fits the story well and was actually what first drew me to this novel.
What I Didn't Like-
Unfortunately, I wasn't a big fan of this book, but I'm not a big fan of most paranormal and vampire stories in general. I prefer realistic general fiction, mystery, and thrillers.
I had a big issue with this book for the reason that I picked it from the Blogging for Books program, but nothing about the bookmade me believe that it was about vampires, which are a huge focus in the story. I was given a thumbnail view of the cover, like you can see to your left, and I was given the description of the book, which you can read above. Do you see anything about vampires? No. It seemed like a murder mystery. If I had known that Tandem was about vampires, I would have NEVER chosen to buy it because those books don't interest me whatsoever. I feel like whoever wrote Tandem's blurb was a little deceptive about the book's content.
But onto the actual review...
I felt like Amede and her story seemed very cliche, like what today's culture expects a vampire story to contain. Hundreds of years old, a creepy name (Amede Dastillion), beginning the story by rocking in an old rocking chair and reading aging love letters. To me, Amede's side of the story seemed so fake and one-dimensional. I never really felt a connection to her character, especially when she took a mortal servant everywhere with her. No, vampires aren't real, and of course the story is entirely fictional, but it shouldn't have such a forced feel to it. Even a paranormal story should have a natural flow, which I couldn't find in Tandem.
Too many stories seemed to go on at once. Amede and her vampire antics, Lauryn and her father and her life, the journalist, and the nameless girl who was tormented for half the book. In italics at the beginning of each chapter is a memory of Lauryn's, which adds yet another story to the confusing mix. The reader was thrust jerkily from one scene to the next, which made the story flow seem awkward and confusing rather than suspenseful and intense.
There was very little Christian content in what was advertised as a Christian book, which disappointed me as well.
Finally, I have to share a small pet peeve of mine. Names. It seems that the author couldn't bring herself to use normal names in her story. Charley, Lauryn, Amede, Corky... In a way, I can understand odd names for old vampire characters, but I can't quite grasp the purpose behind the "misspelling" of some of the names of average human characters. Writers are usually encouraged to keep names simple and easy to read as to not detract from the story. Readers should be able to focus on the plot (or the many, many plots in this book's case) without being distracted each time they read a character's name.
I Recommend This For-
I would say Tandem is PG-13 because of mild violence and mature content such as blood drinking. Vampire fiction readers might enjoy Tandem, even if I did not.
----------
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
(From the back of the book)
Six months ago, brutal murders shook the small Ozark town- murders that stopped after a house fire reportedly claimed the killer's life. Lauryn McBride's family auction house has taken responsibility for the estate sale of one of the victims- the
When Amede Dastillion receives an unexpected package from Abbey Hills, she hopes it might be the key in tracking down her beloved sister, long estranged from her family. Visiting Abbey Hills seems the logical next step in her search, but Amede is unusually affected by the town, and when mutilated carcasses begin turning up again in the small community, the local law enforcement isn't sure if they are confronting a familiar evil or a new terror.
Two women brought together by questions that seem to have no answers. Can they overcome the loss and darkness threatening to devour them- or will their own demons condemn them to an emotional wasteland?
What I Liked-
Bateman painted a friendly, likable main character in Lauryn. It was easy to relate to her personality and easy to become immersed into her struggles she faced with her father who was suffering from Alzheimers.
I liked the title of this book, Tandem. It fits the story well and was actually what first drew me to this novel.
What I Didn't Like-
Unfortunately, I wasn't a big fan of this book, but I'm not a big fan of most paranormal and vampire stories in general. I prefer realistic general fiction, mystery, and thrillers.
I had a big issue with this book for the reason that I picked it from the Blogging for Books program, but nothing about the book
But onto the actual review...
I felt like Amede and her story seemed very cliche, like what today's culture expects a vampire story to contain. Hundreds of years old, a creepy name (Amede Dastillion), beginning the story by rocking in an old rocking chair and reading aging love letters. To me, Amede's side of the story seemed so fake and one-dimensional. I never really felt a connection to her character, especially when she took a mortal servant everywhere with her. No, vampires aren't real, and of course the story is entirely fictional, but it shouldn't have such a forced feel to it. Even a paranormal story should have a natural flow, which I couldn't find in Tandem.
Too many stories seemed to go on at once. Amede and her vampire antics, Lauryn and her father and her life, the journalist, and the nameless girl who was tormented for half the book. In italics at the beginning of each chapter is a memory of Lauryn's, which adds yet another story to the confusing mix. The reader was thrust jerkily from one scene to the next, which made the story flow seem awkward and confusing rather than suspenseful and intense.
There was very little Christian content in what was advertised as a Christian book, which disappointed me as well.
Finally, I have to share a small pet peeve of mine. Names. It seems that the author couldn't bring herself to use normal names in her story. Charley, Lauryn, Amede, Corky... In a way, I can understand odd names for old vampire characters, but I can't quite grasp the purpose behind the "misspelling" of some of the names of average human characters. Writers are usually encouraged to keep names simple and easy to read as to not detract from the story. Readers should be able to focus on the plot (or the many, many plots in this book's case) without being distracted each time they read a character's name.
I Recommend This For-
I would say Tandem is PG-13 because of mild violence and mature content such as blood drinking. Vampire fiction readers might enjoy Tandem, even if I did not.
----------
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
Wet Puppy Noses
I have an idea. Please let me know if you like it. I'm considering setting aside every Saturday to share pictures of my sweet Yorkie puppy Jack. He's always getting into crazy adventures and I often keep my camera around when he's being cute or silly. He's gotten a lot of positive feedback from you guys... he is a lady's man, after all. Here are some pictures from this last week. Let me know if you like the weekly idea.
Here's me trying to get Jack to pose for a picture. He hates sitting still. His favorite blue squeaky ball was sitting only a few feet away, just beckoning for someone to come play with it. Probably what he was looking at here.
I love Jack's little paws and his shiny wet nose. Wet puppy noses are the cutest.
He'll be six months old next Wednesday.
Jack may not be cuddly during playtime, but when he starts to get tired, all he wants to do is snuggle right in my lap. He loves girls. ;)
This is Jack with his favorite toy. It's a blue ball around the size of an egg. It has a squeaker inside that's nearly broken from teeth punctures and a face decorates one side.
Jack loves this toy. I don't mean he likes it sometimes. It could be 4am and Jack would still be willing to play with this ball. It's his favorite thing on earth.
We actually got him three of these balls. He has orange, red, and blue, but the blue ball is his favorite... probably because the squeaker works the best.
I love how his toy matches his favorite little sweater. He's such a handsome fella.
And finally, here's Jack during a short road trip we took. We were visiting a college, so I put Jack in his A&M jersey... it's best to show our loyalty wherever we go. Jack's an Aggie, you know.
I love how you can see the tip of Jack's pink tongue. He sticks out his tongue quite often. I think he knows it makes him look cuter.
I love him.
Here's me trying to get Jack to pose for a picture. He hates sitting still. His favorite blue squeaky ball was sitting only a few feet away, just beckoning for someone to come play with it. Probably what he was looking at here.I love Jack's little paws and his shiny wet nose. Wet puppy noses are the cutest.
He'll be six months old next Wednesday.
Jack may not be cuddly during playtime, but when he starts to get tired, all he wants to do is snuggle right in my lap. He loves girls. ;)
This is Jack with his favorite toy. It's a blue ball around the size of an egg. It has a squeaker inside that's nearly broken from teeth punctures and a face decorates one side.
Jack loves this toy. I don't mean he likes it sometimes. It could be 4am and Jack would still be willing to play with this ball. It's his favorite thing on earth.
We actually got him three of these balls. He has orange, red, and blue, but the blue ball is his favorite... probably because the squeaker works the best.
I love how his toy matches his favorite little sweater. He's such a handsome fella.
And finally, here's Jack during a short road trip we took. We were visiting a college, so I put Jack in his A&M jersey... it's best to show our loyalty wherever we go. Jack's an Aggie, you know.I love how you can see the tip of Jack's pink tongue. He sticks out his tongue quite often. I think he knows it makes him look cuter.
I love him.
Friday, February 4, 2011
We have the same Father.
Church isn't always a happy place.
As Christians, we should strive to treat each other with love and respect, but I often overhear words of hatred and anger exchanged between believers.
"Christians shouldn't listen to instruments during worship."
"Christians have to worship on Saturdays, not Sundays."
"Christian girls who wear pants are immodest."
And the arguments go on and on and on. Some arguments are big. Some are small. Many are hateful and filled with bitterness.
Why do you think there are so many branches and denominations within the church? Everybody has differing beliefs, and that's okay. Is there a definite right or wrong? Yes. Do most of these debates truly matter in the grand scheme of things? No, not really.
Despite our differences, we should accept one another with love, whether or not we agree with every point in each other's doctrine. Look at Colossians 3:13-15. "Bear with each other... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace..."
It makes me sad when I see so many people fighting against each other when we should be of one body. Why should we squabble like we do? Why should we burn each other with mean words and hateful attitudes? Why shun our brothers and sisters in Christ? Why can't we love each other, even when we disagree?
The other night, I was reading Galatians 4-6. Its words impacted my heart and made me ache for peace and unity. Galatians 5:13-15 says, "...Serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other."
I hear so many stories about churches breaking apart, families shunning each other, fights and debates breaking out about such small points of doctrine that they become silly. In Galatians, the silly conflict Paul was writing about was circumcision. Some believers had declared that circumcision was required for someone to be a Christian, which defeated the point of Christ overcoming the law. Their words and arguments were discouraging many new and potential Christians. Paul stated in Galatians 5:6, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
Do I think debating is wrong? No, not at all. Friendly debates are great ways to form and grow what you believe. When you debate, you realize more and more why you believe what you believe. However, it's very easy for a small debate to turn into a full-fledged argument. How can you express your faith and opinions through love while in a conflict? Here are five points I try to remind myself when I debate with a fellow believer.
No matter what we believe, we should still be unified.
The church was meant to be a place where believers could grow together and worship God as one body. There will be differing beliefs and varying doctrines, but there should still be a unity that brings us all together. Jesus Christ died for each one of us and we've devoted our lives to Him. That is our point of unity. Look at Ephesians 4:2-6. "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." We are of one faith. It's time to act like it.
Anger and sarcasm only makes things worse.
If you struggle with taming your words, I recommend James 3. James 3:9-10 says, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be." When you're debating and feel impassioned about your beliefs, it's so easy to become angry that the person isn't saying, "Yes, you're right. I was wrong." They may even use their words wrongly and offend you. No matter how good it
feels to put down someone else out of anger, your sarcastic or angry words will only hurt the situation.
You don't need to convince anyone you're right.
I know it feels good to "win" a debate, but that feel-good feeling isn't worth an argument. Which is better for keeping the peace: "I respect what you are saying, but I think we're going to have to agree to disagree" or pushing and pushing at the argument until you're both frustrated and red in the face?
Just because someone believes differently than you, don't love them any less.
Have you noticed that many Christians love on unbelievers in an attempt to be a witness, but often shun other Christians because of minor conflicts in doctrine? "I serve prostitutes breakfast every Wednesday, but I refuse to speak to him. He believes it's okay to read the NIV translation." Isn't that a little messed up? Yes, we should show constant love to unbelievers and to everyone around us, but we've been called to love each other as well. I love Galatians 6:10, which says, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong in the family of believers." Especially those who belong to our family of believers. We've been called to love each other. We're brothers and sisters in Christ. We're all children of God. Nothing should be big enough to tear us apart.
If it isn't a factor of salvation, it doesn't really matter.
Jesus Christ is God. He came down to earth as a human and lived without sin. He suffered and died as a sacrifice for our sins. Three days after He died, He came back to life and is still alive today. That's the basics of our faith. That is what unifies us all. If we have that in common, we are one body, one faith. We're united in Christ. In the grand scheme of things, nothing else matters.
Yes, there is right or wrong. When you're debating, one of you will be wrong. However, if debates that do not rely on salvation are tearing apart the body of Christ, then it's time to back off. Instead of alienating other believers, focus on your own heart and let others live what they believe. Love.
Ultimately, the truth will be revealed. When we're in heaven one day, we'll be shown what is right and what is wrong. You'll be right on some issues... and you may be wrong in others. But one day, the truth will be unfolded. For now, let the arguments and strife go. Focus instead on what sums up what we believe: loving the Lord and loving each other.
As Christians, we should strive to treat each other with love and respect, but I often overhear words of hatred and anger exchanged between believers.
"Christians shouldn't listen to instruments during worship."
"Christians have to worship on Saturdays, not Sundays."
"Christian girls who wear pants are immodest."
And the arguments go on and on and on. Some arguments are big. Some are small. Many are hateful and filled with bitterness.
Why do you think there are so many branches and denominations within the church? Everybody has differing beliefs, and that's okay. Is there a definite right or wrong? Yes. Do most of these debates truly matter in the grand scheme of things? No, not really.Despite our differences, we should accept one another with love, whether or not we agree with every point in each other's doctrine. Look at Colossians 3:13-15. "Bear with each other... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace..."
It makes me sad when I see so many people fighting against each other when we should be of one body. Why should we squabble like we do? Why should we burn each other with mean words and hateful attitudes? Why shun our brothers and sisters in Christ? Why can't we love each other, even when we disagree?
The other night, I was reading Galatians 4-6. Its words impacted my heart and made me ache for peace and unity. Galatians 5:13-15 says, "...Serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other."
I hear so many stories about churches breaking apart, families shunning each other, fights and debates breaking out about such small points of doctrine that they become silly. In Galatians, the silly conflict Paul was writing about was circumcision. Some believers had declared that circumcision was required for someone to be a Christian, which defeated the point of Christ overcoming the law. Their words and arguments were discouraging many new and potential Christians. Paul stated in Galatians 5:6, "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
Do I think debating is wrong? No, not at all. Friendly debates are great ways to form and grow what you believe. When you debate, you realize more and more why you believe what you believe. However, it's very easy for a small debate to turn into a full-fledged argument. How can you express your faith and opinions through love while in a conflict? Here are five points I try to remind myself when I debate with a fellow believer.
No matter what we believe, we should still be unified.
The church was meant to be a place where believers could grow together and worship God as one body. There will be differing beliefs and varying doctrines, but there should still be a unity that brings us all together. Jesus Christ died for each one of us and we've devoted our lives to Him. That is our point of unity. Look at Ephesians 4:2-6. "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." We are of one faith. It's time to act like it.
Anger and sarcasm only makes things worse.
If you struggle with taming your words, I recommend James 3. James 3:9-10 says, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be." When you're debating and feel impassioned about your beliefs, it's so easy to become angry that the person isn't saying, "Yes, you're right. I was wrong." They may even use their words wrongly and offend you. No matter how good it
feels to put down someone else out of anger, your sarcastic or angry words will only hurt the situation.You don't need to convince anyone you're right.
I know it feels good to "win" a debate, but that feel-good feeling isn't worth an argument. Which is better for keeping the peace: "I respect what you are saying, but I think we're going to have to agree to disagree" or pushing and pushing at the argument until you're both frustrated and red in the face?
Just because someone believes differently than you, don't love them any less.
Have you noticed that many Christians love on unbelievers in an attempt to be a witness, but often shun other Christians because of minor conflicts in doctrine? "I serve prostitutes breakfast every Wednesday, but I refuse to speak to him. He believes it's okay to read the NIV translation." Isn't that a little messed up? Yes, we should show constant love to unbelievers and to everyone around us, but we've been called to love each other as well. I love Galatians 6:10, which says, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong in the family of believers." Especially those who belong to our family of believers. We've been called to love each other. We're brothers and sisters in Christ. We're all children of God. Nothing should be big enough to tear us apart.
If it isn't a factor of salvation, it doesn't really matter.
Jesus Christ is God. He came down to earth as a human and lived without sin. He suffered and died as a sacrifice for our sins. Three days after He died, He came back to life and is still alive today. That's the basics of our faith. That is what unifies us all. If we have that in common, we are one body, one faith. We're united in Christ. In the grand scheme of things, nothing else matters.
Yes, there is right or wrong. When you're debating, one of you will be wrong. However, if debates that do not rely on salvation are tearing apart the body of Christ, then it's time to back off. Instead of alienating other believers, focus on your own heart and let others live what they believe. Love.
Ultimately, the truth will be revealed. When we're in heaven one day, we'll be shown what is right and what is wrong. You'll be right on some issues... and you may be wrong in others. But one day, the truth will be unfolded. For now, let the arguments and strife go. Focus instead on what sums up what we believe: loving the Lord and loving each other.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
What's your glass?
You know, being negative is one of the easiest habits you can make. It might start out with a bad day or something that makes you pretty mad... and then suddenly, your entire outlook is transformed. Honestly, is it easier to remember the difficult things that happen in a day or the happy things?
I've noticed lately that many of the people around me are much more negative than they are positive. I also easily fall into this habit. I go to school and a friend walks up to me and says, "I'm so tired. My alarm clock didn't wake me up this morning, so I had to get ready in
five minutes. Plus, I didn't get to do my homework last night, so I'm going to fail," and in an agreeing way, I often reply with something like, "Ugh, I know. I didn't fall asleep until three in the morning. I'm exhausted. I hope I didn't fail the test last period." And so the negativity begins.
This needs to stop.
When we're as pessimistic as we so often are, we're putting down the blessings we've been given by God. We're ignoring the good things in our lives and focusing on the negative. Look at the things you do have. Life, breath in your lungs, a Savior... There are so many gifts you've been given and those are only a few.
1 Chronicles 16:10 says, "...Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice."
\Sometimes, you gotta vent. I understand that because I have to vent too. But when the conversations you have with the people around you become more negative than they are positive, there is a problem. This week, I challenge you to outnumber the negative things you say with positive things. If you're feeling brave, I challenge you to not say anything negative at all, at least for an entire day.
Instead of negativity, fill your thoughts with happy things, with your blessings. If someone hurts your feelings, remind yourself about the friends you do have. If you wake up late, just think... you got a few minutes of extra sleep. If you get into an argument, remember that difficult situations sometimes happen, but they don't have to define your day. When you begin to shape your thoughts to think about joyful things rather than negativity, your entire outlook on life will begin to change.
God created you to be joyful, not down in the dumps and full of complaints. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 says, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." You were made to be joyful. Not lonely. Not sulky. Not negative. Not complaining. Strive to be thankful, even if you're having a tough time.
After all, there are so many things to be thankful for. If you're having trouble finding them, it may be time to start to change the way you think.
I remember reading Numbers 11:1 last year and feeling shocked. "Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of
the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp." God hates complaining. I can complain a lot at times. I stubbed my toe. I'm tired. I have a headache. I've had a bad day. It's so easy to dwell on the negative. But negativity causes God's anger to burn.
Yes, it's easy to think about how much you don't fit in or how bad of a day you've had or how much you wish you could be doing something else than what you're doing with your life... but it isn't God's will for you to dwell on the bad stuff in your life. He has blessed you, even if you don't feel like He has. If you're breathing right now, you're blessed. If you have one friend, you're blessed. If you have an education or food to eat, you're blessed. You've been blessed. It's time to act like it.
Have you ever known a true pessimist? You know, someone who can twist any situation into something awful? Aren't they an irritating person to be around? Don't they just bring you down? Try to remember that when you're with friends and constantly complaining or talking about negative subjects, you're bringing your friends down. You don't want to be "that friend" who brings everybody down with your pessimism.
You know, your relationship with Jesus Christ should give you joy. Are you focusing on the joy in your life or the things that make you unhappy? Which do you think glorifies God more: negativity or positivity? The Lord has given us so much. Let's thank Him with our thoughts, words, and actions and try to keep them positive. Does anyone agree?
Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
I've noticed lately that many of the people around me are much more negative than they are positive. I also easily fall into this habit. I go to school and a friend walks up to me and says, "I'm so tired. My alarm clock didn't wake me up this morning, so I had to get ready in
five minutes. Plus, I didn't get to do my homework last night, so I'm going to fail," and in an agreeing way, I often reply with something like, "Ugh, I know. I didn't fall asleep until three in the morning. I'm exhausted. I hope I didn't fail the test last period." And so the negativity begins.This needs to stop.
When we're as pessimistic as we so often are, we're putting down the blessings we've been given by God. We're ignoring the good things in our lives and focusing on the negative. Look at the things you do have. Life, breath in your lungs, a Savior... There are so many gifts you've been given and those are only a few.
1 Chronicles 16:10 says, "...Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice."
\Sometimes, you gotta vent. I understand that because I have to vent too. But when the conversations you have with the people around you become more negative than they are positive, there is a problem. This week, I challenge you to outnumber the negative things you say with positive things. If you're feeling brave, I challenge you to not say anything negative at all, at least for an entire day.
Instead of negativity, fill your thoughts with happy things, with your blessings. If someone hurts your feelings, remind yourself about the friends you do have. If you wake up late, just think... you got a few minutes of extra sleep. If you get into an argument, remember that difficult situations sometimes happen, but they don't have to define your day. When you begin to shape your thoughts to think about joyful things rather than negativity, your entire outlook on life will begin to change.
God created you to be joyful, not down in the dumps and full of complaints. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 says, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." You were made to be joyful. Not lonely. Not sulky. Not negative. Not complaining. Strive to be thankful, even if you're having a tough time.
After all, there are so many things to be thankful for. If you're having trouble finding them, it may be time to start to change the way you think.
I remember reading Numbers 11:1 last year and feeling shocked. "Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of
the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp." God hates complaining. I can complain a lot at times. I stubbed my toe. I'm tired. I have a headache. I've had a bad day. It's so easy to dwell on the negative. But negativity causes God's anger to burn.Yes, it's easy to think about how much you don't fit in or how bad of a day you've had or how much you wish you could be doing something else than what you're doing with your life... but it isn't God's will for you to dwell on the bad stuff in your life. He has blessed you, even if you don't feel like He has. If you're breathing right now, you're blessed. If you have one friend, you're blessed. If you have an education or food to eat, you're blessed. You've been blessed. It's time to act like it.
Have you ever known a true pessimist? You know, someone who can twist any situation into something awful? Aren't they an irritating person to be around? Don't they just bring you down? Try to remember that when you're with friends and constantly complaining or talking about negative subjects, you're bringing your friends down. You don't want to be "that friend" who brings everybody down with your pessimism.
You know, your relationship with Jesus Christ should give you joy. Are you focusing on the joy in your life or the things that make you unhappy? Which do you think glorifies God more: negativity or positivity? The Lord has given us so much. Let's thank Him with our thoughts, words, and actions and try to keep them positive. Does anyone agree?
Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Alphabetized Books
I'm a senior in high school, due to graduate at the end of May. To be honest, it still hasn't quite hit me that in seven months, I'll be moving away from my family and friends to live and attend school in another city. It's scary. Yes, I've traveled far away from home before. I've been to ten countries outside of the United States, eight of them away from my family, but I've never actually \lived away from home for longer than a month.
In my mind, I'm still a little girl struggling to learn how to tie her shoes.
How will I take care of myself in a few months?
Last night, I was curled up beneath the covers of my bed, thinking about how we had finally regulated the temperature in my bedroom. Each year, we deal with the same issues. At the beginning of the summer, each night is too hot and stuffy. By the end of autumn, we've finally regulated the temperature but the weather has started to become cold at night again, causing me to wake up in the middle of the night shivering like crazy. Anyways, last night, I was lying in bed and thinking, "Next year, before it gets so cold, I'll try..." and then I stopped.
Next year? What next year? I'll have moved out by then. I won't be living at home anymore.
And for a brief, awful moment, I felt like my entire world was crashing down around me.
]See, calling myself a creature of habit is an understatement. When my best friend Ali moved in for a couple of months, she quickly had to learn how opposed I am to change. Once she moved the box that holds my contacts from one end of the counter to the other and I nearly had a heart attack when I saw the difference.
I have to prepare myself before I flip the calendar pages each month... because the new page will be different from the last page.
You may not have noticed, but I hate change. I live by routine. I wear the same kinds of clothes, all color-coded in my closet. I keep an organized schedule before bed each night. Want to see it?
Check Facebook/my website/etc one last time.
Take a shower, get dressed, brush teeth, etc.
Unplug all electronics.
Shut all doors and drawers.
Get into bed.
Read three chapters of the Bible.
Read my latest book until the chapter number has a 3, 5, 7, or 0 as its last digit.
Carmex and lotion.
Check to see if alarm lock is set. Twice.
Check to see if the alarm sound is turned up.
Dim clock light.
Turn off lamp.
Check to see if alarm clock is set one last time.
Turn over pillow and start out sleeping turned away from the door.
It's the same thing every single night without fail. I don't like change. What scares me the most about going to college is the fact that I will have to begin a brand new schedule in a brand new environment all by myself. Everything will be different, which \is difficult for my mind to even comprehend right now.
I've been trying to prepare myself ahead of time. I change things in my bedroom and see how long I can take it before I have to change them back. For example, the other day, I put one of my alphabetized (by author) books on the wrong shelf. On purpose! That counts, right? I've started using a different kind of hairbrush. I even switched around a few wall decorations in my room to different walls.
The whole preparation thing has been working out pretty well, if I do say so myself. So far I've only had thirteen panic attacks since Tuesday... just kidding. But seriously, how am I going to survive moving out?
Change is inevitable. I know that. I can't stay a senior in high school forever... and I don't want to. I want to grow and mature and branch out and do great things, not be stuck in a high school student's bedroom for the next seventy years.
No matter how hard it might be to change environments, I know God is on my side. He will help me and strengthen me. And I'm deciding now that when the time comes, I will move to a new city with courage and strength... but I'll keep my alphabetized books.
In my mind, I'm still a little girl struggling to learn how to tie her shoes.
Last night, I was curled up beneath the covers of my bed, thinking about how we had finally regulated the temperature in my bedroom. Each year, we deal with the same issues. At the beginning of the summer, each night is too hot and stuffy. By the end of autumn, we've finally regulated the temperature but the weather has started to become cold at night again, causing me to wake up in the middle of the night shivering like crazy. Anyways, last night, I was lying in bed and thinking, "Next year, before it gets so cold, I'll try..." and then I stopped.
Next year? What next year? I'll have moved out by then. I won't be living at home anymore.
And for a brief, awful moment, I felt like my entire world was crashing down around me.
]See, calling myself a creature of habit is an understatement. When my best friend Ali moved in for a couple of months, she quickly had to learn how opposed I am to change. Once she moved the box that holds my contacts from one end of the counter to the other and I nearly had a heart attack when I saw the difference.
I have to prepare myself before I flip the calendar pages each month... because the new page will be different from the last page.
You may not have noticed, but I hate change. I live by routine. I wear the same kinds of clothes, all color-coded in my closet. I keep an organized schedule before bed each night. Want to see it?
Check Facebook/my website/etc one last time.
Take a shower, get dressed, brush teeth, etc.
Unplug all electronics.
Shut all doors and drawers.
Get into bed.
Read three chapters of the Bible.
Read my latest book until the chapter number has a 3, 5, 7, or 0 as its last digit.
Carmex and lotion.
Check to see if alarm lock is set. Twice.
Check to see if the alarm sound is turned up.
Dim clock light.
Turn off lamp.
Check to see if alarm clock is set one last time.
Turn over pillow and start out sleeping turned away from the door.
It's the same thing every single night without fail. I don't like change. What scares me the most about going to college is the fact that I will have to begin a brand new schedule in a brand new environment all by myself. Everything will be different, which \is difficult for my mind to even comprehend right now.
I've been trying to prepare myself ahead of time. I change things in my bedroom and see how long I can take it before I have to change them back. For example, the other day, I put one of my alphabetized (by author) books on the wrong shelf. On purpose! That counts, right? I've started using a different kind of hairbrush. I even switched around a few wall decorations in my room to different walls.
The whole preparation thing has been working out pretty well, if I do say so myself. So far I've only had thirteen panic attacks since Tuesday... just kidding. But seriously, how am I going to survive moving out?
Change is inevitable. I know that. I can't stay a senior in high school forever... and I don't want to. I want to grow and mature and branch out and do great things, not be stuck in a high school student's bedroom for the next seventy years.
No matter how hard it might be to change environments, I know God is on my side. He will help me and strengthen me. And I'm deciding now that when the time comes, I will move to a new city with courage and strength... but I'll keep my alphabetized books.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The Broken Doll
The clouds were dark.
The little girl stood still, silent beneath the rain that struck her skin like shards of glass. Her hands hung limp at her sides. She was weary from the struggle it took to merely walk under the force of the relentless storm.
I'm so tired.
The little girl's dress was once white and beautiful. It had become tattered and gray, a remnant of what it once was. The girl was ashamed of her dress, of her heart, of her past. She had been fighting for so long. The rain hadn't stopped for what seemed like years.
So many mistakes. So many regrets that brought her to this moment. The little girl could only stand still; too weak to press forward any longer. She had struggled long enough. Fragile, like a broken doll. Once she was whole. Once she was beautiful. Her heart had become only filthy shards that pricked the palms of her hands. Dirty. Used. Ugly.
The clouds roiled above her in an empty, darkened sky. An angry clap of thunder crashed through the stillness of the air and the little girl fell to her knees. She tilted her head up to the sky and screamed with all her might. I've made so many mistakes. I'm broken. Worthless. Ugly. I can't do this anymore.
I thought I was Your child.
Tears. Rain. Cold. The little girl was fragile and small against the pounding rain of the storm. It battered her frail form and muddied the tattered edges of her dress. Where are You?
Slowly, the rain lulled until it came to a complete stop, leaving a damp and muddy ground in its wake. Are You here? The girl's knees shook as she struggled to her feet. I need You. She lifted her arms to the sky and clenched her small fists. The rain was gone, but she knew she wasn't alone. She could feel Him. She quaked with fear and shame. Did He still love her? Could He ever forgive the things she had done? Oh, what she would have given to feel loved again, to hear the warmth of His voice whispering into her heart.
The little girl's voice was hoarse, nearly gone, but she screamed all the more.
I NEED YOU!
With a flash of light brighter than anything the little girl had ever seen before, the clouds disappeared altogether. The girl tumbled to the ground, covering her eyes with trembling hands. I'm so broken. So ugly. I've ruined everything and I'm sorry...
I still love you.
The words burned through the girl's heart like a hot iron, leaving her winded and gasping for breath.
I've never left you. You've always been My child. Will you come home?
The girl was too overcome to speak. She squeezed her eyes shut and stretched her hands up to the sky, to the light, to the warmth of the love that seemed to radiate all around her. But I'm undeserving.
You're forgiven. You're loved. You're Mine.
When the girl opened her eyes again, everything was quiet. The light was still blindingly bright, but it no longer hurt her eyes. The girl stood up slowly, hardly able to take in the beauty of the earth around her. She was standing in a garden, surrounded by green grass and brightly-colored flowers and a gurgling brook filled with clear, beckoning water.
A garden restored by rain.
I'm so ugly compared to all of this. He can give me a beautiful garden, but I'm still broken. Still worthless. A tear trickled down the little girl's cheek, but a flash of white caught her eye. Pure white.
Her dress. The little girl's dress was white as snow, just like it used to be.
The girl gasped, spinning around and watching the white folds of her dress catch in the sunlight. As she twirled, a voice murmured lovingly into her heart, My child, I can make anything whole again. You're no longer a broken, tattered doll. In My eyes, you're beautiful. You're My precious little girl.
No longer broken and ugly, but precious and transformed. Brand new, just like the garden. The little girl lifted her hands into the air and smiled up at the sky.
I'm Yours.
The little girl stood still, silent beneath the rain that struck her skin like shards of glass. Her hands hung limp at her sides. She was weary from the struggle it took to merely walk under the force of the relentless storm.
I'm so tired.
So many mistakes. So many regrets that brought her to this moment. The little girl could only stand still; too weak to press forward any longer. She had struggled long enough. Fragile, like a broken doll. Once she was whole. Once she was beautiful. Her heart had become only filthy shards that pricked the palms of her hands. Dirty. Used. Ugly.
The clouds roiled above her in an empty, darkened sky. An angry clap of thunder crashed through the stillness of the air and the little girl fell to her knees. She tilted her head up to the sky and screamed with all her might. I've made so many mistakes. I'm broken. Worthless. Ugly. I can't do this anymore.
I thought I was Your child.
Tears. Rain. Cold. The little girl was fragile and small against the pounding rain of the storm. It battered her frail form and muddied the tattered edges of her dress. Where are You?
Slowly, the rain lulled until it came to a complete stop, leaving a damp and muddy ground in its wake. Are You here? The girl's knees shook as she struggled to her feet. I need You. She lifted her arms to the sky and clenched her small fists. The rain was gone, but she knew she wasn't alone. She could feel Him. She quaked with fear and shame. Did He still love her? Could He ever forgive the things she had done? Oh, what she would have given to feel loved again, to hear the warmth of His voice whispering into her heart.
The little girl's voice was hoarse, nearly gone, but she screamed all the more.
With a flash of light brighter than anything the little girl had ever seen before, the clouds disappeared altogether. The girl tumbled to the ground, covering her eyes with trembling hands. I'm so broken. So ugly. I've ruined everything and I'm sorry...
I still love you.
The words burned through the girl's heart like a hot iron, leaving her winded and gasping for breath.
I've never left you. You've always been My child. Will you come home?
The girl was too overcome to speak. She squeezed her eyes shut and stretched her hands up to the sky, to the light, to the warmth of the love that seemed to radiate all around her. But I'm undeserving.
You're forgiven. You're loved. You're Mine.
When the girl opened her eyes again, everything was quiet. The light was still blindingly bright, but it no longer hurt her eyes. The girl stood up slowly, hardly able to take in the beauty of the earth around her. She was standing in a garden, surrounded by green grass and brightly-colored flowers and a gurgling brook filled with clear, beckoning water.
I'm so ugly compared to all of this. He can give me a beautiful garden, but I'm still broken. Still worthless. A tear trickled down the little girl's cheek, but a flash of white caught her eye. Pure white.
Her dress. The little girl's dress was white as snow, just like it used to be.
The girl gasped, spinning around and watching the white folds of her dress catch in the sunlight. As she twirled, a voice murmured lovingly into her heart, My child, I can make anything whole again. You're no longer a broken, tattered doll. In My eyes, you're beautiful. You're My precious little girl.
No longer broken and ugly, but precious and transformed. Brand new, just like the garden. The little girl lifted her hands into the air and smiled up at the sky.
I'm Yours.
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