The idea for Wonder grew in R.J. after she and her younger son, then 3, were at an ice cream shop next to a child who had severe craniofacial differences — and her son cried in fear. Wanting to avoid hurting the little girl’s feelings, R.J. rushed to leave, spilling milkshakes and unintentionally creating a scene as she did so. “As I pushed the stroller away, I heard the mom say in as sweet and calm a voice as you can imagine, ‘Okay, guys, I think it’s time to go,’ ” R.J. says. “And that just got to me … what could I be teaching my children so they could understand how to respond better next time? I was disappointed in myself. I started writing Wonder that very night.”..
Nothing is stronger than gentleness.
“My mom gave me unconditional love,” says R.J. “I think that’s the one thing we can really do for our kids. Not to say that we have to be blind to their little quirks and faults, but it helps you in life.” Julia agrees, but adds, “I think some people confuse unconditional love with spoiling. None of my kids would think I have a problem with that distinction. I do love them unconditionally, and I try, when they do something wrong, to say, ‘This doesn’t change the amount of love in this house for you, but you’ve got to do your homework.’ Because I think that also makes a child feel safe.” The lesson is clear: Put kindness first, and the rest will follow…”
Wonder | Behind-the-Scenes Interviews – YouTube
Wonder Behind the Scenes – An Important Message (2018) | Movieclips Extras
Wonder [A Child’s Sense of Wonder]
True Stories
‘Wonder’ is real life for these two families By Jacqueline Howard, CNN Updated 8:39 PM ET, Sun November 19, 2017 cnn.com “…Although Auggie’s face and everyday experiences are imaginary, the lives of the some 600,000 individuals who have been diagnosed with a craniofacial condition in the United States are very much real — and 7-year-old Shane Vysocky and 13-year-old Emily Merrill are among them…
There’s beauty in everybody’
All in all, “Wonder” might shed light on how for children with craniofacial conditions and their families, social and emotional support have become an important part of medical treatment…”
I am Auggie Pullman by CCA Kids – YouTube
WONDER OFFICIAL TRAILER 2 | “AUGGIE” REACTS
Bringing ‘Wonder’ to Cleft and Craniofacial Patients and … – YouTube
Event helps kids with facial deformities feel ‘normal’ – YouTube
The reality of living with facial deformities – YouTube
My philosophy for a happy life | Sam Berns | TEDxMidAtlantic
TEDx Talks
Published on Dec 13, 2013
Never miss a talk! SUBSCRIBE to the TEDx channel: http://bit.ly/1FAg8hB
Just before his passing on January 10, 2014, Sam Berns was a Junior at Foxboro High School in Foxboro, Massachusetts, where he achieved highest honors and was a percussion section leader in the high school marching band. He also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. Sam was diagnosed with Progeria, a rare, rapid aging disease, at the age of 2. He is featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Life According to Sam, which premiered on HBO on October 21, 2013, 2 days before his 17th birthday.
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual
How do you define yourself? | Lizzie Velasquez | TEDxAustinWomen
Sal: While watching the movie, I was personally touched and started reflecting my own “personal challenges” growing-up as a kid. I was teased and bullied at times just because of being “different” in various ways. For example, I was “bullied” and teased because I look “oriental” . Peers would start pretending to do “karate” . I would get teased because of my “chubby cheeks” (one of the reasons to start “working out” and still to this day). I had a surgical line on my tummy and would be asked “what’s that?” (still being ask to this day!). I decided to do a blog , so I don’t have to constantly explain my appendicitis surgery that went “wrong” 😦 => Medical: Natural Alternatives to Appendicitis Removal? goodnewshealthandfitness.wordpress.com . I even started to search on ways on how to “hide” (e.g. would apply scar cream) or “get rid of this ” mark. Some people I met online explained to me just “own it” (as I watch the video above) as “scars” look “sexy” or it’s a reminder of how God got me through this “life challenge”.
Suicide Rates In America Are Up. By A Lot. – Newsy – YouTube
Newsy
Published on Apr 22, 2016 “Transcript:
The number of suicides in the U.S. has been steadily rising since 1999, especially among women.
Between 1999 and 2014, the overall suicide rate climbed 24 percent, according to a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s a rate of 13 per 100,000 people.
While rates for males remained higher, suicide among females rose 45 percent.
And among young girls between the ages of 10-14, the rate rose 200 percent to 1.5 per 100,000 people, though the number of suicides within that group still remained comparatively low.
Women ages 45-64 had the second-largest increase: 63 percent to 9.8 per 100,000 people.
The CDC report doesn’t go into what could be behind the change, but it’s worth noting the greatest increases happened between 2006 and 2014 — during and after a major economic recession in the U.S.
Counselors with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline are available 24/7 to help those in crisis. The number is 1-800-273-TALK.”
Ever thought about “suicide”? Why ? What was going on in your life that might’ve gave you that thought. You might be actually “currently” thinking of it right now? I thought of it “a lot” growing-up when I was in my “pre-teen” years. Why? There were many reasons (e.g. bullied, family-life, life overall, etc..). Here are some other similar related stories..
What Leads To Suicide – YouTube
Why Do People Commit Suicide? – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNgLrHGymYc
Seeker
Published on Jun 19, 2013 ”
Global suicide rates are rising. In order to understand what’s going on, and how best to prevent this trend from continuing, Laci examines the underlying factors that lead people to take their own lives.”
The bridge between suicide and life | Kevin Briggs
TED
Published on May 14, 2014 “For many years Sergeant Kevin Briggs had a dark, unusual, at times strangely rewarding job: He patrolled the southern end of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, a popular site for suicide attempts. In a sobering, deeply personal talk Briggs shares stories from those he’s spoken — and listened — to standing on the edge of life. He gives a powerful piece of advice to those with loved ones who might be contemplating suicide.
TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world’s leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes (or less). Look for talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design — plus science, business, global issues, the arts and much more.
Find closed captions and translated subtitles in many languages at http://www.ted.com/translate”
Why we choose suicide | Mark Henick | TEDxToronto
Sal: I’ve talked to some “friends’ out of suicide before , which I’ve learned to just “listen” and be always “open” for God to use me. However, it wasn’t like this all the time. During high school, I had 3 classmates (one was a former close friend of mine) from my class that committed suicide. It was very difficult for me back then and somewhat still to this day as I’ve wrestled with some “thoughts” of regret (see story of forgiveness) .
I witnessed a suicide | Joseph Keogh | TEDxPSUBehrend
Finding Hope?
I found “hope” when I got to college. Suicide thoughts became a non-issue for me as I found a personal relationship with God. My friends would tell me the “good news” and I saw a lot of joy and hope in their life, which drew me to want that same “thing” they had. I would later also get a “bigger” perspective of life by listening to other people’s “more” challenging life issues. I started to realize what I was going through was “less challenging” compared to others. I learned about the blessings I really had along, which I never thought about it until I reflected how much more “grateful” and “thankful” to God more of what I have despite the “challenges” I’ve faced.
Here are some other similar stories
Powerful Testimony | How God Saves from Suicide – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKOIXZKXqC0
Licy Be
Published on Jul 26, 2016 ”
A testimony of salvation and faith. Licy Be (www.licybe.com | @licybe) is now a Christian spoken word and rap artist from Kingdomcity in Perth, Australia. She has gone on to complete her Masters Degree in Applied Psychology and uses her faith and music to reach out to others who are broken and struggling with their mental health, depression and suicide.
Licy Be explains how God connects the dots in our lives and has a plan for us that is beyond our understanding. She also talks about how easy it can be to reach out to someone by faith and save a life.
You never know how your actions might affect the life of another person. God works in incredible ways and He desires to bring us closer to Him.
Suicide affects so many people, in fact 1 million people die by suicide each year. Licy Be is now on a mission in life to reach out to others struggling in order to show them that there can be hope in even the darkest of places.
A major focus of this testimony is to point people towards God, and services that are able to help at your time of need. If you need help right now, Licy Be currently partners with a number of suicide prevention and support organisations including Revolution Red & The Roar Effect (http://theroareffect.org), TheHopeLine (http://www.thehopeline.com), Youthline (http://www.youthline.co.nz), Lifeline WA (www.lifeline.org.au) and many more. It is intended that this testimony can be used as a tool around the world to raise awareness of suicide prevention via social media and other communications channels so anyone is welcome to share or use this video.
“
Mich. students chant ‘build the wall’ in viral video USA TODAY Katrease Stafford (Thursday, November 10th 2016) “…ROYAL OAK, Mich. — A viral video of middle school students at a Michigan school shouting “build the wall” during a lunch hour Wednesday has sparked outrage across social media, leading some to demand that school district officials take action.
The video, which has nearly 2 million views and more than 45,000 shares, shows a group of students leading the chant in the cafeteria of Royal Oak Middle School. The woman who posted the short video on Facebook, Dee Perez-Scott, said in a brief caption that the incident happened Wednesday.
“The taunts, the ‘Build that Wall’ with such bullying power and hate from children to children,” wrote Perez-Scott. “Just horrifying!”..”
This is sample of why “us” adults need to be careful on how we express our “political views” at home. Kids are watching our reaction to this political election and everything we do. I have a “young” teenager friend that came to my house wanting to bike one day as he shared how he was tired of his parents watching the “political debates”. Then another “friend” (college age) express similar feelings on how he was “tired” of his parents watching it too.
Others:
-Pro: Trump
Post-election racism makes students uneasy Solvejg Wastvedt · Nov 10, 2016 .mprnews.org “The day after the election, messages including “whites only”, “Trump Train” and the n-word were scrawled on a bathroom door at Maple Grove Senior High.
The district reacted by starting an investigation and contacting police. And the next morning, a parent told MPR News that her daughter found students smiling and handing out cookies, along with messages of acceptance posted on the wall.
• NewsCut: Maple Grove kids fight back against the racists
Reactions to Tuesday’s presidential election are playing out in schools around the state, with tension reported in some cases as students bring differing views to class.
The smiles and cookies after the racist graffiti in Maple Grove were a step toward healing divisions — but they certainly won’t solve a problem that is not unique to Maple Grove.
Students around the state are struggling with divisions that mirror the country’s deeply divided voting-age adults.
• Related: Trump victory spells uncertainty for Minnesotans feeling alienated by his rhetoric
East across the Mississippi River at Spring Lake Park High School, Principal Jane Stevenson wrote a Facebook post about a report of “disrespectful, inappropriate and racially offensive graffiti” on a girls’ bathroom wall. Pictures of it made the rounds on social media, and Stevenson condemned the act.
Stevenson said the police are involved and the district is investigating.
In an interview before word of the graffiti spread to media, Spring Lake Park band teacher Nora Tycast said she hadn’t seen an increase in racist incidents post-election, she said the school routinely struggles with racial tension.
“My colleagues and I see just a wide gamut of reactions from students, students that are really sad and scared, and students that are really excited and pleased,” Tycast said. “So on Wednesday morning we saw a lot of fist pumping, and really kids really feeling free to express their excitement and kind of their pride in the country in a bunch of different ways. And we also had some students that were a lot more subdued.”
It’s unclear how many incidents similar to the racist graffiti in Maple Grove there may be.
The Minnesota Department of Education says it’s received three calls about incidents of harassment in schools. MPR News looked into a report of white students intimidating Latino students at Jefferson High School in Bloomington. The district says it’s investigated the report and denies that physical intimidation happened.
But shy of explicit incidents, it’s undeniable that some students are dealing with anxiety. Administrators in several districts sent letters home encouraging civility and denouncing racism and harassment.
Amy Hewett-Olatunde, who teaches English Language Learners at LEAP High School in St. Paul, said all her students are immigrants or refugees, and many of them are fearful.
“Many of them think that they need to think about where to go, if they go home. If they don’t have a place to go home to, what should they do,” she said. “Their parents are also extremely fearful of what may happen in terms of retaliation.”
Higher Ground Academy, also in St. Paul, has a primarily African-American population. Teacher Catherine Eisele said she’s sensed fear among her students since the primaries.
“I had three kids come up to me yesterday like, ‘Am I going to get deported?’ like quietly in the halls, not in front of everybody,” she said.
But on Thursday in civics class, Eisele taught her students how the American government works — she’s teaching them how to debate ideas.
Her students have been split throughout the election on policies. For Lyla, a 10th grader, President-elect Donald Trump’s views don’t worry her too much.
“It’s not like he’s going to make every single decision,” she said. “He has a cabinet behind him, they’re going to help him make good decisions.”
Another 10th grader, Adar, feels differently about Trump, saying she’s afraid of an increase in hate crimes following the election.
“I am worried about his supporters,” she said. “Racism has existed, you know, for a long time in our history, but I feel like he brought all the racists out, all the sexists out.”
But Adar said she’s not worried about being deported. She’s been paying attention in civics class.
During his presidential campaign, Trump made comments about refugees from the Muslim countries, Mexican immigrants, and crime policy that have instilled fear in some minorities.
heard rich white boys at school say how funny it is that Trump got elected; it’s so easy to laugh when it doesn’t affect you#NotMyPresident
— shan (@shannessian) November 9, 2016
i feel so bad. i’m in the school bathroom listening to a girl cry because she is so terrified of being deported.
— katherine 💱 (@pockyprincess1) November 9, 2016
My cousin comes home and tells me kids bullied them at school today telling them to go home now Trumps president…
— Nav Singh (@NaV__SiNgH) November 9, 2016
My niece first response to election: “should i tell people at school I am not Muslim anymore?”
She is eight. #TrumpPresident
— Saba Ansari (@SabaBrazil) November 9, 2016
My little sisters friend has been bullied at school because of her race & partly because of this election….PLEASE educate your kids!!!!! pic.twitter.com/5oc8fwOxu0
— gwen (@miaatoledo) November 9, 2016
I told my child not to talk about the election or her family at school. She asked, “Does this mean Daddy can’t be trans anymore?”
— Saundra Mitchell (@SaundraMitchell) November 9, 2016
Trump supporters brutally attack gay man in California
Mike Anzalone | November 10, 2016 usuncut.com “…When Ball left the bar alone later in the night, Trump supporters followed him to an alley way and assaulted him, Ball said. The last thing he remembers before awaking bloody on the pavement was having a beer bottle smashed over his head. Friends took him to the hospital…”
White nationalist Richard Spencer punched during interview
By Paul P. Murphy, CNN Updated 7:13 AM ET, Sat January 21, 2017 cnn.com “…Video posted online by the outlet shows the white supremacist speaking to Washington bureau chief Zoe Daniel when he was interrupted by individuals off camera.
Spencer was answering questions on whether he was a neo-Nazi. He said he was not, and was then asked what the “Pepe the Frog” pin he was wearing signified.
“Pepe the Frog” is an internet meme so often used by racists and anti-Semites it was designated a hate symbol by the Anti-Defamation League.
As Spencer was speaking, a masked individual ran up, socked him in the face and fled. Spencer left, later tweeting there was, “no serious damage.”..”
November 13, 2016 | 8:21pm | Updated nypost.com “…President-elect Donald Trump said Sunday that Americans have nothing to fear from his incoming administration.
“I would tell them don’t be afraid, absolutely,” Trump told CBS’ “60 Minutes” when asked about the thousands of protesters from coast to coast who have taken to the streets since he became president-elect…”
Violence flares in Washington during Trump inauguration By Jonathan Landay and Scott Malone | WASHINGTON Politics | Sat Jan 21, 2017 | 7:58am EST reuters.com “…
Black-clad activists among hundreds of demonstrators protesting Donald Trump’s swearing-in on Friday clashed with police a few blocks from the White House, in an outburst of violence rare for an inauguration.
At least 217 people were arrested in the melees, police said.
The burst of civil disorder followed a fierce presidential campaign that ended in a stunning victory for Republican Trump over Democrat Hillary Clinton on Nov. 8 and left the country divided.
Many of Trump’s supporters traveled to Washington to cheer their new president on Inauguration Day. Tens of thousands of detractors are expected to march peacefully on Saturday.
In the violence, knots of activists in black clothes and masks threw rocks and bottles at officers wearing riot gear, who responded with volleys of tear gas and stun grenades as a helicopter hovered low overhead. …
Protesters and police said the violent activists were acting independently of organized opposition to Trump.
The Disrupt J20 group on Twitter said its anger was not directed only at Trump, and that it would also have demonstrated had Democrat Hillary Clinton won the election last November.
Not far from the White House, Bob Hrifko, a member of the Bikers for Trump group, said he was struck in the face with an aluminum chair when he tried to intervene in a scuffle involving police and protesters.
“We need more order. This ain’t right,” said Hrifko, who was bleeding from a cut under his eye.
….In Seattle, one person was shot in the abdomen during a demonstration at the University of Washington, the Seattle Police Department said on Twitter. Demonstrators gathered there to protest Trump and conservative commentator Milo Yiannopoulos, who gave a talk on campus, local media reported. ..
..” Washington Anti President Trump – Protesters Burn Limo Car & Fighting Police (COMPILATION) , from youtube.com
Connection to Post -Election?
He yelled ‘Get out of my country,’ witnesses say, and then shot 2 men from India, killing one By Mark Berman and Samantha Schmidt February 24 washingtonpost.com “..According to witness accounts, the gunman reportedly told two of the people who were shot — both Indian men who work for Garmin, the technology firm — to “get out of my country” before opening fire and had also used racial slurs during the Wednesday evening shooting…
The father of one of the people injured pointed to the election of President Trump, who has routinely described a threat posed to Americans from people outside the country’s borders, and pleaded with parents in India “not to send their children to the United States.”
The White House responded by calling the link to Trump’s rhetoric absurd, according to Reuters….
He reportedly came back into the bar and hurled racial slurs at the two Indian men, including comments that suggested he thought they were of Middle Eastern descent. When he started firing shots, Grillot, a regular at the bar whom Bohnen called “everyone’s friend,” moved to get involved…” Andhra Engineer Killed By US Navy Veteran First Indian Hate Crime Victim In Trump Era
“Published on Feb 23, 2017
An Indian-American IT engineer employed by a US company was fatally shot and his Indian colleague wounded by a white man who thought they were Middle Easterners and who was heard telling them to “get out of my country” at the time of the shooting.
India Today Television marks the entry of the nation’s most credible name in journalism – India Today into news television. Powered by a future-ready look and backed with the 40 year legacy of the India Today brand, the channel addresses the news consumption habits of an evolved digital-savvy audience while staying true to the journalistic principles of the India Today Group.
With a paradigm shift in terms of television workflows and technology, the channel sets a new benchmark with a differentiated look. Innovative content formats and multiple news updates on the TV screen give immediacy and choice to the news viewer.”
Pre 2020 Presidential Election
Man arrested after allegedly driving van into GOP registration tent
JON HAWORTH
Good Morning AmericaFebruary 9, 2020, 4:33 AM CST yahoo.com “..A man has been arrested after allegedly deliberately driving a van into a tent full of Trump supporters who were working to register new voters at a shopping center parking lot.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the Kernan Village Shopping Center in eastern Jacksonville, Florida, when a man, later identified by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office as 27-year-old Gregory Timm, allegedly drove a van through a tent where people were working to register voters. The driver narrowly missed several people in the tent and fled the scene after the incident by car…”
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Can you fill the blank? What does your name mean to you? Have you ever been called “some other name” that you believed?…from a “bully”? teased/make fun of?
I remember being teased back in middle school/junior high and was called many names that I started to believe. For example, my physical features (e.g. “big eyes”, “Yoda”, “big nose”, “shorty”, “terrorist”, “you look like the enemy” (Persian Gulf War at the time), racist remarks , sexuality, etc..) weren’t the same with the people around me-who does anyways? -God has made us all uniquely-beautiful-and different! Can you relate? Feel free to boldly share your story down below or email me too.
Anyways, I started to believe in many of these “lies”..
“…Hello, my name is regret
I’m pretty sure we have met
Every single day of your life
I’m the whisper inside
That won’t let you forget
Hello, my name is defeat
I know you recognize me
Just when you think you can win
I’ll drag you right back down again
‘Til you’ve lost all belief
My self-esteem just went lower and lower as I grew older. I would at times have “suicidal” thoughts and suffered depression. I went through a season where I even wished I was “white” like most of my peers. With all this, my hatred and anger grew, which I would keep to myself and was anti-social.
I slowly grew out of the lies starting my college years when I had a “spiritual awakening” (see personal testimony). My low self-esteem didn’t disappear overnight, but it slowly faded away as I grew in my faith and my found identity as a “child of Him (Heavenly Father)…
“…And I have believed them for the very last time…..
…Hello, my name is child of the one true King
I’ve been saved, I’ve been changed,
And I have been set free
“Amazing Grace” is the song I sing
Hello, my name is child of the one true King
I am no longer defined
By all the wreckage behind
The one who makes all things new
Has proven it’s true
Just take a look at my life
One last thought is we need to be careful what you put above God (e.g idols). I used to struggle with this (e.g. sports, music, celebrities, etc..), which I can share the “negative effects” on another blog topic. This will affect one’s identity, which will give you a false belief.
*NOTE: I’m not trying to be the “angel” (righteous) here, but I’ve had my share of being the “devil”. I’ve teased others too or said things that might’ve “offended” them, which some has boldly reminded me. If I have and I don’t know it, please forgive me and let me know (in person if possible or via email, phone, etc..) too! I want to learn from my mistakes.
There sits today in rulership of this fallen world order one who has grown ancient in evil, cunning in subtlety, and cruel in deceit. He waged the first war of the universe in the distant planet called heaven, and subsequently brought conflict to this little world we call earth as it spins on the outer edges of the milky-way galaxy. He filled all heaven with discord and the earth with death, and both with great sorrow. He deceptively challenged every transparent purpose of the Creator, and even coveted the throne of the Eternal, planning to either assume rule of the universe or if not, then to plunge it into chaos and ruin.
This menacing figure who has hijacked our planet well explains the presence of every conflict that disturbs our world today, every pestilence that afflicts humanity, every sorrow and pain and death that tortures the children of earth. Lucifer, the former covering cherub and one-time honorable prime minister of the angelic intelligences in Heaven, has become Satan, the great adversary of our smitten world. This powerful angel heads a vast army of unseen intelligences, the hosts of darkness who oppose in this world, every beneficent purpose of our Creator the Almighty God of the universe. He especially hates the Holy One who in great condescension assumed our human nature that He might by divine power destroy the works of Satan, conquer evil and lift the terrible sentence of eternal death from our fallen race.
To speak of a throne of evil controlling this world system is no mere figure of speech, it is a grim reality. And the occupant of that throne is no figment of anyone’s imagination. Jesus Christ ascribes to him the title of “prince of this world.” John 14: 30. The famed Christian apostle Paul describes him as “the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience.” Eph. 2: 2. Paul also warns us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood , but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness…” Eph 6:12 John the Revelator describes this foe as “the great dragon,” “that old serpent, called the devil, and Satan who deceives the whole world.” Rev. 12:9.
When the leader of revolt against the Eternal Creator was expelled from heaven, expelled along with him were many other angel intelligences who had yielded to his cunning sophistries and had joined in his unworthy rebellion. This world is today their singular abode. This is because that tremendous event, which rid heaven of the fallen hosts, was followed by the tragic fall of our first parents under Satan’s lies. This historic fall let loose legions of fallen angels to bend all of their efforts and genius over many thousands of years in the work of spoiling, corrupting and ruining the once noble human family, originally created to be the crown of God’s handiwork. A key element of the strategy to ruin humanity has been to lead man to blight and degrade the fair earth that was intended to be our perfect and eternal home.
The apostle Peter warns us “Be sober, be vigilant: because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 Finally, the inspired revelator says ” Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has but a short time.” Rev. 12:12.”
So…what “lies” have you believed? Feel free to share down below your thoughts of any of the content above. Remember, you not alone! Lastly, do you believe them still? Why or why not?
I watched the anticipating movie “Unbroken” the other day (CHRISTmas) with my parents (my grandfather was captured as a POW as a “Filipino” civilian and survived as a cook) and still absorbing the personal messages from this inspirational movie in this season in my life. I was first introduced to this real-life story (Laura Hillenbrand’s “Unbroken”) by Neil, pastor of Harvest Community Church (Fargo, ND) and host to a weekly morning Bible study-fellowship group I attend in Morris, who gave me to read and share with one of my friends (college student from Japan renter) years ago. Unfortunately, my renter wasn’t interested in reading this book, but was inspired by the story. I got more interested in this story when Neil shared about this book was going to be movie on facebook. I’ve been looking forward to this movie since this Spring and now anxious to share about it with others.
Zamperini’s life story has taught me many life virtues (e.g. perseverance, gratefulness, commitment, and forgiveness) in this point of my life, which I’ll try to share as many of them down below. One of them is perseverance, which the stories…
Unbroken Raft Scenes Louis Zamperini WW2 – YouTube
*After watching the sequel this evening (10.4.18), I reflect on this scene and God did answer Zamperini’s prayer through the Japanese boat that “rescued” Zamperini & his comrades from the raft.
Unbroken (9/10) Movie CLIP – Don’t Look at Me! (2014) HD
… he shared of what he endured during WWII is very inspirational. I’ve read many stories from that war, which has helped me to not complain and be more grateful no matter what challenges I’m facing in my life. The sacrifices many soldiers faced (including my own parents’ country-Philippines-> Filipino Military–Bataan Uncensored Paperback – December, 1991, a must read book!) during that war helped my generation to reap the blessings we have right now. It’s important to never forgot our own history (U.S., Philippines, and any other nation), so we won’t take for granted what we are blessed with.
“If you get me through this I swear I’ll dedicate my whole life to you. Please”-Louis Zamperini (from briandoddonleadership.com)
I made a similar promise to God (Heavenly Father) before giving my life to Him back in the winter of 1996. I went skiing at a ski resort (Andes Tower Hills in Kensington, Minnesota). I went down hill skiing with a bunch of college friends (international students) and wanted to show off, so I just jumped on this chair life not knowing how far and big the hill I would be down hill skiing at. Well, when I got to the top, I realize this was higher than I thought and already forgot how to ski. I haven’t gone down hill skiing for years (should’ve gone on the smaller hill or bunny hill to get some practice). Well, this would be called, “Pride before the fall”. There was no way down but to go with my skis, so I had to fall 4x or so to finally decided to walk (after feeling my knee really swollen or hurt). I went to the ER at the local hospital (Morris, MN) and was at the X-Ray room. The doctor took an X-Ray and left the room by myself. This was when I had my “first” BIG encounter with God. I was more concerned about the financial cost of the medical expense than what happened to me physically. I then just called out to God and told Him-“God, if your real. Heal me and I”ll follow You”. Well, the doctor came back and told me that I didn’t break anything, which would be the beginning of my journey of faith (see testimony) Ever made a promise (e.g. Matthew 5:37-“Let your yes, be “YES”) with God, family, friends, etc…? I challenge and encourage you to “follow-through”!
I read and heard many stories of the atrocities in World War II and many wars before and after. Even though this movie just showed one perspective of one American’s experience. The torture that he and many others out there is very “inhumane”. Unfortunately, we as a county didn’t learn from this and still use this to this day (e.g. Shocking cases in CIA report reveal an American torture program in disarray – Spencer Ackerman in New York Tuesday 9 December 2014 ) This is an embarrassment as a nation to this world as we “preached” against inhumanitarian acts of other nations (e.g. North Korea, China, Russia, Iran, etc..).
In my response to what our nation has done and even myself (I too have “wrong” people in different ways and levels due to sin)…”forgive them for they do not know what they do”. Zamperini’s story can be applied with what’s going on today (e.g. Ferguson-we need to forgive each other for the wrong that’s been done to one another). There are “good” and “bad” cops-same with any group of people. We can’t “judge” or “stereotype” (e.g. NOT all Somolians are “evil” as the movie “Black Hawk Down” might stereotype these people group) any group because of the actions of a “few” of a group of people (e.g. race, nationality, political party, religion, institution, etc..) The real “enemy” is satan and his cronies (demons) that try to deceive and divide the human race to “fight” one another. It’s God’s love that is shared in the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ behind the message of Zamerini’sforgiveness!
Is there someone out there that has hurt (e.g. abuse) you in the past? Just as Zamperini had one-the “Bird”-was a “bully” or “tormentor” while he was Prisoner of War. When Zamperini went home after the war, he was like many veterans that would suffer from PTSD. He would have nightmares, which I too had them at times growing-up for different reasons. Do you have trouble sleeping at night? Well, Zamperini started to sleep better after his “encounter” with God at a Billy Graham Crusade and forgave his “enemy” (abuser, bully, etc..). Have you forgave that individual(s) that hurt you in the past? It’s not easy, right? You can’t do it on your own because you need that strength from God alone, which I personally (e.g. my own bully story) got when I gave my life to Him.
Reviews
How True is UNBROKEN the movie?
Interviews
WWII hero and alumnus Louis Zamperini visits USC Annenberg class
USC Annenberg
Published on Mar 3, 2011
Feb. 23, 2011: World War II hero, Olympic runner and USC alumnus Louis Zamperini visited adjunct journalism professor Jeff Fellenzer’s JOUR 380 class to discuss his story of survival, perseverance and forgiveness.
Remembering the “Unbroken” spirit of Louis Zamperini
“Unbroken’s” Louis Zamperini: The Rest of the Story
After ‘Unbroken’ – Louis Zamperini ‘Captured By Grace’
Billy Graham Australia & New Zealand
Published on Jan 22, 2015
After his return from WWII, Louis Zamperini was tormented by the memories of what he had experienced. Post traumatic stress led to depression and alcoholism. About to lose his marriage, Louis went to a Billy Graham crusade in Los Angeles, in 1948 and gave his life to Christ.
Part 2-Sequel
UNBROKEN 2 Official Trailer (2018) Path to Redemption, Movie HD …
-Addiction
Improving our understanding of alcohol and drug addiction hazelden.org “..What counts is embracing that moment of clarity when we realize that our lives are a mess and that we must change. Or else. And then taking action. Zamperini changed his life, and in the next 60-plus years, his story has inspired millions of people to overcome the adversity of their personal demons.
A few days after he died, another story made headlines, this one in The New York Times. It was about alternatives to the “mainstream” approach to fighting addiction through 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
From new medications to advances in science to innovative therapy, the choices people struggling with substances have are more plentiful than ever today, including pathways that aren’t based on abstinence or faith in a higher power…”
SWITCHFOOT – You Found Me – Unbroken: Path To Redemption (Official Music Video)
Louis Zamperini at ’58 San Francisco Crusade – YouTube
Louie Zamperini: The Power of Forgiveness by Laura HillenbrandFrom – Posted on Dec 29, 2010 guideposts.org
Louie Zamperini’s story of survival and redemption will astound and inspire you.
“..On the second night, Graham asked people to step forward to declare their faith. Louie stood up and stormed toward the exit. But at the aisle, he stopped short.
Suddenly he was in a flashback, adrift on the raft. It hadn’t rained in days, and he was dying of thirst. In anguish, he whispered a prayer:
“If you will save me, I will serve you forever.”
… Over the raft, rain began falling. Standing in Graham’s tent, lost in his flashback, Louie felt the rain on his face.
At that moment Louie began to see his whole ordeal differently. When he’d been trapped in the wreckage of his plane, somehow he’d been freed. When the Japanese bomber had shot the raft full of holes, somehow none of the men had been hit….”
If you have read this book or watched the movie, curious-what was your famous line/quote/scene in the movie? why? what did you learn? How are you applying it in your life to this day?
“Movie theater in Oakdale, Minnesota where I saw the movie “Unbroken” with parents on CHRISTmas Day“
Book
Laura Hillenbrand’s Unbroken – Audiobook Excerpt
Unbroken A World War II Story of Survival Resilience and Redemption Audiobook 1
4:00 (Chapter 11) “No One Will Survive” (movie scene of Green Hornet crash)
4:38 (Chapter 12) Life Boats-1st prayer since a kid
4:41 (Chapter 13) “water” from sky (drinking)
5:07 (Chapter 14)” if drop of water to drink..I’ll dedicate” (prayed)
5:10-17(Chapter 15) Sharks (bomber shooting movie scene)
*a miracle (4x bomber swept through and missed the 3 guys on the raft)
Unbroken Summary – Chapters 15-17 – supersummary.com http://www.supersummary.com/component/content/article/50-plot-summary-of-unbroken?start=6
Chapter Fifteen: Sharks and Bullets. On the twenty-seventh day of their journey on the water, a Japanese bomber flies over. … Miraculously, it did not explode and a single bullet hit no one. Sharks … Louie managed to patch the bullet holes in the one raft that wasn’t totally damaged. … They were trying to attack Louie.
5:36 “Max” Death: Louis prayer promise
5:50 “Japanese” taking them (close to escaping to an island):given plenty of food (coconut, chocolate, etc..)
“can’t guarantee your survival after going to “massacre island”
5:59 “prison place”
PART IV (KWAJALEIN – EXECUTION ISLAND ) https://www.awesomestories.com/asset/view/KWAJALEIN-EXECUTION-ISLAND-Unbroken-Louis-Zamperini-Story
Chapter 18
6:14 interrogation (D, E. model of Bomber)
6:17 Kamura (Christian) kind, would give candy to them 🙂
https://www.awesomestories.com/asset/view/B-24s-IN-COMBAT-Unbroken-Louis-Zamperini-Story
August (been gone since May)
6:20-Biological test: Coconut syringe
*see
Aug 24th (interrogation)
decided not to be killed
Aug 26th 1943-Taken to Yokohama (Karamura never seen)
Chapter 15 “200 Silent Men”
6:30-saw friend from USC (Japanese traitor, navy interrogation camp)
Ifuna Camp
6:44-Japanese prisoner guard (Hirosei) had sympathy to POW’s and would “fake” beating.
http://www.thinkingchristian.net/posts/2011/08/unbroken-a-world-war-ii-story-of-survival-resilience-and-redemption/
“…At this point I want to take you on a different kind of flashback. Early in his captivity, Zamperini had received the risky grace of a Japanese prison guard who had greeted him with the discreet question, “You Christian?” Zamperini told him he was. The guard answered, “I Christian too.” This Christ-following Japanese soldier took every opportunity to secretly supply Zamperini and other prisoners with extra food.
Zamperini’s response to the guard’s question intrigues me, for there was nothing in his early history to suggest any church involvement. The way he had discovered he could run when he was a boy was by running from people he had stolen from, and from the law, for he was an inveterate thief. His criminal ways ended when he embarked on his running career in high school, but not because of any new moral insight—he just found a different route to satisfying his desires. So when the guard asked him, “You Christian?,” his yes answer probably had a lot more to do with culture than with spiritual reality….”
General Harris (escaped Corregidor occupation, captured in Indonesia by “natives’, etc..)
7:08 -Zamperini was found out to be an olympic runner (movie scene: forced to race)
7:10-green sauce injection (Mensaus was intended to be killed)
*see Biological https://www.facebook.com/groups/392960060797791/
-Garret (new P.O.W.) shares how he was in the same cell that Zamperini was at (17 others killed in that same island)
7:17 (sin suji-POW camp with American Red Cross regulations)
*fake, but a coal camp
7:21 (Chapter 21)
July 13th-Louis captured (same day mother sent a letter to Air Force commander to search for Louis)
7:32: Fortune teller tells Harris survived
*see https://www.facebook.com/SalPhotoVideography/photos/a.780611395287068.1073741907.443035202378024/930969090251297/?type=3&theater
7:43 “Kill all” (POW’s-5K Koreans) command-afraid Koreans would ally with Americans after Saipan lost (allowing bombers to bomb Japan)
7:51 “Doolittle raid” (escape plan cancelled due to warning of POW’s going to be executed for every escapee)
7:54 “Quack” found maps Harris hided in bed
was beaten for over an hour
Chapter 23 “Monster” (Bird)
7:57 Zamperini moved to a new camp
Chapter 24
8:16 “Bird”
8:33 Kano (compassionate Japanese guard…would tell guards to look away when POW’s were eating from the garden)
radio broadcast was only heard in South Africa (took 3 months to finally get to California due to misunderstanding of name and address)
8:37 (Chapter 25-B24)
8:48 Postman Calls (Louis alive)
B29 flying to taking pics (hope)
9:03 (Chapter 26)
Radio station changed broadcast …propoganda
(kept alive for propoganda -to embarrass America…serviced “American-style”-tempting-meal at a diner..movie scene)
Nov 27th-B29 Bombers came in bunches
9:29 “Bird” leaving (movie scene)…reign of terror over
Chapter #27-“Falling Down”
“KILL ALL” P.O.W.’s in Palawaan, Philippines…gasoline poured on soldiers in grave “massacre”….11 only escaped. 😦
American landing as false
CAMP NAOETSU http://www.northchinamarines.com/id35.html
9:38 “moved to another camp” due to bombing in Tokyo…witness bombed city as they transferred on a rail train to a snowy place
March 2nd 1945
“Bird” waiting for him
9:50
forced to clean pig place after being a “cleanliness” freak (used listerine after kissing girls)
10:06 (Chapter 29-200 punches)
U.S. Bomb raid by lone steel mill
Germany fell
naritsu
Louis leg healed to do coal work
Bird sick (fed bm)
10:24 moved to another camp to be “executed” (final order)
10:29 Louis holding beam in 37 minutes (movie scene)
826 B29’s raid
napalm being dropped
leaflets dropped to warn citizens to leave from the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
10:38 “Hiroshima bomb dropped (10x the light of the sun) “little boy” (tibbits) lead taste from his mouth melting from radiation emitting
Chapter #31
Hiroshima was hit by “chlorea”
one bomb hit the city (atomic-unfamiliar)
Aug. 9th 1945-Nagasaki hit by atomic bomb
“The Bird” left to prepare new camp after Louis had nightmares of him
Louis 22 bm’s
berry berry
teaching English to “bad eye” (How are you?.what the F*&% you care?)
no electricity
10:40 WAR is over
routine of walking to forrest
Aug 20th-white sky
10:52 asked POW’s to fight the “red” that took some island
announcement to bathe in river (movie scene)..engine came by (overcast sky)..torpedo bomber (American). Red code “war is over”
chocolate and cigs dropped off
pants (thought it was a man) fell from another plane (bomb cloud pic-Hiroshima-magazine) and more items dropped
Chapter #32-Cascade of Paint Peaches
10:57
wrote 700 POW’s here on sand to get planes to drop more products
11:07 U.S. Missouri-General MacArthur announced
132K POW’s (off all nations)
25% survived
37% americans died
1% of americans held by Nazi’s die
Cocoa dropped crashed and destroyed “Bird’s” office
Louis cleansed himself
Sept. 4th-date for POW’s to be transferred to Yokohama for evacuation
POW’s discovered a brothel while walking around
Fitzgerald (fingernails pulled, waterboard torture, etc..) asked for a train
Chapter 33 11:17
POW’s getting food and medical help
wasn’t listed in Red Cross list since he wasn’t listed by Japanese
143 lbs (still 17 lbs under his original weight when plane crashed)
Sylvia answered on phone (Mom)
sept. 9th 1945-mother’s day for Louis’ mom
American flag carried through entire wall (passed by American missionary to British POW in Australia??)
Unbroken Laura Hillenbrand (A World War II Story) Part 2
Meeting family and getting greeted
Part IV
Chapter 34 “Shimmering Girl”
convertible still there
3 years of CHRISTmas gifts in house
record playing of his recording (PTSD)
meeting fiance (apple)
30:52 -Chapter 35
Louis Zamperini’s Son Explains How God Healed His Father’s PTSD
Nightmares, story of Airforce airmen that parachuted and captured: put in a zoo cage for display
Louis drinking, public behavior,etc…
Chapter #36 50:00
4K of 5K convicted of war crimes
Kano (close to names of Japanese war criminals) was testified by soldiers (US) to be cleared
was about to write to POW soldiers..died of cancer
1:13:00 -Louis still drunk, fought with Cynthia, forbade Cynthia from going to church, thought God tried to trip him, etc..
*Good News Japan https://www.facebook.com/groups/468929606499068/
*more…http://smu.gs/1Bl61Ih
1:51 “This is your life” (Allen slipped in back, w/ CeCe, moved from New Mexico-plastic business) What he done was finally recognized…became an “open book” as Louis wasn’t mentioned.
1:54
Harris in Korean War (3/4 of his until died)
2:00 deaths of his brother (Pete, Sylvia-mother, etc..)
Bird died in 2003…never met
*peace…https://www.facebook.com/groups/639527079395556/?ref=br_tf
-Reviews
http://www.us-japandialogueonpows.org/UshioUnbroken.htm
but there are also many stories of kind, generous, compassionate Japanese, both military and civilian, who went out of their way to be good to POWs. So my readers’ reactions, whether positive or negative, are directed not toward the Japanese people as a group, but toward the specific individuals in the book.
I think the biggest reason why the book has not inspired ill-feeling against Japan is that Japanese war crimes are not the book’s theme or main subject. This is a story of survival, resilience and persistence, and the extraordinary power of forgiveness, as exemplified by one man, Mr. Zamperini. The emotion my readers express, more than anything else, is a sense of being uplifted and deeply inspired.
— When a book about Japan’s WWII history, especially one dealing with its war crimes, became a bestseller in the US, the first reaction from some Japanese people often is to question the accuracy of the content. Many reviewers in the US praised your thorough research. Can you describe how you went about researching for this book?
*Japan WWII https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.654965537895473&type=1
I was bullied for various reasons growing-up while attending Battle Creek Middle School from 6th to 8th grade.
It wasn’t such a big topic in the media back then, so I never thought of it much. I thought it was just part of life and didn’t see it as a social epidemic as it is covered in the media now. As I hear stories of bullying, I feel like what I went through was really nothing compared to the serious violence and abuse (both mental and physical) victims goes through nowadays.
Here are some “lite” stories of bullying I went through:
When I used to deliver newspapers for the local paper in St. Paul (Pioneer Press Dispatch), I hated going through certain parts of my neighborhood after school. Living by the middle school, kids would be coming out of school in groups and would walk by my route. I would find a particular “safer” route as I did it more, but when I first started, I ran into some really obnoxious peers at the time. For example, one time when I was delivering newspapers (PM edition), some group of kids started yelling “gook” or “chink” at me. They then would do the infamous popular “kung-fu”/”karate” moves at me. Being a “smaller” boy at the time and being one individual, I didn’t have a chance to fight them back. At the time, I reflected on some friends/neighbors (Vietnamese-Another neighbor and I loved watching Bruce Lee movies growing-up!) that offered my dad to have my siblings and I to learn Karate from them. During this and other times of being bullied, I wished my dad took the offer as I would’ve used karate on them! I just continued walking away and ignored them. I look back and wondered if I did know karate, what would’ve I’ve done. I had a lot of anger issues (due to family up-bringing and all the social pressures during that stage of my life) and probably would’ve got myself more in trouble!
Deep Thought:
However, I can’t imagine if I was the opposite-taller and built. They probably would’ve not even said anything like this and would be intimidated or just ignored me. What causes a group of people to team against or oppress an individual the deemed as “weaker” or “lesser”? Doesn’t this occur even amongst adults? (e.g. politically, religiously, economically, racially/ethnically, etc…) Sorry, getting too deep here, but what motivates one(s) want to “pick-on” another/other individual(s)? You hear it’s because a “bully” got “abused” (physically/mentally) by someone older (e.g. parent). Does this give them the reason to do this?
Is this the reason why movie goers are very fascinated with movie characters (e.g. Harry Potter, Marvel Comic Heroes, etc..) with special “powers”. I’ve heard from younger folks that they wished they had “special” powers and they would’ve used it on their “bullies”.
Another story was in the classroom at the school. I remember it vividly as it’s been a scar or was a traumatic experience at the time. I was sitting in a science class (Physics) and the teacher was gone. Several known “bullies” of mine started “gleaking” (lightly spitting) at me. Being a “passive-shy-weakling” at the time, I pretended to ignore them and just took it. What could’ve I done, stand-up and fight the taller-bigger guys than me? I was outnumbered!
Being “Asian”, I was stereotyped as a “bookworm” and I was a studious guy (ey, I got to college on a full-ride scholarship, so it paid off ;)) A friend (taller than me) and I were heading out after school ended. While I was heading to my locker, this “bigger-taller” boy closed my locker and told me to do his homework. I had some “boldness” (learned from watching t.v., like “Saved by the Bell“-I didn’t want to be like Screech-lol!) in me, so I told this guy “no”. He probably wasn’t expecting this, so he actually pushed me against the lockers and demanded that I do this. Fortunately, my “taller” friend stood-up for me and told this “bully” to leave me alone. Unfortunately, this “bully” was bigger than my friend, so this “bully” pushed him too against the lockers. I was very thankful for my friend and was more focused with gratefulness of my friend doing this for me than the “terror” of this bully. We were both shoved to the lockers so loudly that one of my teachers came out of his classroom wondering what all this noise was about. Fortunately, we were both “saved” by this “bully’s” rapture as we both walked out of school “safely” that day.
Due to my “multicultural” looks, I would be teased with various racist remarks. During the Persian Gulf War, a “friend” would tease me that I “looked like the enemy” (Arabic). This would go on even through college and beyond, which I grew to have a very lose self-esteem and was self-conscious about my “physical features” in various places. Due to this remark “way back then”, it effected me when 9-11 happened after my college years. I haven’t shared this with many people, but when 9-11 happened and watching on the news of “Arabs” or “Muslims” that “look-like” the enemy were targeted in America. I got scared and hid for a season. I was afraid to go out of my house during these tense times as I was afraid of getting “attacked” in retaliation of 9-11 (would find out later about the “truth” behind the attacks, which can be another story ;)).
A “Bully” Myself Once
I have to be fair and honest too in this blog post that I wasn’t always “bullied”, but I was also in the “dark” side too-“bully” himself! 😦 I’m not proud of this either, but I look back and probably was a “bully” in some instances because I was “bullied” myself. I felt like I had a position of power in some scenarios and abused them. For instance, I remember fighting this younger-smaller guy in elementary school. I still can’t remember why I did this. I pushed him around and nothing too violent, so I wasn’t too rough on him. 😉 Another instance, this individual in high school was so annoying and I had to “act” tough. I told him that we should fight after school, which he accepted. During class, I then began thinking that this individual will probably bring his “hommies” or “gang” friends and “jump” on me. I then told him “cowardly-humbly” that I decided I don’t want to fight, which he agreed..lol! I also had some instances where I teased people because they “look” poor or whatever, but I regret this because I too was in their shoes and don’t understand why I did this.
My parents immigrated here (St. Paul) from the Philippines in the early 70’s and we didn’t have much like many other immigrants residing in a “new” land. I remember one Christmas, we couldn’t afford a Christmas tree like many other “Americans”. We found a tree branch in our neighborhood while walking in one cold winter day, so we decided to take this tree branch inside and make it our “1st” family Christmas tree. We even decorated it and put ornaments that we just creatively made. My parents couldn’t afford the current trending shoes (e.g. Nike) those days, so I wore “Pro-Wings” from Payless Shoes Store (I’ve bought shoes still from this place as they have some good deals, but honestly-not very quality). Growing-up at that time (still I heard), students in school would just ridicule you with the brand or type of clothing-shoes you wore. I just got teased “left and right” back in elementary school for wearing these “cheap” shoes. Another similar instance was when I was wearing some “old-school” pj’s underneath my jeans with a hole. It was winter time and these “pj’s” were like my thermal underwear to keep me “extra” warm. I guess I would tease someone with this type of dress code. I felt like I was “worthless” at the time and it got worse growing-up through high school.
I actually feared going to high school after watching t.v. shows or movies on how “nerds” or “losers” (like me) were treated. Fortunately, folks in high school were a little more mature and it wasn’t as bad as I expected. I got teased a little (e.g. looks-physical characteristics) once in awhile, but I just had a very low self-esteem (due to factors in and out of school). I had some “suicidal tendencies” due to depression caused by many factors that I can share for another blog, but this is one of the effects people still face due to bullying.
I finally started going up-hill during my college years, which here is my story.
“Power of non-violence (e.g. Martin Luther King Jr., Ghandi, etc..) instead of retaliating with violence”
3
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you…”
In conclusion, I believe social support and communication or dialogue is very important to stop bullying! I really didn’t get this growing-up. I grew up in a very quiet-passive (Asian culture) family, which I never shared this with my dad, mom, and even my siblings (I shared one of my stories with one of my siblings the past year or two and they replied-“How come you never told us?”) . I just kept it inside of me like a volcano that was waiting to interrupt. My personal tip now is parents need to have an honest one to one dialogue with their child/children. This can happen over a meal time at the dinner table (get your kids to put their smart phones away, shut the television, etc..). If you read my story above, building self-esteem is very important to help “victims” of bullying overcome this stage or season in their life. As a former “victim of bullying” and “a bully” too, I want to help those in this category through social networking (e.g. Good News Sociology, Youth, etc…). How can we “work-together” in helping those out there?
” />![The Fall (Genesis 3)http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%203&version=NIV3 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”What is the ROOT of SIN ? - [Part 1] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRYotSp6wwM&feature=share&list=PLfotP9NdGXnbiva_msNjnbradohV6qE_-&index=5Good News Sinhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/189301851255458/http://www.openbible.info/topics/the_serpentPaul and the False Apostles (2 Corinthians 11 )http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2011&version=ESVBut I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. ......13 For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds....Good News Futurehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/146174885575513/ Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.](https://salphotobiz.smugmug.com/Animals/Wildlife-around/i-pG4ztqp/0/M/IMG_1664-M.jpg)
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