It's amazing how people come into our lives for just a season whether it is for a second or for the rest of our lives. God is so amazing in the way He works different people into our lives for His glory and honor. It fascinates me how it so perfectly cultivates who it is he wants us to become. A great example is the torturous feeling of getting your heart broken. It's so hard to see the goodness of getting your heart broken until months later. I've realized how hard it is to see the beauty of the breakup until I'm actually out of it. Sometimes God allows that other person to break your heart so that you can fully "get out of it." It's true, God does bless the broken road so that you may be with the one you're meant to be with. Relationships are beautiful gifts given to us humans in his perfect timing. For quite some time I was lead to believe that relationships only occurred to make people feel good. However, lately I've realized that it foes deeper than that. It's about growing as a person with someone you genuinely care about, striving for the same goal. This goal is thanking God for the relationship with everything your relationships stands, from all your thoughts to all your actions. Some people have been misled to believe that it's all about themselves and getting what they want; whether it's sex, popularity, or fill in the blank. Being in a relationship requires for both parties to be selfless and willing to make compromises and more importantly following through with them. This initially requires respect for one another and their own self. With the three relationships that I've had each have taught me important lessons of life and have influence me to become a better person. With Joe i learned that it's possible to care a lot about a person but not fully be in love. With Chris I've learned that independence is essential in being in a relationship. Sinful pleasures are only temporary and come with hurtful consequences. Never make someone your priority when they're only your option. And as for the relationship I am in right now I've learned so much. I've learned what it means to fully love someone and the many ways to show it. A certain amount of months doesn't have to pass before you can tell someone that you love them. Patience is a true virtue. Each person has their insecurities but never let it get the best of your or your relationship because at the end of the day the things that occurred in the past brought you to where you are right now. Never regret anything because at one point in time it was what you wanted. God has blessed me tremendously with all these relationships. Brett has brought out the best in me in so many ways and I continually fall in love with him and his never ceasing love.
** The first two names were changed.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
it's not about you or me
It's amazing how often we take things for granted and under appreciate one another, whether it's a friend or a family member. What makes us think that we "deserve" what we get? I mean in all reality we shouldn't deserve anything right, because of our sinful nature, right? Everything should be received as a surprise. But yet, we as humans get so caught up with the here and now that we often forget that it's not about you or me, it's about the man upstairs. We should be grateful for every single blessing that he bestows upon us, no matter how big or small it may be. Perhaps this is just be blabbering but, it was on my heart so I figured to let it out. I respect your thoughts so give me some feedback, if you'd like. :)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Madeline: Thee Little Miss Sunshine (Final Blog JRN 215.)
Once upon a time there was a little girl by the name of Madeline. She had the biggest and deepest blue eyes than one had ever seen. She was the opposite of insipid in fact she was very impassioned in everything that she did. Though she was a young girl it did not stop people from looking up to her. She had a very keen personality, always enthusiastic and bubbly no matter how grey the skies turned. Everyone that met her admired her most for being so cunning. No matter how hard the task that was given to her she continued to stay determined in achieving her goals. When Madeline was not busy playing volleyball, practicing the piano, surfing, or spending time with her friends she was often seen telling stories to her little sister, Anna, for she was quite the raconteur. Anna enjoyed her sister’s stories the most because she told them in a colloquial which made it easy for Anna to comprehend. The only request that Madeline had from Anna for reading is that when she became tired that Anna would act in compliance and agree to go to be too.
Madeline’s story of the furious unicorn always made it difficult for Anna to comply with her older sister’s request. The story was the most popular out of all the events that Madeline had experienced. One day as Madeline was walking home from school she came across a unicorn that was stuck in an adhesive pile of molasses. Madeline was so shocked at this site for she had been imposed to accept that unicorns only appeared in fairytales. She had been raised from a conservative partisan that believed that things such as knights in shining armors, dwarfs, and unicorns only happened in the after life. “Am I dreaming or is this for real?”, Madeline asked herself. Before she could let her imagine further more a little dwarf jumped out of shrub nearby. “Well hello there miss! I am looking for a terrorist that skyjacked my plane. Have you seen anyone carrying any weapons?”, stated the dwarf. Madeline was terrified at this site not only because it was very unexpected but also, due to the fact that he was speaking nonsense as he waved a wand around. It was not long until she realized the dwarf had shrewd and possibly dangerous magical powers. Now, while all this was taking place the unicorn still remained in the pile of molasses. The unicorn tried to do everything in its power to get out of the mess however did not succeed. It was not until words of madness came out of the dwarf that that unicorn was set free. The little guy profligate his wand in unnecessary ways that caused it to slip out of his hand in land in the pile of molasses. The next few words of his mouth were not one of euphemism but instead forthright. His words were so cruel that it saddened the unicorn to death. The dwarf died right after due to painstaking heart attack.
And this was the story that Madeline told Anna whenever she needed some cheering. For some odd and twisted reason it always brought a smile to Anna’ s face.
THE END.
Madeline’s story of the furious unicorn always made it difficult for Anna to comply with her older sister’s request. The story was the most popular out of all the events that Madeline had experienced. One day as Madeline was walking home from school she came across a unicorn that was stuck in an adhesive pile of molasses. Madeline was so shocked at this site for she had been imposed to accept that unicorns only appeared in fairytales. She had been raised from a conservative partisan that believed that things such as knights in shining armors, dwarfs, and unicorns only happened in the after life. “Am I dreaming or is this for real?”, Madeline asked herself. Before she could let her imagine further more a little dwarf jumped out of shrub nearby. “Well hello there miss! I am looking for a terrorist that skyjacked my plane. Have you seen anyone carrying any weapons?”, stated the dwarf. Madeline was terrified at this site not only because it was very unexpected but also, due to the fact that he was speaking nonsense as he waved a wand around. It was not long until she realized the dwarf had shrewd and possibly dangerous magical powers. Now, while all this was taking place the unicorn still remained in the pile of molasses. The unicorn tried to do everything in its power to get out of the mess however did not succeed. It was not until words of madness came out of the dwarf that that unicorn was set free. The little guy profligate his wand in unnecessary ways that caused it to slip out of his hand in land in the pile of molasses. The next few words of his mouth were not one of euphemism but instead forthright. His words were so cruel that it saddened the unicorn to death. The dwarf died right after due to painstaking heart attack.
And this was the story that Madeline told Anna whenever she needed some cheering. For some odd and twisted reason it always brought a smile to Anna’ s face.
THE END.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Enduring the rough times
It is the year 2009. Though it is just beginning there have been drastic changes in the American society, from the leadership of presidency to the downfall of our economy. The change of society has their pros and cons. However, in regards to the economy it has had nothing but negative effects. It has affected everyone in some way, including those who are not employed.
On Sunday, March 8, 2009, Fox News released an article, “Time Tough for Recession’s Walking Wounded.” The article discussed the effects that several employees have suffered due to the downfall of the economy. More and more employers are being laid off due to not enough funds from the company to pay them. This time of desperation has affected not only the employed but also the unemployed. Families are finding it more difficult to get by and provide for their family. The definition of sacrifice has changed. People now have to sacrifice things they like to do for fun. The number of trips to the movie theatres are starting to decrease due to the price of the tickets. In the article one man stated that he has,” quit traveling to see his daughter and grandchild in Las Vegas. He’s stopped seeing movies and eating out.” This is an example of the unemployed being affected by the downfall of the economy. Budgeting has become more vital than ever. Fox news reported that, “More than 4.5 million workers last year depended at least partly on variable pay, which includes tips and commissions, according to Labor Department figures. Meanwhile, the number of workers forced into part-time instead of full-time work soared 65 percent in the past year.”
Thankfully, the poor economy has not effected my family and I too much. However, there are several people that I know that have been greatly affected by this. During the summer of 2008, a close friend of mine had her house taken back by the government. It was a very hard time for her and her family because it happened so suddenly. It is unfortunate how things like these happen but God continues to provide. It may not always be easy, in fact, dealing with money is probably one of the most challenging struggles that a person may go through, but it is possible to overcome.
Romans 5:3-5, “but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”
On Sunday, March 8, 2009, Fox News released an article, “Time Tough for Recession’s Walking Wounded.” The article discussed the effects that several employees have suffered due to the downfall of the economy. More and more employers are being laid off due to not enough funds from the company to pay them. This time of desperation has affected not only the employed but also the unemployed. Families are finding it more difficult to get by and provide for their family. The definition of sacrifice has changed. People now have to sacrifice things they like to do for fun. The number of trips to the movie theatres are starting to decrease due to the price of the tickets. In the article one man stated that he has,” quit traveling to see his daughter and grandchild in Las Vegas. He’s stopped seeing movies and eating out.” This is an example of the unemployed being affected by the downfall of the economy. Budgeting has become more vital than ever. Fox news reported that, “More than 4.5 million workers last year depended at least partly on variable pay, which includes tips and commissions, according to Labor Department figures. Meanwhile, the number of workers forced into part-time instead of full-time work soared 65 percent in the past year.”
Thankfully, the poor economy has not effected my family and I too much. However, there are several people that I know that have been greatly affected by this. During the summer of 2008, a close friend of mine had her house taken back by the government. It was a very hard time for her and her family because it happened so suddenly. It is unfortunate how things like these happen but God continues to provide. It may not always be easy, in fact, dealing with money is probably one of the most challenging struggles that a person may go through, but it is possible to overcome.
Romans 5:3-5, “but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Untouched and Intact
Cherish every single moment you have with them, even the silly moments.
Take your time when taking long walks. Walk side by side even if that means slowing or hurrying your space.
Learn to compromise.
Relationships are not easy. I repeat, relationships are not easy.
Love one another through even the worst times.
Respect each other’s feelings, morals, and values.
Make time for each other even if it means taking some time away from your friends.
Under no circumstance is it okay, to cheat on someone.
Always keep your heart guarded, but know when to let them in.
Pride and ego are things that we as humans struggle with but regardless of this fact never let it get the best of you.
Because in the end you will only hurt the both of you.
Realize that people can and do change whether you may approve of it or not.
It is impossible for relationships to be successful if both parties are not willing to put in the same effort.
Remember that in order to be a boyfriend/girlfriend you must first know how to be a friend.
The longer you are with a person the harder it may be to love them. [Yes, believe it or not love is more than a feeling. It’s what’s left when being in love fades.]
This is true due to the fact that you’ve been together for so long they know that you will always love them even if they do hurt you.
Be careful when you do this because taking a person for granted is one thing no one should ever do.
I pray that you will never realize what you have until it’s gone.
Loving someone requires risking getting your heart broken.
You may ask yourself, than why is it worth it? Good question.
Love is beautiful but also very painful at times.
When you’re half way out the door you’re going to look back at all the memories you had together and wonder, “where did we go wrong?”
If you did your best at loving that person you hopefully won’t go down this path but if you do know that you did nothing wrong. It wasn’t your fault.
You can only do so much for another person.
Be assertive on who you invest your time, energy, and love with.
Above all remember, that we all yearn to be loved. So love as you would have others love you.
Take your time when taking long walks. Walk side by side even if that means slowing or hurrying your space.
Learn to compromise.
Relationships are not easy. I repeat, relationships are not easy.
Love one another through even the worst times.
Respect each other’s feelings, morals, and values.
Make time for each other even if it means taking some time away from your friends.
Under no circumstance is it okay, to cheat on someone.
Always keep your heart guarded, but know when to let them in.
Pride and ego are things that we as humans struggle with but regardless of this fact never let it get the best of you.
Because in the end you will only hurt the both of you.
Realize that people can and do change whether you may approve of it or not.
It is impossible for relationships to be successful if both parties are not willing to put in the same effort.
Remember that in order to be a boyfriend/girlfriend you must first know how to be a friend.
The longer you are with a person the harder it may be to love them. [Yes, believe it or not love is more than a feeling. It’s what’s left when being in love fades.]
This is true due to the fact that you’ve been together for so long they know that you will always love them even if they do hurt you.
Be careful when you do this because taking a person for granted is one thing no one should ever do.
I pray that you will never realize what you have until it’s gone.
Loving someone requires risking getting your heart broken.
You may ask yourself, than why is it worth it? Good question.
Love is beautiful but also very painful at times.
When you’re half way out the door you’re going to look back at all the memories you had together and wonder, “where did we go wrong?”
If you did your best at loving that person you hopefully won’t go down this path but if you do know that you did nothing wrong. It wasn’t your fault.
You can only do so much for another person.
Be assertive on who you invest your time, energy, and love with.
Above all remember, that we all yearn to be loved. So love as you would have others love you.
Live. Love. Be
Timing is everything. Swinging too early can lead to striking out. Making a move can lead To just a first date. Reacting too fast can result to blowing things out of proportion. A friend once reminded me that most people who come into our lives usually just stay for a season. Whether that season lasts for a month or a person's lifetime the time, is inevitable. Perhaps this is the reason why somefind it difficult to begin a deep and intimate relationship with another person. Though it may be hard to open up to another individual it is important to recognize thatthough we may look different on the outside we are not that much different within.Each person has had their fair share of hurt, humiliation, and disappointments. And if not, will come across those bumps. Therefore, it is important that each individual puts a reasonable effort in creating a firm solid relationship, even if it requires you to put your guard and pride down. Yes, there will be times when you will find yourself frustrated and disappointed with the other party. When packages like these, whether big or small, coming knocking at your door handle them with the care. And remember that no one is perfect.Yes, it will hurt. It will hurt so muchthat you may find it difficult to trust that person again and even more, hard to open up to the next person that pays a visit to the crazy beautiful life of yours. Regardless of how painful it may be it is important to realize that a lack of trust and the holding back of emotionsfeelings can and, eventually will push a person away; whether you like it or not. So, you ask what can I do to deal with the fear of heartache and still feel comfortable letting a person in? My advice to you is this, be cautious but still be open-minded and willing. Trust all but, armor yourself with courage, strength, and patience. Courage to expect the disappointments. Courage to be comfortable to wear your heart on your sleeve.The strength to overcome the disappointments and realize everything will be ok in the end. Keep in mind that if you aren't ok, then you certainly haven't seen the light of the sun at the end of the tunnel. And last but definitely not least, is patience. Patience is a necessary ingredient in creating A strong and healthy relationship. Patience to allow the other person to make mistakes here and there, with the knowledge that you yourself have screwed up before patience to understand that it isn't always easy for people to open up, perhaps due to the many obstacles they have endured. So to conclude to these thoughts.. Expect for the worst but, still hope for the best. Live like you will never be able to see the ones you love again. Love how you dream to be loved. And, give as much to others as you want people to give to you,whether it is time, patience, faith, or respect. Live. Love.Be
How To: Have a Successful Date- special segment for men. (Yearbook Production Class)
Before I begin explaining the process of creating a perfect date I would like to explain something within the title. No date is going to be 100% perfect. However, that does not mean that the way you plan things cannot be 100% perfect in your mind. I thought that I should add this precaution so that in the future I do not get accused of someone’s “perfect date” being flawless. Now moving on to the bigger picture. There is no denying that each person ponders about what events would take place on his or her perfect date. Men, with this said I will now illustrate the steps of wooing that girl, who you will be thinking about while reading this article. [;
STEP 1: Decide who you want to share this special time with. Yes, this does me that you have to choose only one girl from that list of yours. I repeat, ONE. Be wise in the decision you make because you are the one who is going to be spending the money. So for the sake of both of you make your time together worthwhile.
STEP 2: When deciding what events you would like to have take place on this date there is a couple of things you should keep in mind. The first thing is the woman’s likes and dislikes. For example, if a girl does not enjoy watching sports than do not take her to a sporting event. Yes, it would be a fun experience for a guy like yourself but bottom line is you are the one trying to make her happy. Save that those tickets to go with the guys. The second thing that you should keep in mind is the weather. I know its a simple thought but it’s one that is too often not considered. Now that you have taken these two precautions decide what kind of things your woman would enjoy. Ideas to consider: a picnic, a nice dinner followed by a walk on the beach, a trip to Disneyland. These are just a few things that would possibly amaze your lady. However, with this said plan something that will also be fun for you.
STEP 3: Now that you have finally gotten the plans together you are ready for the big day. Well maybe not fully ready but somewhat confident about the date than when you first started planning. First things first. Make sure your personal hygiene is at its best.
STEP 4: Step three is just as important as step four so read carefully. MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON TIME. I cannot stress how important that is. No woman wants an irresponsible man. Men forewarning: your lady may not be ready on time. You may be thinking, “Well then how is it fine for them to be late and not us?” To cut to the chase: that is simply beyond the point.
(Optional) STEP 5: If you bring flowers for your lady you will get extra kudos. This is not something that you have to do but I am just throwing it out there.
STEP 6: Open her car door.
STEP 7: Whatever you have planned to do that night whether it is dinner, movies, bowling, etc., be prepared to pay. There will be times when she will offer to pay (if you get a cool girl that is). You can let her pay every now and then but never ever take advantage of such an act of kindness.
STEP 8: While on your date make sure to not text or answer phone calls unless it is extremely necessary.
STEP 9: Compliment her every now and then. Just make sure not to excessively do so. You want to flatter her not scare her.
STEP 10: It is that time that you dread. The date slowly comes to an end. When dropping her off. (Optional: walk over to her side of the car and open her door. This will get you extra kudos points.) Walk her to her door. Now, you may be thinking: should I kiss her? Honestly, the call is all yours. If you feel like the night went well and she was not giving you awkward vibes then I would say go for it! But if a part of you feels like she was giving you weird vibes then I would say refrain from the kiss.
STEP 11: You can now relax. You accomplished what most men do not feel like that cannot do. Planned a successful date!
STEP 12: Depending on how things went, you have permission to plan another date. Good luck, gentlemen! (;
STEP 1: Decide who you want to share this special time with. Yes, this does me that you have to choose only one girl from that list of yours. I repeat, ONE. Be wise in the decision you make because you are the one who is going to be spending the money. So for the sake of both of you make your time together worthwhile.
STEP 2: When deciding what events you would like to have take place on this date there is a couple of things you should keep in mind. The first thing is the woman’s likes and dislikes. For example, if a girl does not enjoy watching sports than do not take her to a sporting event. Yes, it would be a fun experience for a guy like yourself but bottom line is you are the one trying to make her happy. Save that those tickets to go with the guys. The second thing that you should keep in mind is the weather. I know its a simple thought but it’s one that is too often not considered. Now that you have taken these two precautions decide what kind of things your woman would enjoy. Ideas to consider: a picnic, a nice dinner followed by a walk on the beach, a trip to Disneyland. These are just a few things that would possibly amaze your lady. However, with this said plan something that will also be fun for you.
STEP 3: Now that you have finally gotten the plans together you are ready for the big day. Well maybe not fully ready but somewhat confident about the date than when you first started planning. First things first. Make sure your personal hygiene is at its best.
STEP 4: Step three is just as important as step four so read carefully. MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON TIME. I cannot stress how important that is. No woman wants an irresponsible man. Men forewarning: your lady may not be ready on time. You may be thinking, “Well then how is it fine for them to be late and not us?” To cut to the chase: that is simply beyond the point.
(Optional) STEP 5: If you bring flowers for your lady you will get extra kudos. This is not something that you have to do but I am just throwing it out there.
STEP 6: Open her car door.
STEP 7: Whatever you have planned to do that night whether it is dinner, movies, bowling, etc., be prepared to pay. There will be times when she will offer to pay (if you get a cool girl that is). You can let her pay every now and then but never ever take advantage of such an act of kindness.
STEP 8: While on your date make sure to not text or answer phone calls unless it is extremely necessary.
STEP 9: Compliment her every now and then. Just make sure not to excessively do so. You want to flatter her not scare her.
STEP 10: It is that time that you dread. The date slowly comes to an end. When dropping her off. (Optional: walk over to her side of the car and open her door. This will get you extra kudos points.) Walk her to her door. Now, you may be thinking: should I kiss her? Honestly, the call is all yours. If you feel like the night went well and she was not giving you awkward vibes then I would say go for it! But if a part of you feels like she was giving you weird vibes then I would say refrain from the kiss.
STEP 11: You can now relax. You accomplished what most men do not feel like that cannot do. Planned a successful date!
STEP 12: Depending on how things went, you have permission to plan another date. Good luck, gentlemen! (;
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