#spirit of south carolina

[wigoutlet]

_PVH2534 by Patrice Hatcher

[ghostlytales]

Reddit user Queen_Rach, Possible ghost sighting? I took this photo at night in the Unitarian Church graveyard in Charleston, SC. Wasn’t expecting to capture anything. Can anyone debunk this for me?

[hotvintagepoll]

Propaganda

Jane Fonda (Barbarella, Sunday in New York, Barefoot in the Park)—Feminist icon, LGBTQ+ rights activist since the 70s, Civil Rights and Native American rights advocate, environmentalist… she really is THE woman ever

Eartha Kitt (Anna Lucasta, St. Louis Blues)—My friend and I have a saying: NOBODY is Eartha Kitt. A thousand have tried, and they've all come up empty and will continue to do so. Everyone knows her for something: from "Santa Baby" to Yzma in Emperor's New Groove to Catwoman to making Lady Bird Johnson cry for the Vietnam War. She was a master of comedy and sex, an extremely vocal activist, and she aged like fine wine... I honestly don't know what I can say about her that hasn't already been said, so I'll stick to linking all my propaganda. Like what else do you want from me. She was iconic at everything she ever did. Literally name another. How can anyone even think of her and not want to absolutely drown?

This is round 6 of the tournament. All other polls in this bracket can be found here. Please reblog with further support of your beloved hot sexy vintage woman.

[additional propaganda submitted under the cut.]

Jane Fonda:

"I assume she's already been submitted but I gotta make sure. I think there's an element to movies like Barbarella or her segment of Spirit of the Dead of those having been directed by her husband, who famously made movies about her being hot, and the incredible costume design also helped, but good lord. Look at her"

"She was so pretty, dear lord! She was and still us stunning. She’s great at comedy and drama."

"Shes so hot im so gay for me i will let her hit me with hers car"

"Gorgeous and also still getting arrested at climate protests, which is sexy behavior"

"Watching her in Barefoot in the Park seriously made me, a straight woman, question things"

"PLEASE I LOVE HER SO MUCH"

"Her vibes in these movies are so interesting because she, the daughter of an Old Hollywood star, went on to make both poignant dramatic movies and the some of the silliest things you've ever seen but even in the silly space adventures and sexploitations there's always this undeniable gravitas to her. It's like she's able not to take herself very seriously but at the same time never stops having this grace and elegance and makes it all work together. And she's always been very politically active which is also sexy. Her famous mugshot is from 1970 so right at the cutoff mark but come on"

Eartha Kitt:

"A hot vintage woman who was not just known for her voice, beauty, poise, and presence, but also her unapologetic ways of speaking about how she was mistreated in the show business as a girl who grew up on cotton fields in South Carolina in the 1930s through the 1940s coming to Broadway first and then Hollywood."

"Have you watched her sing?? Have you seen her face?? Have you heard her talk?? How could you not fall instantly in love. She makes me incoherent with how hot she is."

"She can ACT she can SING she can speak FOUR LANGUAGES she is a GODDESS!!! Although she is (rightfully) remembered for her singing, TV appearances (Catwoman my beloved), and later film roles, her early appearances in film are no less impressive or noteworthy!! She’s an amazing actress with so much charisma in every role. She was also blacklisted from Hollywood for 10 years for criticizing the Johnson administration/Vietnam War, so. Iconic. Also Orson Welles apparently called her “the most exciting woman in the world.”

"She had such a stunning, remarkable appearance, like she could tear you to shreds with just a glance- but the most undeniable part of her hotness was her voice, and it makes sense that it's what most people nowadays know her for. Nothing encapsulates the sheer magnetism of her singing better than this clip of her and Nat King Cole in St. Louis Blues, she pops in at 2:49. Also I know it's post-1970 but her song that was cut from Emperor's New Groove is likely to make you feel Feelings."

"Even with as racist as Hollywood was in the 1950s and 60s, Eartha Kitt STILL managed to have a thriving career. She also once had a threesome with Paul Newman and James Dean, and called out LBJ over the Vietnam War so hard that it made First Lady Johnson cry. Eartha Kitt was talented, sexy, and a total badass activist."

[gunjapatell]

SPIRIT WEEK!! This week is spirit week at my school therefore you can never miss out on a fun way to celebrate school spirit with your friends. The picture to the left shows my friends and I on scrabble day! Basically you wore a letter on your shirt. Being HOSA fanatics and state officers, we decided to show our HOSA spirit and have H-O-S-A on us for the day! It was super fun! Then later this week, my friends and I also toured USC Columbia campus as many of us want to attend UofSC. We had lunch at Russell House, which had a wide range of dining options. The campus is super pretty around this time with the cooler weather. It was such a fun experience especially because our school took us! Definitely love UofSC and can’t wait to one day attend their Columbia campus!! So far this week has been off to a great start!

[mewhenimanangel]

reporting live, paige bueckers

—synopsis. you run into paige again at the club after uconn wins the title game

notes ౨ৎ: sorry it took a month for this, i completely forgot about it!

previous ౨ৎ

it had been three days since you went to the iowa vs uconn game. today was the title game against south carolina but unfortunately you weren't assigned to report on this game.

plus, today was your birthday and you were celebrating with some friends. earlier you had gone out for breakfast and tonight you were going out.

you had the game on your tv while you and your friends were at your apartment getting ready to go out for the night. "paige is so tuff" you watched the tv as you moisturized your legs. "that should be caitlin playing i fear" devon sighed. "mad as hell" you joked.

soon the game was over, and uconn came out on top as the winners. you were so glad for them.

there were shot glasses on your coffee table with remnants of tequila and pink whitney in them. you'd been pregaming with your friends for tonight.

you got dressed into a black sleeveless corset top with a matching mini skirt and brown stiletto boots. you had to admit, the outfit left little to the imagination.

soon you and devon were ready while you waited on your friends, dani, and tristin to finish getting ready.

"can you guys hurry up?" devon scolded them. "relax we're almost ready" tristin rolled his eyes. "okay well i've got connections with the bouncer, and we need to not be late" she pointed a stern finger at him as she threw on her jacket.

after a few minutes of playful bickering, you all were ready to go.

devon got you guys into some exclusive club downtown somehow, she didn't explain the details, but you were excited.

it wasn't a long drive before you made it to the club and your spirits were high. after blasting music and taking cute, slutty pictures in the car with your friends you were excited for the rest of the night.

devon led the way to the club entrance, whispering something to the bouncer who nod his head and let you all in.

"so how exactly did you get us in here?" you asked with a smirk on your face. "you remember dylan?" she had a sly grin on her face. dylan was an old fling of hers, who just so happen to be a manager for clubs and motels. "no!" you gasped and she just nod her head.

you all followed her to sit at a booth in the corner.

after a few minutes you ordered some loaded fries  and sliders for the table, along with a bottle of tequila and shot glasses.

the alcohol was definitely pumping through your system at this point, and dani dragged you all to dance. there was some remix playing in the background while you grind your ass on dani and tristin.

"can we get another drink?!" devon leaned over to ask you. "yea sure!" you followed her through the crowd of people over to the bar.

"can i have a long island please?" devon asked the bartender. "and a vodka martini for me please!” you added.

you sat down while you waited for your drinks when devon looked past you at the door.

“oh my god there’s no way. uconn just walked in.” she said. “what, are you sure that’s them?” you followed her gaze. “are you that drunk you can’t see?” she asked you to which you just laughed.

you subconsciously looked around for the uconn player you were most concerned with, paige.

she came in behind everyone else with nika and kk. she wore a short black crop top that had her toned body on display, with baggy camouflage jeans that sit on top of a pair of jordans.

she looked so good, her hair was down with four braids in. “damn she looks good, you should go talk to her” devon smirked. you snapped your head at her “are you insane? why would i do that?”

the bartender handed you both your drinks and you thanked him. “i’m just saying, you should’ve seen the way she was looking at you when you interviewed her at the last game. eye contact was heavy, she was definitely checking you out”

“that’s called media training, you’re supposed to keep eye contact” you told her. the both of you looked over to find her again.

except this time, she was looking at you. there was a smirk on her face as she eyed you down, squinting to see you better. even from across the bar, you could feel the tension.

“oh she wants you. that was definitely checking you out” devon scoffed. you hid the smile on your face “i wonder if she even remembers me though?” you sipped on your drink. “who would forget you and from that look she definitely does”

“you don’t even know if she likes women” you reasoned.

you slowly turned to look at paige again who was now sitting at a booth with a few of her teammates, you still had a good view of her from the bar though.

she looked over at you again and you quickly turned around. “i feel like a tween with a crush right now” you giggled.

“i’m gonna go pee” you told devon. “be careful okay?” she told you and you nod your head.

you walked by paige’s booth to find the bathroom. you could feel her look at you.

when you came out of the stall to wash your hands, you dart your eyes to paige who was standing in the mirror taking a picture.

“oh hey, sorry” she moved out of your way. “no you’re good” you smiled. “i know you don’t i, you’re the pretty woman who interviewed me last week” she crossed her arms, emphasizing her biceps.

“oh yeah haha i am” you dried your hands. “why didn’t you say hi?” “was i supposed to?” you quirked your eyebrow. she hummed “did you see the game today? you weren’t there interviewing” she opened the door for you as the two of you left the bathroom.

“yeah…i took the day off cause it’s my birthday” you told her. “ohhh happy birthday” she smirked, eyes trailing over your outfit. “thank you so much” “how old are you now?”

“twenty two” she nod her head and put her hand in a shape to mimic a microphone. “well mrs..” she trailed off realizing she doesn’t know your name. you chuckled and told her.

“well mrs y/n, how do you feel being twenty two” she put an exaggerated reporter voice on. “well paige, it’s feeling pretty good. the club is bumping, the ladies look good, the alcohol is flowing” you responded in your own reporter voice, making her laugh.

“you look really nice by the way” she took the opportunity to eye fuck you again. “why thank you” you posed with your hands on the back of your hips as you did a small twirl.

“you look really good too” you took your own chance to check her out as well, not missing the smirk on her face when you did so.

“so congrats on the game, i saw you guys won”

“yeah, it’s so crazy to think i’ve come this far” she shook her head. “well that’s amazing! you guys came to celebrate?” you asked her and she nod her head. “oh, should i be letting you go back to your teammates then?..” you turned to find their table.

“nah they won’t mind, i’d rather talk to you anyways” she moved a step closer, and you tilt your head to look at her. these shoes only made you about 5’9 compared to her regular 6’0 ft frame. the dim lighting in the building cast a warm glow on her face.

“you wanna get a drink?” she nod her head towards the bar. you were a little drunk but you definitely weren’t turning down that offer “sure”

she held on to the small of your back as the two of you made your way through the crowd of people. you sat on two vacant stools and paige called the bartender over. she told him she wanted a sex on the beach before you told her you just wanted a light daiquiri.

the two of you got to talking about whatever until the conversation got a little personal. you had your leg crossed over your lap, crossing past her leg and you swore you felt her drag your stool closer.

“wait so, you do like women?” you asked her. “sorry, you don’t have to answer that” you stopped yourself. “nah it’s cool, i don’t put a label on it i just like who i like”

you couldn’t help but feel a sort of tension when she said that. as the words left her mouth her stare intensified and she looked down at your lips before back up at your eyes.

“oh okay that makes sense i guess” you nod your head. “do you…like women?” she asked you. “i do” you pursed your lips into a smirk as you continued “why?”

“do you happen to like women who are blonde and play basketball?” she smirked. you chuckled “yeah i think i do actually” you let your eyes flicker down to her lips.

she quickly handed her credit card to the bartender and grabbed your hand leading you to the exit, pressing you up against a wall outside.

“can i kiss you?” she asked you. you answered that by pressing your lips on hers and throwing your arms around her neck.

though the kiss was sloppy at first, you both fell into a rhythm as her hands held onto your waist.

paige felt a little bold and slid her hand up further, cupping the underside of your boob. you grinned “not worried someone’s gonna see us?” you broke the kiss. she shook her head no “nah it’s fine” she kissed you again.

“well, i actually have a rule. i don’t hookup with people i barely know at the club”

she looked a little defeated at that. “wanna go back to my place?” you smirked and she nod her head, grabbing your hand to lead you to her car.

[winchester-24]

Imagine getting into an argument with Dean

You have been with Dean for just a little over a year. You met when they saved you from a werewolf, and ever since you learned about the things in the dark, you wanted to make sure you could protect someone else as they did for you. Dean and Sam left after that night, but you started to learn about the supernatural, train to fight and self-defense, and eventually began to go on hunts. You ran into the brothers about two months after that night on a hunt for a vengeful spirit. The boys recognized you from your most traumatic night. After the hunt, you went out to a bar with the boys and hit it off well with the older Winchester. You ended up leaving with them and have been hunting with them ever since. Dean and you became official after a few months of being on the road with them, and you couldn’t be happier. You learn Dean had a past with the ladies, and while in the beginning, it made you feel insecure, Dean showed you that he loved you through everything he did, even if he never said it, and those insecurities washed away until this case, at least.

You three were investigating mysterious deaths in South Carolina. The way of death is all over the place, from drowning to heart missing to throat slit. It didn’t make sense, but four occurred in the same area over three weeks. You were at the last victim's house talking to the victim's daughter, who was around your age and Sam’s. Sam was walking around the house, looking for anything that stood out. Dean was talking to the daughter, and you were going through the victim’s computer with the daughter's permission.

“I know this must be very hard for you.” You hear Dean say, and in the corner of your eye, you see him grab the daughter’s arm. You are tense as you don’t want to make it obvious you are watching, but why does he need to touch her to question her? Those insecurities that Dean worked so hard to get rid of started to creep back up. The daughter latches onto the empathy and starts crying, attaching herself to Dean and hugging him while she cries in his chest. He hugged her and began rubbing his hand up and down your back. Something he did to you when you needed reassurance from him. You saw in the corner of his eye that he looked over at you, but you quickly moved your eyes to focus back on the computer in front of you, even though you weren’t comprehending anything on the screen.

The daughter released herself from Dean, letting out an apology. Dean smiled at her and replied

“Don’t worry about it, sweetheart.” Your jaw clenched. The daughter then opened up with more information and said that was all she knew. Dean nodded his head and handed his card to her.

“If you need anything, I mean it; call me.” She nodded and took the card, and Sam walked back into the room. You shut the computer and stood up quickly—maybe a little too quickly, as the brothers looked at you curiously. You gave your condolences to the daughter one more time and curtly exited the house. The brothers looked at each other and excused themselves.

In the Impala, it was quiet until Sam spoke up.

“Did you find anything on the computer?” You didn’t, but it wasn’t because you didn’t know anything for sure; it was because you couldn’t focus on digging.

“No, I needed more time,” Dean spoke up.

“I could have stalled her more if you needed.” You roll your eyes from the back, not realizing Dean was watching you.

“I’m sure you could of.” Sam swallowed, already knowing what this was about and where this conversation was going. Dean’s jaw clenched.

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“You know exactly what that means.” You snapped back at Dean with an attitude, not looking at him but out the window.

“How about you elaborate for me?” Dean barked at you. You rolled your eyes once again.

“I swear to God, you roll your eyes one more time-“

“What, Dean, you’ll what? See that girl again? Rub on her again and call her all these cute little pet names? Go ahead.”

“That’s what this is about? Are you serious?” Anger fills you more as he is about to invalidate how you feel.

“Tell me you were just doing it to get information from her Dean. Look me in my eyes and tell me that.” You snapped, looking at him from the back seat.

“Uh, don’t do that right now; I don’t want to get into an accident,” Sam says quickly, knowing that Dean would do something like that to prove a point while driving. The Impala pulls up to the motel you three are staying at, and you fly out of the car, trying to escape Dean as quickly as possible.

“Oh no, sweetheart, we aren’t done. Get back here!” Dean yells after you. You ignore him and use your key to get into the room. You can’t even shut the door before Dean comes through it.

“She hugged me, crying. What did you want me to do- be an asshole and push her off me? That would have got us the information.” He snapped at you as you turned and looked at him.

“You didn’t have to rub her back, call her sweetheart, or tell her if she needed anything to call you!” You started to raise your voice at him.

“You are taking it out of context! I was trying to comfort her so she would tell us what we needed to know! She was hiding something!”  His voice raised.

“That’s not the only reason!”  You got louder.

“You think?!” He got louder.

“I know, Dean!” You got louder.

“You’re wrong!” He got louder.

“Oh yeah, prove it!” You got louder.

“Because I love you, dammit! I wouldn’t do that to the person I love most!” He yelled as loud as he could.

You went silent.

You stared at him. His chest heaved up and down, and he was breathing hard, trying to keep his cool as best as he could. He looked at you in the eyes.

“Because I love you.” Is all he said again, quieter. You walked over to him and hugged him. He was hiding your face in the crook of his neck. He has never told you that he loved you out loud. It was always shown through his actions. Your heart hammered as your brain replayed what he said over and over. He wrapped his arms around you and held you close, his face against your head. You pulled from his neck and looked at him, still hugging him.

“I love you too.” He smiled a small smile at you.

“You mean everything to me. When you came into my life full-time, I couldn’t look at anyone else the same; you are the only person I want. You turned my whole lifestyle upside down, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I only have eyes for you. Don’t ever forget that.” You nod, not able to form words. He leans and kisses you on the lips. You bring your hands up to his hair and tug a little, earning a groan from him. He deepens the kiss as his hands slide down to your butt. The motel door opens just as he grabs your shirt to lift it over your head.

“Hey, did you guys—OH, okay, never mind, guess you did,” Sam says, red in the face. You two break apart, your face turning red as Sam has never walked in on you two before. Dean looks at Sam.

“Thank you for that, Sam.” You giggle and kiss Dean’s cheek as you help Sam with the bags he is bringing. Your heart is whole, and the insecurities are gone again.

[kemetic-dreams]

Bakongo spiritual protections influenced African American yard decorations. In Central Africa, Bantu-Kongo people decorated their yards and entrances to doorways with baskets and broken shiny items to protect from evil spirits and thieves.

This practice is the origin of the bottle tree in Hoodoo. Throughout the American South in African American neighborhoods, there are some houses that have bottle trees and baskets placed at entrances to doorways for spiritual protection against conjure and evil spirits.

In addition, nkisi culture influenced jar container magic. An African American man in North Carolina buried a jar under the steps with water and string in it for protection. If someone conjured him the string would turn into a snake. The man interviewed called it inkabera

[odetojupiter]

i’m back on my numbers bullshit again - up next: jean moreau. (i cannot say any of this was done intentionally but i know for a fact there’s weight to at least some of the numbers in the series, so if i give all of them weight u can’t stop me)

firstly, the number 3:

obviously there are a lot of biblical connotations for the number three, as important scriptures in the bible are repeated three times. the trinity is also represented by the number 3 (father, son, holy spirit). instances such as jesus’s resurrection on the third day etc etc. the spiritual meaning of the number three therefore includes both wholeness, and resurrection/new life.

relating this to jean - jean’s number represents wholeness despite him being broken down so completely in the nest. he feels fractured, but it’s his place in evermore, in the perfect court, that becomes his lifeline. he tells himself constantly - i am a raven, i belong to the moriyamas - and his place as a raven is signified through the number three. so despite feeling so shattered, the three on his face, representing wholeness, acts as a constant reminder of what he is capable of - i.e. the perfect court. no matter how broken he is, he still has a place on the line, he’s still whole enough to live. (this is not to say, of course, that he should have been playing like that, just that the symbol of the three became a signifier of his worth to him during this time, and since it represents wholeness and complete perfection, it was a way he could motivate himself to hang on to life a little longer. this can be seen in tsc through how much jean genuinely believes the perfect court is a measure of skill, and he does not doubt his abilities or whether he is worth the number).

and then - resurrection + new life. jean finishes his THIRD year of college in a new environment, healing from a near death experience, and is finally given room to become someone other that riko’s property. his complete resurrection is marked through the adoption of a new number - he sheds the number three for the number twenty nine, beginning his new life for good.

outside of the bible, the number three still holds significance: it also represents sincerity, understanding, spirituality, and loyalty. i like to think jean displays all of these traits. and i can’t not mention jean’s complicated relationship with religion when talking about the number three.

now on to mentions of the number three in tsc:

- jean takes three attempts to talk to renee when he first wakes in south carolina.

- abby says it’s another three weeks before jean will heal enough to travel, and three months minimum before he can get back on the court

- jean has three fractured ribs

- jean and zane were roommates for three years

- three remaining members of the perfect court

- after jean hangs up on jeremy the first time, he lets it ring three times before answering again

- riko trapped jean in a box for three days (can i consider his reemergence from the box a reimagining of jesus coming back from the dead after three days, or is that blasphemy? idk im not religious)

- jean had three outfits in the nest

- jean had been on the raven line for three years

- the three housemates: jean cat and laila vs the three friends: jeremy cat and laila

there a lot more mentions of the number three in tsc but i deemed them insignificant cause it’s a lot to do with height and numbers of players

if anyone’s curious i can do another post on the significance of the number 29, since this post is getting long now 😭

[captain-price-unofficially]

B-2 (Evil11/Spirit of South Carolina) heading out for its Red Flag mission with the Las Vegas strip in the background. Nellis AFB, NV 2024

[john-laurens]

Francis Kinloch & Miss Stephens

I've long been curious about a "Miss Stephens" mentioned in the September 30, 1776 letter from John Laurens to Francis Kinloch:

You seem to be in such high spirits at [Wr]iting the name of fair Miss Stephens, that I have a notion there is a Liaison de Coeur in question, if so I congratulate you both with all my Heart, I have not seen her a great while but shall see her with more pleasure than ever if she is to be yours_ … As the fair Lady abovementioned is advised to go to Italy for her Health, you will probably leave Genevé sooner than you intended; in case this does not arrive in time for your perusal at Genthod, I have directed Mr Hammond to find out your Address, and forw[ard] it to you_ present my best Respects to our Country woman and believe me yours. JL.

From this brief section, we can gather a few pieces of information about the mysterious Miss Stephens:

She was American and potentially from South Carolina ("our Country woman"). At this time, each of the American colonies were often thought of and acted more like individual countries rather than a unified group of states, so it's possible that Laurens meant that Miss Stephens was from Laurens and Kinloch's shared home colony of South Carolina.

She knew both Kinloch and Laurens (whether she met them in America or Europe is impossible to say).

She had some sort of health issue that seems to have prompted her (and Kinloch's) trip to Italy.

The relationship between her and Kinloch was so serious/passionate that Laurens was under the impression that the two would be married.

Of the surviving Kinloch-related letters from this time period, this is the only mention of Miss Stephens by name. I've searched through The Papers of Henry Laurens for any mention of a woman with the last name of Stephens/Stevens, but I haven't found anything substantial. I did learn that John Stevens, the deputy postmaster of Charleston, had a daughter named Eunice, but she was married to William Brisbane in 1768.

Interestingly, there is no surviving mention of Miss Stephens in the Johannes von Müller letters that discuss Kinloch's impending Italy trip. Müller implies that he was also planning on traveling with Kinloch to Italy, had circumstances allowed it:

I must ask you for advice. You know my destination for the summer. Next winter, either Italy or, without a doubt, Genthod. - Johannes von Müller to Karl Victor von Bonstetten, 1776 My friend K is going to Italy. It is difficult; but the North American war and my work, which would be too disrupted, prevent me from accompanying him. - Johannes von Müller to his father, October 10, 1776

Müller does make reference to a matter that delayed Kinloch's travels - this delay may have been due to uncertainties around finances and the recently started American Revolutionary War:

Letters from England have convinced Mr Kinloch to move his planned journey forward to the autumn. - Johannes von Müller to his brother, June 1776

Müller later makes a reference to Kinloch leaving in the fall, which aligns more with the Laurens-Kinloch letter:

Kinloch is leaving, when? I do not know, but certainly before the 10th October, for three days to Iverdun; I am not going with him. - Johannes von Müller to Karl Victor von Bonstetten, September 18, 1776

Even in these various mentions of Kinloch's Italy trip, there is no mention of the possibility of Kinloch meeting up with a woman or even rearranging his departure due to the health of a woman. I have wondered if this could be a sort of avoidant behavior on Müller's part. Müller seems to have experienced same-sex attraction, as made particularly clear by a fake love letter scandal (a former student put on a fake male identity and exchanged passionate letters with Müller in an attempt to defraud him). Müller also clearly expressed a deep love for Kinloch, so it's possible that Müller was jealous of or saddened by the possibility of Kinloch seriously courting a woman. Interestingly, there are a couple likely mentions of Miss Stephens in some letters from Kinloch to Müller, written after Kinloch's trip to Italy:

Mon americaine, as you are pleased to style the Lady I saw at Florence, n'est point de tout mon fait_ She "altius tendit," now whenever I marry, it w[ill] be some Woman who thinks She could not possibly have done better_ besides I know a poor man who is desperately in love with the Lady in question_ - Francis Kinloch to Johannes von Müller, May 16, 1777 If ever I marry any Woman, this will be my choice; for as to the Americaine I saw at Florence, il n’en est pas question_ - Francis Kinloch to Johannes von Müller, May 30, 1777

Here are English translations of the French and Latin (French translations provided by @my-deer-friend):

My American, as you are pleased to style the Lady I saw at Florence, it is not of my doing_ She "aims higher," now whenever I marry, it w[ill] be some Woman who thinks She could not possibly have done better_ besides I know a poor man who is desperately in love with the Lady in question_ - Francis Kinloch to Johannes von Müller, May 16, 1777 If ever I marry any Woman, this will be my choice; for as to the American I saw at Florence, there's no question of it_ - Francis Kinloch to Johannes von Müller, May 30, 1777

Presumably, this woman is Miss Stephens, as she is American and met up with Kinloch in Italy (both of these points were noted in the Laurens-Kinloch letter). This presents a very different picture of the Stephens-Kinloch relationship than the one presented in the Laurens-Kinloch letter. Kinloch traveled to various cities across Italy during his trip, and he seems to have only briefly met with Miss Stephens in Florence. It does not appear here that he made the trip to Italy with a large focus on Miss Stephens or her health, as Laurens's letter suggested. Additionally, there is finally an acknowledgement of Miss Stephens by Müller - and he seems to have perhaps encouraged Kinloch's relationship with Miss Stephens (or teased him about it). In the May 16, 1777 letter, Kinloch writes that the "Mon americaine" nickname given to Miss Stephens was not his idea but rather Müller's. Perhaps Müller had met her in Geneva prior to her move to Italy. And most importantly, we finally have an answer as to why Kinloch never married the Miss Stephens he was supposedly courting - she rejected him! Kinloch was apparently a little bitter about it. He quickly deflects by making a reference to his family's motto (altius tendo - aim higher) and is in disbelief that Miss Stephens could find a better partner than him. He also notes that there is some other "poor man" who loves Miss Stephens and may marry her - clearly he sees this man as a step down from himself. My opinion? Miss Stephens 1000% could have done better than Kinloch and was right to reject him. Way to dodge that bullet, girl. I hope you lived a happy, fulfilling life without him. Me in 2024 reading about Kinloch getting rejected ~250 years ago:

While we may never know much more about the mysterious Miss Stephens, it was great to finally get some closure about her relationship (or lack thereof) with Kinloch. Thanks to @my-deer-friend for help with the German and French translations!

[viadescioism]

Haint blue

"Haint blue is a range of pale, blue-green colors that are often used to paint porch ceilings in the Southern United States. The tradition originated with the Gullah people in Georgia and South Carolina. 

Haint blue was originally thought to ward off ghosts or evil spirits (also called haints). It was meant to mimic the appearance of the sky or water and trick the spirit into leaving. 

Haint blue was used on more than just ceilings. It was also used on: Exterior trim, Decor, Windows, Shutters. 

The color was influenced by spiritual traditions that included wearing blue beads and clothing, because it was thought to offer protection. 

A popular shade of haint blue is hex #D1EAEB."

[nekatto]

Given that this is my first adoption advert, I decided to go with something basic… Basic white girl basic.

Without further ado, I present you the MeowBucks baristas: Madeleine, Mary Jane, Fontina the Big Cheese, My Little Pierogi, Gruyère, Bordeaux, and Artemis.

Accepting applications from residents of South Carolina and neighboring states only.

Bios for each cat as well as a link to the adoption form are under the cut.

logo (c) wafflestash on Etsy, used here with their written permission.

If you can’t adopt, but would like to support us, I have a cashapp ($kpao69) and PayPal (k-pao@outlook.com). I’m an independent foster and all food, litter, and vetting is paid for out of pocket. Any help is appreciated.

ADOPTION APPLICATION:

Adoption fee is $85

MADELEINE || SPAYED FEMALE

10/10 but she bamboozled me.

The one who started it all. I was walking my dog when this sweet mama approached me and meowed sadly at me. From that moment on, she had me hook, line, and sinker, and I ended up returning to the spot I met her and started feeding her, quickly gaining her trust and bringing her inside… Along with her seven relatives she had hidden in the bushes.

Despite being the grandma of the family, I believe she’s still a fairly young cat, possibly around three years old or so. Since her spay surgery, it’s almost like she’s trying to make up for the kittenhood she never got to have. She loves nothing more than batting toy mice across the floor and playing chase with her granddaughter Pierogi. When not zooming around, Madds is quite the cuddle bug and loves a warm lap to lay in.

MARY JANE | SPAYED FEMALE, ~3 yrs old

Mother of Fontina, Gruyère, and Pierogi. Now that her kittens are grown, Mary Jane is beyond done with wild kitten antics and looking for some place calm and quiet to settle down.

All in all a pretty chill cat, though not particularly social. Out of her relatives, she most prefers to spend time with her daughter Gruyère.

FONTINA THE BIG CHEESE | NEUTERED MALE, ~1 yr old

They say the key to a man’s heart is food, and that’s doubly true for Fontina! While he can be shy at times, add food to equation and he’s putty in your hands.

He’ll do just about anything for food and so far has even trained himself to go inside his carrier on command. Would make an excellent trick training candidate.

Ideally would prefer a home with his best friend and wrestling buddy, Bordeaux.

**Fontina has displayed a propensity for eating non-food items. Please be mindful of this and take appropriate precautions.

MY LITTLE PIEROGI | SPAYED FEMALE, ~1 yr old

When she first came here, Pierogi was a bit shaken by the overnight transition from living outside to living in a home and spent her first few days inside hiding. But now she’s come out of her shell and blossomed into the sweetest little girl, albeit still on the shy side. Loves churu, head-butting feet, and playing with wand toys.

**tentative. if no applications look promising I miiiight end up keeping her.

GRUYÈRE | SPAYED FEMALE, ~1 yr old

No, you’re not seeing double, though very different in personality, Fontina and Gruyère are our loveable void twins!

The princess of the group. Gruyère demands you provide her with your undivided attention at all times… or else.

Out of her siblings, she has the closest relationship with her mother, Mary Jane, and the mother-daughter pair can often be found grooming one another.

**though she’s never broken skin, Gruyère can be mouthy, and we'd recommend applying for a different cat if you have young children or elderly people in your home.

BORDEAUX | NEUTERED MALE, ~1 yr old

Sweet little Bordeaux had a very rough start to life. At just a few weeks old, Bordeaux lost both of his siblings and was briefly separated from his mom during a particularly nasty winter rainstorm. It was only through a stroke of luck (and his cries) he was found before it was too late.

But none of that has dampened his spirit! As you can undoubtedly see, Bordeaux is a silly young man who loves having fun.

Without fail, he turns everything into a game. You thought you were going to mop the floor? Nope! Time to play wrestle the mop away from the kitten for the thousandth time!

10/10 but you’ll never get anything done with home around. But with a kitten this cute, who can stay mad?

When he’s not being a menace to society, he can be found palling around with his best friend and brother from another mother, Fontina.

ARTEMIS | NEUTERED MALE, ~2.5 YRS OLD

The odd one out of the bunch. I’m unsure how, or even if, he’s related to the rest of the colony. All we know is that he was buddies with the other adult male of the group, Apollo, and they could often be found huddled up together for warmth.

Artemis is a sweet boy who wants very much to be someone’s one and only. Always the first to greet me when I come in. And don’t think he’s content with a simple pat on the head. He DEMANDS all the love and snuggles. Like, I’ll sit down to relax and next thing I know he’s climbing up on my shoulder and nuzzling me.

*would prefer a home with no other cats.

**Apollo will be going up for adoption separately as he needs to have a specialist vet preform his neuter due to some neurological issues.

[storiednhappy]

Androbesity

BHM Weight Gain / Masculinization

Just chapters 1-4 for now.

Chapter 1: The Campus

Nestled in the arid desert between Las Vegas and Palm Springs, far from the prying eyes of the world, lies the Androbesity Campus. A sanctuary designed for a singular purpose: to normalize and encourage obesity in adult men. This secluded haven, reminiscent of a luxury resort, is an ambitious social experiment aimed at redefining societal norms and offering a new perspective on health, community, and self-worth.

The concept of Androbesity was born from the minds of visionary thinkers who saw an opportunity to challenge the pervasive stigmas surrounding obesity. They believed in celebrating the intelligence and unique attributes of obese men, providing them a space to thrive without the constraints of a society that often judges them harshly. Thus, the Androbesity program was established, inviting one man from each U.S. state and territory, including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa, to live on the campus for four years, from ages 22 to 25.

Each year, 54 men are selected based on three criteria: high intelligence, significant obesity, and a commitment to fully participating in an experimental community. These men are chosen not just for their physical attributes but also for their potential to contribute intellectually and socially to the community. By the end of the four-year cycle, the campus hosts 216 residents, creating a diverse and dynamic environment.

Located in the harsh, sun-baked desert, the Androbesity Campus is a self-contained oasis where no one needs to venture outside. The campus is also a hub for research into supporting the complications and modifications required by an obese adult population. AO Corp, the organization behind Androbesity, is developing products designed to promote obesity and make it more socially desirable. Their efforts extend to media development, including informational programming, reality shows, and scripted series, all aimed at making an obese lifestyle more visible and accepted. Some former AO Men have already transitioned into careers as paid actors for AO Media, becoming the faces of this new movement.

The men arrive at Androbesity with varied backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences. They are introduced to a world where their size is not just accepted but celebrated. Here, they live and work remotely, supported by state-of-the-art facilities that cater to their every need. The campus is equipped with luxurious living quarters, expansive recreational areas, and cutting-edge technology, all designed to foster a sense of belonging and well-being.

Upon arrival, the new residents are greeted by a welcoming committee of peers and staff who guide them through the orientation process. The campus is a self-sustaining ecosystem, with each resident contributing to the community through remote work and participation in communal activities. The emphasis is on building a supportive network where every individual feels valued and empowered.

Among the new cohort are diverse individuals such as:

- Malik from New York, a talented musician whose creativity flourishes in the supportive environment of Androbesity. His initial skepticism about the program gives way to appreciation as he finds himself inspired by the communal spirit and the freedom to express himself without judgment.

- Joshua from South Carolina, a dedicated software developer who finds the campus’s advanced technological infrastructure ideal for his work. He discovers that the environment not only enhances his professional life but also provides a supportive community that encourages personal growth.

- Diego from Puerto Rico, an innovative entrepreneur who sees the potential in AO Corp’s mission. He brings his entrepreneurial spirit to the campus, collaborating on new product ideas and enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded individuals.

- Matt from Wisconsin, a former athlete whose journey to obesity has been one of both physical and emotional transformation. He finds solace in the acceptance and understanding offered by the Androbesity community, allowing him to redefine his identity and embrace his new lifestyle.

The gates of Androbesity symbolize a threshold to a new way of life, one where these men can explore their potential without societal pressures. The campus, with its lush gardens, sparkling lakes, and modern architecture, is a place of beauty and tranquility. It is a closed society, with strict privacy measures in place to ensure that the residents can live freely without external scrutiny. Visitors are allowed only on designated visiting days, twice a month, ensuring that the integrity and serenity of the community are maintained.

As the first chapter of this epic unfolds, we follow the journey of these men, each from a different part of the United States and its territories. Their stories will delve into their daily lives, their interactions, and the unique social structures that develop within this experimental community. It will explore how Androbesity reshapes their identities, fosters deep bonds, and creates a space where they can redefine what it means to live fully and unapologetically as obese men in modern America.

Through their stories, we will witness the power of acceptance, the strength of community, and the profound impact of living in an environment free from the limitations imposed by conventional societal norms. Welcome to Androbesity, where a new chapter in the lives of these remarkable men begins.

Chapter 2: Guaranteed Gains

From the moment they step through the gates of Androbesity, the men are enveloped in a sense of liberation. Here, their obesity is not just accepted but embraced, and they are encouraged to explore the fullness of life without the typical societal constraints. Yet, hidden within the layers of welcoming gestures and luxurious amenities lies an unspoken truth: weight gain is not just an expectation, but a requirement.

Buried in the fine print of their contracts is the clause that binds them to a pact of inevitable transformation. Each year, the Board of Directors of Androbesity convenes in a secret meeting to determine the minimum weight gain for that year. The specifics vary, depending on the scenarios the Board wishes to explore and the occupations of the men. This calculated approach ensures that each individual’s experience aligns with the overarching goals of the experiment.

The men are never informed of the exact minimum weight they are expected to gain. Instead, they are monitored closely, and if they fall behind, they are gently but firmly guided back on track. Monthly assessments by Androbesity’s team of specialized doctors ensure that every resident is progressing towards the unseen target. The corrective actions are subtle yet effective, tailored to ensure compliance without overt confrontation.

Resistance is not uncommon. Some men, buoyed by their newfound freedom, may attempt to assert control over their bodies, choosing to eat less or even trying to lose weight. These periods of rebellion are anticipated by Androbesity, serving as opportunities to test and refine their methods for countering diet resistance. The doctors at Androbesity, known as AO Doctors, never argue or confront. Instead, they employ a range of psychological and physiological strategies designed to ensure compliance.

For example, Malik from New York, a talented musician, initially resists the constant indulgence. His strict regime soon falters under the relentless hospitality of Androbesity. Meals are tailored to his tastes, abundant and irresistible. The supportive environment subtly reinforces positive associations with overeating, making resistance increasingly futile.

Joshua from South Carolina, a disciplined and health-conscious software developer, tries to maintain his previous eating habits. However, his environment soon proves too tempting. The campus's advanced technological infrastructure and social activities make it easy for him to lose track of his calorie intake.

Diego from Puerto Rico, an innovative entrepreneur, views the mandated weight gain as a challenge to his autonomy. His initial attempts to maintain his weight are met with increased social activities centered around food. The pressure is never overt, but the implications are clear—he is expected to participate fully in the culinary culture of Androbesity.

Matt from Wisconsin, a former athlete, struggles with the psychological aspects of his weight gain. His competitive nature drives him to challenge the system, but the community's acceptance and understanding begin to erode his resistance.

As the year progresses, each man’s journey towards the mandated weight gain becomes a testament to Androbesity’s underlying mission. The methods employed to ensure compliance are meticulously documented, providing invaluable data for the Board. These strategies, once perfected, hold the potential to extend beyond the campus, influencing societal norms and promoting universal male obesity.

The men, immersed in their lives on the campus, become living experiments in a controlled environment designed to reshape their identities and physicalities. The careful balance of freedom and control, indulgence and discipline, creates a unique dynamic where resistance is met with gentle yet unwavering redirection.

Chapter 3: The Call

The camera panned over the serene, sun-soaked landscape of the Androbesity campus, capturing its pristine beauty before cutting to a close-up of Malik, seated comfortably on a plush armchair in his well-appointed room. The setting was warm and inviting, designed to put him at ease as he prepared to share his story with the world. The AO Media team had set up the perfect ambiance, with soft lighting and a backdrop that highlighted the modern elegance of the campus.

Malik took a deep breath, his dark eyes reflecting a mix of emotions as he began to speak. "When I got the call from Androbesity, it was a moment of pure disbelief. I mean, how often do you get a call telling you that you’re both incredibly intelligent and, well, significantly overweight?"

He chuckled softly, the sound tinged with a hint of irony. "It’s a strange combination, right? Society doesn’t often put those two things together. You’re either seen as the smart guy or the fat guy, rarely both. But here I was, being recognized for my intelligence and my size. It was surreal."

The video cut to scenes of Malik’s life before Androbesity: a cluttered apartment in New York, stacks of music sheets on a piano, and glimpses of his bustling life as a musician. The narration continued over these images, providing a glimpse into the world he had left behind.

"I was always torn between my passions and my appearance," Malik explained. "Music was my escape, but my weight was always this shadow hanging over me. When the call came, it felt like someone had finally seen me for who I really am—a talented, intelligent man who also happens to be obese."

The video shifted back to Malik in his room, his expression growing more introspective. "There’s a conflict that comes with that call. On one hand, you’re flattered and excited. Androbesity is prestigious. It’s an honor to be chosen. But then there’s the other part of you that questions it. Am I really that fat? Can I really leave my life behind for four years?"

He paused, his gaze drifting as if recalling the moment vividly. "But then you think about the opportunity. The chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. To be in a place where your size isn’t a burden but a badge of honor. And the more you think about it, the harder it becomes to say no."

The scene transitioned to Malik walking through the campus, interacting with fellow residents, and engaging in various activities. The sense of community and acceptance was palpable, a stark contrast to the isolation he had often felt back in New York.

"Androbesity isn’t just about living with your size," Malik continued. "It’s about gaining perspective, gaining confidence. Here, you’re not just accepted; you’re celebrated. Your intelligence, your talents, your size—they all matter. They all make you who you are."

The camera zoomed in on Malik’s face, capturing the sincerity and depth of his words. "So, why don’t you say no? Because deep down, you know this is a chance to be part of something revolutionary. To challenge the norms, to embrace who you are fully. It’s not just an experiment; it’s a new way of life. And that’s something you just can’t walk away from."

While Malik spoke passionately about the community and acceptance at Androbesity, he never mentioned the weight gain explicitly. This unspoken rule was well understood among the residents. Discussions about their weight and the expectations surrounding it were kept private, shared only with trusted friends and the AO Doctors. On camera, the focus remained on the positive aspects of their experience, maintaining the program's image of empowerment and self-discovery.

The video ended with a panoramic view of the Androbesity campus at sunset, the sky ablaze with colors, symbolizing the dawn of a new era for men like Malik. As the screen faded to black, Malik’s final words resonated in the silence: "This is where we redefine what it means to be smart, to be fat, to be human."

Chapter 4: The Bottomless Plate

Matt sat at the long dining table, the last of his fellow residents having long since left. He speared the final piece of roast beef from the platter in front of him and savored it, wondering if tonight would be the night they told him he couldn't have more. The thought gnawed at him, almost as much as his insatiable appetite.

In his former life in Wisconsin, Matt was accustomed to being told when enough was enough. At every buffet and family gathering, there came a point when someone would gently suggest he’d had his fill. But here at Androbesity, things were different. No one had yet told him to stop, and the abundance seemed limitless.

"Can I get more of that dessert?" he asked a passing server, pointing to the now-empty plate of chocolate cake.

"Of course, Mr. Matt," the server replied with a smile, heading back to the kitchen without hesitation.

Matt leaned back in his chair, his belly pressing against the table. He glanced around, noting the discreet cameras mounted in the corners of the dining hall. He knew they were there, but he didn't realize their full purpose. AO Media captured every meal he consumed, creating timelapse videos of his expanding stomach. These videos were studied in board meetings, analyzed for insights into their subjects' growth and behavior.

While Matt feared the day they might say no, AO Corp had no intention of letting that happen. His voracious appetite was precisely what they wanted to encourage, a living testament to their philosophy. The more he ate, the more valuable his data became for their research and media content. They were always prepared to bring more food, always ready to satisfy his cravings

Yet, the staff maintained the illusion of potential limits. They never outright offered more food unprompted; they waited for Matt to ask, ensuring he felt a sense of agency and uncertainty.

As he waited for his dessert, Matt pondered his peculiar situation. "They'll have to cut me off someday," he mused, half to himself. "No one can eat like this forever without someone stepping in."

But the truth was, the staff had no plans to curb his consumption. The more Matt ate, the more compelling his story became for AO Media, and the more data they collected on his extraordinary growth. His gradual transformation was a critical part of their secret plan to understand and promote the acceptance of obesity.

The server returned with a generous slice of chocolate cake, even larger than the last. Matt's eyes widened with delight as he dug in, savoring every rich bite. The cameras recorded his every move, capturing the subtle changes in his body with each meal.

"Enjoy, Mr. Matt," the server said warmly before leaving him to his feast.

Matt wondered how long this unlimited bounty could last. He finished the cake, feeling the familiar mix of satisfaction and curiosity. But for now, there were no limits in sight, only the promise of more.

And so, he continued to indulge, blissfully unaware of the true extent of Androbesity's plans. The staff remained ever accommodating, refilling his plate as many times as he requested, ensuring that Matt's journey of growth would never be interrupted.

[flaaffity-draws]

He's here!! A Halloween themed Clodsire! Sporting cute fangs and candy corn horns this spoopy boi is eager to bring the Halloween spirit to you! This cutie is available in my Etsy shop! (If you find yourself missing out on this and REALLY want one, feel free to DM me and I can make another for yah 😉)

[leonardalphachurch]

saw the question of “how long does it take rvb to pass the bechdel test” and i got curious and also wanted to make myself mad so.

my answer is Reconstruction: Chapter 5 (s6e5). there’s a recorded conversation between sheila and tex about the ship crashing.

my answer with no caveats is Evacuation Plan (s9e4). carolina, 479er, filss and south all participate in a conversation that takes up a good chunk of the episode.

i talk a LOT more about the state of female character interactions under the cut.

the first time two women talk at all is s2e11/bgc30:

sheila bisexual moments. while iconic, this isn’t much of a conversation (tex doesn’t ever speak to her) and it’s certainly about a man so. doesn’t count. next!

next is s3e1/bgc39:

while here it’s implied that they are actually having a conversation at least we still don’t actually see any exchanges between them and they’re still talking about men and quote “Boring stuff like oppression, and a hostile work environment.” which is great but. a) we don’t see it. and b) again, still about men

next is tex and kai’s exchange in season 5. which is misogynistic as fuck and even if it did pass the bechdel test i would refuse to count it. but guess what! not only are they talking about men, but we literally do not see them talk to each other. kai speaks to tex “who’s o’malley?” but tex doesn’t respond to her, instead asking the guys “who’s the girl?” (s5e10/bgc92). then they talk in the background of the next episode while church and tucker are misogynistic. then it’s two more episodes until we get this gem

y’know, girl stuff! how fucking charming. these writers really have a great grasp on how woman act. god, it’s even worse when compared to tex and sheila’s conversation earlier. in what world would tex be fucking intimidated by kai.

and you know what the joke of this all is. even if they did have a conversation here that passed the bechdel test it still wouldn’t count under some rule sets because kai still doesn’t have a name at this point. great work team.

s5e15/bgc92 has a deleted scene where kai calls up a girl friend and they talk… i’m not counting it because 1) kai is as of yet unnamed and the girl friend is never named, 2) the conversation is ostensibly about junior, though they do talk about other stuff enough that you could argue it’s not about a man, but 3) it’s deleted. you don’t get credit for shit you deleted.

next time two women talk to each other is recovery one episode 4. this is the first time we see two women have an actual, back and forth conversation. the conversation is between south and commamd about wash, delta, and the fact that south isn’t rejoining freelancer. i do think this conversation fits the spirit of the bechdel test (two women talking to each other with deeper characterizations unmoored from being about men) but that’s only really by technicality. command isn’t a character here and doesn’t become one for another 4 seasons; the conversation is only retroactively a deeper one. it’s up to you whether or not you pass it. i think it’s important to remember that the bechdel test isn’t really a hard test to determine what’s feminist (and was made in the first place to be about queer women being able to see themselves in media) but rather a marker to help sort out if the female characters in a work are allowed any depth outside of men. this exercise is less about finding a scene fitting exact criteria and more about. me going oh god it really is fucking bad out there huh.

my actual pick, as i said in the beginning, is s6e5. though tex mentions gamma and the aliens, the conversation is still about the fact that the ship is crashing. and in terms of the spirit of the test, two women yelling at each other as they die definitely fits definitely fits “deeper character motivations outside of men” imo. it’s. kind of really sad though. the first time we ever see tex and sheila have an actual conversation is the last time we really see either of them, chronologically. we only got to see them have a relationship as they were dying. why couldn’t they have been friends in life.

if a recorded conversation isn’t good enough for you, you’ll have to wait until s8e15. season 7 does not have a single woman in it. tεx and filss talk about pfl’s files. it’s not exactly an in depth back and forth and the conversation is shared with simmons and church but. it’s something. i think sheila and tex’s convo fits the spirit of the test a bit more but. let’s chalk it up to two conversations in the 8 seasons. fantastic.

all right, season 9 time. come on, a third of the main cast is women! that’s gotta bring our numbers up, right?

episode 1? no. 2? no. 3?

incredible! we have a conversation between female operative and pilot! just kidding. the wiki doesn’t name them bc they haven’t been named yet, but this is a conversation between carolina and niner! no funny business! just an actual conversation between woman! wow. only took us nine seasons to get to a point where i can confidently say something passes the bechdel test with no caveats. unless we look at the 60 second rule. then. oops.

but… wow! episode 4 has… THREE women? talking to each other? and then a fourth joins in? i thought it was a myth! being able to handle so many women on screen at once… they really did something special here. anyway, this episode is the first to pass with flying colors. i can’t time shut bc i don’t have the videos on hand but i’m certain this passes the 60 second mark. great work! if only it didn’t take you nine years to get to this point.

ugh. i had more written past this point but tumblr erased it and i don’t feel like fucking redoing it. i got to the point i wanted to so. maybe i’ll continue this later. would like to explore the rest of pfl and chorus. it’s impressive how well pfl manages to avoid having women actually speak to each other. they’ll literally be in the same conversation but never actually address each other. this happens multiple times.

[propheticeve]

Black American trance work : Shouting

The evolution of the ring shout serves as proof of resilience, creativity, and the enduring connection between faith and culture. The ring shout is not just a dance; it's a sacred form of expression that bridges the realms of the earthly and the divine. Unique to the Hoodoo and Christian faiths, the ring shout has a complex history that mirrors the multifaceted nature of Black spirituality in the United States.

The history of the ring shout is as diverse as the regions and church denominations in which it thrives. In a society where African Americans were subjected to the oppressive forces of slavery and its accompanying suppression of cultural practices, the ring shout emerged as a form of worship that allowed a connection with the divine, even when drumming and dancing were prohibited in many church settings.

One of the defining features of the ring shout is its minimalistic approach to musical accompaniment. Unlike many religious dances, the ring shout typically relies on clapping and stomping as opposed to musical instruments. This made it permissible within church contexts after the formal worship, opening the door for spiritual expression that was otherwise suppressed.

The earliest recorded encounters with the ring shout by outsiders occurred during the Civil War in 1861, particularly in the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. It was during this tumultuous period that the world began to witness the profound spiritual and cultural significance of the ring shout.

In contemporary times, shouting, or "praise breaks," is far more than a testament to one's connection with Jesus or Christian faith. It is a profound method of connecting with the divine through worship, one that encompasses a range of powerful components. These can include speaking in tongues, bodily convulsions, prophecies, falling unconscious and being covered with a white cloth, crying, screaming, and experiencing what is often referred to as "catching the Holy Ghost."

The concept of the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit, in Christianity has been a source of deep reflection for many. For some, catching the Holy Ghost is an intensely personal and transformative experience. It's a moment when something stirs deep within, leading to powerful releases of emotion and spiritual energy.

The traditions of praise breaks and ring shouts are not confined to a single denomination or cultural group. They are woven into the fabric of various Black American cultures, including the Gullah Geechee community, the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), Holiness and Pentecostal traditions, and more.

The key here is understanding that Black Americans have a unique way of connecting with the divine, one that may differ from other cultures. This distinct form of trance work, often deemed "bad" by those who fail to recognize its roots, is deeply intertwined with African and Indigenous practices.

The practices seen in the Black church are not confined solely to Christianity. Rather, they encompass a tapestry of African and Indigenous traditions that have persevered through generations of slavery and dehumanization. From dance to drumming, these practices echo ancestral roots in Voodoo, Obeah, Santeria, and various African Traditional Religions (ATRs).

Praise breaks and ring shouts extend far beyond the act of talking to God; they are gateways to connecting with spirit. These traditions are a testament to the diverse ways in which Black Americans express their spirituality and connect with the divine.

The Black American church has always represented more than just faith in Jesus; it has stood as a beacon of justice, healing, home, and peace. While this isn't an attempt to convince anyone to join a church, it serves as a reminder that we can connect with our ancestors through praise breaks, shouting, and songs of praise.

The words themselves are not what matter most; it's the intention, the energy, and the connection with spirit that hold the true power. Whether you're engaging in dance, song, or a simple prayer, know that your intent and the energy you conjure are your magick—a direct gateway to your ancestors and a testament to the resilience and creativity of Black spirituality.

I often wondered who is the holy ghost exactly, have i caught him? I think so i remember a time where i felt something stir up within me so deep and i let out a belt, i had to be aorund 11 or 12, it was like a release and i began to cry out to God. Not to Jesus but to something deeper than what i was taught to belive god to be. Around 16 I felt this energy in the church setting again however this time it was different but much more potent, this was the enrgy that sent me on my Journey of Spiritualism. Back to shouting.

You see This show up in so many different black american cultures such as the Gullah geechees, Cogics and holiness and pentecostal. As black people we tend to connect to the divine differently then other, i mean every culture has their own way of connection right? Why is black american trance work deemed bad because one may not understan the difference between Christianity and Black spirituality.

Almost everything you see being done in the black church is not CHRISTIAN and has nothing to do with the bible, rather its full of african and indigenous practices that have been watered down thru generations of slavery and dehumanization.

I must say, as a Holiness Hoodoo myself not everyone can “shout” but hey different strokes for different folks.

But one must ask who is the Holy Ghost and why does this spirit show up so differently for black americans. This is something I deem to explore as whatever religion black people touch ALWAYS shifts culturally.

In the heart of the Black American church, there lies a profound reservoir of emotion, detail, and a connection that transcends the mere belief in Christ. It stands not only as a sanctuary of faith but as a beacon of justice, healing, home, and peace. The Black church has always been a cornerstone of the community, providing solace and strength in the face of adversity.

A Legacy Beyond Belief

The power of the Black church is not solely rooted in the teachings and sermons but also in the deep well of feelings and connections that are forged within its walls. From the resounding rhythm of drums to the uplifting harmony of songs and the transformative energy of dance, the Black church is a testament to the multifaceted nature of faith and spirituality.

It serves as a pillar of justice, where voices rise together to demand equality and fight against injustice. It is a place of healing, where the wounded find solace and rejuvenation in the embrace of their community. It is a home, a sanctuary where individuals come as they are, finding not just shelter but a sense of belonging. And, most importantly, it is a source of peace, offering respite from the trials of the world and a place to commune with the divine.

A Call to Connect

Now, this is not a plea to join a church; rather, it's an invitation to connect with the spiritual legacy that runs deep in the Black community. Consider making it a practice to "shout" for your ancestors, to engage in a "praise break" when the spirit moves you. The words you use matter less than your intention, your energy, and the connection you forge with the divine.

Your songs of praise become a vessel, carrying the feelings, memories, and ancestral energy that you conjure with every note and every step. This is your magick—a direct gateway to your ancestors, a bridge that spans generations, and a testament to the enduring strength of Black spirituality.

The Black American church has always been more than a place of worship; it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unity of a people who have found strength in their faith. In your own way, whether within the walls of a church or the quiet of your home, you can tap into this powerful legacy and connect with the divine.

Please remember to SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! My Mind and Me inc 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting Mindfulness in urban communities is teaming with Temple of living word LLC to purchase our very own Praise house where you can come and practice your ATR judgment free ! Click the link below to read, share and support !