tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58077859587746441012024-03-05T08:05:32.964+02:00The Other GirlActually, you wouldn't know who the Other Girl is, because she's the other one. Honestly, she probably doesn't know who you are either. Importantly, she's probably someone you should know. LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-31402658325814002972016-04-15T10:10:00.000+02:002016-04-15T10:16:25.240+02:00No longer other<div class="MsoNormal">
I am writing this post, with an incredible sense of hope for
the future. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I started this blog in 2013, I was a different person.
I was the other girl.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the time, I wasn't a journalist, and having a blog was
the only way I could publish my writing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It also served as platform to express my concerns, emotions,
and dreams. It's a virtual record of my adolescent experiences. All the awkward
moments and the mind blowing conclusions included.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a doorway to my thoughts, a glimpse of my life. In a
way, it helped my friends understand me better. Heck, I got to know me better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will be 25 in over two months. I'm approaching this new year
without fear. Sure I'm nervous, but I am excited for the unexpected. I feel
like a balloon filled with helium and the only direction I'm going is up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I enter my mid-twenties, I want to be present in every
moment. Soaking it in, not racing forward to the future or reliving the past.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don't want to get caught up making plans. I want to take
hold of what God has for me now. I want to be a good steward of what He has
given me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To do that, I need to clear my mind of all distractions. If
I'm going to draw closer to Him, then that means letting go of the things that
keep me from Him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over the past few months God's voice has become much louder
in my life. I've learnt to tune into Him. It's been a journey of faith, and
it's been rewarding and refreshing to my spirit. I'm getting used to the idea
of tapping into the supernatural - I'm getting used to the idea that my spirit
is more real than my flesh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had an encounter with Him, which really shifted the way I
think about myself. I believe the things He says about me. He has convicted me of many things. He is constantly correcting my imperfections, sanctifying me. Coming to terms with my brokenness is probably the best
thing that has happened to me. I am more conscious of His grace upon my life
now.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I reach new levels of intimacy in my relationship with
Him, I'm truly seeing myself as His daughter, and not the other girl. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This has been a life-long work in progress, but more so in
the past three years as I authored this blog. I'm grateful for this period in my life and this blog has
helped me process the realities of this season. I have been vulnerable in this space. That's what writing did
for me - it laid out abstract things tangibly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ever watched a really good movie, and hated that it had to
end? That was my experience of ‘Definitely, Maybe’ (the best romantic comedy of
all time). I decided to get the film and every time I re-watched it the ending
grew on me. I looked forward to it, in the same way I looked forward to the
parts that made me laugh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So think of the end of the Other Girl in the same way. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sure, endings suck, but the good thing about the internet is
that you can always come back to the blog and re-read the posts that made you
laugh and the ones that made you go WTF? And hopefully the ending will grow on
you too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To every reader (whether you read one post or all of them) you've
shared some of the most important memories of my life. I hope you learnt a few
things. I hope you smiled, especially on the days when you had nothing to smile
about.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At this stage, I need to get back to a place where my
writing is a true form of worship. As a daughter, writing to her Father. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s an awesome testimony that led to this, but I’m choosing
not to write it down this time. I’m saving it for the day when I bump into one
of you and can share it with words from my mouth. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to be in a place where I actively share the Gospel
with the people I engage with daily, and not anonymously on the internet
without accountability.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For now, know
that my soul is content, I am at peace. There is no overthinking, or wrestling
with reality. My faith is built on something everlasting. If things fail,
that's alright. If things work out, that's alright too. My joy is found in the
Father. My belonging in Christ trumps all life's worries and woes. I have the
love of the Saviour of the world. I am His daughter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you for
reading. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-30408143651353793552016-03-29T14:55:00.000+02:002016-03-29T14:55:35.286+02:00Supernatural<div class="MsoNormal">
Me. Submerged in water.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sinking deep. Pulling down.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I am not afraid.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Relief. Refreshed and cleansed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Feel the wet. Feel alive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It pushes me upward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breathe. Floating on the waves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No gasping. Only rest. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You. Are living water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walls. Cannot be broken. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My hands. Bloodied and bruised.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dust is suffocating. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Beat. Leaving only cracks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No strength. Only despair.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Desperate surrender.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quake. Ground begins to shake.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walls tumble. No more fear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Free. No more chains on me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fire. Set in my soul.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your presence. Your power.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taste and see Your goodness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sweet. Anointing fills me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peace and grace. Love poured out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Changed by an encounter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me. No longer a slave.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Born to grace. Spirit rise.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You. Supernatural.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-15834358955277482872016-02-25T08:57:00.000+02:002016-02-25T08:57:43.139+02:00Soup snakes and autocompletion<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently found out what “soup snakes” means. I was so
chuffed about it, the first person I told was a good friend of mine who shares a
mutual love for Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak. (The best comedy writers of our time).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even though I made the discovery, five years after the
phrase was first used, I’m sure there are people out there who also don’t know
what “soup snakes” means. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Basically, Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak used to write for a
show called The Office (which is bloody brilliant by the way). In season five
(the show has nine seasons because it’s so darn good) the character Michael
Scott (portrayed by Steve Carell… If you don’t know who that is, then we can’t
be friends, seriously) declares his love for a woman named Holly. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He carries on about why they’re so good together, because
they’re “soup snakes”. Which doesn’t make sense right? What’s a soup snake? And
then he realises that the whole time he’s been misreading the phrase “soul mates”
as “soup snakes”. (I know, let’s take a moment to appreciate the awwww-ness in
that).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here’s where Mindy and BJ come in (isn’t it great how I’m
talking about them like they’re people I know). Mindy and BJ have an on-again,
off-again relationship. They’re both writers and sometimes they have
conversations on Twitter where they talk candidly about their relationship on
social media, for strangers like me to see. They’re always calling each other “soup
snakes”. In one particular tweet - BJ tells
Mindy that she “autocompletes” him. (I know, time to awwww again).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyway, “soup snake” is my new favorite word. It’s not
anything special, Shakespeare didn’t write it. It’s probably not the most romantic
thing I will ever hear. In fact one of the most romantic things I have read is
a poem written by BJ in his book, 'One More Thing': <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The Literalist’s Love Poem<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Roses are rose.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Violets are violet.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I love you.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The frankness in that message is refreshing. It makes
me consider the expectations I have of love. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a Christian I try to live a purposeful life. When I do
choose a spouse one day, I want my marriage to fulfil a kingdom purpose. I think I’ve become so obsessed with this
idealistic expectation of what I want marriage to look like that I haven’t left
room for anything else. I haven’t left room for romance. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel so strongly
about not getting caught up with romance, that I have omitted any inclination
of it in this marriage picture I’m painting. I used to think seeking
autocompletion is a weakness. Or seeking a “soup snake” is pathetic. I know,
it’s crazy, but I swear I’m not a robot. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve grown up repressing my emotions and handling my
feelings sensibly (Jane Austen, that’s for you). Once I told a friend that I had a crush on a guy (and it took much courage to admit that to another human being). She was so surprised to hear that I was capable of having romantic feelings for anyone. I probably thought that too, like I was "above" that or something. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve realised that I haven’t
considered the real parts of love. The parts where my humanity comes in and the
rawness of me and whoever my spouse is, falls short of the bigger calling God
has placed on us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think God hates romance. But I’ve been acting like
He does. Yes, a marriage should fulfil a kingdom purpose, but that doesn’t mean
you don’t get to be wooed. It’s okay to feel like there are butterflies in your
stomach, or that you’re weak in the knees. It's okay to say things like: "You're my soup snake". It’s okay to consider your feelings.
It’s taken a long time for me to accept that. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s to Mindy and BJ, they’re not a model couple, but
they’re great writers. <o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-20801614747434701532016-01-21T17:43:00.001+02:002016-01-21T17:43:34.397+02:00Letter for my brother<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes I imagine what my life would be like if I was a
boy. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think I would be more athletic. Maybe I’d have more
friends because I’d be more likeable. I believe I’d be more resourceful, confident
and laid back. I’d probably take more risks and have fun. I would be like you, my
brother.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over the past 18 years I’ve watched you grow into the smart,
capable and God-fearing young man you are today. Sometimes I wish we could go
back to the days when you were a toddler, fighting me for the remote so that
you could watch Teletubbies. If I knew then what I know about you now, then I
would’ve let you win the remote, and every fight we’ve ever had.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t be an older brother to you. That’s a shame, I’m sure
we would’ve shared some good times and inside jokes as brothers. But going
forward, I want to do my best to understand you better so that we never have to
waste our lives fighting about things that don’t matter. I hope that you would
truly think of me as your keeper. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brother, as you bid farewell to adolescence, and the comfort
of living under our parents’ roof, there are a few things I believe you should
learn before entering the new age of adulthood. <o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">1.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Don’t be in a hurry to leave your childhood behind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
The best years of your life await you, but
nothing will ever be like your childhood. Don’t let go of the laughter, the
amusement and fascination you can only experience and appreciate as a child.
Don’t let the worries of adulthood crush your spirit. We are all still
children, pretending to know what we’re doing. So keep your childhood alive,
because you will find on days when your problems overwhelm you, the memories of
your childhood will put a smile on your face. <o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">2.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Make mistakes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
You don’t have to be perfect, and that’s
okay. Now is the time you will truly use your freedom to choose. You won’t
always make the right decisions. But don’t beat yourself up about it, because
that’s how you learn. Don’t despise your mistakes, they become funny stories
you can tell at parties.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">3.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Meet new people, and treat everyone with the
greatest respect.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Use every opportunity to meet new people,
you never know what you might learn from them. Whether it’s the car guard or an
investment banker, everyone can teach you something.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">4.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Keep your friends close.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Don’t throw away good friends, they are
hard to find. Hold onto your childhood friendships, you will find that they
withstand the test of time. These are the people who will share your interests,
and understand you. Cherish them, pour
into them. Pray for them, constantly. Set aside time to have fun with them.
Make the effort to meet with them.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">5.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Sing, always.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Because there is no better way to express
your joy. Sing in your car, sing in your bedroom, sing in the shower and sing in
the aisles while you’re buying groceries. Do it at the top of your lungs, or
hum it while you fall asleep. Everyone loves music and no one will have a good
reason to tell you to stop.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">6.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Find new ways to express your creativity.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Write, take up dance classes, learn to play
a musical instrument, paint, sculpt, take photographs, sketch and learn how to be
a ventriloquist. You can never find enough ways to worship and glorify God.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">7.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Listen to mum and dad, but not always.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Sure, they know what they’re doing, most days.
But on other days, you’ll have to make your own decisions and take
responsibility for your own happiness. Always honour them and God will honour
you. Appreciate the time you can share with them, because there isn’t enough of
it. Respect them, respect how they live. But explore new ways you can live. You
define your destiny. You determine how you finish the race. <br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">8.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Hang out with old people.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
They’re like troughs of wisdom. You want to
be there when they start spewing out truths, their stories are invaluable. Let
them share about their histories. Allow them to impart what they’ve learnt to
you.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">9.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Add value to the world.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Your life is not your own, you don’t live
for yourself. Surrender yourself to kingdom purposes. You can make a
difference. Volunteer at animal shelters, hang out with orphans, raise money to
pay for someone else’s university fees, join a protest, and denounce racism and
other prejudices. The power to put an end to the injustices of this world is
within you.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">10. T</span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">ake pride in your appearance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Unfortunately, you live in a world where
first impressions last. People might tell you that they don’t care if you iron
your shirts, but you should. Think of every new encounter with someone as a
potential job interview. If you don’t want to lead a mediocre life, start with
your appearance. Be neat, respect yourself.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">11.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Never stop reading.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
No matter how busy you get. I know that
throughout varsity you’ll be reading endless papers, but sneak in a novel. Find
books that challenge you, teach you and simply entertain you. Writers read. Also,
books make for great talking points and pick-up lines.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">12. </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Be kind to girls.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Treat them as if they were your sisters,
only better. Tell every girl you like that you have a crush on her. She’ll
laugh, and that’ll make her day. Choose one to love. But don’t mislead her. Do
your best to guard your heart and hers, know that love will always be a risk.
Only share your feelings with her until such time arises where you are certain
that you are willing to commit to spending the rest of your life with her. And
then make your intentions clear by boldly asking her parents for their
blessing.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">13.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Work hard</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
There are no short cuts. Everything out
here is hard to do. It requires discipline, tenacity and perseverance. You
won’t make lots of money immediately after graduating, so don’t expect it to
fall into your lap. The reward is in the doing, so savour the experience because
it builds your character and that is where your true wealth lies.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">14.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Try your best to have fun.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
You have limited time on your hands but try
make each day an adventure. See the joy of the Lord in everything. You don’t
even have to spend too much money to do it. Appreciate the little things. Stop
and smell the roses - literally. Walk in the rain and splash in the puddles.
Recite Shakespeare in Whale. Dress up like a superhero, because you can. Laugh
at yourself, enjoy your company.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">15.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Don’t be yourself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Instead, be who Jesus Christ is in you.
He’s a better person anyway. Deny yourself and choose His righteousness daily.
Pick up your cross, because then you will live a life that truly counts for
something greater. Be the person who does the things no one else wants to. Be
His vessel, let Him use you as He pleases and mould you into the man He has
called you to be.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">16.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Pray.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
That’s how you communicate with God. Don’t
just pray for yourself, pray for your friends and the communities you’re are
involved in. Pray for the economy - even if you don’t know what’s going on,
pray for our nation, pray for our president, whoever he may be. Be burdened by
the problems of our world and pray for change. And then listen to hear what God
wants you to do. Let Him share His vision with you and ask Him for the courage
and strength to act.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">17.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Reread the Gospel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
This is the truth. It changes lives and
transforms societies. You can never hear it enough. Let it consume you. Fall in
love with Father again, and again, and again. Hunger for Him, obsess over Him. Rediscover
His crazy love for you.<br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">18.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Proclaim the Gospel.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
After allowing the truth to wash over you,
let it overflow and spill into the other areas of your life. Have the urgency
of Paul to share the gospel. My prayer for you is that you would desire this: <i>“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak,
words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the
gospel” - Ephesians 6:19 (NIV).<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Dearest brother, in many ways you have made
me. I hope that others will experience the joy and pleasantness of knowing you,
and appreciate the person you are. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Live without fear, draw strength from your
faith. Walk in His grace forever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-39285932041634752702015-12-08T11:32:00.000+02:002015-12-08T19:18:24.385+02:00Small Town<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been living and working in the city for roughly 11
months. Most of my time has been devoted to settling into adulthood, adapting
my lifestyle from a student to a young professional and meeting people along
the way. Of all the things I’ve learnt about myself, one thing that rings true
is that I am not cut from the same cloth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m small town. Dead set in my methods and there’s no way
I’m going to unlearn these prudent habits. And truthfully, I’m not vying to be
a city slicker either… I simply don’t want to. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Singer-songwriter Aron Wright’s lyrics to a song called
Home, have captured my experience in the past few months perfectly: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I have seen all I care
to see of this world it has no more for me<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I need the call for
giving peace<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>That only comes from
my family. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I wanna go home. I
wanna go home. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I’m following the lead
of the setting sun. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And I’m going back
where I came from. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ironically, in my last few years of high school, I was so
desperate to break free from the limitations of the town in which I was raised.
I wanted to smash all the boxes in which people classified me. Now that I live
in the city, I have found that people still put you in boxes. They’re just a
little bigger, creating an illusion of freedom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But there are things about the city I cannot deny that I
love. There’s an energy about it that constantly drives you to be
extraordinary. A small town keeps you
comfortable. A city never runs out of thrills. A small town deprives you of
growth. The only way to survive in a city is to grow. A small town is stagnant.
A city is constantly moving, and if you stop you’ll get left behind, unable to gain
ground. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But this city is not my maker. It’s just an enabler. The
small town made me. The city just unlocks who that person is. Now that I have
that revelation, I am more determined to confidently run the path God has set
for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
People born and raised in the city just seem to be more
street smart. They know the hustle. There’s an expectation of imperfection and
a general sense of acceptance. Enter me: Anxious workaholic. Likes peace but
seeks adventure. Wants to change the world, but scared of what that may
involve. A good night out involves spending quality time with people you care about, in moderation, followed by eight hours of sleep. Values tradition, a fact I wasn’t
aware of until two weeks ago. Treads
with caution. Learning to do things alone. The city as a setting: Deceptively
brave, bold and beautiful. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Put more simply, if I was Alice, after falling down the
rabbit hole I think I would be pretty disappointed with what I would have found
once I reached the bottom. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I follow <i>Humans Of New
York</i> posts on social media. They’re basically street portraits of people
who share their stories. It’s a social phenomenon which has extended across the
world. There’s even a book with a collection of these stories and portraits
(adding that to my Christmas wish list). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One story I’ve been mulling over the past few days is about
a man, raised in a city. He moved to a small town, fell in love with a woman
and they started a family together. He always wanted to be a musician, so his
wife agreed to move to New York with him to see if he could make something of
his music career. After moving, they had to take on extra jobs to pay rent, he
hardly spent time with his family and wasn’t working on his music at all. He
and his wife were fighting more and at one point he became abusive. She left
him, and took their children with her. Now he’s alone in the city, with no
music career, doing a job he hates just so that he has a means to live.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that won’t happen to everybody, but that’s the gist
of a city- You’re constantly chasing your dreams, or finding the means to. I
don’t think I have a great quality of life here. But I can’t go back to a small
town either. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wasn’t raised in a city. I don’t always understand how it
works. Sure I want to be successful and make it to the top, but what happens
after? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I moved to a forgotten town, then yes, maybe I would be happier, have
a comfortable life and be a great something. But the city appeals to your
ambition while offering you some kind of anonymity. You can fail here, and then
try again without anyone making a big deal about it. You can be who you are here, without anyone
passing judgments (to your face at least). You can be forgotten here, without
anyone caring. No one is great here. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can live in a city and still be trapped in boxes. You can live in a city and still do yourself an injustice. You can live in a city and still be a small town girl.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-30169084580526455912015-11-29T14:03:00.001+02:002015-11-29T14:04:10.489+02:00Generations <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
When I was growing up, all I wanted to do was be a hero. At
age four, I wanted to be a Power Ranger. By the age of seven, I wanted to be my
grade one teacher. At age 11 I wanted to become a well-known author like Roald
Dahl. At 14, I wanted to be famous, like the movie stars. And by the age of 18,
I just wanted to be me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Now that I’ve got to know myself and come to terms with my
shortcomings and my abilities, the 24-year-old me just wants to become who my
parents are. I’ve spent my whole life trying to be someone they can be proud
of, but now I want to be somebody I can be proud of. If I can embody their
compassion, their authenticity, their tenacious audacity to do what is right
and their steadfast leadership then I know my life will count for something
greater.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
My parents are teachers. Teachers do not get enough
recognition for the work they do in raising generations, supporting communities
and transforming society. I didn’t become a teacher because I thought it was a
boring profession. But in retrospect, I would rather have a career that imparts
value into people’s lives, leaves a positive mark on the world and shapes
humanity for the better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
When we walk through malls or shopping centres, people my
parents taught decades ago stop to greet them. My mother doesn’t always
remember their names but she recognises their faces. The conversation always
goes something like this: "You were a good teacher. I always remember what you
taught me. Thank you for always encouraging me." <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The simple explanation for such gratitude is this: My
parents are heroes. Oftentimes the good things they do may be overlooked and underappreciated.
But today I want to acknowledge the work they have done. I am grateful that
they raised me. I am one of the many who came from the works of their hands.
But I am most privileged because they were the ones God gave to me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
They have taught me to love God and love people. As Jesus
taught His disciples in Luke 10: 27, the greatest commandment is this: “Love
the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your
strength and with all your mind,” and, “Love your neighbour as you love
yourself.” I have seen my parents serve God faithfully and be kind to complete
strangers. They carry a heart for humanity, because above all things, their
hearts are devoted to God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
My father is a cornerstone in his community. I remember on
countless occasions, having sat down for dinner, a member from the community
would pass by our house, yelling from outside our gate. Asking my dad if he
could help type out a letter, or fill in an application form, clarify the
meaning on a formal document, help find someone a job or even just help out
with food or loan some money. My parents wouldn’t hesitate to help. They would
leave their warm plates of food and see to the needs of someone else. I thought
all families did this kind of thing. Unfortunately, as I have come to know the
world, and all it has to offer, it is disappointing to see that such selfless
kindness doesn’t happen everywhere.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
My parents have made so many sacrifices for our family.
Making sure my brother and I have a comfortable life, a secure home, and
protection from the ills of this world. Sometimes we did not understand their
methods. We thought they were unfair, unreasonable and not understanding. I
remember arguing with my dad one day, to go and see a movie. I said: “But
everyone is going”. His response was: “You are not like everyone else.” Those
words have entrenched a sense of identity that cannot be questioned or taken
from me. It has propelled me towards my destiny. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I wish I could mention all the other things they taught me.
But perhaps the greatest lesson is this: To be faithful with the small things.
Collectively, the small things make a significant impact. So mum and dad, I
know you sometimes feel that the things you do aren’t always great or
glamorous. But they are significant. And for 50 years, you have blessed the
world because of the good things you’ve done.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
You are planet shakers. You are history makers. The
generations that will follow you, will be different. They are not like everyone
else because you are not like everyone else.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<i style="text-align: justify;">Colossians 1: 27 To them God has chosen to make known among
the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the
hope of glory. (NIV)</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-43338747693096610202015-11-02T16:50:00.000+02:002015-11-02T16:50:03.704+02:00Space and time<div class="MsoNormal">
Part of my job as a content manager for a website involves
altering the dates or time-frame in which posts are published. Essentially, I
get to defy space and time, creating a new reality in a virtual place.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Outside
of work though, my skills are bound by the only reality that matters. Where
real life happens- where hardships, sadness and inevitable abandon happens-
when friends leave you behind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently found out that another one of my friends is
fighting Cancer. This time it is Leukaemia. I had no intention of writing about
Cancer. I have no right to. I am not the one who has to decide to go through undetermined rounds
of treatment. Nor am I weighing up the pros and cons of different methods. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I am the friend of someone who is going through this. I
am the friend of someone who has to make difficult decisions about her future. She
has chosen to be positive despite this unfair card life has dealt her. She is
relentlessly fighting to fulfill her calling and
she won’t let Cancer stop her.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My friend, who’s known about her condition much longer than
I have, is hell-bent on making her life count. She has taught me that life is meant for living. We had spoken to each other
before I found out, no word of Cancer. Then again, people don’t go around
announcing that they have Cancer. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She could only talk about her plans to study
further and her passion for social justice and equality. Surely, someone who is ill wouldn’t sound as strong-willed as she did?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s where I am wrong. A paradox- death drives people to
live. Do I have to find out that I’m about to die before I start becoming
intentional about living or find a cause to lead? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When this bombshell dropped, obliterating reality, all I wanted to do was fall through the
ground. Shifting back to a year before, when we were delivering newspapers and
Cancer was something that happened to other people. Maybe push back even
further before I met her, perhaps making different decisions that would never
lead me to meet her. Or just fast forward to the future when this would all be
over and I’d be so many years ahead to remember this even happened. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I avoid being here in the present, then I would miss my
calling. I could abandon this space of destruction and cheat this collapsing time,
but I would miss the blessing of being part of the unfolding of God’s good and
perfect will. I would miss what He is teaching me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I stop living here, then I am no good for squandering the
space and time I have been granted. Unable to account for it, I will become unworthy
of humanity. The privilege of friendships and the ability to fight for a cause that
adds value to this world, it would be foolish to waste it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Don't waste your life"- that's a title of a book authored by John Piper, which I've never read- those are also the words that have been running through my mind for the past three days. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I fear that in two weeks, when this news is no longer fresh in my mind, that I would forget these very words and the things I have questioned about the way I live. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I fear that I will zone out of this current space and time, and embed myself in the future where there are only fragments of this present and no time for recollection. </div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-24828887880146083432015-10-06T08:28:00.000+02:002015-10-06T08:28:18.244+02:00Lipstick and dust<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t wear make-up. That’s reserved for special occasions
(like the rare wedding or graduation). I tell people it’s because I have really
sensitive skin and I break-out like a teenager in those Oxy ads from the 90s.
But the truth is I’m just too lazy to paint my face in the morning, as it is,
brushing my hair is an inconvenience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is that one day, when my girly hormones overcome the
tomboy in me and all I want is to feel pretty. I like to have my hair done,
flowing down my shoulders, with a flower to accessorise it. Speaking of
accessories, a bracelet or a necklace makes me feel delicate and special. Heels
make me walk tall and give me that “Man, I feel like a woman,” confidence
Shania Twain sings about. And the wind against my legs when I wear a dress makes
me feel a little like Marilyn Monroe doing a photo-shoot and a little like a
child running through a field of daffodils. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t dress up often (the blazer I throw on for work
doesn’t count) but when I do, I relish in it. Although the attention is pleasing,
it’s not entirely about the compliments you get from others, or the inquisitive
questions about why you made such an effort. It’s the “My goodness, you’re
beautiful,” moment when you look in the mirror. When you are completely content
and happy with yourself. Nothing anyone else says can compete with how you can
surprise yourself when you realise the “Something lovely to look at,” is you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t speak for men, but I can confidently say that all
women like to feel beautiful. Once, on our way back home from a trip, we passed
through an informal settlement. Driving past the shanty houses, I saw a young
woman, probably around 18 years of age. She was wearing stilettos, a black
jumpsuit, her hair was styled up and I believe she was wearing make-up. She
walked over to a bin and struck a pose. Her friend, holding a mobile phone,
held it up to take the picture. I remember thinking that it was a complete
spectacle to dress up and then do a photo-shoot in the dust. And then I
considered if it had been me, an 18 year old posing for that picture. She’s
just a girl, who wants to feel beautiful - I have those days too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I read the first chapter of Rob Bell’s book Sex God (it’s
not an oxymoron, apparently it’s about sexuality and God… go figure). It talks
about how in 1945 a large quantity of lipstick was delivered to the
Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, which the female prisoners started wearing.
In a way, the scarlet on their lips just restored some of their humanity.
Wearing lipstick made them feel like individuals again, and not just numbers in
a system. Taking care of their appearance made them feel human.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe that’s why being beautiful is such a big deal. It’s
not necessarily superficial (as I mistakenly thought in the past). For some, it
can be a revelation of your worth as a human being.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now here’s the part that just throws everything in a
tailspin: I had professional pictures taken recently and had the privilege of
getting my make-up done by a professional make-up artist. If my pores could
speak- they would say they loved how the Mac powder didn’t clog them up. My
lips would say that they enjoyed being pink for a change. My cheeks would say
that the blush made them feel like they were a real feature on my face. My nose
would be happy to finally be contoured. My eyebrows would be pleased to be
shaped. My eyes would be glad that they were finally complemented with the
right shade of brown. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And although it was nice to feel like a supermodel for
10 minutes, I think the girl who goes home and knows she is beautiful without all
that make-up is the happiest one of them all. She knows her worth, outside of
her beauty. She knows the dusty parts of her that aren’t great to look at, and
still feels complete. She knows that God makes beautiful things out of the dust. <o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-6770443115035604742015-08-26T08:05:00.003+02:002015-08-26T08:10:47.911+02:00Six Words<br />
I've decided to take up the six word story challenge by <a href="https://bencnicholson.wordpress.com/2015/08/23/six-word-stories-the-challenge-no-2/?blogsub=confirming#blog_subscription-3">Benedict Nicholson</a>.<br />
This week's theme is Passion.<br />
Here's my attempt:<br />
<br />
He kissed her. She slapped him.<br />
<br />
Speaking of six word stories- here's one by Ernest Hemingway:<br />
For sale: Baby shoes. Never worn.<br />
<br />
But do check out his blog and attempt one!LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-74193854016674091092015-08-08T12:14:00.000+02:002015-08-08T12:14:57.958+02:00You put a smile on my face<div style="text-align: center;">
You put a smile on my face</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The pleasure of your company</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To meet in the secret place</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This joy surged from the depths of me</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For only you can do that</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Genuinely, after all this time</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'Was different, truer than fact</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tears welled up, Your presence sublime</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The delicate memories</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bread broke, fellowship and fire </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Remembering histories</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Always You, who I desire</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nothing can wipe this away</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You are the One who put it there</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No pardon for what I say</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The knowledge of being Your heir</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You put a smile on my face</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-84619564785850894092015-07-07T08:30:00.000+02:002015-07-07T08:30:54.275+02:00Elephant<div class="MsoNormal">
What is it about women that makes them obsess about weight?
Why is it that when a woman enters a room, the first thing you notice is her
size? Why does a friend or a relative you haven’t seen in a long time always
start a conversation about how much weight you’ve gained or how much weight
you’ve lost? Why do you feel sad when you can’t slip into your jeans easily
anymore… why do you feel happy when you can fit into a smaller jeans size? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do I feel guilty when I eat an ice-cream? Why does the
thought of not eating carbs make me miserable? When was the last time I didn’t
count the food I was eating? Why do I care? Why should I care? Why does my
weight have so much power to influence my happiness?! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From as early as I could remember- my mother would always
warn me about the dangers of getting fat. My father would sneak me chocolates,
but my mother was always ready to count the sweeties in my hand. Her favorite
line to reprimand me: “Don’t overload your plate”. By the age of six, I clearly
understood the concept: If you eat too much, you’ll get fat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nevertheless, I am grateful to my mother for ingraining this
very annoying truth in my being. I am healthy and that trumps any self-image
issues … not quite. I thought I left those insecurities in high-school. Unfortunately,
they have managed to wiggle its way out of the dark, abandoned corner of adolescence and shamelessly
stalk me, nullifying the freedom I mistakenly thought comes with adulthood. No
matter what I accomplish in life, no matter what progress I make in my career,
no matter how many successful relationships I build with people, when I get
home and stare at myself in the mirror- there’s an elephant staring back.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In high-school- if it wasn’t my skin, it was my size.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In varsity- If it wasn’t my size, it was my hair.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Currently- If it’s not my hair, it’s my skin. And the one
constant in all of this- my weight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not going to tell you a story of how I looked past this
silly notion and learned to embrace my curves. (In fact- that vomit-inducing
saying: “Real women have curves”, is wrong. I’m no doctor, but I studied Life Sciences
for three years and I can confidently say: Curves don’t make a woman. Anatomy
does). I digress, what I want to tell you is that I don’t know why women have
self-image issues. It’s like when we’re born, we immediately get awarded a
badge that says: “There’s something wrong with you”. And then you progress
beyond toddler phase and then that monster badge rears its ugly head and you
basically have a screwed up idea of yourself for the rest of your life. (I know
this because my grandmother was 80+ and still telling me not to get fat- some
ideas never die… Oh my word, I think I finally figured out the plot of
Christopher Nolan’s Inception.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am not going to come down on media for influencing our
standards of beauty. Surely, by now we should know that something only has as
much power over you as you allow it to. But we don’t. I don’t. There are days
when I like myself. But there are more days when I don’t like myself. Nothing
changes. It’s not like I grow more beautiful some days and then morph into
something ugly the next. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s like there’s a short circuit in my brain because
there’s an elephant occupying a room in my mind that also holds my ideas about
beauty. The room says- the elephant doesn’t fit and cannot be beautiful. But
really, we shouldn’t hate the elephant. We should let her trumpet that uniquely
majestic sound of hers so that the walls of that room can come down. That room,
that very room is what’s limiting our thinking, our ideas of beauty and the way
we see ourselves. That room says big is bad, loud is wrong and happiness is
influenced by the way you look. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The problem is not the elephant. She is beautiful. The
problem is the room. It can’t contain her beauty. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-68161020955554277092015-05-15T13:34:00.001+02:002015-05-15T13:35:40.944+02:00Tether<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It’s 6:10 am, and I’m getting a phone call from my mother.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Me: Hello ma.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Mother: (Sounding frantic) Where are you?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Me: I’m at home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Mother: I thought you were out walking, it’s too dark outside. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Me: Of course not. I would never walk in the dark. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
12 hours later, I'm thinking about the conversation I had with
her that morning. Maybe. Perhaps it’s time for me to start walking in the dark.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The unknown. That’s all it really is. You don’t know what
lies ahead of you. You don’t know what may trip you, or who you might meet in
the middle of it. In the light you see everything. Nothing can hide, the danger
is exposed. You see things as they are. In the darkness things lurk, they catch
you by surprise. There is fear, because you don’t know what to expect next.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I don’t want to liken adulthood to darkness entirely, but
that’s what the past few weeks have felt like. It’s like I’m walking around with
a blindfold and having encounters with new things. Reaching out with my hands, exposing myself to the unidentified, learning how to handle it and then bumping into the next
thing. Fumbling till I've figured its structure, how it’s made and how best to
use it. Tasting it, deciding if I agree with it or not. Finding something that
works better. Finding different ways of doing things. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was Mother’s Day this past weekend. The 6<sup>th</sup>
year I wasn’t home to celebrate my mother. I had a choice to go home, there
were no circumstances holding me back this time. I could have gone home and
shared the day with her, but I chose not to. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I figured that every time I go back home, it’s like running
back towards the light. You never conquer darkness because you’re holding on to
the things that comfort you. The easy things. The things that remind you that although
you’re an adult, you’ll always be someone’s child. I've been choosing to stay
dependent on my parents instead of "forging my own path" towards independence. (Shocking,
thought I’d have this figured by now.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
There’s a battle raging inside me. The child who wants
to be taken care of, and the adult trying to break free from the tether anchored in the light. But
what happens when the tether snaps? The fall is inevitable. Whether I let go
now, eventually it will snap and I will fall. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>"Sometimes I wish for falling, wish for the release.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Wish for falling through the air to give me some relief.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Because falling's not the problem, when I'm falling I'm at peace.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>It's only when I hit the ground it causes all the grief." - Florence and the Machine (Falling)</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
There’s no problem with falling. The problem is hitting the ground. Will I land on my feet? Will I start running? Or
will it be so hard I’ll be forced to stay down? Will I recover from the
pain? Will I survive the landing?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">That’s why I need to walk in the dark, and keep walking.
Bumping into things I don’t like. Finding things that are harmless and good. Facing the scary things, dealing with the difficulties. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The things I learn
in the dark will prepare me for when the time comes for the fall. And it won't always be dark. Eventually, there will be light. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-77783579887471699802015-04-15T09:54:00.000+02:002015-04-15T09:54:04.092+02:00Blessed reassurance<div class="MsoNormal">
I find poetry to be a good way to slow down and take stock
of what is happening in my life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes it surges from within me and I
consider that a blessing. Other times I have to wait (a really long time) to
nurture an idea until it is ready to be birthed, I consider that an even
greater blessing. Sometimes the title comes to me in an instant, without me
having to think too hard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This time I settled for an
abstract-but-not-that-abstract-if-you-really-think-about-it title. Something
that I need, something that everyone needs to affirm their direction.
Reassurance. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is something about “surety” that offers you an
uncompromised security. I feel like God has been trying to make me understand
that is what He offers, but my human thinking cannot comprehend His
supernatural promises. So this is something He reminded me about Him. This is
His reassurance. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Leave it to me<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will take care <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of your worry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And you will share<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All the good things<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The divine love<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The truth it brings<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The fruit thereof<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My existence<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The perfection<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The completeness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eclipse your sin<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those shortcomings<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That regretful <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shamefulness stings<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But be hopeful<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I do take care<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of all the things<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do not despair<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My good news rings<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The morning light<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Defeats the dark<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The dead of night<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Will leave no mark<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
See the fullness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of my glory<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All the goodness<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of my story<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Know the son</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He is the one.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-39824387778937226292015-03-03T11:12:00.000+02:002015-03-03T12:07:37.128+02:00Driving Lessons 2.0<div class="MsoNormal">
Right now my greatest challenge is driving. From pulling into a parking bay to navigating
my way to a venue. It’s a miracle if I don’t bump a car, get to an appointment
on time (given Jo’burg traffic) and still have enough petrol in my tank after
each journey. No matter how short or simple, if I get to my destination in one
piece, I just want to get down on my knees and shout “Praise Jesus, Hallelujah”!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the same time, driving is one of those rare therapeutic
sessions I get to have. So there’s a lot
of singing, thinking out loud, questions (posed by myself, to myself in the
third person), and “Aha” moments or “I should've moved in that gap two robots ago”
realisations.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had the chance to experience South Africa’s goodness on
a micro-scopic level. You know, the part
that no one talks about it because it’s so hard to see in the midst of life’s
happenings. For instance, I’ve found
that giving someone space to move in ahead of you is a random act of kindness
that can make you feel really good about making someone else’s life
easier. I’ve also become acquainted with
a few security guards, who’ve kindly helped me get out of a basement
parking-lot. (Seriously, there was this one security guard. If he had a pen and
paper, I swear he would’ve drawn a diagram to help me get out of my parking space). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve seen people go
the extra mile (not literally) to be kind when driving in traffic. I guess it’s because
subconsciously we know all our lives are in danger so we’re all trying to be super nice
in an effort to prevent whatever we don’t want to happen from happening. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, there’s the occasional woman who hysterically
hoots at you (happened twice, different women, separate occasions. I was
probably wrong, not turning towards oncoming traffic was very silly of me. What was I thinking? Probably just trying to stay alive I guess.
Or the other time when I wasn’t moving fast enough in a traffic jam. Surely, I should just drive into the car in
front of me so that you don’t have to wait in traffic, like everyone else). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
have no hard feelings, and although at the time those women made me feel a
cocktail of emotions (anger, frazzledness, confusion, humiliation) I’ve learnt
to rise above their aggression and speak blessings over their lives, instead of
cussing or calling them morons. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last weekend I did my first trip home alone. Every time I’ve
driven home (132km away), I’ve had a passenger.
I didn’t expect anything to go seriously wrong. Sure, I was a bit nervous, but I tried to be
as cautious as possible. My trip
would’ve been great if my GPS didn’t take me through some dodgy back route past
farms. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For 10km I<i> </i>kept telling myself, you just need to keep driving because there’s
no way you’ll get out of here if you just stop.<i> </i>It started raining, and my GPS decided to die. I wanted to crap
myself, but realised I couldn’t because I was driving and there were no toilets
nearby and getting out of the car would put me in more danger. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pulled over to the side of the road, just shaking. And the only thing “Myself in the third
person” could yell at me was: “You just have to do this. You can’t turn
back. You have to do this yourself. You’re a journalist.” Yes, in my moment of need, the only
motivation my conscious could muster up was “You’re a journalist”. And it’s true, many times when I find
something difficult to do, I tell myself that there’s no way around it. If I can’t do this tiny thing, there’s no way
I can do my job. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It bothers me that the first thing that came to my mind wasn’t
“You’re a strong Christian woman”. Or,
“God loves you, no weapon formed against you will prosper.” Or “You can do this, you have Christ in you,
the hope of glory”. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the last few weeks I thought I had been drawing from
God. Leaning on Him and trusting Him for
life. But once again, my actions reveal
that I still want to do things by my own strength. I still believe that I can save myself. <br />
<br />
Sure, in the moment “You’re a journalist” got
me to man-up and start the car and keep driving. But how long will that last? What happens when “You’re a journalist”
doesn’t work. What do I draw from? Who
do I lean on? (Between us, myself in the
third person is a complete idiot, I don’t think I can rely on her for
substantial life advice). Eventually I saw a familiar landmark and just
followed the road, arriving home safely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something else has been getting to me and it’s the
ridiculousness of what I consider to be problems. At the beginning of this post I said my
biggest challenge was driving. Not to
rub my not-problems in anyone’s face, but those aren’t problems. I have no problems, and I’ve been going
through life like I have the world on my shoulders. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I met an 8 year old who’s going through an identity
crisis. He’s been adopted (that’s one)
and he was born Muslim but has to reconcile his beliefs with his adoptive
family who are Christians. He’s 8 years old and he has to deal with a
fundamental shift of his values. I’m 23 and paying for a parking ticket overwhelms
me (I have no problems). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So after all of this- what’s the point of my story? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m still learning to accept God’s grace, freely given,
undeserved favour. And no matter how insignificant, my not-problems still tell a story of God’s grace, as much as
anyone else’s problems. Seriously, I wake up in the morning and my only concern
is traffic. Not food, clothes, or my job. I have nothing to complain about. Nothing to be angry about. If that isn’t
grace, then you’ve just wasted three good minutes reading about a woman who
speaks to herself and is in denial about her terrible
driving. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-5544053744736017742015-02-13T13:21:00.000+02:002015-02-13T13:21:23.731+02:00Love natural<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I've never harboured strong, antagonistic feelings towards Valentine's Day
(Okay, maybe I did when I was a teenager.
But teenagers have strong antagonistic feelings towards everything). I'm not crazy-obsessed about the day either. In fact I think my borderline-indifferent affections
towards Valentine’s Day are pretty healthy.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">A day to express love is a fantastic idea (and probably one of the few good
inventions by humanity). If we could walk
in love and peace every day, appreciating each other and making everyone feel
really special, people would be happy to be alive. That's something to be excited about, and
clearly something we should all be thrilled to be part of. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I'm stealing this straight from the pulpit- because it blew my mind, and
maybe your mind will be blown too. So,
God is love, and if we are made in the image of God that means that we are made
for love. We are made to give love and we are made to receive love. Why would we deny ourselves the chance to
love when it is in our very nature to do that?
So not loving is unnatural, however loving people doesn’t always come
naturally. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">It’s a deep thought- but hold onto it, because it all goes downhill from
here as I unpack all the gooey reasons we should love Valentine's Day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">*Disclaimer: There is no disclaimer
this time; I think Valentine's Day is great.
Whether it's over-commercialized or not.
We need to spend more of our days being kind and caring towards each
other. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">10. Chocolatey goodness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">My earliest memory of Valentine's Day involves chocolate. Clearly this day is about receiving these
delectable brown milk products, and then wolfing them down (very classy). Good news is no one can judge you because on
Valentine's Day you don't need an excuse or reason to eat them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">9. Flowers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Every girl likes flowers. No matter
what she says (even if she’s allergic). Nature’s
raw perfume is just … aaah. And if you’re
really cheap, they’re great because you can just pick them from a garden. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">8. Will Shakes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Shout out to the guy who taught me how guys should talk to me (and how guys
shouldn't talk to me). All those lewd
lines eclipsed by that beautiful poetry.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">“The brightness of her cheek would shame those stars<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">As daylight doth a lamp. Her eye in heaven<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Would through the airy region stream so bright<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">That birds would sing and think it were not night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">See how she leans her cheek upon her hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Oh, that I were a glove upon that hand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">That I might touch that cheek!”- Romeo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Seriously, just cut my heart out right now.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">7. Saturday!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Normally Valentine’s Day doesn’t fall on a weekend so people hardly
celebrate it. With it being on a
Saturday this year, it’s sort of compulsory to do something. So my friends are ditching me for their
significant others, but the good news is (or really sad news) is that there are
plenty of people without love. So
tomorrow will be a good day to spread some love to the needy. Join a charity drive, hang out at an
orphanage, add value to the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">6. Rom-coms<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Perfect night in. 90s movie marathon. Blanket (in the heat of Summer). Popcorn (and buddy cokes). Settled. (Alternatively, you could actually
watch Valentine’s Day. The movie is
actually made for the day. And it’s got
plenty of actors in “leading parts” so you won’t be upset if you don’t like a
particular couple- there’s one you’re bound to like). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">5. You can wear red<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">I’m pretty sure everyone looks good in red, if they don't then that’s just
unfair. It’s a primary colour and the
name of Taylor Swift’s 2012 studio album.
See- no odds against it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">4. Music<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">That cheesy music about a mountain not being high enough to keep you away
from love, as you browse through the options of lettuce in the supermarket. You don’t get that in any other time of the
year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">3. Give-aways<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">There’s always some media promotion or competition going on. “Two tickets for all you can eat at this very
classy restaurant”. No one says you have
to take a person with you. You could essentially eat limitless meals for two, ALL
BY YOURSELF. (It’s called
commitment). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">2. Intro-spection<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN">Here’s a chance to examine your heart. Examine your walk. Are you walking in love? Or selfishness? Hard questions, but you have to ask them at
some point. Do it now, February is still
the early part of the year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Love people</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You shouldn't need a reason or an explanation. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span lang="EN"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-17799836224575025482015-01-21T18:30:00.001+02:002015-01-21T18:35:39.739+02:00TarantismAll my life (23 years) I've had a second party supervise my actions and give reasonable guidance for the decisions I've had to make. Subsequently, at the appliance section of a supermarket, I found it challenging to decide which brand of iron to buy without anyone to consult about my purchase decision.<br />
<br />
My parents were eager to kick me out of their nest and becoming accustomed to this new found freedom and independence has been as liberating as it is painful. <br />
<br />
Being alone has never been a problem for me. That was until I had to hang curtains, wipe down kitchen cupboards, clear out a clutter of spiders inhabiting my bathroom and navigate the city's freeways and complicated exits all by myself.<br />
<br />
The "You're an adult, that means you have to solve your own problems" penny dropped when I got pulled over by metro-cops. A routine licence check at 10pm on a Friday night proved to be intimidating. It was just me, a cop and God (whom I'm relying on more and more to get through most of these "adult-days"). <br />
<br />
It was when I had to board a plane without anyone to send me off (besides the cab guy who had just ripped me off) when I decided: I need a person.<br />
<br />
Yes the Shonda Rhimes definition of "person". Until now I didn't realise the depth of Cristina Yang telling Meredith Grey in a bar that she was her "person". Sometimes when things get heavy, I just want Cristina to come over and dance it out. <br />
<br />
<i>Tarantism: (n.) Overcoming melancholy by dancing; the uncontrollable urge to dance. (FACEBOOK)</i><br />
<br />
I always fancied myself as some version of Cristina, but more often than not, I'm Meredith. I want my independence, but I also want to be taken care of. Cristina is the strong, powerful, independent woman we want to be. We want to be the best professionals, we want to follow our passion no matter the cost, that is until we realize the price of being extraordinary.<br />
<br />
Cristina's had terrible things happen to her (i.e. her fiancé leaving her at the altar, her military doctor boyfriend strangling her in her sleep, conducting surgery on Meredith's husband with a gun held to her head, an abortion, a divorce, surviving a plane crash). Her heart bleeds too, she makes difficult decisions too, she's just really good at rising above the things that try to tear her down. <br />
<br />
Meredith was always the dark one and Cristina was the ray of light (or twisted companion) she needed. Every time something bad happened to Meredith, Cristina would crawl into her bed (at any given hour, without fail) and they'd talk about it.<br />
<br />
It was the perfect arrangement for dealing with stuff. Sometimes things were so bad, there were no solutions and Cristina would just turn up the music and they would start dancing. So while I was scrubbing a toilet bowl with my academic hands, I kept hoping my person would walk through the doors, turn up a song from our youth (the likes of Blur or the Spice Girls) and then we'd start dancing mindlessly across the filthy tiles I hadn't yet cleaned.<br />
<br />
However, having a person as strong-willed as Cristina means that when they grow, sometimes you get left behind. Eventually Cristina took a job in Zurich, heading ground-breaking heart surgery research. Meredith stayed behind and now she crawls into Alex Karev's (this guy who's doing a half-rate job of being her person) bed when she wants to talk about her problems. <br />
<br />
I've had person(s). They've moved in and out of my life, but they've always come through when I needed them to. One of them actually used to dance with me. Indie-folk blared through the room on random occasions, not all melancholic but indeed necessary for whatever we were going through. But now, that person is preparing to be a Chartered Accountant based in Cape Town and I have to get used to doing life without her. <br />
<br />
Before leaving, Cristina had one last dance with Meredith. There was nothing quite as fitting for them to part ways. I think Meredith will learn to grow and move on too. Sometimes that means not having a person, because the best thing for you at that stage is to be your own person.<br />
<br />
No more relying on someone to distract you from reality. No more dancing around problems. You have to choose what iron to buy. You have to be the law-abiding citizen. You have to board a plane alone. You are your person.<br />
<br />LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-92197536476049125322014-12-30T23:01:00.001+02:002014-12-31T16:35:28.275+02:00Second chances<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been delaying this post in an effort to avoid the demons I have to confront. A new year awaits and instead of rising to the challenge with unbridled enthusiasm, I'd much rather take cover, and assume the fetal position. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My failure to launch originates when less than a fortnight ago (I'm trying to sound old school) my negligent driving resulted in the tragedy accessorizing the rear of my mum's car. (Okay, 12 days ago I crashed my mum's car.) Aside: I finally got my driver's licence after trying 8 times. I think it's an accomplishment that deserves to be recorded as a novel.<br />
<br />
The damage is minimal, but still an eyesore. I make a point of not using that side of the car, because the memory of maiming a vehicle is really inconvenient to live with. It's kind of like living with the guilt of sin. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>James 1: 23- 24 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. (NIV) </i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
People crash cars all the time, and they get over it. Also, there are worse things to fret over. But I was overwhelmed with condemnation. I didn't want to drive again. I kept reliving it, analyzing everything I did and didn't do. I felt shame for doing something that stupid. Two days later my dad got me a brand new car, which I wasn't keen on driving because I was so guilt-ridden. In fact, every time I get behind a wheel, I get stressed about crashing, a fear I didn't have before. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That's what sin does. It makes living unbearable and it steals your joy so you can't appreciate your blessings. There's always that reminder that you might make the same mistake, that condemnation really gets you down. It stirs up doubt in your capabilities and who you are. (It's like "bad driver" automatically became one of the descriptions of my character.) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This incident disrupted my plans. It descended like a bird of prey, ready to scoop up my independence and shatter my confidence. In a week I'll be leaving the place I called home for 23 years. In the past two months, I've been struggling to keep up with my responsibilities as an adult, and the additional fears I have about driving have been weighing me down. <br />
<br />
But as James wrote, you can't just acknowledge the problem (sin) and do nothing about it. It festers and cripples you. So yes, I crashed a car, but I can't let that stop me from driving again, now I just drive with more care. Your sin is a mistake, but once you address it, you move forward in righteousness without the fear of stumbling again because you live by grace. Alternatively, my mother's translation was: "You need to grow up, but I forgive you. Now you have to forgive yourself". <br />
<br />
Sure there will be more mistakes I may or may not have control over, but I will not be beaten down by fear. So, as I uncurl myself from a web of self-mortification, head raised and a heart with hope for the future, I walk into 2015 by grace and mercy for second chances. </div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-41619301514529878162014-11-16T23:07:00.000+02:002014-11-17T09:51:29.611+02:00Sex Ed<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sehks. We think we’re
comfortable talking about it, but we really aren’t. (I suffer from the inability to spell the
word correctly barring the one time I got it right for the title of this very
blogpost. Baffling, most girls just
giggle, but I had to be the one girl that degenerates intellectually). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A conversation between my gran, me and my subconscious (about
Sehks) went somewhat like this: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Gran: Do you have male
friends Lameez?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Me: … (Stop hesitating,
you must say something, eventually) … uuuuhh (hand gestures only work when you’re
actually speaking) uhhhmmmmmm mmmmm
(You’re humming now?) eeeeeeeehhh (What
the hell is that sound your making with your mouth?!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Gran: It’s alright, you can tell me. But you must know, don’t have sex with
guys. They will promise you the sun,
moon and stars, but don’t do it. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Me: eeeeeeeehhhh
(Seriously?! Do you know words? Nod your head, it’ll be less
suspicious). <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I feel like my entire generation has been misled when it
comes to sex education (brilliant, I’ve suddenly overcome my “misspelling-of-naughty-words-so-that-they-sound-less-naughty
disorder”). Adults encouraged us to talk
about it and ask questions (but not too many).
It was awkward, so we asked each other.
(Please, picture 13-year-old virgin girls talking about a naked, grown
man thrusting his privates into your privates.
It’s kind of traumatising to find out there’s a hole in your body you
didn’t know about). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I remember still
coming to terms with the puberty talk. The
area you thought was just useful for urinating will now have blood gushing from
it on a monthly basis, because of the child you’re not having. Naturally, I tried my best to pretend that my
childhood wasn’t over by thinking about more wholesome things like puppies and Jesus. It was easier to choose Jesus over puppies. The latter soon had a way of making me think
about the mechanics of reproduction. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I turned a blind eye but when I was 18, in Bio class, it all
caught up when our teacher made us draw and label sexual organs and watch a
slideshow about STDs. My eyes were shut
through the whole thing. She said images
of rotten privates were all over the internet and we could always Google it
later. (It’s been five years, I haven’t
Googled yet). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The giddy feeling I got when it came to sex has now
transformed into hysterical rage at the f’d up message the world is teaching us
about it. I’d just like to get through
one day, or rather one episode of a primetime sitcom, that doesn’t bombard my
unsuspecting mind with some vulgar idea about sex. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Example: I really liked watching Game of Thrones. It’s a
great story and I thought I could ignore the monstrous sex scenes. In the end I decided to stop watching the
show because it clashed with God’s perfect design for sex within a marriage. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I think my generation compromises when it comes to
relationships and sex because we’re not taught God’s design for it. A marriage is supposed to represent the
Gospel, our reconciliation with God. Christian
teenagers are taught to “save themselves” or “be pure” for their spouses
instead of being taught that their body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, we are
the bride of Christ and we have His righteousness. You’re not “saving yourself” because you love
your future spouse/ life partner. You’re
saving yourself because you love Jesus Christ and you want to glorify Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Some little girl is growing up with the perception that one
day a Prince (or Princess, now with these new, progressive, homosexual fairy tales)
will take her to be his wife and he’ll be mighty pleased to know she’s a virgin. The motivation is wrong. It’s been distorted not only by the world,
but by the countless relationship talks that lack the Gospel’s message of
unconditional love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Could that little girl love the unlovable? Could that little girl love a guy who’s a
recovering a drug-addict and who’s basically “banged” his way to get a new
fix? I bet she’ll feel cheated once she’s
found that she’s been saving herself for a half-dead, fornicator. Can you blame her? Pastors have torn pieces of paper to represent
the soul ties that will take away pieces of her heart in an effort to stop her
from sleeping around. Nothing about a shredded piece of paper encourages you to love the unlovable. In fact, it only tells you not to be unlovable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">She was strictly told to give her whole heart to her spouse
because God wants her to have a happy marriage.
Although that’s true, the same emphasis wasn’t placed on giving her whole heart to Jesus Christ, surrendering all things for His perfect and good will
to reign in her life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Our generation has had the convictions and visions (man-made
and flawed) of previous generations drilled into us. Maybe if we spoke more about the Gospel (the greatest love story the world will ever know), we’d
find it much easier to talk about sex. </span>LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-3244395399960624332014-10-26T18:59:00.000+02:002014-10-26T22:06:09.310+02:00Woody Allen, Kangaroo Court and the Gospel<div style="text-align: justify;">
I recently watched Blue Jasmine, the Woody Allen movie for which Cate Blanchett got the Oscar for best actress. I loved the imperfect ending, it's like Woody Allen respects us enough to give us a realistic conclusion as opposed to those pansy fantasy "happily ever afters" that dupe us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've actually brought Blue Jasmine up in conversations and managed to bond with newsroom colleagues over Woody Allen lines. I was a bit obsessive and had a mini Woody Allen movie marathon. It got me thinking about the first Allen film that hooked me. It was titled Midnight in Paris, and before giving it to me, my friend said, "Just watch it, it will surprise you". </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
She was right, watching Owen Wilson caught in nostalgia taught me to value the present. I was so intrigued I told everyone else to watch it too. I've made plans to watch Allen's new film, Magic in Moonlight. It's got Emma Stone and Colin Firth, so it's bound to be good with such excellent talent.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Speaking of which, Allen has a knack for casting great actors. Besides the incredible script and the enchanting soundtracks, the actors really pull things together. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In other news, I'm a huge fan of the duo Capital Cities. I was first exposed to them when I heard their song Kangaroo Court. There was something about the lines "Shut up, shut up, shut up. Sit down, sit down, sit down" that made me continue listening. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the epic music video came out last year, I shared it on each of my social media accounts. Later I discovered Safe and Sound, Farrah Fawcett Hair and their version of Madonna's Holiday which became my favorites to loop on playlists. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But a year later, I found some people who didn't know the awesomeness of Capital Cities, and had neither, SHOCK HORROR, seen the Kangaroo Court music video. So on Friday my colleagues YouTubed the story of a zebra who painted himself black to impersonate a mustang so that he could enter a club. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
They enjoyed the jazzy bits and were gripped by the slaughtering of the zebra who became a lion's supper as a punishment for his crime. (If you're lost, just google the music video). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You may be wondering what the point of this is, but in some way, I feel like I was doing a public service by sharing these fragments of pop culture. It's not like it made a difference in anyone's life. My colleagues and I could've bonded over something simpler, like coffee. But I felt like they had to know about something I enjoyed, so that they could enjoy it too. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And here's the part where it gets intense, see, I don't feel the same when it comes to sharing the Gospel. I say I'm intrigued by the Gospel, but I don't have the urgency or the courage to talk about it like I did after I watched Allen's Manhattan Murder Mystery. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It bothers me that I'd talk about fading things that add no value to anyone's life, as opposed to the one thing that gives life. I think twice about sharing a Bible verse that speaks to me, and then don't. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In my head I value the Gospel, but my actions show it's more important for me to talk about Woody Allen than Jesus Christ. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I valued the Gospel my actions would be different. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My heart's not there. My heart's not moved. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-39216002644159296782014-09-24T23:46:00.002+02:002014-09-25T08:06:58.651+02:00Cumberbatch<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">No. I am not a
Cumberbitch. I hate the word. It’s disgusting how it generalises women by
one interest. Can’t I thoroughly enjoy
an artist’s craft without my admiration being likened to sexualised worship? Besides,
Benedict Cumberbatch himself said “Cumberbabes” would have been a softer option-
although, still objectifiable. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I am not a groupie, but I cannot deny that I am mad about Benedict
Cumberbatch. I wasn’t always a
fan. I was first exposed to his acting
in the film, Atonement. He was the
paedophile who ruined James McAvoy’s dreams to go to medical school and marry
Keira Knightley. I hated him, because I
was all about McAvoy (still am). Then he played Mary Boleyn’s loser husband in
that offensively inaccurate biopic about the Boleyn Girls. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Of course I was surprised when I heard about the Cumberbitch
phenomenon. I did not understand the
hype around this giant British guy and his awkward face. I had only seen him in supporting roles, and
no one remembers those people. I was keen
on watching the BBC series Sherlock until I found out Cumberbatch was the
lead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But I was young and stupid back then. One episode of Sherlock and I was charmed by
his talented performance, understated good-looks and that British wit. So much so, I drew up a list of all the
things I love about Cumberbatch. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">10. He is British<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thanks to Hugh Grant, we all have a thing for posh British
guys. If Cumberbatch was American, he
probably wouldn’t be as-cool. Also the
British gave us cricket, fish ‘n chips, Will Shakes, the Beatles and other cool
pop-culture stuff. Cumberbatch is one of
them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">9. Great looks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At first, I didn’t notice.
But after two episodes of Sherlock, you warm up to that dark hair, those
deep blue eyes and kissable lips. He’s
not a poster boy, nor is he a man’s man.
He’s unconventional and that’s attractive. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">8. Bad boy factor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s a cliché, but he has mastered playing the role of a villain
and a hero. Bad boy Cumberbatch is
different because he’s intelligent. If
he insulted you, that would be a complement. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">7. Sherlock Holmes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This should have been higher on the list, but I thought it
was obvious. He plays Sherlock and a bloody good version too. If you thought Downey was good, you are
mistaken. He is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s
high functioning sociopath incarnate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">6. He CAN act<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">He has this ability to transform himself into the character
he’s playing. He totally immerses
himself in the role. I watched him
portray Australian Julian Assange, with the lisp in tow. He can do a great Western American accent. His versatility is commendable. I have seen him do off-the-cuff impressions in
interviews, and it is breath-taking to watch.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">5. Harrison Ford <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I watched an episode of the Graham Norton Show with
Cumberbatch and Harrison Ford. Long story
short- Harrison Ford is a big fan of his.
Well, that settles it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">4. All in the name<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Benedict Cumberbatch- say it out loud, it packs a punch. I bet kids didn’t pick on him at school
probably because all the syllables made him sound so cool. It’s not a superstar’s name, and that adds to
the element of surprise. If it’s not
already, it will probably become a catch phrase soon- “What the Cumberbatch?” or “Check out my Cumberbatch moves” or “You’re so Cumberbatch”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">3. New leading man<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As stated before, Cumberbatch was cast in supporting roles, before he hit the big time (Sherlock). Ever since he's starred in Oscar nominated movies, one of the recent ones
being August Osage County. Also, I can’t
wait for him to take on Moriarty when the new season of Sherlock returns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">2. Anonymity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I love how he’s not famous.
(He almost turned down his role in Sherlock because he didn’t want to
become famous). He’s only popular
amongst certain circles (all the Cumberbatch fans I know are smart people- that’s
just a general observation from an objective third party person with absolutely
no personal interest in the matter). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1. Cumberbatch <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Cumberbatch-effect is this phenomenon where this British
guy who is just doing is job, gets written about and spoken about by these
strangers from all over the world. They’re not talking about him because he does
his job really well, or because of his looks or his personality. Those things are secondary. They’re talking about him because he’s
novel. You can’t compare him to the
likes of Pacino, Nicholson or Washington. He's different. He’s “other”. He’s
Cumberbatch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-35626889066915021802014-08-23T00:00:00.000+02:002014-08-24T15:08:27.561+02:00August Rush<div class="MsoNormal">
Time has this rude habit of running out on a person. The older I get, there seems to be less of it
to go around. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>This thing all things devours; Birds, beasts, trees,
flowers; Gnaws iron, bites steel; Grinds had stones to meal; slays king, ruins
town, And beats mountain down- J. R. R. Tolkein (The Hobbit).</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is one of our most valuable commodities, yet we live as
though there is an unlimited supply of it. We forget that irretrievable moments
are attached to those seconds, that keep slipping away. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is the flip-side, where we are so focused on getting
through the endless list of things we have to do within a limited
time-frame. We neglect to do the other
things that do not fall on the list.
Those things may be the difference between a great mood or a miserable
one. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are chasing a lead, and time has a head-start. The unfair disadvantage is that we are left
with the consequences of rushed decisions.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If mastering time-management is part of adulthood then I am
failing dismally. I have developed a bad
habit of scheduling time with my friends and then bailing on them to complete
other tasks. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The horror is knowing about these tasks well in advance and then
delaying them to the point where the time dedicated to them runs over to parts
scheduled for things of "lesser" importance. Those "things" often happen to be
people. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It must be because negotiations are welcome with
people. They are always open to hearing
excuses and they seem to understand, well at least they pretend to. Tasks are different. If they are not completed then they just
haunt until they finally get done. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So with the eighth month of the year entering its final
week, people start re-examining the year's resolutions. These reflections are useful for
restructuring and addressing management issues.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Living towards deadlines is never ideal. But it is so easy to get caught in that
trap. Once a task is completed, the next
one automatically springs up. We become
so self-consumed in this race. What is
the point? What is the point of trimming
the hedge when no one smells the roses?
What is the point of having friends when there is no time set aside to
see them?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Living rushed lives means we live past each other. We neglect the things that add quality to
life and we are left with regrets about wasted time. <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </em>LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-58259950164739635612014-08-08T22:34:00.001+02:002014-08-08T22:34:09.962+02:00As You AreDeath, in the beginning, makes you aware of the absence you will feel for the rest of your life. <br />
<br />
It was July of my second year, I had one last macro-economics exam left for the semester. I decided to stay at uni for the weekend to study, despite being told that my grandmother was being administered morphine to numb the pain of her bone cancer.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I thought, "Gee, I only have one exam left and then I will be able to go home and see her again within a week". That was the Friday. On that very Friday, my heart was pulling towards home but my mind was persisting to stay, with logic and discipline. The following Sunday, while I was curled up in my warm bed, I was awoken by a phone call. A phone call I wasn't ready to answer. A phone call I wish I never answered.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sure I was sad for a few days. Then there was the reassurance that she was in a better place. I didn't let it soak and become musty. I let it run through me... built the altar and left the sacrifice to burn out. But the smell of smoke lingered on me. You lose something in it, but you take something from it.<br />
<br />
The last time I saw her, I forgot. I know that the last time I saw her she was lying in a coffin... and I know the second last time I saw her she was lying in a bed. But I forget the last time I saw her as she was. And with each day I forget more and more. And I only remember the absence, what it's like when she isn't around. You lose something, but you take something else.<br />
<br />
I forgot what it feels like when she's around, but I know what it feels like when she's not around.<br />
<br />
In the past three years, more people I know have slipped out of mortality. Some of them were just acquaintances, others were friends and some were people who were dear to people that are dear to me. <br />
<br />
If people you know are dying, how different does that make you? What sets you apart? When will you stop breathing? When will your presence cease? When will your absence begin? And who will remember you as you were? <br />
<br />
You think people care about you as much as you care about yourself. You think your company is valuable and that you are leaving a significant mark on the world. Do people see you as you see yourself? As you are, you are forgettable. <br />
<br />
My grandmother was a brilliant human being, wise, kind and respectable. But those are adjectives I am comfortable using to describe her because the memories I have of her are leaving me. I don't know her smell anymore. I don't know her voice without thinking of the words she use to say. I can't remember the colour of her eyes without looking at a photograph. And if I do remember something about her, I can't trust that it is, as she was.<br />
<br />
The smoke may linger in the beginning, but it wears off. You get immersed in other smells and then you are left with hints of it that come and go, depending on the direction the wind takes.<br />
<br />
Death, in the end, is the absence you will leave behind. The absence of you, as you are.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-41623515985969961292014-07-01T11:12:00.000+02:002014-07-01T11:14:04.726+02:00Full Circle<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A year ago I was getting ready for the Absa Capital
Pioneering Young Women Conference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
scared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not know what to
expect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did not want to go
anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to psych myself up just
to move an inch out of my comfort zone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I “opened” my mind to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I put
myself “out there”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went through with
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end, it turned out to be one
of the best decisions I made for my life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
You see, for many years I dreamed of being a
journalist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted it so badly it hurt
just to think about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt like
someone had driven a knife through my heart every time I thought about writing
and how I was not doing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
angry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was miserable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was kept from the thing I loved and I was
convincing myself to make my situation work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My friends were making
adult-decisions, and I was… not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were
driven and excited about their futures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was driven and excited by socks with the days of the week on them, it worked wonders for my laundry schedule. They were all going for job interviews and I was working out a system to
categorize my rejection letters. I was failing at some standard of “life” I
created.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
And then this conference came along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like rain that came after a
drought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met some brilliant women
(whom I have already written about).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
unlocked a valuable lesson that steered me into destiny: Do what you love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
So a year later, I found myself on a plane to the Motherland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doing that very thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That thing that makes your heart beat
faster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That thing that gives you a rush
that surpasses infinities in one moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That thing that brings you to your knees with humility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
That thing that is so scary it is crippling, so you do your
best to move forward so that you do not sink into darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That thing that makes you vulnerable and
happy at the same time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
thrill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That thing you know is the right
thing, because you have never been so dependent on God’s grace for life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Sure, it takes courage to do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is because things are hard to do on your
own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But those are your dreams, no one
else’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You cannot expect someone else
to share the same passion you have for it, or to complete tasks with the same
commitment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fire is in YOUR
heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is YOUR adventure. I<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>t is what YOU love. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I have only been doing journalism for six months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I know is: I am happy when I am working,
and I am miserable when I am not working.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And even though I have three jobs and no money- I am rich in the experiences
that have grown me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Someone told me that my face lights up when I talk about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told me she wished she felt the same
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wished she loved what she was
doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do what you love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-35139919208504371462014-06-15T18:19:00.000+02:002014-06-15T18:19:25.020+02:00The Father<div style="text-align: justify;">
My dad asked if I wrote him a blog post for Father's Day. I was surprised that he asked, especially because this year I was going for the "I'd rather tell you face to face how awesome you are than take up space on the internet and propagate more anti-social behaviour" thing. But hey, writing about my dad seemed like a good opportunity to involve The Father.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>2 Corinthians 6:18 And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty. (Amplified)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There is something about a dad's approval that sets it apart from the opinions and recognition of other figures. It carries more weight and it has a greater impact on your actions than you may acknowledge. Knowing that he reads everything I publish means a lot, and I bet my brother runs a little faster just because he knows dad is watching him on the track. His criticisms count more than any complement we would get from anyone else. His complements outweigh any criticisms we would get from anyone else. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This may sound like an obvious statement, but it is as if we were designed to be fathered. Like, as soon as we were born we were made to reach out to the place we felt most safe. Like, we were made to run towards open arms. Like, we were meant to make someone proud without having to do anything extraordinary. Like, we were meant to be swept up in unconditional love without having to secure it. Like, blessings were meant to run over us without us having to do anything to earn them. Like, we were meant to be heirs of a kingdom we have not yet seen because we were born sons and daughters of a King we will see.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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My dad has set an example of the peace, grace and love my brother and I can have in The Father. For years I lived as though God was a spiritual entity, detached from me. But before I met my parents, before I felt their love, He was the first. He fathered me first. He loved me first. And the story of my life is His gracious pursuit of it. He is dad. We just do not believe it as well as we should. </div>
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We struggle to trust His words or promises because we do not think of Him as dad. Only to find, He is the Father we have spent our lives searching for. His approval, His opinions, His complements, His hopes for our lives, His infinite joy, His incomparable love, His unlimited grace; His fatherhood, that is what we are drawing towards. And He is the only one designed to fill that role flawlessly. </div>
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Medically infants cry to receive oxygen for their organs to start working, but I am convinced the real reason they cry is because they realized they were detached from dad. And they got scared because they were not sure they would ever see Him again. He knew we needed Him, so He gave us someone like Him to hold onto in the meanwhile. </div>
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Whether that person was your actual father, or whether someone else had to double up as your father, the good news is that your real dad is The Father and you can live with the hope that you will see Him again. </div>
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Thanks dad, for showing us the face of The Father. </div>
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Thanks Dad, for showing us your face through our father. </div>
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<br />LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5807785958774644101.post-20514475261350648062014-05-21T14:40:00.000+02:002014-05-21T20:47:13.364+02:00How to lose a guy in 10 minutes<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hate talking about dating, and I hate that it occupies so much space in our conversations (if you were a woman, you would know what I am talking about). But a guy told me that the first time he met me,
he thought I was crazy. Well, I have been told a number of times that I was strange. I have accepted that I am not
first impression-friendly and I am genuinely sorry for making anyone feel uncomfortable. But I am not apologizing for being me. </div>
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As a woman you are constantly judged. If you are not too needy, you are too independent. If you are not too loud, you are too quiet. If you are not too ditzy, you are too smart. If you are not too skinny, you are too fat. If you are not too pretty, you are too... nope, you can never be too pretty. Speaking of pretty, how is my pure intellect supposed to compete with that? Seriously it is insulting. </div>
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Unfortunately, first impressions last. Here is a list for you to chuckle at and nod your head in agreement, because you know as well as I do, how true this is. </div>
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First impression fails</div>
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1. You love Jesus. </div>
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You do realise this guy is going to have to compete with the unconditional love Jesus has for you. That is way too much pressure. Poor guy, let him tap out. Shem. </div>
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2. You laughed.</div>
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Maybe you genuinely thought his joke was funny, but someone told you once that you laugh like Charlie Brown (What does that even mean? You were not even sure Charlie Brown could laugh).</div>
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3. You keep talking about your brother.</div>
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What? Do you have a crush on your brother? Sure he is a nice guy, even your friends think he is cool, but after Jesus, that is one more guy in your life too many.</div>
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4. You said you want children.</div>
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Let us backtrack, at what point in an initial meeting with a guy did you think it was safe to mention procreation? With that statement you may have single-handedly ruined him for all women.</div>
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5. You are so smart, you sound stupid. </div>
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This is a common case where your mouth moves too slowly for the words to come out soon enough. So when you said "I want to be married at 25" you really meant to say "I believe that monogamy is in the best interests of society." Also, being so incredibly smart alienates you socially, learn to live with it.</div>
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6. You are not smart enough. </div>
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Okay, you are smarter than the average girl, but this guy happens to be a genius in a field you find useless. There are only so many times you can nod your head in agreement and say "wow" before he realises you are a fraud, and not in the Mike Ross way.</div>
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7. You said nothing the whole time.</div>
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This after you heard him specifically tell a friend that he does not notice girls who do not engage him in conversation. </div>
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8. You thought it was cool that he knew all the words to Katy Perry songs.</div>
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His boyfriend thinks so too. This is a classic case of misdirection. Now it is your turn to tap out. Honey, you would not even know how to begin to compete. Trust me, this is not your guy. </div>
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9. You had your serious face on.</div>
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Yes you are having a hard week, there are tests and assignments, but all he is wondering is, "Is she constipated? " You probably are, mentally. But your game face just gives off "Bitch I will cut you!" vibes.</div>
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10. You did not wear make-up.</div>
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Sure, you are all for natural beauty, besides you have sensitive skin. But he does not care about your allergies. He cannot look into your almond shaped eyes if they are not framed with eyeliner and he can not kiss chapped lips (Gross- would you?). All those girls, Emma Stone, Jessica Alba and Rachel Weisz use Revlon for their blemishes. (Seriously though? You thought natural beauty was a thing?) </div>
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11. You wore clothes.</div>
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Maybe if you pranced around naked, more guys would open doors for you. You would certainly get more attention.</div>
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12. You left your hair curly.</div>
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I know you like curls and the sleek look is generic and overdone. But he cannot run his fingers through your hair. Screeches are not romantic. Besides, why would he make an effort if you did not?</div>
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13. You are not easy.</div>
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You are too much effort. He was trying to flirt but you could not pick up his hints because you thought he had a cold which made his voice sound like that, or maybe there was something in his eye because he was winking so much. It is like when you have to explain a joke to someone, once you unpack a punchline, it is just not funny anymore. </div>
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14. You punched him.</div>
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Ooh, too soon. So, you were so desperate to touch him, the only way you knew how was to punch him?! </div>
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15. You are that girl.</div>
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You know, the cool one. But he does not know yet because his 10 minutes are up. If he could not stick around for you for more than 10 minutes, then he probably was not worth your time anyway. </div>
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So, do not be sorry about someone who was not man enough to accept the challenge that is you. </div>
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Do not be sorry about someone who prejudged you before he got
to know you better. </div>
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Be sorry about compromising your character to impress someone with whom you might not have a future. And be sorry about not valuing the freedom of being yourself. </div>
LMZ OhMaG'http://www.blogger.com/profile/07648027146939266023noreply@blogger.com1