Recently, a peer posted on his Facebook that the body of Christ should survive, not thrive. Now, I looked at it, stared at it for a while, and pondered responding to it. Then, I concluded, he wouldn't care. I mean, sometimes, I think people say stuff just to say that they're saying philosophical words without really taking the time to mull over their words.
"And so the body of Christ should survive, not thrive."
Okay, first of all, I hope you realize that there are countless Scriptures regarding the blessings God promises to His children (the Abrahamic covenant, the Mosaic covenant, and the Davidic covenant are a few prominent ones). People that survive aren't given blessings to be lavished, because when you think about, why are we given blessings? Do they serve a greater purpose? To present a political standing? To rebuff popular opinion? It's neither. It's to show love. Ergo, God loves us and subsequently blesses us. Now think of people who need to survive. What usually comes to mind? In North America, it's people below the economic quota (such as the homeless, the sick who aren't able to receive the proper medical attention, immigrants [if you wonder how I can this, you should know that my family was immigrants in Canada and lived less than what people make in one day's work on minimum wage], and sometimes, foolish and reckless people. They resort to desperate measures to make ends meet. People that thrive rest in promises and certainty. That being said, is that really what the body of Christ wants to paint to the world, that we are people desperately trying to make ends meet? That we are the average, if not below the status quota, and that we are the people that need people's help? Or should be rival Donald Trump's assets, give abundantly to those who need help, and stretch our hands and help because we have the financial possibilities? Survival is often an adapted mindset, forced by uncomely circumstances. Serving Jesus isn't adapting to unmerciful circumstances and being forced to deal with it. Perhaps the reason why people don't give Christians a time of day in regards to financial matters is because we ourselves don't believe it first. How can we portray something we don't believe in? The problem starts with the Church. If they first change the way they perceive certain things, then they will have a greater chance of witnessing to people because when you have tangible facts backing up your belief, it's hard to argue with it.
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22.1.12
18.1.12
5 Myths About Christianity
Readers, whether or not you worship Christ, or even another religious deity, it's unfortunate to say that there is a misconception regarding Christianity. There are so many myths and fallacies that people wonder why it's such a heavily scrutinized religion. And while there are plenty other reasons (another post, another day), part of the reason is that there are certain presumptions about Christianity that make people second guess. And, to be perfectly clear, since I am a Christian and love Jesus, I want to highlight them to expose that while there are imperfect people, God is a perfect God who can take even the most immalleable clay and make something beautiful with form.
1. Christians are perfect and have no need to lean, depend, and trust God once they make Him Lord of everything. That is the most incorrigible rubbish! In fact, that is perhaps the biggest lie people have about non-believers. Let me be perfectly clear: The process of receiving Christ does not make your problems "magically" disappear. In fact, it may arouse the opposing effect; you may encounter more problems because you pose a threat to the devil. The reason why people need and want God is because they realize that without Him, things are never going to go smoothly, life will never be not chaos, and that pit will never grow smaller unless they seek Help, Help that is much bigger than the problem itself. Christians are imperfect people and God works and molds that imperfection to create something beautiful, to put it on display. A Christian are an imperfect person that recognize their flaws and sees the need to change that flaw. The main point is that while everyone has problems, it's how they rise above their problems that counts...and who ends up victorious in the end.
2. Your theology is not your God. There is a big one. Theology, according to a definition, is the study of God and religious belief. Your theology is not whom you serve. Theology allows you to understand the nature of God. For example, in the Christian theology, God is depicted as a Father (to show His kind nature), as a King (to show His holiness and sovereign standard), and Creator (who divinely created the universe for human inhabitation) are a few that allow mere humans to understand the essence of God. It's difficult to wrap our minds around a sovereign and holy being, but, with tangible metaphors, such as father and ruler, one can begin to grasp the character of God. However, that does not mean you worship your theology. It's difficult to differentiate between the two, but one must be able to distinguish what's one theology and what is the God that he serves.
3. (Unfortunately) Christians do speak Christianeze. In case you're wondering, there is a "special" language in Christianity that allows Christians to speak worldly without appearing so. Let me give a scant list:
We should pray together = I want to gossip
Would God approve of that? = [a condescending way of saying] That is not okay
I have an impression upon my heart = I have a problem/thought
As I was praying for you, I had a feeling/thought. Is there something on your mind/heart? = a subtle way of asking personal matters
We should band together = We need to band together to appear as the majority
It's an unfortunate reality. So, be warned.
4. All Christians are the same. Au contraire, depending on the denomination, you will be led to believe certain things that other denominations do or not believe. For example, Baptists do not believe in the moving of the Holy Spirit while Pentecostals are more liberated to activate the presence of the Holy Spirit. Presbyterians lean more towards on the traditional/conservative side, while Pentecostals are much more liberal. It really all depends on the denomination, which in turn, depends on your personality and which suits you better, but I assure you that every Christian is not the same.
5. Christians are not cool. As a Christian, I can defend that position by rebuffing and saying that Christians are, in fact, cool. If a person bases Christianity based on people, rather than who that person serves, then it's not a proper assessment. Christian people are the coolest people ever because not only do they go to Heaven, but they also get access to God's covenant and blessing. What isn't cool about that?
I hope this enlightens you and that you all see Christianity not fundamentally as a religion with regulations, rules, and commands, but as a deep, intimate, and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
1. Christians are perfect and have no need to lean, depend, and trust God once they make Him Lord of everything. That is the most incorrigible rubbish! In fact, that is perhaps the biggest lie people have about non-believers. Let me be perfectly clear: The process of receiving Christ does not make your problems "magically" disappear. In fact, it may arouse the opposing effect; you may encounter more problems because you pose a threat to the devil. The reason why people need and want God is because they realize that without Him, things are never going to go smoothly, life will never be not chaos, and that pit will never grow smaller unless they seek Help, Help that is much bigger than the problem itself. Christians are imperfect people and God works and molds that imperfection to create something beautiful, to put it on display. A Christian are an imperfect person that recognize their flaws and sees the need to change that flaw. The main point is that while everyone has problems, it's how they rise above their problems that counts...and who ends up victorious in the end.
2. Your theology is not your God. There is a big one. Theology, according to a definition, is the study of God and religious belief. Your theology is not whom you serve. Theology allows you to understand the nature of God. For example, in the Christian theology, God is depicted as a Father (to show His kind nature), as a King (to show His holiness and sovereign standard), and Creator (who divinely created the universe for human inhabitation) are a few that allow mere humans to understand the essence of God. It's difficult to wrap our minds around a sovereign and holy being, but, with tangible metaphors, such as father and ruler, one can begin to grasp the character of God. However, that does not mean you worship your theology. It's difficult to differentiate between the two, but one must be able to distinguish what's one theology and what is the God that he serves.
3. (Unfortunately) Christians do speak Christianeze. In case you're wondering, there is a "special" language in Christianity that allows Christians to speak worldly without appearing so. Let me give a scant list:
We should pray together = I want to gossip
Would God approve of that? = [a condescending way of saying] That is not okay
I have an impression upon my heart = I have a problem/thought
As I was praying for you, I had a feeling/thought. Is there something on your mind/heart? = a subtle way of asking personal matters
We should band together = We need to band together to appear as the majority
It's an unfortunate reality. So, be warned.
4. All Christians are the same. Au contraire, depending on the denomination, you will be led to believe certain things that other denominations do or not believe. For example, Baptists do not believe in the moving of the Holy Spirit while Pentecostals are more liberated to activate the presence of the Holy Spirit. Presbyterians lean more towards on the traditional/conservative side, while Pentecostals are much more liberal. It really all depends on the denomination, which in turn, depends on your personality and which suits you better, but I assure you that every Christian is not the same.
5. Christians are not cool. As a Christian, I can defend that position by rebuffing and saying that Christians are, in fact, cool. If a person bases Christianity based on people, rather than who that person serves, then it's not a proper assessment. Christian people are the coolest people ever because not only do they go to Heaven, but they also get access to God's covenant and blessing. What isn't cool about that?
I hope this enlightens you and that you all see Christianity not fundamentally as a religion with regulations, rules, and commands, but as a deep, intimate, and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
10.1.12
The 10 Rules of Modesty
If you're like me, you wonder why there is a severe lack of modesty, why the media is determine to indoctrinate women of America that the only way to attract a man is to express more than you should, and why behaving less than comely is not only seductive but ultimately the very thing that makes you a woman. Why are all the shows so explicit that the main female protagonist meets with the main male, have a good connection and click almost instantly, and then, half an hour later, they're seen in bed. Why? Has the world lost the sense of mystery, the art of the chase, and mastering of being coy? Apparently, it appears to be so. People now assume that the woman is supposed to chase the guy. (I must state that I am belittling the rise of feminism; I'm simply stating that every woman loves to chased, to know that a guy is pining after her.) People also assume that if you dress more provocatively, you will have more guys. While that is more or less true, are you attracting the type of men you would want as a husband? Or as a father?
Here are my rules of modesty. These are simply my own opinions accumulated by a plethora of extensive reading.
1. How you dress does determine your morale.
I know this is something that not everyone likes to hear, but how you chose to clothe yourself determines a part of your identity. It reflects a mirror image of who you are. If you dress with a lot of cleavage, short shorts that may expose part of your butt, you may have males following you around like a dog pants on a hot summer day, but ask yourself: What type of man am I trying to attract when I dress like this? Is this the type of man I can depend on? Have children with? Provide for me and my family? People judge you by how you dress. It is sad and unfortunate, but it is nonetheless the truth.
2. Respect yourself.
This ties in closely with number one. Have respect for yourself. Respect yourself with such profundity that you wouldn't dare expose that much of your chest, raise the hemline that it nearly exposes your bum, or would cause older gentleman to cultivate unnatural thoughts. When you have respect for yourself, people can see. In fact, a girl that has profound respect for herself is much more attractive that a trashy slut. Why? Because she knows who she is and there is no one that can tell her otherwise. And she also knows what she can and cannot do.
3. Be confident.
Again, this parallels one and two. When you are 100% confident in your identity and who you are a person, my, it is a fearsome thing to behold. Confident girls don't need to trashy clothes to attract men; they don't need filthy language to gain attention; and they certainly do not need to behave not like themselves to receive attention. Stand with your shoulders upright. Speak clearly and with crisp enunciation. Confidence is sexy. I'm sure you've all heard that expression before. Well, it's true. When a women wears something with confidence...watch out. She is the type of woman who knows where she stands and will stand for it. Guys want that.
4. Be mysterious.
Less is more indeed. When you don't reveal anything all at once, a guy thinks, "Wow, I want to more," and thus initiates a chase. There is so much more to you that meets the guy and because you reveal only a handful, you are leaving in suspense and he wants to discover more of you. This is the type of chase you want to have.
5. Behave like a lady.
This is really important. Don't burp in public. Don't fart. Don't attract unwanted attention to yourself by picking your teeth, itching your bum, or something else that may potentially be embarrassing down the road. Say please and thank you. Open the doors for elders. Use flatware properly. Stand straight. Sit correctly. When you behave like a lady, a proper lady, there is an aura about you that cannot be missed. Perhaps the Victorians were onto something when they had strict rules about etiquette. Again, there are some extremes, but when you behave comely, you gain proper attention that leaves the gentlemen in the room wondering who you are.
6. Be interesting.
Translation: be yourself. However, this comes with a twist. Do something fascinating. Take a pottery class. Skydive. Travel the world. Go to Atacama Desert in Chile. Visit the Swiss Alps. Do something that not everyone does.
7. Be a kind spirit.
This is perhaps the best thing you can do without ever using your tongue. When you are kind and warm and soft (in terms of personality), people are drawn to you. There is something about you that reins them in, akin to a magnetic pull. They want to know you. They want to spend more time with you.
8. Take pride in your looks.
This should not be taken out of context. This simply means that work with what you've got and flaunt it! If you have darker skin, wear designs with lighter colors. If you are Latin, use that to your advantage. IF you have fair, porcelein-like skin, wear red lipstick so that it stands out again your lovely complexion. Make your features stand out (in a good way!). You only have one face, one body; cherish it and illuminate beauty.
9. Do not chase the guy under any circumstances whatsoever.
This is hard because when girls have their eyes set on a specific fellow, they want to be around him, talk to him, and be with him. You should definitely show interest (smile at him, laugh at his jokes [if they are somewhat funny], compliment him), but you should not be the one who is chasing him or pursing him. You can show interest but still be indifferent. That causes the guy to wonder if you like him, sparking a series of events that often results in your favor. Leave him wondering. Compel him in such a way that he feels like he has the need to do something in order for you to clarify your feelings for him.
10. Clean language.
There is no bigger turn-off for a guy (beside hygiene) than foul language. There is no need for that. There are many other words in the dictionary that would better fit the context of your conversation.
Here are my rules of modesty. These are simply my own opinions accumulated by a plethora of extensive reading.
1. How you dress does determine your morale.
I know this is something that not everyone likes to hear, but how you chose to clothe yourself determines a part of your identity. It reflects a mirror image of who you are. If you dress with a lot of cleavage, short shorts that may expose part of your butt, you may have males following you around like a dog pants on a hot summer day, but ask yourself: What type of man am I trying to attract when I dress like this? Is this the type of man I can depend on? Have children with? Provide for me and my family? People judge you by how you dress. It is sad and unfortunate, but it is nonetheless the truth.
2. Respect yourself.
This ties in closely with number one. Have respect for yourself. Respect yourself with such profundity that you wouldn't dare expose that much of your chest, raise the hemline that it nearly exposes your bum, or would cause older gentleman to cultivate unnatural thoughts. When you have respect for yourself, people can see. In fact, a girl that has profound respect for herself is much more attractive that a trashy slut. Why? Because she knows who she is and there is no one that can tell her otherwise. And she also knows what she can and cannot do.
3. Be confident.
Again, this parallels one and two. When you are 100% confident in your identity and who you are a person, my, it is a fearsome thing to behold. Confident girls don't need to trashy clothes to attract men; they don't need filthy language to gain attention; and they certainly do not need to behave not like themselves to receive attention. Stand with your shoulders upright. Speak clearly and with crisp enunciation. Confidence is sexy. I'm sure you've all heard that expression before. Well, it's true. When a women wears something with confidence...watch out. She is the type of woman who knows where she stands and will stand for it. Guys want that.
4. Be mysterious.
Less is more indeed. When you don't reveal anything all at once, a guy thinks, "Wow, I want to more," and thus initiates a chase. There is so much more to you that meets the guy and because you reveal only a handful, you are leaving in suspense and he wants to discover more of you. This is the type of chase you want to have.
5. Behave like a lady.
This is really important. Don't burp in public. Don't fart. Don't attract unwanted attention to yourself by picking your teeth, itching your bum, or something else that may potentially be embarrassing down the road. Say please and thank you. Open the doors for elders. Use flatware properly. Stand straight. Sit correctly. When you behave like a lady, a proper lady, there is an aura about you that cannot be missed. Perhaps the Victorians were onto something when they had strict rules about etiquette. Again, there are some extremes, but when you behave comely, you gain proper attention that leaves the gentlemen in the room wondering who you are.
6. Be interesting.
Translation: be yourself. However, this comes with a twist. Do something fascinating. Take a pottery class. Skydive. Travel the world. Go to Atacama Desert in Chile. Visit the Swiss Alps. Do something that not everyone does.
7. Be a kind spirit.
This is perhaps the best thing you can do without ever using your tongue. When you are kind and warm and soft (in terms of personality), people are drawn to you. There is something about you that reins them in, akin to a magnetic pull. They want to know you. They want to spend more time with you.
8. Take pride in your looks.
This should not be taken out of context. This simply means that work with what you've got and flaunt it! If you have darker skin, wear designs with lighter colors. If you are Latin, use that to your advantage. IF you have fair, porcelein-like skin, wear red lipstick so that it stands out again your lovely complexion. Make your features stand out (in a good way!). You only have one face, one body; cherish it and illuminate beauty.
9. Do not chase the guy under any circumstances whatsoever.
This is hard because when girls have their eyes set on a specific fellow, they want to be around him, talk to him, and be with him. You should definitely show interest (smile at him, laugh at his jokes [if they are somewhat funny], compliment him), but you should not be the one who is chasing him or pursing him. You can show interest but still be indifferent. That causes the guy to wonder if you like him, sparking a series of events that often results in your favor. Leave him wondering. Compel him in such a way that he feels like he has the need to do something in order for you to clarify your feelings for him.
10. Clean language.
There is no bigger turn-off for a guy (beside hygiene) than foul language. There is no need for that. There are many other words in the dictionary that would better fit the context of your conversation.
1.1.12
Does Geography Define Your Identity?
I've recently struggled with this question. I was recently told, for bizarre reasons, that I am not good enough in a specific criteria simply because I am Eastern European. He didn't even take in account of my qualities, my strengths, my talents...nothing. He simply dismissed it and assessed that because I am Romanian, I'm not good enough. Now, I haven't lived in Romania since I was 2, so I can't really say that I am 100% Romanian in the sense that I've been saturated in the culture; I know the language, was born in the country, and speak fluent Romanian. Is that a good enough reason to render less than worthy? Is my geographic origin a reason why you see me less than a human being?
Jesus is a Jew; He was born in Israel. He has dark hair, dark eyes, and dark skin, and ministered in present-day Middle East. He wasn't American with light skin and blue eyes. So perhaps the next time you make a potentially racist comment, think about the fact that you not only harbour acrimony towards African-Americans and Eastern Europeans, but perhaps you don't like the fact that the Jesus you serve was a dark-skinned, eyed, and haired Jew, something that evidently clashes your theology.
Deal with that.
Jesus is a Jew; He was born in Israel. He has dark hair, dark eyes, and dark skin, and ministered in present-day Middle East. He wasn't American with light skin and blue eyes. So perhaps the next time you make a potentially racist comment, think about the fact that you not only harbour acrimony towards African-Americans and Eastern Europeans, but perhaps you don't like the fact that the Jesus you serve was a dark-skinned, eyed, and haired Jew, something that evidently clashes your theology.
Deal with that.
31.12.11
Some Last Few Words...
...before the year is officially over, of course.
Alright, so, ever since going to college, I've had the opportunity to refine my fashion, both personally and aesthetically. Seeing everyone with different style sense allowed me to question whether or not there was any more room for improvement in terms of refining my taste; there was.
1. Equestrian chic
Riding boots, elbow pads, cable knits, the whole shebang. There is something so inexplicably chic about equestrian attire. Although it was used to for riding shoes, it has managed to integrate itself in many closets across the globe.
2. Ivy League
There are times where I wish I attend an Ivy League school (unfortunately, my SAT scores won't allow that) because of the style usually associated with going there. The shoes, the tops, the bags, the headbands. There is just so much fashion crawling on those campuses.
3. Pan Am
the '60s. Need I say more? Apart from the transcontinental travel and espionage, and attractive men, the fashion is absolutely ravishing. Amazing.
Alright, so, ever since going to college, I've had the opportunity to refine my fashion, both personally and aesthetically. Seeing everyone with different style sense allowed me to question whether or not there was any more room for improvement in terms of refining my taste; there was.
1. Equestrian chic
Riding boots, elbow pads, cable knits, the whole shebang. There is something so inexplicably chic about equestrian attire. Although it was used to for riding shoes, it has managed to integrate itself in many closets across the globe.
2. Ivy League
3. Pan Am
the '60s. Need I say more? Apart from the transcontinental travel and espionage, and attractive men, the fashion is absolutely ravishing. Amazing.
2011 At a Glance
January: SAT'
February: Florida
March: Got my acceptance letter from university
April:
May: Celebrating my baby sister's 2nd birthday
June: Turning 18
July: Attended university orientation
August: Moved to university
September: Had a minor setback when I injured my knee
October: Canadian Thanksgiving
November: American Thanksgiving
December: Enjoying the last month of the year
Needless to say, 2012 is going to be even better.
February: Florida
March: Got my acceptance letter from university
April:
May: Celebrating my baby sister's 2nd birthday
June: Turning 18
July: Attended university orientation
August: Moved to university
September: Had a minor setback when I injured my knee
October: Canadian Thanksgiving
November: American Thanksgiving
December: Enjoying the last month of the year
Needless to say, 2012 is going to be even better.
2.12.11
Typical College Quandaries
I wouldn't trade being a college student for anything. For the record, I think that high school is exponentially over-rated, with all the drama, animosity, and cliques that pertain to high school. And I must admit, I am extremely fortunate enough to attend a relatively small Christian university that are true to their values and the students are honest and real. But this past week, with all my assignments (2 papers, 1 test, 1 quiz, 1 discussion post, 1 response post, and beginning my study schedule for finals), I've begun to realize that college literally isn't all about fun and staying up last two in the morning. And while I have been doing that since school day 1, it's really caught up with me this week. And even with all the stress and potential difficulty I could have endured, I would not trade this not even for one second. Even with stress and difficulty, that doesn't mean that God doesn't want me here. I mean, the logic that it's harder and poses more obstactles should prompt the fact that this is God's will for my life. I could have easily have quit, said this is much too hard, and refuse to go forward. I know several peers that when are in the front of hardships, they will cross their arms, and say, it's much too hard and quit. No sirree, not for me. I don't usually vent, but I think this is a reason why I created this blog in the first place: so that I can respectfully list my ideas and opinions.
This week though, I've been struggling with the fact that I cannot change who I am so that I present a "better" form of myself. Or, vying for attention as if I'm in some sort of competition. I reject that. Just because some type of girls are more "outgoing" that I am, that does not justify the fact that you can flirt with every guy that crosses your path. I mean, seriously! Is there no discretion or prudence anymore! Whatever happened to mystery and keeping yourself quiet? The more you don't say, the more he has to wonder (in a good way). Isn't that the whole point of keeping the chase alive? No, apparently not at my school, because every single girl throws herself at the first guy she sees in hopes that he'll make a move. And with some of my friends (lady gals), I feel as though I'm always in a competition to see which girl gets which guy, which girl gets which guy's attention and can keep it, and which girl can make which guy like her back. I am so sick and tired of all that crud! And because I refuse to succumb to that type of behavior, I appear anti-social and taciturn when I don't have a good reason to! Sometimes, I honestly wish guys weren't eating that flipping BS up. I know guys like that and all, but have they truly lost the desire to find their precious and begotten treasure? Aren't they interested in finding their Proverbs 31 woman?
And another thing, if a guy likes a girl, I find, he will not tease her and joke menacingly with her. Not if he really likes her. I understand the playful jesting and the poking and childish teasing, but not headlocks and neck. Sometimes, I am so fed up with the immaturity some guys on campus have; they do not know how to treat a girl properly sometimes. And if they do, they get labelled as a "gentleman" and will finish last. I gaurantee you, gentlemen, that you do not finish last. While girls like a sense of adventure and find rebellious guys attractive, at the end of the day, they want a guy they know will cherish them, protect them, love them, and respect them. I think it's time for guys to stop being hormonally driven sex creatures and stand up and be a freaking man already!
Phew! I apologizing for ranting like that. Usually, I'm much more civil and can hold my thoughts together, but this week...I felt the need to let it out. And this is my blog, after all. Again, I'm not revealing anything personal, like people's name or voicing my opinions over Facebook as if it was my journal or diary entry. This is real life and refuse to be fake or hide things. This is how I feel. I've said it and now I can move on.
This week though, I've been struggling with the fact that I cannot change who I am so that I present a "better" form of myself. Or, vying for attention as if I'm in some sort of competition. I reject that. Just because some type of girls are more "outgoing" that I am, that does not justify the fact that you can flirt with every guy that crosses your path. I mean, seriously! Is there no discretion or prudence anymore! Whatever happened to mystery and keeping yourself quiet? The more you don't say, the more he has to wonder (in a good way). Isn't that the whole point of keeping the chase alive? No, apparently not at my school, because every single girl throws herself at the first guy she sees in hopes that he'll make a move. And with some of my friends (lady gals), I feel as though I'm always in a competition to see which girl gets which guy, which girl gets which guy's attention and can keep it, and which girl can make which guy like her back. I am so sick and tired of all that crud! And because I refuse to succumb to that type of behavior, I appear anti-social and taciturn when I don't have a good reason to! Sometimes, I honestly wish guys weren't eating that flipping BS up. I know guys like that and all, but have they truly lost the desire to find their precious and begotten treasure? Aren't they interested in finding their Proverbs 31 woman?
And another thing, if a guy likes a girl, I find, he will not tease her and joke menacingly with her. Not if he really likes her. I understand the playful jesting and the poking and childish teasing, but not headlocks and neck. Sometimes, I am so fed up with the immaturity some guys on campus have; they do not know how to treat a girl properly sometimes. And if they do, they get labelled as a "gentleman" and will finish last. I gaurantee you, gentlemen, that you do not finish last. While girls like a sense of adventure and find rebellious guys attractive, at the end of the day, they want a guy they know will cherish them, protect them, love them, and respect them. I think it's time for guys to stop being hormonally driven sex creatures and stand up and be a freaking man already!
Phew! I apologizing for ranting like that. Usually, I'm much more civil and can hold my thoughts together, but this week...I felt the need to let it out. And this is my blog, after all. Again, I'm not revealing anything personal, like people's name or voicing my opinions over Facebook as if it was my journal or diary entry. This is real life and refuse to be fake or hide things. This is how I feel. I've said it and now I can move on.
1.12.11
Has Love Become a Kissing Show?
If you look around, you'll likely not find a tv show where its main characters will not kiss. In fact, it might happen in the pilot episode! And then, in class series premise, complications will follow and then comes the drama...But on a serious note, is that to what kissing has become? Just something two sexually-charged people do? In Switchfoot's song, Easier Than Love, the lyrics are, "sex is currency, she sells cars, she sells magazine. Addictive, bittersweet, clap your hands with the hopeless nicotines. Everyone's a lost romantic, ever since love became a kissing show, everyone's a Casanova, come and pass me the mistletoe..." Whatever happened to kissing being a sweet, tender way of showing your significant other how much you love them? And I'm not talking about swivelling your tongue down his/her throat and you're practically eating each other's faces. No, no; I'm talking about that long awaited moment when your lips would touch his (or if you're a guy, touch hers), and it would be so sweet, so wonderful, that you will replay it in your head a thousand times over because you want to feel that again. Your kiss can be passionate but have no sexual motives. I think the problem is that we have lost what passionate, love, and the meaning of a kiss means. Back in Austen's day, a kiss was something reserved for special occasions. These days, people kiss (several times) without even being in a relationship! You're just succumbing to potent hormones! That's not what a kiss, or love for that matter, is supposed to be. It's time to go back to the times when a show would wait at least several seasons before writing for 2 characters to kiss, instead of the first episode. A kiss is supposed to be something special...Honestly, it seems that the significance of a kiss has lost its meaning...
21.11.11
Artwork
16.11.11
November Style
This is what is on my mind in the mild month of November. Clearly, I'm not in Canada anymore!
15.11.11
Should Christians Do Yoga?
This is really controversial topic simply because different people have different views on this. You can practice yoga while mediating on the Word of God; there are "Christian yoga", doing the poses and not the mediation doesn't constitute as actual yoga, and etc. Now, I'm about to discuss why I think Christians should not make a habit of practicing yoga. I repeat: this is simply my own opinion. And this article specifically to Christians. If you're reading this, I encourage that you learn something new, but you do not have to take this to heart. Christians, I hope you get something from this and make you ponder...
First, you should know some things about yoga:
I've seen Christians say that "I'm a level 1/2/5/etc. level yogi" and there is something you should know about these so-called "innocent and inevitable" levels:
The first 3 levels are just beginning levels, to help you test the waters, so to speak. But I assume you'e familiar with this type of scheme: the evil lures you in with innocent looking tactics, and when you give in entirely, he won't let you go without a fight. As you go to the 7th and 8th levels, you begin to realize that implementing the spiritual aspect of yoga.
“You shall have no other gods before Me. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God…Exodus 20:3-4
When you practice yoga, do the poses, or even the mediation aspect, you are bowing down to another god. And you committing idolatry towards God. When you enter a yoga studio and say Namaste, you are entering the temple (figuratively speaking) of that god (or gods).
You adulterers! Don't you know that making friends with the world makes you enemies of God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be the world's friend becomes God's enemy. (James 4:4)
Why are you practicing yoga? Have you ever asked yourself this question? Now, before you say it's because it promotes wellness and boosts healthy benefits, are you doing it because it's popular and everyone else is doing it and celebrities are doing it (helping its popularization)? You need to understand that as a Christian, you are alienated from the world anyway because you have Jesus Christ living in you and that makes you strange, not like everyone else. When you do yoga, you are making friends with the world, finding an ally in the evil one, and God will have to respect your decision, and His hand will come off you. Yes, I realize that sounds austere, but the truth of the matter is that you need to decide: God or the world (and yoga constitutes as the world because, according to the Word, the world is anything that does not bring God glory).
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2
If you want the health "benefits" that yoga gives, practice Pilates. If you were to be honest with yourself, 100% complete honesty, you call yoga "YOGA" for a reason, even though you are not doing mediation. Practice Pilates instead. It's stretching, increases health benefits, and there is no spiritual adultery against God. Plus, it's not a practice that is done by religious Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, or New Agers. But that decision is up to you; I'm just providing you with an alternative.
First, you should know some things about yoga:
- Yoga means "to yoke" or "to unite"
- Yoga is an Eastern pagan tradition that dates back to 5th century B.C.
- Namaste means "I bow to you" in Sikh (Sikhism)
- Ommmm…is a common phrase associated with yoga. Om is the deepest pitch the throat can produce and therefore signifies the most deepest part of the human soul
- Each of the positions in yoga is a worship stance for one of the 330 million gods in Buddhism
To those who say that practicing the poses are harmless, perhaps you did know this:
- Sun salutation = sun god
- Headstand poses = achieve even mind, partial enlightenment, and even fearlessness
- Animal poses = get some of the attributes each animal possesses (lion = bravery; eagle = clear mind)
- Tree pose = calm, balanced, and in control
- Warrior stance = spirituality
- Lotus = self-mediation for a deeper state of enlightenment
Those poses are worship stances to different gods. You are not just doing arbitrary poses to something non-existent; you are bowing down to a pagan god.
1.Karma yoga−it appeals to ethics or the active temperament. The objective is selfless service.
2.Bhakti yoga−appeals to the emotional temperament. The objective is pure love and devotion
3.Raja yoga−appeals to the mystical and scientific temperament. The objective is self-control and self-mastery
4.Jhana yoga−appeals to the philosophical/enlightment and intellectual temperament. The objective is wisdom and knowledge
1.Yama−universal morality
2.Niyama−personal observances
3.Asanas−body postures
4.Pranayama−breathing exercises, and control of prana (vital energy in the body)
5.Pratyahara−control of the senses
6.Dharana−concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness
7.Dhyana−devotion, Meditation on the Divine
8.Samadhi−union with the Divine
Another thing you should realize is that yoga incorporates Buddhism, Hinduism, and various other Indian and Eastern religions. (Just type in "yoga" in Wikipedia and you'd be surprised what you will find out to as what yoga actually is.) In fact, David Frawley, an American Hindu author, and founder and director of the American Institute for Vedic Studies ties in Buddhism with yoga. “There are eightfold (ashtanga) system of Yoga emphasizing an integral spiritual development including ethical disciplines (Yama and Niyama), postures (Asana), breathing exercises (Pranayama), control of the senses (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana) and absorption (Samadhi). This constitutes a complete and integral system of spiritual training.” He is clearly knowledgeable in this field and if he says that yoga incorporates spiritual aspects, then it would be wise to adhere to his words and consider that yoga isn't as harmless as it seems.
When you practice yoga, do the poses, or even the mediation aspect, you are bowing down to another god. And you committing idolatry towards God. When you enter a yoga studio and say Namaste, you are entering the temple (figuratively speaking) of that god (or gods).
You adulterers! Don't you know that making friends with the world makes you enemies of God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be the world's friend becomes God's enemy. (James 4:4)
Why are you practicing yoga? Have you ever asked yourself this question? Now, before you say it's because it promotes wellness and boosts healthy benefits, are you doing it because it's popular and everyone else is doing it and celebrities are doing it (helping its popularization)? You need to understand that as a Christian, you are alienated from the world anyway because you have Jesus Christ living in you and that makes you strange, not like everyone else. When you do yoga, you are making friends with the world, finding an ally in the evil one, and God will have to respect your decision, and His hand will come off you. Yes, I realize that sounds austere, but the truth of the matter is that you need to decide: God or the world (and yoga constitutes as the world because, according to the Word, the world is anything that does not bring God glory).
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2
One thing that yoga primarily teaches is that you are your own god, you are the center of your own universe, you must empty your mind in order to align yourself with the world. Now, does it say anywhere in the Bible that we worship ourselves? No! Also, the first part of this Scripture tells us not to copy the customs of this world. Yoga, as you guessed it, falls under that category. Yoga tells us that we don't need God since we are our own god and that we rule our universe with our own moral code.
If you want the health "benefits" that yoga gives, practice Pilates. If you were to be honest with yourself, 100% complete honesty, you call yoga "YOGA" for a reason, even though you are not doing mediation. Practice Pilates instead. It's stretching, increases health benefits, and there is no spiritual adultery against God. Plus, it's not a practice that is done by religious Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, or New Agers. But that decision is up to you; I'm just providing you with an alternative.
To conclude, I will ask you this (and I realize this might cliche): what would Jesus do? Seriously, what would He do? Would he practice yoga to connect more with His inner Self? (If so, what job would the Holy Spirit have?) Would He enter another temple and worship that god(s)? The decision is ultimately yours, but for me (as this is my own personal opinion), I don't see the need to do yoga. I exercise (to promote wellness and health), I pray and have His Word in my heart so that it never departs, and I'm constantly close to Him. So I have no need for a tawdry counterfeit when I have the real thing.
REFERENCES:
Yoga Vidya Gurukul University. (2010). Pranayama - (From Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga). Retrieved 11 10, 2011, from YogaPoint.com: http://www.yogapoint.com/info/pranayama.htm
Frawley, D. (n.d.). Yoga and Buddhism. Purify Our Mind. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.purifymind.com/YogaBudd
Fristoe, D. (2010, October 25). RELEVANT Magazine - Is it Okay for Christians to Do Yoga?. RELEVANT Magazine - God. Life. Progressive Culture.. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.relevantmagazine.com/life/whole-life/features/23243-is-it-okay-for-christians-to-do-yoga
Yoga Journal - Yoga Journal Releases 2008 "Yoga in America" Market Study. (n.d.). Yoga Journal: Yoga Poses, Classes, Meditation, and Life - On and Off the Mat - Namaste. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.yogajournal.com/advertise/
Bagby, L. J. (n.d.). Health - Should Christians Do Yoga?. CBN.com - The Christian Broadcasting Network. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.cbn.com/health/fitness/bagby_yoga-alternative.aspx
West, M. (2007, September 14). Christians are mixed up...in mysticism. RenewAmerica. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.renewamerica.com/columns
West, M. (2007, September 14). Christians are mixed up...in mysticism. RenewAmerica. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.renewamerica.com/columns
Ireland, J. (n.d.). Spiritual Meanings Of Yoga Postures | LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM - Lose Weight & Get Fit with Diet, Nutrition & Fitness Tools | LIVESTRONG.COM. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from http://www.livestrong.com/article/395082-spiritual-meanings-of-yoga-postures/
(If you would like to leave a comment below, be civil. I encourage feedback as long as it does not look uncomely.)
12.11.11
What Your Style?
After much speculation due to many inquiries, I have finally been able to label my "style". For a long time, I wasn't sure what my style because I was reinventing myself, so to speak, and therefore, I was unsure what my style was, or if I even had one. Now, after 3 year since deciding that, I have been able to identify my style:
- Retro/vintage a la Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Jackie O, and Babe Paley
- Blair Waldorf (that preppy, collegiate, and feminine look)
- Equestrian
- Frenchy and nautical
- Preppy/collegiate (remember Rory Gilmore's prepster days during her first year at Yale...?)
- Euro-chic (I get an infusion of this every year when I gaze at the mode in downtown Zurich)
I like having my own sense of style and being individualistic about it. I don't like shopping at stores and buying certain things just because everyone else is doing it. Nuh-uh, I don't follow that path; I make my own.
4.11.11
Is Home Where the Heart Is?
Hi readers! I know, I know...it's been much too long since my last post! Much has happened since then: friendships deepened, homework load doubled, and maintaining a social life is typical for a college student. Since coming to live in Virginia, I've come to see Regent as my home. I know that's such a weird thing to say since living in Canada for the past 16 years should be my home, but since settling in college, I feel as this is part of my home. When I visited Canada for fall break, it felt incredibly strange because all the familiar faces I see every single day weren't there anymore. The hallway, the scenery, the people...it's part of my home. When I came back from fall break, that feeling in the pit of your stomach when you're approaching your house when your a little kid? Yeah, I felt that when I could see the campus. I've never felt at home as I do here. It's just the perfect fit.
I'll post more often now as I'm managing my schedule better now. Until next time! ;)
I'll post more often now as I'm managing my schedule better now. Until next time! ;)
2.10.11
WWBWD?
What would Blair Waldorf do?
With the fifth season of Gossip Girl currently airing, I've acclimated my favorite looks and continue to find her as my fashion inspiration.
Seriously. Every time I glance at Blair Waldorf photos, I am continually amazed at her style. There needs to be a Blair Waldorf line.
To be fair, there are certain photos of Serena that I admire and I have therefore added them here too:
With the fifth season of Gossip Girl currently airing, I've acclimated my favorite looks and continue to find her as my fashion inspiration.
Seriously. Every time I glance at Blair Waldorf photos, I am continually amazed at her style. There needs to be a Blair Waldorf line.
To be fair, there are certain photos of Serena that I admire and I have therefore added them here too:
American Vogue
Leave it to me to say something about American style. However, because of a myriad of reasons, people have constantly told me that the style between Americans and Canadians but after living in America for more than a month now, I can now say with certainty that that is certainly not true. While there are considerable difference between so-called "American" style in Canada and actual American vogue, I have to call out blatant disparities.
1. Urban Outfitters. A lot of people are really hipster here. With thick-rimmed glasses, indie band tees, record players, TOMS (see #2), and listening to underground music. That is something you definitely don't see in the streets of Toronto cause everyone wears Hollister or Abercrombie. People dress too similar back home while here there is some differences. Not much, but...it's there.
2. TOMS. Everyone wears TOMS here. In Canada, it's not quite a big trend; whereas here, every 1 in 2 people have a pair of TOMS. I considered purchasing a pair of TOMS simply because they're comfortable and versatile but after I realized that since almost everyone has a pair, I rallied against being like everyone else. So I wear my salmon-colored penny loafers and that makes me very happy. Plus, I receive countless compliments, which also put a smile on my face.
3. Feather extensions. I noticed that a lot of people are adding fake feather extensions in their hair. Interesting. Not that I'm against it but I can't put it in my hair lest my hair grows 4 inches in a matter of minutes.
4. Local hang out shops. Not really constituting as part of style, but I still felt that it was noteworthy. I've taken inventory and realized that many people (emphasis on the many) like to hang out in local, one-of-a-kind sentences that are not part of national chain restaurants.
1. Urban Outfitters. A lot of people are really hipster here. With thick-rimmed glasses, indie band tees, record players, TOMS (see #2), and listening to underground music. That is something you definitely don't see in the streets of Toronto cause everyone wears Hollister or Abercrombie. People dress too similar back home while here there is some differences. Not much, but...it's there.
2. TOMS. Everyone wears TOMS here. In Canada, it's not quite a big trend; whereas here, every 1 in 2 people have a pair of TOMS. I considered purchasing a pair of TOMS simply because they're comfortable and versatile but after I realized that since almost everyone has a pair, I rallied against being like everyone else. So I wear my salmon-colored penny loafers and that makes me very happy. Plus, I receive countless compliments, which also put a smile on my face.
3. Feather extensions. I noticed that a lot of people are adding fake feather extensions in their hair. Interesting. Not that I'm against it but I can't put it in my hair lest my hair grows 4 inches in a matter of minutes.
4. Local hang out shops. Not really constituting as part of style, but I still felt that it was noteworthy. I've taken inventory and realized that many people (emphasis on the many) like to hang out in local, one-of-a-kind sentences that are not part of national chain restaurants.
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