Podcasts about despair

In this episode, Jamie Wheal explores the question of “Can radical hope save us from despair in a fractured world?” He argues that most of the feel-good positivity we are sold is useless when facing real crises, from climate collapse to meaninglessness. But there is a kind of hope that survives contact with brutal reality.Get Weekly Bites of Wisdom delivered to your inbox. Every Wednesday, you'll receive a short, practical email that distills the big ideas from different episodes on topics like mental health, relationships, anxiety, and purpose – into bite-sized practices you can use right away. It's free, takes about a minute to read. You'll also receive a Weekend Podcast playlist every Friday to ensure you don't miss an episode! Join now at oneyoufeed.net/newsletter.Key Takeaways:The internal and cultural struggle between hope and despair in the context of global crises.The concept of “radical hope” as a resilient form of hope amidst harsh realities.The inadequacy of typical positivity in addressing complex real-world problems.The need for a new “rational mysticism” suitable for the 21st century.The dangers of failing to establish a stable, shared sense of meaning in society.The critique of hyper-individualistic and consumer-driven culture in relation to existential risks.The historical evolution of existential risk narratives and their implications for modern society.The importance of community and connection in fostering healing and growth.The challenges of creating secular communities that provide meaningful structure and belonging.The potential for a revived Western rational mysticism to address contemporary spiritual needs and crises.If you enjoyed this conversation with Jamie Wheal, check out these other episodes:How to Overcome Cynicism and Embrace Hope with Jamil ZakiHuman Nature and Hope with Rutger BregmanFor full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the most faithful act of evangelism isn't preaching—but sitting with someone in their grief? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. talks with theologian and returning guest Dr. Andrew Root to explore what it means to practice evangelism in an age defined by despair. Drawing from his latest book, Evangelism in the Age of Despair: Hope Beyond the Failed Promise of Happiness, Andy challenges the notion that evangelism is about strategy, persuasion, or growth—and instead reframes it as a practice of consolation. Together, Loren and Andy wrestle with the loneliness, sorrow, and disconnection of modern life. From Facebook Marketplace encounters to late-night hospital chaplaincy calls, this conversation dives deep into the spiritual significance of simply showing up and staying present with people in their suffering. They discuss: Why sorrow is "contagious"—and why that matters The mystical, communal nature of consolation How pastors and chaplains might be better theologians than academics What happens when a society loses its rituals for goodbye Why people turn to the occult when meaning is missing Whether you're a ministry leader, chaplain, or spiritually curious, this episode will help you rethink what it means to offer hope in a world hungry for presence, not platitudes.   Andrew Root is the Carrie Olson Baalson professor of youth and family ministry at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He writes and researches in areas of theology, ministry, culture and younger generations.  His recent books are Churches and the Crisis of Decline, When Church Stops Working, and The Church After Innovation. Andy has worked in congregations, parachurch ministries, and social service programs. He lives in St. Paul with his wife Kara, two children, Owen and Maisy, and their dog. When not reading, writing, or teaching, Andy spends far too much time watching TV and movies.   Mentioned Resources:

Life can be hard. We all have felt feelings of lost, desperation, and despair. In Matthew 5:3-4, Jesus teaches that spiritual emptiness and heartfelt sorrow aren’t signs of failure, but opportunities to encounter God’s Kingdom and His comfort. These verses remind us that God draws near to the broken and fills us with eternal hope. In a world that values strength and self-reliance, Jesus invites us to find blessing in our weakness and hope in our grief. Visit us online at: RenewalChurch.net

On démarre avec Fatal (album de 2025) et Despair, puis Loudblast et Death, par rapport à la date du 24 février 1989 à Vertain. Ensuite un peu de NOMED live (Evreux juin 1989), Fatal, SOB, Agathoclès, Triumph Of Death… Attention le premier tirage du bouquin est épuisé! Et David Martin (ASSHOLE, Voyage au centre de […] L'article Le Journal du Hard – Le Havre Thrash Metal Part. 2 est apparu en premier sur Radio Campus Tours - 99.5 FM.

The Dungeon of Despair: Toshia & Sarah must escape a dungeon & its denizens.In 13 parts, By BradentonLarry - Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.Sarah reeled from the aftershocks of her intense orgasms, stunned by how much cum had been pumped into her and onto her. As the tentacle slipped away from her mouth it spilled quite a lot of the sweet juice all over her tits. Grinning to herself, Sarah ran her hands over her body, rubbing the cum into her skin and pinching her nipples. She thought of Toshia and hoped she was having as much fun. She opened her eyes to see what her lover was up to.Smiling blissfully and covered in shiny cum, Toshia was being drawn toward a dark thing, a black ball with a single great eye and a maw lined with jagged teeth. The thing extended a long prehensile tongue, which Toshia grasped and drew to her mouth. Apparently unaware of the danger, Toshia was pulled ever closer to those deadly teeth.Finally, Sarah found her voice, yelling, "Toshia! No!"Toshia ignored her, and proceeded to suck on the slender tip of that tongue as if it were a cock or a nipple.Sarah struggled against the tentacle wrapped around her waist, paying no attention to the fact that more tentacles were snaking up between her legs. When she saw that the thing wasn't going to release her, Sarah splashed water at Toshia and the thing that held them. She shouted again, "Wake up, Toshia!"Then, just as it seemed the creature was about to devour her love, Sarah noticed some splashing on the other side of the monster. There was a flash of steel in the wan light of the cavern, and the black orb was cut in two, diagonally, right through that hideous eye. Toshia fell into the water and Sarah felt the tentacles slip away and the big one around her waist slacken.Sarah saw a big man standing there in full, metal armor, and with a huge sword black with tentacle-monster blood, then noticed another armored man a bit further back, but her attention was drawn to Toshia who was spluttering and splashing next to the thing's body. Shoving her way out of the grasp of the dead limb around her waist, Sarah crossed to Toshia and hugged her. She held her tightly and asked, "Are you okay, babe?"Toshia was laughing. "Yes," she said. "You are seriously covered in cum, baby."Relieved, Sarah released Toshia."Are you ladies uninjured?" asked a gruff voice. Turning, they saw that the man with the sword was not exactly human. He was built like a tall bodybuilder but had greenish skin, a slightly jutting under-bite that allowed two pronounced lower canines to protrude, a broad nose, prominent brow, thick, short-cut, black hair, several quite noticeable scars, and large pointed ears."Yes," Toshia answered for them. "I think we're fine.""That thing was about to eat you," Sarah finally said. "This man saved you."Toshia frowned, "What? We were just having fun.""You were charmed, no doubt," said a lilting feminine voice. A slender, dark-haired woman waded through the water toward them. She had a bow in her hands, and she also had pointed ears, though hers were quite different from the man's. Sarah identified her as an elf immediately, an undeniably beautiful elf, who said, "The lurkers ensorcel their prey, have their way with them, and devour them, their victims believing they're having a wonderful time all the while.""Lucky you came along when you did, then," Toshia said. She was looking sadly at the blood and remains that were already washing away toward the nearest runoff point."Yes, thank you," Sarah said, much more enthusiastically.The second man, a tall human wearing proper chainmail and carrying a sword and shield not much different from Sarah's, had come up and stood quietly, though he seemed to be admiring Toshia and Sarah's naked bodies."Everything okay out there?" called a woman's voice from the other side of the pond, where Sarah could see at least three more figures."Yes," shouted the big greenish guy. "We'll be right back."The pretty woman said, "I'm Rayna, this is Gul, and the quiet one is Tohl. Perhaps you would like to clean up and join us and the rest of our party. We were just about to make camp."After she and Toshia shared a glance, Sarah said, "Yes, that would be nice. Thank you. I'm Sarah, and this is Toshia."Rayna smiled and nodded. The heavily armored guy, Gul, said, "Watch the middle; it gets deep."Moving away from what was left of the "lurker," Sarah and Toshia quickly but thoroughly washed themselves, though Sarah expected lurker cum would be leaking out of their asses for days. They hurried over to collect their gear and carried it all around the side of the pond until they came to the lichen covered ledge the others had chosen for their camp.In addition to the three they'd already met, there was a blonde woman with an odd-looking guitar, wearing a short skirt and a very flattering bodice, a redhead wearing what looked like a dominatrix's suit of shiny black leather, which happened to show off some lovely cleavage, a male elf wearing dark robes, and a man no more than half Sarah's height who was pacing back and forth in what Sarah thought of as more traditional leather armor. Every one of them, except the elf in the robes, was armed. The sexy redhead was saying, "Isn't this awfully close to the water?""The lurkers are solitary hunters and would have scared off or eaten any other predators," replied Rayna."How do you know this stuff?" asked the short one.Rayna sighed, "You might find it helpful to read up on the lore of the region now and then, Shift."Just then, they noticed Toshia and Sarah. Both Gul and Tohl promptly moved to help them up out of the water."Sarah, Toshia, welcome," Rayna smiled. "This is Vespula, Quislin, Zasterfel, and Shift," she said as she indicated the blonde woman, the redhead, the robed youth, and the short guy, respectively."Please, call me Zas," said the robed one with a warm smile.Sarah smiled and nodded her head. She was amused by the fact that she and Toshia were standing there, dripping wet and completely naked, in front of a bunch of fully clothed characters out of a fantasy movie as if it were completely normal. In fact, nobody seemed to think the situation odd."Make yourselves comfortable," Vespula said with an appreciative smile."Thank you," Toshia said as she put her armor and weapons on the soft mat of lichen and sat cross-legged. She gave a smile to the pretty blonde, who passed her a pair of apples from a backpack."Yes, thank you," Sarah added as she also took a seat, and an apple from Toshia. "Especially you, Gul. You got there just in time. You saved our lives.""It was nothing." Gul waved his hand as if to brush the praise aside."At least mine," Toshia said. "Thank you.""Well, we have something of a tradition," the redhead smiled mischievously. Sarah could now see that she too had elven features. "Whenever one of us saves another's life, ""There's no need for that," Gul grumbled. Sarah was sure the big green guy was blushing.After shooting Sarah a wry smile, Toshia said, "Oh, I'm pretty sure we'd be happy to honor your tradition."Knowing they were in Eros, Sarah thought, and was sure Toshia agreed, it was a safe bet the tradition Quislin had in mind was sexual in nature. So, it wasn't a surprise when, after a bit of prodding from his companions, Gul stood and began to take off his armor. Quislin and Vespula got up and helped him, but surprisingly refrained from engaging in any kind of foreplay with the big fellow.Soon, Gul was standing in front of them, a model of buff not-quite-human masculinity. His chest was broad and muscular. In fact, most of his body was muscular. There were also quite a lot of scars, which somehow only added to his appeal. Between his legs was a generous cock, not the longest Sarah had seen in Eros but perhaps the thickest. The unusual color of Gul's skin made him seem a bit more exotic."There you go girls," Vespula said with a twinkle in her eye. "Show him your gratitude."Toshia led the way, crawling on all fours the short distance until she was kneeling in front of Gul. Sarah followed close behind. Though Gul was quite a bit taller than them, they were still at a good level to lean in and begin kissing and running their hands over Gul's generous endowment. This wasn't the first cock they'd shared like this, that had been Don's, but it was the biggest. Sarah enjoyed watching Toshia sucking on the fat head, and then kissing her, tasting his precum in her mouth. She liked the way his cock got hard between the two of them, their lips, tongues, and hands moving on it.Sarah took Gul's thick shaft in hand and sucked the big head into her mouth, tongue playing over its slit. Her hands moved up and down on his spit-covered organ as Toshia bent under to kiss and fondle his heavy balls. She couldn't deepthroat him but wondered if Toshia wanted to try. Still, she bobbed her head on him a bit, her hands squeezing tightly. Sarah looked up at him and saw Gul watching her intently. This made her happy.Then Sarah let the big cockhead pop out of her mouth and rubbed it against her face. Toshia came up for air, kissing and licking her way up to Sarah, where she joined her partner in rubbing her face on the darker green glans.Toshia smiled up at Gul and said, "Why don't you lie down so we can really show you how grateful we are?"While the big guy hurried to comply, Sarah looked around to see that the others were watching them, but not just watching, of course. Vespula had pulled her blouse down to free a pair of lovely breasts, one of which she was squeezing while her other hand was busy under her skirt. Quislin, whose outfit now seemed to be crotchless, had a cock in either hand, Tohl's in the right and Zas's surprisingly large one in the left, while the men on either side of her each had a hand on her crotch, one apparently fingering her cunt and the other stroking her clit. Sarah guessed they had done this before. Rayna was watching them intently as Shift (the only one who wasn't watching her, Toshia, and Gul) was on his hands and knees between her legs, licking her. The expression on the pretty elf's face told Sarah the little guy knew what he was doing.By the time Sarah tore her eyes off the others, Toshia was leaning over Gul making out with him, an experience Sarah would soon find out was quite interesting and not at all unpleasant. Meanwhile his hard, thick cock was left unattended. With a smile, Sarah crawled over, ran her tongue up the length of that impressive organ, and straddled Gul's waist. Reaching under herself, she raised the heavy cock and pushed its flared head up into her very ready cunt."God! That feels good!" Sarah breathed. She slowly sank down on the thick shaft, feeling her cunt opening, filled wonderfully by Gul's sex. Then his head was against her cervix, and she began to work up and down on that glorious cock. She braced her hands on his strong abs as she adjusted to his girth and the intense feeling of fucking him. Soon, though, she was riding him more vigorously, hands squeezing her own tits tightly as she rode that column of flesh harder and faster.Meanwhile, Toshia had turned to watch Sarah, an expression of combined lust and love on her face. Then Gul said something, Toshia smiled at him, and said, "Okay!" In another moment, Toshia was straddling his face as he began licking at her cunt and clit with what looked like a long, strong tongue. Sarah found herself watching those two sharp canines as they brushed against Toshia's smooth thighs.Then Toshia was reaching out to pull Sarah toward her. Sarah propped herself up on Gul's broad pecs, still riding his cock, as Toshia drew her in for a deep passionate kiss. That's when the first of her orgasms hit Sarah. She shook and trembled, moaning into Toshia's mouth, as her body reeled with pleasure.When she pulled back a bit, Sarah said, "His cock is so good!"Toshia grinned at her and said, "I'm looking forward to it. Can you keep it warm for me for a bit, though? I don't want to give up his tongue just yet.""Happily," Sarah said as she continued to grind herself on Gul, working his cock in and out of her grasping cunt. She hoped to come again on him, but Toshia beat her to it, crying out and shuddering as she ground down on Gul's apparently talented mouth.After Toshia came down and caught her breath, Sarah gave up her place so Toshia could take that thick cock up into her slender body. Sarah was lying next to Gul, stroking his powerful chest, and alternating between making out with him and watching Toshia riding up and down on his thick shaft, one hand between her legs playing with her clit. For himself, Gul had taken hold of Toshia's waist in both strong hands, helping the relatively tiny woman fuck him. Sarah found the sight of her lover pushing up and then falling back on Gul's fat cock, slick with both of their juices, wonderfully erotic.Toshia was grunting and moaning, nearing a second orgasm, when Sarah bit Gul's ear and said, "Come for us, baby. Fill Toshia with your cum."Gul responded with a nod and a groan, and then he was arching his back, his whole, muscular body clenching and shaking. Toshia cried out, "Yes! Fuck yes!" as she came again, writhing down on Gul's spasming cock. Pearly cum leaked out of her around that wonderful organ.Toshia sagged forward on Gul's prone body, with a bit of a giggle, and said, "Thank you.""Yes," Sarah grinned, kissing his cheek. "Thank you."Gul gave a deep chuckle and said, "You're quite welcome, miladies." After the delightful threesome with Gul, the rest of his companions joined in, and it became a chaotic nine-person orgy. Toshia couldn't keep track of all the particulars, but certain moments stood out: lovely Rayna licking Gul's cum out of her cunt while the little Shift took the elf from behind; watching Sarah getting double-teamed by Zas and Tohl while sucking on Quislin's tits; being ganged up on by Vespula, Rayna, and Quislin, who used their mouths, fingers, and at least one whole hand, to bring her to a series of soul shattering orgasms; and, in particular, mounting tall Tohl, taking him into her cunt, while Gul pushed that fat monster of his deep into her ass and Shift stood in front of her feeding her his comparatively small, but still respectable, cock.It was after that last wonderful session, as Toshia lay there momentarily by herself, playing with the cum oozing out of her well-fucked cunt, that it occurred to her that she wasn't tired. After her creature gangbang, climbing all those stairs, the incident with the "lurker," and this beautiful, but quite long, orgy, she should be exhausted, but she wasn't. Not at all! In fact, she was lustfully eyeing Quislin, who had shed her shiny black "armor" and was lying on her side on the soft lichen-covered ground as Zas fucked her ass from behind. Her plan was to crawl over there and lick the redhead's cunt and maybe get some of Zas's cum. But, again, Toshia asked herself, Shouldn't I be tired?Then she thought about the guys. She wasn't surprised by the duration of their erections; this was business as usual in Eros. But they had also come many times. Not even Don, who had devoted himself to mastering such things, normally came more than three times in an orgy, and more than three was quite rare. Mostly he had been able to put off his orgasms and increase the volume of cum. These guys had come more than four times each, with consistently large loads. Just then, in fact, Gul was stroking his thick cock over Vespula, covering her lovely tits with yet another slippery flood of cum, and that was at least his fifth such orgasm.Quislin raised a leg, slipping her hand down to push two fingers into her cunt, palm pressed against her clit. The temptation to get over there and get busy with that sexy woman was palpable, but something was wrong.Across the way, Sarah had Shift between her legs, fucking her vigorously. Though the size differential between them was amusing, the loud noises Sarah was making clearly indicated she was having a good time. But something was wrong.Toshia shook her head and tried to concentrate. She closed her eyes, trying to shove aside her raging horniness, and opened them again. Sarah was there, moaning in pleasure, but the others were gone. Toshia tried again, closing her eyes, concentrating, then opening them."What the fuck?!" she gasped.She and Sarah were indeed in a cavern almost filled with a pond, but it and the cavern were much smaller. There were a few waterfalls raining down on little platforms that seemed to climb up to the possibility of passages leading away. There didn't seem to be any lichen-covered pleasure platforms, and there certainly was no party of adventurers having an orgy.However, there was a lurker, still very much intact. It was against the edge of the pond, its big eye closed and what seemed to be a happy smile on its face.Sarah was on the other side of the pond, up to her tits in the water, murmuring happily to herself, apparently dreaming. Toshia was surprised that both she and Sarah were still wearing their ersatz armor, and that her short sword and dagger were still at her side.Toshia finally realized that the lurker still had several of its tentacles up inside her cunt and ass. Though none of them were actively fucking her, they still slowly pulsed and sent quiet waves of pleasure to the base of her spine. Gingerly, avoiding any sudden moves, Toshia reached down between her legs and slowly drew the tentacles out of her. She shuddered a bit as the sensations left her. She was rather shocked at how long one of the tentacles was that had gone up her ass.Then, moving very slowly, hardly raising even a ripple in the water, she crossed to Sarah and gently drew the tentacles out of her lover. Sarah whimpered a little in disappointment. Toshia kissed her and whispered, "Shush, baby, but wake up."Sarah's eyelids fluttered a bit, almost opening, but then closed again. So, Toshia risked jostling her a bit. When that didn't work, Toshia leaned over, covered Sarah's mouth with a kiss and gave one of her nipples a rough twist. That did the trick. Sarah's eyes flew open, and her body stiffened.Toshia drew back, gave her lover a smile and whispered as quietly as she could, "We have to get out of here."Sarah looked around in confusion but then nodded her understanding. Toshia slowly climbed out of the pool, and then turned to help Sarah do the same. Moving as stealthily as they could, they climbed half a dozen levels to the furthest of the waterfalls, where they quickly did their best to wash themselves, without taking off their armor."Fuck! My shield!" Sarah gasped. She had apparently lost it in the lurker's pool.Feeling rejuvenated by the heavy, cleansing shower and surprisingly well-rested, Toshia offered a wry smile and asked, "Want to go back and get it?"Sarah scowled back at the still slumbering lurker and said, "No, I guess not."Once they made their way out of that cavern and back into a network of tunnels, squelching in their boots as they went, they were able to talk about what had happened."So, it was all a dream?" Sarah asked."Something like that," Toshia shrugged. "Probably more like we were charmed, like Rayna said.""But her saying that was a dream too. Wait, you had the same dream I did?"This led to a quiet com

This is the third look into the character of the Apostle Paul which is revealed in his second letter to the Corinthians.

Today, seek the Lord with assurance; seek him with all your heart. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

To Infinity, and beyond!In 13 parts, By BradentonLarry - Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.With her heart thumping in her chest, anxious about what was transpiring between the two people she loved most (well, possibly excepting her mother), Toshia hurried down the hall, followed by Evelyn, who led Mick by the cock, literally, for she hadn't let go of his hard cock. She came to the doorway, which had been left wide open, to see Don kneeling on the floor at the edge of the bed and Sarah lying sprawled on the bed, one hand on Don's head between her legs, and her legs wrapped around his upper body. Her beautiful tits were heaving as she arched her back with what looked like an intense orgasm. Smiling happily, Toshia hurried into the room and climbed onto the bed.As she leaned over Sarah's face, Toshia was delighted to see her beloved smiling up at her. Then Sarah was pulling her down for a long, loving kiss. When she could, Toshia asked, "He's good at that, isn't he?""Uh, yes!" Sarah murmured."Do you want him to fuck you now?""God yes," Sarah breathed. "Please!"Toshia quickly kissed her again and then looked down to Don, who was already standing up between Sarah's legs, rubbing the head of his cock between her lips and over her clit. With a grin, Toshia said, "Fuck her good, Professor.""Can we all join in?" Evelyn asked from the doorway. She didn't wait for an answer before dragging Mick into the room and to the bed.Toshia went back to making out with Sarah, who moaned into her girlfriend's mouth as Don worked his cock in and out of her. Toshia's hand grasped one of Sarah's soft breasts as it swayed, and gave it a loving squeeze, before pinching and twisting it in the way Toshia knew she loved. Sarah rewarded her with a happy whimper and reached up to hold Toshia's head to her.Toshia thought Evelyn would get busy with Mick while Don and she were busy with Sarah, so she was surprised when she felt Evelyn's hands prompting her to get up on her knees, and then the unmistakable feeling of a fat cockhead teasing her cunt from behind. Toshia broke her kiss to look over her shoulder, where she saw Evelyn grinning at her and then giving her a wink.Looking back down to Sarah, Toshia said, "I'm about to be fucked, too, baby. Is that okay?""Yes," Sarah groaned. "Is this really happening?""Yes, it is," Toshia smiled. Then she closed her eyes and groaned a bit as Mick pushed his long cock slowly into her. "God, that feels so good!" she exclaimed, and then said to Sarah, "Is Don fucking you hard enough, baby?"Sarah smiled and said, "Not quite.""Fuck her harder, Don, damn!" Toshia grinned at Don. Then she called over her shoulder, "You too, Mick, fuck me like you, oh, yes, like that!" For a moment, Toshia just concentrated on twisting Sarah's nipple and shoving back onto Mick who was fucking her quite vigorously, but then, on Toshia's left, the far side of the bed, Evelyn was crawling up on the bed, followed by an east-Asian-looking guy."Where did you find him?" Toshia laughed."At the cock shop, obviously," Evelyn laughed, as she lay back and spread her legs to welcome this new guy to the party."This has gotten completely out of hand," Toshia murmured with a smile as she maneuvered to the right a bit, so she could replace her fingers on Sarah's nipple with her mouth. As soon as she was sucking hard on her girlfriend's tit, she reached down between Sarah and Don to stroke Sarah's clit. All the while, Mick kept fucking in and out of her, his balls slapping Toshia's clit.It didn't take much of this before Sarah, was writhing on the bed, moaning, "God, yes! Yes!"When she caught her breath, Sarah rolled off the bed and leaned over the foot of it so she could catch Toshia's head in her hands and kiss her. She said, "You look good like that.""Do I?" Toshia grinned back at her, shoving back on Mick's cock a bit harder."Hell yes!" Sarah grinned. Then Don was behind her, pushing himself back into her cunt. "Uh, yes, fuck me some more," Sarah said."You're so beautiful like this," Toshia said with a kiss. "Do you like getting fucked by Don?""God yes!" Sarah groaned. "I take it you like it too," she smirked a bit."I do," Toshia nodded. "Is that okay?""Yes, as long as I can have some too.""While we're here you can have anything and anyone you want," Toshia grinned as she reached back to start playing with her own clit, feeling Mick's cock as it slid in and out of her and his heavy balls bumping into her."Promise?" Sarah said as she pushed back on Don, slipping her own hand underneath herself to play as Toshia was."Uh huh, baby," Toshia nodded. "I did so much here. I didn't know how to tell you.""Uh, I want to hear all about it," Sarah murmured, "but right now, let's just, fuck, enjoy this, I'm going to come again, ""Me too, baby," Toshia moaned. Then she looked over Sarah's head and said, "Fill her with your cum, lover."Don nodded his understanding and promptly began to shove harder and faster into Sarah, which prompted a long happy groan from Sarah.Toshia looked over her left shoulder and said, "You too, Mick, give me your cum."As Mick immediately began fucking her even harder, with short staccato strokes, his cockhead hitting her cervix, Toshia watched Evelyn as she wrapped her legs around the man she'd found and urged him deeper into her. Without knowing the man's name Toshia still urged him, "Fuck her hard, dude. Pump that cunt full of cum!""Hell, yeah!" Evelyn grinned. "You heard the lady!"Then, for several long moments there was nothing but grunting and moaning, and the sound of bodies slapping together furiously.Mick was the first to cross the finish line, his cock swelling inside Toshia and then spilling a flood of hot cum in her cunt and womb. Feeling his cum running out over her fingers, Toshia shoved back on him and groaned as her orgasm erupted and spread like wildfire through her body. She was shuddering and moaning when she heard Sarah saying, "Oh my god, I'm gonna, I'm, I'm coming again!"Toshia watched her girlfriend's face twist up in ecstasy as her body contracted around the cock that chose that moment to pull Don along with it into orgasm, his head falling back as he seemed to have a very long, intense orgasm.Evelyn beat her man to her orgasm, and Toshia watched as the redhead seemed to clench every muscle in her body and pull the man fucking her tighter into her embrace. Unsurprisingly, he couldn't resist this and groaned as he shoved into her as he came."Fuck!" Sarah breathed. "Is it like this all the time here?""Pretty much," Toshia laughed. "Come up here, baby so I can clean you up some.""Ah, okay," Sarah said with apparent confusion. She didn't mind, though when Toshia had her lie on her back and spread her legs so Toshia could lick and suck Don's cum from her. Toshia found herself once again loving the taste of Don's cum, particularly now that it was mixed with the flavor of her Sarah.By the time, Evelyn had disentangled herself from the guy who now identified himself, also with a British accent, as Vince, and crawled over to kiss Sarah, Sarah was already rocking her hips, encouraging Toshia to lick her more thoroughly. Then Evelyn was moving up to straddle Sarah's face, lowering her cummy cunt to Sarah's mouth, obliging Vince to move aside.From between Sarah's legs, licking at her clit and now pushing several fingers up into her cunt, Toshia watched her girlfriend hesitate, then slowly begin licking at Evelyn's cunt. With a low murmur of approval, Sarah reached up and grabbed Evelyn's tight ass, which Toshia had to admit was just perfect.For several minutes, the guys were content to sit back and watch, but, naturally enough, Don was the first man to get back into the action. First, he moved to the foot of the bed to give Evelyn a kiss, but then he moved up to Toshia, who was still lying on her belly with her face between Sarah's thighs. Toshia felt him kiss the top of her head, and then his hand began caressing and squeezing her ass.Without giving it a second thought, Toshia responded willingly to his gentle but firm physical prompt to lift herself up on her knees enough that he could push the fat head of his cock, still slippery with his cum and Sarah's wetness, against her tight little rosebud. With a happy sigh breathed into Sarah's cunt, Toshia relaxed and felt Don's cock pushing slowly into her ass. She wanted to push back on him and encourage him to do as Daphne told him and to fuck her hard, but she was determined to focus on Sarah first.The other guys then returned to the party. Vince lowered his mouth to Sarah's breast and began sucking on her nipples, as his hands also moved in to squeeze her tits. Mick got up at the end of the bed in front of Evelyn and proceeded to make out with her while she promptly went back to stroking his long cock. Toshia was sure that if there had been enough room in that direction, Evelyn would have bent down to suck that cock. Toshia was looking forward to getting her mouth on that particular cock, herself.Then, Sarah was coming again, twisting and writhing on the bed. Toshia sucked on her clit as she came, her fingers still pumping in and out of her cunt as it clamped down on them.Sarah's orgasm prompted a bit of reorganization, and Toshia took the opportunity to reach back to stroke her clit, and then to push a couple of fingers up into herself. Using her fingers to fuck her cunt, she pushed back on Don to encourage him to fuck her ass harder.She looked up momentarily to see Sarah bent over sucking Vince's cock, and past her Evelyn was giving Mick's the same treatment, though quite a bit more exuberantly. Thinking of how well things were going, and how good it felt to have Don fucking her again, Toshia surrendered to a deep moan of satisfaction.This drew Sarah's attention, and she looked up at Toshia with a happy smile. Then Sarah frowned a little as she took a more careful look at what Toshia and Don were doing."Baby, is he fucking your ass?"" Uh-hum, he certainly is," Toshia grinned almost deliriously."Damn! I didn't know you liked that.""Neither did I until, well, a week ago, I guess," Toshia murmured, a bit distractedly. "Don took my cherry.""Oh? That's hot," Sarah decided."That's nothing," Evelyn said from the end of the bed, where she had her hand wrapped tightly around the base of Mick's cock. Shoving back on Don's cock and grinding her palm against her clit, Toshia idly wondered where in the world Evelyn was going with this.Evelyn's destination soon became clear, though as she started directing the action on the bed. She had Vince lie down on his back, and then got Toshia to straddle him with his cock slipping up into her very ready cunt. Toshia smiled down at Vince and rocked her hips, rubbing her clit against his body and enjoying the feeling of his cock inside her."Now, my dear," Evelyn asked, "which of these fine cocks do you want in your ass?"Toshia saw Sarah had taken a seat in an armchair, which Toshia hadn't even noticed before now, and was watching intently, her hand down between her legs; then she looked at the two men Evelyn was offering her. If she was going to show Sarah herself at her sluttiest, she might as well go for broke. She licked her lips and said, "Can't I have both?"Evelyn grinned broadly and said, "That's the right answer! Now, how should we do this, ?"Sarah watched raptly as Evelyn quickly deepthroated Don's cock, getting it nice and wet with her saliva, and then told him to get back to fucking Toshia's ass.Toshia groaned happily as she felt Don filling her again. She moved between the two men, bracing her hands on Vince's chest. With a lusty smile for Sarah, Toshia said, "God, that feels so good!"Evelyn was urging Mick over to kneel in front of Toshia. Without waiting for instructions, Toshia leaned forward and took that beautiful long cock into her mouth and then down her throat. Breathing through her nose, Toshia gave herself a moment to simply enjoy being so completely filled.Then, Mick was drawing back and moving back around behind Don, who then drew almost all the way out of Toshia. With a deep breath, Toshia tried to relax in spite of the excitement of the moment. She breathed out slowly as she felt both Don and Mick pushing slowly into her, their heads stretching her tight sphincter. When they were through, Toshia gasped and sighed. Then they pushed deeper and deeper. It felt like they would never stop opening her up and filling her, but then they were drawing back, still very slowly, until they were almost all the way out. As one, the two cocks began pushing back into her again, slowly, deliberately, and agonizingly.Toshia groaned deliriously, her hands going from Vince's chest to clutch at the bedsheets over his head. She looked at Sarah who was looking back at her in amazement. Feeling a surge of pride to combine with her horniness, Toshia heard herself saying, "Yes, boys, fuck me! Fuck my ass!"Her first orgasm hit her like a truck just then, her body clenching and shuddering between Vince and Don, her eyes squeezed closed as she whimpered with intense pleasure. When she was able to open them again, Toshia saw that Sarah was still watching her and the boys, as if she couldn't take her eyes off them, but Evelyn was now kneeling on the floor between Sarah's legs, apparently licking and sucking at Sarah's sex.With a smile for Sarah, Toshia found herself pushing back on the three cocks, and repeated, "Fuck me, boys, fuck me!"Vince was holding her hips tightly, keeping her down on his cock as he shoved up into her, the base of his cock rubbing tightly against her clit. Don's hands had slipped around her to squeeze her small tits, basically using them to hold on to. She didn't know what Mick was doing except that he and Don were managing to fuck in and out of her ass in remarkable unison. Toshia simply held on and enjoyed the ride, coming again and again, until the cocks began to fill her with cum. She didn't know if it was Don or Mick, but someone pumped a lot of hot cum deep into her bowels. The other one followed quickly after, and Toshia felt a flood of warm fluid spilling out of her and down over Vince's cock and balls.First Mick, then Don, drew out of her ass, which just spilled more cum out of her. Across the room, Sarah was coming yet again, this time with Evelyn licking her. Toshia looked down at Vince with what must have been a crazed smile and then kissed him deeply. She kept kissing him passionately as she began to ride his cock wildly, squeezing her cunt around him as tightly as she could. She again had her hands on his chest, pushing up so she could make him come inside her. As he shoved up into her, his cock swelling and pumping what felt like a geyser of cum up inside her, Toshia came again, a shaking, shuddering, moaning pillar of ecstasy on top of the prone man."My god!" she heard Sarah saying as she slumped off Vince's body. She had a deliriously happy smile on her tear-streaked face. She could see Evelyn still kneeling on the floor, this time sucking on Don's cock, and Sarah was leaning over in her chair to do the same to Mick's. Toshia was sure it looked like Sarah was deepthroating that lovely long cock.Toshia vaguely thought that it would only polite for her to clean up Vince as the others were being cleaned, but she simply didn't have the energy. But then she felt Vince nudging her over onto her back and encouraging her to spread her legs. She sighed happily when she felt his lips and tongue moving over her, licking up all the cum he could find. When he moved on to her ass, cleaning her just as thoroughly there, she smiled and thought once again that Eros was wonderful.By the time Vince had finished his delightful ministrations, Toshia was ready to at least see what the others were up to. Sarah was enthusiastically bobbing up and down on Don's cock as he sat in the chair. He was holding her ass in his hands and her tits were bouncing in front of his face. Evelyn at the end of the bed again but was on her hands and knees as Mick fucked her from behind. Smiling happily, Toshia pushed Vince onto his back and returned the favor of cleaning his cock and balls thoroughly.When he was ready, all nice and hard again, Toshia sent him over to switch places with Mick, who promptly moved around in front of Evelyn to begin fucking her very talented mouth and throat. Toshia lounged on the bed, propped up on her elbow, watching the two shows, in no hurry to get back into the action.After both Evelyn and Sarah came again, things cooled down, and Don suggested they head for the showers. With Mick and Vince trailing along, Evelyn led the way while Don explained, "Basically, you've got two options. You can stay here and go back normally, or by way of the Grotto, which Toshia will explain, or we can take you home. However, you should know that if we take you back its one-way. This was a special deal and I'm pretty sure we won't be able to do it again."Toshia knew that she would have to talk this over with Sarah, and also knew that Don was certainly aware of that, but she wanted to ask first, "Can we take time to decide?""Of course, as long as you like," Don smiled."Wait! Why can't we go back and forth? Why can't we have the best of both worlds?" Sarah wanted to know."You can, but only if you get rings like this," Don said with a smile, holding up his hand to illustrate."But it's not going to be easy," Evelyn said over her shoulder."But we can we go after a pair of those rings?" Toshia emphasized.Don grinned. "I can't see why you couldn't, but you would be on your own for that.""Except," Evelyn said, stopping and turning to speak directly to Toshia and Sarah, "I've been thinking about this, and if you do it you should try to get them to let you do it as a couple.""Wait, what?" Don asked, obviously blindsided by this idea."Yeah," Evelyn smiled at him. "They want you to just do it as a solo thing, clearly, but both times we asked for an exception they said okay. You might have to do extra stuff, or harder tasks, but I'll bet they let you."Don frowned, then nodded and said, "That makes sense.""Of course, it does," Evelyn said with mock indignation.

We're halfway through 2025! This episode is a raw look at what's working, what's not, and the experiments we're doubling down on. From running premium events at zero profit to building lean teams with talent from Latin America, we share the trade-offs and results behind every decision. Dan and Ian open the books on DC BLACK and DC Accelerator, plus they uncover how Remote First Recruiting quietly had one of its best quarters yet. LINKS: Dan's Four Bricks presentation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZooQo760Ik&ab_channel=TropicalMBA) Meet the world's most generous global entrepreneurs inside Dynamite Circle (https://dynamitecircle.com/) Connect with 7+ figure founders inside DC BLACK (https://dynamitecircle.com/dc-black) Remote First Recruiting: Find your next best remote hire in 21 days (https://remotefirstrecruiting.com/) CHAPTERS: (00:00:42) Can You Break a Plateau Without Spending $200K? (00:01:45) Why Your Next Growth Phase Starts With You (00:06:45) What Happened When Our CFO Left (00:11:27) Why We Finally Launched a Premium Tier (00:16:01) The Real Results of Our $5K Coaching Program (00:22:03) Is Our Recruiting Arm About To Have Its Best Quarter Yet? (00:28:01) We're Going to Bangkok This October CONNECT: Dan@tropicalmba.com Ian@tropicalmba.com Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella. PLAYLIST: “It's easier to 10X than to 2X” + 8 Lessons from CEO Bootcamp (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/easier-10x-than-2x) Building ‘Brick by Brick': Goals, Plans, Scorecards, Cadence (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/brick-by-brick) 90-Day Growth Plan in 10 Questions (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/90-day-growth) The Wheel of Despair and the Paradox of Growth (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/wheel-despair-paradox-growth)

Even the strongest believers can feel crushed under the weight of life, wondering if it's even worth going on. In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Cast the Word, Pastor Andrew explores what the Bible says about despair, hopelessness, and the enemy's lies — and how God responds to those moments with grace, hope, and healing. Through the stories of Elijah, Job, Jonah, and others, you'll see how God meets us in our darkest valleys and reminds us that our story isn't over. If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of giving up, this episode offers biblical truth, encouragement, and a reminder that God's will is always life, not destruction. You matter. You're not alone. And there is still hope.

When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken. Psalm 34:17-20Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fr. Eric reflects on the Lord's instructions to His disciples before they are sent forth on mission (Lk 10:1-20) in speaking about how we might guard our hearts against discouragement while maintaining an apostolic fervour for the mission. This is a live recording of a homily that Fr. Eric gave on July 6, 2025 at St. James in Colgan, Ontario. Watch Catholic Latte on YouTube and Facebook. An audio version of the podcast is available also on Spotify, iTunes and Podbean.

Every man is different. Some men are intense and need to learn how to pull back on the reigns. Others are passive and need to learn how to crack the whip. My guest today, former Navy SEAL and French Foreign Legionnaire is a man who more closely resonates with the former but understands the implications of both. Today, Taylor and I talk about how and why men self-sabotage themselves, the importance of internal vs. external validation, how a “Battle Rhythm” helps a man maximize his performance, why success doesn't “flash,” it “glows,” and why every man is searching for inner peace and clarity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:18 - Welcoming Taylor Cavanaugh 00:55 - Taylor's Early Struggles and Navy SEAL Aspiration 03:55 - Roots of Self-Sabotage 06:04 - Strengths as Weaknesses in Military Life 09:10 - Backsliding Despite Purpose 11:39 - Transition to Civilian Life 14:45 - Building Internal Discipline 16:25 - Addressing Different Personalities 20:40 - Importance of Battle Rhythm 23:12 - Morning Routine for Clarity 25:36 - Turning Point from Despair 29:36 - Joining the French Foreign Legion 31:05 - SEAL Experience in the Legion 34:16 - Lessons in Simplicity and Patience 37:26 - Significance of a New Identity 40:35 - Starting Coaching from the Legion 43:48 - Connecting with Taylor's Programs 44:50 - Closing Remarks Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready

Psalm 142 (NKJV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss the encouragement David took from God's relationship with him. Even when his spirit was faint within him, he trusted God knew his way and the way he should go.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=22028The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

In this week's conversation on FrontStage BackStage, host Jason Daye is joined by Andy Root. Andy is a Professor of Youth and Family Ministries at Luther Seminary. He is the host of the thought-provoking podcast When Church Stops Working, and just the title of that podcast probably gets your mind working. As pastors and ministry leaders, we really encourage you to check that podcast out. Andy has written a number of books, including his latest, entitled Evangelism in an Age of Despair.Dig deeper into this conversation: Find the free Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide, all resource links, and more, at http://PastorServe.org/networkSome key takeaways from this conversation:Andy Root on the importance of authentic relationships in ministry over strategies and programs: “Every part of the Christian life is evangelistic.”Andy Root on the significance of recognizing how social media shapes our inner lives: “Social media has been a huge piece of what ignites our unhappiness and our despair.”Andy Root on the deep and often overlooked impact of simply being present with others: “​​​​In this accelerated age, we miss the utter power of what it means just to be present with people.”----------------Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? FrontStage BackStage is much more than another church leadership show, it is a complete resource to help you and your ministry leaders grow. Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed.Visit http://PastorServe.org/network to find the Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide. Our team pulls key insights and quotes from every conversation with our guests. We also create engaging questions for you and your team to consider and process, providing space for you to reflect on how each episode's topic relates to your unique church context. Use these questions in your staff meetings, or other settings, to guide your conversation as you invest in the growth of your ministry leaders. Love well, live well, & lead well Complimentary Coaching Session for Pastors http://PastorServe.org/freesession Follow PastorServe LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookConnect with Jason Daye LinkedIn | Instagram...

Psalm 142 (ESV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss the back and forth emotions seen in the psalms, even in similar psalms. They recognize how the psalms mirror life and encourage us to pray no matter what emotions fill our hearts.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=22010The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

When Jonah hit rock bottom, he discovered God's mercy still met him there. In the belly of a fish and the weight of his own failure, Jonah looked up in desperation, not knowing if God would respond. This reminds us even when we've run far, messed up big, or feel completely alone—God is still just one prayer away, offering grace, rescue, and another chance. Teacher - Tom Harrigan

THE HISTORY OF ASTON VILLA | PART TWO | 1945-1980: GLORY, DESPAIR & A SAUNDERS RESURGENCEAs part of our History of Aston Villa series, we look at Aston VIlla's attempts to reestablish their strength in the post-war years. We talk about the club's last FA Cup win, Villa's brutal fall through the mid-1960s to early 70s, before Ron Saunders led the team into a glorious era.PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.ALLVILLANOFILLER.COMFOLLOW US AND SUBSCRIBE ONLINE!WEBSITEwww.allvillanofiller.comGET IN TOUCHYouTube: Search All Villa No FillerTwitter: @VillaNoFillerInstagram: @allvillanofillerFacebook: All Villa No FillerEmail: allvillanofiller@gmail.comHOSTS: George Zielinski (@ZielinskiGeorge) / Frankie Maguire (@FrankieMaguire)PRODUCTION: Frankie Maguire#avfc #utv #astonvilla #football #villapark #soccer #CHAMPIONSLEAGUE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together, we will explore the critical distinction between "letting go" and "giving up" through a Buddhist philosophical lens. Margaret discusses how letting go is a conscious, compassionate practice of releasing attachment without losing hope or effort, while giving up represents a collapse into despair, apathy, and complete surrender. Using personal anecdotes and insights from Buddhist teachings, she encourages listeners to navigate challenging times with wisdom, equanimity, and continued engagement. Key Points

The governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, says emergency workers will be relentless in their search for everyone missing after catastrophic flash floods. At least 27 girls from a Christian summer camp are unaccounted for. More than 50 people are known to have died. There is a lot of anger that, for some Texans, official flood warnings came too late. Also in the programme: Israel and Hamas are due to begin indirect talks in Qatar on a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal; and billionaire Elon Musk gives a name to his new political party: "The America Party". (Photo: Houses and cars are partially submerged in flood waters in an aerial view near Kerrville, Texas, US. July 4, 2025. Credit: US Coast Guard/Handout via Reuters)

Scott Coleman and Stephen Tolbert co-host Episode 228 of the Hammer Territory Podcast. Topics include another brutal weekend for the Atlanta Braves against the Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta's decision to (finally) sit Marcell Ozuna for a game on Sunday, the downturn over the last two and a half weeks, where things go from here, and much more.Try Huel with 15% OFF for New Customers today using code FOUL at https://huel.com/foul. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to https://Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code FOUL. Two easy ways to support the show: Leave us a nice rating/review here and SUBSCRIBE to HT on YouTube!

Not much Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Psalm 43:1-5 we learned that God's light and truth lead us from deep despair to hopeful joy.

The post Why Are You in Despair, O My Soul? Part 1 appeared first on Calvary Community Church.

Year C – 4th Sunday after Pentecost; Lectionary 14 – July 6, 2025 Pastor Megan Floyd Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 Galatians 6:1-16 Grace and peace to you from our Lord, Jesus Christ, who includes us in the mission of bringing forth the kingdom of God. Amen. *** Hospitality is a big deal. My mother took hospitality very seriously and impressed the importance of it upon me from an early age. I can remember going over to other people's homes and being instructed ahead of time to be polite, say please and thank you… and, no matter what, do not complain about what is served for dinner. You eat it… and you say thank you. If we wandered out of line, all it took was a look… you know… the look… I came to understand that both extending and receiving hospitality are how we honor each other. Even if we don't typically use that language for it, it remains an unspoken truth in our culture. Hospitality is still a big deal today, but in ancient times… hospitality was a matter of life and death. There weren't many places we would equate to a modern hotel or restaurant, so travelers had to rely on the hospitality of extended family… or even strangers for food, shelter, and protection. And those travelers who had no money or bag, no extra food, no clothing, or shoes… well, they were especially vulnerable… especially in need. And yet, this is exactly how Jesus sends out his messengers. Vulnerable and in need… Like lambs into the midst of wolves… go, he says,… and take nothing except the good news that the kingdom of God is near. Go into a place, and extend your peace… if it is received, you will know that the soil of their hearts is good soil, ready to receive the good news of Jesus… If you show up with nothing but your need and your hunger, and you are still welcomed… then they are ready to be transformed by the inbreaking of God's kingdom. …and if not… if you are rejected… then just move on. You've lost nothing, so shake off the dust and continue on your journey. God will deal with them later, but you, o messenger of Jesus… you keep going. Jesus sends them out like lambs among wolves… to go into a strange land and show up on a stranger's doorstep with nothing but their thirst and their hunger… with nothing but their need for care. Jesus is tilling the soil for the seed of his message… but it's also a test of hospitality. Will they be received, or will they be turned away? Will these strangers who show up in need be welcomed and offered food, or will they be detained in cages and subjected to threats and abuse? The lectionary skips some verses in today's passage… some pretty harsh verses… skipping them makes it more palatable, especially for the preacher. But I think we need to go there… Verse 12 says… “I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.” The story of Sodom has become twisted around bias and prejudice, so let me remind you of the basics of that story… The story of Sodom is a story of angels who show up at night as strangers in a strange place, planning to spend the night in the town square. Lot meets them at the city gate, and urges them to stay in his home, under his protection. Later, the men of the town surround the house… with a plan for gang violence and the worst kinds of abuse. The inhospitality of Sodom when strangers come into town… layered with cruelty and violence… the utter dehumanization of these strangers… this… this is what brings forth God's wrath. And this… this is the potential danger the disciples might face, and the seriousness of their mission… but the message must go out. The kingdom of God is near! …and the world will never be the same. Jesus sends his disciples out, intentionally vulnerable… intentionally in need… intentionally relying on the hospitality of strangers… He sends them out to find the good soil… to find those who are ready to be transformed by Jesus. But for those who reject them… for those who cannot see past the disciples' need… their hunger… for those who see these strangers as a burden too great for their communities to bear… It will be more tolerable for Sodom than for them. Hospitality is a big deal, and no one takes it more seriously than God. But my friends… despair is not an option. We are to shake off the dust, and continue in the mission of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ… We are to continue in the mission of participating in the inbreaking of God's kingdom, for the kingdom of God IS NEAR! Despair is not an option, because the kingdom of God is near and it is beautiful and full of love… and because I know your hearts are indeed the kind of good soil that welcomes strangers… I know you are helping to bring that beautiful kingdom closer. This community is very clearly the kind of community that welcomes strangers… the poor, the hungry, the immigrant… you welcome them as siblings in Christ… and you honor them by extending hospitality… And in this way, you further Jesus' mission on earth, and share God's love here… as it is in heaven. But there's more to the mission… Jesus urges us to continue in this way… but he also urges us to tell our story of how sharing God's love through radical welcome and hospitality has transformed our lives. The disciples were sent as lambs among wolves… but then and now, we know not everyone is ready to receive God's word. They will reject it… and that rejection may come with threats or even violence. The message of Jesus has the power to change the world… the power to turn everything upside down… and well… most people don't typically like change… especially those in power. We can reasonably expect a swell of resistance against Jesus's message, particularly because following in the way of Christ disrupts power and privilege. But we must keep going… keep sharing the good news… keep following in the way of Christ. Paul writes in the letter to the Galatians, verse 2, we are to “bear one another's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” …and verse 10, “whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all…” not of some… but of all. I rejoice… that this community knows that bearing one another's burdens doesn't mean we reject the stranger, and only bear the burdens of those who look and think like us… And I rejoice… that this community knows that working for the good of all people does not mean working for the good of only the wealthy and powerful, but in fact, means emphasizing those whose needs are greater so that in the end, all will be cared for. Our country seems to be pushing back against this way of Christ… it has become unpopular to care for the poor, the sick, the stranger, and the immigrant… and so, those of us who cling to Jesus' mission must hold fast. Despair is not an option… instead, I invite you to rejoice with me in the good news of Jesus, and let your joy in Christ be an act of defiance against the cruelty of this world. Rejoice that we are invited into the mission of following the will of Christ and bringing close the kingdom of God, here on earth as it is in heaven. Rejoice in the love for our neighbor that is shared when we extend and receive hospitality with strangers. Rejoice in the furthering of Jesus' message when we either hear or tell stories of transformation through Christ. Rejoice when we care for the poor, the sick, the hungry, the prisoner, or anyone in need… and rejoice if we find we were the ones in need and received that same care and provision from others. My friends, the kingdom of God is near… because Jesus Christ is near. And Jesus is both calling us in… and sending us forth… to tell the good news of what God has done for us… to tell our story of how God's love has transformed our lives. We are called to extend love, care, and hospitality to strangers, and to participate in the bringing close of God's kingdom. It might be a bumpy road, but do not despair, for the kingdom of God is near, and in that we can rejoice. Amen.

Blast has been shot down! Betsy and Smartwell have been captured! And now, from the depths of the Martian Forest, a new, mysterious figure, The Duke, enters the fray! But will he be friend or foe?! RAT0007: Blast Burton #2 – “Into the Pit of Despair”. Written by Matt Clemmons and Lori Ann Stuckmeyer. Recorded live at BaristaGo Coffee House on 9/21/24. Blast Burton, Commander of the Radar Rocket Rangers, and his top-notch team  fight a never-ending battle across the solar system against the forces of Tangar the Terrible, tyrannical Emperor of Mars, and Sersi Sinister, the evil Witch Queen of the Crimson Coven! You wont want to miss an episode of this hilarious, adventure Serial!  Find more Radio-Active Theater shows, episodes, live performance dtes and more at http://www.radioactivetheater.com Support us on Patreon! Follow on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe on YouTube!

What happens when you've optimized everything… and growth still stalls? In this episode, Dan and Ian break down a powerful distinction most founders miss: the difference between optimization (making your business run smoother) and growth (finding and testing new paths to scale). They unpack insights from Growth Levers by Matt Lerner, a framework that helped PayPal and other startups unlock massive growth and why it still applies to bootstrappers today. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Dan and Ian run operations in under 5 hours per week using the “Four Bricks”: financials, a measured plan, individual scorecards, and pulse meetings (aka the Daily Huddle). Plus: why growth experiments often fail, how to avoid optimization creep, and how interviewing your customers using the “Jobs to Be Done” framework can reveal the 10% that leads to 90% of your growth. LINKS: “Growth Levers and How to Find Them” by Matt Lerner (https://www.amazon.com/Growth-Levers-How-Find-Them/dp/173842622X) “Scaling Up” By Verne Harnish (https://www.amazon.com/Scaling-Up-Mastering-Rockefeller-Habits/dp/0986019593/ref=sr_1_1?crid=I82ETY13E1ZJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EunjEAWizJJCnRStrVvxOJwktAGOrvzCg7v4AoNJfIU6bVKGlwoaahD13GvmODVvdHfxaCtbalOfRWgZOg5S21BtHBMaKYq62OqBxcVCNbGCvxTyjwgDSB-CCVhwxnkkdUIfFUnmjvgMdP0NNqU-7ueWn59X5uFP1GVKtTr9KukRePtfM9H9riTjX7cbPcSSX6o8FtAMy464cHeRDDiEG-HRIkkMFr6E78CM5s3og_g.lpyuAh6r5azEIrwxxEgYJiq8LPg5qtpavZ6HnojzTvo&dib_tag=se&keywords=scaling+up&qid=1751519981&s=books&sprefix=scaling+up%2Cstripbooks-intl-ship%2C115&sr=1-1) Daily Huddle Template (https://docs.google.com/document/d/14i_qZjKFDP_IEjiF3XHd1j41H6Vop_Cp987L41QjXOQ/edit?tab=t.0) Company Scoreboard Template (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ArOv-eMCWIxF8Yk3ngUlAuxITgMK3GUR5E6mfw57vR4/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.3olbivi0zybz) Individual Scorecard Template (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J_EGV0SnmhjBRRYr5GDnUGV9ULTd1Bbz9RaJQfEVAQw/edit?tab=t.0) “Jobs to Be Done” Interview Framework (https://www.dscout.com/people-nerds/the-jobs-to-be-done-interviewing-style-understanding-who-users-are-trying-to-become) Dan's Four Bricks presentation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZooQo760Ik&ab_channel=TropicalMBA) Connect with generous global entrepreneurs (https://dynamitecircle.com/) CHAPTERS: (00:00:13) Intro: Founders, Channels, and What's Working in 2025 (00:01:40) Growth vs Optimization: The Lens That Changes Everything (00:09:34) The Four Bricks: How to Run Ops in Under 5 Hours/Week (00:18:38) Why Most Teams Avoid Growth (00:20:32) Growth Levers: The 10% That Drives 90% of Growth (00:28:00) Jobs to Be Done: Why Customers Really Buy (00:33:26) Growth Sprints: How to Experiment Without Burning Out (00:36:22) Common Mistakes That Kill Growth Early CONNECT: Dan@tropicalmba.com Ian@tropicalmba.com Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella. PLAYLIST: “It's easier to 10X than to 2X” + 8 Lessons from CEO Bootcamp (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/easier-10x-than-2x) Building ‘Brick by Brick': Goals, Plans, Scorecards, Cadence (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/brick-by-brick) 90-Day Growth Plan in 10 Questions (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/90-day-growth) The Wheel of Despair and the Paradox of Growth (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/wheel-despair-paradox-growth)

John recently published “Lying in Politics: Hannah Arendt's Antidote to Anticipatory Despair" in Public Books. It makes the case against anticipatory despair in the face of the Trump administration's relentless campaign of lies, half-lies, bluster, and bullshit by turning for inspiration to his favorite political philosopher, Hannah Arendt. Half a century ago, in "Lying in Politics: Reflections on the Pentagon Papers" (1971) she showed how expedient occasional lies spread to become omnipresent--not just in how America's campaigns in Vietnam were reported, but throughout Nixon-era governance. Recall this Book 153 is simply John reading the article aloud. It is an experiment (akin to Books in Dark Times and Recall This Story and Recall This B-Side) in soliloquy. Reach out and let us know if you think it should be the first of many, or simply a one-off. Mentioned in the episode: M. Gessen, Surviving Autocracy Harry Frankfurt, "On Bullshit" Vaclav Havel, "The Power of the Powerless" (1978) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

John recently published “Lying in Politics: Hannah Arendt's Antidote to Anticipatory Despair" in Public Books. It makes the case against anticipatory despair in the face of the Trump administration's relentless campaign of lies, half-lies, bluster, and bullshit by turning for inspiration to his favorite political philosopher, Hannah Arendt. Half a century ago, in "Lying in Politics: Reflections on the Pentagon Papers" (1971) she showed how expedient occasional lies spread to become omnipresent--not just in how America's campaigns in Vietnam were reported, but throughout Nixon-era governance. Recall this Book 153 is simply John reading the article aloud. It is an experiment (akin to Books in Dark Times and Recall This Story and Recall This B-Side) in soliloquy. Reach out and let us know if you think it should be the first of many, or simply a one-off. Mentioned in the episode: M. Gessen, Surviving Autocracy Harry Frankfurt, "On Bullshit" Vaclav Havel, "The Power of the Powerless" (1978) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John recently published “Lying in Politics: Hannah Arendt's Antidote to Anticipatory Despair" in Public Books. It makes the case against anticipatory despair in the face of the Trump administration's relentless campaign of lies, half-lies, bluster, and bullshit by turning for inspiration to his favorite political philosopher, Hannah Arendt. Half a century ago, in "Lying in Politics: Reflections on the Pentagon Papers" (1971) she showed how expedient occasional lies spread to become omnipresent--not just in how America's campaigns in Vietnam were reported, but throughout Nixon-era governance. Recall this Book 153 is simply John reading the article aloud. It is an experiment (akin to Books in Dark Times and Recall This Story and Recall This B-Side) in soliloquy. Reach out and let us know if you think it should be the first of many, or simply a one-off. Mentioned in the episode: M. Gessen, Surviving Autocracy Harry Frankfurt, "On Bullshit" Vaclav Havel, "The Power of the Powerless" (1978) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory

John recently published “Lying in Politics: Hannah Arendt's Antidote to Anticipatory Despair" in Public Books. It makes the case against anticipatory despair in the face of the Trump administration's relentless campaign of lies, half-lies, bluster, and bullshit by turning for inspiration to his favorite political philosopher, Hannah Arendt. Half a century ago, in "Lying in Politics: Reflections on the Pentagon Papers" (1971) she showed how expedient occasional lies spread to become omnipresent--not just in how America's campaigns in Vietnam were reported, but throughout Nixon-era governance. Recall this Book 153 is simply John reading the article aloud. It is an experiment (akin to Books in Dark Times and Recall This Story and Recall This B-Side) in soliloquy. Reach out and let us know if you think it should be the first of many, or simply a one-off. Mentioned in the episode: M. Gessen, Surviving Autocracy Harry Frankfurt, "On Bullshit" Vaclav Havel, "The Power of the Powerless" (1978) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

John recently published “Lying in Politics: Hannah Arendt's Antidote to Anticipatory Despair" in Public Books. It makes the case against anticipatory despair in the face of the Trump administration's relentless campaign of lies, half-lies, bluster, and bullshit by turning for inspiration to his favorite political philosopher, Hannah Arendt. Half a century ago, in "Lying in Politics: Reflections on the Pentagon Papers" (1971) she showed how expedient occasional lies spread to become omnipresent--not just in how America's campaigns in Vietnam were reported, but throughout Nixon-era governance. Recall this Book 153 is simply John reading the article aloud. It is an experiment (akin to Books in Dark Times and Recall This Story and Recall This B-Side) in soliloquy. Reach out and let us know if you think it should be the first of many, or simply a one-off. Mentioned in the episode: M. Gessen, Surviving Autocracy Harry Frankfurt, "On Bullshit" Vaclav Havel, "The Power of the Powerless" (1978) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

A message by Luc LeFort on 6/29/2025Psalm 73:1-28Compass Bible Church Treasure Valley is located in Meridian, Idaho.For more information about Compass Bible Church go to https://www.compassbible.tv/To follow our daily Bible reading plan and podcast go to https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/

The Dreaming may be in need of a new master! Hayley and Brian chat about "Season of Mists", from The Sandman comic run, as a primer for season two of the Netflix series, since it will be the basis for the first arc of the show. Some comments made by Dream's siblings in the Endless, mainly Desire, have him determined to right a wrong he did... but he needs to venture back to Hell to accomplish it. What the Hell could possibly go wrong, seeing as how Lucifer still wants revenge on Dream?Content covered: The Sandman (1988-1996)Issues 21 - 28: Season of MistsThe Sandman, Act II: An Audible Original Audio Drama: Episodes 1 - 8EMAIL: SPARCPODCAST@GMAIL.COMTWITTER: https://twitter.com/SourcePagesCastINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesourcepagespodcast/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/SPARCPODCASTSPaRC's Podcast Buddies:Across the Bifrost: The Mighty Thor - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/across-the-bifrost-the-mighty-thor-podcast/id1572200841Dan and Ian Have Questions - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dan-and-ian-have-questions-podcast/id1587402809Commute: The Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/commute-the-podcast/id1552657624Segabits - https://segabits.com/Machtails From the Cantina - https://www.facebook.com/machtailsfromthecantina/Rebel Force Radio Presents "The Babu Freaks" - https://www.rebelforceradio.com/shows/category/BaJacked Kirby - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jacked-kirby/id1248146026So Weird So Fun - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-weird-so-fun-swsf-friends-through-fandom/id1793135012Star Wars YOU-niverse - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/star-wars-you-niverse-podcast/id1704904756

Editor's Intro: Michael Damian Thomas Short Fiction: “The Diner at the Intersection of Duty and Despair” by John Chu, as read by Matt Peters Poetry: “Soft, Your Grief, and Leporine” by Lora Gray, as read by Erika Ensign Interview: Michael Damian Thomas interviews John Chu   Want to join the Space Unicorn Ranger Corps? You can find new science fiction and fantasy stories, poetry, and nonfiction every month in Uncanny Magazine. Go to uncannymagazine.com or subscribe to the eBook version at weightlessbooks.com. This podcast was produced by Erika Ensign and Steven Schapansky. Music created by Null Device and used with permission. Copyright © 2025 by Uncanny Magazine

No matter what is happening to you, there is hope!

How did we get here, and what do we do now?  Related Resource Learn more about the Colson Fellows Program at colsonfellows.org.  ______________ Be a part of restoring what's broken at colsoncenter.org/june. 

I know I've been MIA the past month, and I've recorded this episode with a broken heart to explain why. This episode is messy, raw and honestly I'm still in shock that I had to record it at all.. But I always want to keep it real with you guys about the realities of what we all go through in life.. and right now I am really going through it..  My Mum was truly one of a kind. The best parts of me, are her.  In honor of her generous heart and lifelong mission to uplift others, we've created the Julie Fitzsimons Legacy Fund at Sheridan College. This endowment will support students in the performing arts and athletics who are facing adversity—because that's exactly what Mum would have done. To learn more or donate, click here. On this page, please select 'Honor/Memorial' on the dropdown menu and put the name "Julie Fitzsimons" in the comments session. To see my final photo with Mum under the most beautiful rainbow, click on my instagram here. I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who's reached out with messages of love and support.. I've been reading them all and all of your beautiful words have been giving me strength to keep holding on through this confusing and daunting time of adjusting to a new normal that feels anything but normal.. At the end of this episode, you'll also hear the podcast I had recorded just two days before my life flipped upside down. I've decided to release it along with this announcement because - well firstly I wanted you all to hear how excited I was to have my parents in town, it brought me so much joy - but also because even though my world feels so different now, the message still matters: how to stay commited to your goals when change gets hard. In this episode, I walk you through the five emotional stages of change—an honest roadmap adapted from the work of psychologists Don Kelley and Daryl Connor. Whether you're chasing a fitness goal, launching a side hustle, or starting over after heartbreak, this is the truth no one tells you about what real change feels like. You'll learn: Why motivation always fades—and what to do when it does How to recognize the infamous “Valley of Despair” before it swallows your dreams Why discomfort doesn't mean something's gone wrong—it means something's working What to expect at each stage of growth, and how to navigate it without giving up I also share personal stories—from starting my speaking career to moving across the world on a dream and a visa—to remind you: you are not behind, broken, or alone. You're just in the messy middle. And that's where progress begins. Life is too short to quit on the things that you truly care about, just because they're uncomfortable sometimes. May my Mum and sister's legacies inspire you to be kind, be brave and be fully invested on living your best life. X kg    

After the European football public had caught their breath following the first semi final, most assumed that the finale itself had the potential to be the best of all. Denmark were strong favourites to beat Spain - who were extremely fortunate to still be active in the competition - and set up a beautiful footballing conclusion to an enjoyable tournament. However, many Spanish players believed that luck was with them. Something that can take teams a long way in these things... Rob is with Martyn this week to explain Denmark's sudden rise to prominence, why so many neutrals took them to heart and how Spain broke those hearts in the end. 'Danish Dynamite', which Rob co-wrote with Mike Gibbons and Lars Eriksen is still available in the usual places. If you want weekly exclusive bonus shows, want your episodes without ads and a couple of days earlier or just want to support the podcast, then head over to patreon.com/NessunDormaPodcast where you can subscribe for only $3.99 a month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wimbledon! The Championships are upon once again with a lot to live up to after THAT dramatic finale at Roland Garros. Join the gang at Tennis Weekly HQ as they react to the men's and women's draws, dish out some dodgy predictions and unveil Collect a Set player picks. On the men's side, the question on everyone's lips might be will we get another edition of the Carlos Alcaraz - Jannik Sinner rivalry? Joel's not so sure and whilst Carlitos has been handed a pretty routine draw on paper, Jannik Sinner got some trick battles including a potential all Italian quarterfinal with Lorenzo Musetti, last year's semifinalist. Great British hope Jack Draper also got dealt a nightmarish draw with both his French Open conqueror Alexander Bublik and Queen's conqueror Jakub Mensik in his section along with Novak Djokovic who has been in the last SIX Wimbledon finals.On the women's side, can Aryna Sabalenka finally get over the finish line and win a Grand Slam title this season? In her way is a potential R3 showdown with Britain's Emma Raducanu or former champion Market Vondrousova who got the better of her recently in Berlin. French Open champion Coco Gauff also may have hoped for a kinder draw with a tricky opening against Nottingham finalist Yastremska with Rybakina and Swiatek lurking close by. The team also discuss prize money as Britain's Oliver Tarvet will NOT be allowed to claim his prize money of at least £66,000 due to still being in college in America. Join us as we get underway with daily episodes to come throughout The Championships starting on Monday!BABOLATBabolat are an official partner of Wimbledon and their Wimbledon collaboration collection is available to purchase now from babolat.com SOCIALSFollow us on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, plus email the show tennisweeklypod@gmail.com.MERCHPurchase Tennis Weekly Merch through our Etsy store including limited edition designs by Krippa Design where all proceeds go towards the podcast so we can keep doing what we do!REVIEWS***Please take a moment to rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your pods. It really means a lot to us at HQ and helps make it easier for new listeners to discover us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this wartime-fever-dream-inflected special episode Miriam Herschlag and Noah Efron talk about (1) the only thing any of us have talked about for the past weeks, what US President Donald Trump called “The Twelve-Day War,” and (2) several things we have NOT talked about for the past weeks, but maybe ought to have, including what's going on in Gaza, a joint-Palestinian-Israel efforts to get humanitarian aid to Gaza, and an Israeli Rabbi and a Melburnian Bar Mitzvah boy working together to create unity. All this and music and cats on rooftops, plus as moving a wedding as we've ever seen. Hear the Extra-Special, Special Extra Segment on Patreon For our most unreasonably generous Patreon supporters, in our extra-special, special extra discussion: Despair, anxiety, hope and exhaustion: What we're feeling now.

Despair can loom over us like a fearsome giant. And doubt can become like a prison cell. John Bunyan envisioned both in The Pilgrim’s Progress but he didn’t forget—God has provided a means of escape.

Are people with more discretionary income happier than those who live paycheck to paycheck? Maybe some, but not all. As it turns out, more is not always better or the prescription for a happy life. Ultimately, it seems that attainable dreams and hope are the true keys to long-term well-being and happiness, regardless of income level, because it's the belief in a better future that truly fuels contentment.To explore the science of well-being, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with Dr. Carol Graham,a senior scientist at Gallup, an author, and a senior fellow in the Economic Studies program at Brookings.Carol analyzes income disparities between the affluent and impoverished, examining their happiness levels through the lens of what she terms 'the happy peasant and the miserable millionaire paradox.' She also presents statistics on the decline of mental well-bei Like what you're hearing?WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING? Check out More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on Substack and Medium.

We hope you enjoy today's Scripture reading and devotional aimed at motivating you to apply God's word while strengthening your heart and nurturing your soul. Today's Bible reading is Jeremiah 15:10–21. To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional. ESV Bible narration read by Kristyn Getty. Follow us on social media to stay up to date: Instagram Facebook Twitter

Guest: Writer, historian, and activist, Rebecca Solnit is the author of more than twenty books, including Orwell's Roses, and most lately No Straight Road Takes You There: Essays for Uneven Terrain. She cofounded the organization Not Too Late and coauthored the book Not Too Late: Changing the Climate Story from Despair to Possibility with Thelma Young Lutunatabua.  She also launched Meditations in an Emergency, an independent publication. The post Rebecca Solnit on No Straight Road Takes You There appeared first on KPFA.

A person can only survive only so long without food or water. But did you know that some experts say we can't survive at all without hope? Join Chip as he explains every person has an HQ - a Hope Quotient - and why it matters!Understanding Hope:Finding Hope & Keeping it AliveThe context: Philippians 1-2In difficult circumstances = I choose joy!In challenging relationships = I choose love!In confusion and chaos = I choose hope!The command: Rejoice in the Lord -- Philippians 3:1The warning: Beware of false teachers -- Philippians 3:23 Vital TakeawaysWhatever we put our HOPE in will determine what we WORSHIP.False HOPE always ends in either PRIDE or DESPAIR. 1 Timothy 6:17True HOPE is rooted in RELATIONSHIP and results in JOY and ENDURANCE. Romans 5:1-5Speaker Mentioned ResourceRay Johnston - The Hope QuotientBroadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Joy" Book"I Choose Joy" Home Church StudyMid Year MatchMid Year MatchConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Did you know that wherever we put our hope - that's what we worship? Interesting idea. So what happens if we worship false hope? On the other hand, what happens if we worship true hope? Join Chip to find out.Understanding Hope:Finding Hope & Keeping it AliveThe context: Philippians 1-2In difficult circumstances = I choose joy!In challenging relationships = I choose love!In confusion and chaos = I choose hope!The command: Rejoice in the Lord -- Philippians 3:1The warning: Beware of false teachers -- Philippians 3:23 Vital TakeawaysWhatever we put our HOPE in will determine what we WORSHIP.False HOPE always ends in either PRIDE or DESPAIR. 1 Timothy 6:17True HOPE is rooted in RELATIONSHIP and results in JOY and ENDURANCE. Romans 5:1-5Speaker Mentioned ResourceRay Johnston - The Hope QuotientBroadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Joy" Book"I Choose Joy" Home Church StudyMid Year MatchMid Year MatchConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

A person can only survive only so long without food or water. But did you know that some experts say we can't survive at all without hope? Join Chip as he explains every person has an HQ - a Hope Quotient - and why it matters!Understanding Hope:Finding Hope & Keeping it AliveThe context: Philippians 1-2In difficult circumstances = I choose joy!In challenging relationships = I choose love!In confusion and chaos = I choose hope!The command: Rejoice in the Lord -- Philippians 3:1The warning: Beware of false teachers -- Philippians 3:23 Vital TakeawaysWhatever we put our HOPE in will determine what we WORSHIP.False HOPE always ends in either PRIDE or DESPAIR. 1 Timothy 6:17True HOPE is rooted in RELATIONSHIP and results in JOY and ENDURANCE. Romans 5:1-5Speaker Mentioned ResourceRay Johnston - The Hope QuotientBroadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Joy" Book"I Choose Joy" Home Church StudyMid Year MatchMid Year MatchConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003