Monday, December 13, 2010
Burns' Love Poem
Music From Animoto Stock Music Selection
Song: Fall by Jasmine Ash
Picture Links:
Flying Angel
Stars in the Sky
Hearted Skittles
Two Swans
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard Summary
Made on Wondersay - Animate text with style
Gray, Thomas. “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard.” British Literature. Ronald A. Horton. 2nd ed. Greenville: BJU Press, 2003. 475-479. Print.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Praise Song
Wandering in the darkness,
While the thick fog surrounds me.
Oh where should I go now?
Lord guide me on my way!
Teach me the paths to take,
On the walk unto your majesty.
Oh thank you Lord,
For loving me!
[Chorus]
Praise you in the darkness
Praise you in the light
Praise you through the hard times
Through your Son Jesus Christ!
Praise you in the winter
And praise you in the storms
Oh praise your mighty name on high!
Squinting through the shadows,
I can see your guiding hand.
Oh which way should I choose?
Lord guide me on my way!
Teach me the paths to take,
On the walk unto your majesty.
Oh thank you Lord,
For loving me!
[Repeat Chorus]
While the thick fog surrounds me.
Oh where should I go now?
Lord guide me on my way!
Teach me the paths to take,
On the walk unto your majesty.
Oh thank you Lord,
For loving me!
[Chorus]
Praise you in the darkness
Praise you in the light
Praise you through the hard times
Through your Son Jesus Christ!
Praise you in the winter
And praise you in the storms
Oh praise your mighty name on high!
Squinting through the shadows,
I can see your guiding hand.
Oh which way should I choose?
Lord guide me on my way!
Teach me the paths to take,
On the walk unto your majesty.
Oh thank you Lord,
For loving me!
[Repeat Chorus]
Monday, November 29, 2010
Hymn
"You Raise Me Up" - Selah
The hymn "You Raise Me Up" by Selah is such a powerful and meaningful song, exhibited through both the lyrics and the singers' emotions. This song is so significant to me because it deeply explains God's ultimate power and how he lifts us up through rough times. God is our strength, and is with us always and forever. The power that lies within this song is unbelievable. Whenever I come home from school having a bad day, I can listen to this song and receive instant joy and satisfaction, putting tears in my eyes and heart. It also allows me to see and feel eternity. This is one of the songs that helps me to keep my trust in God, for I know that He is my strength and personal Savior. I love this song so much, and I thank the Lord for being my strength when I am weak.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A Modest Proposal Response
Jonathan Swift's writing clearly demonstrates some very extreme solutions throughout his proposal. He wrote this proposal for the children of the poor people of Ireland, and tried to make their presense beneficial to the country. Swift's solution to this problem was very sick and disgusting. The thought of eating infants and other people gives me such a sick feeling inside. Although some of his supporting information regarding his solution may somewhat make sense, it still reveals that this is one of the most disgusting and secular ideas ever. This solution is definitely against the Bible because God creates all people with a purpose and in His very own image. If a person ate another person, it is simply destroying one of God's unique creations that He Himself created. Everything that God creates is a miracle in itself, which supports the fact that life is precious. This piece of writing is extremely graphic, and definitely, very disgusting.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Modern Connection
Love Story
Taylor Swift
I close my eyes
And the flashback starts
I'm standing there
On a balcony in summer air
See the lights
See the party, the ball gowns
I see you make your way through the crowd
And say hello, little did I know
That you were Romeo, you were throwing pebbles
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
And I was crying on the staircase
Begging you please don't go, and I said
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
So I sneak out to the garden to see you
We keep quiet 'cause we're dead if they knew
So close your eyes
Escape this town for a little while
'Cause you were Romeo, I was a scarlet letter
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
But you were everything to me
I was begging you please don't go and I said
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
Romeo save me, they try to tell me how to feel
This love is difficult, but it's real
Don't be afraid, we'll make it out of this mess
It's a love story baby just say yes
Oh oh
I got tired of waiting
Wondering if you were ever coming around
My faith in you is fading
When I met you on the outskirts of town, and I said
Romeo save me I've been feeling so alone
I keep waiting for you but you never come
Is this in my head? I don't know what to think
He knelt to the ground and pulled out a ring
And said, marry me Juliet
You'll never have to be alone
I love you and that's all I really know
I talked to your dad, go pick out a white dress
It's a love story baby just say yes
Oh, oh, oh, oh
'Cause we were both young when I first saw you
__________________________________________________
This song relates to Steele's "No. 1 Tuesday, April 12, 1709" because of the similarities of the central messages found in both of the works. One of the key messages that is quite prevalent through both stories is the idea of love at first sight. In Steele's story, he speaks about an attractive lady that he sees, and instantly discovers some love for her. After only seeing her for a short time, he goes around and looks for her. Correspondingly, in Swift's song, she speaks about the love she had for a boy, even at a young age. As time went on, she would still continuously chase after the same guy, until they finally got married. The love portrayed in Steele's story is definitely analogous to the love found in Taylor Swift's song.
___________________________________________________
Steele, Richard. "The Tatler No. 1." British Literature. Ronald A. Horton. 2nd ed. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 396. Print.
Swift, Taylor. "LOVE STORY Lyrics." Song Lyrics. Web. 18 Nov. 2010. <http://www.elyrics.net/read/t/taylor-swift-lyrics/love-story-lyrics.html>.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Dryden's Satire
According to the first paragraph of "Of Satire," what is the purpose of satire?
-The purpose of satire is to provide an example for all of the depraved people. If satire is used right, the wicked may turn away from their iniquities.
What does Dryden say in the second paragraph is the type of satire he admires most, and to what does he attribute one's ability to use this type of satire successfully?
-The type of satire that he admires the most is gentle mockery, or mild derision. To obtain the ability to use this successfully, one must be born with the genius thinking.
What words does he use to show his disapproval of harsher forms of satire?
-In the second paragraph, Dryden uses the words "a fool, a blockhead, or a knave" to exhibit opposition in the use of shameful terms upon others (Horton 382).
Dryden, John. "Of Satire." British Liturature. Ronald A. Horton. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 377-383. Print.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Pilgrim's Progress
Picture from Creaza's stock images.
Bunyan, John. "Pilgrim's Progress." British Liturature. Ronald A. Horton. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 344-363. Print.
Bunyan, John. "Pilgrim's Progress." British Liturature. Ronald A. Horton. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 344-363. Print.
SparkNotes. "The Pilgrim's Progress: Story." SparkNotes: Today's Most Popular Study Guides. Web. 13 Nov. 2010. <http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/pilgrims/context.html>.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A One Day Diary
November 10, 2010
Upon waking up to a fresh Wednesday morning, I thanked the Lord for another day of life. The thought of the all-so-near memorization test was overwhelming my mind with anxiety and nervousness, especially since it was a large chunk of my grade. Being a little tired from the late night of studying, I got ready a little slower than usual. I made it to school right on time, walking into homeroom right as the bell rang. The thought of the test never left my mind while waiting for the second period bell to ring. Finally, the hour came, and the test was placed on my desk. Before anything, I prayed to God for guidance and remembrance. After 40 minutes of intense thinking, it was finally done! The rest of the day went on so smoothly and I was overwhelmed with happiness, especially since the thought of the test was finally out of my mind. My yummy lunch of teriyaki chicken made my day even better. To top my day off, a second-grader named Christopher in my TA class told me that I was awesome. School was great! When school ended, I had to say goodbye to some of my friends who went on the Northland trip. I later went home to watch the senior volleyball game on television. I thank the Lord for such a wonderful day and I pray that I did well on my test!
Upon waking up to a fresh Wednesday morning, I thanked the Lord for another day of life. The thought of the all-so-near memorization test was overwhelming my mind with anxiety and nervousness, especially since it was a large chunk of my grade. Being a little tired from the late night of studying, I got ready a little slower than usual. I made it to school right on time, walking into homeroom right as the bell rang. The thought of the test never left my mind while waiting for the second period bell to ring. Finally, the hour came, and the test was placed on my desk. Before anything, I prayed to God for guidance and remembrance. After 40 minutes of intense thinking, it was finally done! The rest of the day went on so smoothly and I was overwhelmed with happiness, especially since the thought of the test was finally out of my mind. My yummy lunch of teriyaki chicken made my day even better. To top my day off, a second-grader named Christopher in my TA class told me that I was awesome. School was great! When school ended, I had to say goodbye to some of my friends who went on the Northland trip. I later went home to watch the senior volleyball game on television. I thank the Lord for such a wonderful day and I pray that I did well on my test!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Baxter and Rutherford Letter
My Dear Friend,
The trials that you have faced throughout your life were quite challenging to overcome. Do you agree? As a follower of Christ, I am sure you're aware of the many dangers lingering within this world. But how about those who do not know Christ as their personal Savior? They are vulnerable to these dangers, especially since they don't have the shield of the powerful God surrounding them. The dangers are even greater now in the present time because of the many religious controversies taking place throughout the globe. But how does this relate to you, you may ask? Think about it. These lost people need help finding the armor of the Almighty Savior, dear friend. May I challenge you to go out and save the wretches? Help them to overcome their inner spiritual confusion and to obtain the knowledge of God's everlasting love. For you want them to follow in Christ's footsteps so that they can forever walk with the one and only Lord God. Use your faith to witness to others, and maybe those born again believers can also enjoy too the everlasting gifts of comfort and eternal life.
God bless you,
Yours truly,
Shayne
References:
The trials that you have faced throughout your life were quite challenging to overcome. Do you agree? As a follower of Christ, I am sure you're aware of the many dangers lingering within this world. But how about those who do not know Christ as their personal Savior? They are vulnerable to these dangers, especially since they don't have the shield of the powerful God surrounding them. The dangers are even greater now in the present time because of the many religious controversies taking place throughout the globe. But how does this relate to you, you may ask? Think about it. These lost people need help finding the armor of the Almighty Savior, dear friend. May I challenge you to go out and save the wretches? Help them to overcome their inner spiritual confusion and to obtain the knowledge of God's everlasting love. For you want them to follow in Christ's footsteps so that they can forever walk with the one and only Lord God. Use your faith to witness to others, and maybe those born again believers can also enjoy too the everlasting gifts of comfort and eternal life.
God bless you,
Yours truly,
Shayne
References:
Horton, Ronald A. British Literature. Greenville, SC: BJU Press, 2003.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Carmen Figuration
Stairs of Faith
See far downWhere pain is shown!
In an ambiance of shady brown,
Within a mysterious place so unknown.............
Go up there,
To the truth and light!
With one another to share
.............The everlasting peace and delight!
Monday, November 1, 2010
"Still to Be Neat" Analysis
Jonson: "Still to Be Neat"
I deem this poem has literary worth not only because its brilliantly written, but also because it exhibits marvelous traces of imagery, aesthetics, and the portrayal of an all-so-important theme. The central theme of "inner beauty" can be clearly seen through the speaker's annoyance of the woman's constant fuss over her own physical appearance. He wanted the woman's true inner beauty the shine through.
"Still to Be Neat"
Still to be neat, still to be dressed, [Represents someone who is always trying to look neat and beautiful.]
As you were going to a feast; [Like a fancy banquet in today's time.]
Still to be powdered, still perfumed: [The woman needs to be "freshened" up with perfume and powder since baths weren't done on a regular basis.]
Lady, it is to be presumed, [Something he imagines to be probable.]
Though art's hid causes are not found, [The art hides the physical flaws of the woman.]
All is not sweet, all is not sound. [It is all not as good as it seems.]
Still to be powdered, still perfumed: [The woman needs to be "freshened" up with perfume and powder since baths weren't done on a regular basis.]
Lady, it is to be presumed, [Something he imagines to be probable.]
Though art's hid causes are not found, [The art hides the physical flaws of the woman.]
All is not sweet, all is not sound. [It is all not as good as it seems.]
Give me a look, give me a face, [To see the physical beauty.]
That makes simplicity a grace; [The appreciation of natural and true beauty.]
Robes loosely flowing, hair as free: [Exemplifies the natural look.]
Such sweet neglect more taketh me [The want for uncomplicated beauty instead of "fake" beauty.]
Than all the adulteries of art; [Woman's constant primping makes things bad.]
They strike mine eyes, but not my heart. [Values inner beauty over outer luxury.]
This poem contains an abundance of truth within it, which makes it really enjoyable and applicable. After reading the poem a few times, I finally realized the theme that this poem was trying to convey. The poem was short, but still was very detailed and demonstrated imagery well. Jonson did an amazing job painting images of the setting and the woman herself. He also did a great job displaying the thoughts and feelings of the speaker. True inner beauty is better than the fake complicated beauty of primp women.
I strongly believe that anyone planning on getting married should follow what Jonson is trying to say throughout his poem. To see a person's real beauty, take a look INSIDE and see where his/her heart is, especially through faith. A person with good looks and expensive clothes can sometimes be attractive, but people need to fight the urge to judge people from their outer appearances and start looking within. This poem not only applies to those getting married, but also to people who talk to others and make friends. Who cares what they look like on the outside? What truly matters to God is what lies within the person. I need to challenge myself to follow what is being said throughout Jonson's poem and remember to search within to find what true beauty really is. I can specifically apply this to my own life by being nice to everyone in my school, including those who are not the most physically attractive. Maybe one day, one of these people will become one of my closest friends since his/her "insides" would be just so beautifully attractive!
References:
Jonson, Ben. "Still to Be Neat." British Liturature. Ronald A. Horton. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 301-303. Print.
Jonson, Ben. "Still to Be Neat." British Liturature. Ronald A. Horton. Greenville: BJU Press. 2003. 301-303. Print.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Donne Video Response
Works Cited:
Claybaugh, Winn. "Celebrities Who Make a Difference." Be Nice or Else. Web. 28 Oct. 2010. <http://www.beniceorelse.com/newsletter/documents/March2007.pdf>.
Rachal, Venus. "Celebrities Making a Difference in the World With Humanitarian Efforts, Donations." Associated Content. Web. 28 Oct. 2010.
<http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/32919/celebrities_making_a_difference_in.html>.
United Way:
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Friday, October 22, 2010
Macbeth Analysis Outline
13. Banquo is told that he'll never be king, but his children will be. He did "right" for the next generation, but could you be like that? Could you do things for your children and the future that you'll never see the results of? (Examples - preserving wildlife, taking care of your body in order not to pass down disease to your kids, installing solar panels, investing money into private accounts....)
Thesis:
Banquo's attitude of "doing right" for the next generation relates to me because I would do my best to give as much as I could for my kids and grandchildren, hopefully improving the outcome of their futures.
I. Providing for my kids the best education possible.
a. Gives my kids more knowledge and the capability to be smarter than the average child.
b. A better education increases the likelihood of a successful occupation.
c. The education will hopefully pay off in the future, giving them a stronger understanding of how to manage their lives.
II. Teaching my kids how to recycle.
a. If my kids continue to recycle throughout their lifetimes, the land will improve and therefore have less waste products at landfills.
a. If my kids continue to recycle throughout their lifetimes, the land will improve and therefore have less waste products at landfills.
b. A cleaner Earth provides a lot more enjoyment and happiness.
c. The kids could pass the knowledge on to others.
III. Bringing my kids to church as much as possible.
a. Instills the truth of God into my kids at a young age.
b. The ability to carry on the truth and witness to others who do not know it.
c. If they continue to follow the right path, they will have the best future imaginable.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Shakespeare's Works
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Love Languages
I feel loved when...
The Five Love Languages
My Primary Love Language is Quality Time
My Detailed Results: | |
---|---|
Quality Time: | 10 |
Words of Affirmation: | 6 |
Physical Touch: | 6 |
Acts of Service: | 5 |
Receiving Gifts: | 3 |
About this quiz
Unhappiness in relationships is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. It can be helpful to know what language you speak and what language those around you speak.Tag 3 people so they can find out what their love language is.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
Howard's The Fancy of a Wearied Lover
Check this out on Chirbit
Movie created with Audacity found at http://audacity.sourceforge.net/.
Movie hosted by Chirbit found at http://www.chirbit.com/home.
Reading source:
Howard, Henry. "Henry Howard. The Fancy of a Wearied Lover. The Fancy, Which That I Have Served Long." Luminarium: Anthology of English Literature. Web. 01 Oct. 2010. <http://www.luminarium.org/renlit/thefancy.htm>.
Music Source:
Zhyvalevsky, V., and B. Spector, orchs. Cond. V. Baydov. Vilna Tablature. Classic-vanguard. V. Baydov, 1600. MP3.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Book of Common Prayer

Five important concepts:
1. Love
2. Unity
3. Commitment
4. Gift
5. Loyalty
Picture Websites:
http://uk.reuters.com/resources/r/?m=02&d=20100707&t=2&i=148535859&w=460&fh=&fw=&ll=&pl=&r=2010-07-07T095422Z_01_BTRE6660RIQ00_RTROPTP_0_LUXURY-SUMMIT-RING
http://www.zingerbug.com/
http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2010/02/mnik-row-bollywood-unity-anurag-kashyap.html
http://www.metaphysics-for-life.com/free-metaphysics-gifts.html
http://www.theusbroker.com/products/loyalty_rewards.html
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
More or Tyndale Mosaic
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
For the Order of the Doctor
Smart doctors, who save lives, in mending
of shattered bones, and brains, and hearts,
and the rescuer to many families, who teach
the nurses all their skills, and never give up,
even if they fail to learn it, and continue to guide
the way, these are the lifesavers of the ailed, and
menders of the broken-hearted, and the physical
saviors of the body! Thus saith by patients, and
their families, and those who were cured, by
trust and reliance. Think then, ye doctors, on this
imperative occupation, and honor it, and do it
faithfully, according to God's healing virtues, and
His ultimate power.
Format derived from pg. 55 of:
Horton, Ronald A. British Literature. Greenville: BJU, 2003. Print.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Audio for Chaucer Character
Movie created with Audacity found at http://audacity.sourceforge.net/.
Movie hosted by drop.io found at http://drop.io/.
Reading source:
Horton, Ronald A. British Literature. Second ed. Greenville, SC: BJU
Press, 2003. Print.
Music source:
Scotland, Olga. Serenade (Castles). Castles Under the Water. MP3.
Downloaded music from http://www.last.fm/music/Olga+Scotland
/_/Serenade+%28Castles%29.
Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Ballad
Toy Store
Roaming around the store I go,
Hoping that I will find
The toy that I always wanted,
That never left my mind!
Up and down the aisles I walk
Searching for the One;
The commercial said its here now
Oh this is so much fun!
Oh where oh where could that thing be
A shelf or on a rack?
I wish I wish I had that toy,
Maybe it's in the back!
Running into the back I go
There I see it, hooray!
Glistening in the light so bright
This is such a great day!
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Screwtape Analysis Final Draft
The Screwtape Letters Analysis
People of the world may face a whole variety of temptations throughout their lifetimes. Although some people may surpass the temptations safely, others fall for them, taking a step in the wrong conduit. This leads to the basis for the following of sinful enticements - trough periods. C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters clearly demonstrates the significance of the trough periods and how the trough periods cause others to become vulnerable to sinful behaviors. Trough periods are the spiritual or emotional lows in people’s lives, which makes them enormous contributors to the man's walk with sinful temptations. A few quotes from the book clearly support the idea on the trough periods.
The first quote is found in chapter nine, "In the first place I have always found that trough periods of the human undulation provide excellent opportunity for all sensual temptations, particularly those of sex" (Lewis 43). This quote obviously hits the thought on trough periods right on the mark! As a person descends into a depression of some sort in his life, he becomes more susceptible to the temptations of Satan. Satan will then slowly corrupt and direct him in the wrong direction, leading him on the course of indulgence. These concepts support the next quote in the book.
The second quote is also found in chapter nine, "And the troughs are the time for beginning the process" (Lewis 45). Satan and his demons use the trough periods as the time to plant the seed of transgression in a man's soul. The seed symbolizes the "beginning processes" of the demons temptations; and the trough periods act like an actual trough in a garden which nurtures the seed of transgression, eventually growing into a large plant. Furthermore, the plant of sin in the man's soul will then cause sinful thoughts and behaviors.
The third and final quote is found in chapter eight, "Now it may surprise you to learn that in His efforts to get permanent possession of a soul, He relies on the troughs even more than on the peaks..." (Lewis 38). The quote, being similar to the first quote, relies heavily on the fact that the eternity of the soul can depend greatly on the outcome of the trough periods. Through this, it means that the devil is actually searching for victims in their trough periods so that he can tempt them and claim their souls permanently.
Lewis' The Screwtape Letters lucidly exhibits how the trough periods promote sinful temptations. The trough periods can be such a dangerous portion of a person's life. Being vulnerable to evil temptations during these times, people need to ultimately call upon the Lord for His guidance.
Works Cited
Lewis, C. S. The Screwtape Letters: with Screwtape Proposes a Toast. New York: HarperOne, 1942. 38-45. Print.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Screwtape Analysis Rough Draft
The Screwtape Letters Analysis
People of the world may face a whole variety of temptations throughout their lifetimes. Although some people may surpass the temptations safely, others fall for them, taking a step in the wrong conduit. This leads to the basis for the following of sinful enticements - trough periods. C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters
clearly demonstrates the significance of the trough periods and how the trough periods cause others to become vulnerable to sinful behaviors. The trough periods are enormous contributors to the man's walk with sinful temptations. A few quotes from the book clearly support the idea on the trough periods.
The first quote is found in chapter nine, "In the first place I have always found that trough periods of the human undulation provide excellent opportunity for all sensual temptations, particularly those of sex" (Lewis 43). This quote obviously hits the thought on trough periods right on the mark! As a person descends into a depression of some sort in his life, he becomes more susceptible to the temptations of Satan. Satan will then slowly corrupt and direct him in the wrong direction, leading him on the course of indulgence. These concepts support the next quote in the book.
The second quote is also found in chapter nine, "And the troughs are the time for beginning the process"(Lewis 45). Satan and his demons use the trough periods as the time to plant the seed of transgression in a man's soul. The seed symbolizes the "beginning processes" of the demons temptations; and the trough periods act like an actual trough in a garden which nurtures the seed of transgression, eventually growing into a large plant. Furthermore, the plant of sin in the man's soul will then cause sinful thoughts and behaviors.
The third and final quote is found in chapter eight, "Now it may surprise you to learn that in His efforts to get permanent possession of a soul, He relies on the troughs even more than on the peaks..." (Lewis 38). The quote, being similar to the first quote, relies heavily on the fact that the eternity of the soul can depend greatly on the outcome of the trough periods. Through this, it means that the devil is actually searching for victims in their trough periods so that he can tempt them and claim their souls permanently.
Lewis' The Screwtape Letters lucidly exhibits how the trough periods promote sinful temptations. The trough periods can be such a dangerous portion of a person's life. Being vulnerable to evil temptations during these times, people need to ultimately call upon the Lord for His guidance.
Works Cited
Lewis, C. S. The Screwtape Letters: with Screwtape Proposes a Toast. New York: HarperOne, 1942. 38-45. Print.
People of the world may face a whole variety of temptations throughout their lifetimes. Although some people may surpass the temptations safely, others fall for them, taking a step in the wrong conduit. This leads to the basis for the following of sinful enticements - trough periods. C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters
clearly demonstrates the significance of the trough periods and how the trough periods cause others to become vulnerable to sinful behaviors. The trough periods are enormous contributors to the man's walk with sinful temptations. A few quotes from the book clearly support the idea on the trough periods.
The first quote is found in chapter nine, "In the first place I have always found that trough periods of the human undulation provide excellent opportunity for all sensual temptations, particularly those of sex" (Lewis 43). This quote obviously hits the thought on trough periods right on the mark! As a person descends into a depression of some sort in his life, he becomes more susceptible to the temptations of Satan. Satan will then slowly corrupt and direct him in the wrong direction, leading him on the course of indulgence. These concepts support the next quote in the book.
The second quote is also found in chapter nine, "And the troughs are the time for beginning the process"(Lewis 45). Satan and his demons use the trough periods as the time to plant the seed of transgression in a man's soul. The seed symbolizes the "beginning processes" of the demons temptations; and the trough periods act like an actual trough in a garden which nurtures the seed of transgression, eventually growing into a large plant. Furthermore, the plant of sin in the man's soul will then cause sinful thoughts and behaviors.
The third and final quote is found in chapter eight, "Now it may surprise you to learn that in His efforts to get permanent possession of a soul, He relies on the troughs even more than on the peaks..." (Lewis 38). The quote, being similar to the first quote, relies heavily on the fact that the eternity of the soul can depend greatly on the outcome of the trough periods. Through this, it means that the devil is actually searching for victims in their trough periods so that he can tempt them and claim their souls permanently.
Lewis' The Screwtape Letters lucidly exhibits how the trough periods promote sinful temptations. The trough periods can be such a dangerous portion of a person's life. Being vulnerable to evil temptations during these times, people need to ultimately call upon the Lord for His guidance.
Works Cited
Lewis, C. S. The Screwtape Letters: with Screwtape Proposes a Toast. New York: HarperOne, 1942. 38-45. Print.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Screwtape XXVI-XXXI
1. "Very well then, I won't have any tea at all!" (pg. 144)
This quote shows the outcome of the Generous Conflict Illusion. The General Conflict Illusion involves two people showing "unselfishness" to eachother by going with the other person's ideas. This back and forth "unselfish" behavior eventually gets to the point where one becomes bitterly irritated, causing anger to spew inside.
2. "...heads I win, tails you lose' argument." (pg. 148)
This reveals the assuarance of a loss through prayer. The devil can use this concept to pursuade people that prayers do not work. Even though the prayer comes true, Satan can fool the human mind by showing some physical causes that may have caused it to happen, making the "miracle" look less convincing.
3. "Prosperity knits a man to the World." (pg. 155)
The wealth and riches bond and seal a person to the world. Man's natural sinful behavior causes greed to form after obtaining the power of riches. The greed of people acts like a magnet, attracting the sinfullness of the world.
4. "...Despair is a greater sin than any of the sins which provoke it." (pg. 162)
Despair is like hopelessness, gloom, or depression. The actions or thoughts which triggered the despair are usually sinful or wrong, which isn't good. Although the sins which caused the depression are wrong, despair is ultimately worse than those other sins which aggravated it.
5. "...intellectual attack on his faith..." (pg. 167)
Intellectual attacks are those sneaky attacks that are well-thought out by demons. All of Wormwood's previous intellectual attacks on the victim have failed causing a new need for different types of attacks. This shows the victim's wisdom, knowledge, and strength.
6. "Pains he may still have to encounter, but they embrace those pains. They would not barter them for any earthly pleasure." (pg. 174)
Some pains of the world can be very hard to get through. As Christians, people need to embrace the pain with the help of God, instead of trading it for any earthly (sinful) pleasures. Seek God for comfort through all the pains of the world.
This quote shows the outcome of the Generous Conflict Illusion. The General Conflict Illusion involves two people showing "unselfishness" to eachother by going with the other person's ideas. This back and forth "unselfish" behavior eventually gets to the point where one becomes bitterly irritated, causing anger to spew inside.
2. "...heads I win, tails you lose' argument." (pg. 148)
This reveals the assuarance of a loss through prayer. The devil can use this concept to pursuade people that prayers do not work. Even though the prayer comes true, Satan can fool the human mind by showing some physical causes that may have caused it to happen, making the "miracle" look less convincing.
3. "Prosperity knits a man to the World." (pg. 155)
The wealth and riches bond and seal a person to the world. Man's natural sinful behavior causes greed to form after obtaining the power of riches. The greed of people acts like a magnet, attracting the sinfullness of the world.
4. "...Despair is a greater sin than any of the sins which provoke it." (pg. 162)
Despair is like hopelessness, gloom, or depression. The actions or thoughts which triggered the despair are usually sinful or wrong, which isn't good. Although the sins which caused the depression are wrong, despair is ultimately worse than those other sins which aggravated it.
5. "...intellectual attack on his faith..." (pg. 167)
Intellectual attacks are those sneaky attacks that are well-thought out by demons. All of Wormwood's previous intellectual attacks on the victim have failed causing a new need for different types of attacks. This shows the victim's wisdom, knowledge, and strength.
6. "Pains he may still have to encounter, but they embrace those pains. They would not barter them for any earthly pleasure." (pg. 174)
Some pains of the world can be very hard to get through. As Christians, people need to embrace the pain with the help of God, instead of trading it for any earthly (sinful) pleasures. Seek God for comfort through all the pains of the world.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Screwtape XVIII-XXI
1. "But in the humans the Enemy has gratuitously associated affection between the parties with sexual desire." (pg. 95)
God Almighty put into men and women's minds the feeling of affection to enhance sexual feelings between eachother. This is because God wants the humans to reproduce and populate this world. Also, God views marriage as an eternal bond with eachother.
2. "...falling in love..." (pg. 103)
The phrase "falling in love" can be both good and bad for the human mind. It can be good because it brings the couple closer together through love, which is what God wants from a couple. This phrase can be bad because the sinful nature of the human mind can sometimes lead this deep love into something sinful, for example, lust and adultery.
3. "It is the business of these great masters to produce in every age a general misdirection of what may be called sexual 'taste'." (pg. 106)
It is Satan's duty to try and corrupt men, women, and kids in their sexual thoughts. After he corrupts our thinkings, we will slowly be following the sinful path to Hell.
4. "And all the time the joke is that the word 'Mine' in its fully possessive sense cannot be uttered by a human being about anything." (pg. 114)
This quote explains how we as people claim that everything is ours, yet it is actually God who owns everything. We as Christians should stay away from this "claiming possession" because we should know that in reality, everything belongs to God.
God Almighty put into men and women's minds the feeling of affection to enhance sexual feelings between eachother. This is because God wants the humans to reproduce and populate this world. Also, God views marriage as an eternal bond with eachother.
2. "...falling in love..." (pg. 103)
The phrase "falling in love" can be both good and bad for the human mind. It can be good because it brings the couple closer together through love, which is what God wants from a couple. This phrase can be bad because the sinful nature of the human mind can sometimes lead this deep love into something sinful, for example, lust and adultery.
3. "It is the business of these great masters to produce in every age a general misdirection of what may be called sexual 'taste'." (pg. 106)
It is Satan's duty to try and corrupt men, women, and kids in their sexual thoughts. After he corrupts our thinkings, we will slowly be following the sinful path to Hell.
4. "And all the time the joke is that the word 'Mine' in its fully possessive sense cannot be uttered by a human being about anything." (pg. 114)
This quote explains how we as people claim that everything is ours, yet it is actually God who owns everything. We as Christians should stay away from this "claiming possession" because we should know that in reality, everything belongs to God.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Brainstorming for Analysis Ideas
1. God is needed in life.
2. How important it is to have good friends.
3. The joy of living.
4. How the Law of Undulation affects your soul.
5. Enticements of Satan to one's heart.
6. How fear and worry relate to eachother.
7. The need for eternal life.
8. The need to be humble.
9. The need of communication with God.
10. World views influence.
Top 3 Choices:
1. How the Law of Undulation affects your soul.
2. Enticements of Satan to one's heart.
3. The need for eternal life.
"Humans are amphibians-half spirit and half animal" (Lewis 37).
2. How important it is to have good friends.
3. The joy of living.
4. How the Law of Undulation affects your soul.
5. Enticements of Satan to one's heart.
6. How fear and worry relate to eachother.
7. The need for eternal life.
8. The need to be humble.
9. The need of communication with God.
10. World views influence.
Top 3 Choices:
1. How the Law of Undulation affects your soul.
2. Enticements of Satan to one's heart.
3. The need for eternal life.
"Humans are amphibians-half spirit and half animal" (Lewis 37).
Monday, August 23, 2010
Chapters IX-XII Questions
1. Why do our “trough periods” make us so vulnerable (Lewis, 43)? Is this applicable to you?
We become vulnerable during these "trough periods" because Satan himself targets us who are struggling in our spiritual battles. While in spiritual battles, people become confused and easily tempted. This can be applied to my life because during my "trough periods", I definitely noticed that I became easily lured into evil thoughts and actions.
2. What are your thoughts regarding “parallel lives” (Lewis, 51)? What does this mean to you?
3. What are your thoughts on music and joy after reading this chapter?
Music and joy promotes happiness and contentment which Satan does not enjoy. Now I know that "heavenly" music and joy are good for me, creating a barrier between me and the devil.
4. What is the “safest road to Hell” (Lewis, 61)? Do you agree or disagree?
The safest road to Hell is the slow and gradual one. I agree that this is the safest way for the demons to tempt because this way is very sneaky. Also, most people are ignorant and don't notice the "road" that they are slowly following, eventually leading to Hell.
5. What is the role of “nothing” (Lewis, 60) and “small sins” (Lewis, 60)? What does that mean for you?
The role of "nothing" and "small sins" are to slowly guide the Christian away from the truth. The Christians may think that these "small sins" are nothing and will just be forgiven, but we need to realize that these sins are a part of the road to Hell. This means that I need to be aware of these "nothings" and small sins" in my life, because the devil will use these to lead me the wrong way.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Chapters V-VIII Questions
1. What is Screwtape’s idea on the best way for humans to die? Why?
Screwtape wants all humans to die from those who lie and do not tell the truth. He also wants people to die from others who have been influenced by Satan himself. Therefore, the person who dies needs to have the thought of "staying alive or surviving" because of a promise by a doctor or friend. The assurance of survival gives that person a stronger belief in himself, which causes his heart to be more vulnerable to the evil.
2. How does “...malice thus becomes wholly real and the benevolence largely imaginary” (Lewis, 28)? How does this apply to your life?
When your heart attracts the wrong attention, the demons or Satan himself may cause you to have more hatred and less kindness. In my life, I sometimes feel the temptation to show malice towards others because of what my heart takes in; but when I pray and increase my connection with God, I show more benevolence to others.
3. How do you picture the devil? What does this chapter challenge you about regarding the spiritual warfare over your soul?
After reading this chapter, I picture Satan as being a very evil and sneaky predator. He finds ways to slowly guide Christians off of their paths in a furtive way. This chapter challenges me to be alert and ready in everything that I do. I need to be able to pin-point the small temptations that the devil may bring unto me, and know how to steer clear of those seductions.
4. What is the “law of Undulation” (Lewis, 37)? Give an example of this in your life.
The "law of Undulation" states that humans are in constant change in their spiritual battle. There are peaks and troughs in this change, which represents the highs and the lows (similar to economic graphs). An example of a peak in my life was when I found out the spiritual truth and dedicated myself to the Lord wholly. I attended church once or twice a week, and continued to have the desire to learn more about Him. An example of a trough in my life was when baseball season started. The busy schedule caused me to miss church several times, which made me drift away from God.
5. “Our cause is never more in danger, than when a human, no longer desiring, but intending, to do our Enemy's will, looks round upon a universe from which every trace of Him seems to have vanished, and asks why he has been forsaken, and still obeys. (Lewis 40). What are your thoughts on this?
I personally think that Satan is idiotic for trying to compete with God for the attention of people. He needs to realize that God is the CREATOR of the universe, and there is no way that he can even compare himself to Him. God created mankind to glorify and worship Him!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Chapters I-IV Questions
1. Give an example or two about situations in which you are "...attending to universal issues and withdrawing...attention from the stream of immediate sense experiences" (Lewis, 2).
A. Using the internet to research for an essay instead of going to the library to research.
B. Driving your car to a nearby park instead of riding a bike.
2. What are your thoughts on church? Is it something you “do” every week?
I try my best to go with my family to church every week because I believe that church is a great way to fellowship with other Christians. It also gives me the opportunity to learn more about God and what he does for us.
3. What are your "daily pinpricks" (Lewis, 11)?
Dropped calls on Skype or on the phone really drives me crazy!
4. Give an example or two of situations in which you have neglected the obvious (Lewis, 12).
A. Walking passed a pile of trash at school, and not even thinking about picking it up.
B. Seeing a lost seventh grader, and not helping him get to his class.
5. What does Lewis suggest when he says “...whatever their bodies do affects their souls” (Lewis, 16)?
He suggests that a person's wrong actions may lead to eternal punishment.
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