religion
How religion plays into corporate culture and office politics.
A Granddaughter’s Tribute. Content Warning.
As I sit down to write about the profound impact my grandmother had on my life, I am filled with a mix of emotions. Her love was a guiding force that empowered me and shaped the person I am today. From a young age, she instilled in me the values of discipline, hard work, and the importance of resilience. Her conditional love was a source of hope and strength that carried me through both joyful and challenging moments of my life. One of the most significant ways my grandmother influenced me was through her discipline. She taught me the value of perseverance and the rewards that come with dedication. Whether it was in the garden, where she patiently nurtured her plants, or in the kitchen, where she passed down her treasured recipes, she demonstrated the power of hard work and commitment. Her lessons in discipline became the foundation of my character, shaping my determination and work ethic. However, it was her unwavering love that truly defined our relationship. No matter the circumstance, her love for me was constant and unyielding. It provided me the sense of security and confidence, knowing that I always had her support. Her love was a source of hope that illuminated even the darkest moments of my life. When she passed, I felt as though a part of me was torn away. The pain was indescribable, and I struggled to come to terms with the void her absence left in my life. Yet, in the midst of my grief, I found solace in the enduring lessons she had imparted. Love and teachings continued to empower me, guiding me through the healing process and inspiring me to carry on her legacy. Though her physical presence may be gone, her love and empowerment live on within me. I honor her memory by embracing the values she cherished and sharing the lessons she taught me with others. I find strength in knowing that her love continues to shape and guide me, giving me the resilience to overcome life’s biggest challenges.My Grandmother’s love and empowerment remain a powerful force in my life, sustaining me through the trials and tribulations I encounter. In her memory, I strive to embody the qualities she so gracefully exemplified, and I am forever grateful for the profound impact she had on me. She may have passed, but her love and empowerment endure, forever shaping the person I am and the person I aspire to become.Crystal’s grandmama had a remarkable fondness for flowers, particularly the vibrant and fragrant blooms that adorned her garden. She would spend hours tending to her beloved plants, nurturing them with care and affection. Her grandmama also had a green thumb when it came to growing tomatoes, and it was a cherished tradition for Crystal and her grandmama to pick ripe tomatoes together during the warm summer months. Following her grandmama’s passing, Crystal often found herself missing those delightful moments spent in her company. As the weeks turned into months and the months into years, Crystal longed for a sign, something to remind her of the special bond she shared with her grandmama. One sunny afternoon, Crystal found herself lost in thought, gazing out of her bedroom window. Suddenly, a flash of red caught her eye. A vibrant cardinal perched itself on the windowsill, its feathers glistening in the sunlight. Crystal felt a warmth in her heart as she remembered her grandmama’s love for red birds and how her eyes would light up whenever one came into view.Days turned into weeks, and the presence of the cardinal at Crystal’s window became a common occurrence. Sometimes, when Crystal was feeling particularly down or missing her grandmama, the cardinal would appear as if on cue, perched on her windowsill, bringing comfort and a reminder of her love. Crystal felt a deep connection with her grandmama each time she saw the cardinal, and it became a source of solace during moments of sadness.But it wasn’t just the cardinal that gave Crystal reassurance that her grandmama was still with her. There were moments when things mysteriously went missing, and just as Crystal would begin to search for them, she would find them unexpectedly. It was as if her grandmama was playfully reminding Crystal of their days spent together, a subtle sign from above.One day, as Crystal was reminiscing about her grandmama while tending to her own garden, she noticed a familiar scent wafting through the air. It was the unmistakable fragrance of her grandmama’s favorite flowers, the same fragrance that would fill the air during their leisurely walks through the garden. Crystal’s eyes filled with tears as she realized that her grandmama’s love for flowers continued to surround her, even in the absence of her physical presence.The signs from above, whether it was the cardinal on the windowsill, the missing and found objects, or the fragrance of her grandmama’s favorite flowers, became Crystal’s way of staying connected with her grandmama. These signs served as a reminder that despite the physical separation, love transcends all boundaries and continues to exist in the simplest of things.Crystal learned to cherish these signs and shared them with her loved ones, spreading the message of love and connection that her grandmama had instilled in her. And though her grandmama may no longer be physically present, her spirit lives on through those signs, forever reminding Crystal of the unwavering love they shared and the cherished memories they created together.
By CRiS CaMP- Aint Heaven Grand2 years ago in Journal
Grace In Goodbye. Content Warning.
As I sat by my grandmother’s bedside in the quiet of her assisted living room, surrounded by the remnants of a life well-lived, I gently opened the worn pages of “Jesus Calling.” The familiar words of the daily devotional brought comfort and a sense of connection to the divine presence she had always cherished. My grandmother, a woman of unwavering faith who had spent her days in service to the Lord, had been my rock through the highs and lows of my life. But now, as dementia clouded her once-sharp mind and the ravages of age took their toll, I found myself in the role of caregiver, visiting her daily to read the words that brought her peace.Each day, as I fed her and read the devotional aloud, a flicker of recognition would light up her eyes, and a serene smile would grace her lips. It was in those moments that I felt closest to her, as if our souls were intertwined in a sacred bond that transcended time and space. But when the doctors delivered the devastating news of her declining health and impending passing, my heart shattered into a million pieces. The thought of saying goodbye to the one person who had always loved me unconditionally was unbearable. As we gathered around her in those final moments, my family granted me a precious gift — a moment alone with her. With tears streaming down my face, I poured out my heart to her, whispering my gratitude for her love and guidance, and promising to carry on her legacy of faith and love. In that sacred space between life and death, I made a solemn vow to her — a vow of sobriety and redemption. For years, I had struggled with addiction, hiding my pain and shame from the one person who had always seen the best in me. But as I held her frail hand in mine, I confessed my newfound strength and resolve to live a life she would be proud of. With a final prayer on my lips, I kissed her forehead and whispered my final goodbye. Through my tears, I could almost see her spirit soaring towards the heavens, released from the confines of her earthly body to dwell in eternal peace. And as I grieved her passing, I knew that her love and faith would always be with me, a guiding light in the darkness, reminding me of the grace and mercy that awaited us all in our eternal home. As I clutched the devotional in my trembling hands, I flipped to the page marked with today’s date, March 10th. The words seemed to leap off the page, their significance resonating deep within me. It was as if the universe was speaking through the pages of “Jesus Calling,” reaffirming what my heart already knew — that my beloved grandmother’s journey on this earth was coming to an end, and soon she would find eternal rest in the arms of her Savior. With a heavy heart and tear-streaked face, I made my way out of her room, the weight of impending loss pressing down on me like a leaden shroud. I found my mother and her sister in the hallway, and without a word, I showed them the devotional page for the day. As they read the words that had brought comfort and solace to our grandmother in her final days, a sense of peace settled over us, like a balm for our wounded hearts. We knew then, without a doubt, that today was the day she would leave us to join the heavenly choir, her spirit finally free from the confines of her earthly body. Gathering our strength and resolve, we returned to her bedside one last time, surrounding her with love and prayers as the final moments drew near. And as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its golden rays upon her peaceful face, she took her last breath, slipping quietly into the waiting embrace of her Lord and Savior. In that sacred moment of transition, I felt a profound sense of peace wash over me, knowing that she was no longer bound by pain or suffering, but soaring on wings of light towards a place of eternal joy and love. And as we bid her farewell, I whispered a prayer of gratitude for her life, her love, and the profound impact she had made on all who knew her. As we stood together in the fading light of that March evening, I knew that although her physical presence was gone, her spirit would forever dwell in our hearts, a beacon of hope and faith guiding us through the dark nights ahead. And as I clutched the devotional close to my chest, I felt her presence whispers of love and grace surrounding me, a reminder that she was now at peace in her eternal home.
By CRiS CaMP- Aint Heaven Grand2 years ago in Journal
Believe In Your Omnichannel Marketing Skills But Never Stop Improving
Believe In Your Omnichannel Marketing Skills But Never Stop Improving In today’s all conducive and comprehensive world, brands and entrepreneurs are brainstorming and strategizing the optimum way to market their products. We live in an era where everything is available in an instant. The availability of information in a split second and the access to multiple alternatives of the same commodity have fostered cutthroat competition.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Journal
The little village with a big heart
Nestled in a lush valley, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, lay the quaint village of Bramblewood. This little village, with its cobblestone streets and charming cottages, was known far and wide not just for its scenic beauty but for the warmth of its residents. In Bramblewood, kindness wasn't just an occasional act; it was a way of life.At the heart of Bramblewood was a small bakery owned by Mrs. Eleanor Harper, a widow with a heart as warm as her freshly baked bread. Eleanor's late husband, Henry, had built the bakery from the ground up, and after his passing, the villagers rallied around Eleanor, ensuring that she never felt alone. Every morning, as the first light of dawn kissed the village, the aroma of Eleanor’s baking wafted through the air, drawing people in for their daily bread and a dose of her infectious smile.One frosty December morning, Eleanor noticed a newcomer sitting on the bench outside her bakery. The young woman, clad in a worn-out coat, looked tired and lost. Eleanor, with her innate kindness, brought out a steaming cup of cocoa and a freshly baked pastry.“Good morning, dear. You look like you could use something warm,” she said, handing the treats to the stranger.The woman looked up, tears brimming in her eyes. “Thank you,” she whispered. “I’m Lily. I just moved here, hoping for a fresh start.”Eleanor’s heart swelled with compassion. “Welcome to Bramblewood, Lily. This village has a way of taking care of its own. Come inside, warm up, and tell me your story.”As the days passed, Lily’s story unfolded. She had left a turbulent life in the city, seeking peace and a new beginning. The villagers, with their big hearts, welcomed her with open arms. They helped her find a small cottage to rent, and soon, Lily became a familiar face in the village. She started working at the bakery, learning the trade from Eleanor and bringing her own touch to the pastries.One day, as winter tightened its grip on Bramblewood, a fierce storm swept through the valley. The snow piled high, cutting off the village from the outside world. But in Bramblewood, no one was ever truly isolated. The villagers banded together, shoveling paths, sharing firewood, and ensuring everyone was safe and warm.Eleanor, despite her age, was out in the snow, delivering bread to those who couldn’t make it to the bakery. On one such trip, she slipped on the icy path and fell. Lily, who had grown incredibly fond of Eleanor, found her and quickly helped her back home. Eleanor’s ankle was badly sprained, rendering her unable to bake.Word of Eleanor’s injury spread quickly through the village. Without a second thought, the villagers came together to keep the bakery running. Under Lily’s guidance, they mixed dough, rolled pastries, and kept the ovens firing. What could have been a disaster turned into a heartwarming display of community spirit.As the storm raged outside, the bakery became a beacon of warmth and light. Families gathered, sharing stories and laughter. The air was filled with the scent of fresh bread and the sound of music as local musicians played tunes that brought smiles to every face.In the midst of this, Lily realized she had found not just a place to live, but a true home. The villagers, with their unwavering support and kindness, had given her a sense of belonging she had never known before. Tears of gratitude filled her eyes as she watched children play, couples dance, and friends share heartfelt conversations.One evening, as the storm began to subside, the villagers gathered for a special celebration at the bakery. They wanted to honor Eleanor for her unwavering kindness and Lily for her resilience and hard work. The small bakery was filled to the brim with people, their faces aglow with happiness.Eleanor, sitting with her leg propped up, looked around at her beloved village. “I’m so proud of all of you,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “This place, these people—you are what makes Bramblewood special. You’ve shown me that together, we can weather any storm.”Lily stepped forward, holding a beautifully decorated cake. “This is for you, Eleanor. You’ve taught me what it means to be part of a community, to give and receive love and kindness. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to call home.”As the villagers cheered and shared slices of cake, a deep sense of joy and gratitude filled the room. The storm outside had brought them closer, strengthening the bonds that made Bramblewood so unique.In the months that followed, Lily and Eleanor continued to run the bakery together, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. The village of Bramblewood, with its big heart, continued to thrive, a shining example of the power of kindness and community. And whenever a newcomer arrived, they were welcomed with open arms, just as Lily had been, ensuring that the spirit of Bramblewood lived on.The little village with a big heart had proven that no matter how fierce the storm, the warmth of kindness and community could light the way to unexpected joy.
By William Okwuosa2 years ago in Journal
What Incident Changed Your Life?
Surat, the diamond capital of India, has always been a city of contrasts. Glittering wealth is juxtaposed with the toil of the workers who cut and polish those precious stones. It was within this milieu that Jaydeep’s story unfolded, a tale of resilience and familial sacrifice that would shape his character and future. On August 12, 2003, the eve of his 11th birthday, Jaydeep lay under a blanket, eagerly anticipating the celebrations the next day. Birthdays meant chocolates shared with classmates, a rare treat that filled him with joy. But that night, as he drifted towards sleep, an unexpected conversation between his parents altered his world. Jaydeep’s father, once a skilled diamond worker, had been laid off from his job four to five months prior. The glittering industry was not without its shadows, and the workers often bore the brunt of economic downturns and management whims. In the face of unemployment, his father had turned to selling chocolates to shopkeepers, pedaling through the streets on a bicycle from dawn till dusk. “Tomorrow is Jaydeep’s birthday. So give me a bag of chocolates,” his mother said, her voice carrying a mix of hope and resignation. “I can give you but…” his father hesitated. “But what?” his mother pressed. “One bag of chocolates will cost me my one week’s earnings.” Silence hung in the air, heavy and suffocating. Then, his mother began to cry. Listening from his bed, Jaydeep felt a rush of emotions he could barely understand. The stark reality that his father’s entire week’s earnings equated to a single bag of chocolates was a revelation that shook him deeply. His school fee was 90 rupees, a sum that now seemed colossal against his father’s meager earnings. Unable to sleep, Jaydeep cried quietly under his blanket, the weight of his family’s financial struggles pressing down on his young shoulders. This moment marked a turning point in his life, instilling in him a premature sense of responsibility and a deep empathy for his father’s hardships. Determined to contribute, Jaydeep took a job at a local vadapav shop, washing dishes for 10 rupees a day. The work was arduous, but the knowledge that he could cover his school fees in nine days filled him with a sense of purpose and relief. This experience not only helped alleviate some of the financial burdens but also taught him the value of hard work and money. Over the years, Jaydeep and his father often clashed, their opinions differing on many matters. Yet, Jaydeep always deferred to his father’s judgment, acknowledging the sacrifices he had made for the family. This respect was rooted in a profound understanding of his father’s dedication and relentless efforts to provide for them. The lessons Jaydeep learned from those difficult days stayed with him. He never took change from small vendors or rickshaw drivers after evening, aware of the struggles they faced. He avoided celebrating his birthday, preferring to use the money to help those in need. Food wastage was anathema to him; he ate whatever was on his plate without complaint, knowing the pangs of hunger some families endured. Even as Jaydeep’s circumstances improved, his early experiences continued to influence his actions. He booked AC train and flight tickets for his family, ensuring their comfort, but he chose to travel in sleeper and general classes whenever possible. This was not just about frugality; it was a reminder of his journey and the importance of humility and empathy. For many, these might seem like small, inconsequential acts. But for Jaydeep, they were daily affirmations of the values instilled in him during those formative years. They were reflections of a maturity forged in the crucible of hardship, a testament to the enduring impact of a father’s sacrifice and a mother’s tears. In the bustling city of Surat, amidst the sparkle of diamonds, Jaydeep’s story shines as a beacon of resilience and the profound love that binds a family together. His journey from a child who cried over the cost of chocolates to a man who values every rupee is a poignant reminder of the power of adversity to shape character and destiny.Start writing...
By Stesha Chichi2 years ago in Journal
The Burning Light Within: Unlocking Our Collective Power
Does the world still await a messiah? Anticipating the messiah as foretold by the elders of old, we live in a time of hope and greed, good and evil. The necessity of one’s circumstance often outweighs the consequences of sin.
By Marcelinus Apakhade2 years ago in Journal
Daydream
The horizon gleamed with pastel clouds brushing some gentle strokes through the uranian canvas. The sun looked tired with its illumination dimming down, tired of scattering its luminescence throughout the sphere only to get condemned in return. Hence that Ochre orb scattered an auburn hue of sorrow making the sky mourn with salmon splashing through the mauve surface.
By Sumayya Sharmin 2 years ago in Journal
Gaza Sees Dozens Killed as Hamas Vows to 'Break' Israel.
Israeli forces have largely withdrawn from Gaza, priming for an offensive on the southern city of Rafah, where over 1 million Palestinians seek shelter. However, clashes persist in different regions.
By Ved Prakash Vishwakarma2 years ago in Journal
Echoes of Words . Content Warning.
In a small town nestled between rolling hills and meandering streams, there lived an elderly woman named Eleanor. Her weathered hands, stained with the ink of countless letters, told the story of a life dedicated to correspondence. In an age where emails and texts dominated communication, Eleanor remained steadfast in her belief in the power of letters.
By RAVI KUMAR2 years ago in Journal
Leana's Day
Said I can't wait till He wipes every tear from my eye. Said I can't wait till He wipe every tear from my eye. He's gonna wipe every tear from my eye oh my. He's gonna wipe every tear from my eye oh my. I could hear the choir from church now practicing over and over again. As the church was not too far from my home. My grandmother who raised me and gave me everything that I had. She taught me to revere God. That even though sometimes He works mysteriously that things would work out. My parents lost custody because they became too poor and the bills add up. But I respect them for giving birth to me and helping grandma pay the bills. My grandmother taught me how to read and write. She taught me how to be a good person. And she made sure that I did really well. I remember how she was there for me each time rain or shine. And I loved her dearly. When I graduated from school, she was old but still strong strong like Black Coffee in the morning. She would always sing in the morning, sing when she was working, sing when she was cooking. And eventually she taught me how to sing. I loved this song of hers. Sweet Lord Sweet Lord why don't you come by here. Ohhhh Sweet Lord Sweet Lord we need to hear from you. Sweet Lord Sweet Lord you know you are needed and your people want a touch from you. I could not afford to go to college because I did not have the funds. I was one of the smartest students, did really well in school but I could not afford the funds. So I worked at a coffee shop and I met some church folks. Hey Leana aren't you Mrs. Betters' grandchild. I was shy at first but gave in. Yes it's little Leana. I love this job. It pays well and I could make an earning. The folks said I bet you know how to sing because Mrs. Betters was known for singing. Boy she could tear a house down with her voice. Her voice is like an angel. Sing for us. Go up on stage and sing for us. I resisted I don't know. Singing ain't gonna pay my bills. Now just enjoy your meal and I will let grandma know about it. The folks said You know God. God doesn't like people hiding talent. God doesn't like pride. God gave us talent to used when we go through something and to give Him the glory. That's what Bishop Press said. And I shyly went away politely. After sometime, I thought of what they said in the back of my mind while working. And my friend Jenne said Leana you worked here for years and they did not give you a raise. They gave that other new girl a raised. I said Jenne mind your business. My grandmother really need the money plus she let me get things. And I can't afford college. Jenne said Girl they are using us, they are keeping the tips and they are making us work overtime for free. I said What? I am calling the manager because that is robbery. I am not gonna work for free and not receive benefits. So I quitted working and asked to speak to the manager. Mr. Bryant I can't work for free. I got to pay bills. My grandmother depend upon it. You can't expect people to be loyal to a job that uses them. Mr. Bryant said That's the rule if you don't like some of our practice. You are welcome to leave. We have a strict budget and we can't afford to pay overtime. I said Well it's not like you have paid for me for my overtime and you never gave me a raise in upton amount of years. I should just walk out. Mr. Bryant said if you quit then you are not welcome back. I walked and said fine. I hugged and said good bye to Jenne. Jenne said Girl what are you gonna do. I said I got something saved up. And I started singing my way out. Doesn't make a difference what you say. Doesn't make a difference what you do. Doesn't make a difference unless you be true. O Help me Lord Help me see my way. As I was walking home, I had to figure my life out. I passed the playground and my old school just when the sun was setting and walk two miles home with some food and water. I felt the gentle breeze and got out of the way of the fast moving cars. I came home early asking for my grandmother. And my mother showed up, Leana why aren't you at work? I said Mom they cheated me over and over again. And I ain't gonna be cheated. I worked there for years no raise. But they gave it to a new girl. Mom said well maybe you can work for the church. I said the Church oh no no no. Mom said Remember child your father and I was paying your grandmother's bills. We were the people behind her care for you. And now it's time to grow up and be the woman we know you are. We have somethings. You are not alone. And we can fix those years of struggling. I said Mom you weren't there for me. I forgive you. And grandma told me you cared but let me choose my life. I started walking toward the stairs. Mom said Leana Bishop Press is coming by to offer you a job. I suggested you get ready and suit up because you will serve in the church. You will sing for her. And I meant that. I said Oh Mom. Then Bishop Press with church staff came by around 7pm. And they were talking to Mom and chatting for hours. And Mom called me. And I said Mom where is grandma. Mom said she is out with your father. They are shopping. I said for what. Mom said what do you mean for what? Maybe a gift for you. I can't tell. I said Alright Mom I will do it. I ain't got no job anyways. Mom said Sing without the piano and then with. I sang Jesus Jesus give me this day. My daily bread and let me see no evil. I want to walk with you. I want to be with you. Heaven's my true home. Take me there someday oh someday. Then the ministers clap loudly. And Bishop Press said Why am I hearing her now? Child God took that job away because He has big plans for you. You can be somebody. And forgive that job that was just a stepping stone. Let go. Life is too great to be angry. Life is too great to be ugly. Life is too great to be miserable. God is life and life abundantly. Trust Him to supply your need according to his riches and glory. And let the ulginess die, let people who bring out the ugly in you I mean it let them go. Let situations that bring out your worse let it go. Let the pain, the offense, and the hurt go. And I turned to my Mother with tears in my eye and said Mom I love you and I love Dad. I forgive you for not raising me. Mom cried I tried but they took you away. We tried but you're okay and we never stop fighting for you. And I hugged Mom then I played the piano singing Dear Jesus I love you. You are where my source come from. You are my help. You are my strength. I will always trust you. I will always obey. For Dear Jesus I love you. I love you.
By Distinguished Honorary Alumni Dr. Matthew Primous2 years ago in Journal
The Evolution of Consumer Behavior: A Deep Dive into Retail Therapy
Beyond Materialism: The Psychological Motivations Behind Retail Therapy Most people can understand the happiness that comes from purchasing something for oneself when we talk about needing some retail therapy. Can shopping truly improve our mood? Clinical psychologist Scott Bea, PsyD, affirms that shopping can have psychological and therapeutic benefits as long as it is done in moderation, according to research. Engaging in shopping activities, whether online or in person, can provide a psychological and emotional boost. Even just browsing can bring happiness, but it's important to be mindful of your spending habits. Dr. Bea outlines various explanations for the phenomenon.
By Hridya Sharma2 years ago in Journal
A Day in the Life of North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un. Content Warning.
Do you have any idea of the day in the life of whom? Get ready to board the isle of the glitters, power plays and secret games, for a fantastic voyage into the captivating realm of North Korea’s Kim family rule.
By Amine Oubih2 years ago in Journal
