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In this episode of Deacons Pod, the Paulist Deacon Affiliates speak with Fr. Robin Ryan, CP, author of the new Paulist Press book "Life is Changed, Not Ended: An Introduction to Christian Eschatology." Christian eschatology is the study of the "last things" including death, immortality of the soul, resurrection, and the end of time. Fr. Ryan's book ends with a reflection on Julian of Norwich's teaching about hope grounded in the love of God as exemplified by the passion of Christ, and considering the mystery of suffering. A member of the Passionists, Fr. Ryan is professor of systematic theology and director of the Master of Arts in the theology program at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He also is author of the Paulist Press books "God and the Mystery of Human Suffering" and "Gazing on the Face of Christ: A Christ-Centered Spirituality." ABOUT THE SHOW: Deacons Pod is a podcast for everyone. But, it's especially created to inspire and give hope to people on the “threshold of faith”: Those who are thinking about going to Church and those who are thinking about leaving Church. Deacons Pod is hosted by the Paulist Deacon affiliates. The podcast is a production of the Paulist Fathers. More at deaconspod.com

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Tuesday before Ash Wednesday is a traditionally celebrated the Holy Face of Jesus.Gazing upon the face of Christ crucified unites us with all His sorrows, love, and total abandonment.In 1957, Pope Pius XII established this feast.Jesus revealed devotion to the Holy Face to Sister Marie of Saint Peter (1816-1848), a Carmelite nun from Tours, France.Our Lord said to her:“Every time My Face is contemplated, I will pour out My Love into the hearts of those persons, and by means of My Holy Face, the salvation of many souls will be obtained.”Two miraculous images are associated with the Holy Face Devotion: Veronica's Veil, the cloth used by Saint Veronica to wipe the face of Jesus during his passion, and the Holy Shroud of Turin, the burial cloth of Christ.As revealed to Blessed Sister Pierina, Tuesday is a day of reparation to the Holy Face in front of the Blessed Sacrament. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!+ Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• ⁠March 4, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Jump in with Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta on episode 224 of Jumpers Jump. This episode we discuss: Being yourself in a big crowd, Being an empath, Shameik Moore simping, Actor making director cry behind the scenes, Cancun vacation gone wrong, Birds chirping in the morning theory, Sun gazing theories, Tourism in the Philippines vs Japan, Dog paranormal video, Running away from a person in abandoned hospital, Paranormal doll video, Abraham lincoln urban legend, Dreams that feel too real, Empty dreams theory, Cosplaying ideas, Anxiety affecting daily life, Being nice vs kind, Video games as a distraction, Using hate to fuel motivation, fashion week in the Philippines, Alkaline diet and much more! Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at https://SHOPIFY.COM/jumpers Follow the podcast: @JumpersPodcast Follow Carlos: @CarlosJuico Follow Gavin: @GavinRutaa Check out the podcast on YouTube: https://bit.ly/JumpersJumpYT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A jungle brandishes a whale-shaped WEAPON, Tifa earns a scar for not having one, Whispers clash in Lifestream, and Rebirth's Cid loses his temper. This episode completes Chapter 9: The Planet Stirs.

Gini Dietrich dives into AI and how PR professionals are the future of marketing. She discussed the future of paid media and using paid strategies to extend your reach with valuable content with the PESO Model. The key isn't reaching the most people; it's reaching the right people.

Good and bad unintended consequences.By FinalStand. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.The highest cost of losing a war is the rage of your children."Maybe the Canadian is not so much an 'ex' girlfriend?" Orsi leered. It was the old 'if he is so good that she still wants him back after a colossal screw up, I wanted a taste' expression."Do you think she will help you?" Katalin inquired."She'll help," Pamela huffed playfully. "My grandson has plenty of ex-girlfriends. Most of them want him back, despite his colorful lifestyle. It is one of his more amusing qualities.""Let's get something to eat," I tried to turn the conversation away from my past sexcapades."You are engaged?" Jolan didn't miss a beat."It is complicated," I sighed. "Let's just say I really like her, but she's seven years older, divorced with one young daughter and has a father who hates that I live and breathe.""Do you have any male friends?" Monika joined the Cáel Quiz Bowl."Yes," I replied with confidence. "My roommate Timothy and I are great friends.""He's gay," Pamela pierced their disbelief. "He and Cáel are true brothers-in-arms, I'll give Cáel that much.""Do you have any straight male friends?" Orsi was enjoying taunting me."Do Chaz or Vincent count?" I looked to Pamela."They are straight males, but they don't really know you yet," Pamela failed to be of much help. "I think Vincent insinuated he'd shoot you if you dated any of his three daughters. It was friendly of him to warn you. I supposed that could be construed as liking you.""Are all your acquaintances violent?" Anya seemed worried."Vincent isn't violent. He's with the US FBI," I retorted. Pause. "Okay, he carries a gun and shoots it, he's a law officer. They can do that.""You seem to be stressed," Orsi put an arm around my waist. "Let us ease your worries." Hallelujah!Note: One of History's LessonsIn the last 75 years of military history, airpower had been a decisive factor in every major conflict, save one. Most Americans would think the one exception was US involvement in Vietnam and they'd be wrong: right country, wrong time. Indochina's War of Independence against France was the exception. There, the French Air Force was simply inadequate to the task.Yes, the United States and its allies eventually lost the struggle in Vietnam. But it was their airpower that kept the conflict running as long as it did. For the most part, the Allied and Communist military hardware on the ground were equivalent. While the Allies had superior quantities of supplies, the Communists countered that with numbers, and therein lies the rub.Airpower allowed the Allies to smash large North Vietnamese formations south of the Demilitarized Zone and thus prevented the numerical advantage from coming into play. The North Vietnamese and Viet Cong made one serious stab at a conventional militarily challenge to the Allies, the Tet Offensive, and after initial successes, they were crushed.With the NVA unable to flex their superior numbers, the Allies were able to innovate helicopter-borne counter-insurgency operations. The North Vietnam's Army (NVA) was forced to operate in smaller units, so the Allies were able to engage them in troop numbers that helicopters could support. The air forces didn't deliver ultimate victory, but air power alone had never been able to do so on land. It was only when the US lost faith in achieving any positive outcome in Viet Nam and pulled out, that the North was finally able to overrun the South 20 months later. But every major power today understands the lesson.End of Note(Big Trouble in Little China)The military importance of airpower was now haunting the leadership of the People's Republic of China (PRC), the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). Their problem wasn't aircraft. Most of their air fleet consisted of the most advanced models produced during the last two decades. The problem was that 80% of their pilots were dead, or dying. Their ground crews were in the same peril. Even shanghaiing commercial pilots couldn't meet the projected pilot shortfall.Classic PLA defense doctrine was to soak up an enemy (Russian) attack and bog down the aggressor with semi-guerilla warfare (classic small unit tactics backed up with larger, light infantry formations). Then, when the invaders were over-extended and exhausted, the armored / mechanized / motorized forces would counter-attack and destroy their foes. This last bit required air superiority through attrition.The twin enemies of this strategy were the price of technology and the Chinese economic priorities. With the rising cost of the high-tech equipment and a central government focus on developing the overall economy, the Chinese went for an ever smaller counter attack striking force, thus skewing the burden of depth of support far in favor of their relatively static militia/police units.So now, while the PLA / PLAAF's main divisions, brigades and Air Wings were some of the best equipped on the planet, the economic necessities had also meant the militia was financially neglected, remaining little more than early Cold War Era non-mechanized infantry formations. To compensate, the Chinese had placed greater and greater emphasis on the deployment capabilities of their scarcer, technologically advanced formations.When the Anthrax outbreak started, the strike force personnel were the first personnel 'vaccinated'. Now those men and women were coughing out the last days and hours of their lives. Unfortunately, you couldn't simply put a few commercial truck drivers in a T-99 Main Battle Tank and expect them to be anything more than a rolling coffin. The same went for a commercial airline pilot and a Chengdu J-10 multi-role fighter. The best you could hope for was for him/her to make successful takeoffs and landings.A further critical factor was that the Khanate's first strike had also targeted key defense industries. The damage hadn't been irreparable. Most military production would be only a month to six weeks behind schedule. But there would be a gap.It was just becoming clear that roughly 80% of their highly-trained, frontline combatants were going to die anyway. Their Reserves were looking at 30~40% attrition due to the illness as well. In the short term (three months), they would be fighting with whatever they started with. Within the very short term (one week), they were going to have a bunch of high-priced equipment and no one trained to use it. With chilling practicality, the Chinese leaders decided to throw their dying troopers into one immediate, massive counter-offensive against the Khanate.Just as Temujin predicted they would. Things were playing out according to plan.Note: World Events SummaryRound #1 had seen the Khanate unite several countries under one, their, banner. Earth  and  Sky soldiers had rolled across the Chinese border as their Air Force and Missile Regiments had used precision strikes to hammer Chinese bases, sever their transportation network and crippled their civilian infrastructure.Next, the frontier offensive units had been obliterated, the cities bypassed and the Khanate Tumens had sped forward to the geographic junctures between what the Khanate wanted and from whence the PLA had to come. In the last phase of Round #1, the Khanate prepped for the inevitable PLA / PLAAF counter-strike.Round #2 had now begun:Step One: Declare to the World that the Khanate was a nuclear power. As history would later reveal, this was a lie, but no one had any way of initially knowing that. Hell, the Khanate hadn't even existed 72 hours ago. Satellite imagery did show the Khanate had medium-range strategic missiles capable of hitting any location in the People's Republic. In Beijing, a nuclear response was taken off the table.Step Two: Initiate the largest air-battle in the history of Asia. Not just planes either. Both sides flew fleets of UCAV's at one another. It wasn't really even a battle between China and just the Khanate. Virtually all of the UAV technology the Khanate was using was Japanese, South Korean and Taiwanese in origin, plus some US-Russian-shared technology thrown into the mix.When the South Korean design team saw the footage of their bleeding-edge dogfighting UCAVs shooting down their PRC opponents, they were thrilled (their design rocked!), shocked (what was their 'baby' doing dominating Chinese airspace?) and anxious (members of South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration, DAPA, were rushing over to chat with them).Similar things were happening in Japan, Taiwan, Russia and the United States. The Communist Party leadership in Beijing were beginning to seriously consider the possibility that everyone was out to get them. Of course, all the Ambassadors in Beijing were bobbing their heads with the utmost respect while swearing on the lives of their first born sons that their nations had nothing to do with any of this.These foreign diplomats promised to look into these egregious breaches of their scientific integrity and were saying how sorry they were that the PLA and PLAAF were getting ass-raped for the World's viewing pleasure. No, they couldn't stop the Khanate posting such things to the internet, something to do with freedom. Paranoia had been creeping into the Potentates' thoughts since the Pakistan/Aksai Chan incident.As they watched their very expensive jets and UCAV's being obliterated, distrust of the global community became the 800 pound gorilla in the room. To add habaneros to the open wounds, the United States and the United Kingdom began dropping hints that they had some sort of highly personal communication conduit with the Khanate's secretive and unresponsive leadership. Yes Virginia Wolfe, the Western World was out to get the People's Republic.'Great Mao's Ghost', all that claptrap their grandfathers had babbled on about (1) the Korea War, (2) the Sino-Soviet grudge match, (3) the Sino-Vietnamese conflict and (4) the persistent support for the renegade province of Formosa all being a continuous effort by the liberal democracies and post-colonial imperialist to contain Chinese communism, didn't sound so crazy anymore.Step Three: Plaster all those PLA ground units that had started moving toward them when the air war began and the Chinese envisioned they would control the skies. The T-99 was a great tank. It also blew up rather spectacularly when it was stuck on a rail car (you don't drive your tanks halfway across China, it kills the treads).As Craig Kilborn put into his late night repertoire:"What do you call a Khanate UCAV driver who isn't an ace yet? Late for work.""What's the difference between me coming off a weekend long Las Vegas bender and a Khanate pilot? Not a damn thing. We've both been up for three days straight, yet everyone expects us to work tonight."Some PLA generals decided to make an all-out charge at the Tumens. Genghis's boys and girls were having none of that. They weren't using their Russian-built Khanate tanks to kill Chinese-built PLA tanks. No, their tanks were sneaking around and picking off the Chinese anti-air vehicles.The Chinese tanks and APCs engaged the dismounted Khanate infantry who, as Aksai Chin had shown, possessed some of the latest anti-tank weaponry. In the few cases where the PLA threw caution to the wind, they did some damage to the Khanate by sheer weight of numbers. For the rest, it was death by airpower.With their anti-air shield gone, the battle became little more than a grisly, real-life FPS game. It wasn't 'THE END'. China still had over 2,000,000 troops to call upon versus the roughly 200,000 the Khanate could currently muster. The PLA's new dilemma was how to transport these mostly truck-bound troops anywhere near the front lines without seeing them also exterminated from the air.After the Tumens gobbled up the majority of the PLA's available mobile forces, they resumed their advance toward the provincial boundaries of Xinjiang and Nin Mongol. There was little left to slow them down. The Chinese still held most of the urban centers in Xinjiang and Nei Mongol, yet they were isolated. And Khanate follow-up forces (the national armies they'd 'inherited') were putting the disease-riddled major municipalities under siege.All over the 24/7 World Wide News cycle, talking heads and military gurus were of two minds about the Khanate's offensive. Most harped on the fact that while the Khanate was making great territorial gains, it was barely making a dent in the Chinese population and economy. Uniformly, those people insisted that before the end of November, the Khanate would be crushed and a reordering of Asia was going to be the next great Mandate for the United Nations.A few of the braver unconventional pundits pointed out the same thing, but with the opposite conclusion, arguing:1.There were virtually no military forces in the conquered areas to contend with the Khanate's hold on the regions.2.Their popularity in the rural towns and countryside seriously undercut any hope for a pro-PRC insurgency.3.Driving the Khanate's forces back to their starting points would be a long and difficult endeavor that the World Economy might not be able to endure.When the PLAAF was effectively castrated after thirty-six hours of continuous aerial combat, a lot of experts were left with egg on their faces. One lone commentator asked the most fearful question of all. Where was the Khanate getting the financing, technical know-how and expertise to pull all of this off? There was a reason to be afraid of that answer.And while I was entertaining my six sailor-saviors, there were two other things of a diplomatic nature only just revealing themselves. Publically, Vladimir Putin had graciously offered to mediate the crisis while 'stealthily' increasing the readiness of his Eastern Military District. If there was any confusion, that meant activating a shitload of troops on the Manchurian border, not along the frontiers of the former nations of Mongolia and Kazakhstan.After all, Mongolia was terribly poor. Manchuria/Northeastern China? Manchuria was rich, rich, rich! From the Kremlin, Putin spoke of 'projecting a presence' into the 'lost territory' of Manchuria, citing Russia's long involvement in the region. By his interpretation of history, the Russians (aka the Soviet Union) had rescued Manchukuo (the theoretically INDEPENDENT Imperial Japanese puppet state of Manchuria) from the Japanese in 1945. They'd even given it back to the PRC for safekeeping after World War II was concluded.Putin promised Russia was ready and willing to help out the PRC once again, suggesting that maybe a preemptive intervention would forestall the inevitable Khanate attack, thus saving the wealthy, industrialized province from the ravages of war. Surely Putin's Russians could be relied on to withdraw once the Khanate struggle was resolved? Surprisingly, despite being recent beneficiaries of President Putin's promises, the Ukraine remained remiss in their accolades regarding his rectitude.In the other bit of breaking news; an intermediary convinced the Khanate to extend an invitation to the Red Cross, Red Crescent and the WHO to investigate the recently conquered regions in preparations for a humanitarian mission.That intermediary was Hana Sulkanen; for reasons no one could fathom, she alone had the clout to get the otherwise unresponsive new regime to open up and she was using that influence to bring about a desperately needed relief effort to aid the civilians caught up in that dynastic struggle. A Princess indeed. No one was surprised that the PRC protested, claiming that since the territory wasn't conquered, any intervention was a gross violation of Chinese sovereignty.End of Note(To Live and Die in Hun-Gray)Orsi may have been the troupe leader, but Anya needed me more, so she came first."I need a shower before we catch some dinner," I announced as we meandered the streets of Mindszent. My lady friends were all processing that as I wound an arm around Anya's waist and pulled her close. "Shower?" I smiled down at her, she was about 5 foot 7. It took her a few seconds to click on my invitation."Yeah, sure, that would be nice," she reciprocated my casual waist hold. Several of her friends giggled over her delay. We were heading back to the Seven Fishermen's Guest House."Do you do this, picking up strange girls you've barely met for, you know?" she said in Bulgarian, as she looked at me expectantly."Yes and no," I began, in Russian. "I often find myself encountering very intriguing women, for which I know I am a fortunate man. I embrace sensuality. That means I know what I'm doing, but I'm not the 'bring him home to meet the parents' kind of guy.""What of your fiancée? Do you feel bad about cheating on her?" Anya pursued me."Hana is wonderful. I've met her father and it went badly both times," I confessed."How?" Anya looked concerned for me."Would you two speak a language the rest of us can understand?" Monika teased us."Very well," I nodded to Monika, and turned back to Anya, "The first time, his son raped a girl and I threatened the young man's life," I revealed. "Jormo, Hana's father, wasn't happy when I did so. The second time, he hit me twice, once in the gut and once in the head," I continued."Why did he hit you?" Orsi butted in."I'd rather not say. You may think less of me," I confessed. Pamela gave me a wink for playing my audience so well. I'm glad she's family (kinda/sorta)."The boy, he is dead?" Magdalena guessed. "Hana's brother?""I really shouldn't talk about that," I evaded. "It is a family matter." That's right. The family that my grandmother had brought me into as her intern / slayer-in-training. There is no reason to create a new lie when you can embellish a previous one."Do you ever feel bad about what you do?" Katalin asked Pamela. We love movies."As I see it, if I show up looking for you, you've done something to deserve it," Pamela gave her sage philosophy behind being an assassin."Are you, bi-sexual?" Jolan murmured. Pamela smacked me in the chest as I laughed. "Did I say something wrong?" Jolan worried. Pamela was a killer."No, you are fine," Pamela patted Jolan's shoulder. "I'm straight and happily so. It just so happens that most of my co-workers are women. Day in, day out, nothing but sweaty female bodies working out, sparring and grappling together, and afterwards, the massages."That was my Grandma, poking all the lesbian buttons of the women around me. Best of all, she did it with the detached air of a sexually indifferent matron. She was stirring up the lassies while keeping them focused on me. We walked into the courtyard of our guest house."Don't take too long, you two," Orsi teased us."Ha!" Pamela chuckled. "That's like asking the Sun to hurry up and rise, the Moon to set too soon, or the sea to stay at low tide forever.""Anya," I whispered into her ear. "How many orgasms do you want?" Anya's eyes expanded. Her eyes flickered toward her friends, then back to me. She held up one finger, I grinned speculatively. Anya held up two fingers. I kissed her fingers.

Hour 4 Audio from WGIG-AM and FM in Brunswick, GA

Last time we spoke about the liberation of Bataan and Corregidor. The Shimbu Group's commander launched a coordinated raid on northern Manila, aiming to weaken enemy defenses. Despite heavy casualties, the Allies captured key locations, including Nichols Field. Meanwhile, General Chase's 38th Division overcame strong Japanese defenses at ZigZag Pass, while General Hall's forces secured Bataan. Plans for an airborne assault on Corregidor were set for February 16, leveraging surprise against the outnumbered Japanese garrison. American forces launched the strategic attack on Corregidor, dropping paratroopers from the 503rd Regiment. Despite facing sporadic fire, they secured key positions. The following days saw intense skirmishes as the 3rd Battalion, 34th Regiment landed and established a foothold. Over eight days, they repelled numerous Japanese counterattacks, inflicting heavy casualties. By February 26, organized resistance crumbled, leading to the island's capture. Meanwhile, in Manila, American troops advanced, clearing buildings and securing the city, inching closer to victory in the Philippines. This episode is the Invasion of Iwo Jima Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.    A few weeks ago we spoke about Operation Detachment. Admirals Nimitz and Spruance were planning an invasion of Iwo Jima with General Schmidt's 5th Amphibious Corps. During a thorough campaign of preliminary air and naval bombardment against the Volcano Islands, the 4th and 5th Marine Divisions, along with other Corps units, were loading at Hawaii between December 25 and January 25. Once training and loading were complete, Admiral Turner's Task Force 51 and Admiral Hill's Task Force 53 left Pearl Harbor on January 27, initially heading toward Saipan. By February 12, Admiral Spruance's 5th Fleet had gathered in the Marianas and was prepared to sail for Iwo Jima. Additionally, Admiral Mitscher's Task Force 58 had departed Ulithi to conduct a series of supporting air strikes over and around Tokyo, known as Operation Jamboree. Task Force 58 sortied from Ulithi 10 February and shaped a course eastward of the Marianas and Bonins. On the 12th, the air groups rehearsed with the 3rd Marine Division on Tinian. Two days later the task force fueled at sea from one of Admiral Beary's replenishment groups. Everything possible was done to guard against detection. Measures included radio deception, scouting by Pacific Fleet submarines to dispose of any picket vessels there might be en route, scouting by B-29s and Navy Liberators from the Marianas to clear the air. On the 15th a scouting line of five destroyers ranged ahead of the carriers, and antisubmarine air patrol was set up. At 1900 a high-speed run-in began towards launching positions, where the carriers arrived at dawn 16 February. Thanks to these precautions, and to thick weather most of the way, they arrived undetected. General LeMay's 21st Bomber Command, which was being reinforced by the 313th and 314th Bombardment Wings, would also assist Detachment with several strikes against Japan. Following some unremarkable high-altitude daytime missions in late January, 129 B-29s from the 73rd and 313th Bombardment Wings targeted Kobe on February 3, using a mix of incendiaries and fragmentation bombs. This attack caused significant damage to the urban area and local war production, resulting in the loss of 2 bombers and damage to 35 others. Subsequently, on February 10, a precision strike was launched against Ota's Nakajima aircraft factory, with 84 out of 118 dispatched B-29s successfully bombing the site. However, only 14% of the bombs hit the target, leading to the loss of 12 bombers and damage to 29. Nearly one-third of the factory buildings sustained damage, primarily from the incendiaries combined with high-explosive bombs. Five days later, LeMay dispatched 117 B-29 bombers to target Mitsubishi's engine works in Nagoya. However, an unexpected cold front resulted in only 33 bombers reaching the target area, yielding lackluster results. Meanwhile, after conducting some assault rehearsals, Spruance's amphibious support forces and tractor groups set sail for Iwo Jima on February 14, followed two days later by Turner's main assault convoy. At the same time, the reserve 3rd Marine Division continued loading at Guam, with its 21st Marines departing for Iwo Jima on February 16, followed by the main body of the division the next day. On the morning of February 16, Admiral Blandy's Amphibious Support Force arrived off Iwo Jima and promptly commenced the final preliminary bombardment and minesweeping operations, although inclement weather hindered these efforts. However, the next day, Task Force 52 successfully carried out these missions; beach reconnaissance by UDTs faced heavy mortar fire, resulting in the sinking of one LCI gunboat, damage to eleven others, and casualties of 44 killed and 152 wounded. Despite this, the frogmen encountered no obstacles on the beaches and managed to create accurate maps of the approaches. Meanwhile, by February 16, Mitscher's carriers had quietly moved to a position 60 miles off the coast of Honshu, launching extensive fighter sweeps against airfields in Tokyo Bay and bombing raids on aircraft frame and engine plants in the Tokyo area.  About 100 Japanese fighters attacked Admiral Davison's planes as they crossed the coast and about 40 of them were shot down. American pilots found the Japanese on the whole reluctant to engage; Admiral Mitscher had correctly told his pilots, "He is probably more afraid of you than you are of him". In fact the IJAAF 10th Hiko Shidan immediately ordered an IJAAF night-fighter group and all “second-class” personnel to take cover, while all aircraft not intercepting were ordered to be dispersed, fuel tanks drained, and ammunition unloaded. In contrast, American pilots reported Tokyo antiaircraft fire “the most accurate and intense yet encountered.” By nightfall, Rear-Admiral Matthias Gardner's night-flying carrier group conducted a sweep of night fighters to cover the enemy airfields at dusk. This operation was repeated the following morning, but poor weather ultimately forced the carriers to retreat toward Iwo Jima. Despite this, significant damage was inflicted on aircraft frame and engine facilities, with 10 vessels sunk, including the unfinished escort carrier Yamashio Maru. A total of 531 aircraft were reported destroyed, at the expense of losing 88 planes and damaging two destroyers. On February 18, after the enemy battery camouflage had been obliterated during the previous two days of bombardment. This revealed batteries not previously known to exist, the island's defenses were for the first time properly revealed; and formidable they were indeed. Fortunately for the Americans, the support of UDTs with LCI gunboats had convinced General Kuribayashi that the main landing had started, and to repel it he unmasked batteries that would have caused very heavy casualties on D-day had they not been discovered two days before. This was the only serious mistake made by the Japanese general in his defensive tactics, which won the rueful admiration of his enemies. Blandy opted to focus on the immediate area and flanks of the eastern beaches. Heavy ships moved closer to 2,500 yards to deliver concentrated direct fire on all targets. Consequently, bombardment ships provided continuous direct fire throughout the day, effectively dismantling enemy defenses. However, during the night, the Japanese launched a minor raid that caused significant damage to the destroyer minesweeper Gamble and the destroyer escort Blessman. At 06:00 on February 19, Turner's main force arrived off Iwo Jima and began maneuvering into final positions. Simultaneously, Admiral Rodgers' warships executed the last pre-landing bombardment, coordinated with air strikes from Mitscher's carriers. Between 08:25 and 08:55, as the first wave crossed the line of departure and advanced toward the shore under the protective rocket fire of gunboats, shells fell heavily on Iwo Jima, marking the most intense pre-landing bombardment of World War II. At 08:57, as the leading armored amtracs approached their targets, naval gunfire shifted inland and to the flanks. The LVTs of the first wave touched down on Iwo Jima at 09:02 and began moving forward through the high terraces of soft black volcanic ash, engaging inland targets from the water to support subsequent landings. Three minutes later, the Marines of the 4th and 5th Divisions started landing side by side on the Green, Red, Yellow, and Blue beaches. The assault infantry battalions of the Landing Force received assistance throughout D-Day from all the supporting arms available to the Amphibious Support Force. Carrier pilots of Task Force 58 and the escort carriers of Task Force 52 flew missions all day as airborne observers and spotters maintained constant vigilance over the target. Including pre-H-Hour strikes, 606 support aircraft flew 26 missions on February 19 and dropped 274500 pounds of bombs. These planes also fired 2254 rockets into the island defenses and dropped over a hundred napalm bombs. Air and naval gunfire liaison teams remained in communication with both air and sea supporting units through the hectic hours that followed the beach assault. Naval rifles from 5- to 16-inch caliber pounded enemy positions in response to Marine requests. Gunfire support vessels engaged enemy artillery that covered landing areas from high ground to the north, and concentrated on concealed Japanese mortars that shelled landing areas with deadly effect. The units quickly reorganized and began their advance inland, facing only light resistance, although their progress was hampered by the sandy terrain. General Kuribayashi's forces, however, had been waiting in well-fortified underground positions as planned, emerging only after the bombardment ceased to unleash a barrage of machine-gun, rifle, and mortar fire on the advancing troops. As the initial waves of Marines struggled to advance, congestion along the shore became increasingly critical, while the full force of the Japanese defenders was unleashed shortly after 10:00. By 10:30, elements from all eight assault battalions had landed on the island, successfully bringing ashore about 6,000 men and bulldozers that were clearing paths for tank deployment. On the far left flank, Colonel Harry Liversedge's 28th Marines, having landed on Green Beach, initiated a rapid advance across the half-mile isthmus below Mount Suribachi to isolate this crucial position. The attack unfolded in such a way that some units were delayed while others managed to break through and continue westward despite suffering heavy casualties, ultimately crossing the island while the bypassed enemy was being dealt with. By midday, the reserve 3rd Battalion and tanks landed under heavy fire to join the afternoon assault on Suribachi, but intense enemy fire hindered their progress to the assault positions. Consequently, the 2nd Battalion launched an attack on its own, gaining only 150 yards before retreating to regroup with the 3rd Battalion for the night. At the same time, Colonel Thomas Wornham's 27th Marines had landed on the Red Beaches, making swift progress inland despite increasing casualties and bypassing numerous enemy positions. By 11:30, Company A was moving across the southern end of Airfield No. 1, establishing a presence along the western edge while other units continued to advance past the airfield. The 1st Battalion launched an attack on the airfield with tank support but faced strong enemy resistance, resulting in minimal gains. Meanwhile, the 2nd Battalion pushed westward and reached the cliffs overlooking the western coast. Additionally, the reserve 3rd Battalion landed and began clearing bypassed positions, while the artillery units from the 13th Marines and General Rockey's reserve 26th Marines also arrived in the afternoon as the 27th and 28th Marines solidified their positions. By nightfall, although the 5th Marine Division was still a considerable distance from the O-1 Line, it had established a firm foothold on the island, with Mount Suribachi isolated and portions of the airfield under their control. To the east, General Cates' 4th Marine Division also landed successfully, with Colonel Walter Wensinger's 23rd Marines coming ashore at the Yellow Beaches and Colonel John Lanigan's 25th Marines landing on Blue Beach 1 and the southern part of Blue Beach 2. The two regiments began their advance inland, hindered by intense enemy fire but managing to gain between 400 and 600 yards by midday. As tanks were being deployed, the 3rd Battalion of the 25th Marines moved to the right to clear the remaining area of Beach Blue 2 and encircle the threatening quarry zone. At this stage, as the assault battalions continued their advance, Wensinger and Lanigan deployed their reserve battalions to cover the gaps in their attack lines. With the support of tanks that had finally reached the front, the 23rd Marines advanced towards Airfield No. 1 and successfully captured its outskirts. Meanwhile, the 25th Marines initiated a coordinated assault, with the 3rd Battalion advancing about 200 yards along the beach to secure the problematic quarry, while the other two battalions moved north to seize the high ground to the northwest of the quarry. By the end of the day, Cates had also landed half of the artillery from the 14th Marines, along with his reserve 24th Marines, which began to relieve some of the frontline units from both assault regiments. Although the penetration by the 4th Marine Division was not as extensive as intended, by nightfall, the front lines included the eastern edge of the airfield and extended sufficiently inland from the Blue Beaches to ensure the beachhead could be held successfully. The Marines, forced to advance across open terrain while enduring intense fire from well-concealed positions that were difficult to target, fell significantly short of the O-1 objective. Nonetheless, by the end of the day, six Marine regiments, an equal number of artillery battalions, and two tank battalions had landed and were positioned to defend the narrow beachhead against a potential night counterattack.  Throughout this first day, the situation on the beaches prevented landing of any but the highest priority "hot cargo." This consisted of ammunition, rations, water, and signal equipment brought to the beach in LCVPs and LCMs. Shore party teams, working under extremely adverse conditions without sufficient trucks and other heavy equipment, could do little more than stack the supplies on the beach above the high water mark. LVTs and weasels made trips from the beach dumps inland carrying these supplies to the troops and returned bearing wounded men. The busy amtracs also made nonstop trips from LSTs, ferrying critically needed items direct to Marines on the front lines. Most of the transports and other vessels of the task force retired from the island at nightfall, but some command ships, preloaded LSTs, and hospital LSTs remained behind. Emergency items, especially 81mm mortar ammunition, were brought in during the night, but actually very little unloading was accomplished and many of the wounded spent this night on the beach because they could not be evacuated. Some progress was made cutting exits through the terrace and clearing mines, but enemy fire and the shortage of equipment limited this activity. Despite this, the Japanese did not launch any large-scale assaults, although their mortars and artillery relentlessly bombarded Marine lines along the front throughout the night. Consequently, Allied casualties on this first day totaled 548 killed and 1,755 wounded. On February 20, the goal was for the 28th Marines to take Mount Suribachi while other units advanced north to capture the two airfields. Initially, in the south, after a coordinated air and naval bombardment, Liversedge launched another assault on the volcano but managed to gain only 75 yards by midday. During the forenoon, Marines gained only 50-70 yards. Aircraft and ships pounded Japanese positions and the 3d Battalion, 13th Marines fired mission after mission, but stiff enemy resistance continued, particularly from well-camouflaged pillboxes hidden in the brush to the front of the Marine lines. These emplacements, too close to friendly troops to be engaged by heavy support weapons, could only be silenced by coordinated attacks of assault demolition teams using flamethrowers and explosive charges. Tanks then moved in to provide support, allowing the attack to progress from pillbox to pillbox; however, by the end of the day, the Marines had only advanced 200 difficult yards. Meanwhile, Schmidt's other regiments initiated a coordinated offensive to the north following extensive artillery, naval gunfire, and air support. Despite facing heavy resistance, the 23rd Marines successfully overran most of Airfield No. 1 by noon. Wensinger continued to push his units in the afternoon, but progress was limited as tanks were hindered by minefields and rough terrain. Wornham's 27th Marines pressed their attack on the left flank, overcoming enemy mortar and artillery fire to gain about 800 yards along the coast. In contrast, Lanigan's 25th Marines, affected by friendly fire, made only minimal advances against enemy crossfire from concealed positions. At 1600, friendly planes misdirected their fire to the 25th Marine's area, adding terror to the situation. An air strike consisting of .50-caliber machine-gun strafing, rockets, and bombs fell on troops of Company B of the 24th Marines, which was positioned on top of the quarry some 400 yards inland from the eastern shore. This strike was made without a preliminary "dry-run", and despite the fact that yellow front line panels were displayed prior to and during the aerial attack. The 1st Battalion, 24th Marines suffered five killed and six wounded as a result of this misguided effort. Shortly after the planes left the area, this battalion reported that friendly artillery and naval gunfire was being registered on its lines. Due to the slow progress, Schmidt attempted to land his reserve 21st Marines, but high seas and congested beaches ultimately thwarted these efforts. Nevertheless, the remaining 14th Marines were landed, albeit with significant casualties, and elements of the corps artillery began to come ashore. During the night, there were no counterattacks on Mount Suribachi, but the 4th and 5th Marine Divisions had to fend off some small counterattacks on their front lines. On February 21, following a strike involving 40 aircraft, Liversedge's 28th Marines launched another assault on the volcano. The 1st Battalion on the right swiftly advanced along the west beach to the base of Suribachi, while the 3rd Battalion in the center pushed nearly to the foot of the mountain despite facing heavy resistance. Meanwhile, the 2nd Battalion on the left moved cautiously along the east beach toward the volcano's base, with Company F heading toward Tobiishi Point. At the same time, other regiments continued their offensive towards O-1 after a bombardment from air, artillery, rockets, and naval gunfire. Rockey's units made significant progress, advancing over 1,000 yards, while the 23rd Marines achieved similar gains on the left flank, where slightly sheltered areas allowed for local and limited encirclement, but only advanced 100 yards in the right and center. The 25th Marines maintained steady pressure against the strong enemy defenses, gaining between 50 and 300 yards across the front. Colonel Hartnoll Withers' 21st Marines successfully landed this time; due to heavy casualties in the center, they were assigned to relieve the exhausted 23rd Marines. By nightfall, the Marines had to fend off several local counterattacks and infiltration attempts.  During the night, 50 kamikaze planes targeted Blandy's Task Force 52. They were picked up by the radar of the USS Saratoga, a veteran carrier of the Pacific War, and six fighters were sent to intercept. They shot down two Zeros but the remaining Zeros plowed on through the low lying cloud, two of them trailing smoke, and slammed into the side of the carrier turning the hangers into an inferno. Another solitary attacker smashed into the flight deck leaving a gaping hole 100 yards from the bow. Damage control teams worked wonders and within one hour the fires were under control and the Saratoga was able to recover a few of her planes. Another aircraft, a "Betty" twin engined bomber, tore into the escort carrier USS Bismarck Sea. The decks were full of aircraft and the ensuing explosion caused uncontrollable fires. Abandon ship was sounded and 800 men went over the side. Within a few minutes a huge explosion ripped off the entire stern of the carrier and she rolled 38 over and sank. Three other ships were also damaged: the escort carrier USS Lunga Point was showered with flaming debris as four aircraft were blasted out of the sky; the minesweeper Keokuk was damaged when a "Jill" dive bomber hit her deck; and LST 477 loaded with Sherman tanks received a glancing blow. The Saratoga, with destroyer escort, returned to Pearl Harbor, but by the time the damage was repaired the war was over. The kamikazes had done their work well: 358 men killed, one carrier sunk, and another severely damaged. It was a grim preview of the mayhem they would later cause during the invasion of Okinawa in April. On February 22, amidst a dreary cold rain, Liversedge renewed his assault on Suribachi, where only half of the original garrison remained to oppose the Marine advance. There was no let-up in the weather on Wednesday as Marines of the 28th Regiment, drenched to the skin and bent by the wind, prepared to renew the attack on Suribachi. Fresh supplies of ammunition had been brought to the front during the night, but the Shermans were mired in mud and the Navy declined to supply air support in the appalling weather. It was to be up to the foot soldier with rifle, flamethrower, grenade, and demolition charge to win the day. Colonel Atsuchi still had 800-900 men left and they had no intention of allowing the Americans an easy victory. Major Youamata announced: "We are surrounded by enemy craft of all sizes, shapes and descriptions, enemy shells have smashed at our installations and defenses, their planes bomb and strafe yet we remain strong and defiant. The Americans are beginning to climb the first terraces towards our defenses. Now they shall taste our steel and lead." Throughout the day, the 28th Marines engaged Japanese positions on the lower slopes of the mountain, with the 3rd Battalion making the final push to the base of Suribachi while the other two battalions cleared the coastline to completely encircle the volcano. Simultaneously, Schmidt's northern sweep continued, with the 21st Marines replacing Wensinger's troops, and Colonel Chester Graham's 26th Marines taking over on the 5th Division front. The 26th Marines advanced approximately 400 yards in the center but ultimately had to withdraw as the flanking units could not progress; the 21st Marines began their assault on the formidable defenses of Colonel Ikeda's 145th Regiment in front of Airfield No. 2, managing to advance only about 250 yards on the right; and the 25th Marines were unable to launch an attack on the left due to Withers' lack of significant gains and had to fend off several local Japanese counterattacks. Marine "Howlin' Mad" Smith aboard the USS Auburn was counting the cost. Three days of battle and the Regimental Returns listed 2,517 casualties for the 4th Division and 2,057 for the 5th: 4,574 dead and wounded and the O-1 line had just been reached. Little did he know that as his Marines approached the hills, ravines, canyons, gullies, and cliffs of the north the worst was yet to come. Additionally, as the 4th Division remained stalled, Cates ordered Colonel Walter Jordan's 24th Marines to relieve the weary troops of Lanigan on the right. During the night, most of Task Force 58 departed the area for a second air strike against Tokyo, which significantly limited the availability of aircraft for direct support of ground forces on Iwo Jima. On February 23, the 28th Marines under Liversedge launched their final assault on Suribachi. The 2nd Battalion was tasked with scaling the volcano's heights, while the 1st Battalion advanced south around the mountain's western side. To their surprise, they encountered no enemy fire, and small patrols reached the crater's edge by 09:40. 1st Lieutenant Harold G. Schrier, executive officer of Company E, and a 40-man detachment set out to follow the patrols and occupy the highest point of land on Iwo Jima. The number of live Japanese lurking in caves along this north face was unknown, so flankers were sent out to guard against ambush as Schrier's men clawed their way warily upward. Still there was a mysterious lack of enemy activity, and the only Japanese encountered were the harmless dead. Positions along the rim of the crater were reached at about 10:15, and as Marines scrambled over the lip, the tenseness was eased by action. A small defending force challenged the patrol and a short, hot fight developed. Even while this skirmish was in progress, some of the men located a length of Japanese iron pipe, secured a small American flag to one end, and raised the Stars and Stripes at 10:20. It was an inspiring sight for thousands of Americans on Iwo as the flag waved bravely from the summit. Shortly after the mounting of this flag that measured only 54 inches by 28 inches, an unidentified Marine went aboard LST 779, beached near the base of the volcano, to obtain a larger set of colors. As this second and larger (8 feet by 4 feet 8 inches) flag was being carried up the slopes of Suribachi, photographer Joe Rosenthal, who covered the Iwo operation for the Associated Press, noticed it and instantly started in close pursuit. His efforts that morning resulted in the now famous picture of the second flag raising. Also since it's one of my favorite movies, I wanted to add this passage from the book “Flags of our Fathers” by James Bradley The Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal, had decided the previous night that he wanted to go ashore and witness the final stage of the fight for the mountain. Now, under a stern commitment to take orders from General Holland "Howlin' Mad" Smith, the secretary was churning ashore in the company of the blunt, earthy general. Their boat touched the beach just after the flag went up, and the mood among the high command turned jubilant. Gazing upward, at the red, white, and blue speck, Forrestal remarked to Smith: "Holland, the raising of that flag on Suribachi means a Marine Corps for the next five hundred years". Forrestal was so taken with fervor of the moment that he decided he wanted the Second Battalion's flag flying on Mt. Suribachi as a souvenir. The news of this wish did not sit well with 2nd Battalion Commander Chandler Johnson, whose temperament was every bit as fiery as Howlin Mad's. "To hell with that!" the colonel spat when the message reached him. The flag belonged to the battalion, as far as Johnson was concerned. He decided to secure it as soon as possible, and dispatched his assistant operations officer, Lieutenant Ted Tuttle, to the beach to obtain a replacement flag. As an afterthought, Johnson called after Tuttle: "And make it a bigger one." Following this, the 28th Marines conducted mopping-up operations to eliminate remaining enemy positions and seal off caves at the base of Suribachi. All accessible outer and inner slopes were covered as the Marines annihilated enemy snipers and blasted shut the many cave entrances, sealing in an uncounted number of Japanese. Much observation equipment was found, emphasizing the fact that this had been an excellent point of vantage from which hostile observers directed murderous fire against the entire beachhead. Marine artillerymen, ready and eager to seize this advantage, hastened to move flash-ranging equipment into position. By nightfall, approximately 122 Japanese soldiers were killed while attempting to infiltrate American lines. Over the five-day period, the 28th Marines suffered 895 casualties, while nearly 2,000 Japanese were either killed or trapped in over 1,000 caves in the area. Kuribayashi had not anticipated the loss of this strategically significant location so early in the battle, and the survivors who managed to breach American lines faced severe reprimands upon their return to the north. For the remainder of the month, the 28th Marines focused on clearing out stubborn Japanese forces, reorganizing, and reequipping. Meanwhile, fighting in the north persisted as the three assault regiments advanced toward the O-2 Line. The 26th and 21st Marines faced heavy fire and struggled to make progress, while the 24th Marines advanced along their entire front, gaining up to 300 yards in some areas. On this day, the situation on the beach steadily improved as clearance efforts, construction of exits, and unloading continued, facilitating the arrival of essential ammunition and an additional 25 tanks. On February 24, following extensive air, naval, and artillery preparations, the offensive resumed. However, the initial failure of tanks to join the assault due to minefields and heavy anti-tank fire forced the Marines to advance slowly under intense fire from various sources. In the center, the 3rd Battalion, 21st Marines advanced 800 yards, reaching the north side of the east-west runway of Airfield No. 2, while the 2nd Battalion gradually moved northward around the end of the runway by noon. In the afternoon, as tank support began to arrive, Withers' 3rd Battalion captured the hill north of the airstrip after a fierce hand-to-hand battle. Simultaneously, his 2nd Battalion coordinated with the 26th Marines to seize the elevation beyond the airfield. Graham's troops easily secured the ground in front but had to pause their advance when they found themselves about 400 yards ahead of the 21st Marines. On the right flank, the 24th Marines initially made significant progress alongside Withers' men toward the airfield but were ultimately halted by the strong defenses on Charlie-Dog Ridge.  Running along the southeast edge of the east-west runway of Airfield Number 2 was a ridge known only as "Charlie-Dog Ridge." In prolongation of this ridge, on a lower level to the southeast, was a semicircular rise of ground that formed the "Amphitheater." In this area, Japanese engineers had constructed some of the most formidable defenses on the island. From the south, the approach traversed bare flat ground swept by guns on the ridge. To the east, the route led across a weird series of volcanic outcroppings and draws. It was against these positions that the 24th Marines moved out on D-plus-5. Assault squads then had to methodically clear the ridge, moving from one strongpoint to another, using fire and explosives until Charlie-Dog was secured. While the overall gains for the day were notable by Iwo Jima standards, the casualty figures were also high, with the Marines suffering 1,034 killed and 3,741 wounded during the five-day push to the second airfield. Additionally, the remainder of General Erskine's 3rd Marine Division began landing that day to officially take control of the central area. On February 25, a decision was made to hold back the 26th Marines to allow the 3rd Division to align with them. After another intense bombardment, Colonel Howard Kenyon's 9th Marines advanced through the 21st to continue the assault, but the two-battalion attack only managed to gain a meager 100 yards against Ikeda's determined defenders. Kenyon then deployed his reserve 3rd Battalion in the center, but it also failed to break through. To the east, the 23rd and 24th Marines launched simultaneous attacks, but only the 23rd made significant progress, overrunning the eastern end of the strip and establishing a foothold on the high ground to the north. Meanwhile, in the morning, Mitscher's carriers conducted a second strike on Tokyo. The Japanese sighted 600 US carrier aircraft on February 25, but Rear Admiral “Ted” Sherman reported, “The enemy opposition was only halfhearted and Japanese planes which were not shot down seemed glad to withdraw from the scene … as swiftly and unceremoniously as possible. Even here, over their own capital, the enemy were notably inferior to our naval aviators in aggressiveness, tactics, and determination.” TF-58 aircraft hit the Ota and Koizumi aircraft plants, but increasingly snowy, stormy weather meant Mitscher canceled further Tokyo strikes at 1215hrs. Spruance and Mitscher decided to hit Nagoya instead. En route to Nagoya that night destroyers USS Hazelwood and Murray sank three small Japanese craft. Eventually Mitscher realized TF-58 would not reach launching position on time, and at 0530hrs Spruance and Mitscher canceled the Nagoya strikes and headed south to refuel. TF-58 claimed 47 Japanese planes shot down and 111 destroyed on the ground for a total of 158 Japanese planes destroyed on February 25. Two hangars, one radar station, and two trains were destroyed. About 75 percent of the Ota engine plant's buildings were destroyed and an additional 15 percent heavily damaged. The Koizuma plant had also been heavily hit, and five coastal vessels and several smaller craft sunk, with another 14 vessels damaged. Total US losses were nine aircraft to antiaircraft fire and four to operational causes; four pilots were lost.. After TF-58 aircraft had plastered the Nakajima Ota airframe plant with 45 tons of bombs, February 25 photoreconnaissance revealed Ota to be 60 percent destroyed and 30 percent heavily damaged, although half of this was believed due to B-29s. After the photos TF-58 aircraft dropped another 13 tons on the plant. The Nakajima Koizuma plant was attacked on February 25 with 35 to 40 tons of bombs, with hits concentrated in the center of the plant. Reconnaissance showed 20 percent of the Koizuma roof damaged. The Hitachi–Tachikawa aircraft engine plant was attacked by one Task Group strike, with US airmen reporting “excellent results.” Photographs showed many bomb hits, but smoke made precise damage assessments difficult. Slight damage was also inflicted on the Tachikawa airframe plant. TF-58 planes struck the B-29s' nemesis, the Musashino-Tama aircraft engine plant, with 40 tons of bombs in the center of the Tama complex.  On that day, LeMay also dispatched 231 B-29s to attack Tokyo with incendiaries, with 172 successfully dropping 453.7 tons of bombs, incinerating a square mile of the city. This operation served as the "conclusive" test of the incendiary bombs that the 20th Air Force had requested, with valuable lessons to be learned for future use. The next day, the 26th Marines resumed their attack despite the high ground on the left remaining unclaimed, successfully advancing over 300 yards in the right and center. In the center, the 9th Marines continued their assault with the 1st and 2nd Battalions side by side, but they made no notable gains. On the right flank, the 23rd Marines launched another assault towards Hill 382, facing heavy resistance and managing to advance only about 200 yards. Concurrently, Lanigan's 25th Marines moved through the battered 24th Marines, achieving an advance of approximately 100 yards before encountering intense machine-gun fire from the Amphitheater and Turkey Knob. On February 27, Wonrham's 27th Marines took over from the exhausted 26th and continued to push northward despite rising casualties, successfully overrunning several strongpoints and gaining about 500 yards across the front. In the center, the 9th Marines finally breached the enemy's main defenses towards Hill 199-O and captured Hill Peter, securing Airfield No. 2. Meanwhile, on the right, the 4th Division pressed on against the heavily fortified Japanese positions at the Meatgrinder, advancing only 150 to 200 yards on each flank while struggling to make headway against the Amphitheater and Turkey Knob. In the final attack of the month, the 27th Marines advanced towards Hill 362A, reaching its base but were forced to retreat nearly 100 yards due to Japanese counterattacks and loss of communication. In the center, Withers' 21st Marines moved past the 9th Marines and rapidly advanced north of Airfield No. 2, making significant progress on the right as they swept through Motoyama village and captured the high ground overlooking Airfield No. 3. To the east, Cates continued to send troops into the Meatgrinder, with the 23rd Marines gaining over 200 yards and launching an attack on Hill 382, while the 25th Marines struggled to make any headway against the Amphitheater and Turkey Knob, achieving only minor gains along the coast. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. And thus we have begun one of the most brutal battles of WW2, let alone the Pacific War. It was a controversial decision to invade Iwo Jima and the Americans could never have predicted how the Japanese would change their tactics to turn the entire ordeal into one giant meat grinder.

Jeremy Betz and Coach K.T. Smith answer all of your offseason inquiries on the Steelers Q&A from the Steel Curtain Network and FFSN, the Fans First Sports Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The skies speak of God's glory, but the Scriptures reveal God's glory to us even more as he draws near to us through His Word. Devotionables - Glory Gazing Psalm 19 The PsalmsDevotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church in Louisville, KY.  naobc.org

Saint Michael's hosts a town celebration.A Series in 17 parts, By Blacksheep. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Young Men of the ChoirChoir practice at St. Michael's church was always a lively affair. Yet, for the past year or so, it lacked a full spectrum of harmony, because of the ailing older men who provided base and baritone fullness to many of the arrangements.Recently, it had become a lot harder on Gordon's ears due to a couple of new members. James and Jordan were two eager eighteen-years old, and the twin sons of Debbie the Sunday school teacher. They both hit puberty rather late, having had vocal changes occur at about their 16th birthday. Last month Gordon overheard the two brothers shout cheers for their favorite Premier League team, while getting in their car, after Sunday morning service.The husky, revelry, inspired Gordon to take on the challenge of refining the twins into a huge asset for the church choir. That enthusiasm diminished after their first choir practice."I've got my work cut out, getting that lot into shape ready to sing at the community coronation celebration, next month!" Gordon told Jenna at their weekly 'organ practice.' "They're bloody awful. I know they're Debbie's boys and she's chuffed they're finally getting involved in church life, but I fear they're tone deaf!""Oh dear, that's no good,” Jenna said as she finished playing Crown Him with Many Crowns and then readied herself to play a much more interesting organ.Jenna could feel Gordon rubbing his hardening cock against her arse. It was then that she had an idea."I think I should give those two boys some extra inspiration," she smiled. "Maybe they're not completely tone deaf. With a bit more instruction, their voices might be passable.""Hmm, maybe." Gordon replied, his voice shaking with arousal. "They're coming in tomorrow afternoon for extra instruction and vocal training. I've taught some pretty poor choirboys and choirgirls over the years. Some did vastly improve and go on to have terrific careers in music."Jenna switched off the organ and slid round on the stool. "Do you want me, Gordy?" She asked, darting her tongue between his lips. "Tell me how much, if you do,”"Desperately!" He growled. "My God, you're so fucking hot! Pardon my language, I forgot we're in the church.""You say the loveliest things."Gordon was hornier than usual tonight. He'd recovered from a bad cold and was eager to make up for lost time. Adjusting the open-fronted black robe he always wore in church, he tried furiously to unbuckle his belt and unzip his trousers with one hand while feeling his way to unfasten Jenna's blouse and bra with the other."Oh, organ daddy is eager tonight!" She cooed. "Swell to Great!" she added, referring to one of the organ stops, which in recent months had become a double entendre."I've already swelled," Gordon sighed, as he feasted on her beautiful tits. "Oh Jenna, Daddy needs you so much.""Let me give you a hand, then." She pulled out his thick cock and began stroking it.His shaking hands were soon pulling her soaking wet panties to one side and he wasted no time in sinking his entire cock straight into her hot, wet cunt. When he was completely inside her, he started to slowly pump it in and out, making the strokes longer and faster, banging her back and arse against the organ's manuals, until she was literally screaming with pleasure. Her cries echoed through the empty church."Oh my darling Jenna! Yes!" Gordon groaned. "You're such a good girl! I love fucking your nice, ripe, young cunt! You're going to make me cum hard! I'm going to fill your young body with so much cum! Ah!"Gordon's thick, hot load spurted fast, deep and hard into her."Ahh, that was lovely," she whispered in his ear. "You always pull out all the stops!" Jenna gasped as they recovered from their intense orgasms. Once again, the organist had left her thoroughly entertained. She rested her head on his shoulder and he gently slipped his arms around her."Do you remember the first time we, did it?" Gordon replied, planting soft kisses on her forehead. "Such a long time ago, when you seduced me right here on this organ stool and I hopelessly surrendered to your charms?""Hee hee. How could I forget that? You were powerless to resist. And so shy at first,”"Me? Shy?" Gordon spluttered. "I think not, I was just stunned.""You blushed when you came back from the gents and saw me sat here on the stool!""Organists don't blush! We just, swell." Gordon replied, though his cheeks were already turning several shades of red."Of course," Jenna replied, running her fingers through his thick, silver hair.“And let me fill in for you, tomorrow. I want those fellas to get a vision for how they can add to the choir.”The next day, Jenna was in church alone, practicing a few pieces of music on the organ. Sensing the presence of someone, she stopped and peered over the top of the partition."Oh good. They're here.""Good afternoon you two!" She announced, as James and Jordan headed down the aisle. The two blonde-haired lads looked surprised to see the vicar's wife."Oh, Mrs. Morris," Jordan exclaimed. "Is Gordon here? He asked us to meet him here for some extra choir practice.""Afraid Gordon's needing me to fill in. Hope you're not too disappointed."They both looked at each other. "As if! Gordon's a bit,”"Strict?" Jenna replied. "Yes he is, but he's been organist and choirmaster for a long time and he takes his job very seriously. This coronation concert is really important for the church. The Mayor will be attending. So it's important that we get those voices of yours up to scratch. I think a little bit of extra inspiration is needed."“Some parishioners heard the two of you chanting support for your favorite Premier League football team, a few weeks ago. Is that true?”“Manchester, all the way!” James beamed.“Ah, great team!” Jenna affirmed. “So, do me a favor, please. Can you two repeat that chant you shouted in the car park?”The guys repeated their team Busby Boys chant;Hello, helloWe are the Busby BoysHello, helloWe are the Busby BoysAnd if you are a City fan surrender or you'll dieWe all follow UnitedJenna looked puzzled. “Fellas, I'm having a hard time believing that's what they parishioners were treated to in the car park? Gordon said he heard a very masculine machismo boistering. He heard passion, bravery, smack-talking cockiness. Let's try again, but I'm going to join you, okay? And if either of you hear my voice overpowering your powerful masculine cheers, it is to your shame.”Jordan began the Busby Boys chant again, and the twin baritones filled the high ceilings of the great sanctuary with the richest a-capella Jenna had ever heard since joining the church a year ago.James and Jordan were breathing heavily, and feeling great affirmation of what they have the vocal power to do, in that place of worship.“Bravo!” Jenna cheered, clapping her hands. This is the raw masculinity that our church needs in worship. Gordon can teach you technique and tone, but Manchester United is where you found your masculine identity. Can you bring that with you to practices and performances?”“Uh, sure;” Jordan said. James nodded.Jenna slid herself off the organ stool in such a way as to ensure a flash of her panties. She had put on one of her favorite short black dresses, which was hardly suitable attire for church. She'd borrowed Gordon's black robe. It was unzipped in front, but too big for her and kept slipping off her shoulders."This thing's not my size at all," she muttered. "Best left for Gordon." She removed it, and sensed the two lads eyeing her up as she draped it over a pew. She was wearing a sleeveless black dress that clung in all the right places.Jordan gave a cough. "Um, Mrs. Morris,”"Jenna, please. No need to be so formal. You're not at school now, are you? In fact I shouldn't be calling you choirboys at all, seeing as you've just turned eighteen. I think choirmen would be more suitable, yes?""Yeah!" They both gave nervous grins.“Well I'm a woman,” Jenna explained. “I can tell you, the good women of the church really want the men to be men. Good men, virtuous, but men. Please promise me you'll continue to be the men God created you to be? And you're a perfectly matched pair of baritones. You have no idea how incredible your resonance can be, if you refine your craft.”"Okay, we'll just have an hour going over the pieces that Gordon mentioned. Nothing too intense. How does that sound?""Great, yeah." James said with new enthusiasm."James, is it true that you want to be an organist some day?""That's right. I start uni in September."“Let's get the sheet music Gordon assigned for this week,” Jenna turned away and fiddled with some music books on the shelf at the side of the organ, bending at the waist and swaying a bit more than she needed to."She is well fit!" Jordan whispered to his brother."Wish she'd take over from Gordon permanently! Yeah. I'd do her." James boasted.Jenna smirked to herself, then stood back up and faced James; "My my, aren't you eager?"James froze. Shit, she overheard! "To sing? Oh sure, we wanna get this right." He awkwardly scratched the side of his head.She walked a couple steps over to him, and carelessly dropped one of the music books on the floor. She squatted down in front of him. Gazing up, she could see the outline of a massive cock hardening behind the skinny jeans he was wearing."Oh, not just to sing!" Jenna said, and slowly slid her hands up his thigh. James just stood there, stunned, not knowing what to do or say. Her fingers were soon tracing the outline of his big, thick, long cock through his jeans."Oh my, James!" Jenna said, "You are a big fella."Jordan gawped as the vicar's wife continued caressing his brother's thigh."So; who wants to go first?" Jenna looked to James, then over to Jordan."Umm," they both mumbled."James," Jenna said, massaging his cock through his jeans, "I think someone wants to come out and say hi, don't you?""Uh, yes!" He gasped, blushing.Jenna unfastened his jeans, and pulled them and his boxers down to his knees. She was pleasantly surprised. Definitely a cock worthy of an organist, or future organist! “You truly are an organist!”She aimed his aching erection straight for her open mouth, and didn't stop until she had thrust his whole shaft straight down her warm, wet throat."Whoa, holy shit!" James groaned as Jenna worked her amazing talented, tongue, swirling round and round his youthful cock. A few seconds of her incredible cock-skills was all he could take and he was soon pumping a whole load of hot cum straight down her lovely throat."Fuckin' 'ell!"Jenna greedily swallowed every drop, her unblinking eyes gazing up at him the whole time. She even kept on gently sucking long after she'd already sucked him completely dry."Delicious! What a good man you are, James. I'd say you hit all the right notes there and are perfectly tuned-up! Now how about your brother, pipe?"Jordan didn't hesitate, and soon had his jeans unzipped. Jenna wrapped her fingers around his aching cock. Like his brother, he was generously endowed, and quick to rise to the occasion, however his lack of experience would mean a swift conclusion. Nothing wrong with that, of course. They were young and eager. In time, they could be molded into excellent lovers. Jenna thought about the time she seduced the nervous, virgin curate in the church hall's storeroom. Thanks to her, Josh was now full of confidence and an expert in the bedroom, and he had recently got engaged.Her hand was pumping Jordan's nice, young cock good and hard."Oh God, fuck yes!"She leaned in and licked the head of his cock a few times, before running her tongue up and down the length of it. Her lips kissed and sucked the tip of his cock as her tongue teased it a few times. It twitched uncontrollably. Jenna slid it into her mouth while looking intently into his eyes. Jordan pressed his hips forward and was surprised to see her eagerly take the entire length of his member into her mouth. She grabbed his ass cheeks and pulled him tight. She sucked his shaft hard, making him yell with pleasure. She savored the taste of pre-cum."Oh Jenna! I'm gonna cum!"The vicar's wife began to suck him harder, her tongue sliding over and around his cock as her head as was pushed and pulled back and forth. She sucked Jordan's cock for all it was worth, caressing his balls at the same time.Oh dear God, then it came, what she was waiting for. Jordan's cock erupted in a white creamy fountain; he couldn't stop. He was groaning in ecstasy. Jenna swallowed every drop, gulping it down."Umm, tastes so good! Another yummy load. You really needed to unload, didn't you?Jordan's eyes were now closed and he was breathing heavily.Well, that gets you fully tuned-up, too. I guess we're about done here," Jenna said, standing up and planting a kiss on both their cheeks. "But, we'd better do a bit of singing as well. "I'll give you a few minutes to, compose yourselves, then meet me at the piano. Then we'll sing Onward Christian Soldiers! If you boys can sing as expertly as you shoot your cum, the coronation service will be a massive success!"Polishing the Mayor's Ceremonial MaceIt was Thursday morning and the coronation of King Charles III was by now, tantalizingly close. Over at St Michael's vicarage however, all was not well."What do you mean we can't have a street party outside the church this Sunday?" Reverend Morris exclaimed. "There was no problem last year when we had the Jubilee celebrations."The council official at the end of the line muttered something about it being the Mayor's rule, and hung up."Bloody councils," the vicar moaned. "Full of useless overpaid pen-pushers. The Mayor's coming to visit our church later today too. I've a good mind to raise the issue with him face to face."Jenna raised an eyebrow. "I thought being a mayor was just a ceremonial role. How come he's not letting the church hold a street party?""Some red tape about obstructing the King's Highway or something.""But we're holding a party to honor the new King! Surely rules can be waived just this once?""We could always pretend to be eco protesters," Reverend Morris remarked.Jenna uncrossed her legs and began thinking. "That Mayor needs some persuading. "I can't have Simon's plans ruined by pesky red tape,”Mayor Harrison Buckingham rolled his eyes as he turned into the small car park of St Michael's church hall."Right, time for another tedious hour shaking hands with old ladies and giving fake smiles," the corpulent man muttered as he parked the Jaguar."Keys," his wife replied."What, you're not coming in with me?""Not a chance. You can do this all by yourself, darling. I'm off to the Trafford Centre for a spot of retail therapy.""But, but, Pauline, you're the Mayoress! And how am I going to get home?""And you're the Mayor dear. A small church like this only needs one of us. Our house is five minutes from this church. You could either phone a taxi or do something really daring, such as walk home. Keys."He grumbled to himself but did as she asked."Ah, he's here," Reverend Morris said. Jenna observed the approaching man carefully. Aged about sixty, overweight, and with greying hair that was dominated by a large and very obvious toupee. His gold mayoral chains glinted in the late spring sunshine."Oh, he's a chonky lad." Jenna chuckled."From what I've heard, he's dishonest and drinks a lot." Reverend Morris whispered. "His smile is as fake as that hairpiece he's wearing. Norman Winstanley knows him from the Men's Fellowship meetings, and said he's made a fool of himself several times.""Perfect qualities for someone working on the council then," Jenna smirked."By the way, I heard Norman has moved in with Gladys Wilcox and become her lodger.""There's something kinky going on between those two, I'm certain of it." Jenna said."What? As if. She's in her eighties!" The vicar gasped."Just because there's snow on the roof, doesn't mean the fire's gone out!" Jenna replied. "Although Gladys once confessed to me that she had a bit of a fancy for Gordon. I guess Norman's her second choice as he was willing to do whatever she asked of him."Reverend Morris' eyes widened. "I'm sure he only helps her with D I Y projects and her shopping.""Well I still think there's more to it. Mark my words. I don't think Gladys is the prim old widow you think she is!"Reverend Morris fiddled with his surplice. "Ah, good afternoon Mayor!""Hello there, Vicar!" He shook hands. "Oh and who is this lovely lady? Your daughter I presume?""No, my wife, Jenna.""Ah, my bad. Dearie me, either you're his second wife or you've got a bloody good plastic surgeon! Ha ha ha!"Reverend Morris cringed. "Jenna is my second wife. Lucy and I divorced a year ago."Oh I see. Well don't blame you there, Reverend. Wish I could do the same but She Who Must Be Obeyed won't let me. Ha ha ha!""Where is the Mayoress?" Jenna interrupted."Afraid she's, tested positive for Covid," the Mayor lied, hoping that they hadn't noticed his wife driving away."Oh what a shame," Jenna replied. "So you're all alone? Never mind, I will be glad to show you round our beautiful church.""Can't stand the bloke," Reverend Morris whispered to his wife as they entered the church. "There's tactless and then there's downright offensive. The man's a complete buffoon.""Leave him to me," Jenna said. "I don't mind showing him round.""I'm not leaving you alone with that creep!" Reverend Morris exclaimed."Oh Simon, I can easily handle a chubby chap in gold chains. He wouldn't dare do anything in a church, surely?" She was desperate to get the Mayor alone."In this day and age, can't let your guard down,” He was interrupted by Norman."Sorry to interrupt, Vicar. The builders have arrived to repair the church hall roof. But there's another problem.""Can't this wait, Norman? We're just showing the Mayor round.""Afraid not." He lowered his voice and whispered. "They've discovered asbestos.""What? Oh no! That'll cost a fortune to remove. And I've spent weeks promoting that church roof fundraiser. I'm not running any more quarter marathons!""Yeah. Not good for the church finances, but the hall can't be used until it's all been removed by a specialist company. It can't be done until after the Coronation weekend. I've been speaking to the Treasurer and he wants you to give the green light to get someone in to get it sorted. Could you just pop round and sign some paperwork?""Sure, no problem." He turned to Jenna. Before he could say anything, she stopped him."I'll take care of you-know-who," she smiled, and gave both of them a wink.""Looks like it's just you and me, Mr. Mayor," Jenna said, taking hold of the Mayor's arm. "Do excuse my husband, but I'm afraid he's just found out there's asbestos in the church roof, so that means we can't hold our Coronation party in there." Jenna gave a loud and deliberate sigh as the two walked into the empty church vestry. "And what with the ban on having a street party, I don't know what we're going to do. Maybe you could pull a few strings and allow us to block the road, just this once?"The obese official adjusted his shirt collar. "Mrs. Morris, I appreciate how upsetting that must be for your church, but,”"I'd be ever so grateful, and I'd make it worth your while in ways you could never imagine,”Now he was intrigued. "Oh? Bribery is it? Well I'm anyone's for a bottle of single malt. Or a good box of cigars,”"Oh I'm sure I could run to that, Mr. Mayor. In fact I could give you even more than that if you'd just let me show you.""Oh, you've whetted my appetite already. What could be better than whiskey and cigars?" He was no stranger to taking backhanders."Something like this?" Jenna said, reaching down and squeezing his thigh.The Mayor jolted in surprise. He grinned and gave her a flash of yellow teeth."Are all vicar's wives as welcoming as you?""I truly couldn't say. But I do have a thing for men in suits who wear ceremonial chains," Jenna continued, still massaging his thigh. He was smiling and winking at her and she noticed a bulge growing in the front of his light grey trousers. Her eager eyes kept involuntarily fixing on it."I can show you my ceremonial mace if you'd like," the Mayor whispered, his plump face red with lust. Thank God Pauline chose to go shopping! He thought."Umm, I would love to get my hands on that," Jenna said. "Let's go over to the organ. It's got a nice big stool for you to sit on."He just nodded excitedly. Upon arriving at the organ, the Mayor and put his hands on Jenna's arse and lifted her up. She wrapped her arms around his sweaty neck and wrapped her legs (as best she could) around his fat waist. He pressed his mouth against hers and plunged his tongue in. His breath was scented with whiskey and cigar smoke, and as his actions proved, it had been a long time since he last got laid. Not so much a kiss as being slobbered by a dog, she thought. Jenna broke the kiss and beckoned him to sit on the stool."Ah, want to see my ceremonial mace, you hungry girl?""Definitely, Mr. Mayor!" Jenna said, wiping a gallon of saliva off her face.He unzipped his trousers, revealing white briefs similar to the ones Gordon wore, however that was where the similarity ended. While Gordon's were nice and clean and fresh, the Mayor's underpants bore several piss stains and were definitely overdue for a change, as a ripe smell wafted forth.Dear God, Jenna thought. Who would believe it. The Mayor of our town having such dirty undies! She was a bit disgusted, but still curious to see more.The Mayor pulled out his cock, and before Jenna knew it, she was face to face with his "ceremonial mace." It was small, but fully erect. He was smiling down at her with his discolored teeth."There, what do you think, eh?""Oh it's a lovely one," Jenna replied. My God, compared with my husband or Gordon, he's tiny! Still, good things come in small packages, as they say."Don't be shy dear," the Mayor added, desperate for more.His dick was sweaty and smelly. Wrinkling her nose, Jenna slipped her hand round it and began jacking it, wondering why it smelled so bad."Ah, yes. That's the way, sweetheart. I might have to start attending this church, ah! Open your sweet little mouth, my darling."Jenna slid the foreskin back and noticed a lot of smegma. "Mr. Mayor, someone's a bit of a dirty boy.""That's alright, dear. You can clean it off for me."She turned away but he gripped her head firmly and pulled it back towards his cock. Unable to resist, Jenna's mouth suddenly opened and he slid closer, holding her head steady until he had thrust his whole shaft inside.It didn't take Jenna long to get used to the smell, and as she worked her magic on his modestly-sized cock, she found she quite liked the taste of mayoral cheese, and licked it all up. He moaned in ecstasy.A minute later and the dirty, corrupt fat bastard shot his thick, tangy load of spunk down Jenna's throat."Ah. Praise be to the Lord," the Mayor groaned, when she finally withdrew."There, the mace has been polished," Jenna smiled, zipping him up. "And now, Mr. Mayor, about the street party. I would really appreciate if you could ensure it's able to go ahead. Also, if you could donate a few thousand pounds to aid in the asbestos removal at the church hall,”The Mayor stood up. "A few thousand quid? Now steady on lass, I'm usually good for a bob or two, but there's a cost of living crisis,”"Umm, I understand times are hard, but you see, refusal isn't really an option. This church has concealed security cameras, so it would be a dreadful shame if footage of your ceremonial mace and dirty underpants were to somehow end up on the Internet,”Forgive me Lord for telling a lie whilst in church, she said to herself.The overfed official looked mortified. His lip quivered. Utterly defeated, he shrunk back down on the stool, as timid as a lamb. "Umm, whatever you require, I, I'll make sure you get it."Jenna smiled and kissed his cheek. "Thank you so much Mr. Mayor. You're a true ass, asset to this town. And I really did enjoy polishing your ceremonial mace."At that moment, the church door opened and Reverend Morris came marching down the aisle."Sorry for taking so long," he prattled. "What a nightmare, now that this asbestos has been discovered."Jenna calmly appeared from behind the organ."Hello my love. I've been keeping the Mayor busy by teaching him to play a few notes on the organ. He found it really interesting!"The man in question suddenly appeared. "Asbestos you say, Vicar? Don't worry about that. I'll see that it gets sorted out pronto. We had the same problem in the town hall. Nasty stuff is asbestos. As a Christian, it's my duty to ensure that the good folk of this lovely church have a safe building. So don't worry about the cost, I'll glad pay for any repairs and removal."Reverend Morris looked totally stunned. "Oh, my good heavens, thank you so much, sir!""Oh and do please go ahead and hold your street party, in the street! I'll ensure the numpties at the council don't cause any bother. Well, I really must get going, so much to do, so little time. I'll stop by on Sunday and join the celebrations! Nice to meet you both! Thanks for, showing me round Mrs. .er, Jenna! Good day!" He shook both their hands and hurried out."What an extraordinary kind gesture!" The vicar smiled. "All our problems are solved, just like that. I was wrong about the Mayor. It seems he is a genuine man after all.""Just goes to show, you can't judge someone on hearsay," Jenna replied. "Oh look, his wig fell off!" She picked up the toupee off the floor. "Never mind, he looks better without it, don't you think?"As a fellow balding man, I agree!" Reverend Morris said, slipping his arm round his wife and strolling down the aisle. "However, we must discreetly return it to him."The Coronation celebrations at St. Michael's church were a massive success, and everyone had a fantastic day as the entire town came together. The notoriously unreliable British weather behaved itself for once, and provided warm, sunny conditions. The concert choir sounded fantastic. The addition of two rich baritones brought balance and fullness to the sound. The final arrangement was ‘God Save The King'. When the song ended, Gordon flowed into an improv rhythm. He nodded to the twins and they belched out a boisterous chant of God Save the King. Jenna stood up at her piano and raised her fist while passionately joining the twin's chant. The entire assembly soon joined and for about 30 seconds, it felt loke the rafters were shaking. Then a boisterous applause followed. The vicar then dismissed the concert ."I do love the pomp and splendor," Gordon said as he wolfed down a plateful of sausage rolls."Not to mention the food," Jenna said, pinching his arse when no-one was looking."Have to keep my strength up with you around, the organist replied. And the twins were amazing! I've never seen teenagers improve so rapidly. How did you inspire the fellas?”Jenna beamed; “A lady never tells,” she winked. “I absolutely loved that chant at the end of the program, Gordon. Thanks for adding it. The young people were the loudest.”Are we, you know, having organ practice this Thursday?""Of course we are," she replied, with a wink. Noticing the Mayor arriving, she gave a little smile."I'm glad he stopped wearing that wig!” Jenna whispered to Gordon. She also wondered if he washed his undies?England now has her king, the community has a thriving church, and Jenna continued to play her charming role as the first lady of Saint Michael's.To be continued.By Blacksheep for Literotica.

Getting Weird, with Ashley Good Episode 073 - Naval Gazing and Ugly People This week's show includes random thoughts about ugly people and body dysmorphia. Your gurl gets vulnerable in this one. Get ready for a whole lot of navel gazing and nervous laughter! Also I sound really winded for some reason. Try to ignore that? Hopefully some of you will relate to this show, because that's literally the only reason I record it. *** Songs: Mort Garson - Plantasia Mort Garson - I Know You Pisces (Not I SEE You Pisces -- I misspoke) Thank you @Sighswoon on Instagram for originally sharing these tracks.

Look who popped into the GU Cast studio this week for a chat about where we are going next with radioligand therapy (RLT) for prostate cancer! Professors Oliver Sartor (Mayo Clinic, Rochester) and Michael Hofman (Peter Mac, Melbourne), are two of the world's most pre-eminent experts in the world of RLT for prostate cancer. They were each respectively PIs  on the VISION and TheraP RCTs published in NEJM and Lancet in 2021, and both have many ongoing trials in RLT for prostate cancer. We hear in which stages of prostate cancer LuPSMA is next likely to be approved, and some discussion about exciting trials soon to read out. We also discuss other RLTs including actinium and terbium, combinations, imaging technology for patient selection, AI, and the word "cure" even gets a mention. A very entertaining and exciting discussion with two of the best in the business. Your regular hosts are Professor Declan Murphy and Dr Renu Eapen, Urologists at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne.This is a Themed Podcast supported by our Silver Partners, Novartis. Even better on our YouTube channelLinks:Michael's paper in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine:"The Hierarchy of SUVs: From Diagnostics to Therapeutics and the Pathway to Effective Theranostics"

In this message, we explore the theme "I Pledge Allegiance to the Word," emphasizing the importance of not just hearing God's Word but truly living it out. Drawing from James 1:21-25, we're reminded to create a humble, distraction-free environment where the Word can transform us. Using the analogy of glancing versus gazing into a mirror, we learn the value of deeply engaging with Scripture to reveal our true selves and guide our spiritual growth. Despite opposition from the enemy, we are called to hold fast to God's promises, such as His promise of rest — a spiritual peace available to all who walk in faith and obedience. Join us on this journey of surrender and alignment with God's Word for lasting transformation. ABOUT ZION CHURCH Founded by Pastor Keith Battle, Zion Church exists to help people Experience God, Engage in Connections, Be Equipped through training, and be Empowered to Serve. Find a Zion Church location near you: https://zionchurch.org/locations/ GIVING https://zionchurch.org/give/ FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: www.instagram.com/zionchurch Instagram: www.instagram.com/keithbattle Website: zionchurch.org 00:00 - Welcome 01:45 - Humility and Acceptance of the Word 02:12 - Reverence for the Word's Power 02:48 - Glancing vs. Gazing at the Word 03:31 - Seeing Ourselves in the Word 06:32 - The Promise of Rest 07:48 - Faith and Obedience 08:39 - The Danger of Glancing 09:26 - Time and Focus in the Word 10:26 - Listening and Learning 11:30 - Holding Fast to the Word 12:36 - Distractions and Focus 14:34 - Importance of Seat Selection 15:21 - The Enemy's Tactics 19:13 - Meditating on the Word 19:48 - Revelation and Understanding 21:31 - Consistency in the Word 22:38 - Spiritual Progression 23:13 - Seeking More Knowledge 24:07 - Starting a Relationship with God 26:25 - Signs of Salvation 28:01 - Becoming a Church Member 30:21 - Celebrating Decisions 31:15 - Prayer of Commitment 33:14 - Walking with God

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Spencer and Laurie talk with Benjamin Studebaker about his new book, Legitimacy in Liberal Democracies. Studebaker will give a speech for the Maurin Academy March 3, 2025. Maurin Academy Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/maurinacademy … More Gazing Into the Abyss of Deep Pluralism (w/ Benjamin Studebaker) Dustbowl Diatribes SO 3, Ep. 27

The 654th of a series of weekly radio programmes created by :zoviet*france: First broadcast 18 January 2025 by Resonance 104.4 FM and CJMP 90.1 FM Thanks to the artists included here for their fine work. track list 00 Jon Whitney (Brainwashed) - Intro 01 :zoviet*france: - Shimma 02 99Sounds - Rain-Window-03 03 Andrulian - Adrift in the Storm 04 Giancarlo Toniutti, Deison, Massimo Toniutti - Aghi ad ortografia 05 ZoF/exMAn - XenoHiss 06 Sevenism - Nogi Afck 07 Ábris Gryllus - Parent II ++ Jon Whitney (Brainwashed) - Outro

2025 marks our 4th year providing hopefully useful snippets of wisdom for all things Comms, Corporate Affairs and PR-related. Given the New Year, we decided to look forward and consider who has some of the trickiest Comms challenges in 2025 and given, we're also solution-focused, how we'd go about fixing them. Some of the organisations and subjects in our Little Questions crosshairs this time include HM Government, NATO, Hollywood, UK housebuilders and infrastructure, Net Zero and ESG, car makers and the London Stock Exchange.  This podcast was hosted by: Matt Young has 25 years of experience across media relations, public affairs, regulatory development, employee engagement, brand development, competition and CSR. Group corporate affairs director at Lloyds Banking Group, part of the senior team which rescued the bank and rebuilt its reputation following the financial crisis. Formerly communications director at Santander UK and board member of the BBA. You can get in touch by emailing podcast@apellaadvisors.com and please consider leaving us a review. Andrew Brown; formerly Director of Communications and Public affairs at Ageas Insurance, Andrew has more than ten years' experience leading the corporate affairs functions for global, listed, multifaceted firms across a range of regulated and unregulated sectors. He has considerable experience in issues, crisis and change management as well as reputation sentiment analysis and insight. Formerly Director of Communications at Drax Group plc and Group Corporate Affairs Director at Regus plc. Find out more at apellaadvisors.com. This podcast is produced by The Podcast Coach.

You were shown these things so that you might know that the Lord is God; besides him there is no other. — Deuteronomy 4:35 I live close to Lake Michigan on the South Haven, Michigan, side. It is my favorite go-to place; sometimes I am drawn to Lake Michigan to experience God's greatness. As I stand on the shore, I sing, “How Great Is Our God,” “How Great Thou Art,” “In Christ Alone,” and “He Is Lord.” These songs are like stories that remind me who God is. As I listen to the sounds of big waves crashing on rocks, seagulls squawking, and wind roaring, I proclaim that the God of wonders is holy. He is the Lord of heaven above and earth below. Gazing at the vastness of the sky and the lake, both perfectly blue, I am awestruck and speechless. It seems as if God's finger has blended the line where the lake meets the sky; it appears seamless. God is present and actively working in our lives. He wants us to know that he is the Lord our God—in the past, present, and future. We praise God for letting us know him through his words, nature, works, and especially through his Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Where or when are you drawn into the awesomeness of God and reminded that the Lord is God and there is no other? O God of wonders, I am in awe of you. I praise you that you are God and there is no other. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

What's in store for the industry in 2025? That's the focus of the latest episode of PRWeek's Beyond the Noise podcast.Gazing into their crystal balls this week are Jo Grierson, managing director at MSL UK, and Warren Johnson, founder and CEO of W Communications.Beyond the Noise looks at some of the biggest issues affecting communications and PR. Download the podcast via Apple, Spotify, or on your favourite platform.Speaking to PRWeek UK editor John Harrington, our guests give their takes on major industry trends, including:The agency model and how PR firms are likely to evolveWhat's in store for mergers and acquisitions in PRPR recruitmentWagesThe return to the officeThe future of ESG, DEI and ‘purpose' in the second Trump presidencySocial mediaAI in commsDiversity and inclusion in the industryThe summer of Oasis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spencer and Laurie talk with Benjamin Studebaker about his new book, Legitimacy in Liberal Democracies. Studebaker will give a speech for the Maurin Academy March 3, 2025.

Welcome to this illuminating episode of The George Peterson Podcast! Today, we embark on a transformative journey into the ancient wisdom of Brahma Muhurta, the science of circadian rhythms, and the healing practice of sun gazing.In this solo episode, I delve into the profound connection between the early hours before dawn—known as Brahma Muhurta—and our natural rhythms. I share how this sacred time, described in the Vedas as "the hour of Brahman," offers us an unparalleled opportunity to align with nature and awaken to our highest potential. Together, we explore the intricate dance of the Earth and the sun, the role of Surya as a divine intelligence, and how greeting the sun can unlock our intuition and enhance our well-being.I also uncover the science behind circadian rhythms, explaining how exposure to natural light at sunrise and sunset synchronizes our internal clock, boosts mental clarity, and promotes restorative sleep. You'll learn how sun gazing can activate the pineal gland—often referred to as the "third eye"—and why this practice is vital for balancing our modern, screen-filled lives.Whether you're a yogi, a seeker of ancient wisdom, or someone looking to improve your health and energy levels, this episode will inspire you to embrace the power of the sun and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.

Title: Terrifier 3 [Wikipedia] [IMDb] Director: Damien Leone Producer: Phil Falcone Writer: Damien Leone Stars: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam, Samantha Scaffidi Release date: October 11, 2024 PROMO: Cinema Recall (@cinema_recall) COLLAB: Abyss Gazing: A Horror Podcast (@VctmsAndVillans) SHOWNOTES: Happy Holidays from Collateral Cinema and Abyss Gazing! This year, we are diving into the latest installment of Damien Leone's Terrifier franchise, which incidentally is a Christmas movie: Terrifer 3! Having covered both prior feature films on our show this season, we're excited to team up with our friends from the Victims and Villains podcast network this Christmas to discuss Art the Clown's newest exploits. Does it measure up to the hype? Find out now, and also go check out Abyss Gazing's side of the crossover this year, where we joined them to talk Black Christmas (1974). Collateral Cinema is on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, Threads, and Twitter, and is on Goodpods, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, Google Podcasts, YouTube, iHeart, and wherever else you get your podcasts! Also, check out Collateral Let's Play! on our YouTube channel. You can listen to Abyss Gazing: A Horror Podcast at victimsandvillains.net, Apple Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts. You can also check out the Victims and Villains network for more podcast content and mental health resources at their website. If you or someone you know is reading this right now and struggling with suicide, depression, addiction, or self-harm—please reach out—comment, message, or tweet at them. Go to victimsandvillains.net/hope for more resources. Call the suicide lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Text "HELP" to 741-741. There is hope and you DO have so much value and worth! Collateral Media merch is now available on TeePublic! Check out everything from shirts and hats, to stickers and even tapestries, at our affiliate link now: teepublic.com/stores/collateral-media-group (Collateral Cinema is a Collateral Media Podcast. Intro song is a license-free beat. All music and movie clips are owned by their respective creators and are used for educational purposes only. Please don't sue us; we're poor!)

Steve Cavendish and Braden Gall talk Nashville sports, media and business. Netflix has announced its SEC documentary timeline and the opt-outs will benefit Tennessee in a big way. But who has final edit? We also talk college football playoff tickets. How worried should consumers be about Donald Trump's settlement with ABC over defamation? And then we recount the top 10 most listened to episodes of the year - aka, Naval Gazing 2024. Brought to you by: 8th and Roast Coffee Co. The beans are better. Sign up to Lower Broad Hockey here.

Eureka The Pentecostal Church - Sunday Morning Service - 12/08/2024"Christ Gazing"Pastor Jonathon McDonald Connect with us! Instagram: instagram.com/eurekachurch Facebook: Eureka The Pentecostal Church Youtube: youtube.com/c/EurekaThePentecostalChurch Website: eureka.churchListen/Download this sermon on Spotify or Apple Podcasts - Eureka the Pentecostal Church

Jack Bauer gives Nina Myers more than expected.Based on a post by Talking Bowl. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories.Nina Myers stared at Jack Bauer, a mixture of fear and vulnerability in her eyes. Just moments before, Ed, who had been sent along with Jack to help guard her on the truck ride to the airport, had slumped over unconscious into Jack's lap, the victim of a ‘mickey', which the rogue CTU agent had slipped into his bottled water. It had taken her tired mind, already rattled by Jack's previous violent interrogations back at HQ, a few minutes to process the full implication of the look on his face. To see the faintest trace of a smirk that played across his lips, and realize that he had been in the process of outwitting her, even as she had thought she was doing the same to him. Her previous taunts faded from her lips, and she stared at him in fear, dry-mouthed, her heart thumping in anticipation.For what seemed like an eternity, they did not speak. The only noise came from the dull roar of the engine, the rattle of the truck as it jostled down the road, the almost imperceptible sound of their breathing, and Nina's heartbeat, which, although only she could hear it, was almost deafening to her ears. Finally, she licked her lips, swallowed hard, and screwing up her bravado, said:"You got me, Jack." The words came out in a husky croak. He did not speak or move. Clearing her throat and holding her head a little higher, she tried again."What are you going to do to me now, Jack? Kill me?""I would never give you the satisfaction," he hissed. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, he started to move towards her, bracing himself against the pitch and roll of the vehicle."What, then?" Bolder still. "Beat the shit out of me? Leave me unconscious for the guards to find, and then say I slipped and fell?"Or is it a mind-fuck;" (she caressed the word fuck, trying to make him savor it) "you want? Interrogate me a little more, try to make me piss myself, and hope I'll end up blubbering everything to you? Even you can't be that naïve," Nina sneered. "Don't forget, Jack, I'm as good at this as you are."Jack smirked. "Not quite." He was halfway towards her now. "Don't forget who's in chains here.""And why is that, Jack? Because I got away with something you never thought I could? Because I did it right under your nose and you never had a goddamn clue?" Fire glinted in her eyes. "Because you had the chance to kill me, but you just didn't have the balls to; "Nina's words turned into a yelp as Jack's hand shot out from his arm, grabbing her by the throat. The momentum of his grasp was so great that it lifted Nina out of her seat, until she was standing tilted back against the honeycombed metal walls of the truck. He rammed his torso against hers, pinning her in place, and put his face so close to hers that she could practically taste his hot breath with her tongue. The musky scent of his skin filled her nostrils, bringing back lewd memories despite the pain at her throat. Voiceless, she croaked out;"Jack; let go; ""Beg me," he snarled."What?""Beg me, Nina.""; please; ""Please what?"She stared at him blankly."Please what!" He tightened his grip, making her choke anew. "You may not work for me anymore, Nina, but you are still under my command! And as long as you are under my command! You will do! As I fucking say!" His face was flushed red, his breast heaving with exertion. "Now Please, fucking what?""Please; Sir; ""What?" His voice suddenly dropped in volume to a husky purr, and he put his ear up to her mouth. "What was that? Speak up, I can't hear you."Nina tried to speak, but could only make choking noises. Realizing he had made it impossible for her to carry out his orders, Jack loosened his grip on her throat, ever so slightly. Trying again, Nina gasped out:"Please; sir; will you let go of my throat?"Without a word, Jack let go of Nina's throat, but kept his body pinned against hers. Nina gasped as the air rushed back into her lungs. Her breathing was still slightly constricted from the pressure of Jack's weight against her ribs and diaphragm, but at least she no longer felt as if she were drowning for lack of air.Silence again, more charged than before. Jack's mouth by her ear, hers by his. Breathing in tandem, as much out of force of habit as out of comfort in their close quarters. Nina became aware of the fact that Jack's pelvis was pressed up against hers. Was it intentional? You never could tell, with Jack."So you're not going to kill me, Jack."He said nothing."And you're not going to beat me up, either."No response. She thought she could read agreement on his face, but wasn't sure."Then what are you going to do to me?" A slight note of fear in her voice, more than she would have liked, which she tried immediately to push away.He turned his face and looked her dead in the eye. His left hand crept around the back of her head, cupping it for support. He leaned in closer and, a trace of the arrogant smirk still on his lips, hissed at her:"Anything. I. Want."Nina knew it was true. He could do anything at all to her, and would most likely get away with it. Even if he were found out, who at CTU would defend her at this point? It took all her inner steel to avoid breaking down in tears at the thought.Jack's face drew even closer to Nina's. His breath felt warm on her face, yet his eyes still glittered with hatred. For a second, she thought he might strike her. Bite her. Spit in her face.Instead, to her surprise, she felt Jack's lips burning on hers. His tongue battered its way into her mouth as he kissed her violently. This time, there was lust mixed in with his anger, and the mixture sent a shiver through Nina in spite of herself. Almost instantaneously, she was furious both at him for taking advantage of her like this, and at herself for – she had to admit it – liking it.There was no doubt Jack was enjoying it too, in his own perverse way – the steadily fattening bulge in his jeans, burning against Nina's thigh, was proof enough of that. Not much blood going to his head right now, thought Nina. Seeing a chance to regain her edge in the situation, she kissed him back with gusto, trying to turn him on as much as possible. Just give him a nice big hard-on, and pretty soon he'd be weak enough to ease up on her. Ask her if the shackles were hurting her. Reach for the key and undo her, and just when he thought she wouldn't try to get away –All of a sudden, Nina felt Jack simultaneously disengage from her mouth and crotch. The hand that had been resting at the base of her skull only moments before yanked her head back by the roots of her hair, so far that she could barely breathe. Jack stood up, by now gasping for breath. His face was red; his erection strained the seams of the well-worn denim clinging to his lower body. Yet he seemed completely in control, both of himself and of her. Nina's mouth and pelvis burned at the withdrawal of his venomous lust, at the same time as her mind cried out in fury at being foiled by his ever-calculating mind."You thought you'd get off that easy, you piece of shit?" Jack shook his head in mock amazement. He leaned his face back in to hers and hissed:"I fucking own you. Do you understand me, you little cunt?"“Yes.""Yes what, ass rag?""Sir! Yes sir!" Nina shouted. Her humiliation fueled her arousal.Jack let go of her hair, shoving her head forward so hard that Nina was sure her neck was broken. She saw him kneel on the floor and go through Ed's pockets, searching for the key to the cuffs that bound her wrists and ankles together. She willed her facial muscles to remain neutral, but permitted herself an inward smile of triumph. Santa Barbara all over again. She had him by the balls.Jack found the keys, tried several of them before finding the right one, and undid the cuff attached to her broad leather belt and the one that connected her ankles to her wrists via a narrow metal chain. He disengaged those bonds completely and tossed them on the floor. She shifted slightly, anticipating the release of her hands and feet, but to her surprise, he left those cuffs on, throwing the keys over his shoulder, where they bounced off of Ed's inert body and skidded across the floor.Gingerly bracing his body against the truck's motion, Jack walked back towards Nina, the small smirk back on his lips. His left hand grabbed the chains binding her wrists and shoved them behind her neck, so that her hands were practically behind her head. Quick as a flash, she saw his right hand reach for something, heard the well-oiled flick of a blade popping out of its sheath, and before she knew it, Jack had a knife at her throat. MicroTek Halo, she registered."Now," he said, all business despite his barely concealed rage. "If you try to pull any more shit on me, or disobey me in any way, I will hurt you in ways you could only imagine. You'll fucking pray for death before I'm through with you. Understood?""Yes, sir.""Good," he said. He gently caressed her cheek with the butt of the knife, a twisted mockery of a tender lover's gesture. "Now lean back so that your head is touching the wall. Slowly."Trembling, she complied. As she did so, she noticed that her lower body tilted out over the seating bank, pelvis forward, legs splayed, as though she were presenting herself to him. Jack had planned it that way, no doubt. How like him, she thought bitterly.His left hand released her wrists, then traveled down to the front of her drab prison uniform. The hand holding the knife never left her throat. One by one, he undid the buttons, his thumb and forefinger working to pop each button gently yet firmly out of its hole. When he reached the buckle on her belt, he paused, as though contemplating his next move. Still acting one-handed, he loosened the tooth of the buckle from its leather hole so that the belt hung slack around her waist, then pulled it slowly down her thighs, almost to her knees."Put your knees together."She did so, wordlessly. He cinched the belt tightly around her legs, so that her loins touched each other. He chuckled softly to himself."Just think. If you'd kept your knees together before, none of this would have happened.""Jack; " she began to protest, forgetting herself."Shut up." He barely raised his voice, but she knew he meant it. She obeyed, but her eyes glittered with anger and frustration.Jack continued his slow, methodical unbuttoning of her uniform top, until he had undone the very last button. Then, in one supple motion, he yanked down her uniform bottom around the belt, exposing her plain white cotton panties. He then stood back up, replaced the point of the blade where it had been before, and pushed the fabric of the top far enough off her shoulders to expose the straps of the cheap standard-issue bra they had permitted her in prison. He smirked again, reading her mind – he knew how much she liked nice underwear, and how much it humiliated her to have to wear cheap, unflattering crap. Before she could even gasp in shock, he had cut both the straps with the knife, so that the bra hung loosely around her tits. He pulled down the fabric on each cup, one at a time, so that each nipple was just barely exposed. Nina's nipples had been fully soft in the steamy heat of the truck, but as Jack knowingly circled his thumb around her right one, they both watched it harden at his touch."Is this what you're going to do to me, Jack?" Nina spat in a low voice. "Tear my clothes off and fuck me in the back of this truck?"Jack said nothing. The hand with the knife slipped around behind her neck until his hand rested between her neck and shoulder, as though embracing her, but with the blade still pointed where it could hurt her if need be. His other thumb left her right nipple and started massaging her left one. He gazed directly at it, both pleased and fascinated by the effect he was having on her body in spite of itself. Nina's face flushed, but she continued:"How do you think you're going to explain yourself when we get to the airport and the guards find me like this? Do you think they're going to just hand you your Get Out of Jail Free card and say, 'Okay, Jack, just don't let it happen again?' Even you can't be that crazy."At this, Jack pinched her nipple – hard – between his thumb and forefinger. Nina yelped involuntarily, then held back another gasp as he continued to roll it around in his grasp, firmly yet – could it be? – gently. He continued to switch off, from left tit to right and back again, until he was sure both nipples were painfully hard, and then smiled again ever so slightly in satisfaction. Nina was almost wincing at the effects of her own arousal, but she somehow managed to hold herself in check.He had another command for her:"Hold still."Nina's throat was too dry to respond. She could only gaze dumbly as she watched the arm holding the Halo slip back from around her neck, slip up under her bra with the blade facing outward, and position itself right at the junction of the bra's two soft cups. With a sudden burst of force, Jack grabbed the bra with his other hand, braced against her for support, and cut Nina's bra open. A small, animal sound escaped from the captive woman's throat as the bra's support lapsed and her breasts fell to their sides. Even before, when she and Jack had been lovers and she had shown herself naked in front of him for the first time, she had never felt this exposed. Or this turned on.And then Jack's head was bent, he was kneeling, his firm hot mouth burning on her nipple, the knifeless palm grabbing her other tit and kneading it for all it was worth. Nina closed her eyes and felt her heart hammer against her ribcage. Rage in her mind, fear in her heart, heat in her cunt."Santa Barbara was business, Jack." She tried to sound cold and calculating, but her rising libido betrayed her. "I needed you to trust me. I needed you on my side. If you think you're reawakening an old flame or something, you're a bigger fool than I though. I saw my chance and I took it. End of story."Jack pulled his face away from her nipple and nuzzled between her breasts. He worked his way down slowly, tortuously, towards her stomach, his lips and teeth moving in stinging, sucking bites that Nina was sure would leave readily visible marks. Marks the guards would see, that would make them ask questions, that would – oh, GOD, his tongue was in her navel, he was working it around, hot DAMN that man was good with his mouth; shit, oh, shit, oh, shit, he was moving lower, lower still, but how the hell would he get her panties off with this fucking belt around her thighs, what was he, crazy?Again, the knife made an appearance. Again, Jack was grasping some piece of clothing on her body, trying to rip it off of her. First one side, then the other, along both seams of those hideous fucking granny panties that made her look like a friggin' hippo."I'll just rid you of those," he said, knowingly. The bastard was actually grinning. Then, as though performing a parlor trick, he whipped out her shredded panties from under her uniform, and Nina again yelped as the fabric stung her swollen clit and aching lips. He was enjoying this. Cocksucker."I don't hate you, you know, Jack." Trying to retain at least a shred of composure. "I didn't love you, either. None of this was ever personal."His mouth continued its searing path down her stomach, pausing as he lowered himself further still to give the tip of his turned-up nose a chance to nuzzle her dark pubic thatch."Oh, sure, I liked you all right. You were a decent guy. A good agent. An above-average fuck, when you got the chance. But no fuck is worth jeopardizing – AH!"Jack had nipped the sensitive skin just above her clitoral hood. He hadn't bit very hard, but the area was so engorged with the blood of Nina's hotly stoked lust that her eyes watered with pain. And then she could feel his hot breath on her, his mouth so close, but still not touching. Waiting. Teasing. Bastard. His tongue flicking, ever so lightly, over the painfully erect surface area of her sex, teasing her some more. Come on, motherfucker, get it over with.And then he was done teasing her, his mouth, his glorious mouth was on her, encircling her, inside her, licking and sucking her lips, her hood, her clit, fucking her with his tongue, tasting her wet hot slippery salty arousal. The man gave dynamite head, and he knew it, and she remembered it now more than ever. And as he got more and more into it, he yanked the belt down around her ankles and grabbed her by the hips and slammed her ass down on the seat – Nina was moaning steadily by now, no longer able to control herself – and spread her legs as far apart as they would go and oh my GOD he just kept eating her and eating her and eating her and –What? Why did he just -Jack stopped. He pulled his face away from her and squatted back on his heels, his hands still braced against her inner thighs. He had a wicked glint in his eyes and Nina's slick, clear juices all over his mouth and chin. She could feel his fingertips tickling the soft, sensitive skin of her inner thighs, just barely touching, but enough to let her know he was doing it deliberately. His tongue darted out lasciviously and licked some of it off his face, savoring the taste when he put his tongue back in his mouth."Want some?" He grinned, arose slightly, and leaned in for another kiss.Nina reared back reflexively, again banging her head on the wall, but Jack was too quick for her, and his tongue darted between her lips before she could muster the strength to force him out. It really didn't taste that bad, she thought. A slight marine tang, but nothing to gag over. It was more the way Jack was forcing it upon her, violating her mouth with his, that made her want to bite him, force him out, tell him to fuck himself.Then, as suddenly as he had begun, he stopped. He reached behind her for her mangled bra, which had fallen on the seat behind her. Then he had a command:"Stand up."Nina obeyed as best she could, bracing herself against the Humvee's momentum and willing strength into her quivering knees. Jack bound the bra around her eyes, whipping her around to tie it in the back so that it could serve as a makeshift blindfold. Then he turned her back around, this time more slowly but still firmly. Another command:"On your knees."Nina had a pretty good idea of what was coming next. Despite her fear, she allowed herself a mental roll of the eyes at Jack's stupidity. I'm supposed to give him a blowjob sight unseen with no hands? What is he, high?Jack must have sensed her insubordination, because she felt the knife press against her throat again. "Nina, this morning I cut a man's head off with a hacksaw. My wife is dead, my daughter isn't talking to me, and the people I work for would like nothing better than for me to fuck off and die. I have absolutely nothing left to lose."Now you're going to open your mouth – wide – and pull your lips over your teeth, and you're going to take what I give you the way I tell you to, and if you so much as think of pulling any shit with me, I swear to Christ I will cut you from ear to ear. Are we clear?""Y; yes sir; ""Good," said Jack, "Good." He was breathing heavily again. She heard a zipper, the rustle of fabric, the motion of skin against skin. She felt a hand, the one holding the knife, slip behind her head. The other hand, she knew, was where Jack intended her mouth to be shortly; he was busily making himself as hard as possible. Then he moved closer, and she felt the burning blunt head of his massive cock brush against her face. She had to restrain herself from gasping at the incredible heat he was giving off, as though his lust were being stoked by some huge internal furnace."Now open your mouth like I told you. Nice and slow." Again Nina could not help but obey, sliding her lips over her teeth as he had requested and opening her mouth as wide as she could.And then that massive head – which, she remembered, must be a deep purple color by now – found its way into her mouth, guided there by its master's hand. Although Nina remembered all too well how huge Jack was, her mouth still had trouble adjusting to his girth at first, and when he pushed it deeper into her mouth she had to restrain herself from gagging."Suck it," he commanded.Finally, Nina managed to get her reflexes under control, and began to work her tongue around the sensitive head, just the way she remembered Jack liked it. She burrowed her tongue into the tip and felt him stiffen and gasp involuntarily, then swirled it around the corona and heard a low moan resonate in his chest cavity. Flattening her tongue against the frenulum – Jack was practically growling in pleasure now – she took as much of him into her mouth as she could, then pulled back slightly and began sucking him in earnest. She could feel his fingers stroking her hair – a surprisingly tender gesture, she thought, for a man getting his cock sucked by the woman who killed his wife. She thought, again, of how relieved he would be after he came. How relaxed. How vulnerable and open to suggestion. Surely, Nina said to herself, he would have mercy on her. The stupid shit. She took a deep breath through her nose and sucked him even harder.Before long, Jack lost patience with being acted upon and decided to take matters into his own hands. Nina felt his legs move apart and bend slightly, so that he was straddling her head. His hand pushed her head even further down onto his cock as he began to fuck her mouth in earnest. She could feel him banging against the back of her throat, each pitch and roll of the Humvee deepening his thrusts."You like that, don't you, bitch?" Jack growled. "You wish you could see it right now, don't you? That you could touch it? Stroke it?" His thrusting grew harder and faster, and she could tell he was on the verge of coming. "That you could suck it dry? Swallow; every; drop?"And then all of a sudden, right before she thought he would shoot his load, Jack withdrew roughly from Nina's mouth and pushed her head away. Both of them were breathing raggedly. Nina felt disoriented from the blindfold, and her throat ached from the impact of the mouth-fucking she had just sustained. She had no idea what Jack would do to her next, and at this point it no longer mattered to her. Whatever it was, she was sure nothing could be more humiliating than –OUCH!Daylight. Nina squinted at the light, the blindfold abruptly removed from her eyes. The bridge of her nose stung where the bra hooks had chafed against her skin. She could not see or feel Jack, but sensed his presence behind her. Heard his breathing, calmer than before, but still elevated."You've been very good, Nina," Jack said, somehow more gently than before. "You've done as I said. You've given me exactly what I want. And now I'm going to give you exactly what you want.""What's that, sir?" Nina said, although she had a pretty good idea."Get on your hands and knees."Nina did so, unable to prevent a small moan of anticipation from escaping her lips. She knew what was coming now.During their weekend in Santa Barbara, Nina had begged Jack repeatedly to fuck her in the ass. He had done everything else – fucked her mouth, fingered her g-spot until she gushed all over him, fucked her cunt from every angle and position the two of them could think up, gone down on her until she lost her voice for screaming in ecstasy – but when she asked him to do that, he demurred, saying they could do it "some time later." And by the time it was later, he had already decided to go back to Teri, and there was nothing she could do about it. What had changed his mind now, she wondered?Jack unfastened the belt from Nina's ankles and tossed it aside. She heard cloth brush against skin as he took off his jacket and shirt, laying them carefully on the seat. She tried to turn her head around, the better to get a look at his glorious chest and arms, but he yanked her head back to its original position. That was the worst part of all this, Nina thought to herself – being denied the sight of this beautiful man even as he brought her to new heights in the midst of her degradation. It was like being in a state of permanent solar eclipse.Nina felt Jack kneel behind her, felt his hand move against her skin, stroking her ass, the cold metal of the knife contrasting with the warmth of his hand. The gesture was gentle but possessive, as though he were claiming her as his property. She felt the chain that she had noticed around his neck dangling against her back, a small, thick metal circle attached to the end. She wondered what it was, but dared not ask him."Do you want this, Nina?""Yes.""What did you say?""Yes, sir.""Louder, bitch.""Sir! Yes sir! Sir, this bitch would like you to fuck her in the ass! With your big hard cock! Sir!” She saw his other hand come in front of her field of vision, the palm at her mouth. "Spit."She spat. He rubbed the saliva all in and around her asshole, making sure it got in there. She then heard him spit on his own hand and heard the wet sound against his own flesh, making sure he was well-lubed. Then she heard him remove the chain from his neck and dangled it in front of her face. It was a ring. A simple, metal band."Do you know what this is, Nina?""A ring.""What ring.""Your wedding ring, Jack. Sir.""Do you know what I'm going to do with it?""No, sir.""I'm going to make you taste it, you worthless piece of ass," Jack spat. "I want you to taste it while I'm screwing you in your filthy asshole, so that you can feel exactly what I've lost. Do you want that, Nina?"What could she possibly lose by being frank now? "No, sir."Jack chuckled bitterly. "Good." He slipped the loop of the chain around her neck. "Now open up."Nina opened her mouth to receive the ring, then gasped in pain as he twisted the chain, yanking it tightly so that it cut into her mouth and her head was lifted back into an upright position. Then, with his other hand, he slowly, carefully spread her legs and guided his massive throbbing cock into her ass.Nina gasped again and moaned, pain mixed in with pleasure as she felt his hugeness sink deeper and deeper within her. He began to move in and out, slowly at first, with long, deep strokes; he was so long that there was absolutely no slippage. He was down on one knee, the other one propped up for leverage. The hand not holding the chain grabbed her by the hip, pulling her back towards him for maximum penetration. The knife, she noticed, was no longer in his hand. When had he put it down?Jack's strokes got steadily faster. She felt his hand tremble as he held the chain, making her own head bobble slightly. Her tits rocked in motion with the truck; the sensation only enhanced the ones she was feeling below the waist. She tried to move her head down so that she could breathe more easily, but the force in Jack's hand never wavered. The metal tasted cold and sweet in Nina's mouth, a slight salty tinge the only evidence it had been nestled against Jack's skin in this heat.Jack was beyond words. He let out an animal noise that sounded like something between a moan and a growl. He began to drill her ass in earnest, pumping into her unmercifully. She could feel the metal chain starting to cut into the corners of her mouth, and almost gagged on the ring nestled like a horse's bit in her mouth. The hand holding her hip slipped between her legs and started dithering her clit, rubbing it so expertly that an involuntary shudder went through her body, drawing her back against Jack's pelvis.God, the pumping. The pain. The hugeness. The pleasure. The stroking. Jack finally giving her exactly what she wanted, the taste of his defeat, his lowest hour, sitting like a curse between her teeth. And then he yanked her head almost all the way back, at the same time as his hand worked her clit even harder than before, and she screamed and shook and came, over and over, and the roar in her head was so loud that it almost drowned out the sound of Jack's roar as he reached his own climax, pumping load after load of hot, steaming come deep inside her, until he finally collapsed on top of her, almost flattening her on the ground. His hands dropped to the side, his head to the space between her neck and shoulder. She felt his chest hair, wet with sweat, pressing against her back, felt his heart beating madly – and then, all of a sudden, felt his chest erupt with uncontrollable shaking and realized he was sobbing, intoning his wife's name under his breath: "Teri, Teri, Teri, oh my God, Teri, I'm so sorry, sweetheart, Teri, I'm so sorry, Teri, Teri, Teri; "Nina had no idea what to say. She wasn't sorry she had killed Teri – that had been strictly business – but she had no idea how to react to seeing a tough, hard man like Jack Bauer breaking down in tears, weeping like an infant. She felt the hot salt water in little streams down her shoulder, running down her torso until the tears dropped off her nipples onto the floor of the Humvee. He remained like that, crying helplessly, repeating Teri, Teri, Teri, as though saying her name would bring her back like Eurydice from the gates of Hades.The truck lurched to a halt. Jack, pulling himself together almost as instantaneously as he had broken down, put the ring's chain back around his neck, then pulled on his shirt and jacket, as well as a pair of sunglasses from his jacket pocket. Instantly the tough, unreachable CTU agent again. He wiped roughly under his eyes and nose, picked up his things, and went to the exit.Gazing at Nina, he saw a disheveled wreck of a woman, shirt open, undergarments in shreds, pants down. She could feel a stream of semen leaking out of her asshole and down her thigh. She returned Jack's gaze, an unreadable look in her eyes. He squatted for a second, picked up a half-empty bottle of water, screwed on the top, and threw it at her, bouncing it off her chest. He opened the door to exit the truck. Turning back to look at her one last time, he said, without an ounce of emotion in his voice:"Clean yourself up."And then he was gone.By Talking Bowl for Literotica.

Hey beautiful souls,Issa ‘nother fire episode and this time we're joined by the wonderful Kiana founder and creator of souley gazing a digital marketing agency for creators of color (or BIPOC)Finding solo ways to explore penetrationManifesting meeting our celebrity crushes Showing up & showing out in the sex tech spaceThe needs for representation for black folk in sex tech and entertainment Finding yourself before you dive into businessThe difference between abstinence and celibacy Navigating virginity as an adult Figuring out how to enjoy penetration Using condoms when giving headKianas masturbation before a date tipTips on how to be compassionate with ourselvesIdentifying red flags (and not ignoring them)Keep up with Kiana and all things souley gazing:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/souleygazing/Website -https://souleygazing.agency/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/96661473/admin/dashboard/BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/souleygazing.bsky.socialWANT MORE CONTENT?! Head to my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheLoveAtiyaExperience SIGN UP FOR 15% OFF PLEASURE PRODUCTS FROM Ethereal X | The Self Pleasure Shop: https://www.loveatiya.com/etherealxWant to share a fun sex story or pick the topic for our next episode? Submit your questions & stories to theloveatiyaexperience@gmail.com Ethereal By Love Atiya | Vegan Handmade Hair & Skin Care: https://www.loveatiya.com/etherealSex Education Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loveatiya/Sex Education TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iloveatiya?Sex Positive Podcast: https://theloveatiyaexperience.buzzsprout.comYouTube: iloveatiya https://www.youtube.com/@iloveatiya/videos Support the show

It's another team sesh! This time, Michelle and sōsh's creative lead Maggie Golden share their predictions for 2025 about business, marketing, and life! Michelle and Maggie discuss the biggest takeaways from 2024, and dust off the crystal ball to get a glimpse at what 2025 has in store. They also share their guesses for the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year! Whether you're tickled pink or feeling a little blue, we hope Social Soup can serve as a pick-me-up today! Savoring our flavors? Please share Social Soup and subscribe—that helps us simmer up more soup! Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/michelledattilio⁠  Connect with Maggie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/maggiegoldenmke  Learn more about sōsh: visit our website and reach out! ⁠getsosh.com ⁠   We'll have another batch ready for you next week!

You have hiked deep into the Redwood forest to enjoy a nice getaway in nature, escaping the stressors of every day life. Just as you set up your tent, you hear what sounds like drops of rain coming down, dripping through the dense leaves way above your head. You have just enough time to duck into your tent before the rain starts falling heavier. You might as well enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest as you wait out the storm in comfort! Gazing out through the screen of your tent, you take in all of the scenery around you. The heavy rain creates a soothing sound all around you, filling the air with a blissful noise of pure relaxation. You feel a sense of calm rush over you as you curl up in your sleeping bag. Being surrounded by the scenery with this soothing rain noise, you know you will get a good night's rest. Your eyes fall heavy, almost as if this storm in the forest creates the perfect rain sound for sleeping. As you fall deeper and deeper into relaxation, you are overcome with sleep. What a perfect spot to set up camp for the weekend. Sleep well! Here are some great products to help you sleep! Relaxing White Noise receives a small commission (at no additional cost to you) on purchases made through affiliate links. Thanks for supporting the podcast! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Baloo Living Weighted Blankets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (Use code 'relaxingwhitenoise10' for 10% off) At Relaxing White Noise, our goal is to help you sleep well. This episode is eight hours long with no advertisements in the middle, so you can use it as a sleeping sound throughout the night. Listening to our white noise sounds via the podcast gives you the freedom to lock your phone at night, keeping your bedroom dark as you fall asleep. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out the 10-Hour version on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Us for Partnership Inquiries⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ With rain and thunder in the forecast, it's a great chance to enjoy some rain sounds for sleeping, studying or relaxation. Listening to thunderstorm sounds can bring about a feeling of calm, while also blocking out distracting noise. Play a storm sounds podcast to enjoy a good night's sleep or to focus on that homework assignment that needs doing. Relaxing White Noise is the number one online destination for white noise and nature sounds to help you sleep, study or soothe a baby. With more than a billion views across YouTube and other platforms, we are excited to now share our popular ambient tracks on the Relaxing White Noise podcast. People use white noise for sleeping, focus, sound masking or relaxation. We couldn't be happier to help folks live better lives. This podcast has the sound for you whether you use white noise for studying, to soothe a colicky baby, to fall asleep or for simply enjoying a peaceful moment. No need to buy a white noise machine when you can listen to these sounds for free. Cheers to living your best life! DISCLAIMER: Remember that loud sounds can potentially damage your hearing. When playing one of our ambiences, if you cannot have a conversation over the sound without raising your voice, the sound may be too loud for your ears. Please do not place speakers right next to a baby's ears. If you have difficulty hearing or hear ringing in your ears, please immediately discontinue listening to the white noise sounds and consult an audiologist or your physician. The sounds provided by Relaxing White Noise are for entertainment purposes only and are not a treatment for sleep disorders or tinnitus. If you have significant difficulty sleeping on a regular basis, experience fitful/restless sleep, or feel tired during the day, please consult your physician. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Relaxing White Noise Privacy Policy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ © Relaxing White Noise LLC, 2024. All rights reserved. Any reproduction or republication of all or part of this text/visual/audio is prohibited.

Today's devotion is written by Sister Maria Kim Bui. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bisdailydevo/support

In this episode, I delve into the narcissistic personalities in the workplace.  Who are they? How do they impact organizations and individuals? What can you do to survive such personalities in the workplace? #narcissisticpersonalities #workplace ReferencesDåderman, A. M., & Kajonius, P. J. (2024). Linking grandiose and vulnerable narcissism to managerial work performance, through the lens of core personality traits and social desirability. Scientific Reports, 14, 12213. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-60202-7Day, N. J. S., Townsend, M. L., & Grenyer, B. F. S. (2020). Living with pathological narcissism: a qualitative study. Borderline Personality Disorder and Emotion Dysregulation, 7(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40479-020-00132-8Gui, W., Bai, Q., & Wang, L. (2022). Workplace incivility and employees' personal initiative: A moderated mediation model of emotional exhaustion and meaningful work. SAGE Open, 12(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440221079899Jauk, E., Ulbrich, L., Jorschick, P., Höfler, M., & Kaufman, S. B. (2021). The non‐linear association between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism: An individual data meta‐analysis. Journal of Personality, 90(4), 553-566. https://doi.org/10.1111/jopy.12692Liu, P., Xiao, C., He, J., Wang, X., & Li, A. (2020). Experienced workplace incivility, anger, guilt, and family satisfaction: The double-edged effect of narcissism. Personality and Individual Differences, 154, 109642. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2019.109642Moon, C., & Morais, C. (2022). The effect of covert narcissism on workplace incivility: The mediating role of self-esteem and norms for respect. Current Psychology, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-02968-5Ramsey-Haynes, S. (2021). Emotional intelligence and workplace incivility among oncology RNs. Nursing Management, 52(5), 10-14. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NUMA.0000792060.00298.03Wang, B., Fiaz, M., Mughal, Y. H., Kiran, A., Ullah, I., & Wisetsri, W. (2022). Gazing the dusty mirror: Joint effect of narcissism and sadism on workplace incivility via indirect effect of paranoia, antagonism, and emotional intelligence. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 944174. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.944174Weinberg, I., & Ronningstam, E. (2022). Narcissistic personality disorder: Progress in understanding and treatment. Focus, 20(4), 368-377. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20220052

TALK TO ME, TEXT ITImagine the unsettling realization that your privacy was invaded during what was meant to be a relaxing cruise vacation. Our episode unfolds the shocking saga of a Royal Caribbean crew member who violated the privacy of nearly 1,000 passengers by filming them in bathrooms. With a 30-year prison sentence and a class-action lawsuit in play, the story raises urgent questions about public safety and privacy. Also, discover the celestial spectacle of Comet C2024S1, poised to illuminate the sky in broad daylight just in time for Halloween. We guide you on when and where to see this rare cosmic event, ensuring you don't miss the chance to witness its awe-inspiring beauty.In the world of online connections, the Pat Heads community stands as a beacon of support and friendship. Throughout this episode, we reflect on how this vibrant community, born from the Pat Gray Unleashed show, has become a source of strength and unity. As we discuss the heartwarming bonds formed among its members, we extend our thoughts and prayers to one particular member facing a tough time. Sharing similar experiences, we offer our solidarity and gratitude, reinforcing the unique and loving connections that make this community truly special. Join us for a blend of community spirit and engaging stories that promise to resonate long after the episode ends. Exit bumper Not A Democracy Podcast Network made by @FuryanEnergySupport the showTip Jar for coffee $ - Thanks Blog - Carol ReMarksX - Carol ReMarks Instagram - Carol.ReMarksFacebook Page - Carol ReMarks Blog

Are you ever tempted to blame yourself for your suffering? Satan wants us to believe that hardships are punishment for our sinbut nothing could be further from the truth. Christ suffered the consequences of our sin so we don't have to. In this message, Jill looks to the book of Job to explain howin the midst of our turmoilwe can live above Satan's lies and live in light of the Truth instead. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

SHALOK, FIFTH MEHL: Please grant Your Grace, O Merciful Lord; please forgive me. Forever and ever, I chant Your Name; I fall at the feet of the True Guru. Please, dwell within my mind and body, and end my sufferings. Please give me Your hand, and save me, that fear may not afflict me. May I sing Your Glorious Praises day and night; please commit me to this task. Associating with the humble Saints, the disease of egotism is eradicated. The One Lord and Master is all-pervading, permeating everywhere. By Gurus Grace, I have truly found the Truest of the True. Please bless me with Your Kindness, O Kind Lord, and bless me with Your Praises. Gazing upon the Blessed Vision of Your Darshan, I am in ecstasy; this is what Nanak loves. || 1 || FIFTH MEHL: Meditate on the One Lord within your mind, and enter the Sanctuary of the One Lord alone. Be in love with the One Lord; there is no other at all. Beg from the One Lord, the Great Giver, and you will be blessed with everything. In your mind and body, with each breath and morsel of food, meditate on the One and only Lord God. The Gurmukh obtains the true treasure, the Ambrosial Naam, the Name of the Lord. Very fortunate are those humble Saints, within whose minds the Lord has come to abide. He is pervading and permeating the water, the land and the sky; there is no other at all. Meditating on the Naam, and chanting the Naam, Nanak abides in the Will of his Lord and Master. || 2 || PAUREE: One who has You as his Saving Grace who can kill him? One who has You as his Saving Grace conquers the three worlds. One who has You on his side his face is radiant and bright. One who has You on his side, is the purest of the Pure. One who is blessed with Your Grace is not called to give his account. One with whom You are pleased, obtains the nine treasures. One who has You on his side, God unto whom is he subservient? One who is blessed with Your Kind Mercy is dedicated to Your worship. || 8 || --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gsjhampur/support

In churches all over the world on Sunday, people will be asked to consider the cross of Christ. The cross shows the extreme length to which God's love has gone for us. Gazing at the foot of the cross we are asked to consider the power and possibilities within that love. This is a force that has changed the world and could still change the world if the followers of Jesus are ready to live into God's love and live out God's love.

Read Online“Why do you notice the splinter in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?”  Luke 6:41Saint Teresa of Ávila, one of the greatest spiritual writers and doctors of the Church, explains in her spiritual masterpiece “Interior Castles,” that one of the first steps on the path to holiness is self-knowledge. Self-knowledge produces humility, because humility is simply having a true opinion about yourself. When a person fails to know themself from the true perspective of the mind of God, then they open themselves up to many errors of judgment. One such error is that they can easily become fixated upon their perceived sins of others.The Gospel passage quoted above depicts a person who gravely lacks self-knowledge. Why? Because they “do not perceive the wooden beam” in their own eye, meaning, they do not see their own sin. As a result, Jesus explains that this person also becomes fixated upon the “splinter” in their brother's eye.When you consider your own thoughts, what do you dwell upon the most all day long? Do you honestly look inward, seeking to know yourself as God knows you? Or do you spend excessive time thinking about others, analyzing and judging their actions? This is an important question to ask yourself and to answer with honesty.The best way to know yourself is to gaze upon Jesus. When He becomes the focus of your attention throughout the day, you will not only come to know Him, but you will also come to know yourself more honestly. Gazing at the beauty and perfection of our Lord will have the double effect of knowing Him and knowing yourself through His eyes. It will also help you to know others as He sees them.How does Jesus look at those around you? He looks at them with perpetual mercy. True, at the end of every life, when we pass from this world to the next, we will encounter our particular judgment from our Lord. But while here on earth, God continually gazes upon us with mercy. For that reason, mercy must become our daily mission, and we must build a habit of gazing upon everyone in our life with the eyes of mercy.Reflect, today, upon our Lord. Look at Him, gaze upon Him, seek to know Him and make Him the focus of your attention. As you do, try to dismiss from your thinking process your own perceived judgments of others. Allow your gaze upon our Lord to help you to not only see Him but to also see others through His eyes. Build this habit and you will be on the fast track to the path to holiness.My merciful Jesus, may I build a humble and true habit of gazing upon You in Your splendor and beauty. As I see You, day in and day out, please also help me to see myself through Your eyes of mercy so that I will also grow in humility. Please remove all judgment from my heart so that I will be free to know and love all people as You know and love them. Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: The Sermon on the Mount by Fra Angelico, via Wikimedia Commons

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss the virtue of Hisbonenus - i.e. Intellectual Meditation upon G-dly concepts, specifically meditation that focuses on G-d's Greatness which leads to "Gazing at the Preciousness of the King". Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 1. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the showSupport the show

What does it mean to expand our perceptions of wealth — and question what it means to build freedom and security in life? How might we re-ground our understandings of democracy in traditional ecological knowledge? And how do we embrace an all-of-the-above approach when it comes to our possibilities for systemic change?In this episode, we are honored to welcome Joseph Gazing Wolf, who offers a wealth of wisdom drawing upon his life experiences growing up in landless, abject poverty.Join us as we explore how what it means to become “uncontrollable” in the eyes of mainstream systems, what we can learn from the diverse Indigenous knowledges rooted in different places around the globe, and more.We invite you to…tune in and subscribe to Green Dreamer via any podcast app;join us on Patreon for the extended version of this episode;and subscribe to our newsletter and latest updates here.

Colossians 1:15-23

Hey everybody! Episode 139 of the show is out. In this episode, I spoke with Seth Lorinczi. Seth is a writer who recently published a book entitled Death Trip: A Post-Holocaust Psychedelic Memoir. We spoke about his background, his involvement in the punk music scene in Washington D.C. and Portland, psychedelics and ayahuasca, MDMA therapy and how it saved his marriage, his book and journey of identity, ancestral and generational trauma, and many other topics. Seth has a really interesting story and a lot to share and I think you all will gain a lot from this interview. As always, to support this podcast, get early access to shows, bonus material, and Q&As, check out my Patreon page below. Enjoy!This episode is sponsored by Real Mushrooms. As listeners, visit their website to enjoy a discount of 25% off your first order: https://www.realmushrooms.com/universe“I've never been much of a joiner. After an early childhood trauma—the sudden death of my mother, when I was four—I found it hard to believe in much of anything. The election of Ronald Reagan, when I was nine, only underscored the feeling that the world didn't make much sense. Then, when I was eleven, my school got funding to purchase new telescopes and the science teacher gave the battered old ones away to interested students. I was one of them, and that telescope changed my life.Peering through the eyepiece and watching the surface of the Moon unroll itself before me, I felt a powerful sense of homecoming. Gazing at the terminator—the line that divides the light and dark sides of the Moon—I felt there was something here for me, a riddle I'd gazed at my whole life but never understood.Ever since then I've been on a mission to explore this place, whether through psychedelics or my time in the D.C. punk scene. I sensed there was something beyond what I saw with my own two eyes, something that might explain the sense of unreality I'd felt ever since I was young. What I was writing towards, I only see now, was a sense of belonging.”To learn more about or contact Seth, visit his website at: https://www.sethlorinczi.com/To view the recent documentary about us, Sacred Tobacco, visit: https://youtu.be/KB0JEQALI_wIf you enjoy the show, it's a big help if you can share it via social media or word of mouth. And please Subscribe or Follow and if you can go on Apple Podcasts and leave a starred-rating and a short review. This is super helpful with the algorithms and getting this show out to more people. Thank you in advance!For more information about me and my upcoming plant medicine retreats with my colleague Merav Artzi, visit my site at: https://www.NicotianaRustica.orgTo book an integration call with me, visit: https://jasongrechanik.setmore.comSupport this podcast on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/UniverseWithinDonate directly with PayPal:https://www.paypal.me/jasongrechanikMusic courtesy of: Nuno Moreno (end song). Visit: https://m.soundcloud.com/groove_a_zen_sound and https://nahira-ziwa.bandcamp.com/ And Stefan Kasapovski's Santero Project (intro song). Visit: https://spoti.fi/3y5Rd4Hhttps://www.facebook.com/UniverseWithinPodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/UniverseWithinPodcast

Illuminating the Path: Guided Candle Gazing Meditation for Emotional Healing In this episode, join me, Christine Wallace, as I guide you through a powerful candle gazing meditation designed to bring deep emotional healing and inner peace. Candle gazing, also known as "Trataka," is an ancient meditation practice that helps calm the mind, enhance focus, and cleanse emotional blockages. We'll explore the benefits of this simple yet profound practice, from reducing anxiety and stress to fostering clarity and emotional balance. Whether you're new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this guided session will help you connect with your inner light and illuminate the path to healing. Don't miss out on this transformative experience—light a candle, find a quiet space, and let your journey begin. If you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to share it with someone who might benefit. Your likes, reviews, and subscriptions help our community grow, so please rate and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thank you for your support! #Meditation #Mindfulness #SpiritualHealing #EmotionalHealing #SelfCare #InnerPeace #CandleMeditation #WellnessJourney #GuidedMeditation #MentalHealth #HealingJourney #Trataka #CalmMind #Focus #Spirituality #ChristineWallace

“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek…” What is that one thing for you? Wisdom? Comfort? Stability? David's answer would be God Himself!  We find that 3 actions are associated with how David seeks God: Dwelling, Gazing, and Inquiring. In the second message of Thrive's series “Seek First”, we dive into the heart of David's desire for God, as found in Psalm 27.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Breathe. And take a moment of silence to just observe your thoughts. PAUSE Now, breathe again, and visualize a beautiful woven basket where you place all those thoughts in it, so you are ready for meditation. PAUSE Take a moment, and envision yourself on a beach just comfortably sitting  and taking in the surroundings. PAUSE And in the distance, you see a group of brown pelicans bobbing up and down in the water enjoying their time together quietly PAUSE A little while later, the pelicans lift out of the water and form a V, as they circle around the beach. There is no squawking or noise. It's as if they all just connected and understood. You understand and feel the beauty in that. PAUSE As you continue to watch the pelicans, you notice their patient approach to catching their food. They fly a few feet above the water, Gazing into it, waiting for the right opportunity. Then, when the opportunity arises, they dive. They scoop up a fish with their beaks, and tip back their necks to swallow it. They return to patiently flying and looking for more food together. PAUSE Moments later, the pelicans change directions and fly out toward the horizon, the wings open and gliding, forming a silhouette  against the sun. PAUSE Now, draw in a deep breath, and let the energy of the pelicans into you. Feel their patience and connectedness to each other.  PAUSE Now, take a moment, and allow yourself  to create an intention from the pelican's energy. “I will approach life with patience for myself and others.” PAUSE Draw in another breath, and let the intention really into your heart. As it settles there, know that you can access it, and the essence of the pelican, at any time. It is yours always. NAMASTE, BEAUTIFUL

In this episode, Vee and Elle chat with professional cuddler and dominatrix Bee, who is also the co-founder of Temple in Chicago, a shibari and aerial performer, and the partner of previous repeat guest Physics (Episode 45: Yoni Massage vs Squirting, Episode 46: BDSM, DDLG and Shibari). In this wide-ranging conversation, the four of them touch on everything from DDLG dynamics to overcoming vulva shame through yoni gazing.Temple: The feminine energy vs the masculine energy, creating a space for women to feel vulnerable enough to have those transformational experiences. Events at Temple from yoni gazing to massage to Littles Parties. (1:26)Overcoming vulnerabilities about our vulvas by yoni gazing. Admiring, acknowledging and affirming your vulva. Porn star pussy vs real life.  Uneven labia. (11:09)Professional cuddling: platonic touch therapy.  The importance of touch. What does a cuddling session entail? How can a professional cuddler maintain safety? (21:08)Therapeutic Kink as a mode of healing and helping others work through trauma through professional domming. Do all clients have something to work through? (31:08)DDLG (Daddy Dom Little Girl) Dynamics: how being a “little” allows Bee to be in her dominant energy during the day. (39:11)Switchy Domme: Power dynamics and differentiating between personal pleasure practices and experiences vs. work experiences. (43:16)Shibari: what does it do for the people practicing it? Showmanship with suspension combined with aerial skills and squirting. How to prep for squirting: regular hydration! (46:09)Upside down squirting: wow factors and showmanship in erotic shibari performance. (50:47)Links:Find Bee on Fetlife: LilHoneyBeeBuzzFind Physics on Fetlife: PhysicsWebsites: CuddlesByBee.comThe TempleWhere to find us, and how you can support us:Instagram: @girlsgonedeeppod Merch: girlsgonedeep.com/shopContact: girlsgonedeep@gmail.comWHOREible Life: Get 10% off your deck with code GONEDEEP at whoreiblelife.com Instagram: @wlthegameWoo More Play Affiliate Link: Support us while you shop!

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a deep breath, And still your mind. Let yourself melt into the sheets, So your mind and body align. LONG PAUSE As you breathe in deep, See the stress letting go. Feel yourself just Drifting with the flow. LONG PAUSE Let the relaxation take over you; And welcome the solace. Sail into sleep with no cares, Just like a beautiful goddess.    LONG PAUSE Now, imagine if you can, Standing at the foot of a rainbow, Gazing into the clouds, Where all the beautiful colors go. PAUSE There's a soft red arch, Like the petal of a rose, Another in aquamarine And a third in pale yellow. PAUSE If you shift your gaze, A violet arch appears, And a hint of green and orange show up, When you draw near. PAUSE And as you continue to observe, You notice the color indigo emerge. PAUSE After a moment, you raise your arms, And are lifted to the sky, Connecting with the rainbow colors, Body, soul and mind. PAUSE   Now, imagine if you can, Those rainbow colors in you, As you slide up the arches, To explore something new.  PAUSE Imagine scaling the colors, As your rise into the sky, Seeing shimmering sunlight, And misty clouds go by. PAUSE And the rainbow works like a conveyor belt, Moving you to the top. The higher you go; the more connected you feel. You don't want this feeling to stop. PAUSE And finally, the rainbow conveyor slows, As you reach the highest peak, With rays of sunlight all around, Shining through in streaks. PAUSE And, from your place atop the clouds, Sitting on the rainbow's arch, You feel the rainbow inside of you; It's no longer separate and apart. PAUSE You feel your chakras vibrate, Each energy center alive, You feel it in your abdomen, And at the base of your spine. PAUSE         You feel the colors in your core And in your throat above, And through your chest, near your heart, You're filled with compassion and love. PAUSE And a gentle energy hums On your head and between your eyes. You see the colors indigo and purple, Blending with you and rising to the sky. PAUSE Breathe in deep the colors, That light you from inside. Feel your energy balancing, As joy and peace coincide. PAUSE And, after a moment you're ready, To bid the rainbow goodbye. You turn and position yourself, For your downward ride. PAUSE   And, as you cruise down through the clouds, You relish the balance within. The rainbow has shown you magic, And that you both are truly kin. PAUSE So, when your feet touch the ground, And the rainbow fades away, You thank the rainbow for its magic, And head out on your way. PAUSE Yet, as you leave, you know the truth, Of the rainbow in the sky, It's part of you and will always be, Lighting you from inside. NAMASTE, BEAUTIFUL

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a deep breath, And still your mind. Let yourself melt into the sheets, So your mind and body align. LONG PAUSE As you breathe in deep, See the stress letting go. Feel yourself just Drifting with the flow. LONG PAUSE Let the relaxation take over you; And welcome the solace. Sail into sleep with no cares, Just like a beautiful goddess.    LONG PAUSE Now, imagine if you can, Standing at the foot of a rainbow, Gazing into the clouds, Where all the beautiful colors go. PAUSE There's a soft red arch, Like the petal of a rose, Another in aquamarine And a third in pale yellow. PAUSE If you shift your gaze, A violet arch appears, And a hint of green and orange show up, When you draw near. PAUSE And as you continue to observe, You notice the color indigo emerge. PAUSE After a moment, you raise your arms, And are lifted to the sky, Connecting with the rainbow colors, Body, soul and mind. PAUSE   Now, imagine if you can, Those rainbow colors in you, As you slide up the arches, To explore something new.  PAUSE Imagine scaling the colors, As your rise into the sky, Seeing shimmering sunlight, And misty clouds go by. PAUSE And the rainbow works like a conveyor belt, Moving you to the top. The higher you go; the more connected you feel. You don't want this feeling to stop. PAUSE And finally, the rainbow conveyor slows, As you reach the highest peak, With rays of sunlight all around, Shining through in streaks. PAUSE And, from your place atop the clouds, Sitting on the rainbow's arch, You feel the rainbow inside of you; It's no longer separate and apart. PAUSE You feel your chakras vibrate, Each energy center alive, You feel it in your abdomen, And at the base of your spine. PAUSE         You feel the colors in your core And in your throat above, And through your chest, near your heart, You're filled with compassion and love. PAUSE And a gentle energy hums On your head and between your eyes. You see the colors indigo and purple, Blending with you and rising to the sky. PAUSE Breathe in deep the colors, That light you from inside. Feel your energy balancing, As joy and peace coincide. PAUSE And, after a moment you're ready, To bid the rainbow goodbye. You turn and position yourself, For your downward ride. PAUSE   And, as you cruise down through the clouds, You relish the balance within. The rainbow has shown you magic, And that you both are truly kin. PAUSE So, when your feet touch the ground, And the rainbow fades away, You thank the rainbow for its magic, And head out on your way. PAUSE Yet, as you leave, you know the truth, Of the rainbow in the sky, It's part of you and will always be, Lighting you from inside. NAMASTE, BEAUTIFUL

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Settle yourself, Finding a comfortable position that lets you relax. LONG PAUSE Turn your focus inward, Noticing your breath, And letting each healing breath, Touch any pain or tension lingering in you. LONG PAUSE Continue breathing in relaxation, And, if any stray thought crosses your mind, just visualize it floating away for now. LONG PAUSE Now, imagine, if you can, sitting by crystal blue river on a cool spring day. PAUSE The sun is glowing brightly. The sky is sapphire blue. And the trees are coming alive with tiny, colorful buds. PAUSE The air is a mixture of the sun's warmth and the cool crispness in the breeze. It feels lovely lapping against your cheeks. PAUSE Pause in this beauty, and take it in through your senses. PAUSE And now, imagine, if you can, an area of bubbles popping in the center of the river. The bubbles fascinate you, as they grow bigger and bigger. PAUSE After a moment, the bubbles seem to come together, as if forming a shape. PAUSE And, as you watch, a beautiful woman, rises from the bubbles, into the air before you. PAUSE She is robed in white buffalo, with onyx hair gently cascading around her. An silvery ethereal glow shimmers around her. PAUSE The maiden draws closer to you. She nods. Instinctively, you nod, too. “I am the Spirit of the Water,” she says. PAUSE Then, the maiden Invites you to the water's edge. You follow and kneel on the bank, and at her encouraging, gently make a whirlpool with your hand. “The water is alive,” she says to you. “Feel the life of the water.” PAUSE A tiny pulse charges through your hand, As you continue making whirlpools. Feelings of life and renewal surge through you. The water is alive. PAUSE Then, the woman drifts back to the center of the river. She looks to the sky and raises her hands. A soft drum beats in the background. PAUSE After a moment, A flock of birds arrives and drinks the waters  of the river. They squawk and chirp, filled with life and energy. PAUSE Then a moose trots to the edge of the river, The tip of his nose nuzzling the life-giving water while his tongue partakes. PAUSE Moments later, The maiden raises her arms again. Within seconds, hundreds of colorful wildflowers bloom around the bank. Pink, yellow, blue, white flowers dot the landscape and send a pleasing, sweet aroma into the air. PAUSE A gurgling noise catches your attention. Gazing into the waters, you see dozens of fish gnawing on river grass and burbling. One jumps and wriggles in the air. PAUSE Then, the maiden draws close to you. She reaches into the river, cupping her hands, and offering you a drink. You accept and drink in the water. PAUSE As you drink, The life of the water, pulses through you, bestowing energy and power upon you. PAUSE The maiden nods to you, and returns to the center of the river, where a swell of bubbles brings her home to her water. PAUSE And, while you may not see her anymore, you feel her spirit,  The water's spirit, bubbling in you. And you feel the beautiful wildflowers opening with life. And the birds singing with joy. And the animals rejuvenating, All from the life of the water. The water is alive in you. NAMASTE, BEAUTIFUL