Potiphar's Wife: a story of temptation and how to resist it

Potiphar’s Wife was not a nice woman. She was a prosperous and influential woman who was unfaithful and vindictive. Her name is never mentioned. She is just the spoiled, bored wife of Potiphar, a prosperous Egyptian official, a captain of Pharaoh’s executioners. She was ready to lie to protect herself and ruin an innocent man, all because she didn’t get what she wanted. Her advances toward Joseph, a slave, were rebuffed and her pride was wounded. She is featured briefly in the story of Joseph in Genesis 39:6-20. This story is an example in temptation and Joseph, an example of how to resist it. As well as Jesus, another example of how to resist temptations with the use of Scripture.

She determined to use her charms to seduce Joseph, the handsome, young Hebrew slave, in her husband’s household. At 17, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and Potiphar bought Joseph and gradually entrusted him with more and more responsibility. When his wife saw Joseph, she immediately wanted him and invited him into her bed. Joseph was quick to rebuff her advances and did his best to avoid being in her presence. Unfortunately, she would not take no for an answer. When Joseph refused one last time and ran away, he leaves his cloak behind. She then takes her “evidence” and accuses him of attempted rape. It is possible she accuses him out of fear that Joseph would tell Potiphar of her behavior. Or most likely, she accuses him into punish him. How dare he say no! Joseph was thrown into prison and we know the rest of his story. However, Potiphar’s wife is never mentioned again. She was a hollow woman who was fueled with the corrosive power of lust and hate.

When Joseph tells Potiphar’s wife no, he says “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). And when she later tells her husband and Potiphar is outraged that his trusted servant would do such a thing. He sends Joseph to prison when he could have easily sent him to his death. Why didn’t he? Did Potiphar know about his wife’s advantages and he knew Joseph was innocent? Did he throw him in prison instead of ordering his execution to save him? Was he forced to believe his wife over a slave? Whatever the reason for Potiphar’s decision to send Joseph to prison, God took away her “victory” and gave Joseph the blessing of an even higher status. After two years in prison, he comes before Pharaoh and can interpret his dreams when no one was able to (Genesis 41:14-32) and then given great responsibility with only the Pharaoh greater than him (Genesis 41:39-40). Whatever happens to Potiphar and his wife? Did she finally get caught in a web of lies? In tangled sheets? Did she eventually lose her wealth, status, and luxurious life? We may never know.

The resistance of temptation is at the center of this story. While Joseph did not have Scripture to tell him that it was a sin against God. For us, our example is Jesus as he uses Scripture to resist sin. Satan uses Scripture against Jesus in his weakness. In Matthew 4:1-12 and Luke 4:1-13, Jesus spends forty days and forty nights fasting in the desert. He was hungry, tired, and weak, ripe for Satan’s temptation. In his weakness, Jesus towards Scripture to battle against temptations. We can use Scripture for the same purpose. Satan tells him, “you’re hungry, make bread.” Jesus replies, “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Deuteronomy 8:3). Satan then tells him, “If you are the son of God, throw yourself down, for God will command his angels concerning you (Psalm 91:11). Jesus answers him with “Do not put the Lord your God to the test” (Deuteronomy 6:16). Satan tries a third and final time and says, worship me and I will give you all the kingdoms of the world. Jesus rebukes him with “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only” (Deuteronomy 6:13).

In conclusion, Potiphar’s wife wasn’t used to be told no and a young slave dared to do so. She takes her revenge by accusing him of a horrible crime. She taught she won; but God had other ideas. He took the virtuous Joseph and elevated him even higher than being a slave in an official’s household. Joseph becomes the highest man in the land, only answering to Pharaoh himself. What happens to Potiphar’s wife? The Bible is silent on the rest of her life, but we know that her desire to punish Joseph for his rebuff was used by God for his glory and purpose. While the story is an example of resisting temptation, Jesus gives us the ultimate example of resistance temptations to protect us and glorify God.

A brief look into Ableism, Lookism, and Tokenism

 Today’s news is filled with examples and stories of racism, sexism and even ageism to the point that everyone knows or familiar with racism, sexism, and ageism. There are many other  isms that function in the world around us. Have you heard about ableism? Lookism? Tokenism? I came across these terms in recent months and I was curious about what these terms mean and real-world examples. We are visual people and sometimes we make assumptions based on what we see. Assumption about someone’s physical health, personality, and including them in groups based on what we immediately see. These assumptions are usually made subconsciously and sometimes they are overt. Sometimes these assumptions are right and sometimes they are very, very wrong. Participation in these isms is sometimes more than just assumptions based on visual cues, but it is also in the language we use and our behavior towards people.

Ableism is “the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior” (Olsen, 2019). At its core, ableism is the assumption that people with disabilities require “fixing” or need help and defines people by their disabilities. What does ableism look like? There are many examples of ableism, I will highlight and discuss a few. First and an important one, ableism is a lack of compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a law enacted in 1990 which made it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities. Compliance includes the availability of closed captions at movie theaters and braille in public places. Second, using a disability as a punchline, mocking someone with a disability or using language that is used to insult another who does not have the disability. Some of the examples I have are phrases like “That’s so lame,” “She’s so crazy,” and even “The blind leading the blind.” Third, according to Ms. Olsen, ableism is using the handicapped bathroom stall when one is fully able. However, I have an issue with this one. In most public restrooms, especially in department stores, the handicapped bathroom is where they put the changing table. So, if I need to change my child’s diaper, I need to be in that stall. Also, if I need to use the restroom and it’s the only stall available, I will use it. Since many disabilities are invisible, do not assume someone who uses that stall doesn’t need it.

Lookism is discriminatory treatment of people who are considered physically unattractive, the workplace as well as in dating and social settings, where assumptions are made about a person’s ability to do a job or the type of person they are solely based on their outward appearance. Attractiveness is considered good and positive and unattractiveness is bad and negative. In the film, A League of Their Own (1992), the character, Marla, wasn’t chosen by the scout because she wasn’t pretty enough. She was only ultimately chosen because characters, Dottie and Kit, stand up for her and demand she be given the chance to play. A real-world example is the famous audition by Susan Boyle during the third season of Britain’s Got Talent. By his body language and tone of voice, Simon Cowell was already judging Ms. Boyle before she even began to sing. Of course, he was proven wrong as she beautifully sang “I Dreamed a Dream” from the musical Les Misérables. However, when it comes to dating and sexual attractiveness, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I have been rejected by men based on my looks. I was always a good person to have as a friend but not as a romantic partner until my husband. My husband had been rejected by women based on his physical looks as well giving him the idea that no woman would find him attractive. Society may try to define what is attractive, beautiful, and sexy but in the eyes of the right person, that definition can be quite different.

Recently I read an article about how a woman received a powerful position due to tokenism because of who her father is. Tokenism is the practice of making a symbolic effort to be inclusive by recruiting people from underrepresented groups to create an impression of social inclusiveness and diversity. So, by this definition, this woman got this job is more an example of nepotism which is the practice among those with power or influence of favoring relatives or friends. Nepotism is nothing new in business and politics even as John F. Kennedy was accused of nepotism in 1961 when he appointed his brother, Robert Kennedy, as attorney general. Tokenism is most often seen in tv and movies. “Tokenism is about inserting diverse characters because you feel you have to” (Ferrera, 2016). Tokenism has been in the news and on social media today as actors are casted in roles that people assume because of their ethnicities. The example of this outrage is when Disney announced they had cast actress Halle Bailey as Ariel in their upcoming live-action remake of The Little Mermaid. Many people online commented that they (Disney) hired Ms. Bailey is simply because they needed a black girl. When I heard the news and the resulting outrage, I immediately thought of Disney’s adaption of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (1997) with a multicultural cast. It was a good, fun film which received more praise then it received criticism. Disney wasn’t accused of tokenism then. So, what changed?

In conclusion, at their core, ableism, lookism, and tokenism is about trying to classify entire groups of people as “less than” or unworthy of mainstream societal standards. People with disabilities can go about their daily lives without an able person asserted themselves under the guise of assistance. If a people with a disability needs assistance, they will ask. Lookism is pushing aside people one judges to be unattractive by their own standards. Some men don’t like women with curves, but there are men who do. There are some women who resist a man with facial and or body hair, and there are some women who don’t. Tokenism is choosing someone based on their group classification rather than their ability to do a job. Ableism, lookism, and tokenism are based on assumptions. Assumptions based on visual cues, about motives, about causality. And you know what happens when we assume?

 

References

 

Ferrera, America (May 18, 2016). America Ferrera On Diversity In Film & TV: Guest Column. Deadline.com. www.deadline.com/2016/05/america-ferrera-diversity-superstore-1201752658/.  Retrieved September 19, 2020.

 

Olsen. Emma (December 12, 2019). Ableism 101. www.accessliving.org/newsroom/blog/ableism-101/. Access Living.com. Retrieved September 17, 2020.

 

For more information

Americans with Disabilities Act. www.ada.gov.

The Little Breadwinner: life during the Salvadoran Civil War

 The Little Breadwinner is the newest book by activist Lucia Mann. It is a story of those who suffered during the Salvadoran Civil War which ravaged the Central American country from 1980 to 1992 and took the lives of approximately 75,000 Salvadorans. It is the story of Estrella Godwin Lozano, a little person, who suffers at the hands of her countrymen as well as the soldiers. As she struggles to survive, she meets various characters who fight for peace, justice, and a normal life including the Sandinistas. At its core, The Little Breadwinner is about finding hope and fight for survival amid uncertain times. Will Estrella survive the war? Will she be able to live a peaceful life?

I have read Ms. Mann’s books for years and they are powerful, emotional, and eye-opening to atrocities which occur around the world. The Little Breadwinner is not on par with her previous books. I appreciate her desire to bring the horrors of the Salvadoran Civil War to a wider audience; however, I did not feel the same emotional impact as I had with her previous books. There is just too much going on, too much back and forth in time, and a lot of exposition and commentary that the narrator interjects into the flow of the story that it feels choppy. Overall, The Little Breadwinner is a book that has introduced me to the Salvadoran Civil War, unfortunately, it does not have the emotional impact that I expect from a Lucia Mann book.

 

The Little Breadwinner is available in paperback and eBook.

American Gospel: Christ Alone a review

 American Gospel: Christ Alone is a 2018 documentary which became available on Netflix in May 2020. Written and directed by Brandon Kimber, American Gospel offers a critical critique of the Word of Faith Movement also known as the prosperity gospel and its influence on Christianity. Through expert interviews, biblical references and personal testimony, the documentary exposes the dangers of the prosperity gospel as well as the call to refocus on the true gospel. Through the Word of Faith history into the prosperity gospel of today, American Gospel argues that salvation with through Christ alone and a call to return to the true gospel, the gospel of Jesus. The Bible gives example after example that Jesus is the hero, the source of our salvation. Throughout the Old Testament, God is saying we need a better lawgiver, we need a better judge, we need a better king and we need a better prophet. The New Testament is Jesus as the fulfillment of those needs. The prosperity gospel teaches man as the hero and God is simply a genie in a lamp to make requests. What is the core of the documentary? What are the praises and well as the criticisms?

American Gospel opens with the core of what Christianity and the gospel is about and that is Jesus. The Bible teaches that faith in Jesus brings salvation and from other the fruit of good work follows. The prosperity gospel appeals to two basic human desires: 1) not to be sick or unhealthy and 2) to be wealthy, not to have to worry about money. A common theme among all the prosperity gospel proponents is that Christians are called to be healthy and wealthy and if you are not, then your faith isn’t big enough or strong enough. It is idolatry as it elevates the gift above the Gift Giver. At the heart of the prosperity gospel is “the more money you give to the Lord’s work, the more likely God will answer your prayers.” The prosperity gospel is a softer, gentler salvation by works. It is still the law, “do this and be blessed.” American Gospel focuses on exposing the falseness of these various teachers including Benny Hinn’s and his “healings” and well as Todd White of Gateway Church. The prosperity gospel teaches that you cannot speak against or criticize the anointed (aka the pastors) and if we do, God will curse us. However, Scripture after Scripture that tells us that we are to hold our teachers accountable and call out the false teachers. In Acts 17:11 tells us that the Bereans heard Paul’s message and checked it against the Scriptures to make sure what he said was true.

The documentary has been praised by many. American Gospel reveals that “the money changers are still in the temple, still making God’s name a mockery” (Strachan, 2019) as Costi Hinn, nephew of Benny Hinn and former Prosperity Gospel follower, “provides a key perspective that is brutally honest while being compassionate” (Vandenboom, 2020). I had known little about the Prosperity Gospel before this documentary. I had tried researching it before and the information out there was so convoluted that I eventually stopped. I knew it wasn’t biblically based as many of the teachers in the Prosperity Gospel rarely teach from Scripture with specific verses. The Prosperity Gospel’s main teaching is the “Name it and Claim it” doctrine, essentially the Power of Positive Thinking that God calls all Christians to be healthy and wealthy while ignoring the truly sick. Justin Peters of Justin Peters Ministries has made it his mission to expose the fallacy of the faith healers like Benny Hinn. I also liked that American Gospel shows why the Prosperity Gospel has been able to thrive in the United States as “America has always been a pragmatic, can-do kind of country” and “the material focus of the “gospel” suits the American culture” (Strachan, 2019).

American Gospel is not without its critics as Todd White, who is featured prominently in the film as a false teacher and faith healer, has stated that the film has been “demonically inspired” (Bjornson, 2020). Another criticism is that the film “enables a patriarchal power structure” (Pidcock, 2020) as men were interview for an instructional purpose while women were interviewed for their emotional stories. Unfortunately, many churches have a prohibition against women in leadership roles, especially as senior pastors. However, it doesn’t mean that women cannot have an active role the church, but that’s a different post. Another criticism is the film’s view on sin and justice (Pidcock, 2020). In the film, Ray Comfort, a minister, is seen doing his common Ten Commandments confrontation with a stranger, and with a microphone and camera in this individual’s face, Comfort questions and questions about lawbreaking until this person relents and admits he is a sinner. I understand Comfort’s motivation to share the gospel in the world; however, this is the part of the film I did not like. It is a common evangelistic method: confront, pray the sinner’s prayer, and then move on. I think the film would still have an impact without featuring Ray Comfort and this tactic.

In conclusion, American Gospel opened my eyes to the prosperity gospel which I have heard about in the last decade but didn’t truly delve into it very deeply. I knew it felt wrong, against my understanding of the Bible. The basics of prosperity gospel is great faith leads to health and wealth. The truth is that is not a great faith we need but a small faith (a mustard seed as Jesus says in Luke 17:6) and a great God. While the idea that we can be healthy and wealthy simply undermines the many examples in the gospel in which Jesus tells people to give up everything and follow him. The story of Jesus and the rich young man in Mark 10:17-31 comes to mind. The Church needs to refocus on the focus of Christianity in Jesus. Christianity is simply Jesus and nothing else. American Gospel is not perfect; however, it does an amazing job expose the truth behind the prosperity gospel. A teaching which doesn’t allow you to question and challenge your pastors is not a teaching we need in the church today. I recommend watching American Gospel and take the information they present to begin an investigation of your own. 

References

Bjornson, Greta (May 29, 2020). ‘American Gospel Christ Alone’ Controversy: Why The Film is Dividing Netflix Viewers. Decider. www.decider.com/2020/05/29/american-gospel-netflix-controversy/. Retrieved September 13, 2020.

 

Pidcock, Rick (August 14, 2020). Six ways ‘American Gospel’ is small-minded and abusive. Baptist News Global. www.baptistnews.com/article/six-ways-american-gospel-is-small-minded-and-abusive/#.X15cS2hKi1t. Retrieved September 13, 2020.

 

Strachan, Owen (January 17, 2019). ‘American Gospel’ Blows a Hole in the Prosperity Gospel. The Gospel Coalition. www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/american-gospel-blows-hole-prosperity-gospel/. Retrieved September 13, 2020.

 

Vandenboom, Liza (June 22, 2020). “American Gospel” Shows Real-Life Consequences Of Poor Theology. Ministry Watch. www.ministrywatch.com/american-gospel-shows-tangible-consequences-of-poor-theology/. Retrieved September 13, 2020. 

The Book of Two Ways: not a typical Jodi Picoult story

 The Book of Two Ways is the newest book by bestselling author, Jodi Picoult. It is the story of Dawn Edelstein who survives a plane crash. In a single moment everything changes that as she prepares for the crash landing, her thoughts are not about her husband or daughter of a man she hasn’t seen in fifteen years. After the crash, she is given the option to be taken anywhere she wants to go. She knows she should go home to her husband and daughter but instead she hops on a plane to Cairo, Egypt where Wyatt Armstrong is an archaeologist studying the ancient burial sites. She wants to continue the work she left behind in Egypt as she was studying the Book of Two Ways, the first known map of the afterlife. It also means confronting her and Wyatt’s unresolved history. As the story unfolds, Dawn has two possible futures ahead of her and she confronts questions of what a life well-lived looks like, what do we leave behind when we leave this earth, and do we make choices or do our choices make us?

I have been a fan of Jodi Picoult’s for many years and I eagerly delved into The Book of Two Ways. Unfortunately, after the excitement of the opening chapter, I was quickly bored as the story gets bogged down with so much detailed information of hieroglyphs, Egyptian cultures, and quantum physics. It is a book about love and loss, life and death, and Egypt. Lots and lots of Egypt. The overload of information caused me to lose track of where I was in the story and how the information even fits into the story. This overload overpowers the emotional, human aspects that is usually characteristic of her books. It was hard to care for Dawn and her journey. At one point, she has sex with her husband after an argument and her husband thinks everything is fine, she proclaims that just because she had sex with him, everything was not fine. So why have sex with him? It is just one example of eyerolling moments. As a fan of Ms. Picoult, I say give The Book of Two Ways a pass.

 

The Book of Two Ways is available in hardcover, eBook, and audiobook.

A Strange Beginning: a story about the young life of Lord Byron

 A Strange Beginning by Gretta Curran Browne is book 1 of a seven-book series on the life of Lord Byron in which details the humble beginnings of one of England’s most famous poets. The story opens with a 10-year-old George Gordon who lives with his widowed mother and her maid. An avid reader and highly intelligent, young George thrived at school and was miserable at home. Until one day, his whole world would change. He would learn that everything he thought he knew about himself was a lie. He wasn’t a Gordon, he wasn’t poor. Soon a life of wealth and privilege would claim his life and would give him the opportunity to prove his worth on his terms. Covering Lord Byron from the age of 10 into his 20s, A Strange Beginning takes a deeper look into this iconic man.

A Strange Beginning is presented as a historical fiction, but it is more a fictionalized biography as the book’s description claims, “this is the true and meticulously researched story” and “ignoring all the old and unproven rumors and sensational scandals fabricated” at the time. I am familiar with Lord Byron’s poetry but was unaware of his personal life. I started it with interest as the opening pages were beautifully written but soon turned sour. Chapter after chapter, I lost interest. While I enjoyed reading about the events which would inspire his early poetry, the story was often dull and tedious. I don’t see myself continuing the series. However, if you are a fan of Lord Byron’s poetry, you might enjoy and find A Strange Beginning as well as the rest of the series, an interesting look into his life.

 

A Strange Beginning is available in hardcover, paperback, and eBook

Girl With A Gun: An Annie Oakley Mystery

 Girl With A Gun by Kari Bovee is an Annie Oakley Mystery. The story opens in 1885 as Annie joins Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show as the next American sharp-shooting sensation. Fifteen-year-old Annie is the sole supporter for her widowed mother and two younger siblings. As an expert marksman, she hunts and sells games to the local stories to make ends meet. After a stunning performance against the reigning marksman, Frank Butler, she is offered a spot in the Wild West Show. But she soon realizes that someone is out to get her. A series of crimes occur within the show’s camp including the death of her assistant, Annie doesn’t believe the official reports and soon becomes a target and a suspect. With the help of a sassy reporter, Annie is determined to solve the crimes and clear her name before it destroyed everything she has worked for. Will she find the truth before its too late?

I really wanted to like Girl With a Gun because I have always enjoyed stories which figure Annie Oakley. However, this story takes too many creative licenses about Annie’s life. In 1885, when Annie joins the Wild West Show, she is 25, not 15, already married to Frank Butler and they joined the show together. I feel that if you are going to write a story about a historical figure, you need to consider the major aspects of their life and keep to their timeline as much as possible. Ms. Bovee certainly could have done that and still presented a mystery that Annie would solve. That aside, the mysteries, the crimes themselves weren’t that interesting and when the culprit was reveal, it was a letdown. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. I do not recommend Girl With A Gun.

 

Girl With A Gun is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Happy National Guacamole Day!!!!

Today is Mexican Independence Day. It is also a day is the day to celebrate one of America’s, if not the most popular, dip, GUACAMOLE! It is an easy dish of avocados, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and seasonings. It can be basic or complex with flavors added to satisfy any palate. Avocados have become super popular for decades especially recently as it was declared a super food, packed with good fats and high in nutrients. What is the history of the avocado and guacamole? What variations are available for this popular dish? Why do people love avocados and guacamole so much? A simple internet search will produce countless guacamole recipe, I will provide one that is simple, easy and can be modified to various tastes.

Avocados originated with the Aztecs in Mexico and known as a “fertility fruit” (Amidor, 2009). It was first cultivated between 7,000 and 5,000 BC. The word, “guacamole” is from the Classical Nahuatl word meaning “avocado sauce.” Avocados, in general, as well as guacamole have become increasingly popular in the United States since the 1990s. Today, California is the leading producer of domestic avocados with 90% of the US crop coming from the Golden State (Amidor, 2009). There are multiple variations of a guacamole. First, Mantequilla de pobre is literally “poor man’s butter,” which is a mixture of avocado, tomato, oil and a citrus juice. Despite its name, it predates the arrival od dairy cattle in the Americas and was not originally used as a butter substitute. Second, Guasacaca is a Venezuelan avocado sauce made with vinegar. It is usually served with parrillas (grilled foods), arepas or empanadas.

Why is guacamole so popular? It is a dip that people will devour in minutes and fight each other for each bite. It can be eaten alone with chips or on a burger, sandwich, or anything you can think of. The possibilities are endless. First, it fits into any diet. It is kosher, Halal, gluten free, grain free, vegan and dairy free (Spigelman Richter, 2015). Second, it is healthy for you. As mentioned before, avocados are a superfood. It is packed with folate, potassium, and vitamin B (Spigelman Richter, 2015). It is also low in sugar, high in monounsaturated fat with no sodium or cholesterol. It is high in lutein, an antioxidant, which is good for healthy eyes, and beta-sitosterol, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol (Amidor, 2009) as well as the added benefit from the tomatoes, garlic and lime juice. However, avocados are high in calories. It is the one flaw in this otherwise amazing fruit. 

On April 6, 2018, Junta Local de Sandid Vegetal de Tancitaro achieved the Guinness World Record for the largest serving of guacamole (Guinness World Record, 2018). As part of Tancitaro’s 7^th Annual Avocado Festival in Tancitaro Michoacan, Mexico, guacamole was prepared, weigning in at 3,788 kg (8,351 lbs) and took more than 350 people to prepared. The recipe for guacamole is simple dish that be doubled, tripled or even quadrupled, depending on the party size. Traditionally, a mortar and pestle would be used to mash the avocados but a fork works just fine.

 A simple guacamole recipe:

Ingredients:

2 ripe avocados

2 tbsp onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 ripe tomato, chopped

The juice of 1 lime, add to taste

Salt and pepper to taste.

Peel and mash avocados in a medium serving bowl. Stir in onions, garlic, tomato, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. The ingredients can be increased or decreased depending on preferences. It can be made spicy by adding chopped and seeded jalapenos.

Guacamole is a great dip with chips or can be added to a variety of foods and dishes. Originally cultivated in Mexico by the Aztecs, avocados and guacamole has become a popular addition to cuisine of many cultures in the Americas. It is a simple dish to make and extremely popular at parties, gatherings or just to have on regular night. It is a great food with a variety of nutrients and fits into many diets. Happy National Guacamole Day! A salute to everyone’s favorite dip!

 

 

References

 

Amidor, Toby (January 2009). Why We Love Avocados. Food Network. www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/recipes/2009/01/why-we-love-avocados. Retrieved September 12, 2020.

 

Guinness World Record (April 6, 2018). Largest Serving of Guacamole. www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/largest-serving-of-guacamole/. Retrieved September 12, 2020.

 

Spigelman Richter, Sarah (August 22, 2015). 6 reasons guacamole is the unofficial dip of the people. Mashable. www.mashable.com/2015/08/22/guacamole-love/. Retrieved September 12, 2020.

Unrelenting: a story of love in a growing tense political climate

Unrelenting: Love and Resistance in Pre-War Germany is the first book in the World War II Trilogy by Marion Kummerow. It is the story of Dr. Wilhelm “Q” Quedlin and Hilde Dremmer as they met, fall in love and live in a increasing restrictive society with the rise of Hitler and the National Socialist German Worker’s Party. The story opens in October 1932 as Q is working in a lab on protections against chemical warfare when he is accused of espionage. When the accusation proves fruitless, Q is becoming more and more disillusioned with the path his country seems to be taking. At the same time, Hilde is working for an insurance company and has no interest in politics. Soon life becomes strict as they must prove they are of pure Aryan race to get married, to get a job, essentially to do anything.

Unrelenting is the story of Ms. Kummerow’s grandparents from 1932-1936 with books 2 and 3 continuing their story through the outbreak of war and it is aftermath. It is an awesome story and I liked that the author didn’t try to cram their whole story in one book but separated into 3 books. While I was bummed that I have wait to get the rest of the trilogy to finish their story; however, if Unrelenting is any indication, it will be worth the wait. I enjoyed that Unrelenting was going to take its time, the story wasn’t going to be rushed or jam packed with information that the impact of the events of their lives and time period would be lost. I enjoyed Q and Hilde, their love story, their struggles with the changing political climate of their country, their family, and friends. I highly recommend Unrelenting and I look forward to reading books 2 and 3.

 

Unrelenting is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

 

Book 2: Unyielding and Book 3 Unwavering is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

National Day of Encouragement: a great day to start a habit of encouraging others

Today is National Day of Encouragement. A day dedicated to uplifting people around us and making a positive impact. First created by the Encouragement Foundation at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. It was launched in an effort to create a habit of encouragement. Mayor Belinda LaForce of Searcy made the first proclamation on August 22, 2007 as a Day of Encouragement. Then Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe proclaimed September 12, 2007 as a State Day of Encouragement. Later President George W. Bush made September 12 the official National Day of Encouragement. Offering encouragement is free and can mean the world to someone who needs it. Reassuring words to anyone, even strangers, may make a difference in their lives.

Encouragement is the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope. Encouragement lifts someone up when they are down. It may motivate them to keep going, to keep their eye on their goals and dreams. When we’ve failed, words of encouragement can remind us to keep going. Albert Einstein said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” Encouragement in the midst of failure can help lead someone to the success they strive for. Charles Swindoll said, “Life is 10 perfect what happens to me and 90 percent how I react to it.” Encouragement is a part of that 90 percent, helping someone react positively or strive to overcome the 10 percent we cannot control. One of my favorite quotes from The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien is from the first book, The Fellowship of the Ring, when Gandalf encourages Frodo to move on. He says, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” Encouragement can help us do the best we can with the life we have been given, to strive to make it and the world a better place.

The right message may create the spark needed to help change someone’s outlook or perspective. Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” Many people find a why in faith and belief in a higher power. For me, my higher power is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through him who gives me strength.” As I have looked back on my life, the good times, the bad times, happy days, the sad days, I found encouragement in my faith. I also found music to be a great encouragement. One of my favorite songs to listen to when I need encouragement is “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. The ultimate anthem to move on, to rise up from being knocked down. Another favorite is “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. Even though the song is about recovering from a bad break up, the message of survival speaks to many situations. Particularly these lyrics: “I will survive/Oh, as long as I know how to love, I know I'll stay alive/I've got all my life to live/And I've got all my love to give and I'll survive.”

Here are a few simple ways for offer encouragement. First, tell someone “great job.” Noticing a job well done can improve someone’s day, to encourage them to keep up the good work in the future and helps them feel appreciated for their efforts. For example, managers to employers, teachers to students and parents to children, anyone can appreciate and needs a “great job” now and then. Second, give high fives or fist bumps. In addition to “great job” encouragement, a high five or fist bump further boost someone’s confidence and joy. Third, call, email, text someone you haven’t contacted in a while. A simple “How are you? I’m thinking of you,” can mean the world to someone who may be suffering in silence and need the encouragement to open up and reach out for help. This is especially important as September is also National Suicide Prevention Month and letting people know they are not alone is immensely helpful and encouraging. Lastly, simply smile more. There is a saying that states “Life is like a mirror, smile at it and it smiles back at you.” Smiling releases endorphins, which act like a pain reliever and helps reduce stress.

In conclusion, the goal of the National Day of Encouragement is help us develop the habit of recognizing the talents and efforts of others, so they continue to nurture and develop them. Encouragement can help our relationships at work, at home and in our communities. It doesn’t take much, simple acts of “great job,” a call or text, and even a smile with bring brightness to a dark world. Today and every day, send someone encouragement with a “great job,” a high five, a “I’m thinking of you” text, or if you can’t seem to find the right words, music is a great way to encourage others. You never know who needs to hear the words right now.

The Handfasters: a fast paced and enjoyable romance

 The Handfasters by Helen Susan Swift is the first book in the Lowland Romance series. The story opens as an old woman is writing her story for her descendants. The truth behind her life, her marriage, and their family. In 1811, Alison Lamont has been sent to her aunt in Edinburgh with the goal to find a suitable husband. After a disastrous night at a high society ball, Alison finds herself in the company of Willie Kemp, a local eccentric who spends his day tinkering with strange machines. Alison is immediately drawn to Willie but soon meets with a dilemma as her aunt wants her to marry a titled man. In her desperation, she runs to Willie for help. Willie has a plan; will Alison go along with it to escape a marriage trap? Is she walking into a worse situation?

The Handfasters is a fast paced and enjoyable story of romance, society and following your heart. I enjoyed all the characters even Alison’s annoying and obnoxious cousin, Louise. Alison had a mix of the typical of damsel in distress until the situation called for her own strength and courage. As the story progressed, I had a feeling there was more to Willie than he let on and when it is revealed, it is a great “I knew it!” moment. I also enjoyed Ms Swift’s descriptions of Edinburgh and differences between the ancient side of town and the newer, more modern side. Overall, I enjoyed the story and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. If you enjoy enjoyable romance set in the beautiful country of Scotland, I recommend The Handfasters.

 

The Handfasters

is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

The Republic: a political thriller of a dystopian American future

 The Republic is the first book in The Republic series by Jon Jacobs. It is the story of the Sarantakos family. In a time when all of America’s social ills have been “cured” and all are free. Unfortunately, it is all a façade. Paul and Rose Sarantakos are wealthy entrepreneurs when they are captured, drugged, and forced to sign over their fortune to the Social Order Administration as the government is in desperate need for revenue. Their son, Rand, is a scientific genius with degrees in physics, math, and electronics engineering. He soon becomes an enemy of the state as his discoveries terrify the SOA and threaten to expose the truth. The government soon sets out to eliminate Rand and his research and the family finds themselves on the run for their lives.

The Republic is a dystopian cautionary tale as what happens when the government takes too much control. The story was a bit hard to read as it had so many chapters as well as the subject matter hits close to home as our country seems to be heading in this country and many fighting to keep it from happening. Despite the dystopian theme and the risk to their lives, the main characters still acted and spoke as if life should go on as normal. For example, as their lives are being torn apart, Paul urges his son to attend school as planned. A government university? The same government just coerced you to hand over all of your wealth?! It didn’t fit with the rest of the story. However, if you enjoy dystopian political thrillers, I highly recommend The Republic.

 

The Republic

is available in eBook

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

 September is National Suicide Prevention Month. According to the CDC, 45,000 Americans will commit suicide every year. That’s 123 people a every day. One every 12 minutes. The impact of a suicide is felt by family and friends long after the loss their loved one. Often the questions of “why” and “why did I miss” will plague those felt behind with no real solutions. There is a stigma around mental illness. While mental health is important to our overall health, many will ignore it because they are afraid of the stigma and the comments. Two thirds of suicides suffer from depression. In the US, suicide is one of the top 10 leading causes of death for all ages (SAVE). What are the warning signs? What are the risk factors? What can you do to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts?

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicidal thoughts can affect everyone regardless of age, gender, or background. Suicide is often the result of untreated mental health conditions. Although suicidal thoughts are considered common, they should never be treated as normal. Only half of Americans who experience a major depressive episode will seek treatment, of those who do, 80-90% are successfully treated with therapy and/or medication (SAVE). Some of the warning signs include: 1) an increase use of alcohol or drugs, 2) aggressive behavior, 3) withdrawal from family and friends, 4) dramatic mood swings and 5) impulsive or reckless behavior. Someone who is considering suicide may collect weapons such as guns and knives or saving pills. One red flag I have always heard is to pay attention when someone is giving away possessions especially items with deep and personal meaning like family heirlooms. Also, behaviors such as tying up loose ends (i.e. organizing papers, paying of debts) and saying goodbye to family and friends should raise a red flag (NAMI).

There are several risk factors involved in suicide. First, a family history of suicide as well as substance abuse. 1 in 3 people who commit suicide are intoxicated at the time. This could be for many reasons, for example, to take away the edge and avoid any hesitation. Second, serious or chronic medical illness or even prolonged stress. A woman named Jo lost her husband to suicide who suffered from PTSD. He had carried a tremendous guilt and couldn’t cope, couldn’t process that guilt (Catlin, 2019). Third, while suicide affects everyone regardless of gender, women will attempt more suicides than men. However, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide (NAMI). Fourth, a history of trauma or abuse. Without proper care or professional help, individuals who suffer traumas or abuse can see no way out. Lastly, a recent tragedy or loss. Suicidal thoughts can be the result of the grieving process. Even though grief is a normal aspect of life, everyone responds differently to grief, I feel it is very important for those grieving seek some type of help whether it is an counselor or a support group, something to help the individual process each grieving step.  

Suicide is preventable. Most suicidal individuals want to live, they just aren’t able to see alternatives or solutions to their problems (Western Michigan University). Most people will give definite warnings. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the signs, overlook or ignore the signs or simply do not know how to respond. According to NAMI, the best way to respond to someone’s suicidal warning is to talk honestly. Don’t be afraid to ask, “Do you have a plan for how or when?” It is also important to remain calm and ask other simple and direct questions like “Can I call your doctor for you?” Express your concern and support and be patient. If you can, remove the person’s access to any weapons or pills. It is very important to never argue, threaten or raise your voice. Do not debate with the individual. The most important action is to get that person professional help as soon as possible. There are a number of resources for help. I have listed them before. They are available 24/7.

In conclusion, suicide is preventable. While many do not leave notes behind, there are warning signs to pay attention to prior to the attempt. Suicidal thoughts can affect everyone. Mental health is as important as our physical health. We need to take care of our minds as well as our bodies. We also need to pay attention to someone’s moods, behaviors, and statements for signs of suicidal tendencies. Sometimes they will be subtle and other they will be blatant and bold. Suicidal thoughts and statements need to be taken seriously. Speak honestly, calmly, and patently. There are many local and national resources for those who are considering suicide as well as those who know someone who may be considering it. There is help available and it is important to remind someone that they are not alone. You are not alone in this battle.

 

 Resources

If you or someone needs helps with suicidal thoughts, please contact any of the following organizations for help.

 National Alliance on Mental Illness: www.nami.org/Find-Support

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (US and Canada), 85258 (UK) or 50808 (Ireland) to connect with a Crisis Counselor

                                                                         References

Catlin, Caroline (December 19, 2019). Suicide Survivors Share Their Stories and Advice in These Photos. www.healthline.com/health/photo-essay-portraits-suicide-survivors-resilience#1. Retrieved September 1, 2020.

 

NAMI (no date). Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. National Alliance on Mental Illness. www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-awareness-month. Retrieved August 30, 2020.

 

SAVE (no date) Suicide Facts. Suicide Awareness Voices of Education. www.save.org/about-suicide/suicide-facts/. Retrieved September 1, 2020.

 

Western Michigan University (no date). Suicide Prevention Program. www.wmich.edu/suicideprevention/basics/facts. Retrieved September 1, 2020.

Over the Waters: a search for answers after losses

Over the Waters by Deborah Raney is the story of discovering there’s more to life than money. Dr. Max Jordan, aka “Dr Botox,” is a successful plastic surgeon in Chicago. Every decision he has made has focused on his career and his monetary success. He is shocked and angered that his only child, Joshua, after becoming a doctor, has decided to treat Haitian orphans. After Joshua’s death, a very bitter Max searches for answers in the orphanage that his son called home. Valerie Austin escapes to Haiti after the bitter break up of her engagement, seeks to find new meaning in her life. Will Max find his eyes opened to the truth in his son’s sacrifice and the sacrifice of those who work tirelessly for the orphans? Will he be able to find a freedom that he never knew he needed?

Over the Waters is a touching story of the conditions in Haiti, the people who live there and the humanitarian workers and missionaries who work to help those in need. The overall story of Max and Valerie left much to be desired. The book is billed as a romance and there was very little romance. Max was a hard character to like even when he softened a bit about his son’s choice. I had a bit more sympathy for Valerie. Overall, it was enjoyable but not memorable. If you are a fan of Ms Raney, you may enjoy Over the Waters.

Over the Waters

is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

Maggie for Hire: an Urban Fantasy that wasn't my taste

Maggie for Hire is the first book in the Maggie McKay Magical Tracker series by Kate Danley. Maggie is a 30-something Irish brunette in Los Angeles and she tracks the monster who roam the streets of Los Angeles. She gets the call to catch them and return them to the dimension where they belong. Maggie soon teams up with an elf named Killian as she learns her uncle has teamed up with the very monsters she hunts. Now she is in a race against time and a fight for everyone’s life as she needs to find a magical object stop the looming apocalypse. Is she up for the fight? Can she find this object in time?

Maggie For Hire is an Urban Fantasy story that intrigued me as I read the description. I thought it was like Supernatural (2005-2020) and eagerly dived into the book. Right off the bat, Maggie is abrasive and non-nonsense. Usually I enjoy these characteristics, however, in this case, Maggie was annoying. She is the typical hero, “I’m a loner and I don’t need help” but secretly is afraid to need help and ask for it. I usually don’t mind abrasive language but the language, and humor, which is meant to be edgy and witty, fell short. I wasn’t funny. I haven’t read Urban Fantasy books in a while, unfortunately, Maggie for Hire isn’t for me. However, you enjoy Urban Fantasy stories, you may enjoy Maggie for Hire as well as the rest of the series.

Maggie For Hire

is available in paperback and eBook