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nix-whythisfilm · 1 year

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15 Fantasy-based shows that I would recommend to anyone interested

As a hardcore fantasy buff, I cannot remember the number of Fantasy shows, movies and books that I have hoarded through the past two decades. The shows range from a variety of genres, but they all have some levels of fantasy fiction in them. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments!

The Witcher (2019)

The show is based on the books and the video games, unclear which inspired the other, written prominently by Andrzej Sapkowski and Lauren Schmidt Hissrich. The first season was directed and played out in a haphazard style that kept the suspense going, inspired by Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk. This high fantasy show is set in a pre-technology era with magic, magical creatures and plenty of violence. The show stars Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia for the first two seasons, with news of a changed actor in the coming seasons. The witcher has numerous perspectives that make it a compelling watch, along with the complex issues of that time addressed independently with the heart of the story being steady.

Having watched it belatedly, I found the direction of the first season mind-blowing, the details brought into the screen, and the storyline finally making sense with each episode. The characters are shown various levels of growth and evolution throughout the two seasons and so many little things that we can hook into. Not wanting to spoil much of the show for potential audiences, I would safely say it is a strict adult show but has numerous life instances shown that makes it one hell of a watch. Do look out for the ladies of the show who are all stunning and leave you wanting to see more strong female leads!

The Shadowhunters (2016)

Again, this is another show based on the book series The Mortal Instruments, written by Cassandra Clare. As someone who hoards her books, I was deeply upset about the show. But once I read up on why the show ended up that way, it made sense. The show was juggled around by channels a lot, with each season being directed by different people, but the story as a whole was approved by the author.

So as someone who read the books and then watched this show, I would say that the show can be viewed as an alternate reality of what was in the books. And as someone watching the show with no prior bias or idea about the Shadow world, it is a good watch. The show has vampires, werewolves, demons, mentions of angels, and especially angelic warriors. The main character is pretty stereotypical, but the others absolutely steal the limelight as the story progresses. Though it is not accurate to the books, the characters have been woven very well to not disappoint about the show's end. As a special mention, Harry Shum Jr. was an absolute stud in the show, as was his character in the books.

Stranger Things (2016)

As a running show in 2022, this show had an elaborate fanbase for the various trends in America over those years that have been very neatly captured though it is unrelated to the main story. The story involves a missing boy in the first story, with the following seasons covering for the various repercussions that come after that first season. While the show has no touch of modernity and is very era specific with everything, it is set in a small town facing so many things that it was not meant to. With numerous characters, all teenage and those who act their age, the show's fantasy foundation is based on Dungeons and Dragons.

As someone who watched the show only this year, I deeply regret not having watched it earlier. It had an excellent storyline, genuine characters and sensational direction by the Duffer brothers. This show felt like a throwback after the many shows I have watched, with it being old-school style. With so many characters barely in their teen years, the performance on screen is astonishing and unimaginable bearing in mind the storyline of the show. With Millie Bobby Brown as one of the main characters, this show is a strong recommendation.

Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

This show has been all over the internet since it began and the fandom brought together fans from every possible age. The merch is everywhere, and the drama about the last season was everywhere too. And as someone who mostly watched completed series to avoid the anxiety of waiting for the next episode, this show was a lot. It spanned nearly a decade, and we can see the growth and the decline of some significant characters in the show. The unprecedented fantasy element in this show was the dragons, tree spirits and the main antagonist, the night king.

Is the show as good as the hype? In my opinion, absolutely. The story is so well written with such requisite considerate details for each individual in the story. George RR Martin's story was followed as closely as possible till the second season, however, the following seasons were shot with the novels as a whole rather than one novel per season. I believe that the reason most people were upset by the end of the show was that the story was given an outline by the writer, but written by different directors. While stories have been continued by different people in many instances, the ending felt like it went in an inexplicable direction, considering that the story was built with high expectations of a climax. In all honesty, the show spoke of a lot of things, but something that changed it for me was the amount of nudity. Unexpectedly, it did not seem vulgar after some time, as people like to assume but rather normalized bodies of every kind and did not discriminate against people in general. It even helped my body dysphoria and made me feel human.

Teen Wolf (2011)

The show is old news, I know. It was such gossip for a long time about being a chick show with mainly teen girls watching it for the good-looking guys as some of the main characters. Does this rumour have substance? Yes, it comprises some good-looking actors focussed on the previous era's standards for beauty and trends. But is it baseless and unentertaining? Lord no. It was such a surprise when I watched the show, that issues far more advanced from that time were normalised, and that it was not mentioned anywhere. It speaks of family relationships, friendships, and the importance of trust and diversity. And for once, the characters that were homosexual were not used for queer baiting.

The humour was my favourite bit of the show, and it rarely had any toxic positivity or toxic relationships. The show had genuine characters who were not brought in for the plot and then ripped off; they even had a credible plotline with varieties of antagonists. The characters were not specifically black or white. The fantasy elements were werewolves (obviously), mutated versions of other transforming creatures, banshees, dryads, kitsunes, and so many more. Thankfully it had no vampires because I cannot fathom how they would fit into this show. Honestly, this would be a 10/10 show, with no regrets of watching it after finishing the series.

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018)

Honestly, this is a highly adult-rated show, not just for the explicit scenes and heavy gore, but also for the questionable morality shown throughout the seasons. I don't refrain from much, but this show was dark and pretty explicit in terms of violence both physical and mental. The plotline seems simple and apparent in the first few seasons, but if we pay attention, it speaks of many things. The show deeply spoke of family relationships, attributes of trust and how most societies work. They're not simple, but they can be functional. The fantasy elements are highly based on satanic beliefs with witches, demons, angelic believers, eldrich terrors and more.

The show was different for me but also familiar. It is attached to the Archiverse and has mentions of Riverdale, with this show set in Greendale. The story has its uniqueness of the main character being half-witch and half-human. It was interesting how all the characters were inherently petty and childish but were also mature and deeply self-aware. There are innumerable instances of redemption and many morally grey arguments. P.S. the black cat was my favourite character.

Shadow and Bone (2021)

This series too was based on a book series Grishaverse written by Leigh Bardugo and is very well directed. The show stars Ben Barnes and numerous actors who have done excellent work in the first season. The second season is yet to come out, but the cinematography is beyond imagination. Often, people who read books feel that the show wasn't as good, but then the characters might be up to it, but the CGI is a letdown. But this show has a CGI enough to compete with The Witcher. The characters are varied, with one society being excessively civilized in a pretentious form of government, and the other is chaotic but thriving for hustlers. And when they all come undone, the characters work to find their place.

The book, when I attempted to read was extremely challenging. In truth, it was a little everywhere and made little sense when I tried the first few chapters. While the show is much quicker, the confusion is evident in the series as well in the beginning. The show, in a change of pattern, inspired me to read the book series. It also showed elitist attitudes, racism and discrimination very well. The roots of the show give an aura of being set in Russia. The characters are challenged with their belief system, which I liked because that is something about the youth years that is rarely highlighted in many shows, morality and personal values.

The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017)

Telecast a little over half a decade, this show became news due to the never-ending drama and the wave of memes it brought on that still runs. The show prominently has three prominent characters-Elena Gilbert, Damon and Stefan Salvatore. Yet another show based on books, the series was ten times better than the books. Does it have a lot of drama? Yes, but the story gets more nuanced and actually interesting after the first few episodes. The drama never ends, but it has substance and even gets entertaining after a point. And for the people who like drama, this show is a gold mine. The fantasy elements don't stop with vampires and werewolves but also have witches, hybrids, sirens, and psychics.

It's a lot, and not for the light-hearted, to go through all the seasons and still have the interest to watch through the sequel series. But for people who are into series and long-standing shows, it unquestionably gives you something to hold on to. As someone who read the books, about three series written by the original author L. J. Smith. The books were widely different from the show but had most of the same characters in the show. The book began to irk when there were endless deaths yet they kept coming back to life through ridiculous circumstances. The show, however, made it a little more credible, even though it is highly fiction.

The Originals (2013)

Aired over half a decade this show is a sequel to the Vampire Diaries. It has continuation stories of characters initially antagonists in the previous show, featuring mainly the Mikaelson family. It has pretty much the same fantasy elements but also covers some more nuances into the witch world, exploring nature spirits and more. This show is more into the detailed family drama of this complex family and doesn't require having watched the vampire diaries. While the show is much drama, it also has a lot of violence with the main character being extremely questionable with his morality.

In some ways, I liked this show way more than the Vampire Diaries, considering how it was not based on characters surviving in high school with ridiculous supernatural challenges. While watching the vampire diaries is entertaining, this show had many contradicting core values that stuck. Their values and beliefs on what a family is and the constant struggles they face together. But the evolution of the main characters was the palpable part of the show, which became much more evident and intriguing. A little spoiler, with some of the main characters being centuries-old vampires, the perspectives are always gripping and plausible.

The Legacies (2018)

Another sequel to the series, this series is a direct sequel to the Originals. While the plot is based on teenagers in an unusual school for supernatural folk and people of this decade. The characters are direct descendants of the previous two shows, so fair warning to not watch this before those two if you like no spoilers. This show is quite different compared to those two, with a different pace and drama. But it does have a ridiculous amount of fantasy characters. This show decided to bring in the history of nearly every myth possible and question its reality. While the storyline is questionable with so much going on for the new audience, the base stays constant while connecting to people who watched it after watching the prequels.

While this was a completely different scene from the intense prequel shows, it covered a lot of good current issues in the series that were not given much importance in the previous shows. The importance of mental health is given a huge priority in this show, with various characters facing so many issues and taking it positively that they require professional help. The ending of the enormously lengthy story was a little questionable but as someone with a penchant for fantasy, this show covered a wide spectrum from greek muses to gargoyles. It was wild, but it was given a full circle ending with so many plots that began through all the previous seasons and shows.

The Wheel of Time (2021)

Having just finished watching this show, I am still in awe at how spectacular the show is and cannot wait for the following seasons. Based on the books written nearly three decades ago, the series is mind-blowing having the characters woven so neatly (pun intended). The show is based on magic and involves the fight against darkness. It is a classic storyline, light against the dark, but the interesting facet is that magic users are only allowed to be women. Something magnificent was the way the music albums were made for this series. Sure, many shows make music for the show specifically, but this show has music that feels like music for the soul of the story. The cinematography also has graphics of such detail and beauty whenever magic is shown on screen.

Something I deeply liked in this show was the characters and the music which synced with it. The way their fates are all intertwined is fascinating to watch through the episodes, and it is understandable how they closely depended on each other with their various backgrounds. The colours and architecture in the show are beautiful beyond imagination, and the story is quite compelling. It has chosen one trope that seems cliche, but it also has things in the story that are not cliche, and bonds that are heart-wrenching.

Merlin (2008)

It is an old show, and the fantasy elements are a little over the head, but it is a long and tedious watch that is worth it. It's a one-time watch, especially if you want to watch something half distracting and half interesting. While there are many versions of the story of King Arthur, Merlin and Morgana, this show gave a plausible story in a way the story came together. The show starts with the characters all in their youth, new to each other and not having known each other. There are classic English fantasy elements in the series that are dragons, magicians, dryads, and nature spirits.

It was taxing in the beginning, with it being an old show and particularly slow-paced. But once I adjusted to the pace, the show was good. It was thorough with the plot, all the characters are given a detailed perspective and storyline and have very old-school story narration. Though personally, I believe some of the characters were signed off unfairly, the show went in an unexpected direction after a point. It was not until after I finished the show that I missed its familiarity, its antique theme music, and the slow life that is shown on the show. We rarely see any shows today that are slow as a whole. Something I have repeated but will say again is that the old-school characters and the lack of toxicity in their personal lives and twisted relationships are very light and good for the heart and mind.

Wanda Vision (2021)

As a huge Marvel fan, this show was my first watch of this era of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is the story of Wanda Maximoff after the events of Avengers: Endgame. It begins off-key and makes no sense in the beginning as to why the narrative is as it is going. But as someone who has been into Marvel for over a decade now, I cannot guarantee what this show looks like to people who have no idea about Marvel and the main character. But then again, a lot of the background is given in bits to the story. The fantasy and CGI are mindblowing with the entire power play that comes into focus at the end of the show. While the show is mostly fiction and fantasy, it has a lot of science fiction as the basis.

While I have my prejudice against the characters in the fandom from previous movies, Wanda was a personal favourite with the potential her character has in the comics. Her fashion sense stuck with me, and so did her spirit. With the number of tragedies in her life, this show gave a lot more perspective into her story than any previous movies could have. She was a strong woman, and I significantly looked up to her.

Loki (2021)

This was one of the few shows on Marvel that was more mythology and fantasy than science fiction. While there is plenty of science fiction in the show, Loki was one of the favoured antagonists in the fandom, with many who admired him for his never-tiring spirit and mischief. He was the God of Mischief in Viking mythology but also someone with an explanation of his existence in science fiction. The story moves in a direction that no one predicted him in, where he gets incriminated as a criminal by the time authorities. It is a fascinating narrative for him to be in the situation that he is in. With not much that can be said without spoiling the show, I will say that it is witty, humorous, brilliant, and thoroughly scary at the ending it leaves you with.

As someone who thought Loki was brilliant, an idiot in his circumstances for the things he wanted, but brilliant in his own style, this show was highly entertaining. The god of mischief trying to do right by the time authorities is ironic but a good watch. Does this show need any information about the Marvel Universe for new watchers? Not really, but it helps to make sense of his morality and understand his character that evolved through the eras. All the shows in Marvel Phase 4 are stunning, but this was one personal favourite.

Moon Knight (2022)

This show was entirely alien to me when I began, with no previous introduction to the characters or this supernatural universe. This show is highly based on mythological fantasy rather than science fiction, but not as fantasy based as the other shows in this list. The show stars Oscar Issac as the main character, and it is quickly revealed that he is enduring a mental health condition, which he uses to his benefit. It is set in Egyptian mythology and modern adaptations of what those myths could mean in today's world.

The show was different from anything that was previously in the MCU. It had a struggling main character, phasing in and out of his episodes and through situations. In all honesty, this show was a little above my head. Not very believable in my eyes, but a good watch nonetheless. It could be the various Egyptian mythology stories I have devoured through the years that were nearly not covered sufficiently in the show.

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cfmysteries · 1 year

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living life like i'm in a play in the limelight, i want to stay i know i've got a big ego i really don't know why it's such a big deal, though

BRAT. amadelle. SILVER. nic nim. QUEEN BEE. lauren sanderson. CHOP DICKS. delilah bon. CYBER SEX. doja cat. PINK PONY CLUB. chappell roan. NOT YOUR BARBIE GIRL. ava max. PRIMADONNA. marina. COCONUTS. kim petras. HOME IS WHERE THE HELL IS. sarah saint james. LOTTA TRUE CRIME. penelope scott. IT’S NOT MY FAULT. princess nokia. 07 BRITNEY. chelsea collins. BUILD A BITCH. bella poach. NOT INTO YOU. brooksie. FREAK. doja cat. SLUT MONEY. zand. PROM QUEEN. molly kate kestner. VEGAS. doja cat. GIRLS IN BIKINIS. poppy. I LOVE IT WHEN HOT GUYS CRY. link lauren.

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#❪ ⋅✶ ˖ ࣪ ‹ playlist ❫#hello it is me back again with another obnoxious playlist #i say this literally every time but this may be my new favorite one gfdgjk

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wags-confessions · 2 years

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How do we not know Lauren isn’t in Dubai with him? I mean it’s not like she’s actually going to post it anymore. She seems to have chosen to be quite private which is fair enough, the limelight isn’t for everyone. What I’m trying to say is just because she isn’t posting that she’s in Dubai doesn’t automatically mean she isn’t in Dubai

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foldercompilation · 3 months

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Self-searching: Stella Chamberlain for Marie Claire Magazine, photographed by Maya Sørensen. January/2024.

Stella Chamberlain, at 19, is already a name echoing in the corridors of the entertainment industry. Born in Spokane, Washington, this young prodigy not only enchants on the silver screen but also captivates as a singer, influencer, and ambassador for iconic brands like Celine, Dior, and Chanel. Behind the glamorous aura lies a story of determination and diversity that defines Chamberlain's journey.

From early years, Chamberlain showed signs of an undeniable artistic calling. Her first steps on the school theater were just the prologue to a journey filled with successes. Over time, her natural charisma and acting skills led her to audition for Disney series, solidifying her place as one of the rising stars on the TV scene.

Chamberlain's success knows no bounds. Her latest project, the film "Anyone but you," has been captivating audiences and critics alike, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's most promising young actresses. With her compelling interpretation, she dives into the depths of her characters, delivering memorable performances that resonate beyond the screen.

Not content with just mastering the limelight of cinema, Chamberlain also shines as a fashion and beauty icon. As an ambassador for renowned brands like Celine, Dior, and Chanel, she epitomizes the elegance and sophistication that define the haute couture universe. Her presence on the runways and in advertising campaigns adds a touch of grace and style to every project she's involved in.

Chamberlain's artistry is not limited to screens and catwalks alone. With her debut album, "Eyes Wide Open," she delves into the world of music, showcasing a versatility that transcends artistic boundaries. Moreover, her background in ballet lends a unique grace and elegance to her performances, further elevating her status as a true all-around artist.

Born from the union of two distinct cultures, Chamberlain embraces her British and Korean heritage with pride and grace. Her global identity is reflected not only in her appearance but also in her art, enriching her performances with unique cultural nuances and a profound understanding of the world's diversity.

Stella Chamberlain represents more than just a rising star; she embodies the harmony between talent, determination, and diversity. Her presence in the entertainment industry is an inspiring reminder that there are no limits for those who dare to dream big and work tirelessly to achieve their goals.

Production Credits:

Photography by Maya Sørensen.

Fashion Editor Lauren Knudsen.

Styling by Katelyn Gray.

Makeup by Allan Avendaño.

Hair by Clayton Hawkins.

Model Stella Chamberlain.

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worldofwardcraft · 4 months

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Made for television.

January 8, 2024

When people elect a representative to Congress, they expect someone who will propose and support laws for the good of the country and the legislator's constituents. Sadly for many Republican voters, what they get instead is an attention-seeking clown who thinks public service is a reality TV show.

Case in point: Florida congressman Matt Gaetz (pictured above at his usual place of business). The son of a prominent and wealthy former Florida Senate leader, Gaetz was elected to the US House in 2016 and immediately began engaging in stunts designed to get his moniker on social media and his mug on Fox News.

There was the time he showed up on the House floor wearing a gas mask during a COVID relief vote. There was his much-publicized bill to abolish the Environmental Protection Agency. And there were his many guest shots on Fox defending Donald Trump. By 2021, Forbes calculated he had made "at least 179 appearances since he was sworn into office in 2017."

Plus, of course, there was his high-profile participation in removing Kevin McCarthy from the House speakership. For many of his fellow GOPers, that was the final straw. Said Florida representative Carlos Gimenez of Gaetz, ��He’s about how many cameras he can get shoved in his face." Senator Markwayne Mullin (OK) groused, “All of a sudden he found fame because he opposed the Speaker of the House. And he was never going to leave." McCarthy himself remarked, “Matt’s goal was to be the TV congressman.” Meanwhile, Time magazine described the Florida congressman as "a show horse more interested in booking TV hits than passing legislation."

But limelight-hungry Gaetz is not alone. Khale Lenhart, former chairman of the Laramie County (Wyoming) Republican Party, spells out why.

Modern political campaigns have given rise to a new breed of politician: the performance artist. This type of candidate is known less for their ideas or qualifications and more for their attention-grabbing antics. Whether it be through bombastic statements or through policy proposals with no basis in reality, this type of candidate is far more concerned with performance than policy.

Which explains the likes of Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert, Paul Gosar, Elise Stefanik and dozens more Republicans polluting the House. Says The New York Post, for them, "Congress is merely a platform for the development and enhancement of a personal brand, not an institution to honor and serve." In short, they're not really lawmakers, they're just entertainers constantly in search of (as CNN's Jake Tapper put it) "clicks and likes and Fox hits."

#mattgaetz #it'sallperformative #houserepublicans

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winningthesweepstakes · 4 months

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Lauren in the Limelight by Miriam Landis, illustrated by Jill Cecil

Lauren in the Limelight by Miriam Landis, illustrated by Jill Cecil. Rhododendron Press, 2023. 9798988307822 Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 3.5 Format: Hardcover Genre: Realistic fiction What did you like about the book? Three young dancers go up on pointe at the beginning of sixth grade and must reassess their commitment to ballet in this story told in alternating…

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leonbloder · 5 months

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Would Jesus Be Welcome In Your Church?

During one of my "rabbit hole" explorations on a topic for a sermon recently, I got to reading some quotes by the late Rich Mullins.

Mullins was an aclaimed Christian musical artist in the late 80s and early 90s, who wrote songs like, "Awesome God," "My Deliverer," "Hold Me Jesus," and "Creed," all of which won multiple awards.

But Mullins withdrew from the mainstream Contemporary Christian Music industry late in his career, and his music and writing took on a decidedly different kind of tone.

He was highly critical of what had become of Evangelical Christianity, and was a kind of prophet who began to foresee how the marriage between Evangelicals and right wing politics could lead to a kind of Christianity that didn't seem to follow Jesus.

Mullins died in a car crash in 1997, and at his memorial Amy Grant described him as the "uneasy conscience of Christian music."

One of Mullins' prescient quotes about the state of Christianity really resonated with me, and I'd like to share it here:

Christianity is not about building an absolutely secure little niche in the world where you can live with your perfect little wife and your perfect little children in a beautiful little house where you have no gays or minority groups anywhere near you. Christianity is about learning to love like Jesus loved, and Jesus loved the poor, and Jesus loved the broken-hearted.

Interestingly, that quote and others like it would have gotten Mullins publicly blackballed by Evangelical Christianity and the Christian music industry if he'd made it in our current culture.

As it was, in the mid-90s he did receive his fair share of criticism, buy by then he'd already withdrawn fro the limelight.

I can't imagine the excoriating comments it would have garnered on social media and the internet now---fueled by infuriated Christians who couldn't believe that one of their own would say such a thing.

Actually, I can imagine it. Because it's happened a lot in the past few years. Christian artists like Phil Keaggy, Michelle Branch, Switchfoot, Amy Grant, Lauren Daigle and many more have been "cancelled" by mainstream Christianity for expressing views that call the politics of Evangelicalism into question.

There are also scores of pastors and authors who have been ostracized, fired, lost speaking engagements, and the like for doing the same. I'm thinking of people like Rob Bell, Brian McLaren, Jen Hatmaker, Sarah Bessey, and so many more.

Like Mullins, these artists and creators had the temerity to actually ask why so many Christians seemed to be more in love with politics than with Jesus. Further, they pushed back against forms of Christianity that excluded more than included.

And for many of them it cost them their careers.

Interestingly, Jesus faced cancellation by the religious leaders of his day. They couldn't believe that he would teach that God's love was extended to everyone, even those outside their circle.

These religious leaders also were incensed that Jesus took apart the ridiculous nature of their rules, regulations, doctrines and dogmas that actually kept people from drawing closer to God.

So they constantly tried to discredit Jesus, demean him, catch him out and spread all kinds of lies, innuendo and the like to diminish his influence. And then when none of that seemed to work, they had him killed.

I have to wonder, if Jesus showed up today preaching the very things that we see in the Gospels, would mainstream Christianity call him a heretic, and reject him?

And how many of us would really be drawn to his words and his teachings, particularly the uncomfortable parts about letting go of our materialism, eschewing power and status, giving ourselves away for the sake of the shalom of God in the world?

Those of us who call ourselves Jesus-followers ought to think deeply about these kinds of things. We have an opportunity in this divided and often completely messed-up world we live in to shine the light of Jesus, and to love as Jesus loved.

Let's not squander that moment because we're too afraid to follow the One we claim to follow.

May it be so for us all, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all now and forever. Amen.

#presbymusings #dailydevotion #leonbloder #dailydevo #dailydevotional #christian living #leon bloder #faith #spiritualgrowth #spirituality

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daughter-of-melpomene · 2 years

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INTRODUCING... MY NATIONAL TREASURE ORIGINAL CHARACTER, LAURENS GATES

❝ Laurens Gates - full name John Laurens Gates, but nobody besides his parents had ever called him John and escaped unscathed - had never believed in what was supposedly his family's history. Unlike his older brother, who had wholeheartedly bought into the stories their grandfather kept telling them and spent most of his childhood planning how he would become the Gates to finally find the Templars' lost treasure, Laurens patiently listened to his grandfather's rambling tales and then rolled his eyes the second the old man's back was turned. He wasn't trying to be rude - he was by nature sarcastic and pessimistic, but never outright rude - but it had always seemed impossible to him that such a large and important treasure could have gone unfound after so many years and so many people trying.

Having fled his dysfunctional family home as soon as he graduated from high school, Laurens had chosen to pursue a drastically different path than his brother, one that was at once less practical as an artist's career and more practical than running off to look for treasure. While Ben had run off to treasure hunt after only two years of college, with a degree he never would've gotten if it wasn't for their mother's nagging, Laurens had studied the traditional four years, earned his degree in fiction writing, and fought to get published the stories that he had been working on and honing his entire life. And eventually, he did; one of his works, the heartfelt magical realism story that was nearest and dearest to his heart, had gotten picked up and published, and before long, Laurens had been thrust into the limelight, with a book that stayed at the top of the New York Times list for two months and left readers clamoring for more.

Five years after that first novel, Laurens has finished the bestselling trilogy that came from that story and now aims to begin a new novel - one about adventure and romance, filled with adrenaline-fueled chases and heart-pounding action. The only problem is that he can't seem to get the damn thing started, no matter how many hours he fills with staring at his blank computer document or trying exercises for overcoming writer's block.

And then his dear older brother, whom Laurens hasn't spoken to in almost a year, calls him up and tells him that he's finally made a breakthrough in his hunt for the Templar treasure. While Laurens still can't quite bring himself to believe that the treasure really exists, he figures that the hunt Ben is attempting to drag him on might provide some inspiration for his novel, and so he takes his brother up on the offer to accompany his expedition to the Arctic Circle.

And promptly finds himself caught up in a real-life adventure, racing against the clock and Ben's traitorous ex-partner to find the treasure first, carrying out elaborate plans to steal priceless historical documents - and potentially developing feelings for his brother's cute and awkward assistant.

Forget writing an adventure story - with only one phone call from his brother, Laurens has found himself living in one. ❞

General Taglist: @raith-way, @hiddenqveendom, @auxiliarydetective, @foxesandmagic, @stardustocs, @artemisocs.

#my ocs #introducing my ocs #ch: laurens gates #oc: laurens gates #ocapp #ocappreciation #ochub #allboutocs #fyeahnationaltreasureocs #national treasure oc #fic: centuries

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celebritynewsinusa · 7 months

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Navigating the Murky Waters of Public Allegations and Apologies

1. Introduction The world of public figures is rife with controversies, allegations, and apologies. From politicians to celebrities, no one seems immune to the scrutiny of the public eye. The recent events surrounding various public figures have once again brought to the forefront the delicate balance between personal indiscretions and public accountability. 2. The Public Gaffe: Lauren Boebert's Theater Incident U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert's recent experience at a Denver theater during the "Beetlejuice" musical serves as a stark reminder of how quickly personal actions can become public fodder. The conservative Colorado congresswoman was ejected for vaping and taking unauthorized pictures, leading to a confrontation with the police. Audience members captured videos of her and her boyfriend in compromising positions. Boebert later expressed regret, attributing her actions to the stress of a public divorce. This incident underscores the importance of discretion and the challenges of maintaining a private life in the public domain.

3. The Controversial Statement: Jann Wenner's Dismissive Remarks Jann Wenner, co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine, faced backlash for his dismissive comments about female musicians and musicians of color. His assertion that none were "articulate enough on this intellectual level" was met with widespread criticism. Wenner's subsequent apology highlighted the dangers of making sweeping generalizations and the need for inclusivity in the music industry. 4. Serious Allegations: Russell Brand's Sexual Assault Accusations Comedian and social commentator Russell Brand found himself at the center of a media storm following allegations of sexual assault by four women. Despite his vehement denials and emphasis on consensual relationships, the damage to his reputation was palpable. The case raises questions about the veracity of old allegations, the role of the media in amplifying them, and the consequences for the accused.

5. The Challenge of Public Scrutiny Public figures, whether politicians like Donald Trump and Joe Biden or pop culture icons, often find themselves under intense scrutiny. Their statements and actions are dissected, leading to a barrage of denials, clarifications, and apologies. The challenge lies in discerning truth from exaggeration and understanding the motivations behind these public confrontations. The recent controversies surrounding public figures serve as a reminder of the complexities of living in the limelight. While accountability is essential, it's equally crucial to approach allegations with a discerning eye and understand the broader context. As the lines between personal and public continue to blur, the need for transparency, understanding, and empathy becomes even more paramount. Read the full article

#Allegations #Apologies #Controversies #PublicFigures #Publicscrutiny

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biographypediaorg · 8 months

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Simone Alexandra Johnson, a successful model who established her name

A majority of people want to know the personal lives of celebrities because they follow them on social media. Celebrities are becoming influencers these days and inspiring others in various ways. Simone is the daughter of popular Hollywood actor Dwayne Johnson and American film producer Dany Garcia. She started her career as a model and achieved success within a short span of time. Moreover, Simone maintains her fitness properly, which helped her gain fame in the fashion and modeling fields.

The early life and education of Simone

Simone was born in Dave, Florida, USA, on August 14, 2001. Her parents divorced each other with mutual consent when she was just 7 years old. Dwayne used to pay $22,000 per month in child support, and both parents agreed to pay $5,000 for Simone’s education and other expenses. She graduated from high school in 2019 and enrolled at New York University for further studies.

Simone’s career as a model

Simone was always in the limelight because of her parents, who are celebrities. She was signed by ‘IMG Models, which is a leader in international model management. Furthermore, her Instagram account received more followers due to the beautiful photos she clicked during the photoshoot. Simone Alexandra Johnson became the first ambassador of the ‘Golden Globe Awards’ in 2018, which was a proud moment for her parents. She achieved the feat when she was just 17 years old and expressed her gratitude by thanking the committee.

Simone’s relationship with Dwayne Johnson

Simone Johnson decided to become a wrestler by following in the footsteps of his father, ‘The Rock’. WWE announced a wrestling contract with her on February 10, 2020. She maintains a cordial relationship with Dwayne Johnson, and he invites her to major red-carpet events. Her stunning appearance and beauty grabbed attention in the fashion world. She supports her father in all his personal choices, including his new relationship with Lauren Hashian.

Simone’s personal life and net worth

Simone is keeping her personal life out of the limelight; she hasn’t shared the details of her boyfriend or other things with others. At present, she is focusing more on her modeling career and looking for the right person to marry. It is certain that Simone’s prosperous modeling career lies ahead, and she is active on social media. Sources say that she will have a net worth of $500,000 in early 2020 due to her successful career in the modeling field. For more details visit: https://biographypedia.org/the-truth-of-dwayne-johnsons-daughter-simone-alexandra-johnson/

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mercerislandbooks · 8 months

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Fall Events at Island Books!

Island Books has so much going on in the next few months! Check out all the happenings below:

September 9th at 11am author Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos will be signing his new book, Paper Bag Poems in Pioneer Park.

September 10th at 12pm author Garth Stein and illustrator Matthew Southworth will be here to launch the second installment of their graphic series The Cloven -- and also host a weenie roast!

September 14th at 6pm on Zoom join our Virtual Knitting Book Club led by Lori as we discuss Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez, and our current works in progress.

September 21st at 6:30pm author Bob Muglia will be in conversation with Geek Wire's Todd Bishop, discussing Bob's new book, The Datapreneurs.

September 27th at 6:30pm author Kevin O'Brien will be in conversation with Jennie Shortridge discussing his new novel, The Enemy at Home.

September 28th at 7:30pm Island Books Open Book Club will be discussing Trust by Hernan Diaz.

October 12th at 6pm on Zoom join our Virtual Knitting Book Club led by Lori as we discuss The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna.

October 14th at 4pm author/illustrator Ben Clanton and author/illustrator Andy Chou Musser will be presenting their new book Ploof, geared towards preschoolers.

October 17th at 6pm author Jennifer Cramer-Miller will be discussing her book, Incurable Optimist.

October 22nd at 4pm author Miriam Landis will be in conversation with Nancy Pearl, discussing Miriam's new middle-grade novel Lauren in the Limelight.

October 24th at 6pm join us for an evening with former SuperSonics executive Bob Whitsitt to talk PNW sports and his new book, Game Changer.

October 26th at 7:30pm Island Books Open Book Club will be discussing Properties of Thirst by Marianne Wiggins.

It's going to be a fun fall at Island Books -- and stay tuned for our 50th Anniversary events, coming in November!

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masteraarnav · 1 year

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What Are The Positives That Readers Can Derive From Online Fashion And Lifestyle Magazines?

Fashion is always going to be of social and cultural significance. However, with social media playing a prominent role across modern societies, trends from across the world are now making their way into the limelight. Quite simply, there’s simply too much to keep up with, and trying to do it all on your own can get stressful.

However, an online fashion lifestyle magazine can be a reliable source of information for fashion enthusiasts. Read on to know how such a magazine can add value to your life and keep you up to date with all the latest developments in the worldwide fashion industry.

1. It Can Tell You about the Biggest Fashion Events

At the world’s biggest fashion events, designers get to showcase their latest creations. They are opportunities for models to shine as well. Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, MET Gala, and CFDA Fashion Awards are among the most prominent examples of these events.

Through the best online fashion magazines, you can know about the designers and models that impressed at these events. You can also keep yourself informed regarding the trends driving the fashion industry. Last but not least, you can experiment with the looks and designs flaunted by the top models.

2. It’s the Best Way to Know More about Your Favourite Models

The likes of Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Cara Delevigne, and Barbara Palvin made it to the top of the modelling game owing to their appearance at the biggest fashion events. These figures continue to collaborate with the world’s top fashion brands and designers and are responsible for setting viral trends.

At the end of the day, these models are all human beings. A quality online fashion magazine can take you closer to not just the models but the human beings they are. If you are an aspiring model yourself, their interviews can tell you about the hard work they had to put themselves through to reach where they are today. All in all, it offers a fantastic way to be inspired by the greatest names in the game.

3. It Can Give You the Latest News on the Most Well-Known Fashion Brands and Designers

The catwalks across the most prestigious fashion events offer lucrative opportunities for leading fashion brands and designers. Where would the likes of Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Coco Chanel be if they didn’t get the chance to showcase their talent? If you like adding trending clothing to your wardrobe from time to time, a fashion magazine online is what you need.

By reading the magazine regularly, you can get to know about what iconic designers and brands are up to. Following a reputed magazine can also help you predict fashions that are likely to become popular in the near future. This would allow you to change your fashion preferences so you always stay trending.

4. It Can Teach You How to Buy Authentic Products

The products of luxury fashion brands tend to be expensive. For many people, most luxury fashion brand products are inaccessible. As a result, the market is flooded with counterfeit products that are available at a fraction of the original variants’ prices. Sure, there’s nothing stopping you from buying these counterfeits. However, expect severe quality issues.

An online fashion magazine can give you valuable insights into both genuine and fake products. These insights should help you to tell authentic products from counterfeit variants. Ultimately, you would be doing a great favour to yourself by only sticking to authentic products that offer high quality and durability.

5. It Can Tell You Upcoming Events Worth Visiting in your Area

For fashion enthusiasts, the experience of actually being present at a fashion event can be unique and memorable. Going to the Milan or Paris Fashion Week every year is a tough task. However, you can definitely check out what’s happening in your local area, right?

Through an online fashion magazine, you can know about upcoming fashion events in your area. Typically, these events would be listed along with their schedules so you can participate in your local fashion scene. They would also give you opportunities to support local models and designers.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it; 5 positives that the best fashion magazines can offer. So, subscribe to an online fashion magazine now and satisfy the fashion enthusiast in you.

PeakLife is an online magazine that covers not only fashion, but the lifestyle, technology, travel, and finances as well. From the latest news and gossip to informative content and beyond, the magazine is a must-read for fashion and lifestyle enthusiasts.

#best fashion magazines #fashion magazine online

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