POPULARITY
The truth behind the priests lecherous legends.By Nakod Apa. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.The PledgeAs was customary, the Temple constables came for Diana early on the day that she came of age; for it was ordained that one who had not been sired by a man was holy and consecrated to the service of the gods, if male to become a priest, if female to serve as a vestal servant; and that they should remain celibate all their years. She wore her finest outfit and did herself up for this big occasion. Today she was accepting a celibate vow and a lifetime of religious duties in the temple and the ministries of the priests. She was stunning, and folks stopped and stared along the streets, as her family procession went by.Diana was named for a great goddess. Her natural beauty was striking. Her inner grace and humility prevented her from any vanity at all.Peaceably Diana bade farewell to her mother but allowed them to follow behind her, to the Temple stronghold, for even had she so wished, there was no way she could escape her fate. She had long known that it was her destiny to become a vestal, as it had been her brother's to become a priest.Shut in a small cell, the hours passed slowly, boringly, as she waited to be given the first initiation step; a red robe of a novice; then be instructed in her duties. At last there came a clatter in the corridor and the sound of a key in the lock. Awkwardly, bearing a tray of food, a tall, young priest entered.“Jon!” She exclaimed in surprise. She jumped up and embraced her brother.“Hush, not so loud, little sister,” he admonished. “I had to bribe the kitchen vestal to allow me to deliver this in her place.”“But how are you, brother? Two years and I've not heard from you. Why have you not written?”“As you will discover it is not permitted for those commanded to the service of The Gods, to communicate with the ones they leave behind.”“Not even their sisters?”“Especially not them, for they might disclose the truth of matters that only The Chosen may know.”“Oh! But I was chosen to become a vestal anyway.”“And now you are not. That's why I came as soon as it was possible. To advise you.”“What do you mean, not to become a vestal? What else can I be?” Diana was confused.Jon paused to gather his thoughts. “Let me first set you aright, for much that we are taught is false; especially, that only those who are married may know and practice sex. Thus it follows that the children of an unmarried woman, like us, must have been conceived without benefit of a man, and are therefore special. Correct?”“Yes, of course.”“It's complete nonsense.”“Then who is our father?”“I know not, except that he must have been a priest.”“But the priests are celibate.”Jon gave a snort. “That is what we are meant to believe. The truth is that a priest may have sex whenever he pleases. I've enjoyed many women in the last two years.”“But where did you, do they, find the women?”“What do you think vestals are for?”“You mean, no I cannot believe it.” Diana was dismayed.“Vestals keep house, but that is secondary. Their main duty is to serve us priests. If you had become a vestal you would have been required to entertain any priest who desired you, and with looks like yours it would not have been long before most would have taken and enjoyed you. Wow, look at you, Diana! You're far more beautiful than I remember! These past two years have been very good to you.”“But what has this to do with being special.”“Well, how do we replace those that go to join the gods? If it were to be with the offspring of priests and vestals it would expose the myth of our purity, and in any case would eventually lead to serious inbreeding. So, at a certain point in their career, each priest is commanded to select from the Common Folk an unmarried woman he fancies, then drug the Eucharist she receives at prayers, divert her to private quarters after mass, then wait for her to pass out. When she finally awakes, she knows nothing of the sexual relations that occurred. But if she conceives, she is publicly esteemed by the priest, for having an immaculate conception. The bastards are the special ones, the replacements, us.”Diana shuddered and studied the floor. “But if I'm not to be a vestal, what am I to be?”“You remember in our lessons they taught us about the war with the nation of Dragonia?”“Yes.”“And how as part of the peace treaty, and to mark our subservience, we are bound to provide an annual tribute?”“Sure.”“What they didn't say was that this tribute is not a tax. That collected tax is diverted to secret clerical treasuries. The actual required Dragonian tribute is only nominal, and takes the form of a maiden. A beautiful young maiden from among the vestals and pledges. She becomes a slave to please and entertain the man who is ruler of Dragonia, The elders have decided that you are to be our tribute for this year.”“But I'm not beautiful.”“Oh my sister, Your humility denies the truth. Everyone else thinks otherwise, and they make the decisions in the Temple. Anyway just accept what comes, for a day or so. It won't be anything serious, at least not until you are given to the Dragonian dictator. I don't know what happens after that. But for now I'll keep an eye out and help where I can. Look, I'll have to go or they'll be wondering where I've disappeared to. Eat that food. Keep your strength up.”Awkwardly Jon leant forward and gave her a brotherly peck on the cheek, then slipped out of the cell door.The InitiationSomewhat perturbed Diana toyed with her food until, some thirty minutes later, two vestals appeared, led her to a room lined with old, cracked tiles, briskly undressed her, bathed her, then clothed her in an ancient red robe.“What happens now,” Diana asked.“You get to be taken to the High Cardinal.” One of the vestals told her. “Come on! He's impatient to know you.”Wearing only his outer dalmatic vesture, the High Cardinal watched as Diana was brought to stand before him. The red shift marking her as a novice was threadbare and at least two sizes too big, only just clinging to the points of her shoulders and leaving bare her slim neck and clavicle. The thin cloth draped itself enticingly around her ample breasts and rippled slightly as she walked, plainly revealing the bulge of her nipples with their dark areola. Her gleaming black hair tumbled down her back in disarray until it nearly touched her tight butt.He said nothing, just looked. He felt his manhood gradually stir and stiffen into readiness. This was one he would relish. Three-and-a-half score years, and more, were behind him but still he had the will and the power to want, ravish and enjoy, although not as often as in his prime. This one would delight him with the softness of those hand filling breasts and the thrusts of his shaft inside her hot, throbbing center. Of the many vestals he'd selected to pleasure him over the years, few had possessed a body to compare with this girl. It was a pity she must be relinquished to the Tribute, but it had to be. At least he would have a use of her before she was sent south.For her part Diana waited uncertainly. The supreme head of the Temple, this holy man, was staring at her most peculiarly. It was as if he wanted, intended, to have her. But no, he couldn't, if Jon was right he could take any woman he wished, so why should he want her? Anyway he was so old. That scrawny neck, those hollow cheeks and drooling lips revolted her. The thought of those liver-spot covered hands roaming across her body, fondling her breasts and caressing her thighs, made her feel sick.“My daughter. It was intended that thou shouldst become a vestal. That our priests, who so devoutly serve the Mighty Gods, might be blessed with some reward for their endeavors by enjoying the pleasures of your body. But on occasion the good of our congregation requires another, higher, sacrifice. We wish it were not so, that we could keep you amongst us, but we must bow before The God's command. Thou art to be our Tribute to The Great Dragon, the ruler of Dragonia, that he may leave us in peace for another year.” The High Cardinal paused, “We do not have to explain, your brother covered it well enough.”“You were listening?”“Do you think we are so imprudent as not to take a few precautions. Of course we heard all that he said, There remains just one item to be confirmed. Your beauty is undeniable, but alone it may not suffice to provide the pleasure to which a ruler is entitled. It is our duty to confirm that you will fully answer his desires.”She was muddled, disjointed, confused. “I don't understand.”Prima Nocta“We must be sure that when he uses you, as a man uses a woman, you will satisfy him. So we must first test your bounty.”“I'm to be mated?”“Yes. It is a chore we will ourselves undertake.”The thought of being taken by him repelled her. His pretense that he was only performing his duty was unconvincing, every word merely echoed his lust for her body.The High Cardinal drew a silk scarf from the pocket of his dalmatic vesture. “But first, since your preference will likely run to youth rather than experience, let us blindfold you. Then you can focus your mind on our skill, not our image.” He fastened the scarf around her eyes.“Now come. Disrobe and let us savor that lovely body with which The Great Gods have blessed you.”What choice did she have? Trembling, she raised her arms and reached behind to unfasten her shift. Lazily it fell to circle her feet. She felt a slight draught caress her body, and shivered as she imagined his eyes on her naked and vulnerable flesh. He would be studying her boobs, her untouched cunni. Tightly she pressed her legs together to hide her nether lips.“Trust us,” he said. “Do all we say and you will have an experience you will never forget.”She managed a faint, “I do not doubt it, Your Grace.”Smiling, pleased with her submissiveness, he looked her up and down, his eyes agleam with desire. His gaze lingering first on her quim with its lush beaver, then on her full, firm tits. His breathing grew harsh, his chest heaved as he reached for her and crushed her to him, the hardness of his erection stabbing her stomach. His palms stroked up and down her back, gently massaging her, feeling the smoothness of her skin; then paused on her hips, slid round to her flat belly and up, up to those adorable boobs. He stopped for a long moment, just cupping them and savoring their firm weight.When he again moved he slowly dragged his palms to and fro across her nipples, feeling them swell, before holding her by the shoulders and easing her to the couch. Firmly he pushed her back until she was lying, her neat buns at the edge, her legs dangling.His hands left her. Diana could hear a rustling, he was removing his dalmatic vesture. Quiet footsteps and she sensed he was beside her again. A light, barely felt touch, brushed her mouth. Her tongue instinctively flicked out to find his finger as he caressed each lip in turn. Then he stroked her cheeks, before dragging his palms down across her chin, her neck, the hollow of her collar bone, smoothing the skin in small circles. When he reached her left breast he pressed gently around the edge spiraling in until he found her bud. It stood high for him to squeeze firmly, sending a bolt of ecstasy straight to her centre. She moaned.The High Cardinal heard her breathing deepen, leant forward and ran his tongue around her other breast. God, she was tasty. His thin lips opened to take her swollen nipple into his mouth. He nipped her with his teeth, sucking her deep.The fingers of his other hand found her cunni. Gently, oh, so gently at first, he stroked her from clit to anus. His fondling grew firmer. He pushed a finger inside to test her dampness, was gratified when she arched her back and pushed her mound into his hand.The scarf was doing its work; she was unable to see him but his heavy breathing and the musky, unmistakable scent of sex was feeding her carnal needs and overcoming her revulsion. Her soft, “Yes, yes,” was music in his ears.“What do you want, my dear?” he asked.Diana barely heard him, all she knew was the rapture of his hands and mouth thrilling her in a way she had never known before. As he rubbed her clit, she began to pant, gave a low moan and dug her nails into his shoulders, then down his back to his hips, instinctively pulling him to her.He held back, in no hurry. She felt him ease himself onto the couch and kneel across her. All the time his tongue licked her nipples, his fingers explored her cunni, testing her wetness but not entering her. Her breathing quickened, she was near to climax. She whimpered, she needed to be filled. He would not let her come. His touch on her swollen cunni lips was feather light, then firm, then light. He seemed to sense her need and to repeatedly rouse and then deny her.She was ready. His fingers parted the soft lips of her center. The helmet of his cock butted them, sliding up and down coating itself with her dampness. He eased away from her, placed a hand to one side to take his weight, his other reaching for her thighs to open her wider before grasping his now totally rigid staff and positioning it at her entrance.She felt it, hard yet soft, probing, pushing her lips apart as the glans slowly entered, forcing deeper and deeper. There was nothing else in the world now but this manhood thrusting, filling, rewarding her. His stroke was slow, his pelvis grinding her clit. She couldn't resist. The tremors started deep inside her then rushed out to explode around his cock.He heard her cry, felt her come, but it was too soon, he wasn't ready yet. He thrust harder, faster; her beauty, her pleasure, her satisfaction were a dim, unimportant memory. All that mattered was his release. His thighs tightened, he shuddered, he whimpered. Hot and hard his seed erupted into her, filling her. He lowered his chest onto her two soft boobs and rested while his heartbeat slowed and the blood drained from his tyrannical probe.Some minutes passed before he rose, resumed his robes and removed the blindfold. “Yes, you will be a worthy Tribute. Would that we had more time to attend to your education ourselves. It would please us greatly to instruct you further. However, the Gods have ordained otherwise. You are required to leave at first light.”“No. Leave that. You deserve better,” he said as she reached to cover herself with the discarded shift. He pulled a cord by the tapestry and she heard the faint chime of a distant bell.The two vestals who had escorted her into his presence entered and genuflected. They were good looking women only a few years older than Diana.“What is the meaning of this rag?” The High Cardinal thrust the shift at them.“But, Your Grace, it is not worth giving her new robes just for the journey. Especially as we are told she will be naked for the presentation ceremony.”“But what if she is seen on the journey. What of her dignity. She deserves your respect. Both of you, remove your robes. Now!”Quaking somewhat at his anger they quickly unfastened their gowns, red with the white edging of senior vestals, and laid them before their feet.“Right,” he turned to Diana, “take your pick. Either should be a reasonable fit.Hesitantly Diana stepped to where, naked, staring at the floor, the two vestals waited. Gingerly she selected the nearest robe and swiftly lowered it over her head, grateful in the draughty room for the residual warmth of it's previous owner.Priest GeorgeThere was a sharp rap on the door. “Come!” Commanded the High Cardinal. The figure that entered was young for a senior priest being but a couple of years older than Diana's brother, but he carried himself with the assurance of one who has already received some prominence in the governing hierarchy.“Ah! George. Well timed.” The High Cardinal frowned at the two Vestals. “We will discuss your performance later. You may withdraw.”Hastily one gathered up the remaining robe and the other the rag that Diana had worn and, still naked, they hurried out of the chamber.“There she is, George,” the old man gestured toward Diana. “You may take her and be on your way. I will expect you back within three weeks.”The young priest bowed his head. “I am honored Your Grace. I will not fail the Gods.” Reaching out he took Diana's hand and drew her from the room.
The truth behind the priests lecherous legends.By Nakod Apa. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.The PledgeAs was customary, the Temple constables came for Diana early on the day that she came of age; for it was ordained that one who had not been sired by a man was holy and consecrated to the service of the gods, if male to become a priest, if female to serve as a vestal servant; and that they should remain celibate all their years. She wore her finest outfit and did herself up for this big occasion. Today she was accepting a celibate vow and a lifetime of religious duties in the temple and the ministries of the priests. She was stunning, and folks stopped and stared along the streets, as her family procession went by.Diana was named for a great goddess. Her natural beauty was striking. Her inner grace and humility prevented her from any vanity at all.Peaceably Diana bade farewell to her mother but allowed them to follow behind her, to the Temple stronghold, for even had she so wished, there was no way she could escape her fate. She had long known that it was her destiny to become a vestal, as it had been her brother's to become a priest.Shut in a small cell, the hours passed slowly, boringly, as she waited to be given the first initiation step; a red robe of a novice; then be instructed in her duties. At last there came a clatter in the corridor and the sound of a key in the lock. Awkwardly, bearing a tray of food, a tall, young priest entered.“Jon!” She exclaimed in surprise. She jumped up and embraced her brother.“Hush, not so loud, little sister,” he admonished. “I had to bribe the kitchen vestal to allow me to deliver this in her place.”“But how are you, brother? Two years and I've not heard from you. Why have you not written?”“As you will discover it is not permitted for those commanded to the service of The Gods, to communicate with the ones they leave behind.”“Not even their sisters?”“Especially not them, for they might disclose the truth of matters that only The Chosen may know.”“Oh! But I was chosen to become a vestal anyway.”“And now you are not. That's why I came as soon as it was possible. To advise you.”“What do you mean, not to become a vestal? What else can I be?” Diana was confused.Jon paused to gather his thoughts. “Let me first set you aright, for much that we are taught is false; especially, that only those who are married may know and practice sex. Thus it follows that the children of an unmarried woman, like us, must have been conceived without benefit of a man, and are therefore special. Correct?”“Yes, of course.”“It's complete nonsense.”“Then who is our father?”“I know not, except that he must have been a priest.”“But the priests are celibate.”Jon gave a snort. “That is what we are meant to believe. The truth is that a priest may have sex whenever he pleases. I've enjoyed many women in the last two years.”“But where did you, do they, find the women?”“What do you think vestals are for?”“You mean, no I cannot believe it.” Diana was dismayed.“Vestals keep house, but that is secondary. Their main duty is to serve us priests. If you had become a vestal you would have been required to entertain any priest who desired you, and with looks like yours it would not have been long before most would have taken and enjoyed you. Wow, look at you, Diana! You're far more beautiful than I remember! These past two years have been very good to you.”“But what has this to do with being special.”“Well, how do we replace those that go to join the gods? If it were to be with the offspring of priests and vestals it would expose the myth of our purity, and in any case would eventually lead to serious inbreeding. So, at a certain point in their career, each priest is commanded to select from the Common Folk an unmarried woman he fancies, then drug the Eucharist she receives at prayers, divert her to private quarters after mass, then wait for her to pass out. When she finally awakes, she knows nothing of the sexual relations that occurred. But if she conceives, she is publicly esteemed by the priest, for having an immaculate conception. The bastards are the special ones, the replacements, us.”Diana shuddered and studied the floor. “But if I'm not to be a vestal, what am I to be?”“You remember in our lessons they taught us about the war with the nation of Dragonia?”“Yes.”“And how as part of the peace treaty, and to mark our subservience, we are bound to provide an annual tribute?”“Sure.”“What they didn't say was that this tribute is not a tax. That collected tax is diverted to secret clerical treasuries. The actual required Dragonian tribute is only nominal, and takes the form of a maiden. A beautiful young maiden from among the vestals and pledges. She becomes a slave to please and entertain the man who is ruler of Dragonia, The elders have decided that you are to be our tribute for this year.”“But I'm not beautiful.”“Oh my sister, Your humility denies the truth. Everyone else thinks otherwise, and they make the decisions in the Temple. Anyway just accept what comes, for a day or so. It won't be anything serious, at least not until you are given to the Dragonian dictator. I don't know what happens after that. But for now I'll keep an eye out and help where I can. Look, I'll have to go or they'll be wondering where I've disappeared to. Eat that food. Keep your strength up.”Awkwardly Jon leant forward and gave her a brotherly peck on the cheek, then slipped out of the cell door.The InitiationSomewhat perturbed Diana toyed with her food until, some thirty minutes later, two vestals appeared, led her to a room lined with old, cracked tiles, briskly undressed her, bathed her, then clothed her in an ancient red robe.“What happens now,” Diana asked.“You get to be taken to the High Cardinal.” One of the vestals told her. “Come on! He's impatient to know you.”Wearing only his outer dalmatic vesture, the High Cardinal watched as Diana was brought to stand before him. The red shift marking her as a novice was threadbare and at least two sizes too big, only just clinging to the points of her shoulders and leaving bare her slim neck and clavicle. The thin cloth draped itself enticingly around her ample breasts and rippled slightly as she walked, plainly revealing the bulge of her nipples with their dark areola. Her gleaming black hair tumbled down her back in disarray until it nearly touched her tight butt.He said nothing, just looked. He felt his manhood gradually stir and stiffen into readiness. This was one he would relish. Three-and-a-half score years, and more, were behind him but still he had the will and the power to want, ravish and enjoy, although not as often as in his prime. This one would delight him with the softness of those hand filling breasts and the thrusts of his shaft inside her hot, throbbing center. Of the many vestals he'd selected to pleasure him over the years, few had possessed a body to compare with this girl. It was a pity she must be relinquished to the Tribute, but it had to be. At least he would have a use of her before she was sent south.For her part Diana waited uncertainly. The supreme head of the Temple, this holy man, was staring at her most peculiarly. It was as if he wanted, intended, to have her. But no, he couldn't, if Jon was right he could take any woman he wished, so why should he want her? Anyway he was so old. That scrawny neck, those hollow cheeks and drooling lips revolted her. The thought of those liver-spot covered hands roaming across her body, fondling her breasts and caressing her thighs, made her feel sick.“My daughter. It was intended that thou shouldst become a vestal. That our priests, who so devoutly serve the Mighty Gods, might be blessed with some reward for their endeavors by enjoying the pleasures of your body. But on occasion the good of our congregation requires another, higher, sacrifice. We wish it were not so, that we could keep you amongst us, but we must bow before The God's command. Thou art to be our Tribute to The Great Dragon, the ruler of Dragonia, that he may leave us in peace for another year.” The High Cardinal paused, “We do not have to explain, your brother covered it well enough.”“You were listening?”“Do you think we are so imprudent as not to take a few precautions. Of course we heard all that he said, There remains just one item to be confirmed. Your beauty is undeniable, but alone it may not suffice to provide the pleasure to which a ruler is entitled. It is our duty to confirm that you will fully answer his desires.”She was muddled, disjointed, confused. “I don't understand.”Prima Nocta“We must be sure that when he uses you, as a man uses a woman, you will satisfy him. So we must first test your bounty.”“I'm to be mated?”“Yes. It is a chore we will ourselves undertake.”The thought of being taken by him repelled her. His pretense that he was only performing his duty was unconvincing, every word merely echoed his lust for her body.The High Cardinal drew a silk scarf from the pocket of his dalmatic vesture. “But first, since your preference will likely run to youth rather than experience, let us blindfold you. Then you can focus your mind on our skill, not our image.” He fastened the scarf around her eyes.“Now come. Disrobe and let us savor that lovely body with which The Great Gods have blessed you.”What choice did she have? Trembling, she raised her arms and reached behind to unfasten her shift. Lazily it fell to circle her feet. She felt a slight draught caress her body, and shivered as she imagined his eyes on her naked and vulnerable flesh. He would be studying her boobs, her untouched cunni. Tightly she pressed her legs together to hide her nether lips.“Trust us,” he said. “Do all we say and you will have an experience you will never forget.”She managed a faint, “I do not doubt it, Your Grace.”Smiling, pleased with her submissiveness, he looked her up and down, his eyes agleam with desire. His gaze lingering first on her quim with its lush beaver, then on her full, firm tits. His breathing grew harsh, his chest heaved as he reached for her and crushed her to him, the hardness of his erection stabbing her stomach. His palms stroked up and down her back, gently massaging her, feeling the smoothness of her skin; then paused on her hips, slid round to her flat belly and up, up to those adorable boobs. He stopped for a long moment, just cupping them and savoring their firm weight.When he again moved he slowly dragged his palms to and fro across her nipples, feeling them swell, before holding her by the shoulders and easing her to the couch. Firmly he pushed her back until she was lying, her neat buns at the edge, her legs dangling.His hands left her. Diana could hear a rustling, he was removing his dalmatic vesture. Quiet footsteps and she sensed he was beside her again. A light, barely felt touch, brushed her mouth. Her tongue instinctively flicked out to find his finger as he caressed each lip in turn. Then he stroked her cheeks, before dragging his palms down across her chin, her neck, the hollow of her collar bone, smoothing the skin in small circles. When he reached her left breast he pressed gently around the edge spiraling in until he found her bud. It stood high for him to squeeze firmly, sending a bolt of ecstasy straight to her centre. She moaned.The High Cardinal heard her breathing deepen, leant forward and ran his tongue around her other breast. God, she was tasty. His thin lips opened to take her swollen nipple into his mouth. He nipped her with his teeth, sucking her deep.The fingers of his other hand found her cunni. Gently, oh, so gently at first, he stroked her from clit to anus. His fondling grew firmer. He pushed a finger inside to test her dampness, was gratified when she arched her back and pushed her mound into his hand.The scarf was doing its work; she was unable to see him but his heavy breathing and the musky, unmistakable scent of sex was feeding her carnal needs and overcoming her revulsion. Her soft, “Yes, yes,” was music in his ears.“What do you want, my dear?” he asked.Diana barely heard him, all she knew was the rapture of his hands and mouth thrilling her in a way she had never known before. As he rubbed her clit, she began to pant, gave a low moan and dug her nails into his shoulders, then down his back to his hips, instinctively pulling him to her.He held back, in no hurry. She felt him ease himself onto the couch and kneel across her. All the time his tongue licked her nipples, his fingers explored her cunni, testing her wetness but not entering her. Her breathing quickened, she was near to climax. She whimpered, she needed to be filled. He would not let her come. His touch on her swollen cunni lips was feather light, then firm, then light. He seemed to sense her need and to repeatedly rouse and then deny her.She was ready. His fingers parted the soft lips of her center. The helmet of his cock butted them, sliding up and down coating itself with her dampness. He eased away from her, placed a hand to one side to take his weight, his other reaching for her thighs to open her wider before grasping his now totally rigid staff and positioning it at her entrance.She felt it, hard yet soft, probing, pushing her lips apart as the glans slowly entered, forcing deeper and deeper. There was nothing else in the world now but this manhood thrusting, filling, rewarding her. His stroke was slow, his pelvis grinding her clit. She couldn't resist. The tremors started deep inside her then rushed out to explode around his cock.He heard her cry, felt her come, but it was too soon, he wasn't ready yet. He thrust harder, faster; her beauty, her pleasure, her satisfaction were a dim, unimportant memory. All that mattered was his release. His thighs tightened, he shuddered, he whimpered. Hot and hard his seed erupted into her, filling her. He lowered his chest onto her two soft boobs and rested while his heartbeat slowed and the blood drained from his tyrannical probe.Some minutes passed before he rose, resumed his robes and removed the blindfold. “Yes, you will be a worthy Tribute. Would that we had more time to attend to your education ourselves. It would please us greatly to instruct you further. However, the Gods have ordained otherwise. You are required to leave at first light.”“No. Leave that. You deserve better,” he said as she reached to cover herself with the discarded shift. He pulled a cord by the tapestry and she heard the faint chime of a distant bell.The two vestals who had escorted her into his presence entered and genuflected. They were good looking women only a few years older than Diana.“What is the meaning of this rag?” The High Cardinal thrust the shift at them.“But, Your Grace, it is not worth giving her new robes just for the journey. Especially as we are told she will be naked for the presentation ceremony.”“But what if she is seen on the journey. What of her dignity. She deserves your respect. Both of you, remove your robes. Now!”Quaking somewhat at his anger they quickly unfastened their gowns, red with the white edging of senior vestals, and laid them before their feet.“Right,” he turned to Diana, “take your pick. Either should be a reasonable fit.Hesitantly Diana stepped to where, naked, staring at the floor, the two vestals waited. Gingerly she selected the nearest robe and swiftly lowered it over her head, grateful in the draughty room for the residual warmth of it's previous owner.Priest GeorgeThere was a sharp rap on the door. “Come!” Commanded the High Cardinal. The figure that entered was young for a senior priest being but a couple of years older than Diana's brother, but he carried himself with the assurance of one who has already received some prominence in the governing hierarchy.“Ah! George. Well timed.” The High Cardinal frowned at the two Vestals. “We will discuss your performance later. You may withdraw.”Hastily one gathered up the remaining robe and the other the rag that Diana had worn and, still naked, they hurried out of the chamber.“There she is, George,” the old man gestured toward Diana. “You may take her and be on your way. I will expect you back within three weeks.”The young priest bowed his head. “I am honored Your Grace. I will not fail the Gods.” Reaching out he took Diana's hand and drew her from the room.
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In this week's episode of Dear Lazy Black Girls, we are going to explore how to show the love we have for ourselves and for others... the lazy way. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dearlazyblackgirls/message
People who say email marketing is dead aren't using it properly. But growing a big list AND selling it can be a lot of work! Or does it? In this episode Storyteller & Launch Strategist Cody Burch joins Jerry Potter to share 6 Ways To Lazily Grow Your Email List.-----
When you turn around you are like salmon going back to from where you were spawned. You are going up against the down current of believed apparently perceivable experiences ,repetitive experience. Lazily one just follows the norm. Duality is exactly what is coming home to what one is, the ground of it all. You must discern duality from what you are. Silence ., without doing anything , moves as Light and energy in a holy instant of creation and dissolution. A flickering. This is but a flicker of a candle. beautiful poetry..absolute Reality.
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Not really every single one, because straight.el installs dependencies automatically. Here's the file I went through during this recording. Some things may have changed slightly since the time of recording. Save this file in ~/.emacs.d/init.el to reproduce my exact Emacs configuration that I use at home and at work. ;;; init.el --- This is Tiago's init.el file ;;; Commentary: ;;; Thanks to everyone that curates Emacs packages. ;;; Code: ;; BEGIN Straight.el bootstrap (defvar bootstrap-version) (let ((bootstrap-file (expand-file-name "straight/repos/straight.el/bootstrap.el" user-emacs-directory)) (bootstrap-version 6)) (unless (file-exists-p bootstrap-file) (with-current-buffer (url-retrieve-synchronously "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/radian-software/straight.el/develop/install.el" 'silent 'inhibit-cookies) (goto-char (point-max)) (eval-print-last-sexp))) (load bootstrap-file nil 'nomessage)) ;; END Straight.el bootstrap (straight-use-package 'use-package) (setq straight-use-package-by-default t) ;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; ;; > ;;; ;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; ;; Get minor modes off the modeline (use-package diminish) (use-package evil :init (setq evil-want-keybinding nil) :config (evil-mode) :custom (evil-undo-system 'undo-redo) :bind ("C-u" . evil-scroll-up)) (use-package evil-collection :diminish evil-collection-unimpaired-mode :after evil :config (evil-collection-init)) (use-package evil-surround :after evil :config (global-evil-surround-mode 1)) ;; In-Buffer Completion (use-package company :diminish :config (global-company-mode)) ;; completion with extra info box (use-package company-box :diminish :hook (company-mode . company-box-mode)) ;; Show key bindings as you go (use-package which-key :diminish :config (which-key-mode)) ;; search query feedback in the buffer (use-package anzu :diminish :config (global-anzu-mode +1)) (use-package evil-anzu) ;; Completion in the minibuffer (snippet from vertico) (use-package vertico :init (vertico-mode) ;; Different scroll margin ;; (setq vertico-scroll-margin 0) ;; Show more candidates ;; (setq vertico-count 20) ;; Grow and shrink the Vertico minibuffer ;; (setq vertico-resize t) ;; Optionally enable cycling for `vertico-next' and `vertico-previous'. ;; (setq vertico-cycle t) ) ;; Persist history over Emacs restarts. Vertico sorts by history position. ;; (use-package savehist ;; :init ;; (savehist-mode)) ;; A few more useful configurations... (use-package emacs :init ;; Add prompt indicator to `completing-read-multiple'. ;; We display [CRM], e.g., [CRM,] if the separator is a comma. (defun crm-indicator (args) (cons (format "[CRM%s] %s" (replace-regexp-in-string "`[.*?]*|[.*?]*'" "" crm-separator) (car args)) (cdr args))) (advice-add #'completing-read-multiple :filter-args #'crm-indicator) ;; Do not allow the cursor in the minibuffer prompt (setq minibuffer-prompt-properties '(read-only t cursor-intangible t face minibuffer-prompt)) (add-hook 'minibuffer-setup-hook #'cursor-intangible-mode) ;; Emacs 28: Hide commands in M-x which do not work in the current mode. ;; Vertico commands are hidden in normal buffers. ;; (setq read-extended-command-predicate ;; #'command-completion-default-include-p) ;; Enable recursive minibuffers (setq enable-recursive-minibuffers t)) ;; Optionally use the `orderless' completion style. ;; Get completion even if you type substrings that don't match in the ;; same order you typed them in. (use-package orderless :init ;; Configure a custom style dispatcher (see the Consult wiki) ;; (setq orderless-style-dispatchers '(+orderless-consult-dispatch orderless-affix-dispatch) ;; orderless-component-separator #'orderless-escapable-split-on-space) (setq completion-styles '(orderless basic) completion-category-defaults nil completion-category-overrides '((file (styles partial-completion))))) ;; Enable rich annotations in the completion (use-package marginalia ;; Either bind `marginalia-cycle' globally or only in the minibuffer :bind (("M-A" . marginalia-cycle) :map minibuffer-local-map ("M-A" . marginalia-cycle)) ;; The :init configuration is always executed (Not lazy!) :init ;; Must be in the :init section of use-package such that the mode gets ;; enabled right away. Note that this forces loading the package. (marginalia-mode)) ;; Searching commands and lots of other stuff ;; This is a snippet taken from consult (use-package consult ;; Replace bindings. Lazily loaded due by `use-package'. :bind (;; C-c bindings in `mode-specific-map' ("C-c M-x" . consult-mode-command) ("C-c h" . consult-history) ("C-c k" . consult-kmacro) ("C-c m" . consult-man) ("C-c i" . consult-info) ([remap Info-search] . consult-info) ;; C-x bindings in `ctl-x-map' ("C-x M-:" . consult-complex-command) ;; orig. repeat-complex-command ("C-x b" . consult-buffer) ;; orig. switch-to-buffer ("C-x 4 b" . consult-buffer-other-window) ;; orig. switch-to-buffer-other-window ("C-x 5 b" . consult-buffer-other-frame) ;; orig. switch-to-buffer-other-frame ("C-x r b" . consult-bookmark) ;; orig. bookmark-jump ("C-x p b" . consult-project-buffer) ;; orig. project-switch-to-buffer ;; Custom M-# bindings for fast register access ("M-#" . consult-register-load) ("M-'" . consult-register-store) ;; orig. abbrev-prefix-mark (unrelated) ("C-M-#" . consult-register) ;; Other custom bindings ("M-y" . consult-yank-pop) ;; orig. yank-pop ;; M-g bindings in `goto-map' ("M-g e" . consult-compile-error) ("M-g f" . consult-flymake) ;; Alternative: consult-flycheck ("M-g g" . consult-goto-line) ;; orig. goto-line ("M-g M-g" . consult-goto-line) ;; orig. goto-line ("M-g o" . consult-outline) ;; Alternative: consult-org-heading ("M-g m" . consult-mark) ("M-g k" . consult-global-mark) ("M-g i" . consult-imenu) ("M-g I" . consult-imenu-multi) ;; M-s bindings in `search-map' ("M-s d" . consult-find) ("M-s D" . consult-locate) ("M-s g" . consult-grep) ("M-s G" . consult-git-grep) ("M-s r" . consult-ripgrep) ("M-s l" . consult-line) ("M-s L" . consult-line-multi) ("M-s k" . consult-keep-lines) ("M-s u" . consult-focus-lines) ;; Isearch integration ("M-s e" . consult-isearch-history) :map isearch-mode-map ("M-e" . consult-isearch-history) ;; orig. isearch-edit-string ("M-s e" . consult-isearch-history) ;; orig. isearch-edit-string ("M-s l" . consult-line) ;; needed by consult-line to detect isearch ("M-s L" . consult-line-multi) ;; needed by consult-line to detect isearch ;; Minibuffer history :map minibuffer-local-map ("M-s" . consult-history) ;; orig. next-matching-history-element ("M-r" . consult-history)) ;; orig. previous-matching-history-element ;; Enable automatic preview at point in the *Completions* buffer. This is ;; relevant when you use the default completion UI. :hook (completion-list-mode . consult-preview-at-point-mode) ;; The :init configuration is always executed (Not lazy) :init ;; Optionally configure the register formatting. This improves the register ;; preview for `consult-register', `consult-register-load', ;; `consult-register-store' and the Emacs built-ins. (setq register-preview-delay 0.5 register-preview-function #'consult-register-format) ;; Optionally tweak the register preview window. ;; This adds thin lines, sorting and hides the mode line of the window. (advice-add #'register-preview :override #'consult-register-window) ;; Use Consult to select xref locations with preview (setq xref-show-xrefs-function #'consult-xref xref-show-definitions-function #'consult-xref) ;; Configure other variables and modes in the :config section, ;; after lazily loading the package. :config ;; Optionally configure preview. The default value ;; is 'any, such that any key triggers the preview. ;; (setq consult-preview-key 'any) ;; (setq consult-preview-key "M-.") ;; (setq consult-preview-key '("S-" "S-")) ;; For some commands and buffer sources it is useful to configure the ;; :preview-key on a per-command basis using the `consult-customize' macro. (consult-customize consult-theme :preview-key '(:debounce 0.2 any) consult-ripgrep consult-git-grep consult-grep consult-bookmark consult-recent-file consult-xref consult--source-bookmark consult--source-file-register consult--source-recent-file consult--source-project-recent-file ;; :preview-key "M-." :preview-key '(:debounce 0.4 any)) ;; Optionally configure the narrowing key. ;; Both < and C-+ work reasonably well. (setq consult-narrow-key "
In American sports, if you lose, you're rewarded with a higher draft pick. That means you'll sometimes see teams intentionally losing—or tanking—at the end of the year.This NBA season, we had the unique scenario where teams could tank to miss the postseason and get a better draft pick, AND other teams could try to lose to get a better matchup in the playoffs. Amazing!Plus, we're walking down Adam Sander's Rotten Tomatoes page, discussing the impracticality of milk mustaches, and dissecting the silliness of talking trash before the ball goes into the hoop.We're also taking a bit of a break while Joey traverses Europe! We'll see you again on May 16 with plenty of other grievances about sports. Until then, keep enjoying everything you watch, and always remember that sports r dumb.
SSS duty geezer Leigh Allan and his son and west coast correspondent, Will, begin the podcast with a confession and a huge apology — it turns out they're not really White Sox fans. Oh, sure, they've thought they were White Sox fans for a combined 86 years or so, what with cheering for the team and going to the games and wearing the gear and all that, but they have obviously been deluding everyone, especially themselves, because the AJAHOFBP (the new initials are for arrogant jerk a**hole) says you can't be a Sox fan if you wanted to go outside the organization for a right fielder, and, well, they have wanted just that. Of course, because the White Sox the next day went outside the organization for a potential (though long shot) right fielder, Jerry Reinsdorf and Rick Hahn must not be White Sox fans, either — though you may well have long suspected that. Confession over, the subject turns to the outside-the-organization additions of the past two days, especially Adam Haseley, who maybe might possibly sorta could turn his rapidly declining fortunes around by escaping Philadelphia for the friendlier crowds of Chicago. Then it's on to the (admittedly often meaningless) spring training results so far, especially the amazing seven-hit, seven-K and nothing else showing of Micker Adolfo, and the only lightly less impressive performances of Eloy Jiménez, Andrew Vaughn and Tim Anderson (whilst gliding over the less auspicious springs of half a dozen teammates). On the pitching side, the two mostly fret over the non-appearance of Michael Kopech so far, especially his statement about being tired after throwing some batting practice — not a great encouragement given he had COVID over the winter. And, of course, they continue to be amazed that Vince Velasquez and Craig Kimbrel are somehow cluttering up the roster. Oh, and there was of course despair over the backup catcher situation. But that's not exactly news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
When men were all asleep the snow came flying, In large white flakes falling on the city brown, Stealthily and perpetually settling and loosely lying, Hushing the latest traffic of the drowsy town; Deadening, muffling, stifling its murmurs failing; Lazily and incessantly floating down and down: Silently sifting and veiling road, roof and railing; Hiding difference, making unevenness even, Into angles and crevices softly drifting and sailing. All night it fell, and when full inches seven It lay in the depth of its uncompacted lightness, The clouds blew off from a high and frosty heaven; And all woke earlier for the unaccustomed brightness Of the winter dawning, the strange unheavenly glare: The eye marvelled—marvelled at the dazzling whiteness; The ear hearkened to the stillness of the solemn air; No sound of wheel rumbling nor of foot falling, And the busy morning cries came thin and spare. Then boys I heard, as they went to school, calling, They gathered up the crystal manna to freeze Their tongues with tasting, their hands with snowballing; Or rioted in a drift, plunging up to the knees; Or peering up from under the white-mossed wonder, ‘O look at the trees!' they cried, ‘O look at the trees!' With lessened load a few carts creak and blunder, Following along the white deserted way, A country company long dispersed asunder: When now already the sun, in pale display Standing by Paul's high dome, spread forth below His sparkling beams, and awoke the stir of the day. For now doors open, and war is waged with the snow; And trains of sombre men, past tale of number, Tread long brown paths, as toward their toil they go: But even for them awhile no cares encumber Their minds diverted; the daily word is unspoken, The daily thoughts of labour and sorrow slumber At the sight of the beauty that greets them, for the charm they have broken.
DAILY NUGS: Two CEOs lose their lazily fought battle with COVID, the Founder Fetish finally gets the academic attention it deserves, and McDonald's locations in Japan are running out of french fries
Join Carmen and her friend Jessica, creator of the Lazily Organic blog as they discuss the culture shock of moving to different countries and regions with some laughter, and of course; ways to be lazily organic. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/carmen-white2/support
Ced continues to try to convince Jacob that Carl Winslow was a good tv dad. The guys discuss the Takeover 36 card including how Walter and Dragunov can steal the show and one up their classic from October. How the build between Dakota Kai and Raquel Gonzalez is ass-backward at best. The possibility of Cameron Grimes finally beating LA Knight If Adam Cole's contract status has any bearing on the result of his match with Kyle O'Reilly Lastly, will Joe and Kross deliver or will we get a dud or a muddy finish? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Valentine is in the house. We attempt to clear Cam's confusion. Oppression is solved. MJ celebrates a new agenda. The post 578: Lazily Oppressed first appeared on The Doctor AbrACEive Network.
Mike, Nick, and Keegan go over some of the French spoiled cards for the AA5, and we discuss the role each corp trooper has for their respective faction. Later, we unveil some Legion 99 merch, and Nick interviews Kicker from Frontline Gaming ahead of their Atlantic City Open event! 1:08 AA5 Discussion 11:15 Brief Bat Reps using Lando 22:10 Rebel Corp 38:26 Empire Corp 52:00 CIS Corp 1:04:39 GAR Corp 1:18:22 Legion 99 Merch 1:20:19 Interview with Kicker form Frontline Gaming
In this surprise, bonus episode, Cameron tricks Bryan into recording an extra Pod-Cast episode, when in reality it's actually the FIRST of our HEROES OF THE STORM SEMI-ANNUAL TRIVIA GAMESHOW! It's… EXACTLY what it sounds like! Cameron spends nearly 45 minutes testing Bryan's HotS knowledge, and in the end, SOMEONE has to play the Lost Vikings in Quick Match. What a WORLD. SORRY about all the CAPS in this EPISODE. I”M EXCITED. If… if you don't like Heroes of the Storm, literally no one would blame you for not listening to this. Lazily edited by Cameron. Our theme music is The Olive Gang by coda. All other music is from the Heroes of the Storm Youtube.
Jacob Delawrence is riding solo this week and decided to give the people a look into TakeOver 31. Jacob analyzes each match on the card and gives his and Cedric's predictions for the event.In search of a recap of the NXT go home show? The podcast tag team champs were guests on Draped In Gold this week. Check out the show and all the slanderous fun at the link below:Draped In Gold with Flobo Boyce and Jack Farmer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF40wuQW_0Q
Hebrews 10:35 This guided audio meditation from Hebrews 10 is designed to help you pause amid the rush of a hectic pace and receive patience from God as you take some time to float lazily along. Does Encounter help you rest in the Lord? Please consider giving! When did you last intentionally slow down?
Sponsored by us! Talk Python courses & pytest book. Topic #0: Quick chat about COVID 19. Brian #1: Documentation as a way to build Community Melissa Mendonça “… educational materials can have a huge impact and effectively bring people into the community.” Quality documentation for OSS is often lacking due to: decentralized development documentation is not as glamorous or as praised as new features or major bug fixes “Even when the community is welcoming, documentation is often seen as a "good first issue", meaning that the docs end up being written by the least experienced contributors in the community.” Possible solution: organize/re-organize docs into: tutorials how-tos reference guide explanations consequences: Improving on the quality and discoverability Clear difference between docs aimed at different users Give users more opportunities to contribute, generating content that can be shared directly on the official documentation Building a documentation team as a first-class team in the project, which helps create an explicit role as documentation creator. This helps people better identify how they can contribute beyond code. Diversifying our contributor base, allowing people from different levels of expertise and different life experiences to contribute. This is also extremely important so that we have a better understanding of our community and can be accessible, unbiased and welcoming to all people. Referenced in article: "What nobody tells you about documentation" Michael #2: The Django Speed Handbook: making a Django app faster By Shibel Mansour Speed of your app is very important: 100ms is an eternity. SEO, user conversions, bounce rates, etc. Use the tried-and-true django-debug-toolbar. Analyze your request/response cycles and see where most of the time is spent. Provides database query execution times and provides a nice SQL EXPLAIN in a separate pane that appears in the browser. ORM/Database: Two ORM functionalities I want to mention first: these are select_related and prefetch_related. Nice 24x perf improvement example in the article. Basically, beware of the N+1 problem. Indexes: Be sure to add them but they slow writes. Pagination: Use it if you have lots of data Async / background tasks. Content size: Shrunk 9x by adding gzip middleware Static files: minify and bundle as you can, cache, serve through nginx, etc. At Python Bytes, Talk Python, etc, we use webassets, cssmin, and jsmin. PageSpeed from Google, talk python’s ranking. ImageOptim (for macOS, others) Lazy-loading images: Lazily loading images means that we only request them when or a little before they enter the client’s (user’s) viewport. With excellent, dependency-free JavaScript libraries like LazyLoad, there really isn’t an excuse to not lazy-load images. Moreover, Google Chrome natively supports the lazy attribute. Remember: Test and measure everything, before and after. Brian #3: dacite: simplifies creation of data classes from dictionaries Konrad Hałas dataclasses are awesome quick and easy fields can have default values be excluded from comparison and/or repr and more data often gets to us in dictionaries Converting from dict to dataclass is trivial for trivial cases: x = MyClass(**data_as_dict) For more complicated conversions, you need dacite dacite.from_dict supports: nested structures optional fields and unions collections type_hooks, which allow you to have custom converters for certain types strict mode. Normally allows extra input data that is just ignored if it doesn’t match up with fields. But you can use strict to not allow that. Raises exceptions when something weird happens, like the wrong type, missing values, etc. Michael #4: How we retired Python 2 and improved developer happiness By Barry Warsaw The Python Clock is at 0:00. In 2018, LinkedIn embarked on a multi-quarter effort to fully transition to a Python 3 code base. In total, the effort entailed the migration of about 550 code repositories. They don't use Python in our product or as a monolithic web service, and instead have hundreds of independent microservices and tools, and dozens of supporting libraries, all owned by independent teams in separate repositories. In the early days, most of internal libraries were ported to be “bilingual,” meaning they could be used in either Python 2 or 3. Given that the migration affected all of LinkedIn engineering across so many disparate teams and thousands of engineers, the effort was overseen by our Horizontal Initiatives (HI) program. Phase 1: In the first quarter of 2019, we performed detailed dependency graphing, identifying a number of repositories that were more foundational, and thus needed to be fully ported first because they blocked the ports of everything that depended on them. Phase 2: In the second quarter of 2019, we identified the remainder of repositories that needed porting Post-migration reflections: Our primary indicator for completing the migration of a multiproduct was that it built successfully and passed its unit and integration tests. For other organizations planning or in the midst of their own migration paths, we offer the following guidelines: Plan early, and engage your organization’s Python experts. Find and leverage champions in your affected teams, and promote the benefits of Python 3. Adopt the bilingual approach to supporting libraries so that consumers of your libraries can port to Python 3 on their own schedules. Invest in tests and code coverage—these will be your best success metrics. Ensure that your data models are explicit and clear, especially in identifying which data are bytes and which are human-readable text. Benefits: No longer have to worry about supporting Python 2 and have seen our support loads decrease. Can now depend on the latest open source libraries and tools, and free from the constrictions of having to write bilingual Python. Opportunistically and enthusiastically adopting type hinting and the mypy type checker, improving the overall quality, craft, and readability of Python code bases. Brian #5: The Troublesome Active Record Pattern Cal Paterson "Object relational mappers" (ORMs) exist to bridge the gap between the programmers' friend (the object), and the database's primitive (the relation). Examples include Django ORM and SQLAlchemy The Active Record pattern of data access is marked by: A whole-object basis Access by key (mostly primary key) Problem: Queries that don’t need all information for objects retrieve it all anyway, and it’s easy to code for loops to select or collect info that are wildly inefficient. how many books are there how many books about software testing written by Oregon authors Problem: transactions. people can forget to use transactions, some ORMs don’t support them, they are not taught in beginner tutorials, etc. SQLAlchemy has sessions Django has atomic() REST APIs can suffer the same problems. Solutions: just use SQL first class queries first class transactions avoid Active Record style access patterns Be careful with REST APIs Alternatives: GraphQL RPC-style APIs Michael #6: Types at the edges in Python By Steve Brazier For a new web service in python there are 3 things to start with: Pydantic mypy Production error tracking of some kind Why: Because what is this about? AttributeError: 'NoneType' object has no attribute 'strip' It should be: none is not an allowed value (type=type_error.none.not_allowed) We then launch this code into production and our assumptions are tested against reality. If we’re lucky our assumptions turn out to be correct. If not we likely encounter some cryptic NoneType errors like the one at the start of this post. Pydantic can help by formalizing our assumptions. mypy carries on helping: Once you see the error at the start of this post (thanks error reporting) you know what is wrong about assumptions. Make the following change to your code: field: typing.Optional[str] BTW: FastAPI integrates with Pydantic out of the box. A mini-kata like exercise here that can be worked through: meadsteve/types-at-the-edges-minikata Extras: Michael: Python Bytes Awesome Package List by Jack Mckew Visual Basic Will Stall Out With .NET 5 COVID 19 data sets New course in dev: Adding a CMS to Your Data-Driven Web App [in Pyramid|Flask] Joke:
From composerjk: Lazily Destruct Lazily Destruct More on http://songaday.netscrap.com
Join us as we’re joined by our guest Skye and Crispy to talk about various topics around gaming, pop culture, and recent events. Want to be on an episode? Message us on Discord or Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/House-of-Pineapple-1010957852423363/ https://discord.gg/K2yWGUH
Day 196 of the podcast, reading Proverbs 22-23 NET, read along at: https://netbible.org/bible/Proverbs+22-23/ This is day 196 of our journey. Today's proverbs are the wise words of a father addressing his son. The father gives insight into the types of people to interact with and the proper things to focus upon. The wealth and delicacies of the rich are tempting, but striving for them only leads to ruin. Lazily making excuses to not work will equally lead to ruin. Carry yourself with wisdom, prudence, and balance. Join me in Proverbs 22-23 and heed the wise advice of the Lord. Key verses: Proverbs 22:9 A generous person will be blessed, for he has given some of his food to the poor. Proverbs 23:4 Do not wear yourself out to become rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. All Scriptures are from the NET.
In this episode, we explore what it means to be a spiritual warrior. We look at what Buddha described as the real enemy of living beings is and how we can help all living beings. Buddha taught that our only real enemy is our mental afflictions, such as our habits of anger, attachment, jealousy and selfishness. These destroy our inner peace and cause us to harm others. As the Buddhist Master, Shantideva, said: “Enemies such as hatred and craving Have neither feet nor hands, And are neither brave nor intelligent. How, then, have they enslaved me?”—Shantideva First we study the remedies for our mental afflictions. For example, patience and compassion overcomes anger and cherishing others remedies selfishness. This week, we try to battle our habit of selfishness. We put on the armor of compassion, and, with mindfulness, we remember to cherish others instead of following selfish intention. Becoming A spiritual Warrior Identify the enemy (our mental afflictions such as anger, attachment and selfishness) Put on the armor of compassion. Hold fast to the weapon of mindfulness and battle our mental afflictions. “When practitioners battle their afflictions, they must persevere as they become proficient in two things—taking defensive precautions and thus avoiding a wound to their mind, and, on the offensive, destroying the afflictions by applying their remedies.” -Je Tspngkhapa “Selfishness, self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our troubles.” --Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Edition, How It Works, pg. 62~ Better than one hundred years lived Lazily and lacking in effort Is one day lived With vigor and exertion. --Buddha, The Dhammapada, References Buddha. The Dhammapada, translated by Gil Fronsdale. Chapter 8, Verse 112. Je Tsongkhapa. Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, Volume 2. Pages 181-208. Translated by the Lamrim Chenmo Translation Committee. Joshua Cutler, Editor-in-Chief, and Guy Newlan, Editor.
The Fellows are further into the Tomb of Horrors than ever before but there are still many devious traps and riddles between them and their ultimate nemesis Anorak! Kayne punches a yoghurt, Aurelia goes acid fishing, Ada shows off her long jump, and Cinder swears at a snake. GraveAmbition / Twitter / Facebook
Matt and Addison once again betray Dano by starting the show without him. He does, however join, and a nice long episode ensues. Follow Matt (@Suburban_Wizard) and Addison (@AddisonTodd) on Twitter. Follow the show on Twitter: @GiveThoughtShow… The post GTST Episode 173: DJ Lazily Baked Rolls first appeared on Tripod Broadcasting.
Matt and Addison once again betray Dano by starting the show without him. He does, however join, and a nice long episode ensues. Follow Matt (@Suburban_Wizard) and Addison (@AddisonTodd) on Twitter. Follow the show on Twitter: @GiveThoughtShow…
The Relatively Speaking Podcast in all its glory, which means you get to enter the weekend with a solid case of the giggles. The New York Knicks are off to a rather surprisingly solid start. However, one Mr. Phil Jackson keeps opening up his mouth-hole to discuss things with the media he probably shouldn't. His latest being the president of basketball operations calling Carmelo Anthony a player who holds on to the ball too much... which is odd when you consider there are two other people on his team who hold the ball longer than him. Do the Los Angeles Clippers stink? No! Lazily crowd sourced segment Ask Me Anything is back (with fake Seal, of course) this week. "Do you think Chris Paul ever wins a championship in such a crowded competitive conference?" "At what point do the Clippers consider getting something for CP3 and BG before they leave in seven months?" "Am I allowed to believe the NBA is fixed to get big market teams against each other in 6/7 game series?" The guys answer those questions in earnest. We'd like to say that the show ended with Jared and Joseph's Week 14 NFL picks, but that would only be a half-truth. After discussing about Joseph's dominance over Jared in the standings, the greatest NFL game-picker this side of Al Pacino in Two For The Money asks Jared a very random, very absurd, very unsettling question. What was the question? Listen if you want to find out! I mean, you can just fast-forward toward the end if you're that impatient.
The Relatively Speaking Podcast in all its glory, which means you get to enter the weekend with a solid case of the giggles. The New York Knicks are off to a rather surprisingly solid start. However, one Mr. Phil Jackson keeps opening up his mouth-hole to discuss things with the media he probably shouldn't. His latest being the president of basketball operations calling Carmelo Anthony a player who holds on to the ball too much... which is odd when you consider there are two other people on his team who hold the ball longer than him. Do the Los Angeles Clippers stink? No! Lazily crowd sourced segment Ask Me Anything is back (with fake Seal, of course) this week. "Do you think Chris Paul ever wins a championship in such a crowded competitive conference?" "At what point do the Clippers consider getting something for CP3 and BG before they leave in seven months?" "Am I allowed to believe the NBA is fixed to get big market teams against each other in 6/7 game series?" The guys answer those questions in earnest. We'd like to say that the show ended with Jared and Joseph's Week 14 NFL picks, but that would only be a half-truth. After discussing about Joseph's dominance over Jared in the standings, the greatest NFL game-picker this side of Al Pacino in Two For The Money asks Jared a very random, very absurd, very unsettling question. What was the question? Listen if you want to find out! I mean, you can just fast-forward toward the end if you're that impatient.
The 2012 Pirate Bar Set I am back in Greece in the magnificent island of Hydra but sadly for one day only. It is summer, I felt a sun-drenched, beach house set was “de rigueur”. I prepared 120 minutes of melodic chilled house, hoping to drop the set at the best bar in Greece., the Pirate Bar. As a “Pirate Bar” set is becoming a yearly fixture for me, get ready, close your eyes and picture THIS: You start in the bliss of your hammock, shaded by a parasol, your skin softened by the Mediterranean sun. From the bliss of your afternoon rest, your head start shifting sensually to the right, to the left, with that distinctive shoulder roll. Your eyes still closed, you smile, you just smile to the music.. Lazily sipping your frappe, you notice your feet rhythmically bouncing to the measure of those summer beats. Incrementally, your feet, your hands, your soul cannot resist… You stand up, arch your back and just know that you should let the music use you. Your hands up in the air now lasciviously following the sound, you start dancing on your feet, light in your head, soaking in the pure hedonistic pleasure of the summer sun and summer grooves. This is what happens at the Pirate Bar in Hydra… Go and see my friends Wendy, Zara, Zef and Takis and enjoy the very best hospitality Greece can offer.. Playiist Intro The Movement (Speechacapella), Jonathan Ulysses 2012 Sage Comme Une Image (Spiller Remix) [Xtian Edit] . Bottin feat. Jupiter 2011 The Energy (Ocean Deep Afro Rebel Music Mix). Oscar P & Rocco feat. Mj White 2012 When it Flows feat. Pablo Fierro (Soul Minority Remix). Edmund 2012 Summer Night (Main Mix) [Xtian Divine Edit feat. Roland Clarke]. Soulc 2012 Real Love.. Franky Rizardo 2012 Cali (Original Mix) [Xtian Love Supreme Edit feat. The Groovenauts]. DJ Fudge 2012 Deeper Life [Xtian Love Supreme Edit feat. The Groovenauts]. 4 Da People 2012 Giving You The Light (Shane D. Remix). Loui and Scibi feat.. Nathalia 2012 Sundown (Part II) [Xtian Mash-up attempt feat. Akabu The Phuture Ain’t What It Used To Be Accapella] . Grant Nelson 2012 Save (Original Mix) [Xtian The DJs Calling Edit feat. Dragonfly].John Julius Knight 2011 Need U Back (U-Ness & Jedset Soulheaters Mix). Jonny Montana & Craig Stewart feat. Sofia Rubina 2011 Music is High (U-Ness & Jedset Classic Dub). Junior Rex feat. Rhalmia 2012 Without you (Jamie Lewis Mastermix) [Xtian Serenity Edit]. Jamie Lewis & Marc Evans Highlights: Loving the little French tune “Sage Comme un Image”, which I thought would set the light vibe I wanted to share.. “The Energy” from Oscar P and Rocco is a solid deep sensual track with “When it Flows” from Edmund and “ Summer Night“ anchoring the set in the summer vibe. With “Real Love” by Frankie Rizado, we are starting to wake up with a slightly techie gem. I do like the feel of my edit of “Cali” by DJ Fudge. The original is perfect but you all know my addiction to acapellas.. with Deeper Life continuing the Deep techie groove with a massive bassline. “Giving You The Light” (Shane D Remix)… this is the track that get’s you on your feet.. Perfect summer tune! And when you have Shane D, you know Grant Nelson cannot be too far away.. I am not sure that my attempt at mashing up Grant’s “Sundown” and “The Phuture Ain’t…” was absolutely necessary but the Boy needs to try all those buttons on the deck.. “Save” by John Julius Knight is irresistible.. You NEED to pick up the sampling, it is pure genius.. “I Need U Back” and “Music is High” are happy house tunes, with very, very clever pads. To close the mix we have the holy trinity: Purple Music, Jamie Lewis and Marc Evans.. House royalty.. Who can resist the Deepness of Marc Evans voice.. Not ME!! Without You will become a Marc Evans classic and you heard it first here! I actually give myself kudos for the little “Serenity” sample. This was the 2012 Pirate Bar Set…Come to the Pirate Bar, come to Hydra, come to Greece.. The Pirate Bar on the Web: http://www.piratebar.gr The Pirate Bar on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Pirate-Bar-Hydra-Greece/223081831039926 Xtian
R Bridges read by Classic Poetry Aloud: Giving voice to the poetry of the past. www.classicpoetryaloud.com -------------------------------------------- London Snow by Robert Bridges (1844 – 1930) When men were all asleep the snow came flying, In large white flakes falling on the city brown, Stealthily and perpetually settling and loosely lying, Hushing the latest traffic of the drowsy town; Deadening, muffling, stifling its murmurs failing; Lazily and incessantly floating down and down: Silently sifting and veiling road, roof and railing; Hiding difference, making unevenness even, Into angles and crevices softly drifting and sailing. All night it fell, and when full inches seven It lay in the depth of its uncompacted lightness, The clouds blew off from a high and frosty heaven; And all woke earlier for the unaccustomed brightness Of the winter dawning, the strange unheavenly glare: The eye marvelled - marvelled at the dazzling whiteness; The ear hearkened to the stillness of the solemn air; No sound of wheel rumbling nor of foot falling, And the busy morning cries came thin and spare. Then boys I heard, as they went to school, calling, They gathered up the crystal manna to freeze Their tongues with tasting, their hands with snowballing; Or rioted in a drift, plunging up to the knees; Or peering up from under the white-mossed wonder!' 'O look at the trees!' they cried, 'O look at the trees!' With lessened load a few carts creak and blunder, Following along the white deserted way, A country company long dispersed asunder: When now already the sun, in pale display Standing by Paul's high dome, spread forth below His sparkling beams, and awoke the stir of the day. For now doors open, and war is waged with the snow; And trains of sombre men, past tale of number, Tread long brown paths, as toward their toil they go: But even for them awhile no cares encumber Their minds diverted; the daily word is unspoken, The daily thoughts of labour and sorrow slumber At the sight of the beauty that greets them, for the charm they have broken. First aired: 30 December 2007 For hundreds more poetry readings, visit the Classic Poetry Aloud index. Reading © Classic Poetry Aloud 2008