Once Upon A Time...

The Raven Saint - M. L. Tyndall

2010-04-23T07:05:00.000-07:00

If you have not had the pleasure of reading MaryLu Tyndall's work, you are in for a treat. When I first discovered her, I was sold from the very first book I picked up (and could not put back down). Since then, I anticipate each new title with excitement. I have learned many things from her as a writer and as a follower of Christ. Each book has grown me up in my heavenly Father, but none so much as The Raven Saint.

The Raven Saint is book three of her Charles Towne Belles series, and quite an ending it is. Grace Westcott, our heroin, has always been more in-tune with God than her two sisters. However, even us faithful have our faults.

Amidst her service to God, she is kidnapped and intended to be sold off to a Spanish Don in Columbia. She sees it as another mission from God but, unlike the poor and needy, no one upon the French mercenary's vessel will listen to her.

The situation grows worse, causing her to face her own human weaknesses, including her love for her captor -Captain Rafe Dubois.

The book is full of adventure, romance, and suspense. But, above all, a timeless message we followers of Christ should hear and heed. I urge you to pick one up and find out for yourself. And I dare you not to enjoy it. ;)

~L. Pierce

Returning to Egypt

2010-04-22T10:14:00.001-07:00

There has been one thing in particular on my mind as of late. It has concerned the Israelites. Once freed from Egypt and the horrible slavery they endured, they griped and complained and wished to return to their miserable existence.

It has consumed my thoughts... They were free, but they wanted to return to slavery? One might reason they were mad, yet they were sane enough to leave in the first place so that doesn't account for much. So, why on earth would they prefer a life of slavery over the freedom God had miraculously given them?

One thing comes to mind. They would have preferred the hardship in Egypt rather than face new, unknown ones in the wilderness because they knew for certain they would be taken care of. In Egypt they were protected and cared for (to an extent) -though the price for it was wrought with pain and cruel labor. But it was a life nonetheless. They had grown so accustomed to slavery they forgot what it was like to be free. Put simply, they had grown comfortable and feared losing it for uncertainty. And even though God had all but stood before the Pharaoh Himself and made him quiver, they had plenty of evidence they were in Good Hands.

I dare say, the people of this once proud country have become just like them. Our every whim is met. Every need and want is quickly attained. We are very comfortable. But we have been brainwashed into thinking that way for a price, just as the Israelites were. While we live these lives, we are gradually losing our freedoms because of it. The unbelievable thing is, people don't care. As long as they are taken care of; as long as they have everything they need; why should anything else matter?

We have lost sight of the world we live in. We are not the only things on this earth, so why is it we act like we are? "What would the world be like without Captain James Hook?" How about what would the world be like without selfishness and greed? These are the thoughts my hopes and dreams soar upon.

I may get guff for saying these things, but last I checked, this was still a free country. Equally so is the freedom to take what I say or leave it.

Our current government doesn't care about what is best for us but what is best for them. Even before elections, they appealed to that brainwashed part of us which requires to be cared for. They won because of it, proving their disloyalty to us. They used us! Now they have what they want, they could care less what we want. The only things on their minds are what will make them superior. It matters not who gets trampled in the process. Or who gets forgotten.

What we forget is they wouldn't be where they are without our say. Obama wouldn't be president unless he was voted in, so we cannot blame God for the misery we have inflicted upon ourselves. The Israelites had no one to blame but themselves for their complaints. God had saved their existence because he had more in store for them, yet they were afraid to take that first step of faith and to look beyond their own comforts and needs.

Yet...

We still have the power to change even the most awful of mistakes! Praise God for second chances! I pray we wake up and take action! This new Sheriff of Nottingham is only one man against many. He may seem like he has all the power in the world, but in reality, he is still but one man. He relies on us more than we rely on him.

To quote Queen Elizabeth in the movie The Sea Hawk, "But when the ruthless ambitions of a man threaten to engulf the world, it becomes the solemn obligation of all free men to affirm that the earth belongs not to any one man, but to all men. And that freedom is the deed and title to the soil on which we exist."

Be assured, if we do not, God will. And it may not be what we need, but it will be what we deserve.

~L. Pierce

Santa, Satan?

2009-12-24T19:41:00.000-08:00

Seems to me these words are a bit too close for comfort. Satan. Santa. All the same letters, only the n moves from the middle to the end. Okay, call me skeptical or a word nerd, but is it just in word alone? Could it be that the similarities don’t end there? Do we dare to compare? Lol need you ask? ;-)

Who is Satan?

From what the Bible tells us of him, he was not only the means of the first disobedience, labeling him as opposed to God, but we are also told he was kicked out of heaven for trying to replace God.

And he still tries to get all the glory. Look all around us! What is evil? What is temptation? A means to keep us from God and all that is good, yet again.

Satan is not only a deceiver but also a liar. He is behind all that is evil and all that seeks to destroy us and keep us from the truth and is not beyond telling a tale to do so.

Keep in mind, he is depicted in one way as a RED thing with horns and a pitch fork. And we can’t forget the actual serpent -or wolf in sheep's clothing- he portrayed to lie to Eve.

Now, who is Santa?

Santa is a fat man in a RED suit who rides around in a flying sleigh pulled by reindeer (A little far fetched? I think so.). He’s always depicted as having twinkly blue eyes and white hair -thick beard and mustache included.

What you may not realize is he is a distraction from the real meaning of Christmas -Jesus Christ. That makes him a deceiver too and, in effect, trying to keep us from God.

Whether he intends to or not, Santa is pushing out Christ -the truth. This then makes him a liar as well. Not to mention many parents make Christmas all about Santa Claus bringing presents instead of the truth of Christ’s birth which led to His death for all of us. We are squashing out truth with lies and Santa is at the head of them all around this time of year.

So... The comparison is pretty inseparable.

Sure, give Santa a kind, giving heart. Tell kids he is the one behind the presents when in reality he doesn’t exist. All more lies. And for what? A fat man in a suit. A deceiver and stealer of all that is true and good.

Which seems more meaningful... A man who breaks into your house every Christmas Eve to leave gifts, or One who came to live on this earth in order to die for all of our sins? The only reason Santa might seem more meaningful is because he preys on people’s selfishness. He is ALL about the presents!

So, give him blue eyes and white hair. You can give him all that and more! But, he is still no different than Satan himself. And people are in turn feeding him and his lies.

Not me. I need something that’s real and true to celebrate. Not that I’m against fairy tales by any means, but when we try to replace the truth of Jesus Christ with ridiculous tales, that’s where I have a problem.

Merry Christmas to you all! May the real reason for the season bring joy and comfort to your home and family. I wish you many blessings and adventures in the coming year.

~L. Pierce

Health and the Bible, Part One

2009-10-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

A lot of followers of Christ seem to think the Bible tells us only how to be saved from an eternity in hell, nothing more, and that the rest is up to us to figure out. But I have a hard time with this concept. A God that proves Himself time and time again as the God of the Bible does wouldn’t leave us to “fend for ourselves.” Especially when it comes to being healthy!

So I set out to find answers...

What exactly does the Bible tell us about being healthy? Anything?

For one, we are told God loves and takes care of us:

“If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” ~Matthew 6:30

“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” ~Luke 12:24

These are only two verses proclaiming this truth, but the proof of it concerning God’s faithfulness to the Israelites is sound.

Secondly, God wants the best for our lives:

“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 a hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11

Without our health, we have no future.

You might be thinking, why then does He let so many good people die from “incurable” diseases? But hold on a second... God didn’t call any disease incurable, man did. That means man is the only one who doesn’t know how to cure it. Not God.

Just hang in there with me and I will answer the question, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself. I wish to lay things out in an orderly fashion.

Let’s go way back to the beginning. In the Garden of Eden after God had finished creating man -the delight of all his Creation- what was it he gave them to eat for food?

That’s right... Fruits, Grains, and Nuts:

“Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.” ~Genesis 1:29

Then, as a result of the Fall, He gave them Vegetables:

“It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field.” ~Genesis 3:18

As a babysitter/nanny, I’ve been in many homes and fed many kids what has been available to me. In almost every home, there are not nearly enough -if any at all- of these foods. There is meat, there is dairy, there is bread, and there is sugar (lots and lots of sugar).

Anyone can google the benefits of fruits, vegetables, and nuts and find they are critical to promoting good health, which makes sense since they were the first foods God gave us! Fruits, as do vegetables, provide vitamins, minerals, and even fiber! So, where have all the fruits and veggies gone? Nuts are rich in fiber, phytonutrients (you know, those things necessary for sustaining human life?), and antioxidants as well as being choked full of good fats.

If you’re wondering: Yes, the Bible does make mention of good and bad fats - Leviticus 7:23.

Is it any wonder those kids, bless their hearts, fight for their health in some form? That’s not their fault or God’s fault. It’s not even mine for feeding them. It’s their parents for not supplying better.

By the time God allowed eating meat in the Scriptures (after the Global Flood), the need for vegetables, nuts, and fruits hadn’t changed! In fact, after the Flood, there was no vegetation, so the only food available was meat. And look at how a diet of meat effected life spans -before the Flood people lived to be around 900 years old, but Noah’s son, Shem, lived to be only 600. After him, Abraham lived only to 175!

This need still has not changed. These things remain our number one food, though one wouldn’t think so to look at the way the average American eats. We’re all about our meats. Burgers, ribs, hot dogs, steak.

Now, don’t get me wrong. As mentioned, God allowed the eating of meat (certain meats, mind you, as made clear in Leviticus). Meat is not a bad thing -I am far from a vegetarian. But the lack of fruits, nuts, and vegetables IS a VERY BAD thing. Those things are imperative to our continued health because God gave it to us as our sole food. Now-a-days meat is the main part of our diet.

I repeat... Is it any wonder there is such sickness and death in this country??? The average life span is in the 70’s! We are literally killing ourselves! No terrorist group should worry about us. At the rate we’re going, we’ll be out of their way soon enough. Just let the ills take us. But, I say NO! Please, we must stop killing ourselves. God did not bless this country the way He has for us to take advantage of it and destroy ourselves!

At this point, some Christians fighting an illness would probably say, “If it is my time to die, then so be it. It must be God’s will.” But wait a second. We just read that God wants the best for us. How is being sick the best for us? That is not God’s will. It was also not God’s will for us to die either (in a spiritual sense), hence why he sent Jesus.

I’ve even known a few believers to say, “I don’t want to be on this earth longer than I have to,” as an excuse to not take care of themselves. People, I can’t stop thinking that this is nothing short of suicide. If you give up on life and taking proper care of yourself, when you know better, you are allowing yourself to die and doing so by your own hand. How do the two differ?

God is very clear in His Word. “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..” ~Hosea 4:6

There is your answer: God allows people to die because they do not seek knowledge. They do not seek to learn from Him. They do not seek to really try. They would rather rely on fallible man (the quick and easy solution), than to rely on God the Father that knows EVERYTHING! He doesn’t want us to be sick, sickness leads to nothing! We can’t be anyone for Him if we are sick, and God has such an amazing purpose for all of us! But, at the same time, He will not force us to do anything. He gave us free will to decide and He wants US to be the ones to choose to do right.

The answers are clear and simple. God has given us all we need from the very beginning, if we would but comply.

A bit of advice though...

We must examine EVERY option and where it will lead before making a final choice. Please, DO NOT rely on one person’s opinion with something as complex as your body. It is dangerous ground. You wouldn’t rely on your own opinion, would you? How is one more person any better?

And do not be forced into something by fear. Look to the God who made you for answers on how to maintain His temple, your body. He will be quick to respond, trust me. But you must be willing to comply.

Finally, let’s not forget our fruits, vegetables, and nuts (and by this, I don’t mean peanuts-those are not nuts). God was right to give them to us as food from the very start.

~L. Pierce

P.S. -- A great resource to learn more about nutrition is the Amazing Health magazine by Amazing Facts. The website is www.amazinghealth.com. You can find the fantastic articles from the magazine under Health Articles.

If you would like your own personal magazine, leave a post with your email address below and I would be happy to send you one at no cost. Whatever it takes.

Next Posting--- Herbal Medicine, The Product Of A Caring God

But Then There Was God

2009-09-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

This testimony is absolutely phenomenal! This woman's son was, according to a medical doctor, incurable. But then there was God...

Watch the video here -

http://www.sidroth.org/site/News2?abbr=tv_&page=NewsArticle&id=8479&security=1041&news_iv_ctrl=-1

I challenge anyone to explain how this could be possible without God.

It just amazes me. I'm sitting here on the brink of tears after watching this video. I knew I had to post it. The Lord is so incredible, and there can be no doubt that He loves us beyond measure. Praise Him forevermore!!

Pardon me for getting off topic now...

Lately I've been in a researching mode for a lot of things but, in particular, Herbal Medicine and Health. I'm blessed to have a mother who shares a love for books like I do, so my Library is already full of sources on this topic. The month of October I would like to use to share some of what I'm learning and finding. This could include history, the Bible, the medical field, any and all of it.

I hope you'll stay tuned. This topic gets me so excited. It's further proof of God's incredible love and provision.

Be well! Have a blessed week!
~L. Pierce

A First For Iceland

2009-09-15T12:14:00.001-07:00

There have been several firsts for me the end of August. First time flying in an airplane. First time leaving the country. First time ordering room service. And first time witnessing the beauty Iceland had to share. Let me assure you, there was lots of that last one.

As before, I wasn't able to blog during the trip, so I'll give a summary.

I discovered rather quickly that I LOVE flying! Particularly, watching the earth get smaller and smaller the higher you go. Our flights were nice, too. On the back of the seats were screens to watch a movie or show, listen to music, learn Icelandic, or play games on. It made the trip faster and a lot of fun (unless you had a broken screen).

We arrived in Keflavik around midnight, Saturday morning, and were driven to Reykjavik, the most populated city in Iceland. That day turned out to be a big event -Culture Night, August 22nd. There were bands playing all over the city throughout the day and into the evening, and it ended with a gorgeous display of fireworks (in my opinion, ten times better than we have here in the states).

After two nights in Reykjavik, our adventure began to circle the entire island in 6 days. We received our vehicle in the morning on Sunday and set off that afternoon. Our drives each day were full of land, water, and mountains or at least two out of three. The land ranged from lava rock, gravel, and black sand. Green moss was a frequent growth, unlike trees, and was more often than not found growing on the lava rocks.

We stopped several times to see some incredible waterfalls and glaciers. The water there is so pure and clear, if it hadn’t been so cold, we would have jumped in for a swim.

The places we stayed were lovely and unique. My dad opted for the highest rated ones and they sure were. We either stayed at the foot of a mountain, in a big city (which there weren’t many of), or near water of some sort.

At Lake Myvatn, we got to ride Icelandic horses which look like ponies because they are smaller than the horses we have in the US, but to call them such is actually offensive to Icelanders. The ride was so enjoyable!

We wandered off our mapped route once to see a harbor town and boy, were we glad we did! More beautiful water across from mountains with snow spotting the peaks. It was breathtaking.

The trip was definitely something we all will never forget. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an escape to a gorgeous location, and I think we all would love to go back!

My sister and I took lots of pictures and my brother actually filmed the trip. You can see the pictures on my Facebook page, just find me under the email address elecviolnplar101@hotmail.com -Lauri Pierce. I’ll let you know when the video is up online once my brother finishes editing and such.

Sorry the update is late! With school starting and such, things have been crazy. In fact, I’m rushing off to get ready for a busy evening. Hope this finds you all well! :)

Until next time,
~L. Pierce

P.S. I simply must figure out how to add pictures to my posts. I would have put one up with this had I known how.

Follow Me

2009-08-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

We all follow something, whether we admit it or not. It could be the latest horoscope or media update on our favorite actor(-tress) or singer. Could even be a few friends.

Jesus knew this about us, too. Throughout the four Gospels, we read of Him saying these very words to people. “Follow me.”

“Well, so what? Why does it matter what I follow after?” you might be thinking.

Last night, I read in The Holy Spirit and You by Dennis and Rita Bennett, “Christianity is not founded on the teachings of Jesus, but on the Person of Jesus. It isn’t what He taught, but Who He is, that matters most.”

This is so true, and it helps us to understand a bit more of why He said to follow Him. Let me show you.

If you read Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Bible, who would you say Jesus was? What sort of character did He have? He was certainly loving, caring, generous, compassionate, kind, selfless. And we could probably go on.

Based on this then, if we chose to “follow” Him, we too would adopt these qualities, wouldn't we? Absolutely.

The same is true if we follow something like the media, for example. It will change us one way or another. Watching all those perfect people going to clubs and drinking until they don’t know which end is up anymore sends the message that in order to be like them -to follow them- we must do the same. Doing as they do is one step closer to accomplishing our goal... It’s no wonder so many people drink.

But, the question remains, is the media a wise thing to follow?

I’m sure I don’t need to remind everyone how many people die from drinking. And I’m not talking about just drinking and driving (check out the stats on drinking and driving -http://www.salinecountysheriff.com/Drunk.html). 140,000 people, this link says. And this is just for America.

As for drinking alone, let me share some more statistics...

An article at Telegraph says 15,000 people die from alcohol related diseases each year. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2563443/Fifteen-thousand-people-die-from-alcohol-related-diseases-every-year.html

Another link said that 76,000 people died a year in India from alcohol abuse-http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_many_people_die_each_year_from_drinking_alcohol_in_India_only. It also says, “I would guess that the figures are underreported a bit because many families refuse autopsies for their obviously drunken relatives. These figures also don't reflect criminal acts like murders and suicides, many of which are directly alcohol related.”

And that’s only two locations! Now, this blog isn’t about drinking, so let me get back on track.

Media. If we follow it, it teaches us drinking is cool. Yet, drinking is nothing short of deadly. Media leads to drinking which leads to death. To shorten it, media leads to death.

Is the media really something we want to be following? We’ll be willingly following our ultimate demise. Think long and hard about it...

There is lots of truth then to what Jesus said. “Follow me” wasn’t meant to form a possy or become the largest group of people in the world. I give people more credit than that.

No, Jesus meant it for life. He meant it to save us by giving us a worthy Leader to follow.

Who or what do you follow?

~L.Pierce

Some Journal pfft

2009-08-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

Man, has the time flown. My journal didn't really turn out how I'd hoped. During the week of the conference my schedule consisted of mostly sleeping, eating, driving, and sitting with the occasional chance to sight see here and there. So, my time was pretty spent. Not a whole lot to offer in the writing department. Then when I reached my Grandmother's house in PA after the first week, I didn't have net access for my computer. There goes that!

Truth be told, I don't know what I would have shared about the trip anyway. It was so incredible and anointed, yes, but it was one of those times you have to experience for yourself.

But, let me try and give you a taste of the week of the conference anyway...

Ruby Tuesday's has seen a lot of me and Stacy. At almost every one we ate at this one song ALWAYS came on... "I love it when you call, I love it when you call, I love it when you call, but you never call at all." That was in essence all there was to the song. Drove me nuts, but their salad bar made up for it. Haha

The area where we stayed at in Mason, Ohio and went to for the conference in Kentucky were great! Upon arrival we heard ravings about this ice cream place called Graeter's and wouldn't you know it, there was one right next to the church where the conference was held. Several days in a row we had ice cream every day. I'm convinced if you've never had Graeter's, you haven't had real ice cream. In fact, you don't even know what ice cream is until you've had Graeter's.

There was also Skyline Chili we were told was a must try, but I wasn't impressed (no offense to them). Just seemed too much like a fast food restaurant. lol Not my thing.

One of the sites we got to see on our tour of the area was the Newport Aquarium. It was really nice! They had some really cool aquatic creatures. The highlight, however, was the one wall with a painting of, I believe it was a Loch Ness monster (using it's scientific name, of course). But it was the ONLY display that incorporated the Evolutionary millions of years. I couldn't help thinking to myself... That's all Evolutionists have is a painting on a wall. Being on top of the Creation versus Evolution debate, the conference showed several other examples of this very thing. So, standing in front of this portrait (though it was well done), I actually had to laugh.

There was so much more to Creation College 3, I couldn't even begin to share everything. I must say though how Jason Lisle stole the conference with his new book The Ultimate Proof of Creation. He spoke several times on it throughout the conference and it's PHENOMINAL! This approach is full proof to defending the Bible. Don't believe me? Try me.

It's so true. Our God is astounding. Get the book. You won't be sorry! :)

Oh, and last but not least... the Creation Museum. *sigh* Stacy and I went 3 times. Lol it was [insert big, complementary word here, I'm out lol]! What I loved the most was how they didn't shove Creation and the Bible down anyone's throats. They actually gave you both of the worldviews present today -Creation and Evolution. And they left the choice up to you. Unlike secular museums who only offer one view as if there isn't any other. The Creation Museum is another must in my opinion.

The trip was definitely a success then! I had such a great time! Stacy, thank you for being my traveling buddy. No one could have taken your place. :) Can't wait for next year, too! Creation College 4 is already dated and the location set. I'll be there!

Until next time, this is Lauri, signing off. Hope you all are having a great summer!

Journal from the Road Day 2

2009-07-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have a joke...

Why did the blonde turn around and head back home to Virginia after only making it halfway to Ohio?

Answer: She read the sign

Hurricane
1 Mile

and drove as far away from it as possible.

Lol, no joke, there is actually a city called Hurricane in West Virginia. Stacy (my driving buddy) and I passed it on our way to Ohio. It spurned the blonde joke, which I can pick on because I've been told I am one (I still don't believe it). :P

Forgive me if I don't make much sense in what I say tonight. I'm exhausted and my head has been bugging me.

We have made it to our lodging for the conference and are so blessed by the wonderful family we're staying with. My mom told me I would enjoy them, I just didn't realize how much and how quickly. They are absolutely precious!

And this trip, too, has already been amazing. I've seen God's hand in so many aspects that it's impossible to say it all somehow happened and that I'm not intended to be here.

Tomorrow we start the conference and I can't wait to see what else the Lord has in store.

For now though, I must get some sleep. Hope to share more in the next day or so, preferably when I'm not so weary.

Until then, let the adventures continue! Bring God along with you, He makes it a million times better. :)

~L. Pierce

A Night to Remember

2009-07-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Hope you all had a fantastic July 4th with lots of food (preferably no beef due to that E. Coli outbreak) and fireworks! Wanted to share a little piece of mine...

The symphony I'm a member of performed down at the beach that night and we were honored to play with American Idol contestant, Felicia Barton. You can see a video of her performance here -http://www.youtube.com/user/FeliciaBartonTV.

The night was truly a memorable occasion as is the holiday itself. Showing our gratitude for our military, our country and it's freedom, and to God is what makes July 4th special to me. And this one I'll never forget.

~L. Pierce

Contest Story - Resurrection

2009-07-01T13:31:00.001-07:00

This month will be kind of slow in the posting department due to a busy schedule... So, I've decided it's time to share one of my stories...

Here's a short story I wrote for a game contest. Let me know what you think! :)

RESURRECTION

by Lauri Pierce

The age of the Lich King remains. No one has been able to withstand and defeat him, though many have tried. As a last resort, an alliance between the Horde was sought but swiftly denied.

Cities have been overthrown by his minions. Stormwind, Orgrimmar, Dalaran, Shattrath, and others -they have all fallen to his forces that grow stronger each day.

No place is safe anymore.

The redemption of the Death Knights had given us all hope. We thought it to be a sign of the future that all would be well and that evil would be quenched. But one day their strength and
power was somehow drained from them, leaving them helpless and mortal, and all of us confused. The only thing we were certain of was the Lich King’s involvement.

He proceeded to slaughter all our healers, removing our only means of resurrection and assured defense.

Everywhere I go, the land is strewn with bodies -permanent marks of the Lich King’s rule. The Death Knights can be found among them; nothing more than hopeful memories of what could have been.

The blood of innocent lives cries out from the ground, and only I can hear them. Grief follows wherever I go.

I am the last priest.

~~~~~~~

Rain pours from the shrouded sky as I tread through the dying lands of Ashenvale. Each step brings with it more cries and pleas for mercy, so I proceed slowly.

My throbbing head can’t take much more. The voices are many and weigh heavily upon my heart.

I’m a priest. I should have saved them. Why couldn’t I save them? Just as the dead pose their questions, my own beg to be answered.

I raise a hand to heal myself but it flickers weakly.

Leaning my back against a tree brings a fresh wave of voices. I can do nothing but crumble to the ground amidst the roots. My staff falls to my side as I rush to cover my ears, but it doesn’t stop the voices. They only get louder.

A curse escapes my lips. Will this ever end? I wonder. Or am I doomed to die from insanity?

Thankfully, the roar of voices dims. I drop my hands to my sides.

My legs and arms feel like thousands of gold bricks. My neck is sore from the burden of my head, which I cannot lift anymore. I’m finding the same is true of my eyelids. All of a sudden, it’s hard to keep them open.

Black begins to cloud my senses.

No! I must keep going! my mind screams. My arm flinches like that of a dying animal’s when I attempt to move. It’s the last thing I feel as everything disappears.

~~~~~~~

He’d heard it. Something had moved. Tika’s ears perked up, meaning she’d heard it too. Gripping the bow tighter, Evick tugged at the arrow and they both continued their silent creep through the trees. The first sign of food would be theirs at long last.

Another decaying body crossed their path. Tika sniffed it for life, but snorted to let Evick know there was none. No matter how hungry we get, we will never stoop to eating another person, dead or not, Evick vowed again at the sight, even as his stomach groaned. He urged Tika forward with a jerk of his head.

More bodies could be seen ahead of them, dotting the ground. Evick realized they were nearing Silverwing Grove. The outskirts were fine, but they wouldn’t dare go into town for certain that the Lich King’s minions would be watching.

Filthy scourge, Evick thought. His jaw clenched at the thought of them and their master.

When the bodies increased in number, Evick motioned for Tika to turn back. He knew they wouldn’t find anything edible in or near that massacre.

Lowering his bow, they turned around. Tika’s ears perked up again, but Evick hadn’t heard anything. She started sniffing the air. He followed the direction she was looking and saw a body slumped against a tree.

It was female. Human. He hadn’t seen her before, not to mention she was a little out of her territory.

Tika neared, still sniffing. Then she turned to him and started whining.

This one was alive.

Evick put his bow at ease, approached, and crouched beside the girl’s still form, examining her.

Her breathing was faint, but it didn’t appear she’d been injured. At least, from what he could see, she hadn’t received any bodily harm. Evick thought it to be strange.

The pack around her waist looked empty. Tika nuzzled it, and Evick concluded there must be some food inside. He pulled Tika back so she wouldn’t wake and startle the woman.

A staff lay adjacent to her. Evick noticed a single, scarlet ribbon wrapped around it from top to bottom -the mark of a Searcher. Picking it up, he looked from it to the girl and back again.

He’d only heard tales of Searchers. Of how they vowed to do what was right and good in every way. Sometimes it seemed almost unrealistic with all the evil in the world. Yet he’d heard stories of their kindness and sacrifice to help even their enemies throughout his travels.

Evick had always just assumed those that had spoken of them had been wrong -merely weaving tales- but here was his proof. Before him was a Searcher herself. Unless she’d stolen it from another’s remains, which was unlikely considering it was the only valuable thing she had in her possession.

Evick stood with staff still in hand. Should he get her to safety? Or should he just leave her here? The Lich’s minions would surely find her.

A twinge tugged at his heart at the thought of leaving her to face assured torture and death. Did she deserve it? No, no one deserved such horrors! But, why did he care? She was one of them -an Alliance. His people had been fighting against them for as long as he could remember. Sure, they were all dead or had fled, but did that change things? He was still a Horde.

Evick stood and released a high pitched whistle through his teeth for Tika -something only she would hear. Then, Evick leaned the staff against the tree and turned to leave. He wouldn’t deny her her only means of defense at least.

But Evick couldn’t get his gut to stop clenching or his body to move any farther.

Tika appeared at his side and looked up at him with those knowing eyes. She knew him better than anyone, even himself at times. The corner of his mouth twitched and she whimpered, looking back at the human girl.

Evick turned just as the sun peeked through the gray sky to illuminate her staff.

The ribbon glistened.

Evick released a deep sigh. I have no doubt this girl would do the same for me if I was in danger. Enemy or not, that’s what she’s lived for. He looked to Tika to try and talk him out of it, but her catlike features only smiled. Besides, what did he care about the Horde?

Throwing his bow across his back, Evick retrieved the staff and secured it in the same place. Then, gently, Evick lifted the human from the ground. She squirmed but nestled against his chest and relaxed again. He paused at her warmth and waited for her breathing to steady before moving.

Tika led the way to the cave. Eating would have to wait for a little while longer. His stomach growled at the thought, and Evick hoped he wouldn’t regret this.

~~~~~~~

Crackling is the first thing I hear. Paired with the occasional pop and hiss and the warmth upon the side of my face, a fire is my best guess. I open my eyes. Blinking for them to adjust, I witness the flickering images of the game of hide-and-seek the shadows play on the rocky ceiling above me.

I turn my head to see more of my surroundings. To my left is a small fire. By the dome shape of the rocks, it appears I’m in a cave.

My head swims. I move one of the hands folded across my chest to rub it and send a spark of healing through the tips of my fingers. The nausea vanishes.

Slowly, I sit up.

I breathe deeply at the motion. Bending my straight legs to aid me, I grab on to them -my weakness still evident.

Thankfully, there are no voices nearby to greet me.

Once all feels calm in this new position, I look around some more. There is a skinning rack on the opposite side of the cave.

But something isn’t right. The last thing I remember is falling asleep against a tree. Nothing concerning a cave, a fire, and a skinning rack.

What am I doing here? More importantly, how did I get here?

Glancing to my right, I find my bag and my staff leaning against the wall. I pick up my bag and rummage through it. All my food is still here. My stomach growls at the sight, so I pull out a loaf of bread and tear off a piece.

I shift to face the fire as I take a bite.

I watch the dancing flames and begin to feel peaceful. It reminds me of my dream.

It was strange. I’d actually felt true peace. Nothing close to what I feel now -this is only a small glimmer of what it was like. But, it was real.

The Lich King had been defeated. The alliance with the Horde had proven useful and it saved the world from his deadly rule. I could feel my body sitting up taller as I recalled it.

I turn to the entrance of the cave and witness the darkness that still shadows the land. My shoulders slouch. Who was I kidding? Nothing had changed. There was never an alliance with the Horde, and the Lich King was still in control. It was all a dream to torment me some more.

I’m still alone. The thought snuffed out my candle of peace. I wept between my knees.

Sniffling, I wipe my eyes on my soiled sleeve. That had felt good. It had been a while since I was able to cry in solitude.

The cave seems darker to me than before, but the fire is still just as strong.

Movement at the entrance makes me jump. A two-legged figure stands tall. I blink frantically, trying to see their features and make out who it might be. Then I wondered how long they’ve been there.

Another figure appears. This one is some sort of creature. Four legged. A pet? It is the first to approach.

When it nears the light, it’s feline face comes into view. It’s head hangs low and it’s ears droop. It’s long, striped tail is tucked between its hind legs. Almost within reach, it grovels, crawling the rest of the way on it’s belly.

A smile tugs at the corner of my mouth. Either this cat is trying to be cautious and not seem threatening to me, or it craves the hunk of bread still in my hand. Somehow, I feel it’s both.

It stops beside me and looks up at me with a pair of gentle golden eyes. I hold up my empty hand. It’s soft, warm nose brushes my fingers as it smells. Then, it lowers it’s head to it’s front paws. Tentatively, I place my hand on it’s head and stroke it’s silky mane.

I can feel the creature begin to purr, and my smile can’t contain itself any longer. Under it’s spell now, I give it the rest of the bread in my hand. It had won me over.

Looking up, I find the other figure standing by the fire. The solemn glare of a male Blood Elf watches me.

My smile fades, and I shrink back. The deep-seeded fear I feel spreading through every inch of my body makes my heart pound faster.

He looks at me for a moment longer and then crouches to lay a log on the fire.

It dawns on me that if they had intended to harm me, surely they would have done so by now. My heart steadies. But they have not. In fact, it appears they are helping me.

He leans his bow and quiver against the cave wall and then slumps against it. As I watch him, I hear a growl. He places a hand to his stomach and wearily closes his eyes.

I grab my bag and pull out the bread. Slowly, I stand up and move his way. He examines my every move, especially what I carry in my hand.

Kneeling at his side, I tear off a huge chunk and hold it out to him. He eyes it hungrily, but doesn’t move to receive it.

“Take it,” I say with clumsy Thalassian.

I can see the surprise spread across his face. He accepts it and rips into it hungrily.

I pull back to my place by the fire. Tearing off another hunk, I toss it to the cat, then munch on the piece that is left.

“Tika,” the Blood Elf says, pointing to the cat. His rich Thalassian puts mine to shame. “Tika.”

I look at the cat and repeat. She straightens and her ears stand tall. A low rumble sounds in her throat. It must be her name.

I grin at the elf. He points to himself and says, “Evick.”

I have a rougher time with this pronunciation. “E-Evi-Evick. Evick.”

The corner of his mouth lifts with approval and amusement.

I lay a hand to my chest and give my name. Charlisse. I had learned that in Thalassian it meant healer -how appropriate. Yet, I wasn’t worthy of it.

Evick looks at me strangely. My thoughts must have shown in my features.

“You are a Seeker?” he asks. The word for Seeker is the same word for Searcher in his language, but I understand.

“Yes, I am.”

Something flickers in his eyes. Trust, perhaps? Or certainty? If I tried to explain it, he resembles what a child might look like when told that his favorite fairy tale is true after all.

“Where are we?” I ask to veer the subject away from me.

“A cave in the center of Ashenvale,” Evick says without hesitating.

I look about the room and find the skinning rack again. There are a few bags nearby that I hadn’t seen before. “Do you live here?”

Evick nods.

I raise an eyebrow. “Why?”

He doesn’t respond immediately, but looks contemplative. Looking down, he toys with his bread.

I wait.

“No one knows about this cave. It’s not charted on any map,” he says. “Figured this would be the least likely place for anyone to find me. The Lich included.”

“What about your family? Do the Horde know where you are?”

Evick’s brow furrows. “Don’t have a family. And what family I thought I had in the Horde, I couldn’t have been more wrong about.” Evick’s brow furrows.

I can feel my eyes open wide in surprise. “Wh-why? That’s not exactly something you hear every day.”

The muscles in his jaw flex before he replies, “When they made a decision without thinking of anyone else but themselves and their pride, I knew I couldn’t be a part of them any longer.” He still wouldn’t make eye contact with me.

“What decision was that?” I ask, timidly. By his reactions, I don’t want to overstep my bounds.

Evick leans forward. His light green eyes, gentle yet smoldering with renewed zeal, hold mine. “They couldn’t put aside past issues with your kind to save the innocent lives of the women and children of ours.” His Thalassian fluctuates with indignation.

My jaw drops.

The alliance! This was about the alliance we’d petitioned for with the Horde. I can’t believe it. Evick had been against their decision.

Something inside stirs. I feel my insides awakening. It’s like I’m being reborn.

And my dream. What if it hadn’t been a dream from the past but a dream of the future? What if it had told me of this very meeting and what would come of it?

My heart blazes with rediscovered purpose. I can feel my power rush through me again. My hope returns and joy is not far behind.

“Evick,” I begin, practically gasping for air. “What if I told you that this meeting was not by chance?”

I receive the strange look I expected.

“Just hear me out. What if you and I have survived and have been united for a reason? It seems harder to think otherwise, doesn’t it?”

“I don’t follow you.” His brow is still raised. He probably thinks I’m a lunatic. If I didn’t know what I do, I’d probably think the same thing.

“I had a dream last night,” the Thalassian flows like water from my lips. “A dream that showed me a different ending than the one we are living in now. There was an alliance, and the Lich was defeated. And peace... There was peace throughout the land.”

Evick glances to the entrance.

“And then I awoke to you. Surely, that can’t be coincidence!” I finish.

He doesn’t respond. Tika still sleeps by my side. I can feel the warmth rising from her body as her form rises and falls.

“You can’t possibly think that the two of us can defeat the Lich King when whole legions have gone against him and failed?” Evick asks flatly, drawing my attention back to him.

I open my mouth, but can’t say a word. He’s right. What I was saying was nothing short of suicide. I can feel my flame begin to wane.

“Never mind. Forget I said anything.” I lay on my back, uncertainty creeping over me again. “Let’s get some sleep.”

Evick may not know what I have seen, but I do. It was real. He would just have to see for himself. We both would.

~~~~~~~

Evick woke with a bitter feeling inside. He hadn’t slept well. By the look of it, he hadn’t slept long either. It was barely dusk.

He wanted to believe what Charlisse said. He did. But, in the face of the impossible, it was hard. Sure, he hadn’t seen this dream of hers for himself, but what difference did it make? Reality was reality, and there was no way that two people could do something that hundreds of thousands hadn’t been able to accomplish.

Evick sat up, laid his arms over his knees, and huffed with frustration.

He turned to Charlisse, who’s back was to him. Tika still laid beside her.

How do I know I can even trust her? he thought, attempting to reason the issue away.

He worked it over for a few moments and immediately did away with the thought. Evick knew he could. Tika knew, too. There was no solid ground for such a ridiculous notion.

So, okay, he began, resting his forehead on his palms. Since I’ve obviously already examined how wrong and preposterous she might be, what about the other side of it? Could she be right? And, if so, how would I know?

Evick jumped when Tika pressed her plush head into his arm. He rubbed it and she curled up next to him.

The fire crackled dimly as his mind spun.

Then, Evick tensed. Tika did the same, her ears on full alert. Something had changed.

A low buzzing sounded in Evick’s ears. It disappeared at the sound of a voice -low and smooth, like honey, but dark and mysterious. “Where once was lost, it now is found.”

Tika stood and growled. She could hear it too.

Evick gained full height and retrieved his bow and quiver. Stringing an arrow, he inched toward the entrance.

“You thought you could hide from me, didn’t you?” The voice was unmistakable now. It was the Lich King.

Evick’s heart raced.

The darkness outside had lifted enough for the fog to be seen, but nothing else was visible. The fog was dense, and Evick could barely see the grass he stepped on upon exiting the cave.

“I see you,” the Lich teased.

Evick stopped, Tika snarling at his side. The feeling of doom was enough to topple someone, but Evick stood his ground. Listening. Waiting.

A faint clinking echoed nearby. Evick closed his eyes to listen.

More sounds joined in. The sounds of starving ghouls with their every move a plea for more to feast on to satisfy their eternal hunger. The hushed, airy passing of phantoms over the ground, neither touching nor moving without it. There was the clattering of the bones of undead and much more, though the rest was hard to decipher.

What Evick knew for certain was the Lich was not alone.

But where was he?

It sounded like he approached from the south, but with all the other noises, it was hard to pinpoint it -one sound seemed to come from all over. And the visibility issue wasn’t helping. Evick had nothing to lock on to.

All movement ceased. Evick’s eyes flew open and darted about for any signs.

The wind picked up and the fog stirred. Slowly, things became visible. The fog lifted from the ground; trees spotting the glade appeared, still hazy. Somehow, the Shady Nook offeredits fading beauty as strength and comfort.

Whatever happens... Evick solidified.

Loud steps, paired with the moaning of armor, announced movement again. A form appeared in the fog ahead, tall and dark. Evick lifted his bow as the Lich King broke through the fog and stopped.

The Lich released a sadistic chuckle. “Now do you see me?” he whispered.

Tika fidgeted, and Evick placed a hand on her head to calm her.

“What do you want, Lich?” Evick asked in poor Common language.

“I want the girl. And I want your head on a stake, but that’s irrelevant for now. Where is she?”

“Not here,” Evick lied. The image of her sleep being interrupted by this monster made his blood boil. “What could you possibly want with her?”

The Lich King moved unnaturally, bending his head to the side and twisting one of his legs inward then back to normal. “That’s my business. Now, where is she?”

“As I’ve told you already, she’s not here.” The words still came slowly for Evick.

“Do you honestly consider me to be so ignorant? I sense her warmth inside. I can kill her now if I choose.”

“You lie.”

“Do I?” the Lich challenged.

Evick didn’t respond but remained emotionless. He knew he was lying. If the Lich was powerful enough to kill them just like that, neither of them would be here right now. He may be able to get into people’s heads, but he couldn’t accomplish much more than that without help.

“You don’t know who you’re toying with, boy,” the Lich said, angrily, as if reading his thoughts.

He raised an arm and the wind increased. It blew clear the fog and there, behind him, stood an army of death as far as the eye could see. Evick had his proof concerning the Lich King and the extent of his power.

Everything Evick had heard was there and then some. There were also tainted races, glowing with red toxin that controlled them like puppets. Abominations, large and towering, wielded balls and chains in both hands. Their distorted features warped with pleasure at the sight of their intended prey. And flaming riders on ghostly chargers blazed with vengeance, allowing fire to spread to the surrounding trees.

All eyes were on him. Evick held his position.

The Lich King raised his massive sword, which began to glow. “Last chance. Give me the priest, and I may spare your life.”

Evick stared at him, silent. He had a notion to laugh at the ridiculous offer, but kept it to himself.

Tika was twitching and hissing at the threat to her master. Evick turned and whistled for her to settle, which she did.

He returned his gaze in time to see a blue ball of ice rushing toward him. Evick closed his eyes for the impact, but it never came. A shield surrounded him and Tika when he opened his eyes again. He turned to see Charlisse moving out of the cave with staff in hand. She positioned herself on the other side of Evick and glared at the Lich King.

His army shuffled impatiently at her appearance, and the Lich signaled with one hand for them to stand down.

“It’s just like you to attempt to kill someone when their back is turned,” Charlisse said. “True sign of a coward.”

“You’d do well to hold your tongue, priest,” the Lich King responded, tensing in his place.

“Or what? You’ll kill me when I’m not looking? If I die by a coward, then so be it, but that makes you no less than a coward.”

The Lich clenched his fists, anger seeping from him like blood.

“What do you want, you sorry excuse for a villain?” Charlisse asked brazenly.

Evick turned to her, eyes wide. Is she mad? She winked in reply. No, she must only have a death wish.

Here they were. Evick realized this agreed with what she’d told him -that they would fight together against the Lich King. Evick knew inside she was right, but she’d spoken of peace. How could they defeat the Lich and his army? It was one thing to fight against him, but quite another to actually win the battle.

The Lich King charged another attack. Evick raised his bow and aimed for his head. Charlisse lifted her arms, eyes to the heavens in submission and prayer. She glowed with light but something more.

The Lich released his attack, which careened toward them. Charlisse opened her eyes and released a golden fire. They collided.

Charlisse stood panting as the ice and fire consumed each other and exploded into shimmering raindrops that refreshed them as it showered them in a cool blanket.

“You really didn’t think I was much of a threat, did you, Lich? Being inside my head told you that I could hear and feel the dead crying out to me. All the dead you have produced.” Charlisse gasped for air. “And it kept me at bay. You knew it would. All those voices, weighing me down with every step I took. So you thought it would slowly drive me insane and kill me all on it’s own. The best way to torture someone is always just inside their head.

“But, what you didn’t think to examine was how one unsuspecting life could make a choice and decide to do what was right even in the face of so much wrong. And how that choice would change everything.” Charlisse stood taller, then reached out for Evick’s hand.

He supplied it and could instantly feel the life charging through him. Evick felt more alive than he ever had. He was no longer hungry, alone, hopeless, or afraid. Evick felt stronger than he had for some time.

Charlisse smiled at him.

“That was your down fall, Lich. And now it’s going to cost you,” she said without turning from Evick.

Charlisse closed her eyes and began to sing. A song so sweet and gentle, so full of life and love, it caused the trees around them to stand up taller and the sun to burst through the clouds with more radiance than ever before witnessed. It illuminated the Lich King -something he didn’t seem to like.

Evick watched the Lich writhe. His limbs contorted and twisted like some sort of machine losing control. His army began to back away as he dropped to his knees.

Charlisse began to pulse. Small rings of gold that grew larger and larger until they were enveloping the army even as they tried to flee. Skeletons separated and dropped to the ground in piles of bones. The flaming riders were quenched and vanished. Abominations fell apart and
crumpled to the ground, and the phantoms disappeared in dark puffs.

The Lich King yelled in pain as he clawed the ground.

Charlisse opened her eyes and began to move closer to the Lich, taking Evick with her. Things happened around them as they moved. Plants forced through the dirt and grew. Some even blossomed. Trees produced fruit again as well as flowers with colors more vibrant than in years past. Animals came out from their hiding places to race about without fear.

Life was returning. Evick laughed at the irony of it.

They stopped before the Lich King and the pulsing ceased. He gasped.

“Please,” the Lich King pleaded with hoarse vocals.

“You were once a mighty warrior for good, truth, and justice, Arthas. I’ve been commanded to call you by your real name now for no more shall you be the Lich King. No more shall you rule darkness and death,” Charlisse said.

“But, that is who I am,” he said calmly and hopelessly. “There are no second chances for monsters like me.”

“That is not true. I knew your father. He was a man of second chances, all of which he wanted to give to you. But you never accepted them. Just as you were called by the Lich King and chose to answer, you chose to ignore forgiveness and love and, most of all, truth. But, no more.”

Charlisse raised Evick’s hand and laid it on Arthas’ head, covering it with her own. The enchanted helm vanished and the pale face of Arthas became seen. He hung it, even as his white
hair stained brown from root to tip.

“No. No more shame for you, Arthas. You are a new creation. All is forgiven, but the choice is still before you. Will you accept forgiveness and do what is right? There is much in store for you if you do. Things even greater than promised to you by the Lich King.”

Arthas could only nod. The enchanted breastplate vanished and the rest of his armor dropped to the ground and shriveled.

Evick removed his hand when Charlisse did, and Arthas stood. His skin was a healthy shade again, and his eyes were no longer gray but a shocking blue. Arthas looked from his hands to the rest of his restored self. And he smiled.

“I will,” he agreed verbally this time. “With all that is in me, I will.”

Evick found himself smiling back, and turned to see Charlisse doing the same.

“Now you are charged with righting your wrongs and ruling as True King this time, Arthas. A task I know you will fulfill without fail.” Charlisse then turned to Evick and spoke in Thalassian. “And there will no longer be a wall between our people, Evick. We will help you restart and rebuild the Horde, but there will be peace and unity between you and the Alliance.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Let it be as you say,” Evick replied.

~~~~~~~

I’d like to tell you that all went perfectly from that point on, but that would be a lie. We managed to rebuild both the Alliance and the Horde, and Arthas and Evick were set in place as the United Kings of what is now called Harmitia. I was also able to resurrect the murdered healers who then helped me resurrect all others. Things were looking good, and Arthas was fulfilling his promise to undo what he’d done.

But, if I left it there, it wouldn’t be true to life.

Arthas struggled with the voice of the Lich King for as long as he ruled, which was to be expected. It made him a stronger King in fighting against it daily though. And he did, succeeding
every time.

There was also an incident in the Horde concerning King Evick. Someone called him a softy, condemning his good nature, and Tika attacked them for it. But no one died, and, more importantly, no one said another word about the King from that point forward with the tigress Tika around.

As for me, I was named High Priestess, which, if you ask me, is going a bit too far. After that day, something left me. I was still the same person I had always been, but hearing about all I had said and done stunned me.. However, it is what it is. Or, in this case, was what it was.

Now, I oversee all other healers and keep order and peace throughout the land. And Arthas, Evick and I are held in very high regard. What happened on that day is told around the world. Flattering, I know, but it gets the truth to be known.

So, yes, things really are very good. We all have our ups and downs, and I’m sure forever will. But we get through them, learn from them, and move on.

Most importantly, we are all more joyful. Even Arthas who from time to time is caught dancing in the streets with the biggest smile upon his face.

The son has returned home. His father would be so proud.

What is the overlying theme for this compilation of the past? Well, isn’t it obvious? Good will always triumph over evil in the end.

Always.

John and Kate, Concerning Your 8...

2009-06-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't been big into the series and lives of John and Kate Plus Eight, but I've heard about them off an on and saw Kate on the 700 Club not long ago. However, recently, I have heard about their upcoming divorce, and it grieves me. Not for John and Kate, but for their eight.

I'm the child of divorced parents. One of three in fact. At first glance, you might think "well hey, she hasn't turned out too bad." Yes, perhaps. But that's been because of the unconditional love of Jesus Christ. If you knew my heart, mind, and life -everything not visible to the naked eye- you would know that I've been through things that I wish I never had been. Things I'm ashamed to speak of or even remember. Things that have served to only tear me into smaller pieces.

And it all started with a divorce. One simple little decision that I had no control over (free will, you know?). Honestly, I can say it all stemmed from that very occurrence.

But, I'm getting too far ahead of myself. I feel I should explain... From one kid who's been there and done that to you parents out there considering carrying through on this thing called divorce.

What exactly happens when two parents split? Most people think that their actions are their own and they don't effect anyone else but themselves. But this isn't true, especially when it comes to something as serious as divorce.

Take it from me. In the mind of a growing child, it's more like they are losing half of themselves. Suddenly they are being pulled two different directions to choose one of two sides (mom's or dad's). The stress of that alone is destructive.

Sure, it's not like you're leaving the country, never to see or speak to them again for the rest of their lives. And there are weekends and every other Wednesday nights to spend quality time with them. Certainly that must give you some props?

Not hardly. You're still gone. You're not there when they really need you most. They don't have you to stop them from doing something stupid because, after all, who can they trust if their own parents can't even trust each other enough to preserve their marriage?

The example you are setting for them comes into play next... Divorce is okay! You can't get along with each other? Don't even worry about trying! Get a divorce. It's the fast, easy way to serve the one and only YOU.

But that's not the only thing they will learn! How about talking things through? Working out problems and differences? If you can give up so easily on something like the life-long commitment of marriage, why shouldn't they? Heck, why should they even discuss things with their parents? After all, neither of them did a very good job at that. And their adults.

Where will that get them in life? Unhappy and selfish, just like you. If you're lucky, which you no doubt will be, your kids will give up on even their hopes and dreams for the future. Their self image will wear thin until breaking point. They'll look to find themselves in their friends and members of the opposite gender and who knows what else when, all along, you could have saved them all the heart ache and disappointment and not to mention wasted time.

STOP! Before you sign that paper, think about it from a different perspective. Your kids. Will this benefit them at all? Will it harm them at all?

If all you can think about with divorce on the table is yourself, perhaps it would do you good to think of the others involved.

John and Kate, I don't expect you will ever read this but if by God's Grace you do, please please PLEASE rethink this. I have a perfect reason for you not to...

For those eight precious little ones that love you and call you mom and dad. Who look up to you even when they are smarting off to you. Who melt into you for hugs and light with pride and determination when you make note of them and tell them they've done a fantastic job. For your girls, who will need their father more than ever when they are grown, and for your boys, who will rely on their mother in due course -to show them what to look for in a spouse and how a happy home is run where BOTH parents are working together.

Gosselins, you are in my prayers. God protect the next generation you were blessed with to mold and shape into great men and women.

~L. Pierce

Joker in a Suit

2009-06-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

I’m a sincere person. I want people to trust me when I say something just as much as I want to trust them when they say something in return. But, what if they say something that’s only meant as a joke, yet I can’t tell the difference? What then?

Well, then I’m in a bit of a pickle. If it’s concerning something important or major, I will react to what they say because I have no idea they mean it as a jest until afterward when they inform me.

This drives me CRAZY!!!!!!!

Honestly, you can call it a joke all you want but, in reality, you’re lying. “I’m joking” is just an excuse for your lie. How then do you expect me to take anything you say seriously?

I’m reminded of the story of The Boy Who Cried Wolf. After a while, people stop listening to you when you say things. Then what happens when you have something important to say? What if it’s a warning? People will suffer for your foolishness. Will it be funny then?

Stop the joking around. Be serious. Be honest. Please, don’t be a joker in a suit.

Psalms 34:12+13, “Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.”

~L. Pierce

Simply Inspirational

2009-06-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

As I write today, I’m having a hard time focusing on my writing. I’m in one of those ruts. I’ve been doing great up until this point, but now I sit before my work and just stare. Lol It’s very unproductive.

This got me thinking about inspiration. I realized that I could use some inspiration to help me write. The same is true of anything else I do. I’ve seen this when it comes to my music as well. In fact, recently I started taking lessons again DUE to a new inspiration. And yesterday, I was given another musical muse from someone I’ve barely even known.

Then I had a thought. It seems reasonable that I would stay with and in something longer the more I have motivation in the mix. Right? Well, yeah!

So, I’ve picked up a book or two, started actually reading the magazines and such in my possession, and have taken to write a blog (the one you now see before you). Just to get my creative juices flowing again. And I can already feel it working!

We all need inspiration to keep us going. This is why it’s important for parents to give compliments to their kids. It helps to build them up and inspire them. Tell them they can do anything and, by golly, they will! Tell me I can change the world, and I’ll try everything in my power to do so.

Make it a point to frequently place inspiration in your path or to do so for someone else. Add a little fuel to the fire. There’s no such thing as too much inspiration.

Happy June to you all!
~L. Pierce

Two Months! AHHHHH!

2009-05-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

*squeal*

I can’t believe it’s boiled down to two months already. Time is flying, and I’m so excited!!! FASTER FASTER!! lol

Why the childish thrill? Well, the week of July 20th, I’ll be taking another trip. This time to a conference in Kentucky -Creation College 3. But it’s the getting there that’s going to make this adventure twice as fun.

Road trip!!

I’ll be going with a dear friend of mine who is also attending the conference. We plan to see new sights, learn new things, and make some incredible memories.

That week, Lord willing (if I have internet), I will try and post frequently to share some highlights of what is going on and all that I’m learning. So, stay tuned!

To learn more about the conference, visit http://www.answersingenesis.org/events/creation-college-3.

Who knows, maybe I’ll see some of you there! :D

~L. Pierce

They're All Gone!!!

2009-05-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

Being a writer is nothing new. There are hundreds of thousands -probably even millions- of authors in the world today, and that doesn’t even include those that love to write and have yet to be published.

With all those people already writing and being heard, who’s to say that they haven’t taken all the good ideas already? What if my ideas aren’t as unique as I may think?

I say no, with a very warm chuckle. Why?

We are each so unique in every way. Like snow flakes, no two people are exactly the same. Likewise, what we write will be as well. The ideas we envision in our minds, while they may come close to something we’ve read or seen or experienced before, will not be the same.

Let me give you an example. My writing partner and I do an exercise to keep our creative juices flowing. We’ll give each other a sentence or two of a theme off the top of our heads and then we each have to write for a certain period of time and let our minds run wild concerning where that sentence will lead us.

Last time, this was the sentence I sent her... The theme was modern/thriller:

My cell phone sounded from the passengers seat. With one hand on the steering wheel, I snatched it up and accepted the text message...

Now, when I typed that up, my mind went immediately to the phone text being from the antagonist that is threatening her by holding someone she loves hostage. But, my writing partner gave it a completely opposite perspective. She wrote that the text was from her boss, who appeared to be someone in the police department. The protagonist had been on a case looking for a missing girl who had just been found. The text was to let her know they’d found her and to come right away.

Same beginning, but after that everything else was like day and night. And rightly so! My partner and I are two different people.

This is one of the many things I love about writing. There is no right or wrong way to tell a story. It’s purely at the discretion of your imagination.

Rest in knowing that your uniqueness -everything that makes you who you are- will aid you in writing something that no one else has.

I thank God for this every day. Without our differences, we would be nothing more than robots. If that were the case, I doubt there would be such a thing as writing and that pains me to think about! Unique is just another way of saying that we are truly “fearfully and wonderfully made” by an awesome Creator!

~L. Pierce

Vacations Away!

2009-05-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

Ah, the time is here! Vacations are being planned and set out upon. The weather is beautiful, and the tourists are few. I’ve discovered that it’s the perfect time for a vacation.

If you’ve never been to Cape May, NJ, this time of year is perfect. Not too hot, but not too cold. The water is still too chilly for a swim, but the sights well make up for it. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see it rain. Maybe a rainbow will show up and streak its way across the sky with its lucid colors.

We witnessed this very sight. The rainbow not only split the sky in half but separated the light from the dark. It was quite a spectacle! One of the many things I will never forget. God’s promise to Abraham so long ago is still with us. No leprechauns or pots of gold. No, something far greater than that. The love of God.

We took the ferry up and back from Lewes to Cape May and that in itself was so pleasant. The wind on your face. The sea air in your nostrils. I felt like I was Captain of the pirate ship Freedom. It was perfect research for a book I’m working on right now that happens to involve pirates. Nothing compares to first hand experiences when you’re writing. God is so good!

The ironic thing is that I live near the beach, but went to the beach for my vacation. Go ahead, you can chuckle and wonder what we were thinking. Trust me, I’m doing the same. Oh, but it was SO worth it! We’ve seen our beach a million and a half times, goodness knows. This was new territory to explore. I was enthralled and captivated both body and soul.

We didn’t get to see much of the history of Cape May (something we’ll have to discover on our next excursion), but I could feel it everywhere I went. To me, there is no greater high, aside from being in Christ, than seeing everything and everyone around you and knowing there is a story there. Something hidden to uncover like buried treasure.

Where will you be Vacationing this year? Your own backyard? Perhaps Jamaica? (If so, can you take me along? lol *wink*) Wherever you go, be sure to take God along. He makes things so amazing.

Isaiah 45:2, “I will go before you and will level the mountains; I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron...”

Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to witness Your Glory and for all the precious memories made while doing so.

I’ve missed you all! Hope you have a blessed week. :)

~L. Pierce

Next Posting--- They’re All Gone!

Eating and the Bible: A Closer Look

2009-05-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

This issue I’ve been discussing in my last few posts has been much deliberated and debated by many, especially where the Bible is concerned. Some would say the Bible gives permission for such things as eating what we now know as pure filth.

The main thing to notice, however, is that in order to do so and to agree with such a thing, one must ignore all the facts laid out before them. Not only the love of a caring Father that wishes to protect us, but the truth of the matter, such as we’ve found with the pig. Why would God have given us permission now to change it, when clearly the pig itself has not changed?

There are a few places in the Bible that it is said tell us this. I would like to examine two of them with a perspective that follows along with all that we have learned up until this point, if I may.

I wish to make things quite clear however, that I am by no means saying that I know everything or that my way goes. I will be the first one to tell you that I am not perfect, and it is greatly possible that I over looked something in the course of my research. But, God's Word is perfect. All I hope to do is offer some things to consider -some options to weigh amongst the many. My desire for this post is to help aid you in making a final decision.

Two of the major ones I’ve come across are Mark 7:14-23 and Acts 10:9-16. (for the sake of space, I will not provide the verses in their entirety.)

*Mark 7:14-23

Let’s go back to the beginning of the chapter... I truly believe that context is so important when it comes to the Bible. (Read http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/am/v2/n4/unlocking-scripture on context.) And this instance proves it.

Read verses 1-13. What do you find?

The Pharisees accused the disciples of not washing their hands before they ate. This is the main issue concerning these verses, not the food they were eating.

Also, what is it that Jesus talks about as being the real source of uncleanliness? The heart. Jesus is saying that all that we take in (be it with our eyes, ears, mouth, etc.) does not make us unclean and evil (notice the order -unclean leading to evil). The evil our hearts choose to do or follow is what makes us unclean (this is the correct order -evil leads to unclean). We are unclean by our evil, or sin, not evil by our unclean (in this case, the dirt we ingest). Boy, is that a brain twister. Did you follow all that? ;)

Otherwise, every poor and homeless person would be considered evil. And even thensome! I know some American homes and families that are not exactly the cleanest people even though they have the capacity to be. Does that sound right to call them evil for it? Goodness, no.

See, what the Pharisees were doing here was making it seem like the dirt on our hands is what makes us evil or 'unclean.' The Greek word used here for unclean even means defiled. But that is not so. Verse 18+19 (before the parentheses.. I'll get there in a moment) agree with this as well. It is saying that it does not go into the heart, where evil starts, so it cannot be the cause. It goes into the stomach and out of the body. Again, this is not talking about food because food doesn't go into our heart either. It's talking about the dirt on the disciples unwashed hands.

It seems odd to me for the parentheses to be here then. Reading it plainly, it doesn’t even fit with all that is happening and being said. The only thing you could peg on this verse is concerning washing hands. So, should the parentheses really be there?

I’ve read that in the original Greek the parentheses does not exist.

And check out the KJV version (this, I’ve read as well, is the closest to the original Greek) -http://www.ibsstl.org/bible/verse/index.php?q=Mark+7%3A14-23&submit=Lookup+Verse&niv=yes&kjv=yes&display_option=columns&v_mode=on&t_mode=on. It explains things much differently and not to mention has NO parentheses saying anything of this sort.

I think it’s safe to say that this is not talking about food here at all. In fact, the word food is not mentioned, say for once in verse 2 to tell us what the disciples were doing -"eating food..." That's it.

Jesus was merely talking about how our digestion separates the impurities -like dirt from our hands- in the stomach. This has been proven scientifically, has it not? This, then, agrees with the Bible. But, saying that all food is okay to eat by this section, does not.

This makes even more sense as we go on to the next set of verses...

*Acts 10:9-16.

Mark is before Acts not only in book but time period as well. From what we can conclude about Acts, the issue of food is still there. Meaning, the passage in Mark we just read did not do what those claim it did. It did not make all foods clean to be eaten. Read it, and you’ll see.

Peter makes it very clear that he has still followed the food laws and would never break them. If this was changed back in Mark, why would he have needed to?

Now, onto the verses... As I’m sure your Bible makes aware, this chapter is actually three parts, not just one. I will abbreviate it for you.

Verses 1-8 tells us of God coming to Cornelius and telling him to send for Peter, which he does.
Verses 9-23 tells us of God coming to Peter, before the men sent for him arrived.
Verses 23-48 tells us of Peter’s visit with Cornelius.

The last set of verses is especially important. There we learn that Cornelius was a Gentile. At that time, Jews and Gentiles did not associate with each other. It was law (verse 27). However, in verses 1-8, Cornelius is described as a “devout and God-fearing man.”

This is the cause for all that was said in God’s vision to Peter. God was giving Peter permission to go to a Gentile, not that he could eat whatever he pleased. Peter even says this when he gets to Cornelius’ House in verses 27-29.

How do I know this for certain? You’re probably thinking, the vision did in fact include food, did it not?

Yes, it did. But, think about this...

Up until this point, Peter and those like him all followed the food laws as he makes clear in verse 14. Back then, it was a big deal, hence why Peter reacted the way he did to the vision.

Now, if God had really told him that all food was now clean to be eaten, that would have been MAJOR news for the Jews. I mean, we are talking life changing here! Wouldn’t Peter have wanted to spread it? And fast?

But, he didn’t. As we read in verse 28, he links it to the issue between the Jews and the Gentiles. Nothing more.

In conclusion then, it appears that the Bible cannot be used to support this claim that we are free to eat anything we want.

I have seen the reasons why first hand in fact. My father left and divorced my mom, not only turning his back on God but on everything -his entire way of life, which included food. Since then, he has eaten and done anything he pleased.

Well, just recently, he had his Appendix removed. The doctors said it was so toxic that if he didn’t get it taken out, when it burst (not IF it burst), the mess would be horrible. Now my father is without his Appendix, which I have read is a big part of the immune system. And I have no doubt that the reason it got to be so toxic was because of what he ate -it was much more than pork, too.

Reason for not eating what the Bible says to stay away from? The evidence is hard to ignore.

WDYT?

~L. Pierce

Pigalicious

2009-04-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

“And the pig, though it has a split hoof completely divided, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.” Leviticus 11:7

From the Ten Commandments, we go through the set up of the tabernacle and the sacrificial laws, then the very next laws we see are concerning food and cleanliness -Leviticus 11-15 +17.

From the previous posting, we know that God has reasons for all He he commands. Based on that then, why should we stay clean? Because it’s healthy for us. Uncleanliness is actually a good way to spawn diseases.

What about not eating the pig? The same is true.

The Bible tells us that the pig is unclean for us. Is it?

Well, ask yourself.. what is the pig? Along with all the fancy scientific names, we learn that the pig is an omnivore. This means that they eat anything, plant or animal, dead or decaying. This also includes urine, excrement, dirt, decaying animal flesh, maggots, or decaying vegetables. They will even eat the cancerous growths off other pigs or animals! And that’s just what they eat!

Something else to learn about pigs is that they carry parasites and diseases. A parasite known as Trichinella Spiralis, most commonly found in rats and pigs, is the cause of Trichinosis. If ingested, it can lead to serious issues and even death. And this is only one parasite! Pigs carry over a dozen parasites, and we haven’t even touched on the diseases -30 of which can be easily passed to humans.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” John 10:10. The pig is nothing even close to life.

Check out this site for more pig facts and details on things mentioned here and prepare to cringe (http://www.ensignmessage.com/archives/porkfacts.html).

So, can we say “unclean” is accurate then? You better believe it! You might as well eat your fill from a garbage can. That’s basically what you’re doing when you consume pork.

Now, there is an argument that comes hand in hand with this topic -refrigeration and cooking methods as means of killing the parasites in the meat.

Issue one with this is rather small and quite possibly might be insignificant to some. It’s the fact that man made those methods, and that man is fallible. Point is, you still take a chance when you eat pork even if it has been cooked and properly frozen.

Issue two has to do with toxicity. The site linked above says several things about toxicity and the pig. Here are a few:

-The meat and fat of a pig absorbs toxins like a sponge. Their meat can be 30 times more toxic than beef or venison.

-When eating beef or venison, it takes 8 to 9 hours to digest the meat so what little toxins are in the meat are slowly put into our system and can be filtered by the liver. But when pork is eaten, it takes only 4 hours to digest the meat. We thus get a much higher level of toxins within a shorter time.

-Pigs and swine are so poisonous that you can hardly kill them with strychnine or other poisons.

-The pig is so poisonous and filthy, that nature had to prepare him a sewer line or canal running down each leg with an outlet in the bottom of the foot. Out of this hole oozes pus and filth his body cannot pass into its system fast enough. Some of this pus gets into the meat of the pig.

Toxicity is not something you can get rid of by merely freezing the meat or cooking it to death. Toxic is what the pig is. It’s their physical make up. And it’s toxicity that our bodies still can’t handle like the pig can -making them the worlds most efficient garbage cans.

So, based on these facts alone, why would anyone want to put it within ten centimeters of their mouth?

Please.. I beg you. Do not ignore the truth about the pig. I pray with everything that is in me that next time you have the choice to eat it, you will decide not to take the risk. Your life is too precious to risk it. God knows this as well. That’s why He gave these rules to the Israelites to keep them from harm.

He wants to do the same for you. Please, let Him!

~L. Pierce

There are certainly far more animals than just the pig that the Bible says to stay away from. Choose one and research it and see if you can find out why God would command such a thing.

Next Posting--- Eating and the Bible: A Closer Look

Rights, Wrongs, and Reasons

2009-04-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

When it comes to right and wrong, God is very clear about the separation and distinction of both. His laws are full of do’s and dont’s. But, they’re laws. Is there a reason that we should obey them, or was God just playing, well, God?

First, I think it would be best to take a quick look and remind ourselves who God is and how he feels about us.

~Genesis 1:31. It wasn’t until after God made man that He saw everything as “very good.” We are the apple of His eye.
~Genesis 3:21; Genesis 4:15. Even after Adam and Eve had sinned, God still took care of them. He did the same to Cain after he killed Abel. That takes a lot of love and compassion. Not many of us would have done the same in His shoes.
~Exodus. Can’t forget about Moses and his mission to help God free His people. Theme? God takes care of his own.
~Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Probably the greatest example of God’s love was through His Son, Jesus. Even after all of the Old Testament, God’s love had never wavered. Let’s be honest, there was a lot of horrible stuff that happened in the Old Testament. All stuff that WE did. But, even so, we were still at the center of His attention and concern every time.

This is just a brief peek at all we can find to answer these questions. Based on this, can anyone deny the fact that God loves us and wants to take care of us? When you love someone so much, to take care and protect them comes like second nature. Think of a mother and her children.

So then, if He wishes to take care of us, it would make sense then that these rules would be for a reason. Right? Let’s take a look...

The Ten Commandments were the first laws God set in place.

Some might think that they are just the standard for being a good person and that there isn’t really anything more to them than that, but what if there is?

What happens when you kill someone? Eye for an eye. The punishment is death. But, God wants us to live, so He put the law in place to keep the Israelites and everyone from death.

What happens when you dishonor your father and mother? To do so, there are many ways. All of which are blatant, sinful acts on your part. And ALL of which have consequences.

What happens when you steal? You suffer the punishment of a thief.

What happens when you lie? Lies have a way of building and building then blowing up in your face in awful ways. They effect you and everyone around you and are a good way to ruin your life.

What happens when you commit adultery? You might not think it effects anyone but yourself, but it does. It puts your whole family in jeopardy. When you do so, there is a great chance you could lose it all and with it, your very life.

All of these are not just stupid to do for logical reasons mentioned, but they tell us of the heart of a person as well. If you can do these things without an ounce of guilt, the Bible says there is wickedness in you. Wickedness leads to death because God is good and cannot stand evil.

Psalms 5:4, “For you are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with you the wicked cannot dwell.”

But, God wants us to live. Even more so, He wants us to live with Him since sin separates us from God just as it did in the Garden of Eden. That is why He gives us rules. That is why parents give their children rules.

So, can we then say that God has reasons in saying and commanding all He does? You better believe it.

Even with something like resting on the Sabbath day there is a reason... Don’t know about anyone else, but after a long work week, I CAN'T WAIT to rest on the seventh day. Plus, it’s good for us. It helps de-stress us and prepare us for the week ahead. It’s been scientifically proven that too much stress is not healthy for our bodies.

There are reasons for everything! God is not one to throw laws at us like we are His pawns and He can do and say whatever He wants in order to make us do what He wants for His own pleasure. No! He is not Satan. He is not like some of the human kings or rulers of the past either. Far from it! To say so would go against all the Bible says about Him.

Psalms 36:5-7, “Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.”

What it comes down to then is whether or not the Bible is true, and more specifically, whether or not it tells us of who God truly is. Also, if we can so easily change one thing in the Bible, who’s to say we can’t change everything else? With the Bible, it’s all or nothing, and to change one thing you will always have to change another and another until there is nothing left to change anymore.

Who would agree with me that God’s Word is perfect as is?

To you fellow followers of Christ, saved by His Grace, can you deny God’s goodness and love in your life? If I’m right, the answer is yes, with and without the Bible. Then let’s not deny His desire to protect us and preserve our lives by whatever means necessary.

Oh, and to answer the question... Yes, the Bible is very much true! To say otherwise, you’d have to ignore all the evidence in favor of it as well as the God it speaks of. But, that is another topic for another time. :)

~L. Pierce

Key points--

1) The Bible says that God loves us and wants to take care of us and keep us safe from harm and death. Laws are one way he tries to do so.
2) God always has a reason behind telling us to do or not to do something.
3) If we change one thing in God’s Word, we must change all of it.
4) God’s Word is true. History, science, as well as others all agree.

Next Posting--- Pigalicious

Fickleness and Second Chances

2009-04-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reminded how fickle reading what someone says is as compared to how that person says and means it. Also, how easy it is to misunderstand someone or assume about their heart and intents based on the fickleness of that context.

In saying this, I feel I must apologize and explain concerning my last post.

It has been brought to my attention that my last post has come across as me judging others, particularly Christians. Please believe me when I say that that was not my intent! I am truly sorry if any of you read it as such.

The only reason I mentioned the person that I’d had the original discussion with was because that discussion was what got me back onto this issue. That is merely how I chose to explain my concern about not only what the pig really is but also what the Bible has to say about it.

Please, hear me out on this. My purpose was not to bash this fellow Christian because I care for them greatly and wish them the very best (the reasons I discussed it with them in the first place). The post was solely to share some of my findings concerning this topic. Talking to people, for me, is what gets me searching. I would never use it against them to point a finger and say they are wrong. All I want people to do is see both sides of the spectrum, to know and weigh both options -I find that’s the best way to make the wisest decision.

So, once again, I am sorry if this came across the wrong way. Now, if I may, I would like to try this topic again, just much differently...

I would like to take the next few postings to offer my findings -from stem to stern. All the ins and outs.

I’ll answer questions like... What is the pig? And what does the Bible say about it? Also, with the coming of Christ, has this law changed? Does the Bible condone it? And I’ll examine several passages of Scripture that have been used to say so.

All I wish to do is to aid you in making a decision concerning it. I want to provide you both sides to think and ponder. From there, it’s up to you (as always).

I hope you’ll be involved. I’d love to hear your questions and attempt to answer them as best I can. But, I will be the first to tell you that I’m not perfect. The fact that I have to post an apology here is proof of that. However, I recall a saying that has always stuck with me --- Christians are not perfect, but they serve a God who is.

All I want is to use God's perfection through His Word and what is true to help you weigh the options.

Pray God blesses you all this week in amazing ways!
~Lauri

P.S. SPRING IS HERE!!!!! :D

Next Posting--- Rights, Wrongs, and Reasons

God of... Excuses?

2009-03-25T07:39:00.000-07:00

I haven’t quite known how to start this post...

This past week, I’ve had some very interesting conversations with someone I work for. I thought this person to be a good, solid Christian, and was actually starting to look up to them as such. Guess an overlying theme is not to hold anyone on this earth too high.

I can’t even recall how we started the initial conversation. I think this person had brought up something concerning pork and what we eat. This person and their family are very wanton with what they put in their mouths, and I’ve watched their children suffer for it with boils and soars on a regular basis.

This person’s point was that they didn’t think doing so was sin. Yet, what is sin? “Sin is the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4

God says in the Old Testament to refrain from eating pork -that is a law. For good reason, too! There is always a reason with God...

However, this person brought something up to me concerning this issue. Apparently the Bible gives us an excuse to do what we want. Can it be true? I wasn’t about to take his word for it. I came home and went to the Word and researched not only the Word but what it was saying by digging deeper into meanings of words, etc.

And I found this -http://thewayofthemessiah.org/bsea.html- that approached every verse this man pulled out to support his claims. I have checked this site and find it to be a credible source with no alternate intentions other than to uphold the Bible in every way, as is. (If you find otherwise, let me know.)

Between the two sides, this was the most reasonable. Not only that but it relied on God and His Word and there was no need to ignore the facts -pork is bad for you and, even with man made technology like refrigeration (main words here are MAN MADE), it is still a threat to your life. Basically, for this person to have been correct in this discussion, they would have had to change the Bible. All over the place! So, they were placing man above God. Are you?

I wasn’t about to have it. God’s Word is perfect as is! And I will forever proclaim this to be true because I know it to be. Has nothing to do with faith (in terms of following blindly) of any kind, but truth and reality and what is good.

So, the question is, would God really change His mind on something He had already said? What does that say about God? What does that say about us for portraying Him as such? And we wonder why so many people now a days have a hard time coming to Christ!

Christ said in Matthew 5:17, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law.” A fact of the matter is is that pigs have not change. Neither have these bodies of ours. That was not Christ’s purpose in coming.

In conclusion, this person said he would have to “get a revelation from God” on the matter. But, what about this... 1) I was brought to them to work. Had never met them before in my life. 2) God has blessed me with a working mind, a willingness to learn, and the understanding of these things. 3) I brought it up and shared it with them from the love and concern of my heart as a fellow follower of Christ. And 4) The proof is clearly there in favor of God’s Word, all we have to do is search it out.

What more of a revelation do we need????

Yes, I do believe that God can tell us, “this is right.” But so many times His voice is overshadowed by our selfishness or wants or needs. Plus, God did use people (prophets and even nobodies) as well as proof (the plagues in Egypt come to mind) of Him to relay his messages. Why would He have stopped using those means today?

If this is an issue you are struggling with as well, I would suggest you pray about it, yes, but also seek to learn and ask God to teach you. The best decisions made are those that we know both sides of and make based on what is right and good -based on God.

Two things to remember... “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” John 10:10

~It is very possibly you are being lied to and deceived by the Enemy about pork as well as other things. If it is a threat to your life, it's safe to say that it is not of God.

"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 a hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

~Asking isn’t the end. We must seek as well... Thank you, Billy Coffey for the reminder of this verse. :)

~L. Pierce

Sorry...

2009-03-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

I'm behind. I know it. I'm sorry.

"Two weeks," I keep telling myself. "Two weeks and things will be different."

But, then I wonder... Will it, really? How do I know? Sure, I know something that will be changing in two weeks, but two weeks is a long time. A lot can happen in two weeks. A lot has happened this week. A lot can happen in a single day that could change my life forever.

So, I ask you to be patient with me. It's not that my posts here aren't important because, believe me, they are -otherwise, I wouldn't need to write and say I'm sorry. I would rather be writing, reading, and researching more than anything else. But, that's not what God wants my focus to be on right now, I guess. And, sometimes, if I'm lucky (as if luck has anything to do with it.. ha), I get to see why.

This week I've been able to experience some things.. Not just because it's been crazy busy per se, but inside the business there has been more. More how? I have been and become a part of some things that give me purpose and remind me of how God has blessed me and answered my prayers for Him to teach me. Sometimes I can even glimpse what He might have in store for my life. That, in itself, is so thrilling. I can have my head in the clouds, dreaming about what I am and still could be, and it gives me hope and keeps me going. Any writer's dream.. Boy, what a life! ;) *giggle*

That's the stuff to get high off of. Forget drugs and all those other alternatives that don't last and harm you. This is everlasting and safe. And it's real. Like, really real. I'll explain in my next post, Lord willing.

I can't say it enough, and I never will... God is so amazing! Pray you all are finding the same to be true in your own lives this week and always.

Looking forward to what tomorrow may hold,
~L. Pierce

Apologize!?

2009-03-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

I’d like to know... What’s happened to saying you’re sorry? Even if you don’t know what you’ve done, yet the evidence is there that something is clearly wrong, why don’t we say sorry?

I have learned there are several reasons “sorry” is no longer in some people’s vocabulary.

ONE -- People deceive themselves into thinking that they have done nothing wrong.

I know someone like this. They go around and around the issue, trying to somehow make themselves feel or seem justified or to rid themselves of the guilt. Sometimes they even stoop to saying the other person isn’t making any sense when the matter of an apology is brought to their attention.

However, it is quite obvious that NO ONE is perfect (as I have said before). So, to think this is selfishly one sided. We just go by what WE think to be right by our own perception of things when we cannot know or see all, in effect, discarding what the other person might think.

We all make mistakes! And I know for certain that no one is without their faults when it comes to an argument or issue. In fact, you can’t have either without at least two people being involved, so that right there makes all parties guilty.

That alone should be enough reason to say sorry! So, again, why don’t people apologize?

TWO --Another reason would be that they have asked the person that was involved if there is anything they should apologize for, and they have said “no.”

Only problem with this is that, personally, I don’t think you should ask someone if you need to apologize! It defeats the purpose of apologizing -humbling yourself in order to truly show you’re sorry. Not only that, but it puts others on the spot and most people won’t say yes because they don’t want to sound mean or make a bigger issue out of things. There is even the possibility that they know that person will attempt to reason their way out of apologizing if they mention something -definitely a big turn off.

What would you do if someone close to you asked you if they needed to apologize for something?

I recently spoke to the person I mentioned before about apologizing to someone else I know. (Are you still with me? Lets call the first person I mentioned earlier, Person 1, and this new person, Person 2)

There is clearly some sort of wall between them. Person 2 isn’t talking to Person 1 and the last time they talked, there was a fight -Person 2 made a comment about something, and Person 1 blew it way out of proportion causing Person 2 to leave.

That was the last time they spoke. So, it makes sense then, given the evidence, that both, especially Person 1, should apologize. Right? Person 1 for assuming something that wasn’t and making a big deal out of it, and Person 2 for not making it clearer and not trying to work it out like adults.

Well Person 1 did the first two things we’ve talked about here. They don’t think they are wrong, they’ve tried to talk their way out of their need to apologize, and have brought up the issue that they have asked if they need to apologize. They’ve even said the middle man that approached them (me) wasn’t making sense when trying to explain why they needed to apologize.

Come to think of it though, I can’t think of the last time Person 1 has ever apologized for anything. That leads to the next point.

THREE -- They try and forget about what they have done and often times succeed.

In their minds they probably think it will be forgotten in due time. But, wrongs aren’t forgotten so easily. Nor are they forgiven so easily in many people’s cases.

I can still remember quite clearly when someone did something awful to me and never apologized for it. In fact, I can remember them all. Not that I haven’t forgiven those people because I have, or that I hold it against them because I don’t! But, when someone does something to you and doesn’t at least try to make amends for it, for some reason it becomes ingrained in your mind.

Think about it... Has someone ever treated you wrongly or harmed you in some way? Even if you have forgiven them, do you remember it? If my guess is right, even though it’s been a long time and has been dealt with by forgiveness, you can probably still remember it like it was yesterday. Correct?

This could be for many reasons. Perhaps it’s in the hope that someday they will apologize. *shrug* Who can really say for certain. The point is, wrongs don’t right themselves just by letting them sit. They don’t magically disappear, no matter what we may think. They can actually get much worse when left alone. Like a pot of food on a hot burner, it will get more and more burnt, in effect destroying the food on the inside.

“But.. that means that apologizing is that much more important then.. It could be someone’s life at stake.”

That’s right! Some people aren’t as easy to forgive as others. Sure, I have forgiven those that have wronged me, but what would other people have done in my situation? Some might fall apart, others might become bitter and hateful toward anyone and everyone. So many bad things could happen to them, all because someone didn’t apologize!

And all we have to do is say two little words with as much heartfelt meaning as we harbor... “I’m sorry.”

Even if we've done something small, too! It’s better to cover our bases.

I bring up saying it with meaning because it can be very VERY obvious if you are not truly sorry. So, make sure you feel it inside before you say it and act on it. Otherwise, you will do no good -it will show.

FOUR -- Lastly, the person thinks that the other should be the one to apologize first.

I must admit, I have been here myself. Only problem is.. What if the other person is thinking the same thing? Then that issue is never dealt with and those wounds are never healed. As stated in reason ONE, we are all guilt for just being involved. That means we should apologize. So, DON'T WAIT!

Would that we all would put aside our own pride and think of others before ourselves. What are they feeling? What will this do to them if not dealt with? Not only that, but what will it do to us? We will become someone we do not wish to be.

It’s one thing to forgive someone; it’s another to apologize. But, we need to do both. If we can forgive, why can’t we say we’re sorry as well? They go hand in hand! It might take putting aside ourselves to do so but, if we can save a life, it’s worth it all. And it's never too late to apologize. That's the beauty of it.

What would the world be like if “sorry” became as popular as “yes” and “no”?

~L. Pierce
Do what is right and good in the LORD's sight, so that it may go well with you... Deuteronomy 6:18

Next Posting--- God of... Excuses?

I Did It...

2009-03-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

I turned my World of Warcraft account back on. I know, I know. Call me crazy but, considering I'm all by myself, I figured I'd spare myself the boredom and perhaps prevent me from going insane in the process.

My mom is out of town for a week and a half, so it's just me and Sherbert (my parakeet). And, trust me, he's not a whole lot of fun. He'd rather bark at the dishwasher all day. (Don't ask.)

All in all, WoW isn't really a horrible game, though my brother would argue that the graphics are horrible and it's too "easy."

But there are actually a lot of extra things you can benefit from, believe it or not. Like how to type, which helps exponentially with being a writer. Since I started playing 3 years or so ago, my typing skills have sky rocketed! I'm couldn't be more thrilled! Who needs typing classes? Just get WoW and know your keyboard. It works!

You also learn how to communicate and deal with people and often times have the privilege of meeting some really neat ones in the process. The quests in game help to get your brain working and even help you to plan ahead (for example, I have X and Y quests in this area, but quest Z is on the way.. that sort of thing), Plus, organizing your bag space is a great way to learn to be orderly (yeah, I'm still working on this one.. But, keep in mind that certain brilliant men weren't tidy either!).

And finally, it can be a great mission field. There are so many lost people all around the world that could use a caring gesture or a kind word. I can't even count the people I've been able to witness to or help in some small way. God is so good. After all, Jesus said to "go into all the world and preach the gospel." Well, all the world is in WoW now apparently. Lol

However, it does have it's down sides and these are just as important as the others...

For one, there is always a threat with talking to people online that you don't know. Caution is greatly advised. Remember, only God sees into the heart and mind.

And, most importantly, there is a chance you can get sucked in and addicted, so it's important to use in moderation and not get too attached. Real life is more important and rewarding, no matter how much Gold you have or Gear you earn!! Don't forget that!

So, yes, I did it. But, I can honestly say that it has no hold over me. After a month, it will be off again and I won't even bat an eye... Gotta love self control. :)

Anyway, sorry this post is late today! I'm not at home for the next day or so due to guys refinishing the wooden floors in our house. Oye, what a mess.

Hope this finds you all well! And hey, if you're a WoWer or soon to be... give me a shout. Would love to meet ya! :)

~L. Pierce

Taken

2009-03-06T07:01:00.000-08:00

I was rather taken with Taken.

The new movie came out January 30th and stars the voice of Aslan from Narnia, actor Liam Neeson. If you loved his deep, soothing vocals in that movie, you’ll love actually hearing AND seeing him in this one. Also included is the X-Men star Jean Grey, Famke Janssen.

I caught a screening of it Friday, the 27th of February, and even after a month the theater was still packed. For good reason, too...

Plot-- In short, the movie is about a man who’s daughter gets taken on a trip to Paris with her girlfriend. Using "skills he has acquired" from previous work, he fights to find her, even allowing his own life to be put at risk. That makes up the brunt of the story.

Alerts-- It is very intense. There is violence and blood, though not as much blood as one would expect with a plot such as this. It’s far from gore.

The language is there but, personally, I was more wrapped up in the story line to really notice it. Altogether, I felt the language was at a minimum though. There is more action -not much time involved for swearing.

Even with these elements, you’re enthralled and unable to stop watching because he’s looking for his daughter -a noble cause. One you hope and pray he succeeds in as you learn more about why she was taken.

Clarity-- The more action packed scenes are very easy to follow and extremely well done visually. They don’t blur by like they do in some movies. You’re able to keep up without much, if any, effort at all. The same goes for the actual plot.

Conclusions-- The whole movie is based around this man’s love for his daughter and his willingness to do anything to find her. That alone is what makes this movie great. It’s also something we don’t see much of anymore in this day and age.

Fathers... You may not need to fight for your kids the way Liam Neeson did in this movie, but there will be things to fight for, I guarantee it. And your daughters especially need you to. Being one, I know.

Please, never back down. Never give up. And fight for them at all costs, even if it means losing yourself. There are still lives and hearts counting on you.

I highly recommend you go check out the movie Taken. You won't regret a single moment.

~L. Pierce

Prophecy of Christ

2009-03-02T06:29:00.000-08:00

I found this explanation about the prophecies of Jesus Christ and it made it so real to me. I never thought much of it before I read this. Hope you guys enjoy! :)

Peter Stoner, a scientist in the area of mathematic probabilities, says in his book Science Speaks that if we take just eight of the Old Testament prophecies Christ fulfilled, we find that the probability of their coming to pass is one in 10 to the 17th power. He illustrates that staggering amount this way:

“We take 10 to the 17th power silver dollars and lay them on the face of Texas. They will cover all of the state 2 feet deep. Now mark one of these silver dollars and stir the whole mass thoroughly. Blindfold a man and tell them he must pick up one silver dollar. What chance would he have of getting the right one? Just the same chance that the prophets would have had at getting these eight prophecies and having them come true in any one man.”

And keep in mind that Jesus fulfilled hundreds more than just eight prophecies!

~L. Pierce

The Writer As Actor

2009-02-27T06:26:00.000-08:00

Ever watched your favorite actor or actress in a show or movie and thought to yourself, “I could be an actor”? Well, if you’re a writer, you almost have to be.

In order to have strong, lovable, and alluring characters, the writer has to become those characters themselves in order to properly portray them on paper. They have to get inside the mind of their characters to know how they think and act and why. So, believe it or not, writers are also part actors.

But, I must say, writers take the cake in the acting department. No offense to all those actors and actresses out there! Think about it though... While a working actor becomes only one or maybe two people per story/job, a writer can be many people at once (in just one story)! And that takes a lot of brain power and effort because writers have to make each and every character unique and enticing.

Also, and I don’t mean to sound arrogant or anything, but writers are a bit more creative as well. While actors are told who to become and given specific people to be, writers create who they want to be from the ground up (or, moreover, who the characters in their story want to be).

Haven’t ever thought about this for your writing? Now might be a good time to start. Put your characters shoes on and figure out how they tick. Boy or girl, doesn’t matter. Writers have to be both. Just become someone other than yourself.

Get your findings down on paper -everything from why they love blueberries to what makes their heart race or makes them cry and why (this is just as important). How they walk, how they talk, everything. The more questions you ask, the better you’ll know your character. And no question is too silly. You may find you can use something later on in the story to add comedy or drama.

I just read in Ethel Herr’s, An Introduction to Christian Writing, that to increase perceptivity you have to try new things. “Break old patterns. Take risks. And purposefully broaden your interests.” So, try wearing a different outfit -one you might not even really like, take a different route home from work, and don’t be afraid to learn new things. Experiment and learn.

That’s what actors are after all, aren’t they? Expert experimentalists? They become someone that does things they don’t. And, in order to do that, we writers have to know what is out there to do.

Observe, yes. I’m not saying that isn’t important. But do it yourself as well if you can. You learn a lot more when it’s hands on -it offers a lot more depth you can add to your writing.

~~ Put It To The Test (PIT3)- In one of your current works, focus on an important character you can’t seem to get a grip on. Make a list of questions (which will no doubt lead to more questions), and have both a:

1) “session” (where you sit across from them and pretend to ask them your questions and they give you responses..) In this case, be sure to make note of how they respond to certain questions -example, if you asked them about their home life before they moved away, do they flinch? That flinch says a lot. And then,

2) act them out and answer the questions on your own -become them. Pretend your finished book is being put on the big screen and you get to play the character.

Then leave me a note. What did you learn about them that you didn’t already know before? Did you prefer to talk to them or become them; observe or transform? Did you get more from one above the other? Was this exercise helpful?

Above all though, have fun!:)

~L. Pierce

In A Rut

2009-02-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

I admit, I’ve had better weeks than this past one. I had to get almost completely to the bottom of the barrel for God to teach me something. But, I learned. All the honor and glory goes to Him.

I like to call this sort of thing being ‘in a rut.’ And that fits perfectly because when you’re physically in a deep ditch, it takes a while to get out of. You have to slowly climb your way out, suffering through loss of progress or even having to start all over again. Or you just have to wait for someone to come find you and help you out. Either way, you learn a lot in the process, and sometimes that’s the hardest part.

This time around, it was twice as bad, which was my own fault really. I was in a rut in both my life and my writing. Usually, when life gets bad for me, I have my writing to turn to to give me a bit of reprieve. An escape, if you will. But, this was not the case -good thing, too.

What I never want to do is place my writing before or above God. I know He is the only one that can truly help me when I’m not in the best of spirits or feeling alone, but I think I was in fact beginning to replace Him with this means of escape. God forgive me. I was relying on myself rather than Him which is always a disaster waiting to happen.

So, when my means of income was starting to weigh on me and take time away from my writing, I got rather frustrated. Why? When I thought about it, I really didn’t know. Who bucks at more income? Lol me apparently. The fact that it was stealing time from what I enjoyed would be my honest guess as to my attitude and actions.

Driving home after a long day, I was a little depressed which, if you knew me in person, is not at all normal. I cried out to Him for help. I didn’t know what to do. Why I was feeling the way I was.

And then I realized... I wasn’t just getting frustrated at the load of work or because I wasn’t able to write because of it, I was getting frustrated at God. He is the one that gives me work in the first place and provides for me -always has. I was throwing His provision back in His face. And it was making me miserable. Is it any wonder?

The Lord spoke to me. This time around it was through the radio, a station called K-Love. Basically, He kicked me in the rear and told me to wake up. He was blessing me with business, as I’ve been praying for, and I was complaining about it. So, I repented right there and immediately started to thank Him for the work instead. He had wanted my praise and was getting my childish and selfish complaints. I was quite ashamed and humbled. But I guess it’s true... We are always learning. I’m just glad I have someone as gracious and loving as God to be the one to correct and teach me.

Wouldn’t you know it, my mood did a complete 180 after that. It was a HUGE wake-up call, and I’m sure it won’t be the last. But, I’m grateful for His patience with me. It never ceases to amaze me how He can constantly put up with me. I wouldn’t be so tolerant.

Our God is no doubt one of a kind. And thank goodness for that! Take time to give Him praise today, even if you don’t feel like it. See what happens. :)

~L. Pierce

In Whom Do We Trust??

2009-02-18T17:42:00.000-08:00

NBC is taking a poll to find out if "In God We Trust" should remain on our American currency. To get in on the vote, there is still time... go here -http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10103521/. I wonder if they'll be surprised by the outcome. I wonder if WE'LL be surprised by the outcome.

Think it could never happen? Guess again... I read an article last month that says that the British Society is already embracing Darwinian ideas and placing their trust in man above God. You can read the article here -http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/au/one-nation-under-man.

What is this world coming to? More importantly, what will happen to us if we lose sight of God and everything He stands for -everything that is good? I can't stop thinking of the Israelites... Perhaps history is repeating itself. If that's the case, we're letting it.

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippians 4:8

And Another One...

2009-02-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

Boy, scammers are busy lately. Lol

HEADS UP all you on Craig's List! There is another person by the name of Chris Morris that is trying to scam people. This person is claiming to have a 15 year old daughter. Keep a watchful eye out!

I'm finding that if you ask for proof of who they are, they just stop emailing you. Guess that means the jig is up! Haha Hope it helps!

Blessings! :)
~L. Pierce

Scam

2009-02-16T06:32:00.000-08:00

I just came across another scam that thankfully I was able to catch onto before it went any farther.....

I’m a music teacher and was hoping to expand my in-home business with a few more students, so I posted an add on Craig’s List. I’ve done this a few time before and God has blessed me with some wonderful families. Only, this time, I did one thing different.

Yes, I was foolish... I supplied my real email instead of allowing them to use an anonymous one that would serve as my own. So, I do take full responsibility for what happened.

But anyway... Shortly after, I was contacted by a Dr. Matthew Medley in reference to his son Erin, 14 years old, for him to take lessons. This man claimed that he was working with the United Nations in Dublin, Ireland and his son would be visiting the States for a month. He wanted his son to be doing something constructive. I thought, “cool!” But at the same time was a bit skeptical (though, I always am).

The man asked what my charges would be for 3 hour lessons per week for an entire month, and I gave him a figure. 'Figured' it was harmless enough. Lol no pun intended. X)

Well, some of the main things I started to notice was that this person, this Dr. Medley, had poor English, typing skills, and would often even spell his own name wrong. That was what started me really questioning.

As we conversed back and forth a bit more, he never once asked about who I was.. If my son were going to be spending time with a teacher 3 hours a week away from his parents, I would certainly want to know who that person is! Right? But nope. Nothing. That was another key element to my scam radar. I proceeded to the United Nations website and found a page that mentioned how some people are claiming to be in association with them when in actuality they are not. DING DING DING!

So, once he found out what the total would be, he said to supply him with an address so he could have his associate, not even himself, mail me a money order. AND the only thing I would need to do was forward part of the money order to his “nanny” that would be driving his son around.

That was the last bit for me! I wrote him back and.. well.. probably didn’t act as Christian-like as I should have. I pointed out what I was reading, especially the lack of interest in who his “son” would be spending all this time with. Then I concluded by telling him to grow up and get a life, and while he was at it to learn how to speak English and type. *cringe* Yeah, I’m not too proud of it.. But, I guess it could have been worse.

Not long ago, I caught an episode of Oprah that was on this very topic of scams. Some of them I had come across before, so when this Dr. Medley came around I was a little more prepared. But there are people out there that have fallen for stuff like this and it wound up costing them, often times money. It’s sad.

But, what concerns me most is that people actually fall for this stuff. I mean, lets admit something... These scammers don’t suck us in. We are not hypnotized or controlled like puppets. All they do is lay a pleasing choice before us, feeding off our own greed/need for money. We are the ones that lack in the sufficient wisdom to see it for what it is. A trap. And these scammers know it too, otherwise they wouldn’t try. Says a lot about us, doesn’t it?

Seems to me that there is a great parallel with this. Satan is the same way. He is a scammer. Truth be told, he is the best scam artist out there -making things like drugs, alcohol, and premarital sex pleasing when in reality they are just plain stupid. Yet, almost every day I see someone else willingly stepping into his trap of ignorance.

That’s right, I said it... Ignorance. To do these things, it is nothing short of throwing logic and reason out the window. Yet, nothing good can or will ever come out of these things. Say for, oh, a “good time.” But at what cost? Your health? Your heart? Your soul? Your life? Nope, sorry.. Not worth it. There is way more to life than a meager "good time."

Call me skeptical or untrusting or even a fun sucker.. But, for one, I think being skeptical has helped me many a time and protected me from dangers that would otherwise prove to harm me. Two, I trust people when they show me they can be trustworthy -when the evidence is clearly before me. And three, fun is not what I would call willingly being blind and dumb to the obvious. Sorry, I prefer to be wise rather than stupid. I figure I’ll live a lot longer that way.

“For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil,” 1 Timothy 6:10. One of those evils is most definitely ignorance. And, luckily for us, that makes scammers fallible and easier to distinguish. Just look for the signs. Be skeptical.

God NEVER expects us to be blind or stupid. That is one of the biggest myths out there about the Bible and Christians. In fact, with what I’m growing to understand, God and the Bible are the beginning of knowledge and wisdom. But, that is a topic for another time.

Be happy, live smart, and know that scam artists are forever in our midst. Lets show them we make for bad prey, shall we?

~L. Pierce

Imagination

2009-02-13T06:11:00.000-08:00

However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

I love this verse. Lately I’ve needed it, too. No eye, no ear, and NO MIND can imagine what God has planned out for us.

As a writer, I have a pretty wild imagination. For God to tell me that even with that imagination, I still haven’t a clue what He has for my life, I’m amazed! And as I write this I actually have tears in my eyes.

God is so incredible. With every possible relationship that comes my way, no matter what I think could happen, envision to be, or dream will come to pass, God always has something better. Even if it isn’t that person themselves.

If that doesn’t show us how much God loves us, I don’t know what will!

So, lets dream big! Writers or not. It’s not just a suggestion, it’s a dare! The bigger we dream, the bigger God has in store for us.

Oh, but FYI... Dream with a pure heart. Notice the end of the verse, "those who love him."

~L. Pierce

Textastic!

2009-02-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

Texting... It’s the form of talk that’s growing more and more popular. But, as a working brain and a working writer, it can also be used for more than just talking to friends. In this post, I would like to share how it can serve as a recorder for your thoughts on the go.

Most, if not all, phones have text messaging. As long as you have the means of sending one, that is all you need. You don’t need to spend money on Unlimited Texting or anything if you don’t use texts beyond this suggestion.

All you do is open an empty text message, type in what you want to remember (Hint- T9 is a wonderful thing. It allows you to push the letter button that you want just once instead of several times to get to the letter you want.), and hit the back button. That should give you the option to save or delete the message. You want to save it.

Now, since this is man-made technology and, in effect, unreliable, I suggest that you get your idea on paper as soon as you can. Your saved message will be in the Messaging folder in your Drafts. Once you have it down, you can then delete it to save room for other ideas.

When I’m on the run and don’t have time to get out my paper and pencil (or, God forbid, forgot it!), my phone comes in awfully handy as more than just a social/work line.

~L. Pierce

Hypocrites and Justice

2009-02-07T06:36:00.000-08:00

There is a lot going around about Phelps being suspended. What I don’t understand is.. why?

Sure, there is a picture of him using marijuana. Does that mean he still uses? Something I fail to read about is whether the photo is recent or if it's something in his past.. Anyone know?

I find it really hypocritical though. I mean, society and the media all make things like that seem “normal”. And when it comes to those that don’t, we are labeled as uncool and even unhuman! (Which, in reality, those that don’t are cooler... Consider all that’s happening to Phelps!)

So, the photo... They created it, whether they want to admit it or not. They are creating the means (the pipe) and the motive (it’s the normal thing to do and it looks SO cool on camera). He tried that because it’s been made to seem ‘okay’.

Sure, he may have made a poor decision in actually doing it, but he’s not perfect! NO ONE IS! We are fools if we think that Phelps is as well just because of what he’s done. Yes, he’s done some amazing things. But we all have the potential to if we take it and work hard.

What kind of justice is it when we create monsters then punish them?

~L. Pierce

Roots, by Lauri Pierce

2009-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

I am by no means a poet, but God taught me something today that came out in this way. So, I thought I would share. Let me know what you think. :)

~~~~~~~ ROOTS~~~~~~~

There was once a place I used to dine,
On sin and foul of every kind.
Three trees stood tall and marked three sides,
Leaving open a welcome compromise.

Then I left that place; grew old and wise.
Turned from my sin and found my life.
One by one the trees grew rot,
Consumed by poison, ne’er to stop.
And one by one they each were chopped,
Severed once and left a thought.

I watched the last come crashing down,
The last of my sin I hoped was found.
But each tree was left a stump,
Every bit of what grew once.
Though what was seen was no more,
What was unseen still endured.

So, a note I wrote,
Of things within.
My sorrow and apology there in.
It was their future I did fear,
Actions past were there to steal.

Like those roots I learned it well,
the secret of forgiveness’ spell.
God does forgive our crooked past,
The thoughts of which turn into glass.
But with it comes clear view of those,
Of whom our wrong did so oppose.

With God’s forgiveness we should see,
That it is not a one-way street.
Yes, God forgave me,
This is true.
But now let me seek forgiveness from you.

Do not forget that all we do,
Has a way of spreading like flu.
Our tongue we use to claim a change.
Let our actions then say the same.

Even though those roots still loom,
Of trees that spelled my imminent doom.
My words, I hope, will do their part,
And save one good and innocent heart.

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part Six

2009-01-31T07:31:00.000-08:00

~Finally, confusing passion for anger.

Passion and anger can be very easily mistaken at times, especially if you don’t know the other person very well. Anyone reading this might very well think my tone has been angry in these posts. But, I assure you, that was not my intent and I’m truly sorry if it came across as such. I am, however, very passionate about what I believe and know to be true.

Not because, oh, I’ve been raised this way or that’s all I’ve known, I follow blindly. Not at all! I had to search on my own. I had to know for myself that what I believed was right. So, I did. And I do. Now I am passionate about this unshakable grounding and that is what has lead me to speak on it. To start a blog with God and truth as focal points. God is a huge part of my life, so why shouldn’t my blog reflect it?

Anyway, passion and anger... I think the best thing to say concerning it is just don’t assume someone that stands for their faith is angry. Sure, some might be, but you should never automatically decide that. It makes you no better than they.

I was thinking the other day how much I love debates. Passion, I think, is vital to debate something -the Christian faith included. If you are passionate about something, you give it the proper time and attention to research everything there is about it as well as everything there is against it. If you weren’t passionate about what you were debating, there isn't as much motivation to know everything about it.

Christians.. If you are passionate about what you believe, don’t let the opinion of others stop you from sharing it and knowing. Let them think that you are angry if they want! God knows your heart. He knows the truth of the matter. And it’s His opinion of you that matters most. As Christians, we have such an incredible heritage. Want to know it?

Matthew 7:7-8: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”

**If everyone gets nothing else from these posts, let it be this one thing... NEVER ASSUME you know what other people know, think, or feeling, especially concerning you. These things are impossible to know for certain! Let the other person’s actions, character, and words together speak for themselves. But always keep in mind that you cannot see their heart.

~L. Pierce
2 Timothy 1:12 says, “Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.”

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part Five

2009-01-30T10:07:00.000-08:00

~The next misconception is taking generosity as wanting something or worse, forced.

Let me make quite clear that being a Christian doesn’t mean you are required to give to others. However, when you are a true follower of Christ, there is a great desire to -be it with time or money. So, to assume that when a Christian gives you something they are require to, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Now, that’s not to say some “Christians” don’t do this very thing. I’m sure some do. I would go so far as to say some even expect to get something in return. But that is why I said “true” Christians. Real followers of Christ wouldn’t think twice about it and especially wouldn't make giving a reason to get back. Christ gave His life for us, freely! Why wouldn’t we do anything less for others?

Check out the Bible on the matter.

So, on one end... Again, it’s completely inaccurate to think that Christians are required to give or are at all pressured to. It’s not Biblical or even logical. We all have to make the choice to give or not. It’s our choice no matter what!

On the other... Christians would do well to make sure they are giving for the right reasons. Not for themselves, but for others. Not to be praised, but to be humbled. Not to expect anything in return, but to give just to get a smile or even a tear of joy. Let me assure you, it’s one hundred times more worth it. :)

~L.Pierce

Next Posting-- Part Six: Passion (final post of this series)

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part Four

2009-01-29T17:48:00.000-08:00

~Misunderstanding time given and kindness for relational feelings and likewise, not having time for dislike.

This misunderstanding can be said of anyone, not just Christians. However, because Christians are loving, caring people, some can take it the wrong way.

I have been an avid gamer for part of my life. Yes, I admit it. Some people I’ve met (mostly boys) have done this very thing. And they knew of what I professed to believe. Even in everyday life, there are those that don’t have much to do with me anymore because I couldn’t make this party or, oh, was too busy to do such and such.

This one has duel messages. Yes, one is that others should not think just because you are being kind (or are busy) that that means you like them beyond the scope of friendship (or doesn’t like them at all). And two, is actually an alert for Christians.

As a Christian, we “have the goods.” That is not arrogance, it’s confidence. Don’t let others use you because, unlike other people, you love and care. There are those out there that will. Trust me, I’ve met them. I know. This is not to say that you shouldn’t be kind and help people, etc., but just to be careful. Make sure others know where you stand (I believe this is part of the reason why we can’t keep quiet about Christ) and think about what you say before you say it. Don’t say something that will lead someone to conclude something that isn’t.

The Bible says, “Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'...” Matthew 5:37. This section is on Oaths. It’s telling us not to swear an oath at all and, in essence, to watch what we say.

~L. Pierce

Next Posting--- Part Five: Generosity

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part Three

2009-01-28T12:41:00.000-08:00

~Thirdly, our observation is concerning the mix up of happiness with superiority.

As a follower of Christ, joy comes naturally. Not saying that we are always that way; we are still in this world of sin after all. But, being joyful is easier knowing Christ.

Often people mistake that happiness for superiority. Like we Christians are too big for our britches.

However, if someone is truly following Christ and strives to please Him, that is a completely false conclusion. Why? Because following Jesus means to follow His example as well as all of God’s Word, and it clearly tells us that all men are equal.

Acts 17:26, “And hath made of one blood all nations of men...”

Not to mention it commands us to love our neighbor as ourselves -Leviticus 19:18 as well as scattered throughout the New Testament. And even shows us who our neighbors are -John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

So, to assume something like this completely goes against everything a Christian stands for in the first place! How then is it logical to decide that just because someone seems happy, they think they are better than you?

Please, do not accuse Christians without solid reason to. Just because you might not have what we do, that doesn’t give you sufficient reason to point a finger.

L. Pierce

Next Posting--- Part Four: Kindness

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part Two

2009-01-27T06:11:00.000-08:00

~The second observation I would like to approach is how Christians “feel a need to explain things,” especially concerning what they believe.

I have heard it assumed many a time that Christians have some sociological need to explain themselves. For one, I have to chuckle at this because in all cases it’s been said after the fact that I had posted to or approached someone else trying to explain what THEY believe and know. Can we say, ‘pot calling the kettle black?’

And secondly, we all have a need to explain ourselves. We are not perfect. Things we do may come across in a way we don’t intend, so we feel an immediate need to assure others of our true intentions. I repeat, EVERYONE does this. Christians are not the only ones. Stop pointing a finger at us when you might as well be pointing in a mirror.

For Christians, it goes a bit deeper than that though, I admit. Yes, we want to clarify things, but once again, it’s because we care. When we wish to explain something concerning that which we hold to, it’s for no other reason than we want others to know, understand, and feel how we do -the importance of that which we speak. To experience how awesome God is! We want so much for others to share in the same joy and pleasure! There is nothing wrong with that. It’s called love.

There is also nothing wrong with defending what you believe, especially since it’s constantly attacked in every way imaginable like Christianity is. In that case, why would we not??? If we didn’t, it would say much more about what we believe than if we did.

I’m afraid due to the presence of so many different religions around the world today, Christianity gets clumped together with the lot of them, right along with all they represent as well. This is not only inappropriate but completely illogical.

For example, while a majority of religions require blind faith to believe and follow, Christianity does not. The evidence is boundless and growing. By far, the Bible and Christianity stand out in so many ways, it’s actually absurd that it is considered even remotely similar to any other form of belief system out there. Check out the historical, scientific, archaeological, geological, and any other ‘cal’ (lol) and see for yourself the accuracy of this book we know as the Holy Bible.

Not only that, but research things like the prophecy of Jesus Christ and marks of inspiration in the Biblical text, and that opens up a whole ‘nother world! I get excited and awed every time I think about it all. Our God, ladies and gentlemen, is beyond compare. :)

No, Christianity and the Bible are far from any other religion out there. In what way? It’s reality.

And that is why we explain. That is why we share. Because it’s THAT much more important.

~L. Pierce
Romans 1:20, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities -his eternal power and divine nature- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse."

Next Posting--- Part Three: Happiness

Misunderstood, But Not Forgotten -Part One

2009-01-26T07:16:00.000-08:00

To all the followers of Christ out there. We tend to be misunderstood more often than not, am I right? And it’s getting rather frustrating.

Personally, I’ve been yelled at for just about everything, even caring about someone and wanting to help them (how ironic is that?). If by becoming a Christian you thought that life would get better, think again. It actually tends to get worse. All battles for good must be fought, and in the process we become stronger people because of them. Only, however, if we are still standing once the battle is over. That is the tricky part. To not let what other people say and do get to us is a task that proves impossible at times. But, hold on! The fight is well worth it, believe me!

Jesus said this for a reason, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! For I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

For the next couple days/posts, I would like to point out some misunderstandings that are very common against Christians. I urge all of you (nonbelievers and believers) that have had a similar experience with a Christian in one form or another, to read and really consider. And comment! If there are any I have left out, I would very much like to know.

~Our first and main observation is the one mentioned: Confusing caring and sharing for being bossy and a “know it all.”

A friend I used to have had skin cancer. This person would tell me about things they were dealing with and the types of things they did on a regular basis, and I was always willing to listen. But when it came to talking and suggesting, this person drew the line. And rather harshly I might add.

After suggesting some things they could change that might help them over all, I was blown up at. My care for this person was instead taken as a threat. However, I not once tried to force them to do anything, just suggested a few things I had learned -logical suggestions based on what I knew.

I thought I had given them sufficient evidence that I cared, but perhaps not. However, I know where my heart was when I suggested what I did. I love this person enough to care about their well being which is the only reason why I said what I did.

Most, if not all, true followers of Christ are very caring people. Please, do not confuse that care and our desire to share what we know for the worst. Perhaps we’ve been placed in your path for a reason. Do you ever think of that?

A bit of advice... It would show a lot more about you if you listened and never said a word, even if you don’t agree with what we’re saying.~

WDYT? (What Do You Think?)

L. Pierce
Just breathe.. God'll do the rest.

Next Posting--- Part Two: Explanations

Doomed to Perfection

2009-01-23T06:49:00.000-08:00

As if.

No one.. I repeat.. NO ONE is perfect. You could probably think of someone right now that seems perfect in your eyes, but they’re not. Or perhaps you think you are. Forgive me, but don’t kid yourself. How do I know?

Not only do we live in an imperfect world thanks to sin, but also the word perfect itself tells us. Perfect signifies that our whole life has been good and without fault from the very start. I’d like to see a show of hands for anyone who has had a perfect upbringing and made all the right decisions every step of the way..?

No one? Didn’t think so. I know I haven't.

Another thing “perfect” tells us is that to be perfect is to be good. This makes sense. In Genesis 1, God created everything good -us, very good. When we fell, we were separated from that good. Seems only natural that perfect is what we must go back to. And look around. Not a lot of perfect going on here.

The only perfect person that has ever been on this earth was Jesus. And the Bible as well as extra biblical history shows it in what He did and who He was. In Him, and ONLY in Him can we ever even attempt to be perfect/good.

And that’s the thing with perfection. We may not be perfect to begin with, but we can try to be thanks to God. By being and doing good, these are some ways we can do it. But I need to stress that as followers of Christ, and only as such, do we have the tools necessary to truly do so. Without Him, us trying to be perfect and good is meaningless. And without Him, there is no one to pick us up when we fall, which we will.

Also, when we are walking straight, it shows. We stand out like sore thumbs.. just not as red and puffy. lol

The Bible says, “..children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.” I want to shine like a star. Don’t you? I want people to look at me and know there is something different about me. If we aren’t trying to be who God wants us to be -perfect as He is perfect- and instead giving into what the world wants us to be like, how can we expect to do this? Everyone wants to be like the world! Personally, it’s getting very old. Better to be different than carbon copies of each other. And people think God made us robots. Ha! No. Man is the only culprit behind that one.

Lets choose to be different and try to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God, not man. After all, God sees all, especially our hearts. Man doesn’t. And before him is the only place that it matters.

Take my word for it... There is no greater adventure or harder journey than to be different. But it's so worth it. :)

~L. Pierce

Don't Tell... Show!

2009-01-20T15:15:00.000-08:00

This can be said in life as well as writing. With writing, it is important to do both, but showing is by far more important than telling. You wouldn’t want to write a story and only tell the reader what happened. That would get very boring, very fast. People want to see something happen, not just hear that it happened.

But, for the purpose of this blog, I want to focus on real life. Recently someone told me they love me with all their heart. I couldn’t help thinking, where is the proof of it? It’s one thing to tell me this is true, it’s quite another to show it to me. Call me skeptical but, if you knew this person, you would understand. I can think of very little ways in which they have truly shown it to me.

Oh, that we all would strive to show, not just tell in all areas of our life! The same is true with being a Christian. How much more would it prove to others that we are followers of Christ if we acted like it? The verse, “you shall know them by their fruit,” in Matthew 7 comes to mind. We all need fruit in our lives. Fruit behind our words.

The Bible is what we Christians should use as our guide. And it gives more than enough to know how to conduct ourselves and what being a Christian really means. Galatians 5:23+24, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

If we claim to be followers of Christ, lets act like it! If we say and feel we love someone, how about we show it to them! It would mean so much more than meager words.

Now, we can also use show don’t tell to see who people truly are. The King James version of Matthew 7 goes so far as to say, “A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.”

I used to have a friend that claimed to be a Christian for example, yet was not living like it at all. Once I asked this friend to tell me about their testimony -how they came to know Christ and make Him Lord of their life- and found out that they didn’t have one! They had never ask Christ into their life. Not only that, but with some of their actions, which are not appropriate to discuss, it clearly showed too.

This is the evidence we should look for in everything. Don’t just settle for words, which can change as quickly as they are said. Wait to see the proof of them first. Let actions speak louder than words. It will help protect you from unwanted talkers.

~L. Pierce

Paper is your Friend

2009-01-16T06:36:00.000-08:00

Technology now a days has us thinking that we need paper less and less. But this is not so. For writers especially, paper is important. And not just for sending in manuscripts.

I’m talking about notebooks and pads of paper. Because writing a story (especially a novel) involves so much detail and layers of information, I’ve found that the best way to catalogue this is with good old-fashioned pencil and paper.

But, the benefits don’t end there.

This is helpful for even writing down ideas when you aren’t near your computer. If anyone is like me, I forget things unless I get them down right away. Having a notebook or pad of paper on hand is great for this.

And not just for writers! Have a question you want to remember so you can think over it when you aren’t distracted and have more time? Paper is good for that, too.

Also, think about the reliability. Compared to a computer, you’re never left to worry about losing that information and making sure things are backed up. I know, paper could get wet and smudge, but if what you have in your notebook is important to you, trust me, you’ll protect it.

Any way you look at it, YOU NEED PAPER! It’s still the best practical way to remember and remind. Make paper your friend. It will not only help you in your endeavors but also open up a whole new world of it’s own.

Yes, we may have cellphones now, but that’s another topic for another time. :)

God? Evil???

2009-01-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

I was recently prompted to do some research when challenged with the claim that God is evil. Skeptics say that because evil must have come from somewhere, and God is creator of “all things” (remember this), that means that God is evil as well. Wanted to share with you all what I found. It’s really neat. :)

First off, this is a good site that shows how the Bible cannot be used to prove such a thing as truth -http://www.godandscience.org/apologetics/evil.html. In this sort of discussion, it is important not to confuse discipline with/as evil. When God punishes us, it is because we have done something wrong and because He loves us, and He knows that the path we are on will lead us somewhere that will harm us. God wants to protect us.

Next, as a little background information, lets look and see what the Bible says God created. In Ephesians 3:9 we read, “... which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ.”

Also, “For by him were all things created...” Colossians 1:16.

So, skeptics are right in saying that God created everything. However, I would like to emphasize the word “things” as I ask this question... Would evil be considered a thing?

Evil is not tangible. You can't pick it up or throw it around the room. You can't taste it in the sense that you taste food. And technically you can't even see evil. The only things we see are the effects of evil. The same goes with hearing. That doesn't qualify as a "thing." Check out the definition and let me know what you think.

As a conclusion to this post, I would like to share a story I found online that I hope will answer one if not all the questions raised with this post.

~~~~~~~

A University professor at a well-known institution of higher learning challenged his students with this question. "Did God create everything that exists?"

A student bravely replied "Yes he did."

"God created everything?" the professor asked. "Yes sir, he certainly did." the student replied.

The professor answered, "If God created everything, then God created evil. And since evil exists, and according to the principal that our works define who we are, then we can assume God is evil."

The student became quiet and did not answer the professor's hypothetical definition. The professor, quite pleased with himself, boasted to the students that he had proven once more that the Christian faith was a myth.

Another student raised his hand and said, "May I ask you a question, professor?"

"Of course," replied the professor.

The student stood up and asked, "Professor, does cold exist?"

"What kind of a question is this? Of course it exists. Have you never been cold?" The other students snickered at the young man's question.

The young man replied, "In fact sir, cold does not exist. According to the laws of physics, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat. Absolute zero (-460 F) is the total absence of heat; and all matter becomes inert and incapable of reaction at that temperature. Cold does not exist. We have created this word to describe how we feel if we have no heat.

The student continued, "Professor, does darkness exist?"

The professor responded, "Of course it does."

The student replied, "Once again you are wrong sir, darkness does not exist either. Darkness is in reality the absence of light. You cannot measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into a world of darkness and illuminate it. How can you know how dark a certain space is? You measure the amount of light present. Isn't this correct? Darkness is a term used by man to describe what happens when there is no light present."

Finally the young man asked the professor, "Sir, does evil exist?"

Now uncertain, the professor responded, "Of course, as I have already said, we see it everyday. It is in the daily examples of man's inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil."

To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist, sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat, or the darkness that comes when there is no light."

The professor had nothing to say.

~L.Pierce
“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord. -Isaiah 54:17

What's in a Name?

2009-01-10T11:34:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do when I start a story is choose a name for my main character(s). Personally, I love unique names, be it made up or overheard, but at times any name can be unique in it’s own way. Meanings are something I look at as well, though my readers may never know what the names of my characters mean from my story. There’s something about knowing something they still don’t about my characters that has appeal... Anyway, I’m going off on a rabbit trail. Back on track we go!

Names are rather important. Not only to you but also to your reader. A name is probably one of the most important first things they learn of your protagonist. So, it should be something -right alongside with who they are- that will make them hard to forget.

Do you ever notice how with people you know, their names somehow suit them? Try it! Think of someone you know well and try to picture them with another name. I have a friend named Timothy (Tim) who shared that one time he tried to go by his middle name, Ryan, but it never stuck because everyone knew and placed him as his first. If you knew him, too, Ryan just doesn’t fit. It’s like calling Bob the Cucumber or Larry the Tomato -not gonna happen! So, for your characters, a name can’t be just a name.

The protagonist in The Neverending Story had quite a name -Bastian Balthazar Bux. But, it was catchy! And how many people do you know that have a name starting with all the same letter? So, even in it’s oddity (or perhaps because of it), the reader (or viewer) is drawn into this story.

I suggest that when deciding on a name, you figure out what their full name will be. First, middle, and last. You may not find you need or even use them all, but you’ll have them nonetheless.

The first, middle, and last names should sound at least somewhat decent together too -or perhaps this is just me. I’m not saying that unique names can’t be used. Not in the least! As I said before, I love unique names. However, put those unique names with names that sound good together and you’ll have a character name that people will not soon forget. (See QFD below.)

And further, feel free to give meaning to their names in your story. It might not coincide with the actual meaning of the name itself, but this is a surefire way to give people a connection to your protagonist. The more the connection there is, the more unlikely it will be to put their (your) story down. For example, one of the names mentioned in the discussion below is Carrie Doll Sulverson. Perhaps people call her Doll because she looks like a Barbie Doll, or Dollie to connect her first and middle names.

See how much fun names can be? They’re like a mini story all on their own!

Nicknames I love as well. But, if you’re going to use them, I think it would be less confusing to rely on one above the other. If you choose to use the nickname, make it known what their full name is once if necessary (an example would be Isabella -Bella- Swan in Twilight page 16), but then use their nickname whenever you refer to them again (unless there is a reason to use it again -ie. a newcomer or stranger. Perhaps your protagonist doesn’t like people calling her by her nickname until she knows them.).

When working with more than one main character (specifically in couples), names matter all the more. Think of Romeo and Juliet. Everyone knows who they are! Their names, in a way, defined them. And notice how their names go together. Say them out loud... Now, if it were Reuben and Joan, somehow I don’t think that would have the same effect. Do you? It sounds callous in comparison. (No offense to any Reuben’s and Joan’s out there!)

So, in summary:
1) Don’t settle for what’s natural and ordinary because your characters are to be extraordinary. Their name is a big part of what make this known on paper.
2) Have all three names -first, middle, and last- set in stone before you start writing.
3) Say names out loud to hear if they work together. Above all though, keep in mind who your character will be, or even become, and select a name that you feel will suit them.
4) Nicknames should be an either-or decision in a story to prevent confusion. And,
5) Couples names might do well in sounding good together.

As a final point, consider the name of Jesus. God specifically selected this name. Why? Who can say for certain? But, God gives us a great example of the importance of a name. And, for Jesus, it set the bar for who He was to become.

QFD (Question for Discussion) ---What would you think about the name Carrie Doll Sulverson? How about Pari Ciara Luther? Give your opinion on them. Do they fulfill the things mentioned in this post? In what special ways could you use them in a book (Hint: this may require some research)? Now, come up with your own full name and post it for discussion.

Great links for finding names--- First names, http://www.behindthename.com/. Last names, http://www.last-names.net/.

Waiting.. Still Waiting

2009-01-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

At times the single life can be harrowing for a girl. Waiting for the one you’re intended to be with takes a lot of patience -patience at times I, for one, have lacked. So, I’d like to share some thoughts and ideas while you wait for your Prince that have helped keep me strong and will hopefully do the same for you when it doesn’t seem like you can make it.

I would like to first say that my relationship with Christ has helped me in this area tremendously. He loves me unconditionally and so strongly that that alone has been enough to get me through at times. And since I haven’t had a father around that knew how to hold my heart, God has always been there with a love like un-other to take his place better than anyone else can. Don’t know Him? I would highly recommend it.

Also, I believe fully that there are no coincidences and that God already has the one for me picked out. He has everything already set; the day I meet him, the moment I know he’s the one, the time I marry him. Everything. This too helps to think about.

“Serenity and inner beauty come when we wait upon God. 'Waiting' like that is not merely wasting time.” Eva Burrows

Other little thoughts:

~He/she must really be something if it’s taking so long... Either that, or they’re not anything special at all right now, so they need more time.

~Often times, we are prepared and tested to see if WE are ready for THEM; that can mean it’s us not being ready that prevents it coming to pass. Think of this waiting period as a time for you to grow. Be it in your relationship with God or your patience or even both. And don’t rush it (I know, it’s easier said than done at times). You don’t want to be anything but ready when it happens.

~Enjoy being single while it lasts. Once you leave it behind to start a family, you won’t ever be able to go back.

~I once heard it said that every time you touch or kiss someone or are touched or kissed by someone, you leave a fingerprint on them as they do on you. If they turn out not to be the guy, when you do find the one you’re going to spend the rest of your life with, do you want all these prints from someone other than him on you? (Oh, and just so you know, distance relationships of any kind are no different in this area.) I don’t say this to lay guilt on anyone, just to warn you to be careful. Unfortunately, I know this is true from personal experience. Stand above it.

Concerning dealing with the impatience:

~If you struggle, make sure you are making better use of your time. Have hobbies and goals to keep you busy outside of work (though work, if enjoyed, can be a good means too). Fill in the gaps so you aren’t left with extra time on your hands to dwell on it. This can only serve to make matters worse.

~Also, if you still struggle, limit if not completely remove the amount of romantic influence in your life. If you can’t handle a novel or a movie or even a magazine without it amplifying the yearning inside, stay away from them. You don’t need anything weighing you down and ridding you of the time you have now for other more important things.

~Take this time to do what you’ve always wanted to. If you want to be a writer, take that first step! If you wish to learn how to paint, find classes you can take when you have time! If you want to take up an instrument, start looking for a teacher! Benjamin Franklin makes a good point, “If time be of all things the most precious, wasting time must be the greatest prodigality.” Make it worth your while!

On a final note, there is a neat song I recommend... It’s called Princes and Frogs, by the guys of Superchick. It’s not only funny and creative, but it’s a great way to help you wait productively -in a way you won’t regret.

“All Princes start as frogs, all gentlemen as dogs. Just wait until it’s plain to see, what we’re growing up to be. ‘Cause some frogs will still be frogs, and some dogs will still be dogs. But some boys can become men, just don’t kiss us 'til then.” ~Princes and Frogs, Superchick

Resolute

2009-01-02T06:59:00.000-08:00

This time of year everyone is setting new Resolutions for 2009. Primarily, they are all for themselves though. “I want to lose weight, I want to get out of debt. I want to get published. I want this, oh, and that...”

Yet, how much more would it benefit us to do something for someone else? Or even to make it a point to think of others more this New Year? It would not only do us a heap of good, but would no doubt do the same for others and the world as a whole. You never know when someone could use an extra smile, hug, or encouragement. Or even just to know that someone is there that cares.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a crime to make goals for yourself... Just don’t get lost in them. Don’t get so wrapped up in them that you lose sight of everyone and everything around you.

I know someone that once told me in essence that they’d accomplished their goals for others one year. When I questioned them on it, they proceeded to explain that they had saved someone’s life. I asked, “So, is that it then? If you had the chance to save someone else’s life, you just wouldn’t?” It didn’t seem like they had really thought about it.

In sharing that, don’t put limits on what you do for others either. If ever you have the chance, take it! Never limit how much you can do for others because no money can buy feeling the way you do when you help someone or simply make them smile.

We American’s are a so richly blessed (Yes, even if we are in debt.. I can attest to this.). I was reminded the other day how much even a simple dishwasher is a blessing.

We all would do well not to forget it.

Premier and a New Beginning

2009-01-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

Hiya!

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably searched for something by way of the internet and

A) found what you weren’t looking for, or
B) discovered exactly what you were.

In either case, WELCOME TO MY BLOG!
This blog is my way of breaking into the blogging scene. My hope is for it to be helpful to you, the reader, as well as to become a place to share ideas, thoughts, emotions - whatever the occasion, whatever the moment. But first and foremost, my desire is for it to benefit and bless others.

Thanks to Tiffany Colter, writer and writing career coach, she introduced me to blogging through her Career Coaching program (see http://writingcareercoach.blogspot.com/ for more information) as a way to get my name out there. She said not to wait to breakout when you first get published, but now, using the best tool available -yourself. She taught me that one of the ways this can be done is through blogging. And so, here I am.

I won’t lie to you... You might cry, you might laugh, you might even boil with rage (though I intend not to tempt this reaction). You may have a “light bulb” moment every now and again or even disagree. You may like it, you may not. It’ll still be here... And I want your opinion on it, no matter what.

See, in case you haven’t been able to tell, I’m a writer. Another purpose for this blog will be not only to practice this craft and give you a taste of who I am as a person, a Christian, and a writer (and all three together), but also to share useful information; be it concerning lessons learned, adventures embarked upon, tips for writing, etc. -the list could go on and on. Simply, anything and everything under the sun. With every day comes a new experience; a new inspiration or test to overcome.

So, pull up a chair by the fire and make sure you have your hot beverage of choice nearby. Or lock yourself in the closet to escape the world. Whatever you prefer. I just hope you’ll stick around for a while. You’re always welcome. :)

~L. Pierce
Just breathe... God’ll do the rest.

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