tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77591815815455147612024-03-05T22:18:48.894-04:00Holy HotnessWelcome to my corner of the universe to share thoughts, inspirations, and questions that arise while on my journey for Jesus. My goal is to encourage, provoke and relate to others in the body of Christ but since I'm a young, single woman, a good bit of what I say will reflect that perspective. We're all in the same struggle but hopefully some of this Holy Hotness can edify (and entertain) us along the way.pVIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881301257312705464noreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-78834314834244111432014-06-22T22:54:00.000-04:002014-06-22T23:06:01.464-04:00dumbfounded<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That's the first word that comes to mind when, as an outsider looking in, I witness the kind of women around me who are already married. I'll be the first to admit that the saying is true: Comparison is the thief of joy. But at the same time, I ask myself "Is that how I have to be to get a ring??" I mean, women who can't/don't cook; women who are overbearing and bossy; women who are not even slightly... well, I'll leave that one alone since I'm being judgmental enough.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The nature of my comments betray the fact that I am ultimately judging myself. By comparing the things that I can/will do in a marriage to the things that [some] married women can't/won't, I am saying simply this: Well, what's wrong with me?? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Don't get it twisted, though--I am well aware of the fact that people get married for all the wrong reasons. Simply walking down the aisle is the easiest part of what should be a life-long commitment to love and to cherish. But all I'm saying is, this is something of a 'wake-up' call regarding my ideals vs. the realities of marriage. I have absolutely NO right to say who deserves to be proposed to [even though I have definitely questioned why some women did #realtalk], but I now realize that things I thought were supposed to be requirements are not necessarily even priorities. Makes me wonder what the odds are of getting hitched to a man who doesn't care how I look, or what I say, or if I can keep house.... cuz I know some sistas who definitely hit those jackpots! But I digress...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's these kinds of superficial ramblings that fill my head; clearly not the kind of content I want to make a habit of posting. But I guess I'm sharing this because I view it as some sort of revelation. I don't <b>have</b> to be the Proverbs 31 woman to get a husband!! But then that begs the question: What kind of man would I get?</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-7230624600301501732014-04-19T04:00:00.000-04:002014-04-19T04:00:03.964-04:00WANTED: dead or alive<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm alive... physically. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Emotionally? I guess that depends on when you ask.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spiritually? *pfft* That's an ongoing conflict; they say struggle is a sign that you're not dead [yet].</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel irresponsible and a bit ashamed for 'abandoning' Holy Hotness the way I did. Not like anybody lost any sleep over the halt in content but I like to see things through to completion. I guess I had to do that with other situations in my life and this blog suffered because of it. But when I look back over my posts, even though I'm positive that my words were able to help others, I think the writing did more to help me than anyone else... but I am grateful for the 'company'.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't foresee completely shutting this down, but I know that I won't be able to write as regularly as I would like to. What am I saying? I don't even know. When I figure it out, I'll be sure to say it here, though.</span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>pVIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12881301257312705464noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-58804836431098396792013-10-18T22:18:00.000-04:002013-10-18T22:18:26.686-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY: AngelsHey errybodaaaay! Hope you all had a great week and have an awesome weekend. I'm feelin kinda crunk right now, and you can blame tonight's chune fo dat!<br />
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Angels by KB, featuring Flame, is that hot track that makes you just wanna bounce. Like, you can't NOT get crunk offa dis! Any peeps from the Dirty South in this piece? HOLLAAAAAA!<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-59815407424464667992013-10-11T08:00:00.000-04:002013-10-11T08:00:01.983-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY: Abide<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's been LONG overdue.... but FCF is baaaaaaack!!! Can't promise a new chune every Friday, but you guys have been more than patient--I appreciate y'all!</div>
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So with no <strike>further ado</strike> long talkin', this week we're hearing from Rhythm-n-Praise artist Lexi. Lemme just say that if the music thing doesn't work out for her at some point, she can def make it in show-business. I mean, her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/lexitelevision?feature=watch" target="_blank">church-themed comedy sketches</a> are mad hilarious and she also has a talk show... but sista gurl can blow, too!</div>
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This chune, Abide, became one of my instant faves because of the way it just rolls off the ear. Lyrically, it's a worship song but musically, it got stank with a tinge of classic Motown R&B. Just lurrrve the vibe! Anyway, time for you to enjoy summa dis heah!</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-38301694526467914382013-10-10T22:03:00.001-04:002013-10-10T22:03:52.811-04:00strength = weakness<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being <i>strong</i> is a blessing and a curse. When you're like me--so used to being the
support system for others, or nobody ever sees you sweat under
pressure--people think of you as invincible... when the complete opposite is the truth.</div>
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They
figure, "She's tough, nothing gets under her skin!" When, in actuality, I made my own skin tough as leather to protect the tender heart
underneath. Truth is, I find it therapeutic to help others through their issues because it helps me take my mind off of my own. But what disturbs me is when I <b>do</b> reach out for help--as rare as that may be--somehow I expect my peeps to show that they care just a little bit more... but I'm almost always left wanting in that regard. I've expressed my distress, so should I really have to ask you to give just a little more of a damn?? And this is supposed to be my 'inner circle'... SMH</div>
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Sounds like I've just got some sucky friends... or is this just par for the course when you've been blessed(?!) to help bear the burdens of others? I dunno, but I feel like this outer layer of toughness needs to be peeled off one way or another. I just gotta figure out who I can let close to me if I'm gonna leave myself so open......</div>
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to be continued?</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-51184519402528350202013-09-08T18:44:00.001-04:002013-09-08T18:44:48.691-04:00the war withinHow does one reconcile between equal yet opposing forces/ideas/emotions? The struggle is real, ladies and gentlemen, and I need to vent about mine.<br />
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<u>About my ex-boyfriend...</u><br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-heart-truth.html" target="_blank">I hate that I even still have feelings for him</a>. Like, especially after the way he treated me most recently... I must be a glutton for punishment. He obviously doesn't want me. He's not even about that saved live. Why am I not over him already?? Why do memories and fantasies of him haunt the inner recesses of my mind?</li>
<li>In
a twisted way, I wonder if my feelings for him are a sneak preview what
unconditional love is. I won't deny that selfish motives were involved
on my part, but there is a deeper symbolism. [the desire] To love
someone who pushes you away is exemplified by God all the time. They
hurt you but you still want the best for them. They ignore you but
anytime they might need you, you'll be there. This experience makes me
more sympathetic towards the way we treat God and I appreciate His love
all the more.</li>
</ol>
<u>Every time I find out that someone else I know got engaged/married.</u>..<br />
<ol>
<li>I'm happy that another couple is committed to each other in life and love, and I pray the best for their relationship.</li>
<li>A little piece of me dies inside because I yearn to have the same for myself, yet there are no prospects on the horizon.</li>
</ol>
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<u>When I think about the current status of my life...</u><br />
<ol>
<li>It saddens me that I haven't accomplished so many things that I set out to do when I was much younger. I want to do more, be more, LIVE more!</li>
<li>Yet, I feel like an ungrateful wretch to have what I do and long for more when so many others in the world are suffering. Their lives are the sum total of REAL suffering; and here I am whining about my 1st-world problems. Ugh!</li>
</ol>
<u>Concerning my relationship with Jesus...</u><ol>
<li>I know He is <b>real</b> because of amazing things He's already done in my life. I chose Him because He chose me... loved me... died for me. I feel honored to know that He used Himself as collateral for my sinful debts. I believe that whatever He does is in my best interest, even though I don't always understand.</li>
<li>I hate that I don't understand what God is doing in my life and it frustrates the crap outta me! I know He hears my prayers and is working behind the scenes but so much seems SO unfair. I'm tired of not getting any answers (or not the answers that <i>I want</i>). My faith feels worn out!</li>
</ol>
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I'm well aware of the eternal <a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2011/09/molting.html" target="_blank">battle between flesh and spirit</a> but that doesn't bring me any comfort in dealing with these inner conflicts. Welp, just wanted to get this off my chest. As you were.<br />
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be blessed,<br />
pVI<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-21817503557652657502013-08-21T22:56:00.003-04:002013-08-21T23:10:32.167-04:00God as parent, part 2: relationship(s) with God, exposited<div style="text-align: justify;">
Welcome to the third post in the series <a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2012/05/relationships-with-god-exposited-series.html" target="_blank">Relationship(s) with God, Exposited</a> and part two of the topic God as Parent; feel free to get caught up on <a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2012/06/god-as-parent-part-1-relationships-with.html" target="_blank">part one</a>. Once again, here's my <b>disclaimer</b>: I don't have any children, but I have closely observed parents (including my own) with the expectation of someday becoming one.</div>
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Back in part one, I gave an overview of the way God loves <b>all</b> His children by default and that His affections bubble over once we decide to become His spiritual offspring (through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ). That piece ended with a nod towards <b>discipline</b>--the <i>necessary evil</i> of parenting--and that is the focus of this installment. Just for clarity's sake, here's a thorough definition:<br />
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<h2 class="me">
dis·ci·pline</h2>
<i><span class="pronset"><span class="show_spellpr" style="display: inline;"><span class="prondelim">[</span><span class="pron"><span class="boldface">dis</span>-<span class="ital-inline">uh</span>-plin</span><span class="prondelim">]</span> <span class="pron_toggle" style="display: inline;"></span></span></span><span class="pg"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">noun;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">verb,</span> </span></span><span class="secondary-bf"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">dis·ci·plined,</span> </span></span><span class="secondary-bf"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">dis·ci·plin·ing.</span> </span></span></i> </div>
<span class="pg"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword"></span> </span></span><br />
<div class="luna-Ent">
<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">1.</span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword"> training</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">act</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">accordance</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">with</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">rules;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">drill:</span> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword">military</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">discipline.</span><br />
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<span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="dnindex" style="background-color: yellow;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">2.</span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;"> activity,</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">exercise,</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">or</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">a</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">regimen</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">that</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow; cursor: default;">develops</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">or</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">improves</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">a</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">skill;</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">training</span> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword"></span><span id="hotword" name="hotword"></span><br />
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<span class="dnindex" style="background-color: yellow;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">3.</span></span></span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow; cursor: default;"> punishment</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow; cursor: default;">inflicted</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">by</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">way</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">of</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow; cursor: default;">correction</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">and</span><span style="background-color: yellow;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: yellow;">training.</span><br />
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">4.</span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword"> the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">rigor</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">training</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">effect</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">experience,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">adversity,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">etc.:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">harsh</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">discipline</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/poverty">poverty</a><span id="hotword">. </span></span></div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">5.</span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;"> behavior</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">accord</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">with</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">rules</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">conduct;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">behavior</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">and</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">order</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">maintained</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">by</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">training</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">and</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/control">control</a><span id="hotword">: </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword">good</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">discipline</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">army.</span><br />
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There are plenty of instances in the Bible where disciplining a child is prescribed as the remedy for a young life ending--or even beginning--in despair. One of my grandmother's favorites when I was growing up was "Don't spare the rod and spoil the child". <span style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: white;">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2023:13-14&version=NIV" target="_blank">Proverbs 23:13-14</a>] </span></span> That verse implies corporal punishment, known locally as a "cut arse" [Caribbeanspeak for <i>spanking</i>], but we all know that discipline can be inflicted in MANY more ways than just physically. In more general terms, we read that "The Lord chastens whom He loves" <span style="background-color: white;">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+12:6&version=NIV" target="_blank">Hebrews 12:6</a>] </span> and there are several examples in the Bible where God did that in two ways: <u>proactively and reactively</u>.</div>
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Samson, of Old Testament fame, is one of the first names that comes to mind in the case of reactive discipline. He deliberately disobeyed God's assignment for his life and paid severe consequences for doing so: losing his blessing of supernatural strength, capture and blinding by the enemy, public humiliation, and untimely death. [<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judges+16&version=NIV">Judges 16</a>] <span style="background-color: white;"> </span>The next candidate in this category is Jonah and his disobedience, then punishment, of epic proportions. God sent him to warn a city of impending doom, but he wasn't havin' that and took off in the opposite direction... dude became dinner for a whale, then got puked up on a beach. <b>#NOTwinning</b> [<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah%201-2&version=NIV" target="_blank">Jonah 1-2</a>] Luckily for him, his disciplinary action didn't result in death and he had enough sense to do what God sent him to do in the first place. [<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah%203&version=NIV" target="_blank">Jonah 3]</a><br />
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Proactive discipline is a bit more profound because we don't always understand the lesson we are supposed to learn during the process of said discipline. Take King David, for example... he wasn't even legit as king until well into later in his life, even though <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%2016:11-13&version=NLT" target="_blank">he was <b>anointed</b> for the position as a youth</a>. Could you imagine what that felt like?? Basically, you're told that God chose you to run His nation--but not yet. Just sit tight for a couple decades. Right. So proactive discipline for David came in the form of patience and preparation. <br />
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To pass the time until he could ascend the throne, young David was out in the pastures protecting his father's sheep from lions and bears. Little did he know that doing the 'dirty work' behind the scenes would catapult him to the forefront by killing a giant that punked trained warriors. [<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%2017:34-37&version=NLT" target="_blank">1 Samuel 17:34-37</a>] But it didn't end there because David then joined the army of the king; musta been really awkward working for the man you know you're going to replace, but he.o.e.n.o. (Yeah, I said it.) It probably didn't dawn on him at the time, but enlisting to serve and then rising through the ranks to lead said army was essentially basic training in <i>leadership</i>. Kinda useful if you're gonna run a whole country, no? So by the time it was David's turn to wear the crown, he'd already been through "King 101" because God had orchestrated the events of his life to provide the discipline needed to be Israel's most noteworthy leader. Checking for his general's wife, knocking her up, then having him whacked wasn't in God's syllabus, tho... that was definitely some <i>extracurricular activity</i> on David's part. Yeah...<br />
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The moral of the story is that discipline doesn't necessarily equal punishment, but God--like any other loving parent--won't hesitate to use punitive action to teach a serious lesson. On the other hand, He wants His children to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with the blessings that He has for us. So think of a teen itching to drive dad's car... Dad would be irresponsible, foolish or both to give junior the keys before making sure that he's passed driving school and/or gotten his learner's permit. But when Dad does hand over the keys, it's to a son who was trained on how to enjoy the blessing of a whip <i>responsibly</i> (we can hope).<br />
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So when we endure seemingly unfair punishment and wonder what we did wrong, keep in mind that God might just be inflicting a good dose of discipline for our benefit in the long run. Yeah, just gotta love our Heavenly Father!<br />
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be blessed,<br />
pVI</div>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7759181581545514761" name="more"></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-40755668797097437552013-07-29T21:36:00.000-04:002013-07-29T21:36:17.246-04:00All hail the homewrecker!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So it seems to be a "thing" now, where <em>side-piece</em> status has become waaaay glamorous. It's, like, cool to roll up in OPP... then ultimately become legit. You know, peeps like Angelina Jolie, Alicia Keys, Gabrielle Union and, most recently, the scandalous </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1837576/?ref_=sr_1" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Olivia Pope</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. I'll admit that there's nothing new under the sun, and infidelity didn't show up on the scene yesterday [cue Prince Charles]. But somehow, it's like women--who are usually the 'victims' of an unfaithful partner--have become cheerleaders of other women who are breaking up relationships... all in the name of "true love". For the record, I am fully aware that women do their share of dirt but the odds are that pretty much in favor of the man stepping out. #dontshootthemessenger</span></div>
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I see it online all the time: comments from women about how 'he' and 'she' are so in love, they are an amazing couple, and were truly meant to be... never mind that 'she' met 'him' in an established relationship. It was maybe less than a generation ago that society used to shun them for their dastardly deeds and the term "homewrecker" was reserved just for the type of women who are now treated like pop-culture rockstars. This really amazes me because I'm a stickler for little things called <strong>vows</strong> and <strong>commitment</strong>.</div>
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Don't get it twisted, though... I'm not letting the men off the hook! A home can't be wrecked without TWO willing participants and these men are just as much to blame. So what if they <em>fell out of love</em> with their partners? Particularly for those who were married, that man stood before God, family and loved ones to declare their love and commitment, for better or worse. Tough times in a relationship are <strong>NO EXCUSE</strong> for infidelity, but I also know that some people just aren't meant to be together. But here's how I feel: a <strong>divorce</strong> or <strong>complete breakup</strong> should be in effect before entertaining any other interests--I don't care how evil, manipulative, boring, unattractive, etc a partner becomes!!</div>
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So to anyone who has encouraged an illegitimate relationship for the sake of chemistry, compatibility, happiness, or 'real love', just ask yourself how you would feel if it happened to you. I wouldn't' wish that kind of betrayal on anyone simply because I never want to experience it myself. I don't care how happy and fulfilled those couples may seem now, God and/or karma will have the final say. Call me a hater if ya want but it is what it is.</div>
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<strong>#rantover</strong></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-55819661269228161522013-06-23T19:26:00.000-04:002013-06-23T19:26:30.164-04:00life in "draft mode"<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have this... thing. I attribute it to the perfectionist in me but who knows what the real deal is? Anyway, it's this thing where I feel the need to express myself clearly and effectively, all the time. For that very reason, writing is my preferred medium of communication because I can craft an interaction--no matter how formal or mundane--to perfection. It's to the point where I often start an e-mail, blog post, or text[!] and then let it sit in the Drafts folder until I can go back and tinker with it. Yeah... definitely a thing.</div>
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It's not like I aspire to become the next Alice Walker or Ernest Hemingway, but I always feel that something can be said [i.e. written] better than it comes out initially. This is especially true when I have to write about or respond to a matter that's urgent or dear to my heart. I make it a point to never write, or even speak, in anger or haste... while an e-mail can be 'un-sent' or a post deleted, words that reach the eyes/ears of another can <b>never</b> be retracted.</div>
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In a broader sense, I realize that I generally live my life in the same manner: in draft mode, as it were. Always seeking to revise my plans to perfection or not act on something unless it has been "proof-read" for error... And after all that, you would think that I'd have it all together. HA! It's an exercise in futility, if you ask me. I find myself constantly trying to re-create and edit but the final drafts rarely come to fruition--the way I want them to, anyways. While I strive for perfection (in my eyes), I realize that life is passing me by in all of it's flawed splendor. There are so many things that I want to do but I'm waiting to get everything 'in place', first. It's like I'm stuck at my own drawing board re-writing the story of my existence, yet the final draft never leaves my hand. </div>
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It's not like I haven't done anything worthy in my time on Earth, but there's <b>so</b> much more. Some things have worked according to plan, others unfolded unexpectedly, and yet others have not manifested. Within the last year, I put a dent in my short bucket list, with God's help. That was definitely a big step towards owning my drafts and making them perfectly <b>im</b>perfect... and it felt freakin' fantastic!! I don't foresee myself creating loose ends in my life all willy-nilly but I am now less afraid of having every 'i' dotted and every 't' crossed than I thought possible. I'm venturing into the unknown more and while every outcome may not be the way I planned it, I have a greater sense of peace having known that I <b>did</b> something unexpected.</div>
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Draft mode is slowly fading into the background. My life is now a continually evolving manuscript, authored by God and produced by me. How is the story of your existence being written?</div>
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blessings,</div>
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pVI</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-932500181103422862013-06-04T23:12:00.000-04:002013-07-03T20:26:04.820-04:00"wifey material", part deux<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, I know I <a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2012/02/wifey-material-eh.html" target="_blank">wrote on this already</a>, but as a single, Christian woman, this topic will stay on heavy rotation here until I get married, so yeah... If you're tired of reading my rants, PRAY for God to get my hubby to me quick, fast, and in a hurry!</div>
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So I was watching a message by Bishop T. D. Jakes when the following statement stopped me in my tracks: "He who finds a wife, finds a good thing. He who finds a <b>wife</b>, finds a good thing..." Not a woman with <i>wifey material</i> or who will be given <i>wifey status</i>.... Any man can find a woman but the 'good thing' comes in finding <b>A WIFE</b>! As in <b>this woman is found already in the state of wifeliness</b> (yes, there's a red line under the word... you know what I mean<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span>).</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">wait....... what?!!</span></div>
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Well, whaddya know?! All this time, I've been thinking that dude had to find me <b>first</b>, and <i>then </i>the magic of matrimony would help me magically transform myself into the mythical "P31 Woman". :facepalm: CLEARLY, I was mistaken about the order of the universe and my intended role in it because apparently I gotta be bout dat life <b>before</b> hubby even shows up! Talk about a game changer...</div>
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OK, so now what do I do??! Simple--just start being a wife. Right. -_- For real tho, Bishop Jakes was using this example to demonstrate how faith works. You know... <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews%2011&version=NKJV" target="_blank">the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen</a> (also the scripture that people like me spit from memory and have no freakin' clue what it actually means! #truestory). So the saying "fake it 'til ya make it" is the closest thing to being truth, in this case. I have to carry myself as if I already got a ring on it... NOW! Do I have a user manual for that? Heck naw, so I guess I gotta be 'creative'. </div>
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I haven't really figured out what that's gonna look like for me, but I'll be sure to blog about it when I do. Are there any women reading this now who have adopted a similar strategy? Care to share notes on what you've done or what you're doing now? What worked and what didn't? I am SO open to hearing what y'all have to say so don't hold back!</div>
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be blessed,<br />
pVI<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-63568971168316370682013-05-27T00:12:00.001-04:002013-07-07T19:09:08.366-04:00Triple Decade Musings<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh, hi... it's a guest appearance by 'yours truly'! ^_^ It's been an 'interesting' time in my life, lately--not because 'interesting' stuff is actually happening, but because I've chosen to view things through my "lens of 30s wisdom" (yeah, I know that was wack but flow with me for a sec).</div>
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Well, since my last post here, I've done some thangs: development in personal, professional and mental arenas. Spiritual shoulda been at the top of the list, but y'all just keep praying for a sista... SMH Anyways, in all the 'progress' I've been making, it's been tinged with the things I've learned since entering the <i>dirty 30s</i> [insert mean mug here]. I know that there are lists out there of all the things that [especially] women should have/know by the time they're 30 but I'm observing that many of us are missing the memo. So here's my 2 cents on the matter (in no particular order):</div>
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<b>be secure in your insecurities</b></div>
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Ask any woman for a list of her flaws, and she could tell you in breakneck speed. Be they physical, spiritual, emotional, mental or otherwise, we know ALL too well what is 'wrong' with us, and dwelling on the negatives leaves us subconsciously vulnerable in those areas. Here's my thing: you know your shortcomings--now own them and make them your *ahem* "tricks". It's a slightly more sophisticated application of reverse psychology (kinda like if you do something embarrassing in public, laugh the first and the loudest to deflate the reactions of strangers). I'm not saying to go around throwing your weaknesses in everyone's faces ad nauseam, but simply embrace that there are some things that you can not change and make the best of them; OR identify the negative aspects of yourself that you CAN change and slowly but surely make progress towards improvement. The sooner you mentally master the things that make you insecure about yourself, the less likely it will be for you or anyone else to use them against you as ammunition.</div>
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<b>embrace your body type/figure and dress to accentuate the positive</b></div>
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This is an intentional segue from my first point because I know all too well how poor body image makes women's lives miserable! I can't count the number of one-way screaming fits I've thrown at God for not giving me the "standard" Black feminine figure. Short of plastic surgery, NO amount of working out is going to transform my body into Megan Good's, or Lisa Raye's, or Taraji Henson's, or... you get the point. No 'body' is perfect (even though some come REALLY close) but every woman has SOME positive features. It is our service to ourselves to know what they are and use the right clothes and accessories to highlight them instead of wasting our lives sulking about the bodies we <b>wish</b> we had. </div>
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On the flip side, TOO many women are actually dressing for the bodies they wish they had. #travesty Right now, I'ma be the sister, friend, mirror and inner voice of reason that you ignored before leaving your house wearing that--because a style or trend looks good does not mean that it looks good on YOU! Yes, I said it because I learned it for myself after wanting to cry because I had to leave outfits on store mannequins because I couldn't do them (or myself) justice. This isn't about fat vs. skinny but about understanding what accentuates the natural contours of your body. Like in the image here, the same dress looks very different on each shape below... </div>
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For example, if you have an <i>apple shape</i> (you carry more weight around your waist than in your hips/thighs), a <i>peplum</i> top or fitted skirt are NOT your friends. Opt for a top/dress with an <i>empire waist</i> that drapes over your mid-section instead of drawing attention to it. Or if you have great legs but narrow hips, wear skirts with pleats/gathered fabric through the waist/hip area--the extra fabric will give the illusion of fullness in the hip area. If these terms sound unfamiliar, here are some links that may help: <a href="http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/style/what-body-type-are-you1.htm">http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/style/what-body-type-are-you1.htm</a>; <a href="http://www.shopyourshape.com/body-shapes.html">http://www.shopyourshape.com/body-shapes.html</a>; <a href="http://ninasquirrelly.deviantart.com/art/12-realistic-woman-body-shape-chart-301110737">http://ninasquirrelly.deviantart.com/art/12-realistic-woman-body-shape-chart-301110737</a> The take-home lesson is to know your body, know what makes it look good and build your personal style on that foundation. When you look good, you feel great!</div>
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<b>take the time to learn from others</b></div>
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By the time you've reached your 30s, chances are good that you're "set in your ways". You're grown and have been doing certain things a certain way for quite a while, but that doesn't mean that you can't stand to learn a new thing or two. This is especially true when it comes to the elders in your life--until they die, they will always have that 'life edge' up on you so listen up. King Solomon was keepin' in real when he said, way back when, that there's NOTHING new under the sun. Granted, the Internet wasn't around in his time but the concept of networking and information sharing was still alive and well; same concept but different methods of transmission. </div>
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Also, treat yourself to cross-cultural exposure! I can not over-emphasize how travel and studying other cultures will expand your mind! Yes, traveling alone as a woman is somewhat risky but the Internet is the next best thing to going. Pick a random country/culture and look it up online--better yet, talk to people from different places. You'd be surprised at how learning about life in other places around the world can help you step outside of the self-containing bubble that you're in right now. In fact, here's the link to <a href="http://imported-chocolate.com/" target="_blank">Imported Chocolate</a> - the travel blog of a Black woman who encourages other sisters to do the same.</div>
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This is clearly not an exhaustive list and I'm sure I'll come across more while I continue my journey into "30-ness". But I figured I'd share the things that stuck out the most to me. After all, what good is knowledge if you keep it to yourself?</div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-37604424517935566322013-04-26T00:00:00.000-04:002013-04-26T00:00:04.478-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY... finally!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, yes, y'all! I know it's been <b>forever</b> since the last time I flung [past tense of 'fling'?] a chune your way... please say that you forgive me! I've still been trying to stabilize myself spiritually so I can provide the quality HOLY HOTNESS that you've come to know and love. ;-) The struggle is real but so is my God!</div>
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You've waited patiently for long enough, so let's get to it! This week's chune came out of the blue as I was going thru my iTunes looking for something I hadn't heard in a while... and this definitely fits the bill. It was originally released in 1999 by the Kenoly Brothers. [The who?!] Yeah, I can understand that reaction, except if you're older than 25 and/or listened to mainstream Christian music in the late 80s/early 90s, you MUST recognize the name Ron Kenoly! Like, before there was Jesus Culture... Byron Cage... Hillsong... Israel Houghton... Fred Hammond... there was <a href="https://www.ronkenoly.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Ron Kenoly</a>, thankyouverymuch! I wanna say that this man is to Praise and Worship music what James Brown was to soul--the GODfather.</div>
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Anyway, the man passed on his musical DNA to his children, 2 sons in particular, who started their own group in the late 90s: <a href="http://www.dagospeltruth.com/kenoly-brothers/" target="_blank">The Kenoly Brothers</a>. Their flavor is more urban/R&B so that's right up my alley... plus, who doesn't get excited about [FINE] young men singing for Jesus? <span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Wait... did I say that out loud?*</span> <span style="font-size: small;">So yeah, this particular ch<span style="font-size: small;">une isn't on that boom-bap vibe<span style="font-size: small;"> but I love it because it's just pia<span style="font-size: small;">no and vocals... they.can.actually.saaaaang.</span></span></span></span> The arrangement reminds me of Shai's Comforter or the acoustic version of <i>If I Ever Fall in Love</i>, and there's even a nod to K-Ci [Jodeci] with that trademark "Woooh, yeeeah!" #classic90sR&B And then there's the lyrics; it's a literal love song to the Lord that sends me straight into worship mode. I can remember that this chune was a big part of my return to Jesus back in college and it will always have a special place in my heart!</div>
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Hope you enjoy this throwback as much as I do! Have a blessed weekend. :-)</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-17331312357688963822013-03-30T22:17:00.000-04:002013-03-30T22:17:19.519-04:003>30: an Easter sub-text<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've never considered myself to be a math whiz but I do have a general understanding of how numbers work. For example, <b>2+2=4</b>... unless you've been tortured and brainwashed by Big Brother, and your power of independent thought has been broken to the point that if you were told that 2+2=<b>5</b>, you enthusiastically agree. (If you were thoroughly baffled by that reference, you need to read <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nineteen_Eighty-Four" target="_blank">1984 by George Orwell</a>!) I just felt the need to preface my post with this explanation because I'm sure you're wondering why I would infer that 3 is greater in value than 30. Welp, I'm so glad you asked!</div>
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Jesus Christ came to Earth for a divine purpose and His mission, which He ultimately chose to accept, was essentially suicide. That was a bitter pill for anyone to swallow, and even God in human form required preparation for it. Jesus spent 30 years growing, learning and living as one of us before He <i>officially</i> began His Father's business [<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke%203:23&version=NIV" target="_blank">Luke 3:23</a>]. Not much is shared in the Bible about His life between childhood and 30, but whatever happened during that 'buffering period' was necessary for Him to become the Jesus that would literally save the world.</div>
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Once He was <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%203:16-17&version=NIV" target="_blank">baptized--or effectively ordained</a>--Jesus' ministry did not stop until He rose from the grave and ascended to heaven. It is taught that a span of 3 years separated His baptism and His crucifixion, and in that time He changed the course of history. Jesus walked on the path of His purpose by preaching, performing miracles and making disciples. In a mere 3 years, He revolutionized the way people approached and encountered God and each other by cancelling "the law" and replacing it with grace. Jesus forged a new path to God through faith and love--NOT works and rituals. He did more in those 3 years than could have been done in all of the time before His life and after His death... but only when it was His time.</div>
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God's concept of time, space, math and science are above and beyond what our crummy human minds can comprehend. He orchestrated exactly when Christ's birth, death and resurrection would take place, and not a moment too soon or too late. In His omnipotence, He surmised that <b>3 would be greater than 30</b>. That 3 decades would be the appropriate incubation period for Jesus to unleash 3 years of awesomesauce the likes of which the universe had never witnessed. God made it so that His son lived and learned among Earthlings for 30 years so that Jesus could make His 3 years of ministry real and relevant to those whom He was dying to save.</div>
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Tomorrow is Resurrection Sunday--the day we recognize as that which Jesus basically told sin, death and hell to kick rocks. As we celebrate that our Redeemer lives, let's pause to think about the path that His life took while on Earth... that even His life was subject to God's divine timing. This is especially applicable if, like me, you are confused/anxious about why certain things in your life seem to be taking SO long to happen. It's an appropriate reminder to us all that <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+55:9&version=NIV" target="_blank">God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours</a>, and He will let us off our chains when <strike>the</strike> <b>His</b> time is right.</div>
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Happy Easter!</div>
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pVI</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-48043847398738670272013-02-16T00:03:00.000-04:002013-07-09T19:12:17.869-04:00The "heart" truth?*<span class="text Jer-17-9" id="en-NIV-19367"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*<b>Disclaimer</b>: "The heart truth" is a registered trademark for <a href="http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/educational/hearttruth/" target="_blank">a program of the National Institutes of Health</a>. Full attribution has been given via the official website here [<a href="http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/educational/hearttruth/">http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/educational/hearttruth/</a>] and no commercial gain is resulting from the use of th<span style="font-size: x-small;">e</span> slogan as the title of this blog post.*</span></span><br />
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<span class="text Jer-17-9" id="en-NIV-19367"><span class="text Jer-17-9" id="en-NIV-19367">Yes, the word "heart" is in the title, but I can assure you that this isn't post-Valentine's day fluff and
sweetness. I've been mulling over this topic for a minute and I just
hope it can bless somebody because it's coming from raw feels deep down
inside. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Jer-17-9" id="en-NIV-19367">The world says: The heart wants what [who] the heart wants. The <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+17:9&version=NIV" target="_blank"><b>word</b></a> says: <i>The heart is deceitful above all things</i></span><i> <span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">and beyond cure.</span></span> <span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">Who can understand it? </span></span></i><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">I can say from personal experience that both are unmistakeably true. Over the last several months, I've been on a journey that took me to the outskirts of emotional purgatory, courtesy of my "heart". At 30 years old, I learned things about myself that genuinely scared the mess outta me primarily because I was willing to let my feels overrule my thoughts. That <b>never</b> happens to me... but it did.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">At some point, I made the decision to get something I had gone without for longer than I was willing to tolerate: sex/[a sorry substitute for] love/emotional affirmation from a man.... one that I knew and trusted.... one that I was in love with once upon a time. Without any other romantic interests looking in my direction, he seemed like the 'logical' choice. Plus, I was picking up some vibes from him that he was feeling me too, so... all systems GO! for "Operation: Get Some", right?!! Sure! Except for a minor detail called <span style="font-size: large;"><b>sin</b></span>; aka <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>disobeying God</strong></span><span style="font-size: small;">;</span> bka <span style="font-size: large;"><b>following my heart</b></span>.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">My 'heart' was leading me straight to hell, and I was doing the REAL Harlem shake [holla to Puff Daddy!] all the way there. I was under no misconceptions about my intentions and the actions they were leading to. In fact, I had made up my mind that I was gonna ride my carnal inclinations for all they were worth [you <b>know</b> that pun was intended!], brace myself for the firestorm of consequences and repercussions, then grovel for forgiveness at the feet of all-merciful God. After all, He has pardoned others of much 'worse' than what I had in mind so how bad could it be? Welp, let's see: unplanned pregnancy, STDs/HIV, sexual assault, unauthorized sex tapes, rejection, emotional abuse, and untimely death (just because *shrug*).... and I just came up with those off the top of my head.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">And--would ya believe it?--my 'heart' still wanted to go through with this twisted affair! So when the Bible tells you straight up that the heart is "deceitful above all things": if ya don't know, now ya know! The funny thing is that my brain computed all of these risks, yet my <strike>heart</strike> flesh was able to cancel them out. For the sake of a man that I used to be truly in love with YEARS ago but who 'kinda sorta liked me' now, but did nothing to actually show it. </span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">My brain told me that I was setting myself up for massive disappointment and that this situation was wrong on every level, but I convinced myself that I was being "true to my feelings". </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">To make a long, sordid story short, he and I never hooked up. In fact, he pretty much dismissed me after I confessed my true feelings for him. Yeah... didn't see that coming. It was the worst AND best thing that could have happened to me. I'm convinced that God blocked it as a way to rescue my pitiful self from an epic fail (and I'll have more thoughts to share on that later). </span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">But even now, I can't figure out <b>why</b> my heart wanted this man so desperately! Growing up, I observed women act the damn fool over men who weren't worth the time of day, and I thought to myself "She is SO sad. Desperation ain't a good look, girl--leave him yesterday, already!" But I never thought I'd be <i>that</i> girl, better yet, completely embrace what it felt like to be that girl. Y'all, I was so twisted that I found myself sympathizing with Olivia Pope's adulterous escapades! (For those of you who aren't "gladiators in suits", I'm talking about the main character of the TV show <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1837576/?ref_=sr_1" target="_blank"><i>Scandal</i></a>.) Being ruled by your heart/flesh takes you to a <b>dark</b> place and I think I just scratched the surface of the damage that can result. I can never again judge a woman who says "I don't know why I love him--I just do." But what I <em>can</em> do is pray that, like me, God gives her the intervention she doesn't want but badly needs needs to rip her from her own heart's grimy claws.</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">So, what now? Truth is, I'm still traumatized by the whole mess that is the current state of my spiritual/emotional life, but dude is slowly being deleted from my system. Allowing Jesus back to His rightful place in my heart is tough but at least I'm back on the right track. It's no easy task to exchange current desires for future blessings, and I struggle with that every single day. But if I'm gonna be the Christian that I claim to be, this just comes with the territory. [sigh] </span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><b><i>Create in me a [clean] pure heart, O God, and renew a [right] steadfast spirit within me. --<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2051:10&version=NIV" target="_blank">Psalm 51:10</a></i></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">be blessed,</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9">pVI </span></span> </span></span> </span></span></div>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Jer-17-9"><br /></span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-16537239730554612732013-01-20T18:53:00.000-04:002013-01-20T18:55:49.004-04:00#feelinginadequate < #Godsgrace<div style="text-align: justify;">
I didn't want this to be a "woe is me" post, rather an explanation of why I haven't been posting regularly for the last few months. Earlier, I mentioned <a href="http://holyhotnessbypvi.blogspot.com/2012/12/turning-page.html" target="_blank">taking some time off</a> for personal development--and that's what I did (but not really). I also shared about the downward slope I was sliding on and the fact that I was [not proud about being] just all up in my flesh. I've been getting my mail in an emotional, spiritual and mental abyss for a minute; it's been ugly. And that's the reason why I've been so quiet here... I haven't felt <b>worthy</b> of writing here.</div>
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Yeah, it's my blog and I don't owe anyone anything here, but my intention has always been to remain true to God and myself, and in so doing, to my readers. Welp, I've been truly a mess and nobody likes to put their dirty laundry on blast. But what I'm learning through all this is the significance of God's grace. All while I was scheming and plotting my way into some epic mischief, He never left me to be undone my own devices. Believe me when I say I was actively trying to have my "good Christian woman" card revoked, but as the song goes, <i>God blocked it</i>. Yes, people--God is the ultimate blocker. After my failed attempts, I was finally able to pick my common sense up off the floor and dust it off to realize that He was working behind the scenes to save my [spiritual] behind at the expense of my flesh. It hurt like hell to not get what I wanted, but what softened the blow was knowing that I was rescued from a LOT more pain down the road if I had succeeded in my schemes.</div>
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Soooo, what now? Since I learned my lesson [hopefully], I'll be working on strengthening my relationship with Him. After all, any relationship can only be successful if both parties are putting in work. I was slacking up big time, but God pulled my weight and His. I'm gonna work on returning the favor. I know that I'll have my moments and slip up every now and then, but the difference is that I'm in a better head space. </div>
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Thanks for hanging in there with me and for keeping me lifted up during this difficult time. I've learned a lot about myself and my God, so the struggle was worth it. It's not over but I'm headed back in the right direction... I hope you'll stick around for the ride.</div>
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covered by His grace,</div>
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pVI</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-22689463267082532662012-12-31T23:46:00.000-04:002012-12-31T23:49:10.227-04:00So, 2012... it's been real!<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I'm about to give this year the "deuces" and welcome 2013, I'm thinking back on the last 364 days. Towards the end of this year, I slacked-off in blogging and I'm disappointed with myself about that. :o( 2012 has all but destroyed me emotionally and some of the aftermath is following me into the new year... but I was also able to check several things off my bucket list. God is still real and His grace will continue to carry me through. </div>
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Thank you for your presence here--I truly appreciate it! :o) My intention is to get back into the swing of things here on the blog, so stay tuned. And I pray that 2013 is filled with the best that God has for you. Happy New Year from Holy Hotness by pVI!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://photo.elsoar.com/wp-content/images/Happy_New_Year_2013-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://photo.elsoar.com/wp-content/images/Happy_New_Year_2013-1.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo credit: http://photo.elsoar.com</td></tr>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-1190644097032138132012-12-02T16:52:00.000-04:002012-12-02T16:52:10.017-04:00turning a page...<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a while, wow... I've missed you. :-) I've been quiet for the last couple of weeks for several reasons. I started off on a path to self-development and spiritual renewal which was going well... and then things started taking some interesting turns--not all for the best, I'm afraid. </div>
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I've been battling with how to handle some major 'possibilities' that have surfaced recently--two things, in particular, that I've spent years in waiting for. Both are of life-altering magnitude and I am just beside myself in trying to discern God's direction. </div>
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There's a level of selfishness that I've noticed in myself, though, and acting on it can completely derail everything God has done in my life up to this point. It scares me... that I have even considered taking this situation into my own hands, effectively flying in God's face--and then planning to beg for His mercy afterwards. Yes ladies and gentlemen: that is how you [plan to] <b>abuse</b> the grace of God. For the record, I neither recommend nor endorse my own [planned] behavior but I am just being <strike>open</strike> transparent with you.</div>
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It truly is disconcerting: contemplating things that I considered absolutely unthinkable before. The battle with our <i>flesh</i> (i.e. natural inclination towards sin) is legit, and I'm <strike>feeling</strike> understanding that now more than ever. The good thing is that I'm not alone in this. Others have gone through it, are going through it now and will go through it in the future. I love the way Paul consoles and enlightens us about this struggle in <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NLT" target="_blank">Romans 8</a>:</div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span class="text Rom-8-5" id="en-NLT-28083"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>Those
who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but
those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that
please the Spirit.</span> <span class="text Rom-8-6" id="en-NLT-28084"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>So
letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But
letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.</span> <span class="text Rom-8-7" id="en-NLT-28085"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.</span> <span class="text Rom-8-8" id="en-NLT-28086"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="text Rom-8-9" id="en-NLT-28087"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. </span></i><i><span class="text Rom-8-12" id="en-NLT-28090"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>Therefore, dear brothers and sisters,<sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-28090e" title="See footnote e">e</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NLT#fen-NLT-28090e" title="See footnote e">e</a>]</sup> you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do.</span> <span class="text Rom-8-13" id="en-NLT-28091"><sup class="versenum">13 </sup>For
if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of
the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature,<sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-28091f" title="See footnote f">f</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NLT#fen-NLT-28091f" title="See footnote f">f</a>]</sup> you will live.</span> <span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092"><sup class="versenum">14 </sup>For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children<sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-28092g" title="See footnote g">g</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NLT#fen-NLT-28092g" title="See footnote g">g</a>]</sup> of God.</span></i></blockquote>
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<span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092">I hope to be driven by God's voice and filled with His spirit in all that I do, but I can't do it alone. </span><span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092">So I'm asking for your prayers as I close out 2012, and seek to open a new chapter of my life in 2013. Thanks in advance, and stay tuned!</span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092"><br /></span>
<span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092">be blessed,</span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-14" id="en-NLT-28092">pVI</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-44254629327235003482012-10-26T01:10:00.001-04:002012-10-26T01:10:59.043-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY: Conversation PieceHap-hap-happy Friday to one and all! Just wanted to slide thru and fling a chune for you really quickly.<br />
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The vibe on deck is 'smooth'... smooth jazz, to be exact. Like dancehall to classic reggae, or nouveau flamenco to classic flamenco/Spanish guitar, smooth jazz is the younger, funkier sibling of classic jazz. There's nothing like riding on an instrumental groove that makes you bob your head like a bass guitar player... and that's who is being featured today.<br />
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Wayman Tisdale was a former NBA star-turned-musician; unfortunately, he passed away from cancer in 2009. But his music definitely lives on in smooth jazz pieces like this one. I first discovered his music back in 2005 on MSN music (an online radio service that was an early predecessor to Pandora), and I've been hooked ever since.<br />
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So enjoy the groove and let it take you right on out into the weekend!<br />
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be blessed!<br />
pVI<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-44476806152441298692012-10-22T23:19:00.001-04:002012-10-22T23:19:59.586-04:00On the Road Again...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hi all! I know it's been a while since I've been on and the Friday chunes haven't been flingin' as usual (so sorry). But it's for a valid reason: I am traveling at the moment. Some time away from the norm was <b>sorely</b> needed and I'm glad I could take it. </div>
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God has allowed me to undergo some serious personal development while away, and I am so very thankful for this opportunity. I am amazed at what I've been able to accomplish and I would encourage everyone reading to create a personal goals list, if you haven't done so already. There are some things that I've been wanting to do for years and now that they are all on a list, I am crossing them off in record time. It may be coincidence, but I really believe that there's power when you <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hab%202:2&version=NKJV" target="_blank">"write the vision and make it plain..."</a>.</div>
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So my hope is to post more regularly once I get back home. Please know that I haven't forgotten about you and that this period of personal renewal will become evident in my future content. Thanks for reading and for your prayers.</div>
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God bless,</div>
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pVI</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-87064016721004300322012-10-08T10:00:00.000-04:002013-07-09T18:59:34.243-04:00Patience in the cut<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The other day, I was waiting in the checkout lane for an
unreasonably long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why would I call
it “unreasonably long”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because I was in
the EXPRESS lane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The expectation is
that having “10 items or less” means that the line would move faster in
comparison to others that had more items, but not when I was in it at this
particular time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I don’t know what the hold up was, but others in the line
were pissed off with waiting and got quite vocal about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some comments were being made intentionally for
the cashier to hear and I’m sure that didn’t exactly encourage her to move any
faster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know what it’s like to be in a
rush and expecting to be in and out of the store, but I had nowhere in
particular to be this time so I didn’t join the mini-mob in getting bent out of
shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
There was plenty of time to kill while standing there so I
let my eyes wander around to the other checkout lanes. I saw a toddler sitting
in the front of a cart about 2 lanes over, and he intrigued me. Beside the fact
that cute babies make my ovaries do the cat daddy, his manner was what caught
my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was maybe just under a
year old; eyes bright and taking in the world around him while contently
sucking on his pacifier (a-la Maggie Simpson). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As young as he was, he had an aura of peace
around him… Dude was just chillin’ in the cut.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
What was so special about that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, I took it as a lesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah, I know that compared to me, babies got
life made--eat, sleep, poop, cry, repeat (in no particular order).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the Word tells me that I should take the
same approach because <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke%2012:25&version=MSG" target="_blank">worrying about life won’t do me any good</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Little things like waiting a
couple of extra minutes to buy some things are really NOT.THAT.SERIOUS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that I had money to buy what I
needed easily overshadowed the inconvenience of a slow-moving line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
By the time I made it to the register, the cashier’s shift
had ended and she had to switch off with the next one—just my luck, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The express lane nazi directly behind me saw
what was happening and expressed her displeasure with a ‘smart’ remark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just smiled and shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I waited patiently until the new cashier got
set up and greeted her with a smile, as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She heard some of the comments and was glad to see that not everyone in
the line was waiting to crucify her before she even started her shift. Even if
mine was the only smile she saw that day, I felt good that I could share a
little bit of Christ with her in such a simple way. Yup, as simple as that.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-90875733417109922752012-10-06T23:45:00.001-04:002012-10-06T23:45:20.091-04:00Tres Mil!!!Muchas gracias a todo mi gente! LOL I felt the need to channel my inner Latina because English just couldn't convey my excitement... My blog just clocked <b>THREE THOUSAND HITS</b>!!! Thanks, everybody... and praise God for giving me this platform to use for His glory. Gloria a Dios!!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-90563367923342605652012-10-05T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-05T08:00:14.219-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY - WindowHey, Hey, HEEEEY! Praise God for yet another Friday! I hope everybody had a blessed week. Mine started off on a less-than-ideal note, but I now know that I'm linking up with some girlfriends from college soon. So that made up for everything crappy.<br />
<br />
Today's chune is one of inspiration. It's even, dare I say, prophetic (cuz I'm preaching to myself)! Canton Jones, one of the OG's of "rhythm & praise", uses this song to declare God's goodness over our lives in the form of a window... Could be blessings, opportunities, favor, anything in that vein. And--like the proper church girl I was raised to be--receive it all in Jesus' name. Go ahead and do the same for yourself! :o)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
pVI<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-47995568558934989572012-09-28T20:46:00.001-04:002012-09-28T20:46:54.497-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY: Let it Out<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's the weekend once again, praise the Lord! Hopefully you had a
great week. Mine? Not so much. My job is causing me distress and I
don't know how to relieve it. I'm praying to God for some sort of
resolution... still waiting for that.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In
the meantime,
I've been making some great discoveries on Pandora and YouTube
suggestions. Today's chune is
courtesy of <b>Press Play</b>--a group that has a sound that's quite unique:
Christian electronica. That's right, ladies and gentlemen: this is perfect for clubbin' in Jesus' name! I'll be the first to admit that techno didn't take up <strike>much</strike> any of
my iPod until stumbling upon this. But it's def a banger and I crank this in the car when I need to get
super hype [i.e.
forget-to-keep-both-hands-on-the-wheel-because-they're-pumping-in-the-air-to-the-beat
kinda hype] on my way somewhere. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The entire track doesn't play out here but you can get a good workout with the sample. If you like this, def go check out the group for more bangers. Soooooooo, let's get's this weekend started <b>RIGHT</b>!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
God bless,</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
pVI</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-56372488331840752482012-09-21T09:00:00.000-04:002012-09-21T09:00:05.829-04:00Fling Chune FRIDAY - Rain<div style="text-align: justify;">
Welp, the weekend is back one mo' gain and I couldn't be happier to see it! This week has been one of the most intense at work so the down time is definitely appreciated.</div>
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This chune reflects one of my fave genres: instrumental. What I love about original instrumentals is that you can make up your own words, based on what the song is saying to you. Or, you can just skip lyrics altogether and bask in the raw essence of the music in and of itself. Flamenco guitar lends itself especially well to imaginative listening because of it's intense, yet organic nature. This isn't classical guitar but the style is more <i>nouveau flamenco</i>--think, smooth jazz to classic jazz, or dancehall to reggae (proper).</div>
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This piece comes from the fantastical guitarist, Jesse Cook. His catalog of projects is expansive and displays both versatility and skill in his craft. I honestly believe that among his many albums, I could literally play "eemie-meenie-miney-moe" to pick one and be absolutely elated with ear candy. This chune could be considered one of his signature pieces, stylistically: mellow, yet intense; contemplative, but still soothing. You know what? Just listen for yourself!</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7759181581545514761.post-73136888356481657712012-09-14T23:58:00.000-04:002012-09-14T23:58:27.348-04:00Fling "LAUGH" Friday: Things Black Folks Say At A Funeral Part 2What's good, everybody? I know that Friday is almost gone, but I had to slide a lil sumthin' up in here for ya! Most of my content, as of late, has been limited to chunes but don't worry--this isn't slowly turning into a music blog. With all the crazyness going on in my life, I haven't had time to finish up the draft posts that are waiting for me to complete but I hope to get them out soon.<br />
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So, just to shake things up a bit, there will be no chune today. *booooo, hissss* Yeah, I know you're disappointed, but check it--I got jokes instead. Literally. I gon' fling summa dat medicine fo yuh soul a.k.a. laughter.<br />
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Gospel singer Lexi is just outta control! She recently ventured out into comedy and the girl is fire...this is one of her first ones but if you like this, def check out her channel (from the vid).<br />
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Happy laughing,<br />
pVI<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Copyright 2011. Reproduction requires author's permission. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.</div>peculiar VIrtuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02010905307262142271noreply@blogger.com0