I’d like to point out for the uninitiated that these posts are for you guys to talk about anything you want. The pictures are chosen base on feeling or in the case of the Gaza picture… I just wanted to have a HUMP DAY. I did not expect it to cause a religious debate.. But I feel the need to express my love for the other side of the situation.
I’ll try to do better. I do not want to steer conversation. I just wanted to have a pretty picture on the off topic forum everyday.
This forum is just for random conversation.
I’ve lived a blessed, if solitary life. I’ve been a lot of places including Jerusalem. My mother bought me a bible while I was there. It is encrusted with mother of pearl. It is likely a touristy thing but I carry it when I go to funerals or other church occasions.
As a world traveler at a very young age, I was awed by Jerusalem. And much to my parents chagrin, I was in love with the call to prayer that happened multiple times a day at my house. I love that sound. I do not understand why people that consider themselves religious kill those with other religious beliefs.
If you believe in any religious scriptures, the end times all happen in the same place for the same reason.
Counting Crows is a favorite of mine for this lyric.
Help me believe in anything
I want to be someone who believes
Mr. Jones and me tell each other fairy tales…
I was raised in the church. I want to be someone who believes… I just don’t. Or maybe I do. I dunno. That’s the definition of agnostic. I respect everyone who believes.
I have the bible from Jerusalem that my mother gave me, I think for high school graduation. I also have a huge Koran that the Libyan Embassy gave us. In English and in Arabic. I treasure them both equally.
I’m a lost soul.
The purpose of daily tea is not for you to comment. It’s for you to share your struggles as I share mine.
Or talk about funny shit. Or just talk. Because we all need to just TALK.
This is an open forum. Please talk about whatever interests you for the day.
I grew up in a very religious( non denominational Christian) and strict home. Of course once I graduated and left for college I left a lot of my faith behind.
It wasn’t until almost 3 years ago I stopped believing in how my parents raised me. My parent found out that one of my brothers was/is gay and refused to let him come home for Christmas. I, in turn, sided with my brother.which also got me pretty much kicked out of my family and definetly out of my parents good graces.
I’ve struggled with this so much. My parents acknowledged that they knew not accepting my brother would cause a rift in the family. They still choose to go forward. You know because ” being gay is an abomination” and my brother “is going to hell for choosing this lifestyle”. It’s been devastating.
My brother has not asked me to take a side. He would even support me if I begged forgiveness from my parents so that I could have a relationship with them again. But honestly, why would I stand to the side when I don’t believe how my parents believe.
The saddest part is that because my parents barely communicate with me that also means they won’t communicate with my children. I have young children( under the age of 9). How can parents do this. I can never imagine shunning my children.
So this is why I’ve turned away from religion. I support those that believe what they believe. Personally, I’m just floating trying to find something I truly believe in anymore.
I think it’s more of an abomination of a parent to reject their child which is also a fear that I have painfully endured all of my life.
Sadly that’s why I still have one foot in the closet because I KNOW that mentality of “disowning” will happen to me by my parents. I am OUT to everybody except my immediate family who already know/suspect. I just don’t talk about it or admit it with them, but I know they know because of all the gossiping big mouths in my city.
Please no lectures or no judging me for my choice/circumstance. Every family dynamic is different, and I have to do what is best for me & my family and not force it down their throats. I will NEVER be able to change their mentality. I’ve given up a long time ago.
My brother didn’t come out to them either, UF. For the exact same reasons you stated. Someone took what they suspected or knew and confronted my parents with it. I come from a rather large family and its my opinion that one of my “Christian” siblings told my parents what they suspected. My parents live in a smaller town and couldn’t believe that my brother would “embarrass” them like this. Although my brother hasn’t lived at home since he was 18. He got the heck out of dodge and never looked back. I knew for several years before my parents did, because my brother had confided in me. When he was home he never let it slip. He kept his private life private and pretended to be what my parents wanted when he was around them. Even his entire FB was basically a fake profile of who he was until after my parents disowned him. So I completely understand where you are coming from, UF.
I identify as non-denominational Christian but I’m more spiritual than anything. I don’t look at the Bible as the end all be all of Gods will and I believe we each have our own relationship with God and that if we live our lives to be good to others and do good for the world that is the most Christian/Godly thing we can do. I fell away from the Southern Baptist principles I was raised on in HIgh School due to all the slander and persecution of gay people. My very first friend in Kindergarten was a gay boy, we played harbors, dress up and Legos together everyday. He wore a Tshirt on his head when we played to simulate long hair. Many of his family members are gay/lesbian. I say all this to say I believe people are born gay. I wouldn’t call it a genetic deformation or anything but I do believe it is genetic. Which in turn means God made him how he wanted him to be. The Bible tells us to not judge yet that’s wgat the church does: Judge! The bible also says Jesus will come to us in many forms and we are to love him as our brother. I believe that God is testing us to see how we will treat his children that are different from ourselves.
And what really upsets me is that it has turned into a political issue that is solely based on religion and our country was formed to escape persecution and let man live how they want. The constitution forbids us from preventing gay marriage yet it is still a debate!! It is infuriating!
I have young sons whom I will love no matter what. I do have fears of how others will treat them, if homosexuality is their lot in life. But I will support them no matter what. My brother has been with his partner for 20+ years but my parents pretend they’re roommates. He goes along with it because they’re old. For what it’s worth, I’m praying for any hurts you may have, UF! God bless.
@Alexa
I worked at a very trendy, hip restaraunt in my twenties. I waited on many famous musicians and bands.
There were a lot of gay and lesbian servers there. I decided I wanted to be gay. So I slept with a few cool, hot lesbians. And what I found out is that I was no more gay than they were straight. I gave it the good, college try (I am a bit of a freebird… Willing to try almost anything for a new experience). But I can tell you from my own personal experience and having loads of gay friends… Being gay is no more a choice than being straight. I feel terrible for ANYONE who has to hide their truth.
I really don’t understand this attitude. I am going to assume that UF’s parents are Christian. Tamara stated hers are. From a strictly Christian view point, both of your parents did their duty and raised their children within the Christian faith. Once their children become adults, isn’t the adult child’s moral delimma not the parents? As Christians aren’t we suppose to not judge others? I do believe that everyone has a path in life and we are judged by God how we navigate that path. To me it’s a big “sin” to turn your back on someone who is walking their path. Christians who cast out their children for “being gay” are hypocrites IMO and should be worried for their own soul. Your parents should just be able to say that my religious back ground doesn’t believe in “this lifestyle”, but as your parent and a Christian I love you anyway. Sounds so simple.
It does indeed sound so simple. However, my parents believe his “lifestyle” directly reflects upon them and their “poor parenting and guidance”.
Unfortunately, the Christian faith has a huge contradiction when it calls for “Not Judging” but then calls for people to remain vigilant about being “Equally Yoked”. It espouses compassion but in the same breath says, let those who are not “Equally Yoked” with you to simply fall away, be left ignored.
I think that contradiction is a huge hurdle for faith abiding peoples. They’re left to choose non-judgement or complete estrangement. It’s horrible that so many turn away from their beloved children. Just horrible.
I have always loathed the term “lifestyle” as it applies to gay people.
To me being gay is not a lifestyle. Living on the beach is a lifestyle.
My lifestyle consists of the same elements of most heterosexuals lifestyle: Work, friends, family, love animals, and I have the same physical & emotional needs.
“Lifestyle” and “choices.” I sure remember the exact moment when I choose to like boys instead of girls and chose the straight lifestyle;)
Oh, don’t forget “abomination.” Just like a few verses down in Leviticus when they talk about the abomination of wearing a fabric woven of 2 materials or of eating she’ll fish and pigs. “God hates shrimp, but he still loves the shrimpeaters…. if they repent, of course.”
I understand what you are saying. Your sexual preference just is.
Oops, I’m tired. I just mowed the lawn. The better wording would be ones sexual preference just is. I mean I didn’t choose to be straight.
TAMARA, I too have a few gay and lesbian relatives and dear friends. My thing is this I can’t stop loving my loved one who has been loyal to me, grew up with me, was raised by the same village as me because they chose to love someone of the same sex. No matter what it is not up to me to decide their fate that is the Lord’s. I won’t turn my back on them and I commend you for being there for your sibling. Maybe one day your parents will accept not necessarily agree with the choice made but restore their love for their child. My prayers are with you. Continue to stand for what you believe in .
TAMARA & UF – I admire how strong you both seem to be. No matter if it’s one foot in or totally in it takes strength to be able to acknowledge who you are- Gay, straight, bi etc. To support a family member that everyone has shut out, in turn shutting you out, wow! You go girl!
Both of my parents and all of family know about me. It is not discussed with my father. And unfortunately my mother has Alzheimer’s and has forgotten, and I just can not come out to her every single day all day. So I just let it slide. I tell you, it’s a very difficult world at times for us. I am currently living in a small town in Kentucky, and so many Narrow minded rednecks here makes it even more difficult. For me, I honestly do not care what anyone thinks of me. If they do not like me or my life than they can move along. I do feel for gay men, as I think it is much harder for them than it is us gay women. I may be wrong about that, but it seems that way from my male friends. As far as church, I find it very hard to attend as most want to condemn us all to hell for being gay. This was not a choice for me anyways. I was born this way, and I can’t imagine a loving God making us gay only to condemn us to hell. JMO
The sad part about religion is that people miss the message of love. When they believe this equals heaven and this equals hell, and if you don’t convert you will burn in hell so I will just force you to convert for your own good, that’s why there are wars over religion and broken up families.
I’m an atheist. People think without me believing someone is watching me, and without the threat of hell, I must be immoral and have no reason to behave. The reality is, I do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. I believe in love and peace. I try not to judge or treat people differently because of what they believe or don’t believe… because I believe this is my only life, my only chance to change the world, I use my time and resources accordingly.
My heart breaks for you. I quit believing in the church of the don’t do’s and the popular view of heaven and hell. To me it puts God in the role of Santa Claus and the boogie man. I believe we are meant to enjoy life; not live in fear of going to hell. I have studied the new testament, and Jesus said nothing about being gay. He did say alot about love one another and forgive and don’t judge.
I was also raised as an Episcoplaian/Deist. Church was Christmas, Easter, weddings, and funerals. I was baptized and confirmed because it was the done thing.
I do believe in God, and the resurrection. I just happen to beleive God/ Christianity is so much more than a set of rules that you follow to get rewarded.
After coding a couple of times, I figure life is too damn short not to ride all the roller coasters and not eat spaghetti in your white blouse and worry about what other people will think.
It is your parents’ loss by their choice. Your children are lucky to have you.
I was raised Southern Baptist, never missed a service and played the piano and organ for services until I turned 21. I still believe in God although at times I question my faith. The other thing I am is a MOTHER. I cannot fathom how any mother or father, religious or not could turn their backs on their child because they are gay. Nothing my child does could ever make me stop loving them. That is like disowning them because their eyes are blue. They were born that way. Who cares who they love? Maybe this is just one old woman’s opinion. I understand why Urethra and others don’t come out to their parents and I’m sorry for that. I also grieve for Tamara and her brother too because their parents don’t care about the pain they are causing them. I’m sure these parents have sinned in their lives. We all sin and come short of the glory of God. How can they say that their child being gay is a worse sin than they commit daily? Judge not lest ye be judged also and let he who is without sin cast the first stone.
Tamara, What your parents are doing is wrong according to the Bible. Most people who claim to be Christians don’t read the Bible (the book they are supposed to live by) very carefully. If they do read it carefully they dismiss the things that don’t fit in with their church’s teachings.1Corinthians 5 verse 9 through 12 says “I wrote to you not to keep company with people who commit sexual sin, but I wasn’t talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that. I meant that you are not to associate with people who claim to be believers and indulge in sexual sin, or are abusive or cheaters. Do not even eat with such people. It isn’t my job to judge unbelievers, but it is certainly your job to judge those inside the church who are sinning.” So if your brother is not a Christian, it is not their job to judge him. But it is their job to judge fellow Christians. As this verse implies, sexual sin is as sinful as any sin. According to the Bible, being a liar is the same as being gay. Do Christians shun people in their church who have been caught in a lie, or mistreat their wives? No they don’t usually. All that energy they put towards judging others should all be directed at judging their fellow believers.
“What can you ever really know of other people’s souls — of their temptations, their opportunities, their struggles? One soul in the whole of creation you do know: and it is the only one whose fate is placed in your hands. If there is a God, you are, in a sense, alone with Him.”
― C.S. Lewis
I’m so sorry. This is so unbearably sad for you. What an amazing source of strength you are for your brother.
Thank you. I would like to say that I am not the only sibling that is standing with my brother. There are a couple others. This has literally caused the biggest split in our family.
There are those who agree with my parents, those who don’t care but won’t say anything to support my brother, and those few of us who support him. ( like I said I come from a rather large family).
I personally believe that almost EVERYONE has someone gay in their family wether in or out of the closet, wether it is admitted to or not. I have no problem with that, since I have two grand children that are gay, and the main thing that I shared with them when I found out was, that if they were SURE they were gay (because they were teens at the time and very non communicative unless pressed on anything) to be the BEST gay people that there ever was and will be, and no matter what, I am always here for them and always love them. Now their mother (my daughter) was in denial about it, but she’s a nut anyway (but I love her too) The problem I have (not really a problem) is there are family members (in the cousin status) who get on their soapboxes and like to pontificate on how being gay is an abomination and blah blah blah. I listen to these hypocrites (cause that’s how I see them) and when I can get a word in edgewise, I politely (or try to be) tell them that I don’t agree with their point of view. I respect their right to their point of view, I just don’t happen to agree. When I ask them how can you say God meant this and God meant that and who are you to speak for God anyway? I mean are you just supposed to stop loving a sibling, offspring, relative etc. just because they are gay?? No. And if said relative is going to stop speaking or associating with me because I don’t agree with them on that subject, then they weren’t worth a damn anyway and I will pray for them. Sorry that was so long TT.
I visited & traveled to the Middle East-Palestine-Jerusalem-Israel when I was a teenager in the 80’s. I loved The Old City of Jerusalem behind The Walls. It was a bustling place of markets, shops of all sorts of goods & jewelry… and I will never forget the good smells of the food & the bad smells of the donkeys that were part of the daily life/commerce. The energy from the richness of the history was palpable.
In my opinion the only way to end racism and understand each other we must learn about the cultural diversity amongst us. I too was raised in the Baptist church, however my Mommy always instilled in my siblings and I to understand other cultures, ethnicities, and religions. Even if I don’t agree with the text at least I’ll have the knowledge to defeat any oppressor.
My Mother was Christian, Islamic, Jewish, and Buddhist. She spoke with Jehovah’s witnesses/Mormons who she converted to Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism. My understanding is that people are measured by character and intelligence not money or superficial b.s. I call myself a Runner for Christ, it is my belief that I should spread love.
I am so sorry for anyone that feels they have to “closet” their true feelings, especially from those that should love you unconditionally. I believe you can disagree with someone’s choices, but love the person. Sexuality is not a choice, except for some that just want to take on a persona, or others that want it any crazy way they can get some.
My parents were strict Baptists, I can say unequivocally, they would be accepting, but saddened by the difficult challenges of homosexuality. I saw them over the years not stray from their beliefs, but over time and experience, they became more open minded.
They did not believe in dancing or alcohol. In her elder years, when widowed, we had a conversation about a wonderful Hawaiian trip they had taken in their 60’s. She disclosed she even sampled the champagne, it was included in the meal. She said it tasted like kerosene to her. I was surprised and proud of her for trying it. The trip was perfect she said, except she wished they had danced. I thought that was so sad, she never ever danced in her life and regretted it. It was probably one of a very few times they were ever around people dancing, they didn’t know how. I didn’t ask if Dad had been willing, it did not matter, he was gone, her regret was not.
I have a list of places I would like to visit one day that, to me, would be mind blowing. Jerusalem is one. As an American, I had a real epiphany standing on a wall around a city in Germany that had been built to keep Attila the Hun out! We have hardly anything in this country that old. My list includes the Holy Lands, North East Africa, China, Angkor Wat Cambodia, Easter Island, Stonehenge, anywhere in Ireland, and Antarctica.
My son was diagnosed with extreme depression/schizophrenia or schizoid affect, or what ever that doctor decided to call it 10 years ago. He was 14. My ex-husband decided he wanted a divorce to pursue his personal happiness two months after our son was diagnosed. My daughter, son, and I headed into a perfect storm. It took 10 years of struggling with misdiagnoses, bad reactions to medication, suing my ex for continued support when my son turned 18 (I won). The doctors would tweak the meds, but nothing really worked until last June. We got a new doctor who put my son on Haldol. He never tried that one. And it was a miracle. The psychosis just stopped. We had the other part, the depression on good control with meds and therapy. Today my son tells me he is happy. He is not only happy, he’s happy that he is happy. He registered for college this week. He’ll be starting this summer. He, my daughter, and I have worked so hard. I look at him now, and it’s like the sun is rising before me. It’s like he has wings. It’s amazing and wonderful. Anyway, that’s really where I am right now. Everything else is cake.
Wow! That’s amazing. Positive thoughts and good wishes for your family!
Thanks, Angel(?) 🙂
I wish him great success with school and you deserve only “cake” from now on.
Thanks, Angel! 🙂
Thank you for making my day,
@lisamia: your love and dedication did that! So many people give up (no blame) and turn them over to the state because of the cost and violence and just being tired of chaos. You did what so many have tried and failed at. One of my boys, who was a student at the time, got boxed into “emotionally disturbed” and was constantly incarcerated. Found out his mother has the issues and the environment she provided was creating pyschological problems with her son. He lived with me for a year before she turned him over (and that was mostly so I would assume financial responsibility for his past medical and incarceration costs). That’s how I became a mother to a 14 year old when I was 29. He’s normal and a contributing member of society. Sometimes we have to help eachother with children/teens in the community. That is so great you did it on your own and everyone is happy!
Thanks, @Shay and everyone. Felt really good to share this.
“That’s how I became a mother to a 14 year old when I was 29.” Real love there, @Shay!
This brought a happy tear! He is happy that he is happy! Way to go Mom!
What an uplifting story about your son!! I’m so happy for you that after a decade of struggles, he has found a joyous place. I get the “sun rising” feeling … after years of opiate addiction and a family nightmare, my son is finally clean and living a full life. There’s that expression that you are only as happy as your saddest child.
Queen: a friend of mine has a child that also struggled with and beat opioid addiction. Her stories make the show “intervention” seem like Disneyland. Congratulations to him and your family. I think it’s one of the hardest things to get off of, especially because they made need it for dental work, injuries, surgeries, kidney stones, etc. Stay vigilant!
That is so excellent about your son! Hugs!
What an inspiring comment and I so needed it right now. I have a son with multile mental health issues and it has been extremely difficult recently. I hope one day that we can find something to help my son especially with his rage and anger issues. Your story helps me feel that maybe we will one day find success for our son.
I was raised in a very conservative Catholic family, but somewhere along the way I lost my faith in the church but not in God. I can’t talk to family members because they think I just need to go to church. I don’t think one religion is better then another, and don’t understand why others do. It is sad to me that people reject others because of who they are or their lifestyle, etc. It makes me want to sing on high a song from my childhood, Jesus loves the little children, all the little children of the world…to me that is what God is all about love each other and treat each other as we want to be treated.
This is amazing news. Congratulations to you all. I hope your son has continued success on these meds.
What an amazing turn, that is wonderful for the 3 of you. And esp for your son. It must feel … like the big unknown and fabulously so! Your story gave me the biggest smile.
Totally awesome story. Hugs.
If I might humbly share some borrowed wisdom from Shawnee Chief Tecumsa who 200 years ago seemed lightyears ahead of the polarization us modern “civilized” folk seem so infested with:
“Live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart.
Trouble no one about his religion.
Respect others in their views and demand that they respect yours.
Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life.
Seek to make your life long and of service to your people.
Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.
Always give a word or sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend, or even a stranger, if in a lonely place.
Show respect to all people, but grovel to none.
When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength.
Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living.
If you see no reason to give thanks, the fault lies in yourself.
Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools
and robs the spirit of its vision.
When your time comes to die,
be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time
to live their lives over again in a different way.
Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home.”
You see, I think what Tecumseh was trying to say regarding religion, is that opinions are like assholes… :p
Aemish, thank you for sharing this. Very profound.
Your are most welcomes! {{{{hugs}}}}
Thank you. Great wisdom to live by.
I’m not sure exactly what I expected these Daily Teas to be like. But I’m pretty sure it wasn’t this. Tomorrow I need to find a picture of rainbows and unicorns and glitter or something.
On Thu, Apr 16, 2015 at 12:44 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
>
Better than glitter unicorns :p
Fantastic, copying and printing out. I’ve only read excerpts so this perfect!
…. I meant to say ‘read excerpts of his writings in the past’, so thank you!
Excellent! (Ɔ ˘⌣˘)♥(˘⌣˘ C)
My heart goes out to all of you – maybe because I have experienced bits and pieces of all of your lives. Having been raised in a strict Catholic home, I’ve turned out to be a religious floater too… probably closer to agnostic, but, like Tamara, I have no idea what I believe. I’ll find out ‘the truth’ when I’m dead I guess, but until then, I respect those that believe but identify with those that don’t.
My best friend in college was gay and I supported him when he broke the news to his parents. It was so sad and yet so fulfilling for him. They didn’t accept it at first but he felt better and he knew I would stand by him no matter what. Sadly, he died an early death (of some mysterious illness) and is no longer enhancing my life for the better.
Hey Steeler – I’m sorry for your loss of your friend. I’m sure he felt glad to have your support. (My best friend in high school came out to me and it was especially tough for her, with her family. They just denied denied denied. Friends were her only safe-spot.)
I wanted to say hi also because I just read a sweet article on Troy Polamalu this morning. Miss his game-play. Take care!
TT, I get what you feel. I want to believe. Your lyric nailed it. My parents were moslem and Russian orthodox so I was raised with nothing but mixed messages. I went to every church in every denomination with my girlfriends and waited for God, but heard silence. But, I feel so spiritual, love humanity, believe there’s greatness in the universe which we don’t know, and am probably the kindest person you’ll meet. So confusing …what am I? I do know that when I’m alone — in an autumn forest, at the beach listening to the surf, on a warm starlight night — or watching the beauty of my small grandchildren, I’m convinced there’s something electric, tangible, just outside my reach.
Oh sorry. Way too heavy, but your blog today moved me.
Shit … I need to go back to the Housewives blogs and feel snarky again – ha!!
It isn’t often a book might change your life.. but after reading your post, I am sure this one will have you highlighting and writing notes in the margins.. (乂ღ˘⌣˘)ノ♥ヽ(ˆ⌣ˆ)ヾ
Love, Soul & Freedom by Denise Breton & Chris Largent
Enjoy!
Seeing this picture reminds me that God has been very good to me. I am so saddened that so many peoples religious beliefs push people away.i don’t think think that the church you go to or how many times is gonna make you better than anyone. Just believing in him. If you believe than loving man to man or woman to woman is not going to make a difference in my eyes. How can it be wrong that you love someone. You don’t choose to attracted someone tall or a blonde it’s just how you feel in your heart. So how then you can’t change if you are attracted to someone of the same sex. It is not wrong or immoral. People who who are believers in God are being hypocritical to do so because it is not your right to judge anyone. Live your life, live it in love and kindness and let other love and marry who they want. If you want to call yourself a Christian don’t forget love thy neighbor. It is not conditional.
I understand what you are saying. I would rather stand before God and be judged for loving someone than for condemning someone.
Same here, sista <3
All of us, regardless of what religion or spirituality we may or may not adhere to, have the same creator. i think of religions as roadmaps to God. At best, they guide people on a path to enlightenment. At worst, they are inconsequential and divisive. Religion shouldn’t be a bad thing, but ppl use it to cause harm and for their own selfish ends, but this shouldn’t deter people from the idea of God all together. It’s not a requirement to practice a religion in order to have a relationship with God. That is all.
People want to create God in their image. I know cause I am guilty of that. I also have been known to follow the unholy trinity: me, myself, and I.
I do believe God talks to people in the language they understand.
I agree hole heartedly. It is so wrong for people to try and make people think that how many times or where you attend church or how much you put in the offering plate is going to get you a better standing with God. Much less a place in heaven. People who feel list or confused about God or don’t believe at all will find their on truth in their own time. They don’t need anyone browbeating them. Sharing your experiences may help but all in let someone decide for themselves their path it will be more meaningful to them, and be there for your friends without judgement if they need you.
Whoops whole not hole I can’t spell for nothing in the world sorry.
Tamara you live in Atlanta right, you have perfect access to visit a great Pastor, Dr. Charles Stanley. I watch him on Sunday Morning, hopefully one day I can see him in person. Give it a try. God Bless.
Tourism to Jerusalem is bound to increase now that Kim and Kanye have been asked to be ambassadors. WTF?
Gosh, I remember when Whitney & Bobby went in all their drug fueled splendor. RIP Whitney….
Bobbaaaaaay! (Trying to keep it light;)
These stories are incredibly touching. As a mother I just could not ever imagine turning my back on one of my children. Not for sexual preferences, illnesses or anything. Anything.
@satinbliss, well said. I agree with you wholeheartedly. I’ve always thought, (and based on stuff I’ve read over the years) that religion in some cases has been a tool to control groups of people at different times, depending on who is doing the controlling. I believe you can have a relationship with God, or whoever or whatever you believe in, inside your closet, car or shower or wherever if you want to. The stories shared here are so inspiring, and they all translate to GOD for me.
I just took Refuge under Buddhism. Im like alot of people, I believe but i ask why. I suppose i dont have faith. When a person i know dies, i always whisper “Now you know the secret”. I find peace in total meditation plus the Bell Chant calms me when im having an anxious day i cant control.
Tamara, youre such an interesting person. Many deep layers. I learn from you and you bring me joy with your posts. Namaste
Since most wars are fought due to religion, im reminded of this.
Jesus wasnt a Christian
Mohammed wasnt a Muslim
Buddha wasnt a Buddhist
They were teachers, just like our Tamara. Sorry for double post, i will go to time out 🙂
Love your ideas, zenjen
Um Jesus was a Jew.
On Thu, Apr 16, 2015 at 1:24 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Tamara… trouble at home?
Interesting thread. I was raised by a woman that I am convinced was mentally ill. I was adopted as a baby by two well meaning people who became my parents. They were not very good at it, but I loved them anyway. When they split up (my dad had an affair) my mother tried to commit suicide. She was an extremely volatile and angry person. All the adults (my dad, sister, aunts) stayed away from her craziness, but I did not have that option. Looking back, I see how she struggled and how sad she was. I used to think she was mean, now I know she was scared. She died at 56 years old. When I got older, I asked why no one took her to a shrink, everyone said “we just don’t do that.” This country, in general needs to start having a serious conversation on mental illness, so people like my mother, @lisamia & @PixNTrix sons and others can get help. As we see from these experiences it affects far more than just the person struggling with the illness.
LOVE! I love counting crows! They still tour.
Um, I got fired from my job 2 weeks ago. I’m a teacher. My kids have the highest test scores in the school (as a class), but damn me for forgetting to stroke the right egos. So I was sad (devastated) for a good 10 days. I’m coming out of it thouGh. fucking charter schools can fire teachers in April without cause.
Anyway, I went to bible study yesterday with the Jehova witnesses who knocked on my door recently and it was great. I’m trying to say “yes” more.
I had the highest rest scores for sophomores and EL students in the school’s history but was let go when I was “caught” having 2 students live with me without being their guardian… bc i was supposed to let them be homeless and drop out of school apparently. Brush yourself off. Know you did the best you could. Find a job working at a non profit or in the system. Did they go after your credential? They went after mine for misconduct. The district has a rule of no students in the car. Yeah. A technicality.
Holy shit! I often picked up one of my low students when she missed the bus bc her people didn’t have a car. I never told the school though. If they had found out, I’d probably been fired sooner lol.
They aren’t going after me because I didn’t do anything “wrong.” I told my AP that her sources were lying to her when she would confront me with gossip that she allegedly heard about me. I told her gossip creates a toxic environment and I’d rather talk about any issues with the source, instead of playing telephone games. then I was told I’m “not a good fit.” in fucking April. After being there for 9 months with 27 days of school left. I definitely did learn my lesson about the importance of nodding and agreeing, though.
I bought some flowers today. It makes me incredibly happy to play in the dirt. Even happier if they flourish (today, a couple of double knockout roses, a hibiscus, and some sweet potato vine). It’s good therapy. The husband just wishes I’d plant something edible
I can’t plant anything. Itry but it’s so unfair to the plants. I’ve killed my kids tomatoe plant allready this year and I only touched it to bring it home from lowes. I couldn’t even grow pot in the early 80’s when I tried to to think I was somewhat of a hippie. Good thing that was short lived and I quit smoking it. That’s an expensive habit I didn’t need.
Ahhhh, memories. Everyone grew pot in their closet with grow lights or built a special room in the basement. Those were the days, my friend.
I am a plant murderer, and what plants I do grow, the cats eat. My roommate and I grew pot in our dorm closet back in the 70’s, but that was due to her good plant karma. I love hibiscus and their bright pinks and oranges.
I’d love to grow vegetables, but here in the land of caliche and rocks and hot sun, it’s tough going for someone with my bad karma. I even killed a cat claw vine. I haven’t killed the rosemary and oleanders, but they are hi-way weeds.
I bought some Hibiscus plants, too. I usually end up with only one or two flowers a day. In researching their care, I discovered they hate phosphorus (the middle number). I bought some special Carl Pool fertilizer for them on Amazon. From my experience, they also like LOTS of water. I have mine in full sun in pots and I water them in the morning and afternoon until the water runs out the bottom. So far, so good. They seem to like what I’m doing. I usually have at least 5 giant flowers on most days. I’ve also heard they do better the second and subsequent years after they get really established. Good luck with yours!
Thank you, diamondwater! I’ll try your tips. Hibiscus are only annuals where I live.
What are some great TT older posts?? Just put my boys down for naps and laying in bed. I feel like reading some good old posts since I am pretty new to her blog! Great tea and hilarious comments!
Several come to mind, just do a search. Teresa Giudice indictment; Chateau Sheree. You can also search by individual name or name of show.
Thanks. I found a few really good ones. I have a migraine today so I am sort of zoning out. I feel guilty kind of ignoring my kids but ah I can’t be auper mom everyday and its snowing outside sonI just want to read some funny gossip and relax.
My husband just told me when I leave this site up on the tablet he scrolls through her stories then filled me in on sheree…..lol this is very funny as he hates when I watch housewives but he bears it for me as I watch football. He said TT is really funny.
You have a very wise husband. Be nice to him. 🙂
On Thu, Apr 16, 2015 at 10:23 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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Jen, I guess you’ve read the Phaedra/Angela Stanton posts? No. words.
I love dirt under my nails and barefeet!
Free the Weed, giggles. Medical Cannabis activist
Recreational cannabis activist!!!
We have passed medical cannabis here in my state (taking effect in 2016). But they are taking the THC out of it and supplying it in pill form only.
I’m like “what kind of stupid shit is that”? Sheesh!
I thought THC was the chemical that stopped the nausea, helped the glaucoma, etc.
That may very well be. All I know is that it is the chemical that actually gets you high and gives you the euphoric feeling. And Dayton passed the law… But without the THC. So stupid. I don’t get the marijuana argument at all. I very rarely drink. I don’t like the feeling of being drunk and out of control. I never have more than one drink (maybe two if I am feeling a little randy). But i enjoy pot. I don’t smoke daily. I’m kind of a weekend warrior.
Nonetheless… It’s Agravating.
I know Pip, whole plant cannabis is what is beneficial. Tn and Ga has passed the same type of bill. But wait………yes, its RECREATIONAL in DC!!! 420 Protest
@zenjen-
It’s only matter of time (I am thinking five years max) before its legalized federally.
I know our politicians are stupid… But can they be stupid enough not to be taxing the shit out of this and reducing our deficit?
Weed is the safest drug out there. It has been proven time and time again. Alcohol is far more dangerous. Weed is not. Sorry for my rant, friends.
420 PROTEST!!!
I agree. Legalize pot and tax it. Look at the money and jobs it has brought to Colorado. How ever, I am sure big pharma is trying to figure out a way to get their hooks in to it. Then pot will become legal.
I’ve seen mean drunks, junkies, pill heads, but never mean dopers.
I never tried mj until the first time I was in amsterdam (26). It worked well for my pain. I noticed I could control dosage better in edibles. Washington has great edibles. You can know exactly how many mg works for you to feel what you want to feel, when it will kick in and when it will go away. I know TT said she had problems with paranoia, etc but a teenager probably has no idea what they’re doing… kind of like me saying, “I got drunk in high school off tequila and it was bad news bears.”
There are sativas (up, euphoric, makes music sound good) and indicas (down, relaxing, good for sleep and pain). There are different percentages of thc and cbds. There are different strains and combos. Like alcohol there are a lot of choices and people choose different strengths and quantities to consume. I make kief candy and donate it to pain patients (dispensaries give out my info to people that come and can’t afford it) and I donate to a couple cancer treatment centers (when my friend was living at one some dispensary sold there, but did not donate).
I don’t drink. And I shouldn’t with my meds. I dose once a day an hour before dinner (10mg thc in an edible chocolate less than a square cm). Works great for nausea so I can eat and I have less pain and feel happy.
I am in no way a hippie… but in high school we always said, ‘Help keep costs down, throw your seeds in the ground.’
I agree my mom was diagnosed with cancer in July. She has lost 55lbs. And is a rail from chemo. She can’t eat she can’t sleep she is sad and in pain and vomits several times daily. Cannibus would help all of this. She lives in a Bible Belt area if North Ca. so I don’t see legalization happening soon there. Even though it is a state vote and a huge tobacco state convincing conservative republicans( no offence even though I’m not) to vote for it seems hopeless right now. But I’m praying for it for her and people like her. It’s not fair to withhold medicine that has been used successfully in this country for many many years basically for hidden agenda’s by powerful pharmaceutical co. That get no kickbacks and research facilities that try to make us believe it’s the gateway drug and not alcohol the one that is legal and regulated by our gvmt.
Okay, I have a recipe for better than the box and quicker scalloped/ au gratin potatoes.
2 large peeled baking potatoez sliced ¼ inch thin.
1 small onion chopped fine.
2T butter
1 minced garlic clove
1 cup shredded cheddar, swiss, grueyere, or jack cheese, pepper jack is good,
½ cup grated parmesan or romano cheese
1T corn starch
Dash of cayenne
Salt and pepper
Dash of nutmeg
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cream, half and half, or evaporated milk. Cream tastes best.
Saute onion in butter in 10″ nonstick oven safe skillet. ( I wrap my skillets handle in foil to protect it.) Sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Cook until soft. Add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds. Add potatoes, cream, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Mix ¾ cup of cheddar, ¼ cup parm and cornstarch together in a small bowl. Add to potatoes off heat and stir. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add slices of ham or canadian bacon for a one dish meal. Arrange potatoes in even layer. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 425° on an upper middle rack for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown. This is 4 generous servings. Reheats well in microwave. Great with meatloaf, roast chicken, grilled fish or a vegetarian main dish.
I got this recipe from Cooks Country adjusted it a little.
That sounds really good. I suck at making scalloped potatoes. My mother could make them with her eyes closed. I’m ging to try your recipe. Thanks!
TT covers big brother…….yes! So excited for it to start back up. We are huge BB fans!
I got totally addicted to Big Brother last season because of this blog site…I love it! Sometimes I felt like I was living on the live feeds, and then TT would blog about whatever was going on. I can’t wait for it to start again either, it was a whole lot of fun! I might add, last season TT called the winner (Derrick) pretty much right off the bat. I’d never watched it before last season, and think I got real lucky because I got to watch Derrick and his strategic thinking and I’m glad he won. Anyway, here’s to BB17! Woohoo!
I traveled to Israel, Jordan and Palestine Nov/Dec 2013. I went alone for 17 days. I felt relatively safe most of the time and I highly recommend traveling through the region if you have the opportunity. The food was excellent! My itinerary: Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Eilat, Petra, Jerusalem. The only prepaid reservations I made were for the visit to Petra (because the border crossing can be difficult to do on your own) and the first three nights in Jerusalem. Just wanted to post my positive experience, because when I told people I was going they freaked out.
You rule! Thank you for sharing this experience. Next time I visit the region Petra is high on the list, even though my husband says the travel is not worth it. Whatever!
I thoroughly enjoyed poking around thw site reading old posts today. TT you are so funnyand talented. this is the best blog. Why did I not find this sooner? Lol.
TT, any news or updates on Bobbi Kris?
No. Nothing has changed. She’s just being warehoused.
On Thu, Apr 16, 2015 at 10:03 PM, Tamara Tattles wrote:
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So sad! I’m still praying for them all.
On a totally unrelated subject. I know TT has been really busy with a lot if updates and hasn’t had time for American Idol. Quintin brought out my inner cougar tonight. I don’t think I’ve heard his age. I’m hoping he’s at least 21. I don’t want to be a real sicko. I usually like big strong guys but his smile. The quirky style nothing I like but I like it for some reason. My menopause strikes again!
My first thought was here comes the sun. After a another look, my second thought was is it there goes the sun? Made me think of Sunrise Sunset from Fiddler.
Hi Tamara:
I was fortunate in getting to spend 5 mths. in Israel a very long time ago. It’s a beautiful country and Jerusalem is absolutely fascinating. One of my favorite things about it was spending the night in the old city and waking up to the call to prayer that could be heard everywhere within the city’s walls.
It was then (’70-’71) that I first learned about the Palestinian situation, a situation that has become much worse than it was back then. It’s heartbreaking to hear the stories my Palestinian friends bring back from their visits home. I’ll continue to pray for a resolution but it seems chances of that are fairly remote.
Anyway, glad to hear that you had a similar experience to mine when you visited Jerusalem.