#tales of samaria

[gleephoria]

Okay, I finally finished my re-read of all the Tales of Samaria books by Sharon Shinn (including short stories) and I still really love that world and so many of the characters. I have my gripes but I'm staying positive.

Archangel will always reign supreme because Gabriel is magnificent and the stakes are so tense.

But Jovah's Angel with Alleluia's romance with Caleb is *chef's kiss* and Angelica gives us a very sweet slow burn with Susannah and Gaaron.

My main gripe is there is no fandom. I need angels of Samaria smut, stat!

Because those books left us hanging, lol.

[artthatgivesmefeelings]

Anonymous Artist The Good Samaritan, Germany, 18th century “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31 Two of Jesus’s most well-known parables appear only in the Gospel of Luke but are very much a part of His message throughout His ministry. The first is known as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.’ Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’“ (Luke 10:30-37) It is difficult to overstate the impact this parable must have had on Jesus’s audience. A man is traveling on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho, a route known to be dangerous, where criminals lie in wait for unwary travelers. Sure enough, the man is attacked, beaten, and left by the side of the road. Two prominent members of the Jewish clergy come upon the scene and scuttle by on the other side of the road. And who becomes the hero of the tale? A man from Samaria, a region widely reviled in Galilee and Judea, whose people were considered unclean, inferior, and not to be valued or respected. To the traditional Jewish listeners, this parable must have come like a bolt from the blue, as it surely was not what they expected.

[forhim-aname]

Scripture of the Day - April 23, 2024 Ancient Technologies? From the Bible’s KJV with Strong’s Hebrew Definitions

JUDGE DEBORAH’S SONG OF PRAISE: Judges 5:1-3  Then sang Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam on that day, saying,   “Praise ye the LORD for the avenging of Israel, when the people willingly offered themselves. Hear, O ye kings; give ear, O ye princes; I, even I, will sing unto the LORD; I will sing praise to the LORD God of Israel…..” 

JUDGES 7-8  The inhabitants of the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel… They chose new gods; then was war in the gates: was there a shield or spear seen among forty thousand in Israel? (The Philistines had rid the Israelites of all their bladesmiths—1st Samuel 13:19.)   Judges 5:10 -11 - Speak, ye that ride on white (to dazzle - H6713) asses (A mighty, strong chieftain that continues as permanent—H386), ye that sit in judgment (the Tribe of Dan were Israel’s judges), and walk (to go along continually, be conversant + be eased +follow, go about, abroad, forward, on, out, up and down, be wont to haunt, run along and send, speedily, + tale-bearer, wayfaring man, X be weak, whirl - H1980) by the way; They that are delivered from the noise of archers in the places of drawing water - there shall they rehearse the righteous acts of the LORD, even the righteous acts—toward the inhabitants of his villages in Israel: then shall the people of the LORD go down to the gates. (This was the habit of the judges, who rode in ships above the enemy—see verse 17 - “And why did Dan remain in ships?”

Judges 5:19-20 - The kings came and fought; then fought the KINGS OF CANAAN in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money; They FOUGHT FROM HEAVEN; the stars (something or someone to prick and penetrate - H3554) in their courses fought against Sisera.  (I take it, this King Jabin was so evil, that all the other Canaanite kings wanted to see his demise.)

DEBORAH’S PROPHECY FOR THE INHABITANTS OF MARS DURING THE 70 AD SIEGE OF JERUSALEM: Judges 5:23  Curse ye Meroz (Mars), said the angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty (powerful, VALIANT MAN or warrior - H1368). 

EMPEROR VESPASIAN IN 70 AD: Isaiah 10:11-14 - I will send him against an hypocritical nation, and against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets…  For he saith, “… As my hand hath found the kingdoms of the idols, and whose graven images did excel them of Jerusalem and of Samaria; Shall I not, as I have done unto Samaria and her idols, so do to Jerusalem and her idols?” …“By the strength of my hand I have done it, and by my wisdom; for I am prudent: and I have removed the bounds of the people, and have robbed their treasures, and I have put down the inhabitants like a VALIANT MAN: And my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people: and as one gathereth eggs that are left, have I gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved the wing, or opened the mouth, or peeped.”

WISEMEN OF EPHRAIM IN 70 AD: Isaiah 28:1-3 - Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim… Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm…(see the ‘scar on mars’)—shall cast down to the earth with the hand, The crown of pride; the drunkards of Ephraim shall be trodden under feet! 

[gokitetour]

The Top 7 Unbelievable Things to Do in Greece That You Should Know

Greece is a historical and mythological country that offers a remarkable tapestry of experiences that piques curiosity. Greece entices tourists with an incredible array of amazing things to do, from the historic wonders of Athens to the azure waters surrounding its picturesque islands. This Mediterranean jewel, the birthplace of Western civilization, welcomes exploration of its natural wonders, spiritual sanctuaries, and cultural treasures. Start the adventure in Athens, where the Acropolis serves as a reminder of the magnificence of classical Greece. Western culture's origins can be seen in the tales of gods and philosophers told by the Parthenon and other architectural wonders. Travel to the Aegean Islands from the mainland, where you can experience the dreamlike sights of Santorini's romantic vistas and Mykonos' enchanted streets while sailing through the Cyclades.

Explore the mystique of Delphi, which was once thought to be the center of the earth, and take in the monastic wonders of Meteora, where venerable monasteries are perched atop massive rock formations. In Crete, nature lovers can take on the strenuous hike through the Samaria Gorge, and those looking to unwind can visit the Edipsos thermal springs.

Enter the Olympia historical arena to experience the splendor of sports competition at the birthplace of the ancient Olympics. These incredible experiences capture the spirit of Greece, providing a rich and varied journey that reflects both the splendor of its present and the echoes of its legendary past.

Here are some unbelievable things to do in Greece that you should know.

1. Discover the Athens Acropolis: An Excursion Into Classical Greece: Greece's capital city, Athens, is home to the Acropolis, one of the most recognizable sites on earth. The Acropolis, which is perched atop a rocky outcrop, is a reminder of Greek civilization. Admire the Parthenon, a temple erected in honor of the goddess Athena, and tour the Propylaea, Erechtheion, and Athena Nike Temples. The nearby Acropolis Museum offers an enlightening look into the background and importance of these architectural wonders.

2. Sail the Aegean Islands: A Nautical Odyssey the Aegean Sea is home to a number of enchanted islands, each with its own distinct charm. From the busy streets of Mykonos to the serene landscapes of Santorini, sailing through these islands is a voyage through picture-perfect scenery. Learn about the local way of life and discover secret coves and crystal-clear waters. The Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Ionian islands offer a wide range of experiences, making island-hopping an amazing journey.

3. Delphi: Seek Knowledge in the Earth's Navel: In ancient Greek religion, Delphi, which is perched atop Mount Parnassus, was once thought to be the center of the world. Discover the archaeological site, which houses the renowned Charioteer, the Ancient Theater, and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. Delphi has a mystical quality about it, and the expansive views from the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia enhance both the ancient sanctuary's spiritual and aesthetic appeal.

4. Meteora Monasteries: An Architectural and Spiritual Wonder : A sight to behold are the monasteries of Meteora, which rise dramatically from the plains of Thessaly. These monasteries, perched atop enormous sandstone pillars, offer a singular fusion of the artistic creations of nature and human ingenuity. See the frescoes in monasteries like Varlaam and Great Meteoron and enjoy the breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. In addition to providing a window into the historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monasteries offer a profoundly spiritual experience.

5. Trek the Samaria Gorge: Experience Crete's Magnificent Nature: The Samaria Gorge in Crete is a hiking haven for those who love the outdoors and an exciting adventure. The longest gorge in Europe, stretching 16 kilometers, winds through a pristine wilderness of towering cliffs and lush vegetation. You can cool off in the Libyan Sea at the quaint village of Agia Roumeli, which is reached by trail. This hike is an incredible and thrilling experience because of the challenging terrain and varied flora and fauna.

6. Edipsos Thermal Springs: Health in the Middle of Nature: The island of Evia's Edipsos is well known for its healing thermal springs. Take advantage of these natural springs' healing properties and rejuvenate yourself in one of the many spa facilities. Legends of Aristotle and other great people partaking in the healing properties of these waters abound in the town's rich past. Take in the gorgeous Greek coastline scenery while indulging in the calming warmth of the springs.

7. Olympia: Relive the Olympic Glory of Antiquity: Visit Olympia, the site of the Olympic Games, to travel back in time to ancient Greece. Explore the remains of the Gymnasium, the Temple of Zeus, and the historic stadium where sportsmen formerly fought for honors. Artifacts like the Nike of Paionios and the Hermes of Praxiteles are kept in the Olympia Archaeological Museum. The website offers a fascinating look into Greece's sporting and historical heritage while also striking a chord with the spirit of the Olympic ideals.

Greece's incredible activities create a story of timeless beauty, cultural diversity, and experiences that are unmatched. Greece offers an abundance of opportunities for travelers looking for an amazing adventure, from the famous Acropolis in Athens to the ethereal beaches of the Aegean Islands and the mysterious landscapes of Meteora. Every visitor will be enveloped in unparalleled splendor due to the country's historical significance and breathtaking natural wonders. A Greece tourist visa from India opens the door to these incredible experiences for anyone hoping to take on this Greek adventure. Traveling through the many attractions of Athens, sailing the blue waters, and visiting historic sanctuaries all require the easy access that a tourist visa provides. It provides access to Greece's wonders, enabling visitors to take in the subtle cultural differences, savor delectable cuisine, and make memories among the backdrop of historic sites and contemporary marvels.

Embracing Greece's incredible experiences makes one an active participant in the nation's ongoing story, which has shaped civilization, as well as a witness to the country's profound history and natural wonders. Thus, a tourist visa to Greece issued from India becomes more than just a travel authorization; it's a key to unlocking the incredible experiences this enchanted Mediterranean paradise has to offer.

[ferrolano-blog]

Zizek: La verdadera línea divisoria entre Israel y Palestina... lo que realmente está en juego en Tierra Santa es la elección entre los fundamentalistas de ambos lados y todos aquellos que todavía creen en la posibilidad de una coexistencia pacífica... Las masacres, violaciones y secuestros de civiles en aldeas, kibutzim y un festival de música fueron un pogromo... Dicho esto, la situación exige un contexto histórico, no como ningún tipo de justificación, sino para aclarar el camino a seguir... Una primera consideración es la desesperación absoluta que caracteriza la vida de la mayoría de los palestinos... Después de alardear durante mucho tiempo de su condición de única democracia en Medio Oriente, Israel, bajo el actual gobierno de Netanyahu, se está transformando en un Estado teocrático... Ante tales compromisos, es absurdo reprochar a los palestinos que se nieguen a negociar con Israel. El propio programa oficial del gobierno actual descarta las negociaciones... Detrás de todas las polémicas actuales sobre quién se considera terrorista, está la masa de árabes palestinos que ha estado viviendo en un estado de limbo durante décadas. ¿Quiénes son y qué tierra es suya? ¿Son habitantes del “territorio ocupado”, “Cisjordania”, “Judea y Samaria” o… el Estado de Palestina, reconocido por 139 países y que ha sido un Estado observador no miembro de las Naciones Unidas desde 2012?

[tripmazaindia]

Once in a lifetime why should you visit these destinations in Europe?

GREECE

Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage: Greece is renowned for its ancient history and influential civilization. It is home to iconic archaeological sites such as the Acropolis in Athens, the ancient city of Delphi, and the ruins of Olympia. Exploring these historic sites allows you to immerse yourself in the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and Western civilization.

Stunning Landscapes: Greece boasts diverse landscapes that will leave you in awe. From the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of the Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos to the rugged cliffs of Meteora and the picturesque villages of Pelion, there is no shortage of natural beauty to discover.

Greek Islands: The Greek islands are a major draw for visitors. Each island has its own unique charm, offering a mix of gorgeous beaches, traditional villages, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Whether you prefer the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Crete or the peaceful serenity of Milos, the Greek islands offer something for everyone.

Delicious Cuisine: Greek cuisine is renowned worldwide for its flavors and freshness. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and fresh seafood. Pair your meals with local wines or ouzo, a traditional Greek spirit. Exploring the local food markets and tavernas is a culinary delight.

Warm Hospitality: Greek people are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality. The locals take pride in welcoming visitors and sharing their culture. You'll find yourself immersed in the Greek way of life, enjoying lively conversations, and experiencing true Greek hospitality.

Vibrant Festivals and Traditions: Greece has a rich tapestry of festivals and traditions throughout the year. From Easter celebrations and traditional weddings to local festivals and dance performances, you'll have the opportunity to witness and participate in unique cultural experiences.

Outdoor Activities: Greece offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Hiking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, exploring the caves of Kefalonia, sailing around the Ionian Islands, or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea are just a few of the exciting activities you can enjoy.

Mythology and Legends: Greece is the land of mythical tales and legends. Explore the ancient sites associated with Greek mythology, such as the Temple of Apollo in Delphi or the Palace of Knossos in Crete. Discover the stories of gods, goddesses, and legendary heroes that have shaped Western literature and art.

Visiting Greece is a unique and transformative experience that offers a combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. It is a destination that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of this ancient land.

TURKEY

Crossroads of Cultures: Turkey's location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has resulted in a rich tapestry of cultures throughout history. The country has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations, among others. Exploring Turkey allows you to witness the unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions, architecture, and cuisine.

Historical and Archaeological Sites: Turkey is home to some of the most significant historical and archaeological sites in the world. The ancient city of Ephesus, with its well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Other remarkable sites include the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient city of Troy, and the magnificent Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.

Istanbul: As Turkey's largest city and a cultural melting pot, Istanbul deserves special mention. It straddles Europe and Asia, and its skyline is adorned with iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Exploring the bustling bazaars, cruising along the Bosphorus, and indulging in Turkish cuisine make Istanbul an unforgettable experience.

Natural Beauty: Turkey boasts diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the pristine beaches of the Turquoise Coast, the country offers a wealth of natural wonders. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the Kaçkar Mountains, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, or relax in thermal baths in the Aegean region.

Turkish Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is renowned worldwide for its flavors and variety. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes such as kebabs, baklava, mezes (appetizers), and Turkish tea or coffee. Sampling local delicacies in vibrant food markets or dining in traditional Turkish restaurants is a delightful culinary adventure.

Hospitality and Warmth: Turkish people are known for their hospitality, friendliness, and genuine warmth toward visitors. You'll be welcomed with open arms and have the opportunity to experience Turkish culture firsthand. The Turkish concept of "hospitableness" (misafirperverlik) ensures that guests are treated like family.

Whirling Dervishes and Sufi Traditions: Witnessing a performance by the Whirling Dervishes is a unique and mesmerizing experience. This ancient Sufi practice is a form of meditation and spiritual expression. The dervishes' whirling dance, accompanied by traditional music, symbolizes a mystical journey toward divine unity.

Hot Air Ballooning: Cappadocia, with its unique landscapes and rock formations, is one of the world's premier destinations for hot air ballooning. Soaring above the fairy chimneys during sunrise or sunset provides breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

Turkey offers a captivating blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, savoring delectable cuisine, or immersing yourself in Turkish traditions, a visit to Turkey is an extraordinary experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.

ISTANBUL

Unique Geographical Position: Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, straddling Europe and Asia. This geographical position has bestowed Istanbul with a fascinating blend of cultures, traditions, and architectural styles from both continents.

Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage: Istanbul has a history that spans over 2,500 years, serving as the capital of three great empires—the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The city is dotted with magnificent historical sites, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the ancient Hippodrome. Exploring these sites allows you to witness the remnants of these powerful civilizations.

Architectural Marvels: Istanbul boasts a stunning array of architectural marvels that reflect its diverse history. The Hagia Sophia, with its massive dome and intricate mosaics, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue tilework, is an architectural masterpiece. Istanbul's skyline is adorned with minarets, palaces, and Ottoman-era houses, creating a captivating visual tapestry.

Bosphorus Strait: The Bosphorus Strait, separating Europe and Asia, is a defining feature of Istanbul. Taking a cruise along the Bosphorus allows you to witness the city's stunning skyline, palaces, and waterfront mansions known as yalis. The cruise provides a unique perspective on Istanbul's beauty and offers opportunities to capture memorable photographs.

Vibrant Markets and Bazaars: Istanbul is famous for its vibrant markets and bazaars, where you can immerse yourself in the city's bustling atmosphere. The Grand Bazaar, with its labyrinthine alleys and thousands of shops, offers a treasure trove of textiles, ceramics, jewelry, spices, and more. Exploring the markets allows you to engage in haggling, experience Turkish hospitality, and discover unique souvenirs.

Culinary Delights: Istanbul is a paradise for food lovers. Turkish cuisine is rich in flavors, influenced by a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan culinary traditions. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes such as kebabs, Turkish delights, baklava, and Turkish tea. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the iconic Turkish street food, including simit (sesame-coated bread rings) and balik ekmek (grilled fish sandwiches).

Traditional Turkish Baths (Hamams): Experiencing a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. These centuries-old bathhouses offer a unique opportunity to relax, unwind, and indulge in a steam bath, exfoliation, and a rejuvenating massage. It's a culturally immersive and revitalizing experience.

Warm Hospitality: Istanbul is known for its warm hospitality and friendly people. The locals take pride in welcoming visitors and sharing their culture. You'll encounter genuine warmth, engaging conversations, and a sense of camaraderie that will make your visit to Istanbul truly special.

Visiting Istanbul allows you to immerse yourself in a captivating blend of history, culture, architecture, and culinary delights. It's a city that bridges continents and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for the vibrant spirit of this remarkable city.

ICELAND

Stunning Natural Landscapes: Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking and diverse natural landscapes. From majestic waterfalls such as Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss to the otherworldly beauty of the Blue Lagoon and the mesmerizing glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón, Iceland offers a visual feast of volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, black sand beaches, and rugged fjords.

Northern Lights: Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This dazzling natural phenomenon lights up the night sky with vibrant colours and is a bucket list experience for many travellers.

Geothermal Wonders: Iceland is a geothermal paradise, with numerous geysers, hot springs, and geothermal pools. The famous Geysir Geothermal Area is home to the Great Geysir and Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air. The Blue Lagoon is another must-visit destination, where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich geothermal waters.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Iceland offers a wide range of thrilling outdoor activities. You can go hiking on glaciers, explore ice caves, trek through volcanic landscapes, and even snorkel or dive between tectonic plates at Silfra in Þingvellir National Park. Iceland is also a paradise for birdwatching, whale watching, and fishing enthusiasts.

Unique Wildlife: Despite its remote location, Iceland is home to diverse and unique wildlife. You can spot puffins nesting along the coast, observe seals sunbathing on rocky shores, or embark on a whale-watching excursion to see majestic creatures such as humpback whales and orcas in their natural habitat.

Midnight Sun and Summer Solstice: During the summer months, Iceland experiences the Midnight Sun phenomenon, where the sun remains visible for almost 24 hours a day. This allows for extended daylight hours and unique opportunities to explore the country's landscapes and engage in outdoor activities late into the evening.

Iceland's Viking Heritage: Iceland has a rich Viking heritage and history. You can visit historical sites such as Þingvellir, the site of the world's oldest parliamentary institution, or the Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavik, which offers insights into the Viking Age and the country's settlement.

Unique Cultural Experiences: Iceland has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Reykjavik, the capital city, offers a range of museums, galleries, and theatres. Additionally, you can experience traditional Icelandic music, folklore, and cuisine, including tasting local delicacies such as fermented shark or hearty lamb stew.

Visiting Iceland offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness stunning natural phenomena, engage in thrilling outdoor adventures, immerse yourself in a rich Viking heritage, and experience the warm hospitality of the Icelandic people. It's a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

FRANCE

There are countless reasons why visiting France is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some compelling reasons to visit France:

Rich History and Cultural Heritage: France has a rich history and is home to some of the world's most iconic cultural treasures. From the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles to the historical significance of the Louvre Museum and the medieval charm of Mont Saint-Michel, France offers a wealth of historical and cultural sites to explore.

Stunning Architecture: France is renowned for its architectural marvels. The Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Gothic masterpiece of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, and the Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley are just a few examples of architectural gems that await visitors.

World-Class Museums and Art: France is a haven for art enthusiasts. The Louvre Museum, housing the iconic Mona Lisa, showcases an extensive collection of masterpieces. Other notable museums include Musée d'Orsay, home to an exceptional collection of Impressionist art, and the Centre Pompidou, known for its contemporary art exhibitions.

Scenic Beauty: France is blessed with diverse landscapes that offer breathtaking beauty. From the lavender fields of Provence to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux and the dramatic cliffs of the Normandy coastline, the country's natural scenery is awe-inspiring. The French Alps, the French Riviera, and the charming countryside villages are also worth exploring.

Gastronomy and Wine: French cuisine is renowned worldwide for its sophistication and flavors. Indulge in exquisite dishes such as coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, escargots, and crème brûlée. France is also famous for its wine regions, including Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and the Loire Valley, where you can savor exceptional wines and take vineyard tours.

Charming Villages: France is dotted with picturesque villages that exude charm and tranquility. Exploring places like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Annecy, Colmar, and Sarlat-la-Canéda allows you to experience the essence of French rural life, with their quaint streets, historic architecture, and delightful local markets.

Fashion and Shopping: France is a global fashion capital, and cities like Paris are synonymous with haute couture. From world-renowned designer boutiques on the Champs-Élysées to trendy vintage shops in Le Marais, France offers endless shopping opportunities for fashion enthusiasts.

Festivals and Celebrations: France is famous for its vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations. Witnessing events like the Cannes Film Festival, the Tour de France, or the Carnival of Nice provides a glimpse into the country's joie de vivre and festive spirit.

France offers a combination of history, art, natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural experiences that make it a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Whether you're strolling along the Seine in Paris, exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux, or discovering the charm of Provence, France captivates visitors with its timeless allure and leaves them with cherished memories.

Please reach out to us on the link given below or you can also call us on + 91 9775084000

Link: https://tours.tripmaza.com/packages/?&q=europe

[corallorosso]

Esercito e coloni: la tenaglia mortale in Cisgiordania Una morsa asfissiante: l’esercito da un lato, i coloni in armi dall’altra. In mezzo, i palestinesi della Cisgiordania. (...) “Il Consiglio regionale del Monte Hebron ha accolto con favore l'esercitazione tenuta questa settimana dalle Forze di difesa israeliane nei villaggi palestinesi nel sud della Cisgiordania e nei dintorni. In una dichiarazione il consiglio, che governa gli insediamenti ebraici della zona, ha detto che l'esercitazione era ‘uno dei modi per aumentare la governance, tenere lo spazio aperto e imporre la legge e l'ordine’. Il consiglio ha rivelato un segreto aperto: le zone di tiro della Cisgiordania hanno lo scopo di bloccare l'accesso dei palestinesi alle loro terre e di ostacolare lo sviluppo naturale e la crescita di città, villaggi e comunità di pastori. Questo è ‘tenere lo spazio aperto’ che in pratica è la presa di controllo da parte degli ebrei. L'esercitazione militare - che includeva il tiro dell'artiglieria a circa un chilometro dalle case della gente e, contrariamente all'esplicita promessa dell'esercito, il movimento di carri armati e artiglieria mobile nel villaggio di Jinba e ha danneggiato campi e distrutto strade. Questo è ciò che si intende per ‘imporre la legge e l'ordine’: ricordare ai palestinesi che le loro vite sono subordinate alle esigenze dell'esercito e all'espansione degli insediamenti. Nello stesso spirito, la mancanza di ‘governance’ si riferisce al fatto che le autorità israeliane non sono riuscite ad eliminare i villaggi di Masafer Yatta (Military Firing Zone 918), i cui residenti non sono stati ‘volontariamente’ sfollati e reinsediati a Yatta, nonostante i divieti draconiani di costruzione che sono stati loro imposti. Nella Valle del Giordano settentrionale, questa settimana le forze dell'esercito e dell'amministrazione civile hanno condotto un'altra operazione di ordine pubblico: hanno distrutto e sequestrato, per la seconda volta in tre mesi, le strutture rudimentali di una piccola comunità di pastori a Khirbet Humsa, che affitta terreni dai residenti di Tubas e Tamoun. I membri della comunità Humsa sono originari del villaggio di Samu'a, nel sud della Cisgiordania. La costruzione israeliana e le restrizioni di movimento hanno ridotto la loro area di pascolo e l'accesso all'acqua nel sud, inducendo le famiglie a spostarsi a nord con le loro greggi. L'amministrazione civile finge che la sua unica preoccupazione sia il benessere delle famiglie quando ordina loro di spostarsi di circa 15 chilometri verso ovest a causa del pericolo di rimanere nella Zona di Fuoco Militare 903. La verità è che la loro presenza ostacola l'espansione degli insediamenti vicini e gli allevamenti di ovini e bovini stabiliti illegalmente nella zona negli ultimi anni. Le elezioni imminenti e la pandemia non hanno disturbato la routine dei coloni. La destra pro-annessione è riuscita a rimuovere l'occupazione dalla discussione politica, ma i suoi crimini continuano. I partiti di sinistra devono riportare l'occupazione nell'agenda pubblica e politica. Altrimenti, né loro né lo stato avranno l'agognata resurrezione”. Riportare l’occupazione nell’agenda politica. Se in Israele esistesse ancora una sinistra... (...) Lo “Stato di Giudea e Samaria” è armato e si difende e spesso si fa giustizia da sé contro i “terroristi palestinesi” che, in questa visione manichea, coincidono con l’intera popolazione della Cisgiordania. Molti attacchi contro i palestinesi sono stati registrati nelle aree di Ramallah e Nablus (Cisgiordania occupata). (...) “Un rapporto pubblicato da Human Rights – scrive Michela Perathoner inviata di Unimondo in Palestina- dimostra con chiarezza la discriminazione perpetrata da Israele nei confronti della popolazione palestinese. ‘I bambini palestinesi che vivono in aree sotto controllo israeliano studiano a lume di candela, mentre vedono la luce elettrica attraverso le finestre dei colonii, dichiara a tale proposito Carroll Bogert, vice-direttore esecutivo per le relazioni esterne di Human Rights Watch. (...) ‘E’assurdo affermare che privare ragazzini palestinesi dell’accesso all’istruzione, all’acqua o all’elettricità abbia qualcosa a che fare con la sicurezza’, spiega ancora Bogert. Perché il problema, come sempre, è la sicurezza, e le motivazioni indicate dal Governo israeliano qualora si parli di discriminazioni o trattamenti differenziati tra coloni e palestinesi residenti in Cisgiordania, vi vengono direttamente o indirettamente collegate. (...) In particolare, 3 studenti su 4 hanno riferito che le loro scuole sono state attaccate, una percentuale che sale al 93% per i bambini e i ragazzi di Nablus. Tre bambini su 4, inoltre, hanno paura di incontrare militari o coloni mentre vanno a scuola e temono di essere insultati o minacciati con gas lacrimogeni o aggressioni fisiche. Uno studente su 4, ancora, non si sente al sicuro quando è a scuola e molti soffrono di ansia e stress che si manifestano attraverso sintomi fisici come tremori incontrollabili e svenimenti oppure perdita di autostima e paura. Quasi un terzo dei bambini ha poi raccontato di avere difficoltà a concentrarsi in classe a causa delle situazioni che si trovano ad affrontare quotidianamente e, tra questi, 8 su 10 hanno detto che sullo svolgimento delle loro attività in classe incide fortemente la paura. Alcuni studenti hanno iniziato a piangere e altri stavano soffocando quando i soldati hanno sparato i gas lacrimogeni. Non riuscivamo a respirare, anche a causa della paura e dell’ansia che provavamo. C'era un odore di gas e ci bruciavano gli occhi. A scuola non eravamo equipaggiati per affrontare una simile esperienza. È stato doloroso e ho avuto molta paura, è la testimonianza di Rima*, 13 anni, che ha ricordato l’attacco contro la sua scuola a Betlemme. "I soldati hanno attaccato la mia scuola tre o quattro volte l'anno scorso. Hanno gettato lacrimogeni e sparato munizioni vere. Alcuni insegnanti e studenti non riuscivano a respirare, è arrivata l'ambulanza e siamo andati tutti a casa", ha raccontato Farea*, 12 anni, di Hebron. Questa è la “normalità” nei Territori occupati. Una “normalità” che fa orrore. Raccontarla è un dovere. Cancellarla è un crimine. Anche mediatico. Umberto De Giovannangeli

[demadrugadahq]

LA MADRUGADA TE ENCONTRARÁ Y, SI TIENES SUERTE, SERÁ VIVO. Invitación firmada por Stella y Julian Favre ha llegado a tus manos susurrando promesa de níveo paraíso, no te toma más que un par de segundos deslizando tus dígitos por aquella carta para dejar correr el entusiasmo que enfrasca aquella aventura, ¿Qué dices LUX DE FLEURIAU? ¿Aceptas dejarte envolver por la madrugada?

LIA, bienvenide a demadrugada, esperamos que disfrutes de la experiencia del grupal. A partir de este momento cuentas con 24 horas para enviarnos la cuenta de tu personaje, de necesitar más tiempo no dudes en enviarnos un mensaje.

FORMULARIO DE AUDICIÓN

𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐨𝐨𝐜.

i.                   seudónimo:  lia.

ii.                  zona horaria: gmt-4.

iii.                triggers: body shaming, desordenes alimenticios, racismo.

iv.                ¿leíste las reglas? REMOVIDO

v.                 tu disponibilidad para el rol: 8 de 10

vi.                ¿algo que quieras decirnos o advertirnos? soy muy intensa y me explayo mucho perdón …

𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐣𝐞.

i.                    completa el siguiente párrafo con información básica, no debe hacerse en letra mayúscula.

la víctima ha sido bautizada como lux de fleuriau, lleva hasta la fecha veintiún años respirando y ha sido un desafortunada elegida de la universidad lucerma por ser estudiante de danza. su acento delata sus raíces, es franco-suiza y nos llama la atención su parecido con sydney sweeney.

ii.                 datos biográficos y curiosidades:

𝐢.  salmos eran repetidos entre bufidos quejumbrosos, entumecidos en un sueño inevitable; fármacos terminan por nublar conocimientos, cánticos cesando a lo que medicos empiezan su labor de rescatar a criatura que parece clamar una pronta salida—— demasiado pronta. el procedimiento fue largo, más largo y doloroso de lo que cualquiera pudiese dramatizar, y al momento en el cual sonrisas poblaron rostros de cirujanos satisfechos con faena realizada, la madre permanece estática, sucumbiendo ante fragilidad que revela en juveniles facciones. “ su pequeña es un milagro; una luz. felicidades. ” pero madre no da la bienvenida a criatura entre brazos, permanece inmóvil, provocando que doctores se acerquen ligeramente para intentar comprender insólita respuesta; una pronunciación casi inaudible, palabrería que más tarde una de las enfermeras pudo reconocer como el versículo de la biblia oseas 13:16… “ samaria será considerada culpable, porque se rebeló contra su dios. caerán a espada; serán estrellados sus niños, y abiertos los vientres de sus mujeres encintas. ”

𝐢𝐢.  de pequeña se pasó imaginándose el rostro de su madre, escogiendo entre desconocidas que veía en la televisión para que una de ellas ocupase existencia momentáneamente. quizás esta, quizás esa otra. la idea de que podía topársela cuando sea, donde sea, como producto de la magnífica y mágica ironía que el destino confiere, le parecía fascinante. de alguna forma, le gustaba el misterio, le gustaba pretender que su madre andaba por ahí pensando en ella por igual, buscándola. más tarde, escabulléndose entre pertenencias de figura paterna encontraría en un polvoriento, recóndito escondrijo en el ático, una foto de su madre con unas zapatillas de ballet entre manos. no tuvo que buscar más y las mujeres en la televisión volvieron a sus fantasmales posturas. la reconoció de inmediato, guardó la foto en su libreta, de donde más tarde desaparecieron todos aquellos fútiles bocetos, abrasados por las llamas de la chimenea. era ella, su mamá, una bailarina, y eso era todo lo que sabía, todo lo que entonces prefería creer.

𝐢𝐢𝐢.  tales distracciones, colmadas de candor e intrascendencia, tan sólo son tiernas cuando se trata de una niña pequeña. no es que fuese su culpa, toda su vida se acostumbró a sucumbir ante aquellas distracciones que bien pudieron haberle salvado de un abominable aburrimiento en más de una ocasión. en un hogar donde la catequesis es considerada súmmum y versos biblicos decoran paredes, donde educación laica es casi inexistente, cualquier distracción es mejor que nada. no puede quejarse, no es como si algo le ha faltado alguna vez. sus abuelos, dueños de la mejor institución católica privada del municipio antes de su esperada jubilación, jamás han tenido problema en suplirle con bienes materiales. si acaso su abuelo no suele ser el ser más cariñoso de todos, su abuela sonríe al recordarle a su pequeña nieta ( la única ) el milagro que representa y como dios la trajo al mundo con un fin que está por descubrirse. su madrastra nunca ha sido totalmente desagradable y se preocupa por adornar y vestir, por pintar y dibujar, la mejor apariencia posible en existencia de hija postiza. es lo más cercano a una madre que ha tenido, así esté muy lejos de serlo. su padre, un hombre de fe, ahora dueño del colegio católico donde le habían sometido a estudiar, es amable y bondadoso de una forma bastante parental, casi como si de una fachada se tratase, como un cliché con lentes y un pañuelo perfectamente doblado en su bolsillo delantero; una caricatura de padre, ¿tiene eso sentido? recuerda haber escuchado una conversación una vez entre las señoras del servicio, de que un hombre como él ha de estar intentando pagar por sus errores del pasado, que siempre da la impresión de intentar correr mas rápido ante pecados que todavía le persiguen. a todo esto, nadie nunca menciona a su madre, y con el paso del tiempo, ella lo hace menos. su madre representa discordia, tensión y ante mención de progenitora, por un momento parece que a su abuela se le quitan las ganas de llamarle milagro una vez más. a veces, cuando rezan todos juntos los domingos por la tarde, presiente que mujer ocupa un espacio silente en oraciones.

𝐢𝐯.  con el pasar del tiempo, candidez desaparece entre la marea de embrollos y trivialidades juveniles que incrementan a la par de frustraciones. en un hogar donde las misas de los domingos no se pierden por nada en el mundo, donde se reza más de tres veces al día, donde cualquier señal de inmoralidad ha de ser fuertemente penalizada, cualquier distracción es mejor que nada. pero esta vez sí que se queja, en silencio, pero lo hace. permanece prisionera de cuatro paredes, batallando contra barreras insólitas que el estricto régimen religioso que se desenvuelve en hogar supone para primogenita. pintalabios, revistas, zapatillas de ballet, sueños, rodillas, hombros… rastros de feminidad son escondidos, curiosidades reprimidas e imagen cuidadosamente curada como si de una muñeca de porcelana se tratase; de pronto empieza a crecer, todo achicándose alrededor de ella. en un mundo donde debe estar en su casa antes de que el sol se acueste, de pronto se vuelve imparable; excusándose a sí misma con mentiritas piadosas y silencios bien pensados, con sonrisas adecuadas e intuición desarrollada en su máxima expresión, finalmente lux encuentra una escapatoria momentánea, otro tipo de distracciones que si acaso minúsculas, sacian sed de libertinaje.

𝐯.  en pleno despertar adolescente, la propuesta de irse a estudiar a la universidad de prestigio que en perfección se alinea con los valores familiares ( de los cuales a duras penas se ha esforzado de escapar ) le asustó en demasía, tanto que inconcebible le pareció la posibilidad de imaginarse fuera de plano que apenas empezaba a entender cómo controlar. fue entonces, en ese momento, que se percató de que ese podría ser su verdadero escape, quizás el único; otro mundo desconocido lejos de aquel que ya está hastiada de conocer una y otra vez, lejos de las reglas y el control constante. entonces aceptó, y así, aceptó también la propuesta de su padre de irse únicamente bajo la condición de estudiar ciencias de la educación. aunque, claro, esto último no lo haría. con ayuda de su abuela, empacó en secreto un nuevo par de zapatos de carácter y otro par de zapatillas de ballet y partió a nuevo destino. sería bailarina, eso es todo lo que sabe, todo lo que prefiere creer…

iii.                datos psicológicos:

encantadora, mordaz, inquieta, inaccesible; una criatura incomprensible para aquellos que observaban desde las afueras de íntimo círculo social. tiene una facilidad para reír con divinidad, llorar casi perfectamente ( como si optase por liberar una precisa cantidad de lágrimas, como si controlase emociones a su voluntad ). en plena ambigüedad; así como puede ser enigmática y observadora, también es capaz de desatar con facilidad un lado acogedor y ameno. tiende a describirse a sí misma como intuitiva, segura e independiente mas a veces se encuentra batallando con el mundo real, sufriendo las consecuencias de propia inadvertencia a través de impulsividad y desconfianza.

iv.                motivo del viaje:   …

v.                 de no ser ningún skeleton, por favor detallar en breves líneas su relación con alguno de los mellizos favre:

rechazó insinuaciones continuas de parte de julian, manteniéndolo interesado en base a ilusiones que fémina bien sabía jamás cumpliría; vaivén constante empieza a herir ego masculino, pero también incita a juego, uno del cual rubia poco a poco se va aburriendo cada vez más.

[waritawrites]

Tales from the Hood: Rhodie (black elitists) or Duke Metger (Biden) - Who was the Bigger Threat to Black People?

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2021/05/05/tales-from-the-hood-rhodie-black-elitists-or-duke-metger-biden-who-was-the-bigger-threat-to-black-people/

#Prolife #LABlackAdvocatesforLife #LouisianaBlackAdvocatesforLife #BlackGenocide #AbortionIsEugenics #PlannedParenthoodIsElitist #Elitism

#ElitismIsHomicidal #LouisianaRightToLife #PlannedParenthoodPredators #PlannedParenthoodOwesReparations #Reparations

In Rusty Condieff's 1995 horror movie Tales from the Hood, there is a story called KKK Comeuppance which starred Corbin Bersen as senator and former KKK member Duke Metger and Roger Guenver Smith as his Public Relations consultant Rhodie (a black elitist) who are working to get Duke elected as governor. Duke faces great opposition because of his past membership with the Ku Klux Klan and AND his choice of the location of his campaign headquarters - his grandfather's old plantation. His grandfather murdered his slaves were upon finding out slavery in the south had been legally ended. There is an old legend that says that a former slave woman used witchcraft to capture their souls and place them in the bodies of dolls. The dolls would periodically come to life and their leader was the woman's husband who had been killed. A mural of the woman and her dolls was located Duke's office.

Alone, Duke was an unlikeable, arrogant, person. Yet, with the help of Rhodie, his appeal grew which made him a serious contender in the governor's race. When looking at today's political scene, one would easily say that Trump was like Duke Metger - when looking from a superficial perspective. A SUPERFICIAL PERSPECTIVE. He wasn't the most tactful. He was blunt. Some, DEFINITELY NOT ALL, of Trump's were white supremacists (some were also white "liberals" pretending to be stereotypical white conservative Trump supporters) and those who weren't white were anti-black, some of which were black. Yes, there are anti-black black people. One such character in Tales from The Hood was Rhodie. Rhodie seemed to represent a stereotypical black republican. He seems like the type of anti-black, self-hating black person who would pretend to "help" the black people improve their community by getting rid of as many Black people as possible using:

- Forget GOD and uphold multicultural, pagan ideals instead

- Abortion

- Euthanasia (gotta maintain that quality of life)

- Normalization of promiscuity

- Normalization of destructive alternative lifestyles

- The stigmatizing of traditional marriage and family

-The normalization of addiction and substance abuse, such as recreationally smoking heroin

Columbia professor: I do heroin regularly for ‘work-life balance’

https://nypost.com/2021/02/19/columbia-prof-i-snort-heroin-regularly-for-work-life-balance/

https://twitter.com/Joy_Villa/status/1363557914351403016?s=20

People who promote such self-destructive behaviors as normal or even inherently black are an enemy! They are an enemy of mankind, no matter how progressive that they think such behaviors are. Indeed, progressivism, like evolution, is an oxymoron because you don't gain anything biologically nor socially. Things regress to its most basic form. Though, a progressive such as a eugenicist might would tell you, "progressive for the purpose of efficiency - less means more." More for them, more resources for them in their quest to reign supreme in the survival of the fittest, or their horrible misinterpretation of term. Yet, we don't see the promotion of such self-destructive behavior coming from Black Republicans, Conservatives, and Independents. We see the encouragement of black self-destruction coming from Black Democrats

Most Democrat Legislators Champion Margaret Sanger’s Racist Genocide Mission – Are They Counter-representing You?

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2019/05/16/most-democrat-legislators-champion-margaret-sangers-racist-genocide-mission-are-they-counter-representing-you/

Liberals, and some (especially paid) Social Justice activists as well as your various dose-of-distraction-from-news-and-entertainment-attractions.

Black Agents of White Supremacy in the Media endorse racist Joe Biden

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2020/03/04/black-agents-of-white-supremacy-in-the-media-endorse-racist-joe-biden/

Support of the Super Predators: White Supremacists in Liberal Disguise and the Mainstream Media that promotes them

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2020/02/17/support-of-the-super-predators-white-supremacists-in-liberal-disguise-and-the-mainstream-media-that-promotes-them/

Joe Biden & his supporters on Joe's racist association with the klansmen sound a lot like Duke Metger & Rhodie in Tales from the

Hood @ 0:56:22 mins

"We all have a past, now don't we?"

"We all, have a past. Its a better man who can learn from his failures. I know that I have learned from mine and I'm better for it."

Duke Metger & Rhodie in Tales from the Hood, https://youtu.be/5vxHfr3DLKg

Margaret Sanger also used black elitists to carry out her plan for eugenics by way of birth control.

Planned Parenthood has stalked and misinformed Black people, particularly Black people experiencing poverty as well as uneducated Black people about the personhood of an unborn child. However, Black Democrats, Liberals, and some (especially paid) Social Justice activists such as Black Lives Matter:

BLM to Biden & Harris: We want something for our vote

https://www.theblaze.com/news/black-lives-matter-leader-to-biden-and-harris-we-want-something-for-our-vote

- BLM got in the way with their grifting and clout-seeking.

Michael Brown’s father, Ferguson activists demand $20M from BLM

By Kenneth Garger

https://nypost.com/2021/03/03/michael-browns-father-ferguson-activists-demand-20m-from-blm/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

Where is the $90 million dollars collected by BLM? Michael Brown’s father, Ferguson activists demand $20M from BLM

https://twitter.com/TheFabulousRee/status/1371965130578268160?s=20

Shaun King attempted to discredit Samaria Rice when she spoke against the political exploitation of racism and police brutality done by pseudo-social activists, celebrities, and politicians. Shaun King stated that she was not thinking the way that liberal white "woke" supremacy wants her to think. She isn't sticking with their destructive narrative and agenda for Black people. They're redlining us into feeling that we can't be self-reliant! Meanwhile, Closet Capitalist Anarchists ease into the neighbohoods they help to destroy to start businesses, buy real estate for commercial and residential purposes;etc. #UnfollowShaunKing

"I read Shaun King’s piece about Samaria Rice’s critical social media comments and this is some of the most patronizing ugly sh-t I’ve ever seen"

https://twitter.com/ztsamudzi/status/1371882450763329536?s=20

BLM destroyed a beautiful,civilized movement as well as communities. It could have been a beautiful,civilized movement yet they ruined it w/buffoonery such as twerking for Martin Luther King, Jr Day and WAP stupidity

Joe Biden's non-response reminds me of this scene from Tales from The Hood:

Duke Metger in Tales from the Hood, "No Reparations!" https://youtu.be/7vjwA1IkIRk

and Black ministers

Apostate False Preachers for Feticide and Infanticide: Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2020/03/11/apostate-false-preachers-for-feticide-and-infanticide-jesse-jackson-and-al-sharpton/

have been its main proponents and propagandists since the early 1900's when it was known as the American Birth Control League. To appeal to Black people, Sanger said:

The Use of Ministers for The Negro Project in a 1939 letter to Dr. C.J. Gamble:

"The ministers work is also important and he should be trained, perhaps by the Federation as to our ideals and the goal that we hope to reach. We do not want word to go out that we want to exterminate the Negro population and the minister is the man who can straighten out that idea if it ever occurs to any of their more rebellious members."

In Birth Control and the Negro, Sanger talked about the value of the influence of black ministers:

“The project would hire three or four ‘colored Ministers, preferably with social-service backgrounds, and with engaging personalities’ to travel throughout the South and propagandize for birth control, since ‘the most successful educational approach to the Negro is through religious appeal” (as cited in Gordon, 2007, p. 235).

Dr. Albert Lasker, Sanger (1939) stated, "If we could get the Negro Universities and the Negro medical groups behind this project it will go over really big I think, especially if there is a little money to give to those for time spent and for supplies in their clinics."(para. 3)

One of her biggest propagandists was W.E.B. DuBois (See: Negroes and Birth Control, https://libex.smith.edu/omeka/files/original/16e5b6a56c2c4aedb3274e7124f3006e.jpg)

W.E.B. DuBois (1939) stated:

“Among the more intelligent class, was a postponement of marriage, which greatly decreased the number of children. Today, among this class of Negroes few men marry before thirty, and numbers of them after forty. The marriage of women of this class has similarly been postponed.

In addition to this, the low incomes which Negroes receive make bachelorhood and spinsterhood widespread, with the naturally resultant lowering, in some cases, of sex standards. On the other hand, the mass of ignorant Negroes still breed carelessly and disastrously, so that the increase among Negroes, even more than whites, is from that part of the population least intelligent and fit, and least able to rear their children properly.” (para. 4 and para.5).

Joe Biden has more in common with Duke over the course of his career than does Trump. Here are the facts listed in my article, Joe Biden has built his career by FIGHTING AGAINST EQUITY and EQUALITY, https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2021/01/22/joe-biden-has-built-his-career-by-fighting-against-equity-and-equality/ :

"Joe used the drug epidemic to target Blacks and poor people to serve longer sentences for trafficking by promoting proganda that crack is more lethal than cocaine. Blacks and poor people could afford crack for distribution and sell because it was less expensive than cocaine which Biden gave lesser sentencing. This occurred during the time the number privatized prisons began to increase. These were for-profit prisons. This first company to take over a prison was Core Civic in 1984. Civic Core took over a Shelby County, Tennessee prison.

Vox.com's German Lopez https://www.vox.com/2015/8/26/9208983/joe-biden-black-lives-matter shares Jamelle Bouie's list at Slate.com https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2015/08/joe-biden-presidential-run-why-its-a-bad-idea.html:

"Comprehensive Control Act: This 1984 law, spearheaded by Biden and Sen. Strom Thurmond (R-SC), expanded drug trafficking penalties and federal "civil asset forfeiture," which allows police to seize and absorb someone's property — whether cash, cars, guns, or something else — without proving the person is guilty of a crime. Under the federal Equitable Sharing program, local and state police get up to 80 percent of the value of what they seize as funds for their departments, which critics say creates a for-profit incentive to take people's stuff.

Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986: This law, sponsored and partly written by Biden, ratcheted up penalties for drug crimes. It also created a big sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine — even though both drugs are pharmacologically similar, the law made it so someone would need to possess 100 times the amount of powder cocaine to be eligible for the same mandatory minimum sentence for crack. Since crack is more commonly used by black Americans, this sentencing disparity helped fuel the disproportionate rates of imprisonment among black communities.

Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988: This law, co-sponsored by Biden, strengthened prison sentences for drug possession, enhanced penalties for transporting drugs, and established the Office of National Drug Control Policy, which coordinates and leads federal anti-drug efforts.

Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act: This 1994 law, partly written by Biden and signed by President Bill Clinton, imposed tougher sentences (including some mandatory minimums) and increased funding for prisons, fostering the explosive growth of the US prison population from the 1990s through the 2000s — a trend that's only begun to reverse in the past few years. Since black Americans are disproportionately likely to be incarcerated, the law helped contribute to the mass incarceration of black Americans in particular. But the law also included all sorts of other measures, including the Violence Against Women Act that helped crack down on domestic violence and rape, a 10-year ban on assault weapons, funding for firearm background checks, and grant programs for local and state police.

The RAVE Act: This 2003 law built on the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 to impose civil penalties on businesses that knowingly lease, rent, use, or profit from a space where illicit drugs are being stored, manufactured, distributed, or used. The idea was to go after raves in which drugs are widely used. But the law has been widely criticized for making rave organizers so paranoid about anti-drug crackdowns that they stopped doing anything that would implicate them in drug use, including providing medical or educational services for drug users."

Interesting that Joe and Strom Thurmond partnered to write the 1984 Comprehensive Control Act during the same time period that Core Civic took over a facility in Tennessee. The increase in the number of privatized coincided with Biden's focus on creating crime bill's. To sell his 1994 Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act #1994CrimeBill, Biden's rhetoric was "Lock the S.O.B.'s Up" to further vilify the poor and other disenfranchised people to justify mass incarceration.

-'Lock the S.O.B.s Up’: Joe Biden and the Era of Mass Incarceration

He now plays down his role overhauling crime laws with segregationist senators in the ’80s and ’90s. That portrayal today is at odds with his actions and rhetoric back then.

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/25/us/joe-biden-crime-laws.html#click=https://t.co/7ck1J9966W

His magnum opus was his 1993 Predators Beyond the Pale Speech

-Joe Biden Warns Of "Predators On Our Streets" Who Were "Beyond The Pale" In 1993 Crime Speech

https://youtu.be/7oDHSt-CKtc

- Joe Biden wrote the Clinton approved Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act:

Bill Clinton's crime bill destroyed lives, and there's no point denying it

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/apr/15/bill-clinton-crime-bill-hillary-black-lives-thomas-frank "

In addition to creating legislation that racially profiles minorities into a system of for-profit mass incarceration, he has also been a loyal supporter of planned parenthood.

Current Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson says:

"Margaret Sanger’s beliefs caused irreparable damage to the lives and health of generations of Black people, Latino people, Indigenous people, immigrants, people with disabilities, people with low incomes, and many others." Read more from

@alexismcgill

: https://p.ppfa.org/3x3N29f

https://twitter.com/PPFA/status/1383827872628953094?s=20

I’m the Head of Planned Parenthood. We’re Done Making Excuses for Our Founder

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/17/opinion/planned-parenthood-margaret-sanger.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=tweet&utm_campaign=healthtwitter&utm_content=nyt2-april21

Despite McGill-Johnson's statement of the racist activities of planned parenthood as well as Kamala Harris' expression of fear of Joe Biden's praise of the known white supremacists of whom he has shown reverence:

What bothered Kamala about Joe? Interview with Kamala Harris on the campaign trail - Face the Nation

11:35 mins: “Praising and coddling individuals who made it their life work and built their reputation off of segregation of the races in the United States........I would not be a member of the United States senate if those men he praised had their way."

What bothered Kamala about Joe?

https://youtu.be/xMqp7A-O0HE?t=695

Let's talk about Joe Biden - 10:53 mins

https://youtu.be/xMqp7A-O0HE?t=653

this year he has still allowed the government to give over 400 million dollars to continue to decimate the Black community.

Joe Biden Gives Abortion Industry $467.8 Billion, 19 Times More Tax Money Than Obama

https://www.lifenews.com/2021/04/29/joe-biden-gives-abortion-industry-467-8-billion-19-times-more-money-than-obama/

https://twitter.com/StevenErtelt/status/1388694739512348674?s=20

Black people make up 13% of the population and Black women only represent 6% of the total population yet account for 36.9% of the nation’s abortions whereas white women account for 36% of the nation’s abortions however white people are 76% of the nation’s population. (Jatlaoui TC, Boutot ME, Mandel MG, et al, 2015).

Jatlaoui TC, Boutot ME, Mandel MG, et al. Abortion Surveillance — United States, 2015. MMWR Surveill Summ 2018;67(No. SS-13):1–45. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.ss6713a1

Regarding the near extinction of the Black population in America due to abortion, Nyhiem Way El stated to reparations group American Descendants of Slaves,

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ados101/permalink/296772141208488/?sfnsn=mo,:

"- Based on the January 2018 estimate that there have been 60 million abortions in the United States since 1973,20 we can deduce that well over 18 million of them were performed on black babies.

- As of July 2017, the black population in the U.S. stood somewhere around 40 million, which means that abortion has reduced the size of the black community by more than 30%—and that doesn't include the children and grandchildren that would have been born to those aborted more than a generation ago.'

Abort73.(n.d.). Abortion and Race. Retrieved from https://abort73.com/abortion/abortion_and_race/

Essentially, this is a 50% halt in population growth if you look at the children and grandchildren who would've been born since 1973 of the aborted. (Way El, 2019)

**As of July 2017, the black population in the U.S. stood somewhere around 40 million, meaning abortion has reduced the size of the black community over 30% and doesn't including potential children and grandchildren born to those aborted a generation ago

https://abort73.com/abortion/abortion_and_race/"

Planned Parenthood owes reparations to Black people, Hispanics, those living in poverty, women, AND fathers who wanted their children that were aborted.

GOD hates the Oppression of the Disenfranchised: Proverbs 30:14 & Jeremiah 34:8 - 22

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2021/04/17/god-hates-the-oppression-of-the-disenfranchised-proverbs-3014-jeremiah-348-22/

Proverbs 30:14

“There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.”

Hypocrisy of Joe Biden: A Legacy of Self-Entitlement and Oppression against the Disenfranchised

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2020/01/08/hypocrisy-of-joe-biden-a-legacy-of-self-entitlement-and-oppression-against-the-disenfranchised/

Biden's overall opinion of Black people continues to be low,especially of those who would vote for him. In August 2020, Biden stated at a meeting with Latino voters:

"By the way, what you all know, but most people don’t, unlike the African American community, with notable exceptions, the Latino community is an incredibly diverse community with incredibly different attitudes about different things.”

—#JoeBiden 8/6/2020 https://youtu.be/f4lXYR0su-8

I'm glad that I'm a notable exception - I didn't vote for him.

I will never support the removal of GOD being THE GUIDE of America, abortion

Scriptures Against Abortion and Child Abuse

https://followerofthewayforever.wordpress.com/2020/03/12/scriptures-against-abortion-and-child-abuse/

HURTING CHILDREN BRINGS ON THE WRATH OF GOD

Matthew 18:5-6,10

5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea

10 Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven

the destruction of traditional marriage and family, the destruction of traditional gender roles,eugenics, population control,euthanasia, and government and corporate hoarding rationing for totalitarian purposes disguised as environmentalism and sustainability.

Reference

Way El, N.(2019,May 16).Predatory Abortion Industry causes 50% halt in black population growth

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ados101/permalink/296772141208488/?sfnsn=mo

Du Bois, W.E.B.(1939, April). Negroes and Birth Control. Smith

https://libex.smith.edu/omeka/files/original/16e5b6a56c2c4aedb3274e7124f3006e.jpg

Sanger,M.(1939).Letter from Margaret Sanger to Dr. C.J. Gamble December 10,1939. Smith Libraries Exhibit, Accessed January 10, 2019, Retrieved from https://libex.smith.edu/omeka/files/original/d6358bc3053c93183295bf2df1c0c931.pdf

Gordon,L.(2007). Birth Control and the Negro. In The Moral Property of Women, p.235. Urbana; Chicago: University of Illiniois Press.

Sanger,M.(1939).Letter from Margaret Sanger to Dr. Albert Lasker November 12,1939. Smith Libraries Exhibit, Accessed January 11, 2019, Retrieved from https://libex.smith.edu/omeka/files/original/087da25e33426c0e81b01eebcdcc079d.jpg

[jgmail]

¿ACASO ISRAEL Y PALESTINA ESTÁN A LAS PUERTAS DE OTRO CONFLICTO?

Por Leonid Savin

Traducción de Juan Gabriel Caro Rivera

 Durante diciembre del 2020 se produjeron un aumento de las tensiones nacionales en la zona de Cisjordania, incluidas varias manifestaciones y ataques de grupos israelíes contra hogares palestinos (1).

 Los informes indican que diciembre fue el mes más intenso de ataques realizados por nacionalistas israelíes en contra de palestinos en los últimos tres años, es decir, algo que no pasaba desde principios del 2017 (2). Las agencias de seguridad israelíes han registrado un total de 41 casos de actos cometidos por extremistas israelíes que claman venganza y usan la violencia en contra de los palestinos (3). También se ha informado de un total de 25 ataques violentos.

 Mientras tanto, el 29 de diciembre, Hamas llevó a cabo ejercicios militares en la Franja de Gaza. Según un comunicado emitido por esa organización, los ejercicios tenían un carácter defensivo, pero también estaban centrados en la futura liberación de Palestina. Un total de once organizaciones participaron en tales ejercicios, siendo todas ellas consideradas organizaciones terroristas por el Estado de Israel.

 Es obvio que los ejercicios se llevaron a cabo como parte de un despliegue de fuerzas debido a las crecientes tensiones entre Estados Unidos e Irán. Debido a que existían ciertos indicios de un posible de un ataque militar contra Irán (todo esto sucedió por la presencia de un submarino israelí y un grupo de ataque de portaaviones estadounidense que estaban operando cerca de Irán), Hamas y la Jihad Islámica decidieron mostrarle a Israel lo que podía enfrentar en caso de que se produjera tal ataque. Dadas las capacidades de combate que posee Hezbollah en el Líbano (la frontera norte de Israel), tales ejercicios no podían haber pasado desapercibida para los servicios de inteligencia israelíes y estadounidenses.

Otra de las fuentes de tensión que se está haciendo cada vez más evidente son los acuerdos laborales que han firmado tanto Israel como Palestina. Según la Administración Civil israelí, alrededor de 80.000 palestinos cruzan la frontera todos los días para trabajar en Israel. Otros 30.000 palestinos trabajan en Cisjordania, donde existen asentamientos israelíes; la mayoría de los palestinos trabaja en la zona industrial. No existe ninguna duda de que Israel depende de la mano de obra palestina.

 El 31 de diciembre del 2020, los trabajadores palestinos se declararon en huelga en la fábrica de Yamit (4). En respuesta a las demandas de la organización laboral Maan (que es israelí y no palestina), el propietario de la fábrica, Ofer Talmi, declaró: “La Tierra de Israel pertenece al pueblo judío. Por lo tanto, no estoy dispuesto a contratar trabajadores palestinos que tengan alguna conexión con el Estado de Israel” (5).

 Sin embargo, las autoridades israelíes han adoptado una nueva decisión sobre la construcción de los nuevos asentamientos que van a ser instalados en el territorio palestino ocupado por Israel. El 11 de enero, el ministro de Defensa, Benny Gantz, aprobó la construcción de alrededor de 800 viviendas para israelíes en los asentamientos de Cisjordania (6).

 El primer ministro Benjamin Netanyahu anunció que continuaría con la construcción de varios asentamientos en Cisjordania. Tuiteó lo siguiente: "El primer ministro Benjamin Netanyahu ordena que empiecen a construirse aproximadamente 800 unidades residenciales en Judea y Samaria [Cisjordania], incluso en Tal Menashe, la comunidad donde vivía la difunta Esther Horgan".

 Se espera que el Comité Superior de Planificación de la Administración Civil llegue a aprobar los planes que se trazaron para la próxima semana. Los planes incluyen la construcción de 500 viviendas en asentamientos como Itamar, Beit El, Shavei Shomron, Oranit y Givat Ze'ev ubicados en la Ribera Occidental, los planes que se están trazando incluyen la construcción de 100 viviendas en asentamientos como Tal‑Menashe y la construcción de más de 200 nuevas unidades en Nofei Nehemia.

 Sin embargo, Benny Gantz también ha acordado la legalización de los asentamientos palestinos que se encuentren bajo el control militar y administrativo de Israel. Algunos analistas creen que esta decisión fue tomada para compensar de alguna manera a los palestinos por el hecho de que se estén apoderando de sus territorios. Por otro lado, el movimiento derechista y defensor de los asentamientos israelíes, Regavim, criticó ásperamente la decisión tomada por Gantz y culpó de la misma a Netanyahu.

 Los militantes palestinos afirman haber visto el lanzamiento de un cohete que fue disparado durante un ejercicio militar organizado por facciones militares israelíes en las afueras de la ciudad de Gaza el 29 de diciembre del 2020.

 “Si bien Netanyahu declara que se producirá la expansión de los asentamientos judíos con la construcción de 800 nuevas unidades de vivienda, al mismo tiempo esta tratando hacer que las Autoridades Palestinas aprueben varios planes para la construcción ilegal de los mismos por medio de una legalización de cientos de dunams. El significado de tales actos es terrible: los asentamientos [judío] deben convertirse en lugares pequeños y cercados por rejas, mientras que las Autoridades Palestinas se expande sobre el territorio de Israel y tienen el derecho de aprobar o no esos planes”, tuiteó Regavim.

 No hay duda de que la expansión de los asentamientos israelíes terminará por ser interpretada por los palestinos como un acto de agresión, independientemente de que las Autoridades Palestinas terminen por aprobar los acuerdos que se están proponiendo.

 Todas estas acciones apuntan a una tendencia que podría conducir a un conflicto muy grave entre los palestinos e Israel. También debe tenerse en cuenta que, en el período previo a las elecciones al parlamento israelí (el Knesset) previstas para el 25 de marzo de este año, todos los partidos políticos de Israel utilizarán la carta palestina de una forma u otra, y la derecha israelí recurrirá a una fuerte retórica anti-palestina.

 También se están desarrollando en Palestina una serie de negociaciones que intentan reconciliar a los movimientos de Fatah y Hamas, y que tienen la intención de conseguir la unidad del pueblo palestino (7). Este proceso cuenta con el apoyo de varios países del Norte de África y Oriente Medio.

Vale la pena tener en cuenta que el Estado de Israel ahora está incluido en el área de seguridad en la cual opera el Comando Central de los Estados Unidos. Anteriormente la seguridad de Israel estaba bajo el amparo del Comando Europeo, pero Donald Trump consideró necesario cambiar esta base de operaciones (8). El Comando Central se encarga de las operaciones destinadas al Oriente Medio, Egipto y Asia Central.

 Los expertos en asuntos militares de los Estados Unidos creen que tal medida es completamente lógica, ya que Israel se encuentra geográficamente en el Medio Oriente. Tal reorganización ayudará a que se mejoren las actividades logísticas destinadas a preparar una intervención rápida en casos de conflictos, especialmente en un escenario donde el ejército estadounidense necesite realizar operaciones que involucren a Israel.

 Notas:

 1. https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2021/01/israel-west-bank-palestinians-ahuvia-sandak-settlers-attack.html

2. https://www.kan.org.il/Item/?itemId=97912

3. https://www.timesofisrael.com/25-settler-attacks-on-palestinians-reported-since-teen-died-in-police-chase/

4. https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2021/01/israel-palestinians-west-bank-nitzanei-shalom-oslo-accords.html

5. https://www.kan.org.il/item/?itemid=98049

6. https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2021/01/israel-palestinians-benny-gantz-benjamin-netanyahu-settlers.html

7. https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2021/01/palestine-reconciliation-efforts-hamas-fatah-turkey-egypt.html

8. https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/trump-shakes-us-defense-structure-moves-israel-under-us-middle-east-command

 Fuente: https://orientalreview.org/2021/01/21/are-israel-and-palestine-headed-towards-yet-another-conflict/

[the-single-element]

Good morning.

At last, with Pentecost only two weeks away, our readings this morning begin to turn to discussions of the Holy Spirit.

I intend to talk more about the Holy Spirit - who I think is the most often forgotten person of the Trinity - more in the coming weeks. But for now, I’m thinking about the... earliest impression of them that we have.

And that impression is this: people in the early Church, “filled with the Spirit”, acted on the message they had received. And as they acted, wonders took place, because the Spirit was in those actions.

Today we hear about those actions in a few different contexts.

We hear, once again, about the early walking of the Way. We visit Samaria again - where they also clung to the God of Abraham, but in a way that set them at odds with the Jews. And in that visit, we see echoes of Jesus’s own ministry there - the message intertwined with works, and with wonders, and framed by full acceptance of these people who, half a decade earlier, might have been seen as enemies.

We hear also, from the correspondent Peter (who may or may not have been Simon Peter, but seemed comfortable writing in his name), writing to small Christian communities fearful of local persecution. And he also reminds them that the good news must be paired with goodness and gentleness, to avoid bringing shame upon the message they preach.

And finally, we hear from Jesus - in another deeply layered excerpt from John - where he promises the Spirit to those who maintain their love for God and their adherence to the commandments.

In other words, all three of these accounts come to the same point: the message and the ministry and the miracles are parts of the same thing.

On some level, this should be obvious, right? They’re all part of the faith as we understand it, and “nobody can serve two masters at once”.

But I think it bears repeating, and remembering, both as a source of hope - if it’s all one thing, then there are many ways to get onto the Way - and as a cautionary tale not to end up in blind men and the elephant territory, touching its leg and saying “oh, an elephant is a kind of tree”, or touching its trunk and saying “oh, an elephant is a kind of snake”. If it’s all one thing, then the truth of what Jesus has passed on to us, and what the Holy Spirit is keeping burning in us even now, is something deeper than any single facet we can see. And to truly understand it, we need a hollistic approach - to see and know it as a whole, just like Jesus promises us today that we will one day see God as a whole, who is as intertwined with us as with himself.

Best wishes to you and yours.

[laresearchette]

Friday, July 10, 2020 Canadian TV Listings (Times Eastern)

WHERE CAN I FIND THOSE PREMIERES?: GREATNESS CODE (Apple +) GREYHOUND (Apple +) LITTLE VOICE (Apple +)

WHAT IS NOT PREMIERING IN CANADA TONIGHT RADIO DISNEY PRESENTS ARDYS SUMMER PLAYLIST (Premiering on July 18 on Disney Channel Canada at 7:00pm) DISNEY CHANNEL SUMMER SING-ALONG (TBD - Disney Channel Canada) OBSESSION: STALKED BY MY LOVER (TBD - Lifetime Canada) PALM SPRINGS (TBD)

NEW TO AMAZON PRIME/CRAVE/NETFLIX CANADA/CBC GEM:

AMAZON PRIME BREATHE: INTO THE SHADOWS

CBC GEM TAKEN (Documentary - Season 1, 3-4):  A true crime documentary series focusing on solving the mysteries behind Canada’s missing and murdered women.

CRAVE TV HARRIET THE ADDAMS FAMILY VIVARIUM AWKWAFINA IS NORA FROM QUEENS CAMP LAKEBOTTOM AS GOOD AS IT GETS BATMAN (1989) BATMAN AND ROBIN BATMAN FOREVER BATMAN RETURNS CLOSER DIVINE SECRETS OF THE YA YA SISTERS HER INTRIGO: DEAR AGNES INTRIGO DEATH OF AN AUTHOR INTRIGO SAMARIA

NETFLIX CANADA THE CLAUDIA KISHI CLUB     DATING AROUND: BRAZIL DOWN TO EARTH WITH ZAC EFRON THE EPIC TALES OF CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS IN SPACE HELLO NINJA (Season 3) O CRUSH PERFEITO (DATING AROUND: BRAZIL) THE OLD GUARD THE TWELVE

KOREAN BASEBALL (TSN3) 5:25am:  NC Dinos vs. LG Twins

JUNIOR BAKING SHOW (CBC) 8:00pm: Bakers must create a "biscuit picture of your best day ever."

WATTS ON THE GRILL (CTV Life) 8:00pm: Spencer Watts butters up with a menu featuring some of his favorite recipes.

BANDIT PATROL (Nat Geo Canada) 8:00pm (SEASON PREMIERE): Caregivers in Kentucky rescue, rehabilitate and release injured and orphaned wild animals.

MLS SOCCER (TSN/TSN4) 9:00pm: Group Stage: San Jose Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders FC

MISTER WINNER (BBC Canada) 9:00pm: Jemma is away on a business trip, and Leslie's off to a Doctor Who convention.

SUPERMAN: RED SON (Teletoon) 9:00pm: An alternate take on Superman portrays him as a Soviet hero after his rocket lands in the USSR.

TIL DEATH DO US PART (ID Canada) 9:00pm (SERIES PREMIERE):  Ashlee and Emmett Corrigan seem to have it all, including true love, five beautiful children and a growing business; however, an explosive encounter blows their lives apart in an instant, revealing their marriage was not what it seemed.

VIVARIUM (Crave) 9:00pm:  Hoping to find the perfect place to live, a couple travel to a suburban neighborhood in which all the houses look identical. But when they try to leave the labyrinth-like development, each road mysteriously takes them back to where they started.

FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER (BBC Canada) 9:30pm: Dad annoys everyone with his old ventriloquist dummy Lord Luck, while Jonny's recently dumped friend Ben comes for dinner in need of cheering up.

NICK CANNON PRESENTS: WILD 'N OUT (Much) 12:30am (SEASON PREMIERE:  Nick Cannon, Doja Cat and Big Daddy Kane battle it out in games: Turn Up For What, Talking Spit, Family Reunion and the Wildstyle battle. Doja Cat performs.

[yasbxxgie]

Traveling While Black: behind the eye-opening VR documentary on racism in America In the Emmy-nominated virtual reality project, viewers are given an immersive historical experience on the depressingly topical dangers of being black in America

The theatre has luxurious red velvet upholstered seats, grand ceilings and gilded trimmings. The rows of chairs stretch back into the ostensible blackness, with light beaming from the projector room. Ahead, archival footage of stylish black travelers pack the screen as an unseen narrator discusses the hardships of mid-20th-century black travel. Enabled by modern technology but trapped by racist social convention, their trips were eventually greatly eased by the publication of the Green Book, which listed safe spaces for black people to sleep, eat and replenish.

A car gradually appears next to the stage in black and white and a Green Book institution, Washington DC’s Ben’s Chili Bowl, comes into view. The seats have dissipated into a silent, empty U Street. For the next 20 minutes, the viewer will journey through the traumatic stories lent to Emmy-nominated virtual reality documentary Traveling While Black, which discusses the agony and trepidation of a people moving through a country that has not fully accepted them.

Traveling While Black is the first virtual reality project by Oscar-winning documentarian Roger Ross Williams, in collaboration with virtual reality studio Felix and Paul Studios. Glued together by the deep terror of racism, the documentary relies on a collection of interviews and poetic cinematic recreations to tell the harrowing tale of the danger that comes with having black skin.

Originally developed from a play as a multimedia project, someone suggested it might take better life as virtual reality project. Even so, its initial development was rocky. “It was tough figuring out the landscape because everything is so new,” Williams said. “At one point, this piece was going to be animated. At one point, we wrote a script and were talking to actors...”

But all parties agree that the story works best told through documentary film-making. “Documentaries are a lot more immediately mature as a medium of virtual reality, as a genre, as a format than fiction. We saw that this was too sensitive of a shoot to be experimenting with,” said Paul Raphael of Felix and Paul Studios. “We really wanted to do the material justice. It’s not the kind of subject you want to approach and not be respectful of.”

In the documentary, the aforementioned Ben’s Chili Bowl acts as a heartbeat of black DC, presenting itself as a central location for black travelers and locals alike. The virtual experience elucidates the concept and reality of an enduring safe space, too often stripped from black citizens.

Virginia Ali, the owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl, relays the history of the building as a black space, an old copy of the printed Green Book resting on the table of the booth before her. Ben’s Chili Bowl is the third iteration of the space, she says, originating as a silent movie theatre, then a pool hall, and finally, into the restaurant and institution where Barack Obama once visited for their famous half-smoke.

“From the very day that we opened, until the current time, it’s still a safe haven for people,” she asserts gently. To Williams, Ben’s was a natural choice to set a documentary. Ben’s encapsulates the combination of black ease and discomfort alike. “We wanted to basically take people back to the time when they needed the Green Book and they needed spaces like that. We wanted to connect that to the present because we still need spaces like that to show how much hasn’t changed.”

In the documentary, like in the lives of black Americans, there is nowhere to turn away from the horrors of racism. It besieges the viewer in its inescapable cage.

“If you’re not African American, you get to go into a space and be part of a conversation that you probably normally would not be privy to. If you are black, you get to delve deep into that inner trauma that we all carry with us in America as black people. I think that’s really powerful in the way that 2D storytelling can’t provide,” Williams said.

Raphael agreed, saying: “In virtual reality, you get to actually feel like they are there in front of you, much more strongly than by watching them on a flat two-dimensional rectangular screen. So that really changes how receptive you are to anything that is presented to you.”

But he admits its all-encompassing nature also poses a challenge. “[It] also means you have to recalibrate how you tell the story and what you present to the viewer. You could actually overwhelm a viewer very easily and have them shut down,” Raphael explains. “So it’s a very interesting and beautiful medium to work with. You need to be careful with it, but when you do it right, you can affect people in a way that I think is out of reach for cinema.”

The experience allows for the past and present to be presented in juxtaposition, merging to validate one eery conclusion: the problems of the past have not subsided. Former Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee activist Courtland Cox contends in the documentary: “The assumption is that, at some time, it stopped. And that’s not the case. It never stopped.”

The creator of the Green Book, Victor Green, once said that if the guide went out of print, black people would have reached the proverbial mountaintop of equal opportunity. Traveling While Black directly challenges that. “It’s different, but we are still in danger as black people when we step outside of our doors,” Williams said. “I could be walking down the street in my own neighborhood and be killed.”

Indeed, the fears aren’t exclusively relegated to the bus or the train or even distant travel, says Williams. The documentary highlights one such example: the tragic extrajudicial murder of 12-year-old Tamir Rice, told through his reticent mother, Samaria, who describes the day for the first time to an audience inside the restaurant.

She was at home, when, only a short distance from his Cleveland home, the officers shot her child within seconds of their arrival on scene. He was unarmed. The video of the entire police encounter only takes a few seconds, wherein the viewer is whisked back to the movie theatre, ushering a sense of disbelief and removal from the horror on screen. When the viewer returns to the booth where Samaria is still seated, several of the patrons and servers are in tears.

“I will never get that vision out of my head,” she laments, telling the somber yet captive audience how she was restrained from being with her child during his final moments by the same force that took his life. Fiddling with her napkin nervously, she continues: “I wasn’t finished raising him. I wasn’t finished nourishing him and America robbed me.” When asked what the American dream is to her, she replies: “A nightmare. Especially if you black.”

“I wonder, when does it end?” Sandra Butler-Truesdale, a fifth-generation DC resident, ponders aloud in the experience.

It’s the kind of question Williams wants the viewers to ask after the experience. He understands the material will not carry the same weight to different groups but does believe in its power to start an honest conversation.

“I think that if you are not a person of color and you watch this film, you walk away transformed. You walk away [and] you feel the sort of empathy and the pain really that black people carry with them in a country that hasn’t confronted the reality of racism, in fact, in a country where racism is on the rise … As a black person, I want you to walk away and want you to have open and honest conversations with people in your community about that trauma. It’s like therapy. We need to talk about it.”

[youtu.be]

Photographs:

Traveling While Black, a virtual reality documentary, discusses the agony and trepidation of a people moving through a country that has not fully accepted them

Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington DC acts as a safe space for black travelers and locals alike

[forbidden-sorcery]

Baal means 'lord' and was a title given to many local deities in Syria and Palestine. The supreme Baal was the great fertility god of the Canaanites, whose worship involved the sacrifice of children by burning. 'They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal'. Attempts have been made to connect him with the Celtic sun-gods Belenus and Belinus and with Beltane, the Celtic fire0festival on the first of May, but the connection seems to rest on a false etymology. The Lemegeton says that Baal appears with a toad's or cat's head and has a hoarse voice. He imparts wisdom and invisibility.         Children were similarly sacrified to Moloch, a Phoenician and Canaanite god, and to Adrammelech, whose cult was probably brought into Samaria by colonists from Syria. Chemosh was worshipped by the Moabites and Milcom by the Ammonites. Dagon was the great god of the Philistines, who placed the Ark of Jehovah in Dagon's temple when they had captured it from the Israelites. The force of the Ark destroyed Dagon and hewed his statue in pieces. Rimmon was a Syrian god. Naaman the leper bowed himself down in the temple of Rimmon at Damascus.         Another devil who was originally a Canaanite god, Baalberith, 'lord of the covenant'—a god who presided over agreements, in fact—was among the many devils, including Beelzebub, Astaroth and Asmodeus, who took possession of Sister Madeleine de Demandolx of the Ursuline convent at Aix-en-Provence in the early seventeenth century. Under their influence, she saw visions, danced and sang love-songs, writhed in indecent postures and told blood-chilling tales of sodomy and the cannibal eating of children at witch revels she had attended. It was determined that her confessor, Father Gaufridi, had seduced and bewitched her. After torture, he was strangled and burn at Aix in 1611.

Richard Cavendish - The Black Arts : A Concise History of Witchcraft, Demonology, Astrology, and Other Mystical Practices Throughout the Ages

[robertmarch82]

They created a “Palestinian people” as a tactical instrument to have the right to claim land in Israel. It was Nasser, president of Egypt, who brought the Palestinian people on the political agenda first. To strengthen their arguments, they settled Arabs by the millions until today.

Ben Fladder, studied German Language and Literature & IT System at Free University of Berlin (2010)

To explain why Israel is such a big thing on Quora (at least for me), I want to tell you some of the earlier history of the State of Israel. This short part of history is enough to make Israel a big thing for me, I don’t need to go into detail about the almost 1600 years, that Jews lived there as indigenous people from 1500 BC to 70 AD (and until today).

I do not deny, that Israel has committed war-crimes, just as the Arabs have. I am not an Israeli, nor am I Jewish, so I do not have any personal connection to Israel that would make me feel I must justify anything. Just the facts are enough in my opinion.

Before the first Zionistic settlements started in the 1870s, there were roughly around 255.000 Arabic people in the rural areas and around 24.000 Jews (the numbers vary, but that’s the average) living under Osman rule. The land was totally devastated. Agriculture and livestock took place on a minimal level, just barely enough for the self – sustaining of the inhabitants. Reports from 1882 - 1913 talk about “completely sown land, with dirty dilapidated houses built of loam, catastrophic hygienic circumstances”, the little agriculture done with small wooden plows. You find these descriptions for practically all the land. People were shocked when they came there and compared the status quo with what they had imagined.

Felix Bovet wrote about his visit of the area in 1858: „The ... Turkish [Osmans] ... turned it into a wasteland ... The Arabs themselves, who are its inhabitants ... have created nothing here.“ Quote from: Felix Bovet in: "Egypt, Palestine and Phoenicia: A Visit to Sacred Lands" (Can be found in /Scheel/)

The reasons lay in a chaotic, inhuman politic and the traditional lifestyle of the inhabitants. An example is the “Musha-land”, one of six categories of land under ottoman rule. Musha-land is supposed to have been the biggest obstacle against improvement for the fellahin/fell. In addition, wells and fields were further destroyed through steady fights between the Arabic residents themselves and the steady attacks and extortions from their neighbours, the Bedouin. The population was steadily declining.

Alif I. Tannous, a Palestinian intellectual wrote in October 1935: “Until today the fellahin/fell are the object of oppression, disregarding and bad treatment by their own people and the old political regime. The feudal system extincts their life, the effendi-class looks down on them and the old Turkish regime was too corrupt to deal with this vital problem.“

Because of this always declining population, lease declined as well and so the leaders constantly let non-Arabic and Arabic workers into the country. According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica of 1911 not less than 50 languages were spoken in what today is Israel.

With the new workers/peasants it went the same way as described above: They fell into poverty; the wars went on and the owners didn’t gain enough income from their land …

So, selling it to immigrating Jews was a jackpot for many of the owners. As said most of the land belonged to Arab families in the cities like the Sursock family in Beirut. They for example sold 240 square kilometres between Haifa and Beisan for over 800.000 British pounds to (among others) the Jewish National Fund. That‘s only one family. There were so many, who got rich by selling land, they had no use for because it was dried out and devastated. The money from these land sales often became the basis for their political power today. They also sold swamp land to those Jews, who had no experience with farming (swamp land was almost impossible to cultivate. If you were lucky enough to survive the first year, you gave up during the second). Jokes made the round about the stupid Jews who paid so much money for swamps.

But the Jews made it. I guess the century-long experience of being mistreated together with the pogroms that had happened not long ago, in Russia, Europe and North-Africa did theirs to motivate them. They put effort, all their money and knowledge into building up new homes. The immigrants that came there were a mix of farmers, workers, soldiers, intellectuals, medics, engineers etc. Men and women were active in the discussions and plannings of the settlements. All that contributed to the successful re-cultivation of the land and to the relatively modern and open society that evolved in Israel.

Together with the green, Arabs came to work there. Many Palestinians are descendants of the migrant workers from Egypt, Sudan, Syria, Lebanon, who came between 1830 and 1945 to what is now Israel. And they came by increasing numbers, because the Jewish immigrants created more and more work and wealth.

A study from 1943 – 1947 and 1949 – 1963, as well showed that most Arabic inhabitants came from other countries. For example, the village el-Fahan (20 km west of Hadera): In 1943, out of 2.800 inhabitants 900 were from Egypt, 1.400 from Hejaz in Saudi-Arabia, 500 from today’s Jordan. 

The population of el-Fahan exploded when Jordan’s King Hussein brought ten thousands of Arabic settlers there from 1948 – 1967, for the Arabization of the city that is already mentioned in the Bible.

Since the founding of the state of Israel tenth of thousands of Arabic immigrants have come to Jewish cities, farms and fabrics and all the other work opportunities, doubling and tripling the number of Arabs.

The Peel-Commission reported in 1937, that the „… lack of land … is less attributable to many Jews having bought land, but to the increase of the Arabic people.“

So far so good. But now the real problems began. To make it short: The Arabic leaders didn’t like the thought, that the Jews were prospering, especially since the idea of an organized Arabic settlement in the areas had been existent for a while among them. There had been attacks on a lower scale all the time. 

But now a broad anti-Jewish campaign was launched, intensified especially during WW II, all over the Arabic world. Protagonists of this campaign were for example the Muslim Brothers (especially their founder Hassan Al-Banna, a big admirer of Hitler and Mussolini, who praised them in speeches) or Amin al-Husseini - the Mufti of Jerusalem (a searched war-criminal and collaborator of NS-Germany). These campaigns were supported by the Nazis. Hitler and his thugs even set up a radio-station for al-Husseini to spread anti-Semitic ideas from Germany (where he lived as Hitler’s guest since 1941) over Egypt and the whole Maghreb. Powered by the internal explosive situation in the Arab countries – poverty, political fights etc. – this anti-Semitism digged its way deep into people’s thinking.

Arabic leaders and organizations tried to destroy Israel twice with military force but lost. So, they changed their tactics and used not only terrorism but also humans as a “tactical” instrument. During the 1967-war, they actively tried to make Arab inhabitants move out of Israel by telling them horror-stories about massacres by Israeli soldiers and pretending to want them safe when they overrun the country. Similar tales as we had them in Europe during the middle ages and up to the 1940s (some statistics talk about 68% Arabs that left Israel without ever having seen an Israeli soldier. They then denied many of those refugees to enter Egypt for example and used them to “stay an open wound in Israel’s flesh forever” (see the sources). 

They created a “Palestinian people” as a tactical instrument to have the right to claim land in Israel. It was Nasser, president of Egypt, who brought the Palestinian people on the political agenda first. To strengthen their arguments, they settled Arabs by the millions until today.

A quote from the Muslim Weekly Magazine KUL-SHAY, Beirut, 19.08.1951: „Who brought the Palestinians as refugees into the Lebanon, where they came into huge hardship and destitute – no one else but the Arabic States themselves, including the Lebanon.” Can be found in: /Farah/

Since 1967 Arabs built 261 settlements in Judea and Samaria alone - but only 144 Jewish settlements in ALL of Israel were built. But we never hear about that, do we?

When Jordan overran a part of Jerusalem in 1948, the Jews in this part of the city were killed, robbed and expelled to make Jerusalem Arabic. That happened in many parts of the country: Kfar Etzion near Hebron: in 1948, all Jewish citizens except one who managed to flee got shot by the Jordans. On the north side of Jerusalem, a village named Neve Jaakov was arabized through the murdering of all Jews.

Quotes:

·         Zuheir Mohsen, a high-ranked PLO-member, said in 1977 (in a disarming honesty): “There is no Palestinian people. The creation of a Palestinian State is one weapon to continue our fight against Israel and for the Arabic unity. Since Golda Meir is denying the existence of a Palestinian people, I claim, that there is such a people and that it is to be distinguished from the Jordans ... Only for political and tactical reasons we talk about the existence of a Palestinian identity, because it lies within the national interest of the Arabs, to oppose a separate existence of the Palestinians to Zionism. For tactical reasons Jordan, which is a country with fixed borders, cannot claim Haifa and Jaffa. I in contrast, as Palestinian, can claim Haifa, Jaffa, Beerscheba and Jerusalem. But as soon as our rights on Palestine are restored, we must not delay the reunion of Jordan and Palestine not a single longer.” Quote from: W. Roxan: Israel und die Palästinenser. Darmstadt 1978. p.66·

·         Prof. Philip Hitti, Arabic American historian from Princeton university, said in 1946 in front of the Anglo-American committee: „Something like Palestine has never existed in history.“ and in 1988: “One thing is clear: No Palestinian State has ever existed not for the shortest period in the past. There is no Palestinian language either, no distinct Palestinian culture, no special religion in Palestine.” Quotes from: Mitchell G. Bard: Behauptungen und Tatsachen-Der israelisch-arabische Konflikt im Überblick, Hänssler 2002. p.50 (original from Jerusalem Post, 2. November 1991) and from /Pfisterer/ (originally from Six millions de Palestiniens ... valeurs actuelles. Paris 26.12.1988, p. 31)·

·         „The Palestinians… it could have come to a humanitarian solution, like in other parts of the world ... [But it is as] the Arabs in the Arabic League said in those days: ‘We want to keep this as an open wound und use the human beings as a pawn against Israel. Quote from: Joan Peters in, quoted in ARAB NATIONS PERPETUATED THE REFUGEE PROBLEM /Arutz Sheva-4. Febr. 2001

I did not mention all the things we can see on TV every day: Terrorist attacks and rockets that end peace-negotiations and provoke counter-attacks. There are organisations, who have no interest at all to make peace with Israel. They will not stop until Israel is destroyed or they are. The sad thing is that they use their own people, Muslims and Arabs to reach their goals. And these people get brainwashed and let themselves be used for a war, that will better nothing for them. What will happen, when Israel is destroyed? Will the Palestinians live any better in the ruins of this country? It would be so easy: Let the refugees in your countries, not like 1967 when you first called them to leave their homes and then put them in refugee camps and treated them like second class humans. Just let them in, stop telling them, that Israel is the root of all evil.

But this will never happen, I fear that peace will never come. I feel sorry for the Jews, who for almost 2000 years are expelled from their land, fought, harassed and lied upon, be it by Europeans or Arabs, Christians or Muslims. It’s a shame. Not even after the fabric-like murder during the “3rd Reich” we manage to let them live in peace. They do not want to make the world Jewish. They just want to live their lifes with their religion in their country.

When you watch the news, not from Arabic countries or Israel – no, from Europe, then you can find reports about policemen giving their microphones and speakers to people who use them to shout things like “Hamas, Hamas, Jews into the gas” through them:

http://www.faz.net/aktuell/rhein...

Did German (!) police do anything against those exclamations which are illegal according to German law? No, you know what they did? They put a young man on trial, who had stood beside this aggressive bawling people and waved a little, 5-inch-long Israel-flag. Sued him for making an unregistered counter-demonstration. Although the German constitution gives everybody the right to express their opinion peacefully at any time. But the judge spoke justice, right? No. He found that the man was guilty and since he was a kind judge, he offered him, if he would commit his crime, to just make him pay a small fee. Otherwise it would be way more expensive.

Such things happen all over Europe. Jews emigrate back to Israel out of Europe and this only place where they can feel, if not safe, then at least wanted, this place is in steady danger of being destroyed. Arabs have so many countries where they can live in, Europeans, Christians, Muslims have. Why don’t we leave Jews live on this tiny place on earth? I really don’t get it. We are drifting into something very bad. But this time no one will be able to say that they didn’t know anything. This time everybody could see the signs in the newspapers, on TV, on the radio. If you believe in god, no matter which: Beware, beware. If you do not believe in any god then: Will you be able to stand the shame?

Sources:

/Stein/: Kenneth W. Stein: The Land Question in Palestine, 1917-1939, The University of North Carolina Press, 1984

/Peters/: Joan Peters: From Time Immemorial-The Origins of the Arab-Jewish Conflict Over Palestine, Harper & Row, NY, 198

/Twain/: Mark Twain: The Innocents Abroad, London 1881.

/Voss/: H. Carl Voss: The Palestine Problem Today. Israel and its Neighbours.

/RBP/: Royal-British-Palestine-Commission: Report of 1913

/Goldberg/: David B. Goldberg, M.A., Haschiwa: Auf unwegsamen Pfaden- von Touristen selten betreten (Exzerpt), in: Die Rückkehr No.2/1995

/Samad/: Hamed Abdel-Samad: Der Islamische Faschismus. Eine Analyse. Droemer Verlag 2014

/Faran/: Joseph Farah, An unconventional Arab viewpoint, © 2003

/Pfisterer/: Rudolf Pfisterer: Israel oder Palästina. R.Brockhaus 1992.

/Kark/ Ruth Kark, Ed.: The Land that became Israel/ Ran Aaronsohn: Cultural Landscape of Pre-Zionist Settlements. Yale University Press. London 1990

/Scheel/ Wolfgang Scheel. Referat March 2006: Zionistische Landbegrünung als Erfüllung biblischer Verheißungen.

/Ba/ S.83, /Pf/ S.147 (Bericht der Königlichen Palästina-Kommission, S. 242, Detaillierte Protokollauszüge in J. Peters, From Time, S. 302ff). and https://www.freitag.de/autoren/b...

/Fereydoun/: Fereydoun Hoveyda: Que veulent les Arabes? Paris 1991. In German: Was wollen die Araber? Droemer Knaur. München 1992

/EB11/: Encyclopaedia Britannica of 1911

https://www.quora.com/Why-does-Israel-seem-to-be-such-a-big-theme-on-Quora-when-there-are-so-many-other-troubled-areas-in-the-world

[mabith]

July reads part II. Asterisks are re-reads. Little Fires Everywhere – Celeste Ng - I really enjoyed this one. It felt like one of the more realistic contemporary fiction books I’ve read. Paper Boats – Dee Lestari - This group of ‘friends’ hide so much from each other I wondered if they’re actually close at all. I liked parts of this but it felt like the author didn’t know how to make the plot work as she wanted if the friends actually talked to each other about their feelings. Rabid: A Cultural History – Bill Wasik and Monica Murphy - Interesting pretty good book about rabies, though it’s mainly a scientific and medical history vs a cultural one. The Battle of Churubusco – Andrea Ferraris - An interesting subject but the art wasn’t quite right. The landscapes were perfect but the people were so cartoonish and stiff. Dragonsdawn – Anne McCaffrey - Eh, okay. I never read many of the Pern books and the earlier adult ones have so much sexism it kills me (somehow the Menolly books don’t and I read and loved those first so everything else felt odd). The Master Butcher's Singing Club – Louise Erdrich - Loved this. Beautiful, quiet but interesting historical fiction. A Dream Called Home – Reyna Grande - Second memoir covering Grande’s life after high school, struggling with getting through college, becoming a young mother, and becoming a published author. Written enough after the fact that she’s able to look back honestly. Enjoy Our Universe – Alvaro De Rujula - Really imbalanced popular science, not recommended. Beautiful – Juliet Marillier - A take on and extension of the Norse tale East of the Sun, West of the Moon. Interesting, but not Marillier’s best. Jovah's Angel – Sharon Shinn * - Comfort re-read. Still really enjoy the Samaria books. Say Nothing – Patrick Radden Keefe - Everyone’s talking about this for very good reasons. It’s excellently written. Takes the focus of a single murder in Northern Ireland in 1972 and turns it into a broader history of specific people and events of the Troubles. Angels in America – Tony Kushner - Finally got to this, but I think it really needs to be seen. I had trouble with the mix of fantasy elements, but that’s just me. Hell's Princess – Harold Schechter - Good old historical true crime about Belle Gunness. Well written but missed a trick regarding fire investigations (could have included some modern knowledge but didn’t, perhaps for tension/mystery reasons). The Dark Mirror – Juliet Marillier * - Excellent historical fantasy set in the Pictish lands in the 6th century. Marillier is my favorite fantasy author. The Name of Death – Klester Cavalcanti - Biography-ish of a Brazilian contract killer but I have a lot of doubts on the content and the way it was written. I don’t think it’s worth reading.