tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11150090515102556102024-03-05T05:14:32.318-08:00Forever ChangedAnd I shall have Mercy on No Mercy. And I shall say to Not My People, you are my people, and they shall to Me, you are my God.Sarah Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741057219441363063noreply@blogger.comBlogger571125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-11437241973031046832017-05-07T19:13:00.001-07:002017-05-07T19:13:22.394-07:00Isn't it Funny How....?Isn't it funny how <i>Hamilton </i>kind of opened my eyes to how amazing the Broadway world is? I mean, not many people like musicals, but when it comes down to it, they really are the best pieces of art that the human mind can imagine. The music is genius and beautiful, the stories are life-changing, the characters are relatable. Through song. <br />
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You don't even have to go to a musical to experience it. You can just listen to the cast recording and picture the characters in your head.Isn't that... just, amazing?<br />
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This is currently one of my favorite musicals and songs... of all time. It's called "Waving Through a Window" from <i>Dear Evan Hansen </i>and it basically defines me. Even if you don't like musicals, chances are, you'll relate to this piece. Give it a try; trust me.<br />
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On the outside always looking in<br />Will I ever be more than I've always been?<br />'cause I'm tap, tap, tapping on the glass<br />I'm waving through a window<br />I try to speak, but nobody can hear<br />So I wait around for an answer to appear....</div>
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While I'm watch, watch, watching people pass</div>
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Waving through a window.</div>
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Note: I'm about to get back on blogging soon, so stay tune for more posts. I have some cool ideas I can't wait to share with you?</div>
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Sarah Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741057219441363063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-59619602882527439152017-04-04T19:54:00.001-07:002017-04-04T20:36:22.033-07:00Don't Miss It Today, my best friend had a little get together for her birthday.. I can't remember why, but suddenly, we were talking about texting someone who is right beside you. Most of the girls said they do it all the time (and yes, I am guilty as well), but no one was scolded for it. Because, why? When cell phones were just coming out, that idea would have been pointless to most. Not so much anymore.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bFbN5QuXv1GYyRaDB97JewiTgUa_fig6szFVjCR3ZEFeGnq1ANLePn7PQngWRlFmcJ0blFvVNZeV-6ENBIkrPiWmlwhXRSUaQi7FTHiRkVANmkU-l-swqmMMvhK1oPaHnu4SIpMA_O4/s1600/IMG_1851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_bFbN5QuXv1GYyRaDB97JewiTgUa_fig6szFVjCR3ZEFeGnq1ANLePn7PQngWRlFmcJ0blFvVNZeV-6ENBIkrPiWmlwhXRSUaQi7FTHiRkVANmkU-l-swqmMMvhK1oPaHnu4SIpMA_O4/s320/IMG_1851.JPG" width="320" /></a> My iPod has been slowly detereating. It has stopped working, one app at a time, haha. Sure, I do more than my fair share on my latop and Ellie's device, but outside of the house, I'm usually without technology. Honestly, it's truly opened my eyes to see how much we use it. I've seen even the cloest friends ever, sitting next to each other, staring at their screens.<br />
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I've seen how it can affect people, especially if someone happens to be on social media. I love the idea of Instagram, but at times, it causes more problems than I can expect. Suddenly, I'm wishing my pictures were that perfect, longing for friendships I want but don't have, and getting a backstage pass to every get-together I wasn't invited to.<br />
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I would be a complete hypocrite if I called for a technology boycott. But I do think we need to consider what we're missing out. We can think of every reason we want for why we text our friends when we're in the same room together, but let's face it: they're all excuses. Excuses that are keeping us from living our lives. Trust me, I know how useful texting can be. But if we do that more than we actually talk to people, our friendships won't be nearly as solid. <br />
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Worse, they'll be artificial. Just like texting is. It's about as close you can get to the real thing, but it's not the same as talking, really talking. I might be able to read the words, but I can't hear my friend's voice. I can only guess if she's in a good mood or not. Recently, a good friend and I have fallen out of the habit of texting and when I see her in person, I feel distant from her. Sometimes, I scold myself. Is that all our friendship is worth?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwaeJWyRdRj2nc0JipC6vdbZbeqTTD360vM2pCHlFBfae6Sk4ZcGjtb1I_H8s84ZX5lkN0VpjznkH8QFtsU_m8Qicprj0fz5275GRpcIngvp6295Y3yoIgITyqfI0XAJYo2PYnj3_knE/s1600/IMG_1851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a> These thoughts remind me of a lady from our old church. I only talked to her a few times, but recently, she was diagnosed with sereve Parkinson's, so bad lost the ability to talk. I barely knew her, but my heart ached as soon as I found out. It made me feel terrible. There, I was, shutting the world out and listening to music when I could be spending laughing with my family. And there was a lady I knew, who could never laugh again.<br />
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So I challenge you and I challenge myself. Go out of your way this week, to spend time with people. Use your voice to laugh, to encourage others, to brighten someone's day. Think of it this way, if God wanted us just to communicate through a little device and keyboard, He would have made sure everyone had one. But He didn't. He gave us voices. Don't miss your chance to use yours. <br />
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<b><i>So how has technology affected your life? Good stuff and bad stuff, just lay it all out. I'll be happy to chat with you :)</i></b> <br />
Thanks to everyone who read and commented on my last post, btw.</div>
Sarah Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15741057219441363063noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-40502315341159033582017-03-12T12:12:00.000-07:002017-03-12T12:12:15.472-07:005 Excuses Introverts Make to Avoid ConversationsI return to blogging to discuss a subject I know well: the topic of introvert-ness.<br />
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In truth, I wouldn't call myself a full-out introvert. Instead, circumstances have made me a "wanna-be extrovert" introvert. Makes a lot of sense, right? Last year, we started going to a new church. Though I love the church, it's forced me to make new friends (dun dun dun) and (worse) go up to people and start a conversation. "dramatic gasp" Now, we do "church things" about 3-4 nights a week on average. <br />
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Meaning: I have to be sociable on a regular basic. Of course, in my book, "sociable" actually means: sitting in a room full of people talking and trying to work up the courage to go to say hi to someone. Yeah, it's a struggle. My mind is basically in civil war because how can I be pretend to be a extrovert and stay true to my introvert self? Pretty much, I have a lot of conflicting thoughts in the process.<br />
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So I present to you: the <b>Top 5 Excuses I Make to Myself in order to Avoid Conversations. </b>Because, let's face it: being an introvert is hard. Working up the courage to talk to new people, keeping up conversations, ugh, it's tiring. If you're in a introvert, I'm sure you'll relate to some of these. And if you're of the other species (jk), maybe you'll understand us introverts a little better.<br />
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1. <b>"I could go talk to Friend B right now. But I just had a long conversation w/ Friend A. I should probably hold it off. Don't want to overdo it here." *nervous laughter*</b></div>
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This is probably my go-to excuse because I usually can keep up a long conversation with one good friend. Groups are a different story. And besides, there's nothing more satisfying to a awkward introvert than having a long, satisfying conversation with a friend where you actually enjoyed yourself.</div>
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2. <b>*looks around the room and only sees one good friend sitting alone* "I could go talk to her, but I just remembered that I talked to her two days ago. Let's not; I don't want to be the annoying one."</b><br />
No, I really don't.<br />
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3. <b>"Look, there's five different friends I could be talking to right now. But why would I want to do that when I could be reading my book/playing the piano/writing that one thing?" </b><br />
Like I said, our family spends a lot of time in church. Yes, we're primarily listening to God's word being preached. But our second priority is talking to our friends. Also known as, my family talks to their friends and I sit there contemplating whether I should go to talk to my friends. Usually, I give in to this urge, but sometimes, it gets too much for my brain. Fortunately, there is a beautiful grand piano sitting on the stage that I wander up to and play while waiting for them. Because my piano at home does <i>not </i>sound that great, and you have to keep your priorities straight, peoples. </div>
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4. <b>*debating over whether I should talk to that one person or not* "You know, I just remembered I have to do that one totally insignificant thing. Why don't I just do that now because that would be so much more fun than having an awkward conversation?</b><b>"</b></div>
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About 85.962% of the conversations I avoid is because of my strong fear of awkwardness. It's a understood fear since I have to lead half of the conversations I get myself into. Which is much more difficult than it sounds, as I will explain in my final point.</div>
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5. "<b>Yes, yes, I could go talk to several people right now and have a jolly good time. But what if they're feeling talkative and I have to lead the conversation and I don't know what to say and the silence goes on longer than 3.2 seconds?" </b></div>
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Goodness, I'm sweating just thinking about it. Silence, it makes me sick, especially when it's my fault. Despite that I'm a creative writer, I like to keep it safe. No need to make myself look stupid. Of course, my fear of awkwardness usually leads me into <i>being </i>awkward around my friends. I need a new strategy, obviously.</div>
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I've hoped you've enjoyed an exclusive backstage pass to my insecure little head. I've enjoyed getting honest with myself, haha. Anyways, do you make any of these excuses as an introvert? Or do you have different ways to avoid conversation? On the other hand, if you're an extrovert, how do you do it? Haha, I hope you guys take a moment to comment. I'm excited to get back on blogging and read what you have to say :) Creds to Ellie, for providing some awesome guitar music while I was writing this.</div>
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-76986477290918941242017-01-29T18:25:00.001-08:002017-01-29T18:25:14.134-08:00You're Not AloneHello. It's me again. I've decided to truly return to blogging. I know I've said this a lot, but I really do mean to stay on this time. Thank you to everyone who commented on my last Hamilton post. Writing that was so much fun, just because I feel so passionately about that musical. Maybe that's what I need to do to stay committed; write what I'm passionately about.<br />
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I almost wish I could say my life was going "same old, same old", but the truth is, it's not. And I'm not quite sure how I feel about that. We've been going to a new church, which is probably the best change I've experienced. The people there are... amazing. I've learned so much about life, about Jesus, about myself.<br />
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But on the other hand, change has really hurt me. Just late last year, we practically had to say goodbye to some friends I'd basically grown up with. And it still hurts, thinking about them. It was one of those things that you never want to change, but you know it will, eventually. When it finally did, I didn't know what to do. It's gotten better; I've made new friends. But I still feel a little empty every now and then.<br />
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But of course, the biggest problem of all might be that I don't know who I am. I thought I did--I was so sure--but now I don't. Now, I really don't know anything. I thought I knew what I wanted to do, what I wanted to write, who my best friends were, what the future would be like.<br />
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But I don't. <br />
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However, I'm working on it. I just started on my first solo writing project for the first time in years. I feel pretty sure about this one, if not the only thing I'm sure about. Things have changed, I might not know where I'm going or who I am, but I know some things stay the same. I still write, just not as much. I adore music with my every breath, even more now. I love my family; I love the friends I have. Maybe that's enough to get me by for now.<br />
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So I'm just guessing here, but you might be like me. You might not know where you're going with your life or if anything is going to work out. But it's ok, believe me. You'll figure it out. That's what I'm sure of, by the grace of God, I will figure it out. <br />
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You're not alone. <br />
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Love,<br />
Sarah<br />
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<br />Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-62686089730512671602016-11-05T17:29:00.000-07:002016-11-05T17:33:56.323-07:00What's Your Name Man?: A Hamilton ReviewHello friends!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg879mgmBV3AHAy3qQKSIX0Kni-5C6NG_E8xr0B3W0luJJfijVlRRJfGKCX5IqfWHvbILiHmcRixDj6YjUq4h0lhjyqJ8o885lHaCvgcLsLWHuY0G_q_AUGzEZNvu8wjSKIILwiJbpYBf0/s1600/hamilton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg879mgmBV3AHAy3qQKSIX0Kni-5C6NG_E8xr0B3W0luJJfijVlRRJfGKCX5IqfWHvbILiHmcRixDj6YjUq4h0lhjyqJ8o885lHaCvgcLsLWHuY0G_q_AUGzEZNvu8wjSKIILwiJbpYBf0/s200/hamilton.jpg" width="200" /></a>I know, I know, I haven't been on here in forever, but I hope you look past that fact enough to read this post. I've had severe writer's block, I suppose you could say? But I finally feel inspired enough to get back on here again, to share something very special with you.<br />
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Weeks ago, I was introduced to a Broadway show called <i>Hamilton. </i>Before then, I'd only seen the album on the iTunes charts. Like most things, it had to grow on me, but in days, I was obsessed. I can't get enough of it. And I know why understand many feel the same way I do.<br />
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ABOUT: Hamilton is a Broadway Musical "about America now, told by America now", hence the amazing African American and Puerto Rican actors playing our respectable founding fathers. It tells the story of a less well-known American, our first Treasurer Alexander Hamilton. Most people know him from being on the ten dollar bill, if that. But most people aren't aware that Alexander was a orphan from the Caribbean, was George Washington's "Right Hand Man" and literately "wrote his way out" out of nearly every tragic situation he faced. The play and the music was written by a musical genius named Lin-Manuel Miranda, who spent <i>eight years </i>writing it. <br />
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THE CHARACTERS:<br />
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ALEXANDER HAMILTON (Lin-Manuel Miranda): Right away, we learn that Hamilton has come from a tragic past. His mother died with of a fever that almost killed him too. A hurricane destroyed his home-town in the Caribbean. Since his mother died, he had no family until marrying his wife Eliza. (Philippa Soo)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWoYBhOouhZGlp_8H8H3RPj73rBswX3kcN6mFG3MMeqzjo-rhMJENE9mcApxgiqfB1_VVVWCJJSSU2fAwqLAtEw4kMYJtY83rXQBw04vUksFqXvHC1gvu8lDPiWMYom1ynqBmMrCod_s/s1600/hamilton+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWoYBhOouhZGlp_8H8H3RPj73rBswX3kcN6mFG3MMeqzjo-rhMJENE9mcApxgiqfB1_VVVWCJJSSU2fAwqLAtEw4kMYJtY83rXQBw04vUksFqXvHC1gvu8lDPiWMYom1ynqBmMrCod_s/s200/hamilton+5.jpg" width="200" /></a>As much as I love everyone in <br />
this play, Hamilton was my favorite. First of all, he's a headstrong writer. At least in the play, he's a lady's man. You'd expect him to marry a woman with a fiery heart like his. Instead, he falls in love with Eliza, who's just about as good as any person can be. It's not a cheesy story: Hamilton truly came from nothing and worked his way to finding a family, a country, and something worth fighting for<br />
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Favorite Line: UGH EVERYTHING. But I think he had me at, "I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory."<br />
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AARON BURR (Leslie Odom Jr.) : Don't know his name? He was the Vice President under Thomas Jefferson. Pretty quickly, we learn that he was the one who killed Hamilton in a duel. "Well, if you love Hamilton, you hate Burr, right?" Actually no. Like Hamilton, Burr's an orphan who's basically lost everyone in his life. He wants to do great things, but he refuses to make a move until he's sure it's the right one. But he's so elegant and poetic and I just love him too, ok?<br />
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Favorite Line: Life doesn't discriminate between the sinners and saints, it takes, and it takes, and it takes...<br />
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THE MUSIC:<br />
From hip-hop to show-tunes, this musical has everything genre-wise. But the lyrics are the best. Here's just a taste of the poetry I'm talking about:<br />
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"<i>You built me palaces out of paragraphs, you built cathedrals." -</i>Eliza Hamilton,<i> </i>"Burn"</div>
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<i>"If you stand for nothing, Burr, what you'll fall for?"-</i>Alexander<i> </i>(Actually a real quote)</div>
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<i>"Dying is easy, young man, living is much harder." -</i>George Washington<i> (also real. </i>May I mention that this play was extremely well researched?)</div>
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<i>"We dream of a brand new start, but we dream in the dark for the most part."-</i>Burr, "The Room Where it Happens<br />
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<i>"What is a legacy? It's planting seeds in a garden you never get to see." </i>-"The World Was Wide Enough)</div>
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The catchiest songs include:<br />
My Shot (CLEAN VER<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQd68iqFFvQ_57YAd9dpwscEUTTZlM8a_zylngEO2D6W6TkeI2HNvFtLIXZqj5-ZJ85ddDKQQnqutLjK-zAKrY6_yC3rskTd1MhDheq5TiILDSAEKYnAlweGQMdeG94terQDgF77v1ps/s1600/eliza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQd68iqFFvQ_57YAd9dpwscEUTTZlM8a_zylngEO2D6W6TkeI2HNvFtLIXZqj5-ZJ85ddDKQQnqutLjK-zAKrY6_yC3rskTd1MhDheq5TiILDSAEKYnAlweGQMdeG94terQDgF77v1ps/s200/eliza.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a>SION) (basically Hamilton meeting his friends and his philosophy on life)<br />
The Room Where it Happens (This song is legit the coolest song in the musical, with Aaron Burr, of course)<br />
Guns and Ships (about Layfette, this song contains the best rapping)<br />
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The Sweetest Songs include:<br />
Helpless (the song about Eliza meeting Alexander<br />
Dear Theodisa (This is sung by Alexander and Aaron Burr to their children; it's basically the prettiest thing)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQd68iqFFvQ_57YAd9dpwscEUTTZlM8a_zylngEO2D6W6TkeI2HNvFtLIXZqj5-ZJ85ddDKQQnqutLjK-zAKrY6_yC3rskTd1MhDheq5TiILDSAEKYnAlweGQMdeG94terQDgF77v1ps/s1600/eliza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>And of course, the theme song "Alexander Hamilton" is amazing. though it does include a few mild words. Look up a clean version for that one.</div>
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THE BEST PARTS:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-DqQbGdJIvQ7Gkraxa7ldWmtiWvF8TvmHemrk7cjhZLc6mJjtoWBNtgpzJMkLxn62Mv4jAIqMqKrAkrmA_z0NeDxZXgd2JEY5Y5VCup5xS7nYZYl8EWFC5jA4PTetC4iuzrmzkRNOls/s1600/hamilton+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-DqQbGdJIvQ7Gkraxa7ldWmtiWvF8TvmHemrk7cjhZLc6mJjtoWBNtgpzJMkLxn62Mv4jAIqMqKrAkrmA_z0NeDxZXgd2JEY5Y5VCup5xS7nYZYl8EWFC5jA4PTetC4iuzrmzkRNOls/s200/hamilton+3.jpg" width="200" /></a>First of all, it portrays every character with their own music style according to their own historical character. For example, we have Layfette, who's from France. At first, he's stumbling around with his English while rapping in this awesome French accent. And then a few songs later, when he gets the hang of the language, he's suddenly busting out these really fast, cool lyrics that are awesome, doing a better job than the English men.</div>
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Also, I love the feminism. A lot of times, I don't agree with how our culture has presented it. "Yeah, strong women know martial arts and can body slam anyone!" That is not the case here. The girls aren't telling everyone women should leave their children and join the frontlines asap. They're simply saying that women's ideas should be respected just as much as men's are. I think that's something we all can agree with.</div>
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There's no clear bad guy in <i>Hamilton. </i>In fact, most everyone believes in the same thing. They all want America to prosper; they believe in freedom and justice. They all have different ways of going about it. No founding father is perfect, as we learn, even George Washington. In any other form of literature, he's portrayed to be our all-knowing leader of our country. But in <i>Hamilton, </i>he's just a honorable man trying not to make the same mistakes. At one point, Washington tells Hamilton that he led his men into massacre in his younger years. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nH7wtufMELivhtladfQGgAPqA7giC_V55r8l0XBHwq8RGyeZAyjoBoxKM8Jq7kHAH7Vw30xkIWY3_cGcFtugyinpKP3ICXwxW4nvASKpYrnFi9AbwwZ9XJwYh1dpCBg50PumGQCP_K8/s1600/squad+of+1781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nH7wtufMELivhtladfQGgAPqA7giC_V55r8l0XBHwq8RGyeZAyjoBoxKM8Jq7kHAH7Vw30xkIWY3_cGcFtugyinpKP3ICXwxW4nvASKpYrnFi9AbwwZ9XJwYh1dpCBg50PumGQCP_K8/s200/squad+of+1781.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9nH7wtufMELivhtladfQGgAPqA7giC_V55r8l0XBHwq8RGyeZAyjoBoxKM8Jq7kHAH7Vw30xkIWY3_cGcFtugyinpKP3ICXwxW4nvASKpYrnFi9AbwwZ9XJwYh1dpCBg50PumGQCP_K8/s1600/squad+of+1781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>But I think the best message <i>Hamilton </i>offers is its lesson about legacy. From the first song, Hamilton's goal is to "die in glory", to leave his mark on the world. As it turns out, his own ambition spurs him on to make his biggest mistakes. His biggest fear is rejection, so much that his actions to avoid it nearly destroy his family. In the end, he dies for what he believes in, killed in a duel that not many people remember. He saves America from debt, though he is rarely credited for his efforts. If this musical teaches anything, it's this: We need to let our legacy take care of itself. We can't control what how people will react; all we can do is choose to do what's right.<br />
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CONS:</div>
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Unfortunately, <i>Hamilton</i> is not without faults. In fact, the biggest one is the language. Since this musical is hip-hop influence, it does include some pretty bad profanities. Fortunately, there is a clean version of the album that blocks the worst stuff out. So, if you chose to listen, make sure it's the right album. There's a catch to this too: It doesn't block out <i>everything. </i>The album is basically a little better than an Avengers movie. But if you overlook that, the musical is still a poetic, unique take on America history.</div>
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<i>So what do you think? Have you heard Hamilton? Do you like it? What's your favorite song? Do you agree with the messages I presented, about feminism, legacy, etc. Comment! I'd love to find fellow Hamilton lovers.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Here's a few of the best songs (no bad words included)</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8fICMowNWGg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8fICMowNWGg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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If you've made it this far, I applaud you! I hope you like this post; hopefully, I'll get back on here soon:) This is a review of the album, not the actual musical.</div>
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<br />Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-34641019367165952152016-04-15T15:27:00.001-07:002016-04-15T15:28:12.935-07:00Tell Them<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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If you are a writer of any sort, I'm sure you've heard the
familiar advice, "Write what you know." There are articles both
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<br /></div>
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I agree—our experiences differ from our stories. I’ve never
been a police officer or have gone to public school. However, I believe the
emotions in our story should be similar to than ones we’ve felt ourselves. Your
parents might have never left you, but I’m sure you’ve experienced the pain of
someone leaving, whether it was the death of a family member or a friend who
stopped talking to you. Of course, these are different situations, but they
cause the same type of emotions: anger, sadness, depression.</div>
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Whether it’s a story or even a poem, the emotions are critical.
Recently, I reread <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Book Thief</i>,
one of my favorite books in the world. I differ significantly from the main
character, Lisel. I’ve never been in the foster system. I wasn’t alive during
World War II. Even so, I felt like I could have been her best friend. She had a
rare love for words that I have felt. She had the similar, deep relationship
with her father that I do. And because of that, I loved Lisel. Not especially
because I connect to her, but because she helped me understand my own feelings.
I don’t know if the author himself had the same adoration for words that she
did. But because he explored the sensation so deeply, I was able to relate to
it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s hard to write about personal situations, much less show
them to others. There’s always that fear that it will be taken the wrong way,
or *<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gasp*</i>, the person who inspired it
will read it. I’ve published a few poems that were inspired by a few people in
my life. And yes, I was afraid that the wrong person would read them. But you
know what? Each time I found the bravery to hit <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">publish</i>, I got a lot of feedback. Comments like: “I can really
relate to this. Thanks for sharing.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sure, those people might not have had the same problem I
did. But they still were impacted by my words because they were similar to
their own feelings. There is nothing more powerful than the ability to connect
with people. An action movie might keep your attention for two hours, but if
you can’t connect to the characters, what’s the point?</div>
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<br /></div>
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So I encourage you. Don’t be afraid to write what you know.
Write the emotions you have experienced, no matter how painful or personal they
are. Write about the anger that comes when someone mistreats you. Write about
the joy that comes when you move on. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tell
</i>others how you feel. </div>
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And then, maybe they’ll understand how <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">they </i>feel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe they’ll realize that they can overcome
the pain.</div>
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<br /></div>
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What are you waiting for?</div>
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<br /></div>
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P.S. I posted for the first time in forever a month ago.
Back then, I had 47 followers and no guarantee that anyone would read it. On
that silly post of mine, I got eight comments and now I have 54 followers. I
don’t know how to thank you guys. I hope you liked this more serious post. What
do you think about my advice?</div>
Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-22283380658709811802016-03-25T18:34:00.000-07:002016-03-26T09:11:05.203-07:00How Can We Comprehend?<div align="center">
Through Your death, death has lost.</div>
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Through Your blood, we are saved by the cross</div>
<div align="center">
How can I ever comprehend?</div>
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'Cause through Your pain, there was victory.</div>
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By a plan we could not see.</div>
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And now we wait for the time,</div>
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You will descend.</div>
<div align="center">
And now I wait for the day, </div>
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I will ascend.</div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<em>"For He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities. On Him, was the chastisement that brought us peace. And by His wounds we are healed."</em> Isaiah 53</div>
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</div>
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Remember what Jesus for you, today and always.</div>
Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-67430695469442197582016-03-14T14:02:00.001-07:002016-03-14T19:38:36.446-07:005 Little Things I Can't Live WithoutWhy, hello. Before I say anything, I want to say a late public thank you to Allie at <a href="http://sincerelyallied.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sincerely Ally</a> for making this amazing new blog design for me! Allie has great talent and it was so nice of her to put time into my blog. Be sure to check out her blog.<br />
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To keep me in check, I've decided to try to post every other Thursday since that I usually don't have to do much that day. Thanks so much for having patience and not un-following me. <br />
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Not much has changed since you last heard from me, so I won't go into another introduction. Instead, I'm going to talk about the little things I can't live without, which is an unusual list.<br />
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1. <strong>Library cards.</strong> Whoever came up with the idea of a library, I love you. You might know that I am still a committed bookworm, but I am also a <em>broke </em>bookworm. I don't have the money to buy all the books I want because, well, <em>that </em>would cost more money that my college fund. But the library is a place of endless possibilities. I can basically request any book I want from any library and they come usually within a week. Even new releases, though those tend to take longer. Right now, I am in the middle of reading a few high-anticipated new release without a dollar out of my pocket. How cool is that?<br />
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2. <strong>Spotify. </strong>For years, I relied on Youtube for most of my music, until I discovered Spotify. It took time, but I got over Taylor Swift taking her music out of it. Now we have it on computer so we don't have to shuffle it anymore. My need for Spotify is similar to my need for library cards. If I bought all the music I enjoyed, I'd be in debts by thousands.<br />
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3. <strong>Oreos. </strong>I adore this cookie, but we don't buy them often, so it's always the best treat. I was able to buy a family pack in honor of Mid-Terms week and they helped me a lot. The double-stuffed are my favorite:)<br />
<em><strong></strong></em><br />
4. <strong>Flash-drives. </strong>You know, the little thing you use to move your documents to different computers? If I didn't have those, my writing life would be destroyed, plus a lot of assignments would be overdue. I don't want the thing is with me and flashdrives, but every time I get a nice one, it breaks. Last Christmas, I got a sturdy one and I learned that you can <em>name </em>your flash-drives. Mine came from a brand called "Gorilla" so I named it George. George the Gorilla. I am so clever like that.<br />
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5. <strong>Pockets. </strong>I am not a purse person. I carry around books, not purses. Besides, I have no idea what how'd I'll fill it up anyway since I still don't wear makeup. So obviously, pockets come in handy for me, to keep library cards and flashdrives, ironically.<br />
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There you go! What are some little things you can't live without? Do you have a deep love for Oreos? As always, thank you for reading and stay tune for more!<br />
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I heard this song for the first time at a time I <em>really </em>needed to hear it. Lauren Daigle's music is simply wonderful and God-inspired.<br />
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<em>When You don’t move the mountains I’m needing You to move<br /> When You don’t part the waters I wish I could walk through<br /> When You don’t give the answers as I cry out to You<br /> I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!</em><br />
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-86998804347328022762016-01-24T14:07:00.002-08:002016-01-24T14:07:49.963-08:00Well... I'm BackHello again. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP23XCRlCi2x9DiLqE1LSjgcaXkCh4XyxHX-KdvvgYGcJ1bDUhWXcwiDrJheRvvfJf97xUuYYXLti6KTnbhhTYER-agrPYNCE0T9w6w6ySIa-1cb9R9CpXh1ByqeerD7s5dBEILgH2UCo/s1600/oct-fall+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP23XCRlCi2x9DiLqE1LSjgcaXkCh4XyxHX-KdvvgYGcJ1bDUhWXcwiDrJheRvvfJf97xUuYYXLti6KTnbhhTYER-agrPYNCE0T9w6w6ySIa-1cb9R9CpXh1ByqeerD7s5dBEILgH2UCo/s320/oct-fall+016.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
Wow, I haven't posted on this blog in nearly two months. I've never taken that long of a blogging break. I honestly didn't even mean to do it. Time just escaped from my fingers. But I'm planning to get back. Because I still love writing and you guys are awesome. <br />
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Meanwhile, my sister, Ellie has been a busy, blogging bee. (Haha, alliteration) And I must admit, she is a much better, more consistent blogger than I am. If you haven't checked on her blog, with a new, awesome name, you must. It's called A Bounce in Your Step, which is not only adorable, but fits her perfectly.<br />
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Back to me, I can assure you guys that I have been reading your posts. I just don't always comment because I read them on my slow iPod. I can't promise that I'll post a lot, but I will post more than I have been. Oh, and I'm taking classes at my local junior college so I've been pretty ecstatic. And busy. Lots busy. But I don't mind.<br />
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Quick Update...<br />
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<strong>I've recently read</strong>... I just finally finished <em>The Sword of Summer,</em> the first book in Rick Riordan's new series. It was beyond amazing and probably one of my favorites. I liked it so much I might even review it in detail. But I laughed aloud so many times. As a huge Riordan fan, it was one of his best.<br />
And <em>Winter, </em>the final book in the Lunar Chronicles. Which was so good, but left me asking, "What is life now?" when I finished it.<br />
<br />
<strong>I've listening to... </strong>With Taylor Swift slightly faded in the background, I've been discovering some new artists. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM3YOEVPGxo" target="_blank">Alessia Cara</a> is a new favorite. She's such a classy musician. Of course, I've been jamming to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R2x6GEIooQ" target="_blank">Rachael Platten's</a> new album, since I've adored her since "Fight Song." And there's also been a lot of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9UCZSFmPoU" target="_blank">Tori Kelly</a> music playing in my house too. So, if you're looking for great music, click on the links:)<br />
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<strong>I've been watching... </strong>A lot of Marvel movies, since we're getting all prepped for <em>Civil War. </em>Also, <em>When Calls the Heart </em>season 3 is coming out very soon.<br />
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<strong>I've been thinking... </strong>There's been a lot of distractions, when it comes to my relationship with God. But through it all, I still hear his voice speaking to me. Every day, I'm learning over and over again that God's word is much greater than anything I could ever consider.<br />
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Dat's about it. How are you? How is the school year coming? Thanks so much for reading. And I will be back, pinky promise. Maybe even with a new blog design. :P<br />
<br />
~Sarah<br />
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-6874305269394885012015-11-26T12:39:00.001-08:002015-11-26T12:39:20.272-08:00Someone Who StaysHello people! One of my favorite holidays is TODAY! I hung out in my PJs and didn't feel guilty for it. I love Thanksgiving.<br />
<br />
Though I have been on an independent writer hiatus for awhile now, I've been writing a dual project with my best friend. Every time I write a book, I dive into it, not only with the characters and the plot, but the messages too. I consider the messages at least a million times. Because I think the best creations is art that makes you understand an emotion you have yet to feel. In the process of writing these books, a certain message has stuck out to me. It just happens that it also ties in with Thanksgiving too.<br />
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When I was little child, I didn't know about the darkness of the world. Of course, a part of me knew what death was from the few funerals I attended, but still, death, loss, and depression was far from my reality. My live were full of toys, school, and friends. And, not to mention, my parents, grandparents, and whoever else I had a special connection to.<br />
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But my naïve nature went even deeper than that. Back in my young years, I thought my parents were just about perfect. There would be a bad day here and there, but other than that, my mom and dad were my necessities. I was convinced I needed them just as much as the air I breathed, my mom especially. Not that I don't need them anymore, because I do, perhaps not as intensely as I did when I was eight.<br />
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As I grew older, the truth hit me. Gradually, I began to see that my parents were never as perfect as thought they were. I saw that some people in my life didn't deserve to be as esteemed as I thought. Finally, I saw the world for what it truly is and even worse, I saw people for who they truly are.<br />
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Honestly, it made me angry, noticing those flaws that I was blind to before. There's nothing quite like realizing someone was different from what you originally thought. It leaves you confused, sad, and bitter. And it hurts at times, too. <br />
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Then I realized something. Family is one of the greatest gifts because of the flaws. My family puts up with me every single day, the times when I'm grumpy and stupid, or need help for easy things every two minutes. And it's not that they're forced to, either. They chose to love me despite my countless flaws. That's why a family is so great. They're always there.<br />
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People say the hardest you can do is say goodbye. But sometimes leaving isn't hard. Sometimes the hardest thing you have to do is <em>stay</em>. To stay when it seems like there's nothing else to fight for. To stay when right has turned wrong. To stay when it hurts deeper than you ever could have imagined.<br />
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So, whatever your family situation is, please think God for them. Thank God for people that stay. Maybe it seems like everyone has left you. I don't how that is, but I do know that Jesus never leaves. He gave us thing that last, things that withstand any trial. He gave us forever because He is forever.<br />
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Have a great Thanksgiving.Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-6473574597018253862015-11-05T16:10:00.003-08:002015-11-05T16:17:55.931-08:00Bottled Up Emotions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PHJXesYS0ZU6-XXHcwcCNCJasmuzzhNZnltwtqPms2-ncC8HQMbArXaV2WZqV-tYdH0S-KddLgwcvDG08l7YN0WZOet3YQTaNgiYMzI4-sJA5CpIllmRe2OY0yRcDoSCjdo8wbGpgpc/s1600/oct-fall+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PHJXesYS0ZU6-XXHcwcCNCJasmuzzhNZnltwtqPms2-ncC8HQMbArXaV2WZqV-tYdH0S-KddLgwcvDG08l7YN0WZOet3YQTaNgiYMzI4-sJA5CpIllmRe2OY0yRcDoSCjdo8wbGpgpc/s320/oct-fall+018.JPG" width="320" /></a>"I suppose that's my problem. I give myself very good advice, but very seldom do I take it."<br />
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Today, I heard this quote after watching <i>Alice in Wonderland </i>for the first time in forever. Despite how I often I wonder what the point of that movie is, I could definitely relate to this quote. I love to think, to discover new things about life and put those into words--words I express everywhere. But I realize that what you say can be a lot harder than what you do. I struggle with that constantly.<br />
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Maybe I'm going through some sort of identity crisis. I think I know who I am, but the more I think about it, I really <i>don't</i> know. I haven't written a full book by myself in about a year now, which is somewhat shocking. It's not that I don't have ideas. I do. But I can't seem to put them in words. The ideas that I can write are ideas that aren't completely my own. I want to have my own ideas; I want to create independently again. Huh, I don't know what my problem is.<br />
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I've noticed how much I hide my true feelings. Even when I cried a lot, I <i>hated </i>when people actually saw me cry. Nowadays, I cry rarely. It's funny, I always try to be the friend who listens. Day after day, I simply listen to people talk about their troubles. And that's fine, I love doing that. I've learned that sometimes all someone needs is for a friend to listen to them. <br />
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At the same though, I don't express my deep emotions to anyone. I listen to people, but when I need someone to listen to me, there's no one there. Either that, or I just don't want to express my feelings to anyone. It can be the worst feeling--to keep all your anger or sadness bottled up inside. I have no problem expressing happiness and joy. That's my favorite thing to do. But when the time does come, when I find myself angry or depressed, I simply rant to myself with no one to listen. The more I start to notice it, the more I see it's becoming to be a bit of a problem. But it's part of who I am, I suppose. Then again, I just said I'm not sure who I am.<br />
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But I look forward to the day when I find out.<br />
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<i>So what are your thoughts?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
{P.S Credits to my amazing sister, Bernie, who took the picture of these breathtaking trees}Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-140777098674811152015-10-19T08:57:00.001-07:002015-10-19T08:57:19.340-07:00Beautiful Words #10"But this I call to mind; therefore I have hope. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. There are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:21-23<br />
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I hope these verses amaze you as much as they amaze me. Have a great week:)<br />
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-75297411509543834472015-10-03T07:04:00.001-07:002015-10-03T07:04:42.412-07:00Hacked.<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Hey guys. This is Ellie. This is take three of posting this. I deleted it two times. Today I am here to post about my sister. My only sister and the sister of this beautiful blog. Today is special because she is turning 16! So here I am hacking her blog while I watch the cardinals game at my grandma's. </span><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Sarah is awesome because she is always loving people. She cooks lunch sometimes for us. She makes dinner. She helps me with math. She helps feed my guinea pig. She takes out Rudo. She helps us with piano. And she always wants to help people. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Sarah always have a smile on her face. She's always happy. She always has a bright side to things. She's always has her squeaky baby voice and her giant cute smile starring at me when I come into the room and saying somethig about how she loves Rudo so much. We're a little different. She's always in a flappy happy mood. Like constantly smiling mood. I almost never get those. But we still frands! </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Sarah is like the best big sister EVA! She's always helping me with something. And if she's not she's helping someone else. She always has a good attitude too. She's AWESOME! </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Here is some random facts about Sarah</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">1. She loves mustard</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">2. She LOVES SOUP! </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">3. She discovered her secret cooking skills this summer. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">4. She talks in a baby voice almost all the time. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">5. She loves Alladin, Finding Nemo, and A lot of other old disney movies.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Okay I had to get a little creative there because I don't much random facts about her. Lol</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH! Your a great sister! The greatest one I could ask for. Your so awesome and nice! I love youuuuuu! I hope you enjoy your birthday with lots of birthday spankings, presents, and food. But most of all with me and your family! HAPPY BIRTHDAY! </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">~Bernie:P</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">www.uniquelyyou1.blogspot.com</span></div>Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-20566438990197192302015-09-26T08:06:00.001-07:002015-09-26T08:06:39.957-07:004 Unexpected Shameless Obsessions:D"<strong>You are not going nowhere just because you haven't got where you want to be yet." -Taylor Swift.</strong><br />
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This quote sums up my summer and much of my life. But that isn't the obsessions I've come to talk about. Over the year, I've been introduced to several kinds of tv shows, movies, etc. The funny is, I never expected in a million years that I would love this things as much as I do now. Now that I do, I feel an urge to talk about it. <br />
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4. The <em>Star Wars </em>Films.<br />
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I'm late to join this fandom by at least a decade, right? Star Wars has always been something I've known about, since I have multiple cousins who have been obsessed with it since the dawn of time. Maybe because of that, I thought the whole thing was a little nerdy. But a few months ago, I convinced Ellie and Danny to watch <em>The Revenge of the Sith </em>with me. (Yes, we totally watched it in order) and surprisingly, we all loved it. Of course, Ellie's favorite part was when Annkian Skywalker almost burned to death. So <em>that's </em>why he has the dark suit, helmet, and cape on. It was news to me. <br />
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3. <em>When Calls the Heart, </em>a show on Hallmark. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4CHnjhKuGLFrqrj4JoqLVRWyoqswNDeCmQ91v0hmPqELa9UQnJ2mWNxnXT-huOvbew7Q7c6YtpRTisxSuLZ6TZbKgFsAs1EIMOdfIetVKb_OU8nHD7cQVRQkEtl5R_nTnj76kCYvBiw/s1600/when+calls+the+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4CHnjhKuGLFrqrj4JoqLVRWyoqswNDeCmQ91v0hmPqELa9UQnJ2mWNxnXT-huOvbew7Q7c6YtpRTisxSuLZ6TZbKgFsAs1EIMOdfIetVKb_OU8nHD7cQVRQkEtl5R_nTnj76kCYvBiw/s200/when+calls+the+heart.jpg" width="200" /></a>This was probably the most surpring thing because I thought it was a bit lame at first. Historical show and a teacher in Canada and a romance with a handsome Mounty based on Janette Oak's book. Been there, done that. The theme song is even predictable. But to my shock, once Danny and Elle watched it, they were sucked into it almost immediately. Even my brother, Danny, who is tweleve-years-old. And though it took me a tad bit longer, now I have happily joined the bandwagon. Jack Thorton is awesome, but even I don't adore him as much as Ellie and Danny do. My family practically binge-watched both seasons and after that terrible ending, we are impatiently waiting for the Christmas movie. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EMmLfbFEVbnuY_gvJXbFq7O__l2-f-_tnrWFvCzoGEfegFbn0VAs4JOSgPLp7JZJpRpx8ik9HPohSBGi_JUjwCO4CtyuqjTdmZR8-zrjMFmWJcLWUiQeqvlXd0l_DSh1EpuerF-MsHk/s1600/cinderella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EMmLfbFEVbnuY_gvJXbFq7O__l2-f-_tnrWFvCzoGEfegFbn0VAs4JOSgPLp7JZJpRpx8ik9HPohSBGi_JUjwCO4CtyuqjTdmZR8-zrjMFmWJcLWUiQeqvlXd0l_DSh1EpuerF-MsHk/s200/cinderella.jpg" width="200" /></a>2. The New <em>Cinderella </em>Movie.<br />
I got the chance to see this at a football field and it was amaaazing! Cinderella was honestly my least favorite Princess growing up. She was much too perfect. And Prince Charming? C'mon. But the movie was spectacular. I absolutely loved Ella and Kip and the messages of love and forgivness it promotes. It was literally flawless. Afterwards, my dad and I danced in the football field like at the ball.<br />
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1. <em>Murder She Wrote </em><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCq96K9CkGbKilI0SOGwWO-zmmXsdraNyc8l-hH0SZ5ZkY0CCbQ0L_eUD6rH4r-ebIVGecKuKFfUTqtavStlNKNyk5HlyH2n1dSRsBV_fNs5SyLxxBLHc-2f_PzuLDLv6-N6jlemJQcs0/s1600/murder+she+wrote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCq96K9CkGbKilI0SOGwWO-zmmXsdraNyc8l-hH0SZ5ZkY0CCbQ0L_eUD6rH4r-ebIVGecKuKFfUTqtavStlNKNyk5HlyH2n1dSRsBV_fNs5SyLxxBLHc-2f_PzuLDLv6-N6jlemJQcs0/s200/murder+she+wrote.jpg" width="140" /></a>I don't watch much new TV so we usually rely on old shows on Netflix for our entertainment. It took me awhile for Danny to convince me to watch <em>Murder She Wrote, </em>but when I did, I was secretly hooked. The plotline is about famous mystery author, Jessica Fletcher, solving a bunch of murders. Though they might not sound that appealing, believe me, it is. And Mrs. Fletcher has become my television role model. She is a best-selling author for one thing and has an almost superhuman ability for noticing things. Anyone who is writing a mystery, or any kind of fiction in general, could probably benefit from watching this show. And get this? Jessica gets so mad when people interrupt her while she's writing! So do I! <br />
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So, yes, those are the things that have taken up a lot of my free time. How about you? What do you like to obsess over, even in the business of the school year? I've been watching the Apple Music Festival and so far, it's been pretty awesome to watch:D<br />
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<br />Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-24926884128389449192015-09-10T11:10:00.000-07:002015-09-10T11:10:15.705-07:00This. Is. Me.What up, friends?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53urVcKpSvBncMbFIrpoBtx_d4T9k3dGBXe_XOIH5Zci1haCXXciTuuLyvpDJVzrJqdC8nNoPzOUJinE39MPwhZD5ITpyawwpDpesTKNL-hnFLVifrGHB6dhLDDc_lb2Nu5clIXj1_W0/s1600/End+of+July+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53urVcKpSvBncMbFIrpoBtx_d4T9k3dGBXe_XOIH5Zci1haCXXciTuuLyvpDJVzrJqdC8nNoPzOUJinE39MPwhZD5ITpyawwpDpesTKNL-hnFLVifrGHB6dhLDDc_lb2Nu5clIXj1_W0/s320/End+of+July+006.JPG" width="240" /></a>Okay, let's not live in denial. I have been a terrible blogger lately. Go figure. I literally have no excuse, other than I have a serious case of Blogger's Block. I need to get Ellie to guest post on here once in a blue moon. Would you like that?<br />
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Well, anywho, did any notice that a few weeks ago, Forever Changed has 50 FOLLOWERS! I did! And I am beyond happy about it. I LOVE YOU GUYS! I have literally poured my heart on this blog and I cannot count all the times you have encouraged me in so many ways.<br />
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Since I can't seem to finish a normal blog post idea, I have decided to write a list of five facts about me. Some of you guys might not know me that well and it's been awhile since I've done a tag-like post. This is perfect timing! I'll start with the well-known facts and lead into the odder ones.<br />
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1. <strong>I write. A lot.</strong> Writing just comes more naturally to be than anything does. I am a nervous public and am shy and awkward most of the time, but give me a keyboard or a notebook and I can actually write things that sound <em>good! </em>Funny, huh? Thank you, God, for giving me that gift! Expect for this blog, I rarely write about anything real, mostly modern and occasional fantasy fiction. But I always try to put the things I'm learning about life in anything I write. Currently, I am focused on writing a trilogy with my best friend. It has to be the most fun project I've ever done.<br />
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2. <strong>Music is my life</strong>. Apart from writing, music is my passion. Though I play piano, I mostly love to listen to music, since I like pretty much anything. Music is such a unique to express any kind of feeling. It touches me unlike anything else can. As you all know by now, my favorite singer is Taylor Swift. Her music has become so different over the years, yet it remains to be so heartfelt and beautiful. <br />
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3. <strong>I could not live without my #squad</strong>. Technically, my squad is composed of my brother and sister, Ellie and Danny, plus two of our friends, also sisters, Mila and Ellie. But we consider them to be family. Every time we see each other, whether ten minutes or ten hours, is a blast. And the time we are apart, whether been two hours or two weeks, feels like forever. We make movies, do support groups, and occasionally have insiginificant arguments. But ultimately, we are the best of friends and canot function properly without each other.<br />
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4. <strong>I can cook</strong>! I am literally <em>so </em>excited about this fact because I only just learned it this summer. My mom had knee replacement surgery so Ellie and I had to step in with our talents. Ellie's nickname is "Cooker" so she's been known as the chef prodigy of the family. But I started cooking meals on a regular basic and I've learned that I'm good at it. My favorite food is soup so I make a LOT of that. This year, I've craved sour cream and as a result, anything I cook has sour cream.<br />
5.<strong> I believe in absolute truth.</strong> Obviously, by the blog header, you probably guessed that this blog is Christ-inspired. But behind that, I believe in absolute truth. It is a fact that true for everyone in any circumstance. In this culture, the value of truth is underestimated. People tend to go with the <em>both/and </em>way of dealing with truth. Like: "It's truth for you, but it's not true for me." I think that some things are right and some things are wrong, but not both at the same time. Also, it was revealed to me that the reason why truth is so important is because it doesn't matter what we believe. What matter is what is true. That's why we have to be careful when we examine what is seen as true.<br />
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Okay, so there you go! Information dumps are seen as a big no-no in the fictional wiring world, but they're fun to write every so often. By the way, my beautiful sister, Ellie, took that picture of the sky, not me.<br />
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<strong>Do you like sour cream? Do you write? What's your opinon on truth? Comment and tell me please! I'd love to hear it.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
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<strong></strong>Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-12965093385020187262015-08-21T15:10:00.004-07:002015-08-21T15:10:54.215-07:00when i feel like a failure {part 1}<div align="center">
the well-known truth of life is that</div>
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No matter who you are</div>
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what you have achieved</div>
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or what you own</div>
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there will be times when you...</div>
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Just...</div>
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feel like a failure.</div>
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I can relate to this.</div>
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Because lately... I feel like I failed.</div>
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And the truth is</div>
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That...well...</div>
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I do.</div>
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I fail significantly.</div>
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As a daughter. </div>
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As a sister.</div>
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As a friend,</div>
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and the list goes on and on, you know?</div>
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But more than any of that,</div>
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I fail as a child of God. </div>
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I think terrible thoughts.</div>
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I practically invite disgusting ideas into my head.</div>
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I don't focus on Jesus,</div>
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Not as nearly as He deserves.</div>
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I am selfish. I am proud.</div>
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I. Am. A. Failure.</div>
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<br />as much as I wish I could the truth,</div>
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I really can't.</div>
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Sometimes truth is like a smack in the face.</div>
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It hurts.</div>
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It's sudden.</div>
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And you a lot of times, </div>
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You can't avoid it. </div>
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So what you can do about it?</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">~Sarah</span></div>
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-48466981122016313852015-08-14T13:51:00.000-07:002015-08-14T13:51:33.135-07:00Beautiful Words #9 (Another Taylor Edition)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>"Maybe you lost someone you never expected you would lose. Maybe you lost yourself. That’s even worse. When you have bad days that just won’t let up, I just hope that you will look in the mirror and remind yourself of what you are and what you are not. You are not your mistakes. You are not damaged goods or money from your failed explorations. You are not the opinion of someone who doesn’t know you. You are a product of the lessons that you’ve learned. You are wiser because you went through something terrible. And you are the person who survived a bunch of rainstorms and kept walking.</i><br />
<i>I now believe that pain makes you stronger. And now I believe that walking through a lot of rainstorms gets you… <b>Clean</b>."- Taylor Swift, Clean Speech (1989 Tour)</i></blockquote>
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My family is going through a tough season right now and through it, I've figured out that Taylor is right. Our mistakes and trials can make us clean, but it depends on our perspective of it. Every time I listen to this song, I feel empowered and that's why I can't get over it. Good luck on the new school year!<br />
~Sarah<br />
<br />Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-7997187590950191022015-08-07T09:40:00.002-07:002015-08-07T09:40:54.207-07:00Lies and Peer PressureFor all of those who didn't know, I am homeschooled. I am also (shocker) a bit of an introvert. Still, being social comes a <em>lot</em> more naturally than it did and as a result, I have a few groups of good friends. Now don't get me wrong--I adore my friends. But being an insecure introvert, I've noticed that peer pressure can put lies in your head. So, to help myself (and hopefully you), I'm going to discuss them.<br />
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1. <strong>Don't judge me!</strong><br />
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Seriously, how many times have we heard these words? I don't know about you, but my worst fear is hurting someone's feelings. In this time of age, especially with conservatory subjects, judgment is looked down upon as the rudest, most insensitive thing to do. But, when you think about, what is judging? Webster's dictionary defines judging as <u>"To compare facts or ideas, and perceive their agreement or disagreement, and thus to distinguish truth from falsehood</u><em>." </em>Disagreement isn't the same as judgement. <br />
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When you think about it, technically the phrase "don't judge me" is <em>judging. </em>You don't want to be seen as that "person" who always gets on everybody for doing something that doesn't match up to their standards; so you keep your mouth shut. But, as long as we do it in a respect way, there is nothing wrong with stating and defending our opinion, no matter what conservatory it would cause.<br />
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<strong>2. Parents are embarrassments. </strong><br />
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This isn't a huge issue in the homeschooling world, but it can be. It seems to be a well-known truth, especially in your teen years, that parents are lame. You need to be independent. You can keep secrets from your parents. You're not a child---you can do things for yourself. It's simply a nightmare when your parents randomly show up and speak to you about something personal... right in front of your friends! But is really a nightmare?<br />
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I have to admit, my parents are weird, like me. They can be awkward, like me. But under all of that, they can be super fun, like me. Sure, sometimes I wish my dad wouldn't call me strange nicknames right in front of my friends, but when I think about it, it's because he <em>really </em>cares about me. And if your friends can't put up with your parents, then they're not very good friends to begin with.<br />
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<strong>3. If a conversation makes you feel uncomfortable, don't show it. </strong><br />
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With some of my friends, I'm known as the nice and friendly girl. I'm proud of that, but sometimes I feel like people underestimate me because of it. Once, when I was hanging out with a certain group of friends, someone mentioned something very bad. Unable to help it, I gasped after mentioned it. Then another one of my friends laughed and said, "Sarah just gasped after you said that!"<br />
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At first, I felt guilty. <em>Great,</em> I thought, <em>Another reason for them to think I'm the goody girl of the group. </em>But after I thought about it for awhile, I realized there was nothing wrong with what I did. My friend should <em>not </em>have been talking that--it was purely disgusting. That happens to me often. My friends bring up that they shouldn't and a lot of times, I keep my mouth shut. After all, it's not hurting anybody. I will be honest though: It paints terrible pictures in my head. <br />
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Most times I let it go, but when people cross certain lines, we shouldn't be afraid to confront them. Or easier than that, just walk away. But we shouldn't feel guilty if something makes us feel uncomfortable.`I think this next lie sums peer pressure up....<br />
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<strong>4. You can be yourself, as long as you don't cross lines.</strong><br />
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We are always told to be ourselves. After all, nothing is better, right? Yet there are exceptions to this rule. "Don't do that," people say. "That's just too weird. It crosses lines." There are only a couple of friends I have that I am never afraid to be myself around. All the others, I consider doing this or that, but then I think, "No, they'll think that's weird." We seem to always be afraid of people seeing us for who we really are.<br />
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But my advice is<em>... get weird</em>. Don't hold it back. Because being yourself is quite fun when you make it. And if others can't handle it, it's their loss, not yours. I don't hold anything weird back from my best friends. Why? Because they know me. They know everything about me. Like the basic facts: I'm shy... and even the stranger ones: that I'm almost sixteen and still have an obsession with talking snowmen. <br />
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The point is, the best friends you have are the ones you hold nothing back from. Believe me, they're hard to come by. So don't let them go, alright?<br />
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<em>What are the struggles you face with peer pressure? How do you manage to be yourself in spite of it? I would love to hear your thoughts!</em><br />
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<strong> </strong>Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-50760814127638359672015-07-28T07:24:00.003-07:002015-07-28T07:24:52.439-07:00Help Me to DieHello, blogging world! I wrote this poem during Super Summer and totally forgotten I'd written it. But I looked it over again and realized it was a good enough poem to publish. I wrote about my own walk with God and how I desperately need Him to influence my desires.<br />
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Yesterday, I thought nothing could cave me in.</div>
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But today, I'm ruined, stuck in sin.</div>
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I still can't believe I ever thought that</div>
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I could do it by myself.</div>
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You're my only hope</div>
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Through all my doubts</div>
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Oh, Lord set me free</div>
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From all my insecurities </div>
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Let me lead</div>
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A life that will be true to you</div>
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Please be</div>
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All I see</div>
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In a world with so many worthless things</div>
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Please hear my desperate cry.</div>
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Help me to live for You</div>
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But first, help me to die.</div>
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It's harder than it sounds--dying to yourself so you could live for God. But with God, it is possible. I hope you like this poem!:)</div>
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-8466892518345242042015-07-19T09:57:00.001-07:002015-07-19T11:12:31.735-07:00Who We Are... Now<em>"Remember not the things of old. Do not dwell in the past. See, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" Isaiah 43:18-19a.</em><br>
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Isn't it strange how caught we can be with different stages of our lives? We're always thinking about who we were, who we fear we'll become, or who we need to be. It's either past or future, but never present. <br>
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Being a high school sophomore, every now and then I am reminded that college is only three years away and I need to make sure my transcript looks good enough to apply for a scholarship. Recently, I was also reminded of how I should<em> </em>have spent more time doing history at school so I could get a college credit. It's all about what I should have done, or what I need to do.<br>
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Through all of that, I think we forget to enjoy who we are <em>now. </em>Just think about it. We are young. We have a whole life ahead of us, thousands of new experiences to attain. Our physical and mental state is constantly changing month by month, year by year. We will only be who we are now--in this stage of life--<em>once</em> before life starts to change again. <br>
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Lately, I feel like I'm stuck in a quiet stage of life since my mom has been recuperating from knee replacement surgery. She can't drive so we've only been out of the house three times this past week. It's definitely a sudden switch-up from the business of the school semester and summer. <br>
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But God reminded me last night. He is <em>always </em>working new things in my life, whether I think so or not. Sure, it can get boring and definitely challenging at times, but I have to trust that He has a plan. Because I know without a doubt that He does. <br>
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That's why we should enjoy where we are in love now. God is teaching us something new every day. He has worked out a specific plan for all of us and we are experiencing it <u>right now. </u>It's amazing when you think about it. There have times in the past few weeks when I wasn't sure how <em>anything </em>to work out. But every day, I see God, putting hope and love, into my life.<br>
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Thank you for your patience with me and thanks for reading. <br>
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WAIT: Last night, Ellie and I got to see ROYAL TAILOR in concert! They were beyond amazing. We met them and took pictures. They put on a great show, one that I'll never forget. It was so much fun and I'm thankful to God for allowing us to go.<br>
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The sky could fall<br>The ground could shake<br>The stars burn out<br>And seasons change<br>The time will pass<br>And beauty fade<br>But all my love will remain</div>
Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-24219389570919720592015-07-08T16:53:00.001-07:002015-07-08T16:53:33.263-07:00Hello Again: Updates and PoemsHey guys. It's been a long time. Most of it I have a good excuse for, but some of it, I don't. But I'm back now and I think I'm here to stay. Fresh start. I hope you guys are having a great summer!<br />
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Two weeks from now, Ellie and I went to Super Summer, (Ellie's first overnight camp). It was an amazing experience. Super Summer challenged us to put God as the focus of our lives, as well as to be bold in sharing our faith. I could talk about that for a long time. So maybe I'll write a blog post about it later. <br />
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This Monday, my mom had knee replacement surgery. She's home now and doing great. The whole thing has put our busy summer to a hold, which I am thankful for. I need a break, peeps. Now I have more time to be on blog.<br />
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Well, Ellie and I just got back from babysitting at a homeschool conference. 3-5 year olds are adorable, but they tire you out. I'm going to go crash, but before I leave, I'll share the poem I couldn't find when I had to write my last post. <br />
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Story Behind the Poem: This poem is a tad bit personal, since I was thinking about a real relationship in my life. I have a friend who got busy and didn't talk to me that much. As a result of my own sensitivity, I felt cold when we finally texted. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized I wanted this relationship to last and go back the way it was. It made me guilty about it and I later apologized to her. <br />
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So here I am</div>
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At the end of the cycle again</div>
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It's been awhile, but I'm not afraid</div>
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Please let me back in.</div>
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Maybe you were right.</div>
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Maybe I was wrong.</div>
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To be honest, I don't know.</div>
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It doesn't matter anymore.</div>
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Could we go back to where were?</div>
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Or maybe where we began?</div>
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I thought I moved on,</div>
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But here I am,</div>
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Saying</div>
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"Hello" to you again.</div>
Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-29076465508266936402015-06-16T17:25:00.002-07:002015-06-16T17:25:31.823-07:00"You're Getting Me Through the Night"Hello friends! Long time, no blog. Alright, let's get my lame excuses over with. Last week, I found myself lacking inspiration in all sorts of ways. I did have a poem, but whenever I found time to blog, I couldn't find the notebook I wrote it in. And this week is probably the busiest of the summer, with me volunterring for a choir camp, Ellie and Danny at FCA camp, and Danny's baseball. Yep, we're packed, peeps. <br />
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So since I have a writer's block, I've decided to share a few songs that I adore with all my heart. Here we go!<br />
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This song is probably my favorite Christian song of the year. Every time I listen to it I feel relieved. It's really beautiful. God is ALWAYS with us.<br />
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<em>In the midst of deep sorrow<br /> I see Your light is breaking through<br /> The dark of night will not overtake me<br /> I am pressing into You<br /> Lord, You fight my every battle<br /> And I will not <strong>fear</strong></em></div>
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<strong>(Kari Jobe, "I am Not Alone)</strong></div>
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I finally got a chance to listen to this song and it is magical! I haven't seen Pitch Perfect and from I heard, it's not the cleanest movie around, but this song is amazingly beautiful. Take a listen:)</div>
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<em>I got all I need when I got you and I<br /> I look around me, and see a sweet life<br /> I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight<br /> You're getting me, getting me through the night</em></div>
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(Jessie J, "Flashlight")</div>
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THIS SONG! I heard this song before it became popular and it is AMAZING. This is a tough, busy week for me so I've been singing this song to myself. It almost NEVER gets old. The lyrics are so inspiring. PLEASE LISTEN!</div>
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<em>And all those things I didn't say<br /> Wrecking balls inside my brain<br /> I will scream them loud tonight<br /> Can you hear my voice this time</em></div>
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Okay, so those are some songs! This week I've been listening to annoying music from the musical that we're doing, but it's looking up. Ellie and I will be gone all next week at Super Summer, an awesome camp. AND my request for "The Heir" finally got accepted! Yay!</div>
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How's your summer going? What's your favorite summer song?</div>
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-54793540009992755262015-06-06T05:24:00.001-07:002015-06-06T05:24:16.651-07:00Beautiful Words #8"Above all, I have learned to love and forgive. Because without forgiveness, love will fail and without love, even the greatest acts of courage are in vain, if they even exist to begin with."<div><br></div><div>Hello! I just watched Cinderella, guys! It was flawless:D. BTW, I came up with this. It isn't from the movie. Anywho, have a great weekend!</div>Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-51213082969510277782015-06-02T15:11:00.001-07:002015-06-02T15:11:49.314-07:00A Little PoemEvery day, people break.<div>Then they cry,</div><div>Before they fade</div><div>And then they're gone.</div><div>I hope there's something more.</div><div><br></div><div>Every day, people run</div><div>Curl up in bed </div><div>But the pain isn't undone.</div><div>Can't get along.</div><div>I pray there's something more.</div><div><br></div><div>Every day, people lose hope.</div><div>Watch themselves burn,</div><div>Suffocate in smoke.</div><div>It's so wrong.</div><div>Is there something more?</div><div><br></div><div>Every day, people die.</div><div>But be sure of this,</div><div>There is another life.</div><div>It is still a hopeful song.</div><div>I know there's something more.</div><div><br></div><div>I got inspired to write this after begining to read <i>This Star Won't Go Out. </i>Hope you like it:)</div>Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1115009051510255610.post-82185333505229605202015-05-28T17:44:00.000-07:002015-05-30T16:12:49.976-07:00Something In Between<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9uaIxS2Ssj-butyqqUrP9Jq-5_PUndMjamIa88raGgruuMZBe7kiFIUbohZeAQwD3Y_QVyVkRHNJMYIWG3GTx9xXuz1KxbjoNLyMg48Sc2XVZIBHupphVXrBJtjEZ5az1sj3khxuJhm4/s1600/into+the+woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">I<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9uaIxS2Ssj-butyqqUrP9Jq-5_PUndMjamIa88raGgruuMZBe7kiFIUbohZeAQwD3Y_QVyVkRHNJMYIWG3GTx9xXuz1KxbjoNLyMg48Sc2XVZIBHupphVXrBJtjEZ5az1sj3khxuJhm4/s1600/into+the+woods.jpg"></a>Recently, I've found a new adoration for musicals. . This week, I finally a got hold of Disney's <em>Into The Woods</em>, the musical combining all sorts of fairy tale characters. You can imagine my excitement. Only this musical was different than movies like <i>Frozen. </i>Instead of a few songs here in there, <em>Into The Woods </em>barely had a spoken word. <strong><em>Everyone</em></strong> sang.<br>
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Unlike most Disney films, this one did not have your typical "happily ever after." That was what bothered me about the ending. Because it was more like real life than anything.<br>
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Near the end, Cinderella talks to her prince. He pleads with her to go back with him, but she says, "My father's house was a nightmare. Your palace was a dream. I think I want something in between."<br>
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Her statement reminded me of how narrow-minded we can be. We see fairy tales and write them off as stupid. After all, real life doesn't work out that way. We either hope things will go right or expect them to go wrong. We are either optimistic or pessimistic. Sometimes there can be faults in both views.<br>
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But as I learn, the more I see that life isn't like that. It's not a fairy-tale, where someone will always come to rescue. At the same time though, it's not a terrible roller coaster ride. Instead... it's something in between.<br>
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Because the truth is---few things are black and write. Even the seemingly best people have dark secrets. The meanest bullies can have a good side. Everything is mixed up, light and darkness all in one. We are forced to fit the puzzle pieces together the best we can.<br>
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What we must realize is that we do not choose what is right and wrong. One <em>Into The Woods</em> song has a line that irked me, "You decide what's right. You decide what's good."<br>
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That is not the case. Right and wrong is beyond us. Someone greater has already decided what is right and wrong. We can only decide which one we will do. If we will stand up for the innocent or take advantage of them. If we will protect something valuable or steal it. If we will lie or tell the truth. That is what we can choose. <br>
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Yes, life is not always simple. Only God is completely right. Everything else is a twisted mixture. But it is possible to figure out what is right and wrong. No one controls us. We can decide for ourselves to do right or wrong. <br>
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Ellie (or Bernie) http://www.blogger.com/profile/09474813998658740534noreply@blogger.com1