This is why America hates Hollywood.
Late night "funny" man Jimmy Kimmel delivered a heart-wrenching monologue Monday night that every mother and every father could relate to.
In the emotion-drunk moments last month after the birth of their son — still in the hospital room surrounded by nurses and euphoric family — he and his wife watched their boy turn blue and got the terrifying news that something was wrong with his heart. Or lungs. Or both.
Mr. Kimmel called it the "longest three hours of my life" as more nurses and doctors and machines crowded into the room and his little infant boy was cut open for emergency open-heart surgery. Which, thank the Lord, was successful.
Understandably, Mr. Kimmel could not get through the story without breaking down in tears throughout the telling.
And then his monologue went horribly awry.
That is not to say he didn't also lie and claim to be above partisan politics — even as he was pushing exactly that.
Actually Jim, if you were a "decent person," you would shut your fat trap about partisan politics and go care for your kid, who just nearly died, you elitist creep.
? Charles Hurt can be reached at churt@washingtontimes.com; follow him on Twitter via @charleshurt.


text:
International Conference "Russia in the eyes of Vietnamese Russian scientists: Humanistic aspects"
"Russia - a great, generous, loving country with the largest area in the world. The country has a long-standing culture of myths, fairy tales, famous folk songs, dances and architectural works, immortal works of art by genius artists. "...Russia in the eyes of Russian scientists Vietnam is such a country and that is the meaning of the International Conference "Russia in the eyes of Vietnamese Russian scientists: Humanistic aspects" organized by the Institute of European Studies under the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences in collaboration with the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vietnam and the Russian Center for Science and Culture on December 10, 2021 at the 3D Hall, Headquarter 1A, Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
The seminar was honored to welcome Mr. Bezdetko Gennady - Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation in Vietnam; Mr. Stapanov Victor, Director of the Center for Russian Science and Culture in Vietnam; Ms. Golikova Vera, Officer of the Center for Russian Science and Culture in Hanoi; Mr. Fokin Stanislav, Counselor of the Russian Embassy in Vietnam; Mr. Nilov Roman, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vietnam; Ms. Fesenko Valeria 3rd Secretary of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vietnam; Mr. Pham The Vinh, Mr. Doan Hoang Minh (Deputy Director of the European Department), representatives of the Central Committee for External Relations; Mr. To Anh Dung, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam; Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Minh, Deputy Director of the Department of International Cooperation - Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam; Assoc.Prof.Dr. Do Huong Lan, Deputy Director of Innovation Center - National Economics University; Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh, former Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi; Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Dat, Director of Pushkin Institute; Dr. Nguyen Tuan Viet, Dean of Faculty of International Politics and Diplomacy, Diplomatic Academy; Mr. Le Ngoc Dinh, Deputy Director of International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr. Nguyen Dang Phat, General Secretary of the Vietnam - Russia Friendship Association, Editor-in-Chief of Bach Duong Magazine… Workshop Led by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nguyen Chien Thang - Director of the Institute of European Studies and Dr. Vu Thuy Trang - Director of CIS Research Center co-chaired.
Commenting on Russia's position in the Asia-Pacific region under President Putin, Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union, during the first period from 1991-2000, political President Yeltsin's authority advocated leaning towards the West, but since 2000 when President Putin came to power. In his 2002 State of the Union address, President Putin emphasized, "For a large country like Russia, it is impossible to orientate to the East, the West, the South or the North because that is against the interests of the people. Russian ethnicity. Russia has a multilateral policy and this policy will be maintained.
According to another study, energy cooperation between Russia and the Asia-Pacific is no different from a "fish to water" between the world's largest oil and gas exporter on the one hand and the region with fast-growing but energy-deficient economies. In which, China - Russia cooperation in energy is still the dominant color, especially the 2013 oil agreement between Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC); The 2014 Power of Siberia gas agreement between Gazprom and CNPC and a large number of Chinese enterprises invests in and Novatek's Liquefied Natural Gas projects on the Yamal and Gydan peninsulas in the Arctic…
Assessing the Russia - ASEAN dialogue partnership, Dr. Vu Thuy Trang commented: 2021 marks an important milestone in the journey of 30 years of establishing relations and 25 years of Russia-ASEAN dialogue partnership. Over the years of history, the two sides have worked together to improve all relations, draw closer together to bring cooperation to a new level. The return of Russia in Asia in general and Southeast Asia in particular in the recent period and in the coming years depends greatly on the results of economic reform and opening up as well as the Eastward strategy and economic capacity. economy of Russia. The desire to become the nucleus in the integration process in the Asia-Pacific region will be the driving force for Russia to pay more attention to this region and consider ASEAN as a region of top importance in the war. foreign policy of the Russian Federation.
In the context of the prolonged and increasingly complicated Covid-19 pandemic, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Do Huong Lan has always believed in the positive signals emanating from the Russian economy. She said that by the end of 2020, Russia's GDP decreased by 3%, but in the first half of 2021, the data obtained from the General The Russian Federal Bureau of Statistics has shown that the economy has grown by 4.8%, which indicates that Russia's recovery has reached pre-crisis levels of the Covid-19 pandemic and is on track. growth. The bright spot in the Russian economy under the impact of the pandemic is that Russia's foreign trade surplus in 2020 far exceeds negative expectations in the first wave of Covid-19; New business opportunities also arise during the pandemic. Especially in the field of e-commerce as well as trading in equipment for remote working, including the need for miniature printers, the demand for audio devices has also increased significantly... However, in the near future, in the short term, Russia also needs to control the pandemic and increase the vaccination rate because currently Russia's vaccination rate is low compared to middle-income countries. and high income in the world. Otherwise, Russia's economic activity will likely continue to be disrupted. In addition, Russia also needs to improve the sustainability of the index of free trade and investment freedom if the Russian Federation wants to benefit from globalization and international economic integration.
Besides the outstanding issues, the Workshop also spent a lot of time discussing cultural exchange relations between Russia and Vietnam; issues related to teaching Russian in schools and universities in Vietnam. Proposing solutions to attract Russian language learners and overcome difficulties in teaching and learning Russian in Vietnam Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Dat, director of the Pushkin Institute, said that there should be more practical policies to encourage them. learners and teachers of the Russian language; Compilation of a new generation of ethnic-oriented textbooks for Vietnamese students starting from grade 3 to the end of grade 12 on the basis of the first Russian foreign language general education program (10-year system). promulgated by the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam in July 2021; Compiling textbooks for teaching Russian as a foreign language, specialized Russian language textbooks for Vietnamese learners; Appointing Russian experts to directly participate in teaching at educational institutions, high schools and universities in Vietnam; promote propaganda and promotion activities for young people to understand more about Russian culture, country, people and customs, love the Russian language and have a desire to enjoy Russian education...
It can be seen that in the context that the strategic partnership between Russia and Vietnam is increasingly being promoted in all aspects, the deep penetration of each country's languages and cultures with each other is a necessity. . This is the basis for countries to better understand their partners, the basis for developing international relations more comprehensively and deeply.
Summarizing the opinions discussed at the Workshop, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nguyen Chien Thang highly appreciated the comments and said that this is an important basis for the two sides to establish closer relations in the coming time. With the historical comrade-and-brother relationship, cooperation through new agreements between the two governments as well as more attention and focus on cooperation in the fields of research and training. Training in the fields of social sciences and humanities will make practical contributions to the development of relationships, serving the tasks of socio-economic development and national security and defense of both countries. Because of that, the workshop has obtained many good results, helping delegates of the two sides have a better overview of Russia-Vietnam cooperation, making relevant recommendations to strengthen and deepen the relationship between the two countries. comprehensive cooperation relationship between Vietnam and the Russian Federation, further proud of the friendly relations that the two sides already have.
Pham Vinh Ha
Date: 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031 123456789101112 20132014201520162017201820192020202120222023

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Odissi dancer Aruna Mohanty shows at the opening performance of Nrityodaya Charitable Trust's three-day Nrityolsavam at Chandravadan Mehta Auditorium (March 22) in Vadodara what it takes to be different and recognized. In both her performances, Sansara and Pratinayaka, there were familiar episodes, one from the human lifecycle and the other from our metaphoric myths. They were presented in an idiom - in terms of abhinaya and interpretation - the modern mind could understand.
With these elements she built the viewers' confidence in her in the short introductory piece Sansara. On her part, the confidence emanates from the mastery of the technique that gives her felicity in the use of its vocabulary and from an alert mind that makes her presentation intelligible. With the musical syllables ta na de re na supporting the mystery of the lifecycle she just gives glimpses of childhood, adolescence, youth, old age and the inevitable end with the traits attending them. Suggesting that only the soul leaves the body, in continuity she ushers in the philosophy of advaita with Shankaracharya's Bhaja Govindam. With the suggestion of all directions, the limitless space above and a withdrawing puny body, its melting into the all-pervading universal consciousness gets conveyed, economically and so tellingly.
Her Pratinayaka is significant in its conception and performance. Nayaka and Pratinayaka exist in every human being - he is bafflingly created with these contradictions within him - and they coexist in the universe as well. Puffed-up, he goes to the extent of daring the Creator and asserting, 'I am because you are.' Pratinayaka plays up this duality, different from bipolarity, with a high sense of drama within the bounds of aesthetic control. Pratinayaka is not the antihero of the western concept. He is a prototype of Nayaka.
Dancer-choreographer Aruna engagingly portrays in her smoothly flowing solo performance the battles between the divine and evil elements fought across epochs - between Hiranyakashipu and Prahlada (Satya Yuga), Rama and Ravana (Treta Yuga) and Krishna and Kansa (Dwapara Yuga). The evil, fierce in proportion, gets vanquished and Truth triumphant. Finally, the battle extends to Kali Yuga, which is ongoing. Man is intoxicated with the transient and illusory power that possessions and passions give.
Ayswaria Wariar, founder-director of Nrityodaya School of Dance, presented a Mohiniattam solo Bhoomiputri Seeta from her longer choreographic work Mandodari-Seeta. She brings the flavour of Kerala in her dance with the Sopanam music, a predominantly off-white costume, a rich Manipravalam text and the slow-paced lyrical lasya abhinaya characteristic of the form that becomes an appropriate medium for the nayika of Bhoomiputri Seeta, also choreographed by her. Shiva Prasad's vocal recital in his compositions lends a strong support to Ayswaria's portrayal of Seeta and the values she represents.
The theme has an affinity with that of the Odissi dance earlier presented in a larger context. Ravana bloated with his power and seeking indulgence in more desires is in combat metaphorically and in reality with the Uttama Nayaka Rama, a Sooryavanshi by descent and dheera-gambheera in his demeanour. Seeta repulses the devilish designs of Ravana. 'My mind and soul are with Lord Rama,' she tells the antagonist in no uncertain terms, 'and if you try to take my body, made up of panchamahabhoota, I will put an end to it.' The world with the evil in it is illusory and perishable, her character establishes, it is the divine that is constant.
Her five students (Arunima, Vrunda, Shagun, Veen, Krishika) presented Maya Mohanam pretty well. It included Draupadi Vastraharana, Geetopadesha and Gajendramoksha under her choreography and K N Panicker's verbal portrayal. This short piece reaffirms the supremacy of the all-pervading element of the divine.


text:
THIS_DIR=$(readlink -f $(dirname $0))

# Каталог GCONSOLE
if [ -z ${GCONSOLE_HOME+x} ]; then
  GCONSOLE_HOME=$(readlink -f $THIS_DIR/..)
  export GCONSOLE_HOME
#else
fi

# Каталог с jar файлами
JARS_DIR=$GCONSOLE_HOME/jars

# Каталог с groovy скриптами
GROOVY_DIR=$GCONSOLE_HOME/src/main/groovy

# Каталог с ресурсами
RESOURCE_1_DIR=$GCONSOLE_HOME/src/main/resources

# Файл настроек лога
LOG_PROPERTIES=$GROOVY_DIR/xyz/cofe/gconsole/logging.properties

# поиск jar
CP=$(find $JARS_DIR -name '*.jar' | tr '\n' ':')

# добавление каталога с groovy скриптами
CP=$CP:$GROOVY_DIR:$RESOURCE_1_DIR:$GCONSOLE_HOME/src/main/adm

if [ -z ${JAVA_OPTS+x} ]; then
	JAVA_OPTS=""
fi

JAVA_OPTS="$JAVA_OPTS -Djava.util.logging.config.file=$LOG_PROPERTIES"

# alternative DNS server
# JAVA_OPTS="$JAVA_OPTS -Dsun.net.spi.nameservice.nameservers=8.8.8.8"
# JAVA_OPTS="$JAVA_OPTS -Dsun.net.spi.nameservice.provider.1=dns,sun"

java $JAVA_OPTS -cp $CP groovy.lang.GroovyShell -e "xyz.cofe.gconsole.GConsole.main(args)" "$@"

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
True Success: A Personal Visit with John Wooden
A player is only as good as his coach. The late, legendary basketball coach John Wooden talks with Dennis Rainey in an interview from 2002 about the thrills and challenges of his highlight-filled coaching career starting with what it was like growing up in the Midwest in the 1920s.
Coaching Pressure
with John Wooden
Legendary basketball coach John Wooden tells Dennis Rainey about the thrills and challenges of his highlight-filled coaching career in an interview from 2002. View Show Notes →
Growing Up Wooden
In an interview from 2002, Dennis Rainey talks with the late, legendary basketball coach John Wooden about what it was like growing up in the Midwest in the 1920s. View Show Notes →
Meet Series Guests
Coach John Wooden was named The Greatest Coach Ever by Sporting News and Coach of the Century by ESPN. He won 10 NCAA championships as Head Coach of men's basketball at UCLA. Since then, his wisdom, summarized most famously in his Pyramid of Success, has reinforced his status as a modern-day legend. His memorable mottos, unforgettable turns of phrase and timeless, sage advice have enriched countless lives.
John Wooden died in 2010.


A student in Maryland allegedly admitted to devouring his roommate's brain and heart.
Alexander Kinyua, a 21-year-old Morgan State University student, admitted to murdering his roommate Kujoe Bonsafo Agyei-Kodie, who was reported missing last Friday, cops told the Baltimore Sun.
Kinyua's father called police late Tuesday night when Kinyua's brother reportedly found human remains — a head and two hands — in a metal tin in the basement. The brother and father left the room for a short time, but when they came back, the body parts had been moved and Kinyua was washing out the tin, the paper reported.
Officers searched the house and arrested Kinyua. The man allegedly confessed a shocking revelation: not only had he killed Agyei-Kodie by cutting him up with a knife and then dismembered him, he ingested parts of the victim's brain and all of his heart. He then allegedly dropped most of the remains in a Dumpster behind a church in Joppatowne.
It's yet unclear what Kinyua's motive may have been, but he was charged with first-degree murder on Wednesday. In another incident on May 20, he was charged with first-degree assault when he allegedly beat a fellow student randomly with a baseball bat and then fled into the woods.


In addition to the normal weekly efforts of ALL our volunteers who do such an amazing job at PCC, some of them have recently taken it up a notch in our building and campus improvements. Without attempting to mention all the names, because I would surely leave someone out, I would like to give a shout out to…..
All those who have been mowing our grounds making them look so beautiful. It is inspiring to see people who take pride in their church and campus grounds. This brings honor to God when His people work so hard to make the place look so good. I really appreciate the attention to detail too.
Those who have improved Connors Park (our picnic area) over the winter by building the new picnic tables, a serving table, hauling away the old debris, and making the benches around the fire-pit. We will get plenty of good ministry use from this area because of your efforts and commitment to a standard of excellence in your craftsmanship.
The man who built and installed a new broom closet in our building. This was desperately needed, and it too was done to a standard of excellence.
The two teenage girls who repainted the walls in room 3, giving it a much needed facelift. They did this while on their spring break…. amazing.
Those who installed the acoustic panels and new stage lights in the sanctuary. It was a definite improvement and upgrade.
Those who come every single week to clean our santurary, clean all the chairs, the atrium, bathrooms, and kitchen, so that we can worship in a clean environment on the Lord's Day.
The lady who personally orders and purchases the beautiful customized pens that are placed in the card holders.
All of you, as well as everyone else who labors tirelessly at PCC, exemplify what I was talking about in last Sunday's message…. bringing honor to God by the way we do our jobs. You labor because of your conscience towards God, not for the praises of men. Your efforts are a major contribution to PCC and are noticed.
A friend of mine, Bobby Lepinay, fellow pastor and church planter in Pensacola, lost a staff member this week. Will Pufall died suddenly and unexpectedly over the weekend. This is a very tragic loss. He was a beloved friend and servant of their church. Will has been with Bobby since the founding of Harvest Church, and served on staff as their worship pastor, as well as a variety of other responsibilities.
You can read Bobby's blog here.
.... Jack Bauer that is. The weekly program "24" is about to come on. I'm sitting in my easy chair just waiting for Jack to save the US goverment once again!
Good day. Attendance was back up (from last Sunday which began spring break).
I started losing my voice in second service. Apparently I am not totally back from my cold/flu.
Today's message was "Take This Job & Love It" based upon 1 Peter 2:18-25. We learned how our lives can glorify God if we are good employees, do a good job, and even suffer for doing good… following the example of Christ.
No fewer than one dozen people spoke to me after service expressing how the message spoke to them in some special way. This really surprised me because "talking about work" isn't such an exciting subject. Plus I was very weak physically, and I don't think my delivery was that good. But it underscores the point that God honors His Word and it accomplishes what He intends it to do…even in our weaknesses.
Hearing things like this never gets old.
The motorcycle riders group met at church today for an afternoon ride. I think they even had some guests in service with them. It was pretty impressive to see all those choppers in the parking lot, and exciting to hear them all crank up at the same time. I hope they had a good day together….
Our security measures are improving. We taking some serious steps in regard to security, inside and outside.
Consider this: Think about the power of a life COMPLETELY SURRENDERED to GOD. What would God do with such a person?
BTW, God's Word is not a suggestion or recommendation, but instructions and commands for His people to obey. The KEY to living in freedom is HEARING God's voice (from His Word) and then DOING what it says.
If God is not FIRST PLACE in every area of our lives, then He is not first place.
In two weeks we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ!
The new acoustic panels seemed to help with sound control.
Next Sunday we're having communion and special prayer. I'm anticipating a breakthrough.
This week has been one of the most difficult weeks in recent memory! I have caught some kind of cold or flu that was like getting an old fashioned spanking! It really packed a wallop. Aside from being sick, I have been barely able to talk and have been very weak. I've been pacing myself hoping that my voice will hold out long enough to make it through this weekend. On top of this I've worked longer work hours than normal due to two/three projects that Pastor Gene and I were working on in the sanctuary (hanging acoustic panels and additional stage lights). We also had a video project to complete. Then there were two deaths connected to our church family and one funeral to attend. To top it all off, I also heard this week (from a new and recent attender in our church) that a certain individual is still spreading malicious lies about PCC in the community to anyone who will listen. (To this family's credit, they did not allow themselves to be affected by this nonsense, choosing instead to "consider the source." They are happy with PCC. But it got me to wondering how much of this is still going on, perhaps affecting others). To say this inflames my indignation would be an understatement. I know who this person is, and I am certain there is going to be a very painful encounter in my future. Enough is enough already! Should the providence of God not allow this to happen, I will simply rest in the knowledge that "if God be for us, then who can be against us" (Romans 8:31).
All that junk aside, I must say that I am feeling a lot better today. My strength has returned and my mind is clear…… and I'm ready to ROCK!
This Sunday's sermon is "TAKE THIS JOB & LOVE IT!" Oh yea, we're going to have fun with this one! It might get pretty heavy at times too.
I just might use a hand-held microphone this Sunday and pace back-and-forth across the stage like a caged lion…. or a Pentecostal preacher! (I used to preach like that, you know).
You may not realize this, (or even believe it), because it's easy to get used to people (and become too "familiar" with them) – but our church really does have one of the best music ministries to be found far-and-wide. I know of dozens of churches who run double our attendance, double our staff, and have double our finances, who would LOVE TO HAVE our musicians and singers in THEIR church. And if they ever try to steal any of them away from us… I will be giving somebody an uppercut to the chin!
PCC, what God is doing at PCC right now is amazing. Miracles of life change are occurring all the time. The hundreds of stories that are taking place simply boggle the mind.
Our staff, volunteers, and ministry leaders are simply the best. The ministry TEAMS we have working with us right now are the best WE HAVE EVER HAD. If it took a pruning (like occurred 14 months ago) to get us to this place, I would gladly go through it again. It has been worth it.
BTW, Satan is really ticked off at PCC right now!
Let's just say the last couple of weeks have been some of the most crazy, intense, and stressful times in the history of PCC. Any time we go to a whole-nutha-level, it also means we face whole-nutha-level-of DEVILS!
BTW, I've never met a devil yet that wasn't wearing somebody's shoes.
As much as I hate dealing with things I've had to deal with, I also love it! I'm glad that Satan is ticked off at PCC. I am LOCKED and LOADED and READY for the CRAZY RIDE that God is taking us on in 2009.
So far this year I have experienced some of the most rewarding times ever at PCC. When God is moving look for Satan to do anything he can do to disrupt things.
I am JACKED UP about this next season at PCC.
Ever feel it in your bones? That's what I'm experiencing right now. I woke up this morning and I've got this feeling that God is about to do something VERY BIG. It's not about me, it's not about PCC – it's about HIM. It might not even be this Sunday… but I've go this feeling that God is going to SHOW HIMSELF MIGHTY in our behalf. I am eleven years into this work, and I can show you over and over again that when things start getting crazy, spiritual warfare begins taking place in high places… and you just know GOD IS ABOUT TO DO SOMETHNG BIG! Fasten your seat-belts.
Here's the crazy thing – it actually EXCITES me! It pumps me up because I know God is about to do something big. I can just feel it. God is about to SHAKE THINGS UP. I love the fact that we are DOING what others said COULD NOT be done. I love it that the critics are out there in full force trying to discredit us. I love it when people, who are bound for hell, meet the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
I'm getting JACKED UP about EASTER. It is going to be a DAY OF LIFE-CHANGE for someone you know.
I've been thinking about some of the people who have left PCC in the past. I (kind of) feel sorry for them because they made an investment in this church…. and now they are missing a move of God. They are missing out on the very thing we all dreamed would happen. It's sad. But maybe they didn't share the vision after all.
Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight" (Matt. 11:25-26).
Pray that we stay focused on the vision that God has given us by not allowing mission drift to set in.
Pray for our staff and key ministry leaders. I believe we have the greatest team that a church could have. You will never know the amount of work they put in to make PCC what it is today. And that includes ALL our volunteers as well. Pray for them, their families, and their relationship with God.
Pray that our people will have courage and strength to invite their friends and family members to church with them. You are the best EVANGELISTS we have. It's better than any marketing or advertising we could ever purchase.
Pray that PCC is effective in penetrating and reaching our community. That is exactly why we exist. I could care less about the people in other churches who do not like the way we do things. They've got a problem. I don't. Besides, we're not trying to reach them anyway. Nor are we trying to win their approval. We are trying to reach people who are far from God and then turn them into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
Pray that I stay close to God – on a personal level, and as a shepherd. I've grown a lot over the last ten years, and I've also made some boneheaded mistakes. But God has protected me, and us. As I continue to mature in faith, I want to stay close to Him.
Pray for my family. They are my FIRST ministry. Pastors and their families live in a fish bowl, and we can't go anywhere that we're not in somebody's headlights… being critiqued for how we look, dress, or appear in public. We can't always remember everyone's names when we bump into you at Wal-Mart. We can't always live up to your expectations either. So cut us a little slack. We are a regular family and don't walk on water.
Pray that I say focused and hear from God often. It's easy for me to get distracted by the pinhead critics out there who are deliberately trying to ruin PCC out of jealous motives (or because of demon possession). When I spend too much time focusing on those things, Satan wins. Sometimes a response is called for… but preoccupation with these mental-midgets pulls me away from my main responsibility.
Man, am I ever sick! I've caught some kind of cold and it has got me beat. I was losing my voice last Sunday, but it has gotten worse this week. I'm just hoping I can hold on long enough and make it through this Sunday.
On top of that we have experienced two deaths in our church in the last 24 hours - one in Renae's family and the other with Laura Harman. Laura's husband, Kenny, died of a sudden heart attack yesterday.
Studies show that one of the greatest fears people have is that of public speaking. It is universal. For me, there is nothing more exciting, humbling, enjoyable, and sometimes frightening, than standing up in a room full of people to teach from the Bible. I get to do this every weekend in the best church in the world.
1. Outsiders. Every Sunday is someone's first Sunday. In that crowd of hundreds of people there are unbelievers, the irreligious, and those who have not yet embraced Christ. To them the Bible is a closed book – and not part of their world. But they are in the service, meaning their heart must be beginning to open up to the things of God. And I have the amazing privilege of preaching the gospel to people who may be hearing this stuff for the very first time… it's like planting seed in fertile ground. The thrill factor for me is off the chart when I see this happening.
2. Insiders. Then there are the regular PCCers in the audience. These are people who have embraced Christ, and keep coming back week after week because they love their church. As growing believers, they are looking for something to help them know God deeper, follower God better, and hear from God clearer. They need strong meat to grow.
3. God. God is most important listener in audience. As such I have to always be sure that I am handling God's Word skillfully, and not misrepresenting Him in any way. James chapter 1 says that people should not rush to be preachers/teachers of God's Word because we will be judged more harshly than others – something I have always been mindful of my entire ministry. That's a warning for anyone who teaches God's Word. My most important critic is not the Monday morning blogger, but God Himself. At the end of the day, above and beyond everyone else, He is the One I have to please. In that sense, I'm talking to an audience of One.
On any given Sunday morning across America, more Americans will attend church services than will attend all major sporting events for an entire year combined. No, that's not a typo. I wrote it correctly. It is a statistical fact. That means more people will be in churches listening to a pastor teach God's Word than all major sporting events (for an entire year) combined.
The pastors of all these churches influence a myriad of believers, who are living healthy lives because of their godly example. Often their work is not even acknowledged. Yet this world would be much worse off without them.
Doesn't it seem ironic that at a time when politicians are recognizing we need a SPIRITUAL CURE many Christian people are acting like government is the cure?
It is a great privilege and fearful responsibility to be a servant in a local church. If I didn't believe this role gave me the best chance of making a difference in people's lives, I'd be doing something else.
The Church of Jesus Christ is the most noble and effective concept ever created; founded by God Himself. Despite all her faults (due to our sinfulness) it is God's chosen instrument of blessing for the last two thousand years. The Church has survived persecution, widespread abuse, has built more schools, hospitals, and orphanages, and has done more to relieve human suffering than any other institution or organization in the earth!
Serving in the work of God (in any capacity) is worth giving our lives for.
1. What brought you to Pace Community Church?
2. Why did you come back?
What brought you to PCC?
Mom invited me to come.
My parents told us about PCC, so we tried it and loved it.
Because of your church's emphasis of reaching out into the community.
The need to be closer to God.
We have enjoyed the messages, the music, and the overall friendly atmosphere. The small group we are in is an absolute blessing. We just feel like this church could be our church home and give us a chance to serve God.
My favorite part is how the scriptures are explained… not just read. I welcome the chance to understand the Word!
This church is just what we were looking for.
After we came for the first time, we just knew it was for us.
I think God kept telling me to keep going back to PCC.
I enjoy the friendship and fellowship of the members at PCC.
I found openness where I could worship freely.
I enjoyed pastor Ron's sermons… plus he's an Army Ranger.
It should be pointed out that the #1 reason people come to PCC for the first time is because they are invited by someone who already attends. Not marketing, not advertising - but word-of-mouth. That speaks well of our church (i.e., our members love their church and can't wait to get their friends there), and it speaks well of our members (i.e., they are actively involved in the evangelism/outreach process). Wow!
Here it is eleven years later. We are strong, healthy, and still growing. We've had a good run.
To every PCCer out there – past, present, and future – thanks for being a part of the journey. God be glorified, because He has done great things.
Statistics and numbers are good to know in any church. We use them at PCC and make no apology for it. We often talk about the numbers of souls saved, marriages put back together, baptisms, and new adult members, etc. They provide us with critical information about PCC and help us to plan, improve our systems, and upgrade our ministries. But it is the stories that paint the true picture of PCC. I'm talking about stories of real people, with real issues, who have experienced real life-change. These stories open a window into a person's life and reveal the operation of God.
At PCC I hear wonderful stories all the time of what God is doing or has done in someone's family. There are hundreds of these stories. Each one is a miracle. I wish you could hear them all. In fact, I don't even hear them all – there are so many. They occur everywhere; in our small groups' ministry… in our children's ministry… in our teen ministry… in the Sunday morning services…. in your homes… everywhere. Many are dramatic and leave me stunned. Others are less earth shaking. But all of them are amazing. More importantly, they are occurring all the time in a myriad of ways. This is simply God doing what He does – delivering His people and all those who will place their trust in Him.
During December of last year we filmed some testimonies of people in our church family who had stories to tell and used them in the Sunday services. Then there was the cardboard testimony service. Another eye-opener. These stories were deeply moving. Yet they barely scratched the surface of how wide-spread the operation of God is in our church family.
You have a story to tell too.
One man said to me, "This church has saved my life." Now, I know what he meant when he said it. I realize this statement was not "theologically correct." It was actually "God" that saved his life. Right? But this was a wonderful insight into his life – a relatively new believer who is bursting with gratitude because of a total turnaround in his life and his family. If you knew his story, your chin would hit the floor…. and you would understand why he said it the way he did. It's just another example of God's amazing grace.
There are so many other stories yet to be told…. and others are being written right now. Pace Community Church is a living miracle. Know why? Because so many miracles are taking place in our church family.
PCC's membership class, the membership covenant, and the accountability to it are the reasons we are a vibrant church. It is why our members (partners) are so willing to sacrifice so much in service to others. Imagine a church that went 8 ½ years without a permanent building of their own, setting up and tearing down every Sunday week-after-week, regardless of the weather. The level of commitment that people live up to is an indication of a church's health.
The fact is, for eleven years now, from the first day of our church, we have diligently practiced church discipline, using the historic practice of covenants (we have multiple), have a required membership (partners) class, offer small groups, and last summer even taught an introductory level systematic theology class called "Foundations." All of this has resulted in a high level of dedication to Christ, commitment to the local church, and personal spiritual growth. I would be willing to match any 200 members from PCC to any 200 members of any other church in terms of spiritual maturity, godliness, scripture memorization, serving in ministry, and being engaged in actual missions.
We take membership, and participation in a local church family, very seriously at PCC – and people who do not abide by the covenant are disciplined and removed. It is Biblical to do this, and we don't have a problem carrying it out. We have done so for eleven years, and the end result for us is a healthy, vibrant church. There is no such thing as an "inactive" member at PCC – which is a contradiction of terms.
Never believe second-hand information about PCC from our critics – it comes from people who have never attended with us (and what they say is always wrong), or, from former members who were disciplined (who now have an agenda). Most of these people have ZERO idea of what PCC is really like.
What many people are not fully aware of is that over the last decade, at a time when most churches were plateaued or declining, PCC has continued to grow in attendance, new adult members, baptisms, small group participation, commitment to spiritual maturity, and conversions to Christ. I don't believe there is another church in the area with a more mature membership than PCC – all because of our emphasis upon the Bible itself and the covenants we hold people to.
Okay. I am beat. Two services today – in storming, raining weather – and four more hours on stage teaching the 101 Seminar has got me worn out. I'm experiencing a holy hangover right now.
Attendance was good today, in spite of the miserable weather. About 480 in attendance – not too bad for a day when the weather was like Noah's flood.
The morning message – We're in This Together – was timely and solidly Biblical. We talked about being "living stones" who "build up a spiritual house" and being called members in a "holy priesthood" unto God.
The CHURCH (that's you, God's people) is God's PLAN for spreading the gospel in the earth. Jesus didn't say He would build His 501 (c)3 non-profit organization, or build His man-made denominations. He said He would build His CHURCH. If you are a believer and you are not a participating member of a local church family, you are missing God's will for your life.
Some forty people showed up for Seminar 101. There was a lot of excitement and buy-in tonight. After eleven years, I am still totally amazed how God brings people to PCC, and after sharing the vision/mission/strategy with them, they "get it." Totally amazing.
I've got to say that our hospitality servants stepped up and took it to a whole-nutha-level tonight. I was impressed, as were our new members. You guys did an awesome job…. and I can't tell you how humbled I am to serve with such great people. I am also very proud of you. I don't think anyone could do it better than you did tonight…. you raised the bar tonight. I appreciate your selfless sacrifice.
It was an UH-MAZING day today.
I'm glad PCC is made up of a lot of people who understand the difference between SERVICE and SERVE US.
Hundreds of names have been turned in for prayer – and we are praying for every one of them.
As I preached today I think I was bringing the heat!
Somebody turned in a card today saying they came to church because they met a couple in Wal-Mart (who attend PCC) and invited them. Wow! What's not to like about that? Hey, when members of PCC are inviting people to church who they happened to meet in a Wal-Mart, then you know good things are happening!
Easter is just around the corner. Before Easter we will be receiving communion, having a church workday, and praying hard for the lost to find Christ.
I've been so busy the last couple of weeks that I feel like I am drowning.
I'm loving daylight savings time.
We are stepping up our security measures in church right now. Once it is formalized and finalized, I will share with the congregation the measures we are taking.
In the seminar tonight a lady approached me and said, "I'm so thankful that my husband is now attending PCC. I prayed for him for years to come, and finally he came and has committed to Christ. Now he is here in this membership class." I've got to say, this never gets old to me.
The Bible does not change your life if it you approach it academically. It is the APPLICATION of the Bible that changes your life. In other words, being a DOER of the Word.
This year we will be upgrading our weekend services. A lot of changes will be taking place. We plan to change the graphics on the wall behind the stage with a new theme monthly, or bi-monthly. More use of in-house video. We are also constructing sound-dampening panels to be mounted on the side and rear walls of the sanctuary to help create a better (studio) sound in the services. These panels will be decorative and come in two colors.
I've got my eyes open for a pastor of discipleship.
It doesn't matter how many people who DON'T buy into the vision. What does matter is how many that DO! Those are the people I work with.
Everyone is Someone who will spend eternity Somewhere.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You can rise through the ranks by sheer force of ability and personality…. regardless of what your education is, or regardless of what the organizational flow chart says. Just become a "get it done" kind of person, and you'll get your promotion.
Once again it has become very apparent to me (in the last several weeks) how temperamental some professional church hoppers really are.
During this period of time that they are "still trying to decide" if we meet their approval or not, they are enjoying the benefits of this ministry – essentially eating at the table for free and taking the best we have to offer. And they expect me to just stand there and just take it with a straight face and loving smile as they regurgitate that attitude of superiority on me (because that's what pastors are supposed to do, I guess). They usually don't like my response. It's like they believe they can say anything they want... critique, criticize, evaluate, imply disapproval, and expect me to ingratiate myself to them. But the moment I express my view on the matter, well, the fertilizer hits the fan. They instantly disfellowship me, stop speaking to me, write ugly letters, or stick their nose up. It's like they expect those conversations to be one-side - they're allowed to say anything they want but I shouldn't speak back into that very same situation (that they raised). I don't play that game. And I don't mind telling them what they need (but don't want) to hear!
People like that are burdensome. It is very draining to keep making investments into shallow church hoppers who never commit.
Still trying to decide? I can help you.
This is meat for men. Don't read it if you can't hack it.
How important is conflict resolution for the believer? It is essential, and God takes it very serious. It is necessary for personal growth, health, and proving the authenticity of ones Christianity. Notice I didn't ask about conflict escalation, but resolution. The willingness and ability to resolve conflict is essential to your maturity.
As much as we dislike it, conflict will happen in the Christian life. I dislike conflict. I hope to never see another day of conflict in my life. But I know I will. God's will for us is to deal with it Biblically when it happens, and process it in such a way that the situation is resolved in a mature manner.
Unfortunately, the EASY OUT for many Christians (when faced with conflict) is CHURCH TRANSFER. Once there they can safely ESCALATE the matter (to sympathetic ears), or simply AVOID the face-to-face meeting with the other involved person that the Bible calls for. I recognize that sometimes changing churches is necessary – but not as often as it occurs. Relationship conflict is not supposed to be addressed through escape – it only perpetuates the problem and keeps it alive. God would have us to deal with it... not run from it.
The Biblical writers in both the OT and NT were not afraid of conflict; in fact they demonstrated an acute awareness of the tensions that sometimes exist in the body of Christ.
26Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27and give no opportunity to the devil (Ephesians 4:26-27).
Once wounded, if we do not process the pain in a Biblical manner, it becomes internalized. These internal wounds are often fatal to our spiritual walk. Not addressing conflict creates a victim, and a victim's mentality. This is the most common type of church-transferee: someone who has been offended and chooses to flee rather than face. This escapism demonstrates immaturity and is not without negative consequences.
To use escape as a way of resolving problems is to draw a permanent line in your spirit where your spiritual growth will be stunted. You will travel no further in God, and will gain no higher ground. This line defines the end of your spiritual leash. It is your sticking point, and until you get it resolved with your brother, (or make an attempt at resolving the matter), God will always have a controversy with you (Matt. 5:23-24).
Avoidance of conflict has created a generation of Christians who are addicted to therapeutic ministries too. Healing sells hot. Instead of viewing conflict resolution as a tool for growth, these marsh mellow softies would rather remain emotional cripples and sign up for therapy or change churches where they can find palavering sympathy.
Escapism allows us to call ourselves Christians without testing our resolve. Instead of practicing core Biblical principles such as confrontation, forgiveness, reconciliation, humility, patience, perseverance, and love in the Body of Christ, these runaways simply hop to another church. This creates cheap grace; an easy believism of avoidance and shallow commitment.
Enabled and reinforced by church hopping, these escape artists embrace an effortless, sugar-coated, have-it-your-way kind of faith. This cheap grace fosters a hollow form of Christianity which gives no regard to the Holy Spirit's regenerating power. It tries to cling to salvation while condemning others, and judges others while it asks to not be judged.
PCC is now eleven years old. It has been interesting to see the many changes that have taken place in this ministry. Yet, at the same time, the most important things remain the same.
One of the reasons God has blessed PCC is because we have simply stayed consistent in our efforts and refused to give up. We've never looked for a magic key or some lightening in a bottle to bring about growth and church health. We've always kept the main thing the main thing. Now that we have been at it for eleven years, we have a forward momentum that is almost self-perpetuating.
Did you know that most new church plants do not make it past the 3 year mark?
Sticking with it doesn't mean that we shouldn't take risks, start new initiatives, step out in faith, set goals, develop strategies, or even make changes. But it does mean that we make sure God is leading us and directing those decisions.
PCC has remained consistent with our MISSION. Our mission is based upon the Great Commission that Jesus gave the church. This is a Biblical mandate, and as such can never change. Our church has always been deliberate about reaching those who are far from God and turning them into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
PCC has remained consistent in our MINISTRIES. We don't try to do everything. That burns people out and gets the church running off into too many different directions as once. If you are looking for a church that has a full menu of options - (some 92 different ministries) – there are other churches that might be a better fit. We only do five things at PCC: the Weekend Services…. Children… Teens… Small Groups… and Outreach (and anything else that can support these ministries and provide congregational care). This gives us laser focus and makes us more effective. It also prevents mission drift.
Most churches have way too many activities, programs, and events on the schedule. That can be a huge drain on the family, and additionally, it creates excessive competition within the church for limited resources.
To ensure that the most important and productive ministries thrive, it is necessary for us to periodically prune the programs and ministries that are least effective or most draining upon people's time and limited church resources. In other words, we find ways to cut competing systems from the church docket.
At PCC we have made some tough decisions in the past about certain programs and ministries because they were a drain; decisions that were very unpopular at the time. We have had to say no to a great many ideas that would have broadened our ministry but blunted our impact. For instance, from the beginning we decided not to provide Sunday night worship services, Easter cantatas, Christmas specials, and a host of other good but potentially competitive programs. There is nothing wrong with any of these programs or ministries. But for us, they compete with other areas we deem to be more important.
"I've got three advanced degrees. I went to two different seminaries and a Bible school. How did I miss the 2,000 verses in the Bible where it talks about the poor?"
I felt the effects the time change today. After the 18 mile bike ride Saturday, losing an hour of sleep left me feeling tired at church. In fact, after church I took a long nap. My internal body clock is not adjusted.
Good services today. Attendance was about 30 lower than the previous Sunday. I attribute it to time change. Bunch of sissies!
The message today was solid, very practical and to-the-point. Learning how God changes us and what our part is in the change process was enlightening. But it's always more important to be a DOER of the Word.
Life change is God's will for every one of His children. Not only is it a matter of obedience, but it is also EVIDENCE of authentic salvation.
Salvation is more than being a card carrying member of the Jesus club – it's a matter of growing up in the new birth.
I was honest today when I talked about how hard it is for me to like some Christian people. God doesn't give me a pass on this – I'm fully capable of doing better. This ability is contained in the power of the new birth. No excuses. Just do it.
Did you hear about the pastor who was SHOT AND KILLED IN HIS CHURCH TODAY? Happened in Illinois. You can read it here.
This is happening on a regular basis now in our country. I understand why many churches have armed security during their services. We have had discussions about security weaknesses at PCC, and I think it is time for us to take action.
You would be surprised at the number of Bible-toting psychotics out there who call themselves Christians.
There are some people in this community who hate me… for nothing other than being a pastor who didn't cater to their every beck and call. The stories I could tell you would make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.
Pray for First Baptist Church Maryville as they deal with the lost of their pastor. I can't imagine the sorrow they are feeling. Especially pray for the wife and two daughters who have been left behind… because of one sicko lunatic.
I loved the springlike weather we've had for the last couple of days. And the time change today gave extra daylight hours. Nice.
Troy & Debbie P. are moving away tomorrow. They are relocating to North GA. They have been with us ten years… almost since the beginning… and we will miss there very much. They have been a major asset to PCC.
This is important: In order for us to reach the kinds of people that other churches are not reaching, we have to do things that other churches are not doing. PCC has a unique DNA and we have positioned ourselves accordingly. Make no mistake about it – I love what God is doing in other churches – and a good work is being accomplished in many of them. But God has not called us to be like the other churches. Because of that, we will always be creative, will experiment, and be willing to think outside of the box.
Here's a suggestion: Let's quit listening to the negative news so much that is telling us how bad the economy is, and insult God by believing FOX or CNN more than we believe Him and His promises to provide. No one at PCC is any danger of starving to death!
We're taking our eyes off Jesus and putting them on the economy.
I have never seen (in half a lifetime) one person go under who applied Biblical principles to their finances. Not one. Not one. Not one!
The two biggest problems in America today are consumer debt and obesity. It's not that we don't have enough… we just don't manage it well.
The Geico eyeball commercials are so stupid. They need to bring the caveman back.
Fixing to eat some guacamole dip… the best in SR County. Made it myself.
The connecting road between Pensacola Beach and Navarre was opened yesterday. Renae and I took advantage of it and loaded the bikes today.
We rode 18 miles. I'm smoked!
You can see the paved bike path is behind me... it makes for a very nice and scenic ride.
Your life is the sum total of the choices you have made towards God. Once God makes Himself known to you, what you do next is up to you. Your reaction reflects what you believe about Him.
The rich, young ruler lived a moral life. He was well versed in the Scriptures and the Law of God. But his response to Jesus' invitation revealed that, although he possessed a head knowledge of the teachings of God, he did not know God in a personal, experiential way that could be demonstrated by a response of faith (Matt. 19:16-22).
Whenever God speaks to you, it requires an adjustment on your part. Every time you pray you must be aware that if God answers and reveals His will to you, it will immediately require that you reorient your life. Each time you read the Bible, you must be prepared to obey what God tells you. God reveals truth to us – not to make us intellectual – but to see if we will respond in faith and obedience, making us true servants.
You are faced with the same choice every time God brings truth to you. What you do next is up to you.
Don't forget to set your clock forward one hour Saturday night.
Will I go to this person and witness to them?
Will I lead the public prayer?
Will I lead this ministry or not?
Will I quit my job and enter full-time vocational ministry?
Will I just play it safe from the side lines for the rest of my life?
Actions speak louder than words. When called, or invited, what you do next reveals what you really believe about God. Following God will require faith and action on your part. In fact, faith without action is not faith at all. Obedience is what reveals faith.
When I felt God was calling me into full time ministry, the day came when I had to make a decision – remain at Westinghouse or leave. I stepped out of the boat.
When I accepted that God wanted me to be a church planter, I had to make a decision; I could machine gun my résumé to hundreds of churches hoping one would respond and just give me a job, or I could just risk everything and start from scratch.
God is interested in the world knowing Him. The only way that people will know what God is like is when they see Him at work in YOUR LIFE. This is why God calls us and sets us apart – so that we can be a demonstration of His provision, His kindness, and His faithfulness to come through.
This is why God chooses to work through you. People know you. They know what you can do. But when they see things happen that can only be explained by God's involvement, they will come to know Him.
God is calling you to a God-sized assignment. Whatever it is, it is beyond where you are right now. Your assignment is to be a demonstration of His handiwork in the process of carrying out that assignment.
But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).
Have you ever prayed for something and gotten something else? I have. We all have. But we usually don't recognize it as the operation of God. We think God said no, or is not responding. Some people might lead you to believe that those are seasons in which God is trying to get you to persist. Maybe. Maybe not.
In Mark 2:1-5 is a remarkable story to illustrate this point. Four men brought their crippled friend to Jesus to be healed. Because of the crowd they had to climb the roof, open a hole there, and let the man down on ropes in front of Jesus. Jesus said to the man, Son your sins are forgiven" (v.5).
These four friends were asking Jesus to heal the mans physical infirmity, but Jesus forgave the mans sins. They asked for one thing, and Jesus gave another! Why? Jesus knew the mans greatest need - he needed forgivness more than he needed healing. Jesus wanted to give the man eternal life so he could inherit everything! The man was later healed, but only after the highest priority was first addressed.
We pray asking God for one thing and He sometimes delivers another. His perspective is bigger than ours, and He knows what we really have need of - even when we think we know best. He may want to accomplish another thing in you first before He answers what you are currently asking for.
Our problem is that we pray about something but never relate anything that happens as being connected to our prayers. We get discouraged believing it's not going to work out. Here's what you should do - after you pray about something turn on your spiritual concentration and anticipate the activity of God in response to your prayers. It may or may not be what you were asking for, but put up your spiritual antenna and listen. Look for God-activity. When you pray, God responds.
Expect God to answer your prayers. But stick around for the answer. His timing and response is always right and best.
If I am praying asking God for one thing and something different happens, I find it is best (for myself) to respond to what IS happening. Perhaps God sees something I don't see (of course He does), or perhaps He has another plan in mind, or maybe He wants to do a special work in me.
I could open my eyes to what WAS HAPPENING as a result of my prayers and begin responding to it.
I chose option three. I adjusted my ambitions and expectations to God's will. I adjusted my life to what God was doing around me. We began embracing the people God was sending us. I shudder to think of the opportunity I would have missed if I had been too hard headed or stubborn to follow God's leading.
This principle has guided me my entire Christian life – everything from job searches, where to live, when to move, who to see, how to react, etc. It has served me well.
Maybe you are praying for a situation. The good news is God is concerned about your plight and the need you have. Keep praying about it. Who knows, He might answer it just the way you are asking for. He usually does. But if something different begins happening, adjust yourself to what God is doing. His perspective is bigger than yours and you'll be in a much better place if you do.
Timothy, a young preacher, must have been timid. Paul kept prodding him to not be hesitant because of his youth. He was a good young man and said good things… but he needed to be set on fire.
The gift of God that had been given to him for ministry had been reduced down to coals and it was up to Timothy himself to rekindle it into a blaze. And we see what follows… For God has not given us the spirit of fear (2 Tim.1:7).
Throughout the entire Bible God calls us to a holy boldness and promises to make us as bold. "The wicked flee when no man pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion" (Proverbs 28:1).
The size of the prize often determines the severity of the fight. The enemy knows your weaknesses and will push you to the limit. When that happens, remember, "Blessed is the man who endures… for he shall receive the crown of life" (James 1:12).
Sometimes the safest place to be in "in the battle" for it is there that God's protects you. King David did not get into trouble with Bathsheba until he left the battle field. So hang in there, fight the good fight of faith, and endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
Remember as a child how secure you felt in a fight knowing your big brother or sister (or friend) was behind you. Well, God is backing you up.
So stir up the gift of God that is within you.
Forty thousand visits to this blog. The ironic thing about it? I received an anonymous e-mail a while back from someone who told me to give it up because no one else cares!
I guess 39,999 others don't share his opinion.
I love Christ. It is some of His followers who turn me off! The truth is, I have a hard time loving some believers – even though I know I am supposed to.
I wished I liked all Christians, but I don't. They are so judgmental. They are mean. They will argue and fight – and even disfellowship you - over the silliest things. Then there is the Angry Street Preacher who is yelling at the top of his lungs. What is he so mad about? And some Christians are just plain weird. Let's not forget Christian television either – some of these people make my job almost impossible. Ever see those women with Pepto-Bismol-colored hair? See what I mean? And we're supposed to be on the same team!
1. They seem angry and bitter about a lot of stuff. Why do so many believers have such bad attitudes? I thought we were supposed to have joy and peace.
2. Some have a greater allegiance to their theology more than to Jesus Himself. I mean some people will even go to blows over their belief system. If you cross them they will make it their mission in life to prove themselves right. I know a lot of people who love their doctrine more than they love Christ.
3. They are more concerned with the BMW next door than the lost person who drives it. Some Christians (or should I say church people) seem to hate anyone who has more money than they do. They will gladly fellowship with others who are in the same financial bracket as they're in, and are quite satisfied to let rich people go to hell.
4. They get morbid pleasure in seeing another believer or another church fail. You've seen it. There is this secret gloating when they see another fail. Some are brazen enough to just come right out in the open and say it, "He had it coming." Maybe it's our base nature, I don't know, but there's something within all of us that likes to see the high and mighty fall. That's why gossip magazines are big business. But Christian people should never be like this… and yet many are – towards their brothers in Christ!
5. They use prayer (or God's sovereignty) as an excuse for inaction. They are waiting for God to do His thing, but they won't do their thing.
I love my weekly small group meetings. The guys who attend are imperfect, real, and often transparent. I love it when God fills our church with Christian people who are reliable, steady, and always there through thick and thin. You can count on them. I love the people who send me thank you notes that help brighten my day. I love the people who donate sacrificially to Pace Community Church to help us do quality ministry in a God-honoring way. I love it when God's people pray… and when He answers. I love it when people use their spiritual gifts – not for themselves – but for ministry and to edify the Body of Christ. I love it when people "get it" – they start understanding grace, and they bubble over with it. I love it when imperfect people have a collision with a perfect God…. and God wins!
There is a big difference between believing IN God and BELIEVING God. James pointed out the difference when he wrote, "You believe there is one God… even the demons do that much" (James 2:19). Demons believe IN God but obviously don't serve Him. See the difference?
Many people are casual believers IN God. They will pray a polite prayer at the Thanksgiving meal, and attend church services on Christmas and Easter. But God doesn't affect their lives or their spending habits. He doesn't curb their morality, keep them from cursing on the job, gossiping, or telling a lie to get ahead. They believe IN God but still do pretty much what they want.
Another kind of belief is the convenient believer. This is the person who waves the Christian flag whenever it involves personal benefit. Such a person is quick to talk God-talk if it helps seal a business deal, or score a date, or land a promotion. This person uses their belief IN God to leverage circumstances for personal benefit.
The third kind of belief is the committed believer. This is what Jesus calls us to.... and represents what a true Christ-follower looks like. The road to commitment is paved with personal abandonment and self-denial. Life ceases to be (less) about us, and begins to be more about God. The committed believer doesn't waver because of adverse circumstances. He is not moved by other's opinions. He is a Christ-follower all the time. Obedience and faithfulness are his goals. 90% commitment to Christ is not enough for this person.


text:
Q: CSS 3 Media Queries support for IE I am having troubles finding a good process to go about registering CSS3 media Queries in my website I'm creating. I've tried the css3-mediaqueries.js but that did nothing and now I have heard that Respons.js is the way to go, however I place it in after the css stylesheet(s) and check it out in IE 8 and it crashes my site every single time!
The site I have linked to I have kept the <script src="js/libs/respond.src.js"></script>where I have placed it yet have deleted the .js file from the server or it'll just keep crashing.
Has anyone had this experience with Respond.js and any experience with registering CSS3 media queries for their own site? I've been trying to figure this out for quite a while now and it's quite frustrating.
I appreciate any advice!

A: My IE crashes when I use this combination in style.css:
@media screen and (max-width: 320px) {
#element {}
@media screen and (orientation:landscape) {
    .element {}
}
}

after
@media screen and (max-width: 320px) {
#element {}
}
@media screen and (orientation:landscape) and (max-width: 320px) {
    .element {}
}

WORKS WELL, NO CRASH IE! :)

A: It's a known issue with background images set to the body in IE8. See this issue on GitHub: https://github.com/scottjehl/Respond/issues/83
Try using the most recent version of Respond that Scott pushed last night: https://github.com/scottjehl/Respond/blob/master/respond.min.js, the problem should be fixed.
If that doesn't work, you could always try an approach without a polyfill by feeding IE the other screen styles in a conditional comment. This is easiest if you're using SASS or LESS, as you can import the styles into a secondary style sheet without media queries. For more info on that, check out this post: http://nicolasgallagher.com/mobile-first-css-sass-and-ie/. If you're not using a pre-processor it might not be worth the time though.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Backpacks are an absolute must for every explorer in the world. Regardless of whether you travel a lot or a little, you need a backpack that can accommodate all your movement needs. With so many organizations offering a wide assortment of backpacks, you need to rethink this before you buy.
Things turn out to be easy if you have someone on your side who directs you to make the right decisions, and we're just like that. Here are the best concealed carry backpacks.
This outdoor rover sling pack from Red Rock is particularly good in terms of quality and adequacy. Regardless of its value, which is less expensive compared to its competitors, it can really shake your reality once you've seen it in real life. The plan is basic yet verified to ensure that your weapon is completely disguised and yet easy to reach.
This concealled 600 denier polyester backpack comes in a variety of shades and samples. It has a main compartment with internal Velcro and three more. Its basic compartment contains an additional capacity for devices and various ruffles. With its neck strap, it is one of the simplest backpacks that can be used on both sides.
The brand name alone makes it difficult to imagine what the 3V Gear Outlaw Sling Pack looks like over the shoulder day bag. If quality and roughness are linked together, it is highly unlikely that you will drop this sack at any time as soon as you attempt it. Over the years, 3V has made a name for selling reliable disguised transport backpacks that are available as this backpack.
Its solid development and first-class materials make it one of the best hidden transport backpacks. Due to the amazing highlights, you will appreciate that you can use this device for a long time as it can be used regularly.
The Outlaw Gear Slinger is designed to give you access to your backpack without removing it from your body. Basically, squeeze the bag under your arm so that the backpack is in front of you. Most pockets and zippers are arranged on a flat plane so you can reach them in that position. When you're done with the sling pack, pull it away.
Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is no ambiguity among the best-known disguised transport backpacks. Because it is looking for outdoor trips, for regular use and work. This backpack has numerous compartments that can hold up to 14.1 inches PC. The bags and bags are best accessed from the bottom, so you can get everything you need without big problems.
With PALS webbing and Interior Coordinator you have no problem arranging your belongings in the pack. Its strong lanyard can be effectively pulled in front of the body so you have complete access to the flat compartments.
Designed for outdoor or office travel, the Sitka Gearslinger offers plenty of room for your workstation (up to 14.1 inches) and gives you access to various pockets and pockets, 14 PALS webbing channels, inward association, CCW and 100 oz / 3 from the top l hydration stock.
Combine it with common sense and strong structure, and your regular transport bag becomes your daily strategic friend.
At a glance, a lot of people would think that this Backpack is just one of the normal backpacks. The well-thought-out configuration of this backpack looks like an ordinary backpack that, without much stretching, is able to dispense with the consideration of individuals. This hidden transport backpack is quite useful and useful with all its implicit subjects.
Its extraordinary weapon compartment in the front compartment has zips on both sides. The padded sleeve in the main compartment is also ideal for storing your workstation or tablet devices.
Nothing is better if you spend your well-earned money on a decent backpack that can be valuable for a long time. However, when you think about your type of work and regular exercise, it can sometimes be an ideal backpack. Therefore, do not miss this opportunity to examine Condor Ambidextrous Sling Bag.
This flexible backpack with hidden pocket is one of the best bags exceptionally designed to keep your normal things and the weapon like a master. Condor Ambidextrous Sling Bag is a strong, multi-functional sack that can inspire strategic pack enthusiasts.
You need a backpack where you can store all important things properly. Comfort and good connection are some of the key highlights that you should see in a backpack. Regardless of whether you are buying one of the best backpacks referred to above, you can be sure of something. It is like that you get an incentive for cash that fully reimburses its value. Buy one of the backpacks and save yourself unnecessary stress.


SEATTLE, WA – March 22, 2019 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The Legends and Heroes Tour Traveling Moto Museum is pleased to announce that they will again take part in the pit party activation in the Fan Fest activation at the Monster Energy Supercross on Saturday in Indianapolis, IN. This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the tour and their mission of celebrating the Legends and Heroes of the sport. In addition to their display of vintage machines and memorabilia, the tour will honor '70s motocross privateer Mark Gregson during the evenings opening ceremonies.


Technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the Indian construction industry. One new-gen technology that is gaining interest in the construction industry is the usage of drones. It is poised to serve as an effective medium towards building smart cities in a cost-effective, faster and safer manner with optimum utilisation of skills and efforts. It is expected that in the next 10 years, the use of drones in construction will register a manifold growth and will play a leading role in futuristic buildings.


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Q: How to assign a record type to a profile I have been following this documentation to see how I can assign a Task record type I created for a profile I have. However, the instructions say Select a profile. The record types available for that profile are listed in the Record Type Settings section. but I cannot find the Record Type Settings section. The closest thing there is is:
Object Settings
Permissions to access objects and fields, and settings that specify which record types, page layouts, and tabs are visible
But even in there I cannot find the record type I need.

A: You have to pick an object to assign record types for. So, Setup > Profiles > Profile Name > Object Settings > Object Name > Edit. Note that this is only true if you have the Enhanced Profile Editor. The notes you're looking at are written for the "classic" editor, which presented all options on a single page.

Classic view:

...


Dentures can be a convenient option for replacing missing teeth. Whether you only need to replace a few teeth or all of your teeth, it's important to get the right fit.
If you choose dentures at Campsie Street Dental, our dentists can take impressions of your mouth to make sure your custom dentures will be a perfect fit. We'll check their condition every time you visit for your regular check-up and give you advice about how to care for your dentures to help them last as long as possible.
Find out more about dentures and other options to replace missing teeth by making an appointment at our Sydney dental clinic. Call our friendly team on (02) 9718 7907.
Also known as false teeth, dentures are a prosthetic replacement for missing teeth. As well as restoring the appearance of your smile, they also provide the same function as natural teeth when eating, speaking and supporting your facial structure.
If you choose dentures at Campsie Street Dental, our dentists will take a mold of your mouth and use it to create the base of the dentures, made from a plastic resin. We can then add prosthetic teeth to this base, designed to look as close to natural teeth as possible.
When placed inside the mouth, light suction holds the dentures in place. We'll check that your new dentures are the right fit and make any adjustments needed to your new smile.
Depending on how many teeth have been lost, we can offer either full or partial dentures.
Full dentures contain a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. They can restore either the upper arch or the lower arch, or both if you need to replace all the teeth in your mouth. If you still have any teeth remaining, these will need to be extracted before full dentures can be fitted.
Partial dentures are smaller appliances that can replace several teeth in a row. The molded support is designed to fit snugly between your existing teeth.
Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily cleaning to remove bacteria or leftover food from their surfaces. If you take your dentures out at night (which is recommended) or other times, they should be stored in water or a denture cleaning solution. You should also continue to clean your gums to prevent oral health problems such as gum disease.
We recommend replacing your dentures every 7-10 years, as over time they may start to lose their suction, which could cause them to loosen and not provide enough support to your face.
Dentures aren't the only option for replacing missing teeth. During your consultation, we'll tell you about all the treatments we offer so you can decide which is right for your circumstances.
A more permanent alternative to removable dentures is dental implants.
If you only need to replace one or more individual teeth, we may suggest a dental bridge.
Book a consultation with our dentists to discuss dentures and other tooth replacement options today. Call us on (02) 9718 7907 or fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.


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Laize-Clinchamps est, depuis le , une commune française située dans le département du Calvados en région Normandie.

De statut administratif commune nouvelle, elle est peuplée de . Elle regroupe les communes de Clinchamps-sur-Orne et de Laize-la-Ville et son chef-lieu se situe à Laize-la-Ville.

Géographie

Climat
Le climat qui caractérise la commune est qualifié, en 2010, de « climat océanique altéré », selon la typologie des climats de la France qui compte alors huit grands types de climats en métropole. En 2020, la commune ressort du même type de climat dans la classification établie par Météo-France, qui ne compte désormais, en première approche, que cinq grands types de climats en métropole. Il s'agit d'une zone de transition entre le climat océanique, le climat de montagne et le climat semi-continental. Les écarts de température entre hiver et été augmentent avec l'éloignement de la mer. La pluviométrie est plus faible qu'en bord de mer, sauf aux abords des reliefs.

Les paramètres climatiques qui ont permis d'établir la typologie de 2010 comportent six variables pour les températures et huit pour les précipitations, dont les valeurs correspondent à la normale 1971-2000. Les sept principales variables caractérisant la commune sont présentées dans l'encadré ci-après.

Avec le changement climatique, ces variables ont évolué. Une étude réalisée en 2014 par la Direction générale de l'Énergie et du Climat complétée par des études régionales prévoit en effet que la  température moyenne devrait croître et la pluviométrie moyenne baisser, avec toutefois de fortes variations régionales. Ces changements peuvent être constatés sur la station météorologique de Météo-France la plus proche, « Fresney Le Vieu », sur la commune de Fresney-le-Vieux, mise en service en 1988 et qui se trouve à  à vol d'oiseau, où la température moyenne annuelle est de  et la hauteur de précipitations de  pour la période 1981-2010.
Sur la station météorologique historique la plus proche, « Caen-Carpiquet », sur la commune de Carpiquet,  mise en service en 1945 et à , la température moyenne annuelle évolue de  pour la période 1971-2000 à  pour 1981-2010, puis à  pour 1991-2020.

Urbanisme

Typologie
Laize-Clinchamps est une commune rurale. Elle fait en effet partie des communes peu ou très peu denses, au sens de la grille communale de densité de l'Insee.

Par ailleurs la commune fait partie de l'aire d'attraction de Caen, dont elle est une commune de la couronne. Cette aire, qui regroupe , est catégorisée dans les aires de  à moins de .

Toponymie

Histoire
La commune nouvelle regroupe les communes de Clinchamps-sur-Orne et de Laize-la-Ville, qui deviennent des communes déléguées, le . Son chef-lieu se situe à Laize-la-Ville.

Politique et administration

Liste des maires

Communes déléguées

Population et société

Démographie

Économie

Culture locale et patrimoine

Lieux et monuments
 Église Notre-Dame de Clinchamps-sur-Orne.
 Église de l'Assomption Notre-Dame de Laize.

Personnalités liées à la commune

Voir aussi
 Liste des communes du Calvados.
 Liste des communes nouvelles créées en 2017.

Notes et références

Notes

Références

Commune dans le Calvados
Commune nouvelle dans le Calvados
Aire d'attraction de Caen

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Maryland, DC attorneys general sue Trump over business ties
WASHINGTON (AP) — The attorneys general of Maryland and the District of Columbia filed a federal lawsuit Monday against President Donald Trump, alleging he violated the Constitution by retaining ties to his sprawling global business empire and by accepting foreign payments while in office.
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh joined District counterpart Karl Racine at a news conference in announcing the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in neighboring Maryland. Much of the case is focused on allegations that Trump's real estate and business holdings violate a little-known emoluments clause of the Constitution. The provision bars the president and other government employees from accepting foreign gifts and payments without congressional approval.
"The president's conflicts of interest threaten our democracy," Frosh said. "We cannot treat the president's ongoing violations of the Constitution and his disregard of the rights of the American people as the new acceptable status quo."
Trump's unique status as both president and the financial beneficiary of his global business empire raised questions about the emoluments clause of the Constitution even before he took office. Trump and his attorneys argue the clause does not cover fair-value transactions, such as hotel room payments and real estate sales.
The attorneys general aren't the first to sue Trump over emoluments. Just days after Trump's inauguration in January, the government watchdog Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington filed a federal lawsuit in the Southern District of New York. Since then, a restaurant group and two individuals in the hotel industry have joined as plaintiffs.
The Justice Department said Friday that those plaintiffs did not suffer in any way and had no standing to sue, and that it is unconstitutional to sue the president in his official capacity.
White House press secretary Sean Spicer noted that response at a White House press briefing Monday.
"This lawsuit today is just another iteration of the case that was filed by that group CREW, filed actually be the same lawyers," Spicer said. "So it's not hard to conclude that partisan politics may be one of the motivations behind the suit."
The Trump Hotel in the nation's capital affects business in the Washington area and is part of the reason the lawsuit was filed, the two Democratic officials explained. They also said their action was non-partisan, and other state attorneys general, including Republicans, were welcome to join the suit. It seeks an injunction to stop what the two alleged are the president's constitutional violations.
Racine said he hopes the lawsuit will prompt Republicans in Congress and Trump to take steps that the suit is asking the court to take.
"Again, the reason why we're here is because the president of the United States, in a wholly unprecedented fashion, has decided to maintain a sprawling international business empire that accepts money without account from foreign governments," Racine said.
Frosh said Trump regularly welcomes foreign diplomats to his hotel and appears frequently at Trump establishments, "using his role as president to raise their public profile."
"We have economic interests that are impacted, but the most salient factor is that when the president is subject to foreign influence, we have to be concerned about whether the actions he's taking — both at home and abroad — are the result of payments that he is receiving at the Trump Hotel, payments that he is receiving at Mar-a-Lago, payments that he is receiving at Trump Tower, payments that he is receiving in all of his other far-flung enterprises, and he brags about it," Frosh told The Associated Press in an earlier interview.
The lawsuit also focuses on the fact that Trump chose to retain ownership of his company when he became president. Trump said he was shifting assets into a trust managed by his sons to eliminate potential conflicts of interests.
If a federal judge allows the case to proceed, Racine and Frosh say they will demand copies of Trump's personal tax returns in court to gauge the extent of his foreign business dealings.
"Mr. Trump is unique in American history in violating the emoluments clause," Frosh said. "There is no other president whose domestic and foreign investments, the entanglements, have been so bound up with our policy and our interests, and he is the only president who has refused to disclose the extent of his holdings and interests, so yes it will be a subject of our lawsuit. We will be seeking that information."
Associated Press writers Jill Colvin and Julie Bykowicz contributed to this report in Washington.
1 dead in overnight crash on I-20


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– Twitter- Inc. Common Stock
SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Investigates Claims On Behalf of Investors Twitter, Inc. – TWTR
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - September 23, 2022) - Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Twitter, Inc. ("Twitter" or the "Company") (NYSE: TWTR). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Twitter and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
On August 23, 2022, the Washington Post published an article reporting that Twitter's former head of security Peiter Zatko had filed a complaint with U.S. regulators, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Federal Trade Comission, regarding "egregious deficiencies" in the Company's defenses against hackers. In his complaint, Zatko said that he had warned colleagues that some of Twitter's servers were running out-of-date software and that executives had withheld information about breaches and lack of protections for user data. The complaint further alleged that Twitter prioritized growth over reducing the number of spam accounts, offering executives cash bonuses of as much as $10 million tied to increasing the number of daily users. On this news, Twitter's stock price fell sharply during intraday trading on August 23, 2022.
DoorDash, Roku, HP, and more: Tech layoffs keep on coming
#Donald Trump
#Merger
#Positive Automated Post
DWAC shares spike after merger with Trump's Truth Social parent gets delayed
#New Order
#Cannabis
#Acquisition Completion


With a personalised gift for grandma, you can remind her every day how much she means to you. Check out all our grandmother gift ideas to find the best match for yours. To make her feel really special, pair your grandma gifts with gourmet treats or a cheery bouquet.


Workplaces are our second homes. We spend more than half a quarter of our lives there. No wonder then that we always want our office cubicles to look organized and welcoming.
Our spaces reflect our personality. Choosing the best office decor is a must if we want our workstation to exude our own auras and become spaces where our energies thrive. As employees, the major role in decorating an office is played by the office cabin accessories we use. Those little pieces of art or traditional handlooms add subtle beauty to our corner, making it homely as well as aesthetic.
But let's face it, nobody has the time to physically go shopping for office accessories. In any case, getting all our favourite items and the needful ones under one platform is next to impossible. Moreover, getting all these at the best budget rates are also something that should be taken care of!
The trick is, no surprises there, to go online for the most unique and authentic Indian office decor accessories at the most appropriate rates. From antique wall clock to artistic pen holders, khadi paper files to carved wooden paperweight – the list is never-ending.
Let's take a look at some such items that will give your desk an artistic look with a dash of pure desi glamour.
A multi-purpose utility item, it has a pot-shaped pen stand, a visiting card holder, and a wok-shaped pin holder. All three are placed on a rectangular wooden platform. Handcrafted to perfection by skilled Jaipuri artisans, it is quite a useful desk accessory and an interesting display piece.
Already feeling dull in the first quarter of your working hour? Now each time you glance at this amazing table clock, you'll get some excitement back on your face. Shiva Plate Watch is a spherical white marble clock resting on a small plate. Specially handcrafted in Jaipur using superior-quality marble, this beautiful piece has traditional enamel work and a round dial with a golden border embossed with a rich and colourful stone-studded design. A perfect piece to give your office table a unique ethnic style. Resting on the centre side of your office table, it's sure to grab the attention of all the visitors in your cabin.
Now show your guests something they've never seen before. Shiva Arts Tea Coaster consists of a set of six circular tea coasters, sure to be one of the most unique pieces of awesomeness. The six coasters fit beautifully into the holder they come with, giving it the perfection it needs. These coasters will provide a protective layer on surfaces where beverages might be placed on your office table.
The elegant looking exquisite Shiva Arts Tea Coasters, handcrafted out of marble at Jaipur, are beautifully decorated with the painting of a kingfisher sitting on a tree branch. The coaster holder is adorned with multicoloured meenakari and kundan work that adds to the stunning natural look of it.
Get all your papers and important documents well organised in this amazing, versatile, and handmade file folder with authentic kantha embroidery, an ethnic artwork from the rich heritage of ancient India. This multi-pocketed folder having bright threadwork, beautiful motifs, and fine needlework over recycled tapric will be ideal to place your documents in. Furthermore, it comes with five pockets and a holding strap, attached on top of the flap to make it easy to carry outdoors too.
Let's give your table the touch of gold it needs! Lavanya Pen Stand Bull with Two Heads is an astounding looking pen stand sculpted in the shape of two bulls, one on either side, being ridden by a man. At the centre is a hollow space where you can keep your pens extremely well organised. Intricately designed, this glossy, gold-coloured pen stand is an excellent example of Dhokra art, which uses the 4,000-year-old lost-wax casting technique to create stunning artefacts. Flaunt it on your table to give your office the royal look.
Now each time you pick out a tissue, get some beautiful hues to lighten your mood! Adidev Aesthetic Wooden Tissue Paper Holder is a stunning piece of art, made of high-quality wood and beautifully embossed with hand painting in vibrant colours that'll give your office the colourful touch it needs. Intensify the vibrancy of your office cubicle with this perfect authentic Rajasthani handicraft tissue box.
7. FASHION GRASSROOT PEN AND MOBILE HOLDER.
I am sure you like all your pens placed in a charming case! Who doesn't? Well, here's something that'll give you ease along with artistic satisfaction. Fashion Grassroot Pen and Mobile Holder is handcrafted out of wood. It is a square box which is made in a way to hold pens and suchlike items. On its side are parallel wooden bars that are designed to keep a cell phone. The entire structure rests on a slab of wood and is beautifully embellished with flowers and patterns using papier mâché. Painted in attractive vibrant hues using acrylic colours, they add beauty to the artefact and will give your office the touch of vibrancy it needs.
These are some artistic, Indian handcrafted alluring pieces for office decor out of the varied choices available at SaleBhai. The online marketplace offers some really authentic and attractive accessories for your office that are enough to give your workspace the look it deserves, and at the best rates! You can have a dekko at more of such amazing pieces of art here and get them delivered directly to your desired location. It's time to start organising your workplace, giving it the unique touch of your personality.
About Author: Saba Irfan Ladha is an Indian food, fashion, travel & lifestyle blogger. She is also an active Instagrammer and a connoisseur on Zomato. Her love for exploration is reflected in her creative blog, Relishing Rascal Scribbles.


The world is becoming more socially and environmentally conscious. The people are willing to make some changes in the way they live, travel and invest, to reduce the damage they cause to the environment or society. This shift was observed profoundly in 2007 when the European Investment Bank issued its first green bond, a EUR 600 million equity index-linked security, whose proceeds were used to fund renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. Since then, over $155 billion worth of public and corporate green bonds have been issued.
The success of these bonds has made it very clear that investors are increasingly conscious of the social and environmental consequences of the decisions that governments and companies make. The investors are aware of the activities and are quick to punish companies that indulge in unethical practices such as for child labour, human rights violation, harm to the environment, poor governance, and a lack of gender equality.
According to Harvard Business Review, this has caused the investments in socially conscious projects to quadruple since 2010. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria are getting integrated into investment decisions. In 2018, $11.6 trillion of all professionally managed assets were under ESG investment strategies, compared to $3 trillion overall in 2010.
This change has caused many companies to integrate ESG criteria in their business model. Sustainability is not only talked about but is implemented in order to have a competitive advantage. Climate change and carbon footprints are considered thoroughly in every plan of action. Because it is not only the profits that these investors are looking for. The investors also want to know that the money they invested is not causing harm to the society or the environment and is in fact used for its welfare. They want to be more responsible towards the society and contribute towards nurturing the planet instead of destroying it.