tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71973979953188690242024-03-05T22:40:57.570-05:00THE LIVING RICEA Filipino-American Dad Blog on Faith, Family and CultureJason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01101539679542943675noreply@blogger.comBlogger397125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-79146489626865829892024-02-12T08:00:00.011-05:002024-02-12T08:00:00.137-05:00The Rift Between Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Former President Rodrigo Duterte: What Does It Mean and Why Does It Matter?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.reuters.com/resizer/jHB2Kp8PiqxRfDfRZVbhWsh6URU=/960x0/filters:quality(80)/cloudfront-us-east-2.images.arcpublishing.com/reuters/SX3E73AIFROMHJJXUV2EBZY5GU.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://www.reuters.com/resizer/jHB2Kp8PiqxRfDfRZVbhWsh6URU=/960x0/filters:quality(80)/cloudfront-us-east-2.images.arcpublishing.com/reuters/SX3E73AIFROMHJJXUV2EBZY5GU.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo(s): Reuters</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>You might have <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/open-warfare-philippines-marcos-duterte-alliance-crumbles-2024-02-02/">heard</a> about the recent rift between Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and former President Rodrigo Duterte - both belong to prominent political family dynasties in the Philippines. But what does this all mean, and why does it matter?<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>Let's start with the basics. A political dynasty is when one family or a few closely related families hold onto power for a long time, passing it down from one generation to the next like a family heirloom. </p><p>Why is this such a big deal? Isn't it just normal for families to be involved in politics? Well, here's the thing: political dynasties can lead to a whole bunch of problems. Think corruption, injustice, and undemocratic governance. Not exactly the recipe for a fair and just society.</p><p>Political dynasties goes way back, even to biblical times. In the Bible, we see stories of how political dynasties led to all sorts of trouble for the people of Israel (1 Samuel 8:1-9). It's like history repeating itself, but with a Filipino twist.</p><p>So, what can we do about this? How can we change the status quo and create a better future for our country? As citizens, you have the power to make a difference. By standing up for what's right and holding our leaders accountable, we can help break the cycle of political dynasties and create a more inclusive and democratic society.</p><p>But it's not just about holding our leaders accountable; it's also about leading by example. That's where servant-leadership principles come in. Inspired by Jesus Christ, servant-leadership is all about putting others before ourselves and serving our communities with humility and compassion.</p><p>So, let's channel our inner servant-leader and work together to build a brighter future for the Philippines. Together, we can break the chains of political dynasties and create a more just and equitable society for all.</p><p>What do you think?</p><p>Listen to The Howie Severino Podcast for a more in-depth discussion and analysis of the situation:</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-happening-to-the-marcos-duterte-alliance-up/id1561087938?i=1000644508358">What’s happening to the Marcos-Duterte alliance? — UP political scientist Aries Arugay | Part 1</a></p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-should-bbm-handle-digong-up-political-scientist/id1561087938?i=1000644653392">How should BBM handle Digong? – UP political scientist Aries Arugay | Part 2</a></p>Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-66766491254989307652024-02-09T10:17:00.000-05:002024-02-09T10:17:13.095-05:002024 Is The Year Of Celebrity Showbiz Breakups in the Philippines? <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://contents.pep.ph/images2/images2/2024/02/09/love-1707415614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://contents.pep.ph/images2/images2/2024/02/09/love-1707415614.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 600; text-align: start; text-transform: uppercase; white-space-collapse: preserve;">PHOTO/S: TIM MOSSHOLDER ON UNSPLASH</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p>According to <a href="https://www.pep.ph/news/local/177783/luck-love-year-of-the-wood-dragon-a755-20240209?ref=home_feed_2">PEP.ph</a>, more and more Philippine showbiz couples are breaking up these days and more are predicted to come in 2024. We can only speculate on the many reasons that probably played a role in these highly-publicized breakups. But should we care that relationships are getting shorter? Well, it depends on why we date in the first place. What's the whole point of relationships anyway? If you think life is all about making yourself happy, then there's no "right" or "wrong" way to live. However, if life's meaning comes from appreciating the good things around us and making the world a little better, then activities like dating, relationships, school, hobbies, friendships, having kids someday, or even just being yourself take on more purpose.</p><p><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>Having a purpose doesn't mean everything will turn out great, of course. But it can give direction to make the most out of whatever situation you're in. Like anything involving people, relationships aren't perfect. But the basic reason humans were created in the first place remains. Jesus' life and message aim to redeem all of creation - including our relationship with each other.</p><p>Share you thoughts.</p>Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-8844787044243673412024-02-01T16:45:00.001-05:002024-02-01T16:45:37.130-05:00You Wanna Be On Top? Philippines Ranks 115th In Corruption index<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://media.philstar.com/photos/2024/02/01/philstar2020-01-2322-50-59_2024-02-01_23-17-43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="600" height="274" src="https://media.philstar.com/photos/2024/02/01/philstar2020-01-2322-50-59_2024-02-01_23-17-43.jpg" title="Photo source: Philstar.com" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo source: Philstar.com</span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p><i>Hey everyone! Guess who's back to blogging after five years? Yep, that's right – and what better way to dive back in than exploring the perceptions of corruption in the Philippines and hope for a brighter tomorrow. It's good to be back! (A big thank you to Ruth Dalman for checking in and asking me when I'll be back blogging).</i></p><p>I stumbled upon this <a href="https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/02/02/2330352/philippines-ranks-115th-corruption-index" target="_blank">article from The Philippine Star </a>talking about how the Philippines is doing in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI). The score went up a bit from 33 to 34 in 2023, but we're still below the global average of 43. We're hanging around 115th out of 180 countries, just a bit better than 2022's 116th place. The index looks at how people see corruption in the government, and a lower score is not good news. What's interesting is that lots of countries around the world are struggling with corruption, and most of them are scoring below 50. The Philippines has been stuck in this not-so-great ranking for a while.</p><p>So, what can we do about it? It seems like the Philippines need a big plan. It's not just about numbers; it's about leaders showing Filipinos how to do the right thing. Maybe we should start learning about good morals and ethics early on, like in school. Local communities, like local churches, could help band together and fight against corruption. We need the government to be more open about what they're doing and be accountable for it. And you know what? Prayer and thinking about the right thing to do should be part of making decisions too. It's time for us, the regular Filipinos around the world, to stand up and say no to corruption, with the help of groups who care about our country. And businesses? They need to be fair and ethical too, no room for cheating in the business and capitalists world. Let's team up and make the Philippines a place where doing the right thing is just how we roll to the top of the list.</p>Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-81905379081437921752017-04-16T18:56:00.000-04:002017-04-16T18:56:52.978-04:00Living Homeless in San Diego<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Last February, I was living as a homeless man on the streets of San Diego, California. Check out the homemade slide show above using the video editing app, <a href="https://spliceapp.com/">Splice</a>.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">It was a thoughtful conscious choice to plunged into homelessness for one week because of my friend Ed </span>Pelzner<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">. Originally from Reston, Ed has been missing since 2014. The last confirmed information about him was he was living on the streets of San Diego and he's a meth addict. Ed's best friend Will </span>Cravens,<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> has been on a journey to find Ed since he disappeared. He would fly out of Northern Virginia to San Diego at least twice a year and would live on the streets to have closer access, gain trust and built street credibility among homeless people. He serves and volunteers at the different institutions that </span>help<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> the homeless at the same time. When I heard Ed's story one Sunday morning, I knew right away that I want to get into action and be part of a meaningful mission. (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVJFtCl_N6w">Check out this ABC 10 News report from 2015 on the search for Ed</a>)</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Along with other 8 individuals, we divided into groups of three to begin the journey to search for a missing friend. I entered the world of the unemployed, addicts, mentally disabled, felons and those who are simply trying to survive the streets. I have no credit cards and cash. I have some basic toiletries and a cellphone to document my trip and reserved only to use for emergencies. I wore the same clothes for five days and four nights, in 40 degrees evening temperature equipped with a sleeping bag, sleeping pad and a tarp to keep me warm and dry at night. With just a photocopy of my driver's license and nothing more, I would need to survive on the streets of San Diego not knowing whether or where I would eat or sleep, and what or who I would encounter. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Our team avoided sleeping at homeless shelters so we won’t take up space from real homeless people who legitimately need a bed to sleep in. A local volunteer was kind enough to let us sleep </span>on<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> their back yard and someone tipped us that a local church accepts homeless people to sleep in their empty gym and shed.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">There are more than 10,000 homeless people in San Diego. I was taken aback by the hundreds of people lying on the pavement and makeshift shelters along on sidewalk of downtown San Diego. The men looked rough and unshaven and the women looked ragged and unkempt. I would walk at least 10 miles per day and eat at soup kitchens mostly organized by local houses of worship. I would fall in line with other homeless people for a free meal. I shared meals with them and heard stories of lives on the street. I would volunteer to clean up the dining hall and the kitchen to provide local volunteers an extra set of hands to complete their work. </span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">My interaction with a homeless person consists of showing a photo of Ed, asking if he or she have seen Ed and introduce myself as someone from the East coast living on the streets for a week to find him. If the person was receptive, I would engage in a conversation asking where they were from, what brought them to the streets and their issues and concerns as a homeless person. Many I talked too became homeless because of unemployment, a nasty divorce, crime, mental illness, alcoholism and drug addiction. Some homeless by choice because they can't pay rent or afford a house. Common problems on the street are, the lack of dry and warm places to sleep in, poor access to food and medicines, drugs, rain, being arrested by the police and loneliness. I would refer the homeless person to local charities and shelters if necessary and I end my conversation with a handshake or a hug. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">The reaction was mixed. Many were impressed and touched by what I do to find Ed. They were engaging and ready to give me leads on where I could find Ed or where to look next. Some were also skeptical. They can't comprehend why someone from the East coast would get off from work, leave home to travel to California and sacrifice their comforts to live on the streets to find a missing person.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I was surprised how drug use was very open within the homeless population in San Diego. I would see homeless people smoking weed and snorting cocaine outside Starbucks. I walked around and a stranger will offer me to buy weed. There were trailer vans parked on the street that was obviously being used as drug joints and meth labs.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I agree with a local volunteer who told me that meth is an "epidemic" in San Diego's homeless communities. The meth users I met appeared underweight and undernourished. Their eyes were dilated, front teeth were missing, face and body were twitchy. They have burn marks all over their body and skin sores or lesions on their face and arms from picking at the skin with their fingernails. Some seem to be extremely energetic but many display nervousness, disorganized thoughts, paranoia and psychotic behaviors. Some of the meth addicts were safe to approach and hang out with but some were deranged and I just avoid them.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">To be part of the journey to find Ed was a profound and moving experience. The value I put on “stuff” disappears when I lived off a backpack for a week and got stripped off of my money and identity. I was humbled to be dependent on soup kitchens and charities for meals. It was a bit degrading to when people refuse to make eye contact and look away. While I was using a public bathroom in a train station, an angry businessman started cussing at me and told me I should do my toilet business outside. That moment, I realized everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect regardless of how the person makes one uncomfortable.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I was heartbroken to witness the despair of homeless people, their poor living condition, the consequences of their poor life choices, and the devastating effects of illegal drugs. But I was also encouraged to meet local volunteers who </span>devotes<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> their time to serve the homeless. Some were former drug addicts, felons and homeless sharing hope to others and dedicating their lives to give back. I made it a priority to say "you're doing a great job" to every child volunteer I see at soup kitchens. It was a delight to see their big smiles every time they hear those words from me as a homeless person. </span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Ed Pelzer is a meth addict and every day we don't find him is a push deeper into the destructive black hole of drug addiction. Unfortunately, our team didn't find Ed on this trip. But we found many homeless people who are an "Ed" to a family and are waiting for their "Ed" to also come home and get rehabilitated.</span><br style="color: #222222;" /><br style="color: #222222;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">When I got home, family and friends asked what I learned from living on the streets for a week. Here are my thoughts:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not judge. Treat all human beings with dignity and respect regardless of their life's condition.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not look away when you see a homeless person. If you can't give money, a look or a smile is good enough even if you think you cannot help.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you don't want to give cash, give a gift card to a fast food or grocery store. The gift card will also allow the homeless to use the store's bathroom.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don't worry too much about giving cash to homeless. Giving is always the right thing to do regardless of the outcome.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Donate blankets and clothing you no longer use. Warm and practical clothing are needed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Financially support program and institutions that help the homeless such as soup kitchens, shelters, women crisis center and the like.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Volunteer at soup kitchens. You can help buy supplies, help prepare and distribute meals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Stay away from illegal drugs.</span></li>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-26379431913036966402017-03-16T05:45:00.005-04:002017-03-16T05:47:10.094-04:00National Geographic Takes a Closer Look at the War on Drugs in the Philippines<span style="background-color: #fefefe; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">CBS News interviewed National Geographic correspondent Ryan Duffy whose recently aired film takes a closer look at President Rodrigo Duterte's deadly war on drugs. In this video, Duffy shares what he learned in the controversial war.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fefefe;">I support the war on drugs in the Philippines but the extra-judicial sheds a bad light on the President Duterte's positive cause to bring change in the Philippines. The killings are cruel and go against the Biblical principle that every life is sacred and endowed with inalienable dignity.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fefefe;">This reminded me of a good advice I heard from a friend, to not trade cruelty for another. Because if we think we can remain the good guys while giving up our principles, the odds of winning a cause aren’t in our favor.</span></span></div>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-49118899188614443742017-02-12T05:58:00.002-05:002017-02-23T11:58:49.561-05:00Next Mission: Help Find EdJoining some friends this week to look for Ed in San Diego and serve the homeless along the way.<br />
Just as I want others to do if I were lost.<br />
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-47331659184685472242017-01-04T15:43:00.001-05:002017-01-04T15:43:13.253-05:00Greg’s Story – Most Successful Male P*rn Star Of All Time Speaks Out On P*rn<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">In the 1980's, Greg moved to California to become an actor. When the writer's strike hit, Greg was forced to find other work. Starving and broke, Greg had no idea that one business card would lead him to becoming "the most popular, most decorated male p*rn star of all time. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">He said it well... "if I can change my heart, anybody can." Thanks for sharing your story.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Learn more about the harms of p*rn at: </span><a class=" yt-uix-servicelink " data-servicelink="CDEQ6TgiEwjv66rSq6nRAhUpnpwKHXhCA1ko-B0" data-target-new-window="True" data-url="http://www.fightthenewdrug.org" href="http://www.fightthenewdrug.org/" rel="nofollow" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #167ac6; cursor: pointer; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.fightthenewdrug.org</a></div>
Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-12577974427911919452016-11-21T23:02:00.000-05:002016-11-21T23:02:04.802-05:00On the Burial of Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
As an Alumni of UP Integrated School, which is celebrating its <a href="http://upiscentennial.com/">Centennial Homecoming</a> on Dec. 10th, I echo their statement on the burial of dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.</div>
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<a href="http://upismc.blogspot.com/2016/11/statement-of-upis-students-on-burial-of.html"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85NOzX03kyXVDImLMCAUsAtoFup93nA4Ru4MYC9UFkizEqVvyJKT6Z4OJUifTkAy28NDAzqwCcL9rmYx-nMuKIYlN-CJ8eMrfCnZ8LbME2wql0_VzIsyu1yORveOphVPCqWKtD_HGm3Xr/s640/statement2.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-62678826127144522302016-06-19T21:34:00.000-04:002016-06-24T13:55:01.394-04:00Coming Soon: Revised Edition of Controversial Book on Martial Law, "The Conjugal Dictatorship of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos" by Primitivo Mijares<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZf-EUTBUVQ_xnfxyIIEOE-k0YJwqDRHabNfWyUr5n0RxhqEB-wy5A6Ej-uJVnGLk7Ieifjs7fKYZyE9lOFoszzXH0RB-22nYN4iw5wfwj1d3uN05CwbTO_FJqJBeUukSIEFbVxZriepVe/s1600/DSC05724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZf-EUTBUVQ_xnfxyIIEOE-k0YJwqDRHabNfWyUr5n0RxhqEB-wy5A6Ej-uJVnGLk7Ieifjs7fKYZyE9lOFoszzXH0RB-22nYN4iw5wfwj1d3uN05CwbTO_FJqJBeUukSIEFbVxZriepVe/s320/DSC05724.JPG" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since I posted the blog post,<i> <a href="http://thelivingrice.blogspot.com/2009/12/remembering-primitivo-mijares-and-his.html">Remembering Primitivo Mijares and His Message to Maguindanao</a></i>, in 2009, the article is still getting good traffic and comments from people asking where they can read and find copies of the book. A member of the Mijares clan reached out to me and shared this good news. One of the most controversial book on Martial Law, <i>The Conjugal Dictatorship of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos </i>is available as a free PDF ebook <a href="http://rizalls.lib.admu.edu.ph:8080/ebooks2/Primitivo%20Mijares.pdf">here</a> (a paperback or printed PDF can be purchased at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Conjugal-Dictatorship-Ferdinand-Imelda-Marcos/dp/1523292199">Amazon</a>). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The bigger news is that an updated version of the book will be released this September. The new version will still be the original book but will be updated with additional references, citations and new content. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Something I will very look forward to. If you want to receive updates or notifications of the revised and updated version of the book every Filipino should know and read, <i>The Conjugal Dictatorship</i>, please express your interest by signing up at <a href="http://conjugaldictatorship.com/">ConjugalDictatorship.com</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">About the book: <i>The Conjugal Dictatorship of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos </i>provides a detailed, first-hand account of the Marcos administration during the era of Martial Law. It was written by the only person Ferdinand Marcos trusted with open access to his personal chambers: press secretary and right-hand aid Primitivo "Tibo" Mijares. Unlike other books about the era, this book was written by a true insider who took no steps to "sugar-coat" the details, even those which resulted in his self-incrimination. You can read a free copy of it <a href="http://rizalls.lib.admu.edu.ph:8080/ebooks2/Primitivo%20Mijares.pdf">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The book has been out of print since 1986, and its involvement in the first EDSA revolution is undeniable. The only commercial copy which remains is the one you can find on Amazon. While they didn't change the text at all, the formatting makes the already newspaper-like work even harder to read. Make no mistake, Tibo was a newspaper writer first and wrote the book in the only way he knew how.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In any case, the new version will be edited, updated with new references and citations, and include more content. We'll revisit all sections of the old book and follow up with the parts of the book where there are still testimonies or, even better, people who are still around.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Click here to learn more: <a href="http://www.conjugaldictatorship.com/">http://www.conjugaldictatorship.com/</a></span><br />
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-62438638732241480252016-06-16T13:47:00.000-04:002016-06-16T13:47:56.534-04:00Dear Christians, Don't Celebrate the Murder of 49 Gay People in Orlando<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a Christ-following Christian, I do not celebrate the murder of nearly 50 gay people in <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/us/2016/06/12/florida-authorities-say-multiple-people-have-been-shot-at-orlando-nightclub.html">Orlando</a>. Instead, I mourned the loss of life and I grieved with their families and friends. It was not a time to blame or speculate but a time to seriously talk to my family and friends on how to love Christianly and live peacefully with people including the LGBT community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I condemn all revelry and justifications from so-called "Christians" that say the Orlando shooting of gays was Biblical and that they deserved it. It was not the best time to preach and to be self-righteous but instead a time for deep personal reflection and godly compassion that produces actions. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm ineligible to donate blood for Orlando because I just gave a few days prior to the attack. But I called our local blood bank and I was told that blood they have in stock will be sent Orlando. I hope my blood donation was able to help.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A colleague posted on Facebook what clearly articulates my thoughts about the tragic shooting in Orlando. I'm posting it here verbatim. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>The victims were people made in the image of God. That is not something that is lost through sin or lifestyle choices; if it were, we'd all have lost it by now. An attack God's image bearer is an attack on God himself. Any attempt to justify the murder or to blame the victims is blasphemous and should be condemned as reprehensible by all right-thinking people and especially by Christians who should understand the incalculable worth of each human life. Luke 13:1-5 tells us what Jesus would say to those self-righteous prigs who blame the victims for their murders. This is a time we should be mourning the lost and doing what we can to protect everyone, regardless of who they are or how they choose to live, from this kind of atrocity in the future. I wish I could be more eloquent, but I'm at a complete loss for words to express my revulsion about people who claim the name of Christ justifying this horrible act of violence in any way. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Glenn Sunshine)</span></i></span></span></div>
Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-61580930866897696572016-06-09T00:10:00.002-04:002016-06-19T21:36:26.131-04:00Media and the Backlash Against Internet Pornography Among Young Men<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 22.8571px;">Finally, a major media publication has acknowledged the harmful nature and effects of pornography. <i>TIME </i>Magazine ran a cover story last April entitled <i>Porn and the Threat to Virility</i>. The writer Belinda Luscombre, followed a growing movement of young men who grew up immersed in internet pornography, only to discover it had damaged their sexuality. Porn </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 22.8571px;">has left them incapable of intimate relationships with real women.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;">The reason some are speaking out against porn,</span><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"> is simple: <i>These mostly non-religious twenty-somethings who’ve been </i></span><i>guzzling</i><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><i> porn since puberty are realizing that porn has rewired their sexuality, leaving them crippled in real-life relationships.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;">The new </span>crusaders<span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"> against </span>porn,<span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"> <i>are convinced that their sexual responses have been sabotaged because their brains were virtually marinated in porn when they were adolescents…[They] feel like unwitting guinea pigs in a largely unmonitored decade-long experiment in sexual conditioning.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.8571px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It's encouraging to see the mainstream media admitting the negative consequences of porn. Porn addiction is a health crisis, but it's more deeply a heart crisis. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">For men of faith (preaching to myself), we’ve got to be able to direct those who want to be free from the chains of porn to something better. To help them recognize, our sexuality was designed not for sexual immorality, but for God.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 22.8571px;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>(Adapted from BreakPoint)</i></span></span></div>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-24821483339076786172016-04-26T12:12:00.000-04:002016-04-26T12:14:07.579-04:00Filipino Actress Jewel Mische-Kurzer on Making a Long Distance Relationship Work<div style="text-align: center;">
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Filipino actress / celebrity Jewel Mische, whom I briefly featured on this <a href="http://thelivingrice.blogspot.com/2014/11/filipina-actress-and-fiance-vowed-to-no.html">blog</a> for her vow of abstinence before marriage is now married to her American husband Allister Kurzer (they've been married for a year). I'm still impressed with their maturity and openness to share their faith to the Philippine entertainment <a href="http://www.pep.ph/news/media/14029/jewel-mische-kurzer-on-richard-gutierrez-he-sent-me-a-message-congratulating-me">media</a>. Check out their advice to other couples in long distance relationships - starting at the 1.30 min mark of the video. They definitely got it right! I wish this couple all the best in their marriage. Follow Jewel on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mischejewel/">Instagram</a>.Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-34677714533546871342016-03-11T13:28:00.000-05:002016-03-11T13:33:33.798-05:00Terry Crew's Dirty Little Secret<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a new fan of this guy!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">In this video, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16.12px;">American actor and former American football player </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><a href="http://terrycrews.com/main.html">Terry Crews</a> comes forward and discusses his struggle with pornography addiction and the effect it had on his life and marriage.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">He is available to help any of his fans who might be going through the same thing. "It starts with honesty and talking about it."</span><br />
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-80637234244558934652016-01-29T13:49:00.000-05:002016-01-29T13:52:24.955-05:00Fatherhood Lesson from Kung Fu Panda 3: Take Time To Be a Dad Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Being a dad is a piece of cake – said no dad ever! While being a dad is probably one of the greatest blessings there is, it is no easy task. Being a stay at home dad much of the time allows me to spend a lot of quality time with my kids. Not everyone has that luxury though. Regardless of whether or not you stay at home full time, part time, or you work full time or part time, to be a good dad you simply have to take the time to be with your kids. If you treasure every moment that you spend with your kids, no matter what you're doing, they will cherish that time just as much or more.<br />
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Take Po the protagonist for example. Because of the special relationship he has with his father, along with his support, Po is able to overcome some unique challenges.<br />
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You do not need an instruction manual to be a dad. Be there with and for your kids, relish your time with them. By spending time with them, you are showing them how important they are to you. Is that it? Of course not. But that is where it all begins.<br />
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<i>Every man is capable of being a great dad!</i> Eighty-six percent of dads spend more time with their children today than their own fathers did with them. According to a national survey conducted by the <a href="http://www.adcouncil.org/">Ad Council</a>, a majority of dads (7 out of 10) also reported that they could use tips on how to be a better parent. But don’t sell yourself short. If you are taking time out of your day and spending time with your kids, you are a good dad. If you plan dates with your kids, you are a good dad. Everything else is just “details.”<br />
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Need some ideas? Here are a few to get you started:<br />
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<li>Make breakfast, lunch or dinner together.</li>
<li>Go on a hike.</li>
<li>Collect props from around the house and take pictures of each other.</li>
<li>Plan a picnic, even indoors if it is cold.</li>
<li>Plan a short road trip.</li>
<li>Create a story together and make a book.</li>
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Get creative! The options are truly limitless.<br />
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If you know someone who is struggling as a dad, share this message. <a href="https://www.fatherhood.gov/">Fatherhood.gov</a> and the <a href="http://www.adcouncil.org/">Ad Council</a> are asking dads everywhere to make an effort to inspire and support men in their commitment to responsible fatherhood. Involvement in the lives of your kids is essential to their well-being. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(This article is a guest post provided by Fatherhood.gov and the AdCouncil)</span></i></div>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-76136625030751184732016-01-12T10:56:00.001-05:002016-06-29T11:57:18.031-04:00Report: Filipinos Spend Longest Time Watching Adult Videos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://technology.inquirer.net/46182/filipinos-spend-longest-time-watching-adult-videos-says-website">According to a report from pornhub.com</a>, Filipinos are number 1 in the global list of viewers who spend the longest time watching adult videos on the website. PornHub said online viewers from the Philippines spent 12 minutes and 45 seconds on the site, beating the Americans who spent 9 minutes and 51 seconds (see below). The Philippines also topped the same category in 2014.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">No Filipino should be proud of the statistic. Pornography is dangerous to men and relationships (I've been there). The problems with porn are: it's addictive, it breaks families, promotes human sex trafficking, turns people into objects and dehumanizes everyone involved (the Rescue: Freedom International created a powerful animated video describing the ways porn users fuel human trafficking. </span><a href="http://www.rescuefreedom.org/get-involved/refusetoclick/" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Click here to view and share the video.</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ultimately, the Biblical standards for sex are what Christian men and other followers of Christ should uphold - sounds tough to accomplish in our sex-saturated culture. But we can pursue victory and freedom from pornography by knowing that breaking free from it is possible only through the power Christ (my experience was proof). Understanding God who forbids sexual sin is also the God who dealt with sin at the cross, and offers forgiveness for all who repent. Confidence that God gives healing to those who uses their bodies, mind and yes, their video-viewing eyes according to His design and purpose.</span></span><br />
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-36873789547241590632015-12-31T12:15:00.001-05:002016-06-29T11:59:55.067-04:00Filipino American Christian Dad Blogger's Quick and Unofficial Review of 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So long super 2015! It has been a good year: new job, my son had a sudden growth spurt, my 11-year old daughter officially reach puberty and my wife and I got deeper and intimate in our relationship. Some friendships were lost but some new friends were gained and grown closer. Here's a quick mention of a few good things that happen to me this 2015.<br />
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<li>Started a new job and I like my team I'm part of. They are smart, hard-working and drama-free.</li>
<li>Got involved in <a href="http://www.kairosva.org/">Kairos Prison Ministry</a> and became friends with some inmates. It's a life changing experience that shifted my perspective in serving and my views on the incarcerated.</li>
<li>Got into deep hearing God and spiritual warfare prayer after my supernatural experience early 2015.</li>
<li>Freedom from conspiracy theories or conpiracism. Yes, I got into it. But God later revealed to me that this worldview is harmful to my Christian walk and witness to others. I'm now repentant about it. </li>
<li>Gained a new friend that I treat more than like a brother. It's true that when you open your home to a stranger, you have shown hospitality to an angel without knowing it (<a href="http://biblehub.com/hebrews/13-2.htm">Hebrews 13:2</a>). </li>
<li>Explored more and started practicing my 2nd Amendment rights.</li>
<li>Had another year of freedom from a bad habit. </li>
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I'm looking forward to 2016. Happy New Year my friends!</div>
Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-1896128340857778682015-11-29T15:26:00.000-05:002016-01-12T13:44:00.998-05:00Happy Soldier! Black Friday Shopping with My Wife<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Call me the "Black Friday man," dad or husband! I did it! I made it through Black Friday shopping with my wife. It was a mission I was not willing to accept, but as loving husband who wants to serve his wife, I did anyway. I drove the van, fought for parking spaces, stood in line in her behalf, held her purse and carried shopping bags. To prevent myself from snapping, I kept myself entertained by documenting my experiences during Black Friday 2015 on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jasonebruce/">Instagram</a>. Read <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jasonebruce/">below</a>... Smile soldier!<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-l8Fnmym2U/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Zero dark thirty. Forced to accept this mission. On going combat. Comrades down. Back up needed. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T15:10:25+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 7:10am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-l-OBPym69/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Sharing a foxhole with this GI. He needs a medic. I'm losing him. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T15:29:02+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 7:29am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mDpQKSm2-/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Bloody war zone here. Take courage comrades. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #family #fatherhood #gap #gapstore</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T16:16:27+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 8:16am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mGyPiym-x/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">It's an un-winnable mission from the start. Surveillance imagery confirms the enemy (code named 'doorbuster') is danger close! Conserve ammo and cash until reinforcements arrive. Stay alive soldier, and leave no kiddos behind. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T16:43:53+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 8:43am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mLpsDSm5F/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Ceasefire! Time to hit the hole. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T17:26:24+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 9:26am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mNOz5ym8P/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Remember to smile soldier! #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T17:40:13+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 9:40am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mQGY4ymy-/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">To many civilians blocking my way. Will attempt to contact HQ and request immediate evacuation. See you on the other side of this battle. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family #gap #gapstore</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T18:05:17+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 10:05am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mavsLym3z/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">A "Medal of Valor" awaits. Award ceremony at 2300 #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T19:38:18+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 11:38am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mb7iJym6o/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Our vehicle to home base got diverted to a different battle zone. An unexpected turn of events. New mission awaits. Tough day for a soldier. Still trying to smile to earn a medal at the end of the day. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T19:48:39+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 11:48am PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-meVTuym__/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Waiting for my "commanding officer." Accepting this mission can be lonely. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T20:09:39+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 12:09pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mtxMXym9w/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">It''s dark. Team Delta still waiting for battle orders. Need to use Night vision soon. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T22:24:32+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 2:24pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mu5lZSmwE/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Where is my night vision? Long line of civilians waiting for rations at Camp #MichaelKors. They are all safe. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T22:34:25+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 2:34pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-mzwMXym4t/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">More civilians sited at Camp #KateSpade. Their safety is our priority. blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T23:16:49+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 3:16pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-m3LbESm9m/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Surveying #BananaRepublic territory. Clearance is clear! Team Delta, proceed to infiltrate. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #family #fatherhood</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-27T23:46:45+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 3:46pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-m7nKRSm0l/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">#doorbusters at #Outlet territory positive for WMDs. Mortars hidden in floral cookie canisters. Taking it to HQ for containment. #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-28T00:25:30+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 4:25pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-m8ibbSm17/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Lowbat. Need to reload. Will loose you soon. Too much carnage! Note to self... Act happy... Act happy... Act happy... Act happy... Act happy... Act happy... Aaaaaact haaaaappppyyyy! #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-28T00:33:35+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 4:33pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-nPff8Sm02/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Seized contraband. I made it to home base. Feel defeated, but medal is worth all the pain. #HappySoldier #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #fatherhood #family</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-28T03:19:13+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 7:19pm PST</time></div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-nVhLiym-T/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">My sincerest "thank you" to the true soldiers of the US Armed Forces who fight (and fought) real dangerous wars on our behalf. I salute you all! #blackfridaydad #blackfriday #thanksgiving #family #fatherhood #usmilitary #usa #shop #shopping #marriage #husband #wife #usarmedforces #veteran #veterans</a></div>
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A photo posted by Jason Bruce (@jasonebruce) on <time datetime="2015-11-28T04:11:52+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 27, 2015 at 8:11pm PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-60679757843046829652015-09-01T13:17:00.000-04:002015-09-01T13:17:02.204-04:00When Dads at Play: Let Dad Be Dad!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Moms and Dads interact with our kids in different ways. Like play time. We fathers enjoys making goofy faces and funny noises, throwing the kids up in the air, pretending to be a monster or a super hero.<br />
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And while sometimes mom might want to scream or cover her eyes, now there’s affirmation that, as long as kids are happy and enjoying themselves, our goofy teasing and horseplay make for a healthy father-child relationship.<br />
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Dr. Kathryn Kerns, a Kent State psychologist, conducted a<a href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/what-dads-play-does-for-kids-1434476561?tesla=y"> recent study </a>to assess the interaction of both moms and dads with their children. She found that the “random, sometimes silly play” of dads encourages children to trust their fathers, and can even predict “the quality of a child’s future friendships, social skills and romantic relationships.”<br />
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So, there you go, moms, let dad be dad!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Source: <a href="http://www.thepointradio.org/listen/entry/38/27663">The Point</a>)</span>Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-32839408249221893292015-07-01T13:08:00.000-04:002015-07-01T13:08:00.256-04:00We Need What Our Grandparents Have: Age and Wisdom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZaG5fdqTJgGaciFCgumROAFQaVZKAp6oG3ZWl_CzC7nkjTRGVF93FPicSZCjzFLCL6cNakt6z8K6yNs9Bagy1HKMo1QZlhC7p-pMi2Qzr3XKCKjQouCeqD61N87yKqp5ygpOMCEZ7GM6/s1600/ThinkstockPhotos-490773079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZaG5fdqTJgGaciFCgumROAFQaVZKAp6oG3ZWl_CzC7nkjTRGVF93FPicSZCjzFLCL6cNakt6z8K6yNs9Bagy1HKMo1QZlhC7p-pMi2Qzr3XKCKjQouCeqD61N87yKqp5ygpOMCEZ7GM6/s320/ThinkstockPhotos-490773079.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Our culture have valued the elderly for their wisdom and experience. However today, they are segregated in society. They're in assisted living facilities, gated retirement communities, and nursing homes. Are we cutting ourselves off from something valuable?<br />
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<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/health/older-really-can-mean-wiser.html?ref=science&_r=2">In a research paper by Harvard and M.I.T</a>, they found that our elders have excellent abilities to discern people and read their thoughts.<br />
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According to Benedict Carey of the <a href="http://newoldage.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/01/27/the-older-mind-may-just-be-a-fuller-mind/?_r=0">New York Times</a>, the older brain may move more slowly <i>than its younger self, but is just as accurate in many areas and more adept at reading others’ moods on top of being more knowledgeable. That’s a handy combination…</i><br />
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The findings just confirm what Christians have always knew and taught about the elderly and why the book of Proverbs calls their gray hair and wisdom,<i> a crown of glory (Proverbs 16:31)</i>.<br />
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God takes seriously the respect due to the senior members of our society. They have dignity and earned a lifetime of respect and value. We need to grow old with that understanding too.Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-14855699381643981632015-06-20T10:34:00.001-04:002015-06-20T10:34:56.767-04:00Things I Learned Living With Filipino Families<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Early last year, my wife and I opened our home to individuals who have no place to stay and invited them to live with us. Welcoming others has been the most humbling and life-changing experience for my family. It has blessed us and has given us a deeper understanding of loving our neighbors and serving the strangers in our midsts.<br />
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So far, most of our long-term house guests have been non-Filipinos. I always wonder what was it like for them to live with a Filipino family. What did they learn from living with us? What do they think of our Filipino antics, food, parties, etc? This <a href="http://www.becomingfilipino.com/five-things-i-learned-living-with-filipino-families">blog post</a> by Kyle Jennerman of #BecomingFilipino is one of my favorite articles on Filipino families. According to his <a href="http://www.becomingfilipino.com/">website</a>, Kyle is a 26 year-old Canadian who is trying to "become Filipino." Living in the Philippines with a Filipino family for years have made him understand Filipinos very well and he shares a lists of values he learned along the way. I would like to post his list because it made me reflect on the values my own family is teaching to our foreign households guests. I won't write about their identities for privacy reasons but what I can say is that we've grown to love these people very much and have accepted them as true members of my family.<br />
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Here's the list below. You can read Kyle's full article <a href="http://www.becomingfilipino.com/five-things-i-learned-living-with-filipino-families">here</a>.<br />
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1) You should always show respect<br />
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"It is a beautiful thing how much Filipinos care about showing each other respect. When I reflect on it… It makes me happy. It makes me smile. It makes me remember how important it is to always show a little bit of extra love to your family and those around you. One gesture and word at a time."<br />
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2) Always wait for family meal time<br />
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"But one thing I have definitely realized living with Filipino families… DON’T START TAKING FOOD UNTIL IT IS TIME FOR EVERYONE TO EAT."<br />
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3) "Celebrate pa more"<br />
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"Living with a Filipino family has shown me just how important it is to enjoy life and celebrate. Usually when I thought of celebrating it would be for accomplishments... But never in a million years did I think I would be celebrating in places like a cemetery... Sometimes we just need a little celebration to get us through even the most difficult of times."<br />
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4) Friends are family... everyone is family<br />
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"It was like everyone was family! It didn’t matter if Tito and Tita didn’t personally know the individuals, they would welcome others into their home LIKE FAMILY."<br />
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5) It is Okay to live at home with your family... actually it isn't Okay... it is a blessing<br />
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"This is the biggest lesson I have learned and something that really has inspired my life… IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE. IT IS A BLESSING TO LIVE WITH YOUR FAMILY...<br />
I have never experienced anything like it! It has been one of the most inspiring things to be a part of a full Filipino family. It made me realize it shouldn’t matter how old you are, or what you are going through… Living with your family is a blessing."<br />
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-52224474117205499242015-05-12T09:17:00.002-04:002015-05-12T09:17:27.182-04:00Your Teens are NOT the Center of the Universe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37vfxW4SX0FpgM9d1rMJcpydnO9WgMFtffVlRKBvAmTulBE__blY3niBi47d2_c5smCb2LmcCkpyp73f0_DTjosRlcKoIlSMoJJUXQ-OskyrQzLWk6A32R76dda14g7oHA3Va2ka9PXAr/s1600/ThinkstockPhotos-510537867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37vfxW4SX0FpgM9d1rMJcpydnO9WgMFtffVlRKBvAmTulBE__blY3niBi47d2_c5smCb2LmcCkpyp73f0_DTjosRlcKoIlSMoJJUXQ-OskyrQzLWk6A32R76dda14g7oHA3Va2ka9PXAr/s320/ThinkstockPhotos-510537867.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Everyone has a smart phone nowadays, and texting, mobile apps and the Internet are here to stay specially to the younger generation. According to author of the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0802412696/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0802412696&linkCode=as2&tag=thelivric-20&linkId=TOQHSHLUGJFN6RM2">"Screen and Teens"</a> Kathy Koch, these technologies influence how our children think about themselves and their worldview.<br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Constant use of smart phones, tablets, computers, gaming systems, and cable television has inculcated five major lies in today’s teens</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">:</span><br />
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One: “I am the center of my own universe.”<br />
Two: “I deserve to be happy all the time.”<br />
Three: “I must have choice.”<br />
Four: “I am my own authority.”<br />
Five: “Information is all I need, not teachers.”<br />
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Dispelling these lies is a worldview issue. Teens need to learn and embrace that God is the center of the universe, not them.</div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Parents love their children, and want the best for them. Unfortunately, the best is not always what society offers. Faithful moms and dads have a duty to find acceptable balance between new technology, and the timeless values that make family life possible. Only by setting smart boundaries, and by combating the lies technology influences, can we raise children and teenagers ready to face the world on their own.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">What do you think?</span></div>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-61009817755558215232015-03-24T11:31:00.000-04:002015-03-25T12:21:05.393-04:00Dude, Stay Away From Twitter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEMfpcmkhtc5avCJHI2WHx_kiYu2gjgYr2-HHjERlDC-Ep0L7yqnXIMBGlgodu0LJffH7kn1qkJZFkex24Gm3-bfoUAcftSqfwHGvT9QjUf3yfpwhyphenhyphenIxEX1QPAgvkpmqZHdOFKVyDYVSb/s1600/ThinkstockPhotos-178089842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEMfpcmkhtc5avCJHI2WHx_kiYu2gjgYr2-HHjERlDC-Ep0L7yqnXIMBGlgodu0LJffH7kn1qkJZFkex24Gm3-bfoUAcftSqfwHGvT9QjUf3yfpwhyphenhyphenIxEX1QPAgvkpmqZHdOFKVyDYVSb/s1600/ThinkstockPhotos-178089842.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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In a fascinating article in the <a href="http://www.zocalopublicsquare.org/">Zocalo Public Square</a>, writer <a href="http://time.com/3735826/twitters-tango-with-shame/">Jacob Brogan</a> admitted “I’m ashamed of the way I am on Twitter.” He's ashamed over what he tweets, his need for approval, and even that his mom's tweets are about him and has four times the number for followers compared to his.</div>
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Brogan's self-reflection is honest and commendable but if something is causing you to despair, then why not get off Twitter for a while? </div>
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According to <a href="http://www.breakpoint.org/listen/entry/38/27073">The Point</a>, <i>what Brogan describes is what theologians call an “occasion of sin” a circumstance or situation that makes us more likely to stumble. </i></div>
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It clearly makes sense! Don't play with fire if you don't want to get burned. Recovering alcoholics shouldn't hang out in bars. A person who struggles with porn, shouldn't surf the Web alone or look at a Victoria's Secret catalog. I stay away from cable TV and R rated movies because I struggle with lust.</div>
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I'm not advising that we should all abstain from any forms of social media. Just know your triggers and weaknesses. Scripture says, <i>to be vigilant</i> because our enemy is <i>prowling like a lion, looking for someone to devour.</i> We should avoid situations that will cause us to sin and stay away from people and places where temptation calls our name. </div>
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For some people that’ll be social media. For others, it’ll be something else. But for all of us, the advice is the same: Be alert and flee!</div>
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Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-7800338587799585772015-03-18T14:05:00.001-04:002015-03-18T14:05:53.997-04:00God Loves Poetry: A Daughter's First Poem <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_8kb4ILX5RR9pYB9g7oNGV-3v1VBZ1bRx1OTVOUoaUK1zhCZp6sg2fw26ihiBan72ExUFed8cwehxT0ypNIUfzKE2q2A_yZboGoWlRH8ssZfYHu2T_LRRxvogzNFXTfzTekOEqnxbQJi/s1600/Meme_GodLovesPoetry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_8kb4ILX5RR9pYB9g7oNGV-3v1VBZ1bRx1OTVOUoaUK1zhCZp6sg2fw26ihiBan72ExUFed8cwehxT0ypNIUfzKE2q2A_yZboGoWlRH8ssZfYHu2T_LRRxvogzNFXTfzTekOEqnxbQJi/s1600/Meme_GodLovesPoetry.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
I didn't know my 10-year old daughter was into poetry until last weekend when she read to me the first poem she wrote. I was impressed with the theme she picked for her first poem. I'm pasting and sharing it below so I have an online record of it.<br />
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I believe God loves poetry and He uses it to nurture spiritual formation. However, for many of us, we don't think of poetry as something that can contribute to our spiritual well-being. Poetry can be so unrelatable and can be viewed as old-fashion and boring at many times. But don't dismiss poetry as a powerful literary form to stimulate one's soul yet. Perhaps we should remember the most "spiritual" book in the Bible, the Psalms, is entirely written in poetry.<br />
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Without further ado, here's my daughter's first poem:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 30.0pt;">The
Beast Below<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A poem by Isabelle Bruce (written: 3/14/15)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">A horse and a man fall below,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">One has a plan but both must go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The beast below should know that both must stay,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">For this is the game we all must play.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Before it’s too late come follow me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Don’t disobey or go astray.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">My home has a room for each of you,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">My house is a dream and so are you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I created you so don’t go away,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The beast below will make you his prey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">So come follow me and don’t astray,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">I will protect you day by day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">The beast below will pay the price, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">Don’t play with me or roll the dice,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">For all whom do evil will be crushed
like rice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">So please don’t go your own way,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Or <i>you</i>
must be the one to pay.</span><br />
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<br />Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-19108871787198278492015-03-09T22:56:00.000-04:002015-03-09T22:57:06.834-04:00Social Media Campaign: 2:30PM Daily for 2.30 Million Prisoners<i>Just want to share the latest social media campaign I developed for Prison Fellowship.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1sSrFP6iRqtkb3WrPF0e26Pz4eiZLXN1OVrCtBQT92QJu8Gr1cqsB8wzuPI1i-HxI_VxfPs5Y4kJsp7QGVvYwOFMFxMtz9dd2ES9u6vq-qhw1zUn4fA3-CjVuWdDcfM-PZFJrsrW5RU0/s1600/Meme_P4P-Sample-1-400x400.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1sSrFP6iRqtkb3WrPF0e26Pz4eiZLXN1OVrCtBQT92QJu8Gr1cqsB8wzuPI1i-HxI_VxfPs5Y4kJsp7QGVvYwOFMFxMtz9dd2ES9u6vq-qhw1zUn4fA3-CjVuWdDcfM-PZFJrsrW5RU0/s1600/Meme_P4P-Sample-1-400x400.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are approximately 2.3 million prisoners in America that need our intercession and petition to God. They need to know that we are praying for them and we need to spread the word to other believers to pray for them.<br />
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That’s why starting this March, at 2:30PM EST every weekday, Prison Fellowship will post a prayer reminder on its Facebook and Twitter pages using the hashtag <b>#PRAY4PRISONERS</b>, to encourage everyone to pause for a while and lift up these men and women behind bars and anyone affected by crime and incarceration.<br />
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We will be posting prayer requests on the general needs of prisoners as well as specific prayer requests submitted to us by inmates (their names and identities will be changed to protect their privacy).<br />
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Every prison ministry team needs prayer warriors lifting up the needs of prisoners. Even if you’ve never been inside a prison or jail, you can be a prayer warrior interceding before God for those who are incarcerated. Our goal is to get as many people involved in prison outreach and build an active movement of praying for for prisoners. So join us and become a faithful prayer warrior and speak blessings into the lives of prisoners. As the apostle Paul said, “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison … (Hebrews 13:3).”<br />
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<b>Please remember to follow us on <a href="http://facebook.com/PFMinistries">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/prisonfellowshp">Twitter</a>, mark your calendars at 2:30pm every weekday and #PRAY4PRISONERS.</b><br />
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Join the Prison Fellowship Prayer Team <a href="http://prisonfellowship.org/pray">here</a>.Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7197397995318869024.post-30540487228791162382015-02-23T11:19:00.001-05:002015-02-23T11:19:38.517-05:00Parents Who Preach and Practice Their Faith at Home are More Likely to See Their Youngsters Keep the Faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3sFvmaMww21DIPscXGQWS9ZKb6_ku0_KkEyUW6QcoHkQ1zqgBQtEby225sLeY_ZdeLB2m2Il6jfl6pjZGnfWiWP3jrew1gI-cnJZONwQ72LMWKFAch9yVPbKCrHLUuSJ6wz4Lpt4F4I9/s1600/86500350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3sFvmaMww21DIPscXGQWS9ZKb6_ku0_KkEyUW6QcoHkQ1zqgBQtEby225sLeY_ZdeLB2m2Il6jfl6pjZGnfWiWP3jrew1gI-cnJZONwQ72LMWKFAch9yVPbKCrHLUuSJ6wz4Lpt4F4I9/s1600/86500350.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Mom and dads who preach and practice their faith at home are more likely to see their youngsters keep the faith. That’s the conclusion from the latest data collected from the <a href="http://youthandreligion.nd.edu/">National Study of Youth and Religion</a>.<br />
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According to them, “No other conceivable causal influence ... comes remotely close to matching the influence of parents on the religious faith and practices of youth. Parents just dominate.”<br />
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So consider this: Parents who don’t go to church consistently and don’t discuss their faith can anticipate their kids to have little enthusiasm for religious services or spiritual issues when they grow up.<br />
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In conclusion, our kids will take us at our words and also at our actions.Jason Brucehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06532683567896156620noreply@blogger.com1