text:
Zimmerman's Acquittal and the Call for a New Civil Rights Movement
George Zimmerman has been found innocent of both second-degree murder and manslaughter for the killing of Trayvon Martin. In spite of Zimmerman's history as a neighborhood watchman employing racial profiling; in spite of the fact that he was armed with a gun and Trayvon was not; in spite of the fact that he stalked Trayvon in a way that anyone would find threatening; in spite of his recorded menacing comments about "f…king punks," that "these assholes always get away"; and in spite of his defiance of a 911 operator who told him he did not need to follow Trayvon, Zimmerman is free.
On the other hand, Trayvon has been found guilty. In dropping all charges against Zimmerman, the jury concluded that Trayvon had thrown the first punch in response to Zimmerman's threatening behavior, and therefore Zimmerman was justified in shooting him in self-defense.
If only it could be said that a more perverse and twisted miscarriage of justice by our legal system was hard to find. Agonizingly, it is not. For millions of people this tragic affair was never simply about a confrontation between Zimmerman and Martin. It was the United States justice system that was on trial under charges of institutional racism — and it has proven itself guilty.
To begin to appreciate the significance of this, some context is necessary. A study by the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, entitled "Operation Ghetto Storm" revealed:
"In July 2012, in the tradition of 'On Lynching' by Ida B. Wells-Burnet and 'We Charge Genocide' by William L. Patterson, the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement released a critical report that exposed the fact that in the first six months of the year a Black man, woman, or child was summarily executed by the police, and a smaller number of security guards and self-appointed vigilantes, Every 36 Hours! But the July 2012 report did not tell the whole story. Further investigation revealed a more accurate and gruesome number of extrajudicial killings during the first six months of the year. And true to form, the assault on Black life stayed consistent for the last six months of the year, resulting in the extrajudicial killing of at least 313 Black people in 2012, or one every 28 Hours!"
These killings, without pretext or legal consequences, demonstrate that the stormy reactions following Trayvon's murder and Zimmerman's initial release without charges weren't the result of an outrageous break from how the U.S. justice system operates. Rather, it was because the tragedy was yet another example of this system's outrageous racist norm.
During the initial wave of mass protests against Trayvon Martin's murder in 2012, many chanted and carried signs saying, "I am Trayvon Martin." For black participants this was more than an expression of solidarity. It was an acknowledgement of the racist reality that they too could easily meet a similar fate to Trayvon's — that is, becoming a victim of state sanctioned murder.
Authorities initially expected Zimmerman's murder of Trayvon to disappear from the radar as he walked free. That is the normal script for how such incidents play out. However, the recording of Zimmerman's 911 call was too dramatic for the press to let slip away.
The tape and Zimmerman's release without charge sparked a national wave of protests that included the peaceful shutdown of the Sanford Police Department for five hours. And the impact of the public's reaction brought results. Sanford Police Chief Bill Lee was forced to resign. The Federal Justice Department's Civil Rights Division opened an investigation to the killing.
If it were not for the mass reaction, Zimmerman never would have been put on trial. With313 black people killed by police, some security guards, and self-appointed vigilantes in 2012 without legal consequence, the wave of protest following Trayvon's killing is the main factor explaining why events here took a different turn.
Those in power were forced to change their tactics in order to contain popular revolt. The importance of this cannot be overestimated despite the trial's outcome. What the trial revealed is that the system of racial oppression in this country is not all-powerful. It can be challenged and ultimately overturned. It also revealed that what is required to move this process forward is a campaign of mass organizing — with a political perspective that demonstrates a clear path for judicial change if the grassroots can be mobilized to confront our oppressors.
We need an ongoing mass civil rights movement with the power to pull out racism from the political and economic foundations of the U.S. by its roots. That power can only be built by unifying the vast majority against an economic elite which controls the political system and profits from blacks' oppression. The mass protests that will erupt in response to Zimmerman's acquittal can act as a springboard for such a movement, as long as participants understand the need to commit themselves to the long-haul struggle.
The NAACP is urging Attorney General Eric Holder to open up a civil rights case against Zimmerman. By itself, this is an impotent plea. However, combined with a sustained campaign of mass actions — not only for justice for Trayvon, but as a challenge to the racist norm of the U.S. legal system — this approach may bear fruit.
The only certainty is that we cannot sit at home and let the courts work through their process. We must mobilize and organize to assert popular power independent of the courts and corporate Democrat and Republican parties if we are to create a world where Trayvon, and the millions he has come to represent, can thrive without fear.
Mark Vorpahl is a union steward, social justice activist and a writer for Workers Action and Occupy.com. He can be reached at email@example.com.


text:
Future Tactics
Future Tactics
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Welcome to the future--a place where creatures have forced humans to live in squalor, battling their overlords and waxing nostalgic for better days. Now, a young boy named Low, his sister, and a collection of fighters find themselves as mankind's only hope for blasting the creatures back to where they came from. You must guide this ragtag team of survivors through 19 levels of tactical combat while upgrading them with powerful weapons. In Battle mode, you can take on a friend in tactical warfare--complete with customizable handicaps, power-ups, and victory conditions.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Dana and her children
Thursday, September 10, 2015
An Open Letter to Anna Duggar
486 comments:
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 8:21 AM
Owning it. Amen!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 8:33 AM
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 8:52 AM
So beautifully written.... I hope you find comfort and encouragement in those words. (Aussie mum)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 8:56 AM
Well said! Praying for you, Anna.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 9:01 AM
What an amazing letter! I hope Anna has a chance to read it!!!!!!!!!ReplyDelete
sending big hugs to Anna!!!
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 9:18 AM
Anna, I have walked in similar shoes as yours. I am now a Grandma of 6 and can tell you, God can bring you through this! Stay grounded in the Scriptures, find and stay in a sound church, lean on God daily. Regardless of whether your marriage stays together, mine did not, God will bring you through this. There are happier days ahead and even peace of mind and heart that you probably can not even imagine right now, but it will come. Rejoice in the small daily blessings God will provide just for you daily. He loves you and will stay close to you. He will lovingly care for and guide you and your children throughout the days and years to come. You are in my prayers.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 9:35 AM
Very well said. Totally agree. Hold your head high AnnaReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 9:47 AM
I hope Anna reads this. Beautifully written!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 9:47 AM
Wow, amazing!ReplyDelete
very well said. Anna, if you ever see these words please feel the love and virtual hugs you have been receiving from around the world. I've met most of the Duggar family but sadly the one I wanted to meet the most and give a hug to was you, but you werent with them. Everytime I come to Springdale I say a little prayer that I may run across you by chance so I could tell you in person how much I absolutely adore and admire your class and patience and grace. Even before all this mess began I have had a soft spot for you in my heart. You always struck me as the kindhearted friend everyone wishes they are blessed to have in their life. You are strong. You are smart, and you are faithful. Dont ever forget that and know that whatever the outcome is for you and your family, you will have support for whatever you need.ReplyDelete
Such raw truth. Anna, you are not alone. Love from Gainesville.ReplyDelete
Too many of us have been through this and this letter says it all. God will see you through this. Praying for you and your family Anna!ReplyDelete
What an AMAZING letter. Praying for Anna and the rest of the family. Stay strong with the Lord.ReplyDelete
Very thoughtful and amazing! Keeping you and your family in my prayers Anna!ReplyDelete
Heart felt words that ring with truth. Anna, you are fearfully and wonderfully made. God delights over you. Rest in His love and promises.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:02 AM
I don't think anyone could have put betters words down on paper. Anna you are strong! You are loved! You are amazing!ReplyDelete
Just know Anna, you are not alone in this!!ReplyDelete
Wonderful advice. Many people are praying for Anna and the entire family. Follow your own heart, Anna, and don't let anyone else tell you what YOU need to do. God will guide your heart.ReplyDelete
Wow! Well saidReplyDelete
coming back to LA 19 Kids and Counting coming back this fallReplyDelete
Fascinating that you would choose to publish this, rather than just sending it to her directly.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:09 AM
Beautiful letter!!! Anna you are a wonderful person!!!! Hold your head High!!!!ReplyDelete
Such beautiful words and well written. I hope with all of the love there is for you all, I sure hope you feel it. God is a GREAT GOD. He will NEVER fail you. Keep your eyes on him. Love and prayers to you all. God bless you all.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:09 AM
Your heart will tell you your truth, and your path....ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:10 AM
This is beautifully written! Anna, every word is so true. I have been in your shoes, with 5 children, and God will make beauty from ashes whether your marriage lasts or not. Listen. To the Holt Spirit guide as you think out future steps, do not listen to man. I did what everyone told me not to do, but I listened to God and held firm and God protected me, guided .e and I have total peace because I knew I walked in obedience. Take care of yourself and your family now. Let God work on Josh. God is the ultimate healer and stay on your knees for your marriage, whether it looks bleak or not. I'm praying for all of you and Josh to be redeemed!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:11 AM
Amazing written!ReplyDelete
Beautifully written. Praying for you Anna and your precious babies.ReplyDelete
I couldn't have said it better myself. As a survivor of domestic violence (of every kind), I can honest say this letter speaks VOLUMES in terms of truth and strength. You have my fullest support, Anna. Love and hugs from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.ReplyDelete
Very well said! You are not alone many are praying for you. HugsReplyDelete
You are so loved Anna. There are many praying for you and your children. God is good and He will give you peace and guidance. You are His child, and He cares deeply for you.ReplyDelete
Amen !!! God Bless You & your family !!ReplyDelete
Beautifully writren. Anna I don't know you, but I want you to know, I'm praying for you, Makenzie, Michael, Marcus, and the baby daily. God has you in the palm of his hand, he knows what is coming and he will get you through it. Just stay grounded in your faith. May God Bless you and your family.ReplyDelete
Anna, you are HIS precious daughter. Don't listen to all those haters who are saying horrible things about your husband and family. Jesus is the only hope for any future! We thank God with you, that HE holds you in HIS hands.ReplyDelete
Beautifully written and so full of truth! As another "fellow traveler" thank you for putting into words what we all wish we could say or are still learning. Even this journey has joy as we learn to navigate a new path.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:13 AM
Beautifully writren. Anna I don't know you, but I want you to know, I'm praying for you, Makenzie, Michael, Marcus, and the baby daily. God has you in the palm of his hand, he knows what is coming and he will get you through it. Just stay grounded in your faith. May God Bless you and your family.ReplyDelete
THIS is the best thing I have seen written about the whole disaster!!!! We love you Anna as does God even when you don't/can't love yourself. Make the best decisions you can at any given time and permit yourself new decisions when necessary!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:14 AM
Yes! Anna, please read! :)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:15 AM
Anna you are not alone in this struggle please know that there are people who are here for you. I've walked that lonely road it will get better.Trust in your heart and in god he will bring you through this.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:15 AM
Yes, that was soooo honestly beautiful!!!!ReplyDelete
My prayers are with you at this time. Hold on to God. He has all the answers.ReplyDelete
Profound words!ReplyDelete
Anna I have watched you thru the years. You are beautiful inside and out. That letter saids it all. Never blame yourself! Only one to blame is Josh. Stay strong. One thing he did give you is a beautiful family(The Duggars), and four beautiful children. My prayers are with you.ReplyDelete
Wow. What incredible encouragement for our sister in Christ. ��ReplyDelete
I am on the path with you, Anna. Keep going and doing the hard things. You can make it through this with the Lord's help.ReplyDelete
Well done! Yes, Anna, know that all this is not your fault nor your responsibility. Nor is it your responsibility to fix. God will love you and your family through this. Remember that Jesus said that his yoke was easy, and his burden was light.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:18 AM
I to have been in your shoes before Anna. I am on the other side now. God has done amazing things, but I wouldn't wish this road to walk on anyone. This ministry https://www.rejoiceministries.org helped me so much during my dark time when my husband was wondering.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:18 AM
The letter was excellent advice !! I went through it 50 years ago. I want to stress one thing that was said----- It was not about anything you did or didn't do !ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:20 AM
This is not only to help anna but to help others reading it. It was such a blessing to me in just reading it, powerful messageReplyDelete
I also have been in the position you are now in,Anna you are not alone even though it may feel that you are,you are stronger than you think and no one can tell you what to do or how to feel. Staying in the situation wasn't for me but if you feel it's right for you you will only get stronger. Don't keep your feelings locked inside it will be healing for you.God bless you and may he give you the strength you need.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:22 AM
PERFECT LETTER!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:22 AM
Beautiful words and advice. Will lift you and your children up in prayer.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:23 AM
I, too, have been in your shoes with our horror being publicly displayed and discussed. It was many years ago, Anna, and although it seems impossible each day will be better. Focus on you and your children. And, please remember it is not your job or responsibility to fix Josh. That is up to him.ReplyDelete
Beautiful...keep strong...praying for you and ur sweet familyReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:23 AM
This was so beautifully written and so true! I have been praying for Anna and my heart has hurt for her as well.ReplyDelete
Beautifully said. Praying for you Anna.ReplyDelete
Thank you Dana for speaking with love and truth, thank you Duggars for sharing as many will be blessed by this. I continue to lift you all up in prayer.ReplyDelete
So very true. You will find out through this trying time who your true friends are. As the song states Be strong in the Lord and be of good courage your mighty commander will vanquish the foes. Fear not the battle for the victory for the victory is always his. He will protect you wherever you go. May the almighty God be with you now and forever more.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:24 AM
That's exactly what Anna needs to hear. She is not alone, though the paths aren't alike, there are so many like it.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:25 AM
We love you Anna, and Duggar Family. I hope you find courage and strength through this trying time. Thinking of you all often and praying for you always.ReplyDelete
The Monnin's
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:26 AM
I am praying for you and all the family Anna. I am thankful for families like the Duggers who are not ashamed of professing your faith. Much love and peaceReplyDelete
I've been in your shoes years back! The Lord taught me to trust Him in everything, He has the best plan. Continue to live to please The Lord in forgiving, and loving as He has created a new spirit within you! You can't do that without Him, He knows the path for you and your children. As He guides you, walk in dignity and grace, loving unconditionally, forgiving, and never taking on anyone else's baggage. Carry on! Enjoy each day, knowing The Lord carries you! 😍ReplyDelete
Beautifully said. This is exactly what I wish I could have told her.ReplyDelete
Ladies i hope you got this letter to Anna!ReplyDelete
Anna, you are beautiful and you can do and be anything you wish. God's holy spirit is in you and with you. Hold your head high and praise him for your journey has not endes. Love you.ReplyDelete
What an amazing letter. A Fellow Traveler has helped Anna and many, many more travelers by posting this. Thank you. I needed to hear these words today.ReplyDelete
Beautiful letter. I also know the feeling. Just know you did nothing wrong. Put your faith to work but never forget to ask for some help you will need it.ReplyDelete
Praying for Anna. This is great advice..ReplyDelete
Amazingly beautiful, nobody can guide you through this but yourself and God. Lean on his grace and allow His strength to fill you in whatever decision you make.ReplyDelete
I wish I could give you a big hug. The media attention must be terrible. Keep standing by Josh. You will both come victoriously through this trial and be even a stronger testimony to God's love and grace. I know you will be an encouragement to other Christians struggling through a similar situation. I'd love to see you write a book telling how God walked with you and Josh & healed. God will work this out for good as we hold dear as promised in Romans 8:28. I continue to hold you, Josh, and all your family & in-laws in prayer before the throne of God. Love you all.ReplyDelete
Beautifully written words of truth. I hope Anna finds comfort and wisdom in them.ReplyDelete
i couldnt have said it any better. i too have become a part of this club. i blamed myself instead of him. i did things to try and get him to change but it never did. i was beaten for simple things like not having the house clean by 830 am every morning. im glad she hasnt gone to that club. i know josh loves her and will never physically hurt her and i am glad of that. i wish i could give her hugs, help her with the kids if she wanted a break or just listen while she talks. anything that would help right now i would do for her. the last thing anyone in this club wants or wanted was to be alone. and she is very lucky to have so many people in her family and this blog wanting to help herReplyDelete
Amen!! Anna she is telling you the truth!! Be yourself stay strong healthy courage one day at a time with god and for you and your childrens.I fully understand ive been on yr side. Love you its not your faulth xxx Hugs Anna Québec CanadaReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:33 AM
I am not a fellow traveler, but this spoke volumes to my heart. I pray that Anna sees this and it touches her as it was intended. God bless her and the children!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:34 AM
God Bless you Anna, and Family & Duggar Family!!! Amen , and Amen...ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:35 AM
Praying for u and your children , seek God and the Holy Spirit will guide you, read his word daily the answers are in the bible and seek Godly counsel , dont forsake Christian fellowship and churchReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:36 AM
Beautifully written.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:37 AM
Amen! I lived it and survived it. We didn't stay married but we stayed best friends for ourselves and our two daughters. You are not alone. God is bending you not breaking you. It's not about you. You didn't do this. Josh is struggling within and will survive too. Prayers for you, Josh and your family.ReplyDelete
This is so well written and said. Those have been on this same journey know how true they are. Anna, cling tight to those who know your true heart well, and cling tighter to the Lord whom loves you best. Listen to that deep, quiet inner voice, it will lead you well.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:40 AM
Well said! Anna, May the peace of God finds you during this difficult time. I will be praying for you and your family.ReplyDelete
Beautiful letter - Time will take care pf everything and God will show you the way. Just breathe, pray, take care of those babies and know that you are in out thoughts and prayersReplyDelete
Prayers for you Anna and the entire Duggar family. You have always been and will continue to be such a inspiration to our family. You have always shown love, compassion, kindness, caring, grace, and mercy to those around you. No matter the circumstances you hold strong to your faith and your family. Your humbleness Anna, has encouraged me. I am a mother of 4 and always try to do everything strong sure but alone...my husband works all the time. Mothers and wives go through far more than anyone can understand. I commend your strength and humility and pray for strength for you through this season in your family's life. God bless and prayers with love.ReplyDelete
Anna ...I pray for you daily & your children. The letter wrote by Dana was beautiful. We all have fear of the unknown and this journey your on, many women have been on. Just remember the scripture. God walks with you every step of the way.. Deuteronomy 31-8 he will never leave you or forsake you. You are not alone. Every women who has walked this journey is praying for you. Prayers for peace, prayers for comfort. ((Hugs from Tn) - AllieReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:42 AM
Hello Anna my heart felt feelings go out to you. I have experienced your heart ache and am praying for you.ReplyDelete
That spoke right to my heart. Thank you.ReplyDelete
You aren't alone Anna, keep your head up hugs....ReplyDelete
Beautiful words. Thank you Dana for writing this letter!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:44 AM
That spoke right to my heart. I too have dealt with this pain. And have never healed from it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul for writing this!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:44 AM
Exactly the truth was,said here. I have been down this horrible trip that feels like hell but I made it and you can too. God is good look to him for your strength and answers. He can do miraculous things. Just listen and trust him alone. God have mercy and a huge dose of grace for you and your family.ReplyDelete
Praying for you guys continued healing and restoration.ReplyDelete
I too understand your stuggle at this time. I am a survivor of domectic violence . My ex husband tried to convince me that the abuse , drugs ,Alcohol and extra marital affairs were my fault . They were not my fault they were all his doing by his own choice. He made the choice to hurt me and our three children. I made the choice to save myself and my children from the betrayal and heart aches, he caused us. Youare a beautiful spirit and daughter of daughter of God. He has so much more in store for you and your family. So I send you love , understanding faith prayers and hugs. God bless you and your children.ReplyDelete
Even those who have not walked down that road can pray for you and ask God to guide you every day and hold you in his loving arms. We love you and pray that prayer.ReplyDelete
Praying for you Anna.ReplyDelete
Very well said, you have many supporters and resources that are Available to you Anna. Praying for you.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:49 AM
What a beautiful letter. Anna, as Dana stated I don't know you, but I feel very "motherly" towards you and if I could I would give you a big hug and tell you that you will get through this one way or the other. Stay strong and God BlessReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:51 AM
Wonderful words Dana. Anna know that there are people who are praying for you and your family. I maybe a stranger, but I'm your sister in Christ.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:52 AM
Anna, you are not alone. I have been through the same thing and I wish I could talk to you. I was publicly embarrassed also and it was terrible. I did survive with the help of friends and family and you will too. I want to give you a hug and talk to you and tell you not to give up. Everyone respects you. You will become stronger for all of this, believe me, as horrible as it is now, you will survive. Everyone feels the love for you, just remember that.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:53 AM
Amen! Praying that God will bring Anna strength peace and comfort during this hard time and also that God's will be done in her life. Sending prayers for her sweet babies as well ! May our heavenly father wrap you all in his arms and guide you through this !ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:53 AM
That letter was very well said. I know because I needed those words 4 years ago. I've been down that path, too. I can say, though, that God is good and faithful. He has been working to heal my hurt and restore trust. He has restored our marriage to better than it was before. I hope you're at Family Camp, so I can tell you this in person.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:54 AM
A letter of truth as I know first hand. Prayers are with you and all who want to allow God to call the shots after such an experience. God bless.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 10:56 AM
Dear Anna, I have not been through a cheating husband but something similar. My husband was gone for two years because of it. When he came back, it took some adjusting but he joined my church. He is a christian man but did not always live up to that. Now our marriage is stronger, we have a beautifull 5yr old daughter and he has a decent job. I knew that what he did was not a reflection on me as a wife, but his own addiction he had to overcome and make peace with God. I needed and did forgive him. We still have issues as every married couple does but we have found ways to work through those. May the peace of the Lord be with you and your children and family though this difficult time.ReplyDelete
Like many, my heart hurts for Anna, the children and the whole Duggar family. I pray for Josh often and pray he comes out of his on top and goes back to being a devoted husband and father. Everyone is spitting on him, but more then ever this family needs a realistic dose of suppose, prayers and love. Which they have. We aren't just fans, but we consider them part of our Christian family.ReplyDelete
Stay strong Duggar family, Anna we love and pray for you and the children!!
Beautifully written and SO true! Praying that God will give you grace, strength, wisdom and peace as you walk this incredibly difficult journey.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:03 AM
Well written with lots of love. You and your family are in my prayers, Anna.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:03 AM
Amen and amen. So very well said. From yet another traveler.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:04 AM
WOW, very powerful words. Thank you to the lady who took the time to write that letter. God bless you Anna. You are prayed for and thought about daily. Take care of that wonderful familyReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:04 AM
Some of the best advice you will ever receive was in that letter to you. Lots of love there. Read and read again.ReplyDelete
What a beautiful and well Said Letter!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:06 AM
Awesome words! Anna you've got this!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:06 AM
Awesome words! Anna you've got this!ReplyDelete
What an amazing letter,the truth and the facts.I am praying for you Anna. you are not alone Hugs.ReplyDelete
I remember the day my world shattered. It was a sucker punch. Everything seemed great. I didn't have the world's media sensationalizing my story but I am a church secretary with three kids. I look back on that day with heartache and remorse for the "world" I had before the news. But I also look back on that day as the day that God cared enough to break my heart for honesty, transparency and hope to replace the automatic "church face" we were wearing. Four years and a new baby, we are still on the path of restoration. I feel there will always be a vulnerable soft spot - a scar that will always remain. I remember sitting in our Pastor's office sobbing, my head hung low in shame, and him looking me in the eyes and saying "God will use this." This is not your shame to wear, though I'm sure there is someway in some form you can look back and think "I could've been better here", but this wasn't your choice. I say this to every woman who finds herself in this seat. This wasn't your choice. You didn't choose this path, but God can use this. There will come a day when you will find a ministry, a purpose, "good" that can come out of this, perhaps when you are sitting across from another young mom in your seat, then you can hold her hand and help her through this storm. God can use this.ReplyDelete
I think you know you are not alone. However I am not convinced that you don't realize not to blame yourself. Be proud of the mother and woman you are. If you feel you want to suppt him, by all means do so. But please do not let yourself fall victim to his shame. We all still love you!!ReplyDelete
Beautifully written. Praying God's best for Anna and her family. Healing and forgiveness comes from God and drawing close to Him. I know because it happened to me and my 2 children but by God's Grace, God healed my heart and my marriage is stronger than ever. Nothing is impossible when you put your trust in God...including healing a very hurting family.ReplyDelete
What an amazing letter,there is so much truth listed there.You are strong Anna,just be guided by your inner feelings. I am praying for you that when the time comes you will make the right decisionReplyDelete
Well said and prayers for Anna and the children.ReplyDelete
Beautifully said, as a woman who has also been in those shoes. I had to make the choice between, A husband that was untruthful from day one as to his sexuality, his integrity an by the time I found out. I had 3 young children an pregnant with my 4th. Scared, alone in a motel room nowhere to go, short on family & support. I lived in a one bedroom for a yr with my children struggling to live on less then 500$ a month. But in the end it taught me that I could do anything I set my mind too. It showed my children you do not have to give up your integrity & morals for anyone else.. I am mixed on should she stay or go, because I do believe ppl are not always beyond repairing their lives & relationships. It took me 3 yrs to leave. But I also knew it had to be my decision not anyone else's. Good luck & much love one this journey in your life. It will only make you stronger in the end no matter what you chose to do <3ReplyDelete
This was a heartfelt letter. I am glad that this wonderful woman wrote this letter. Anna needs these kinds of people in her life. Too bad you all have to muddle through the venomous letter to find this diamond in the rough. Anyhow, may God bless Anna during these difficult days, and months ahead. Also may God bless the whole Duggar family.ReplyDelete
This is the most amazing post I have read in regard to Anna. To know her is to love her. I totally agree with all points made. I pray not only for Anna, but also for Josh. This type of thing happens in many families, but we only hear about the ones who are celebrities. I know that Josh loves you. Satan is going about like a roaring lion. I will continue to pray for your family.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:14 AM
May the Lord Bless and keep you and your beautiful children safe from harm and keep you from all the hurtful people.ReplyDelete
Amen! Sending love, prayers, and hugs your way Anna!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:16 AM
That was beautifully written and the words are great words of hope. Anna, you ARE a wonderful person and you married into a wonderful family. Josh is not the horrible person that the media has made him out to be....YES, he has done horrible things but he had a sickness that he didn't get help for when he should of. It wasn't your fault though Anna. You are a beautiful person with the biggest heart of anyone that has ever been on TV. I really wish TLC would see this as an opportunity to showcase a REAL Christian family...the trials and tribulations they go through but how they can lean on God and his faithfulness and grace to help us through even the darkest days. I'm not one of the people that is condemning Josh...that is not my job but I do NOT condone what he has done either. I do pray that he gets the help he needs and is really committed to changing his life. He is not a bad person....just a person that made bad choices but our God is a GOOD God...full of grace and forgiveness if we confess our sins and are truly sorry for what we did....not just sorry we got caught. I'm going to believe in Josh and I'm praying for the entire Duggar family. I have grown to love them all and miss their show. They taught me so much about the person that I strive to be. Anna, you will make it through this and show the world your dignity and grace. Dana is so right about accepting help at this time. There will be days when you don't feel like making a meal but know that your children need to eat....let someone else feed them at that time. Let someone else do the laundry and the dishes and YES, treat yourself to something special. Anna, you deserve to be happy and happiness WILL come back into your life but it will take time to heal and YES, only you know Josh's heart and intentions. It's your decision as whether or not to have Josh in your life. I'm praying for you, your marriage, your children, your life, your struggles and everyday, I pray that you have moments of peace and happiness. Each day will get a little better. Stay focused on God and know that you are loved by thousands and thousands of people. Love to all the Duggars.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:16 AM
Anna, you are loved. You are prayed for! You are His child and He promises to walk with you through this valley. He will pick you up and carry you when it's just too hard to go on. Love from your friend in NC!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:18 AM
A very well written letter. These words ring so true for many of us today. Anna, I've watched you on TV for years now with the duggars. You are a beautiful bright young woman and only you know what's going on and what to do. Most importantly, trust in God and give it to Him. We can say we've been in your place, but in reality none of us have ever been where you are today. We've been through the cheating and lies, true. But the big difference is that yours happened on national tv for the whole world to see and gossip about.ReplyDelete
I don't condemn josh for his mistakes, and I won't judge him. Only God can or should judge him. It's not our place as humans to ever judge someone for their actions or beliefs. I pray for you and your family. I will continue to pray that God shows you the way and heals you and your family as only He can. God Bless you Anna 💗
amazing words, and so truthful. God will see you through Anna. Love those Babies a little harder, they need it too. Josh has a long road ahead of him, and God will also see him through. Follow your heart Anna. You may think that you can't do this, and the truth is maybe you can not at this very moment. Have faith that, that that moment will come to you. Prayers for your whole family. Blessings from Arizona.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:23 AM
Beautifully written. You and all the Duggar family are in my prayers.ReplyDelete
An excellent letter. Very well said. I have been in this place myself. My husband of 22 years abandoned our marriage for sordid affairs. It was the most painful time of my entire life. This happened 4 years ago. He would not repent and divorce was the result. I met a godly widowed man in church and have since remarried. The pain of my journey through divorce and adultery can be survived, but you do need traveling companions and lots of support. KellyReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:23 AM
Amen and Amen! Praying for you Anna and your family! You are a beautiful family! Loves, hugs and prayers from MO!ReplyDelete
Very well said Dana. Thank you for taking the time to minister to Anna and the rest of us that are suffering.ReplyDelete
First, thank you Dana. I think you hit all the points. Second, Anna, this letter really hits on everything that you probably feel and will feel in the days ahead. I too am a member of this horrible club and I was mad at God for a long time. This anger brought me so much closer to Him and made me a better and stronger woman. I pray for you and the children and I also pray for Josh. God will guide you and walk alongside you everyday. God bless you.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:25 AM
I have been through this not once but twice, Anna, and I feel your pain. But the pain will lessen over time when you let go and let God. Concentrate on yourself and your children, there is nothing you can do to change Josh, that is between God and Josh. And listen to Dana, none of this is your fault in any way. You did not fail him. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers and may God continue to bless you and keep you safe. Your sister in Christ, Joyce Anglin Miller.ReplyDelete
I think this is the worlds lesson, and test in the commandment of forgiving. I forgave him right from the start because everyone makes mistakes. This world we live in right now is so full of temptations. This is their personal lives that we are all witnessing. Such a wonderful family, and it just proves that satin is alive and well and preys on the people that are trying thier best to be good, and stand up for the life Jesus would have us live. Im sad not to watch my favorite Dugger tv show everyday. It was so inspiring and uplifting and even though we werent the same faith, (Im mormon), we have have same goal, of proclaiming God and his love for each of us, and His will here on the earth. Blessings to the whole family!! Love you from afar.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:27 AM
I know this was meant for Anna, but it was definitely something I needed to read for myself. God bless you Anna!ReplyDelete
Beautifully written letter full of God's truth. Praying for you Anna!ReplyDelete
This is the most caring thing I've read about this whole mess to date. Thank you, Dana, for your empathetic heart for Anna. 💗ReplyDelete
so beautifully, gracefully, factually and truthfully said. Having walked this journey before, I too can echo the pain is not to be ignored, avoided or glossed over. Prayers for each of you Duggars.ReplyDelete
Love this! Had to walk a similar path! This is great advise! Especially the part about the shame Not being yours!ReplyDelete
Anna..MEMORIZE this. And with our Heavenly Father's grace & help...OWN it. I love you, dear sis in the Lord...ReplyDelete
So very trueReplyDelete
I have been in your shoes, Anna. I am praying for you as you walk this road. Through this process, I pray that God would show himself to you in the most amazing ways. God is faithful. He loves you and he is the God who sees!! You are beautiful and he will raise up beauty from these ashes! He will redeem this hurt!ReplyDelete
Love it...ReplyDelete
Amen! Wonderful letter. Hang in there, Anna. You have hundreds and hundreds of people praying for your beautiful heart. I pray that God will give you comfort, resilience, and peace. This too shall pass.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:32 AM
Exactly 20 years ago I was right where you are Anna. I had just found out that my husband of 8 years had been unfaithful multiple times. I had two small children (one a baby) and had just given up my career to be a full time stay-at-home mom. Today I am still happily married to that same man. Forgiving him and moving forward was the hardest thing I've ever done. Lean on God like never before, trust His promises and pray for your husband even though you really feel like killing him (be painfully honest with yourself). This was NOT your fault and you are NOT to blame. People who tell you otherwise are not your real friends and family. Be kind to yourself. Take it one day at a time. Please know that there is NO shame in separation or divorce if he refuses to change! This letter offers excellent advice. My prayers are with you Anna!ReplyDelete
Anna. MEMORIZE this letter & its words. Then: with our Heavenly Father's grace & help, OWN it! I love you, sister in Christ...ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:34 AM
amen your a great wife and motherReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:34 AM
@Anonymousamen..In sickness and health...til death do us part...Josh has a mental illness and has taken steps to heal...He may fail, but with encouragement keep seeking help.ReplyDelete
My heart has been breaking for you Anna! I have been married for 36 years to a man who is bipolar and has been unfaithful. I pray that you will be drawn to the Lord in ways you never dreamed of. During my darkest trials, I have had the sweetest fellowship with Christ. Please do not feel like you are to blame or that you can "fix" Josh. Surround yourself with Godly women - and especially women who know what you are going through. I agree with the above letter - do not let anyone try to tell you what you should do. The people who truly support you will be the ones who stand with you regardless of what you decide to do in the future. I have been praying for you and your family and will continue to do so. Love in Christ, LynnReplyDelete
This is beautifully written and so full of truth! I am one who has already walked this path with my husband, yes, we are still married. It wasn't easy but with God and a lot of prayers, we made it! Know there are thousands of women out there praying for you daily! Love and hugs Anna! God didn't bring you to it if He wasn't going to help you through it!ReplyDelete
Dear sweet Anna i have also walked in your shoes. Its not easy but put your faith and trust is God and you will make it. I had to deal with 2 children from my husbands actions. I have stayed with him. Not a easy thing but it is good now. God will not fault you if you stay or if you go. Just know you are a daughter of a loving heavenly father who will never leave you. God Bless YouReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:40 AM
. What a well written letter of encouragement I pray she reads it.ReplyDelete
Anna I'm sending virtual hugs to you. So sorry that this was done
to you. Sending my prayers from Canada.
Anna you have a kind,gentle, paitent and encouraging soul.
Take it easy Anna ask for help and let others help you through this difficult journey.
Remember Jesus is always with you. HE LOVES YOU SO MUCH.
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:40 AM
I posted on one of the blogs something similar to this. She is so right you are not alone. There are many of us out there that have gone down this road. It is a hard one to travel. Listen to what's she says Anna she is speaking the truth. You are the only one that knows you and Josh. This is your life and your choice. Everyday you need to focus on you and the children you need to heal. It won't ever go away but one day things will be manageable, I promise. Yes I have gone down this journey going on 7 years now. Our story didn't happen like yours mine had a relationship with someone and other things that will forever follow me. I am so sorry for you Anna. I know you hurt to a point that you can't function at times and that you get mad and angry at everything and everyone. You will have many emotions. Nothing is your fault remember that. Reach out not just to loved ones and friends because they will not truly understand even though they mean well. You will remain in my thoughts.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:41 AM
She is an amazing woman that wrote the letter. She knows the fullness of Gods grace. praying for you (all)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:42 AM
I've been married 20 years and have 6 children. I have been though struggles much like this. Always remember, it has nothing to do with you. It was hard for me to realize this. Am I not pretty enough? Thin enough? It's a sickness inside him that only he can change through seeking help. God bless your sweet family.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:42 AM
Dana, such an honorable and giving woman you are. And to share this with Anna and every woman out there.....shows how much God is a part of your life and everyone's life. Let him in and he will lead you.....ReplyDelete
God bless
WOW! What awesome and powerful words! well said! Anna, we, Mothers, Sisters, Daughters and Friends are all out here, we are on your side. God will see you through this. The best advice I ever got about my husband was from my Mother. Anna, talk to your Mom!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:45 AM
You are not alone, my kids and I walk beside you having traveled the same road you are on. Praying God wraps his arms around you and your family for comfort and strength. You will survive this, done let it define you. Praying for you daily. Misti, Lenoir city tennessee.ReplyDelete
Very well saidReplyDelete
Anna, my heart aches for you as I'm going through this right now, too. I am a Christian woman with grown children and it does not get easier just because the children are older. I wish I could sit and talk, cry, laugh, and pray with you. Lean on the Holy Spirit, who intercedes for us when we don't know what to say. God sees the big picture and has a wonderful plan for you.ReplyDelete
Those words are so correct..praying for you .ReplyDelete
Very well said! Keeping you in prayer. You are not aloneReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:51 AM
Beautiful words!ReplyDelete
I hope that no matter what you choose, Anna- your family on both sides will encourage and support you. If you decide to divorce Josh, I do hope Jim Bob and Michelle (and of course your parents) will support you. I know divorce is non really an option growing up a Duggar/Keller, but if that will be your decision, I hope they will be there.
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:54 AM
Anna, my heart aches for you as I'm going through this right now, too. I am a Christian woman with grown children and it does not get easier just because the children are older. I wish I could sit and talk, cry, laugh, and pray with you. Lean on the Holy Spirit, who intercedes for us when we don't know what to say. God sees the big picture and has a wonderful plan for you.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:55 AM
We are all in your corner honey. We will all continue to stand in the gap and pray for you.Dont allow the enemy to keep bringing it up. If you have forgiven him for what he has done. Mive on with him allow God to restore what he has put together.ReplyDelete
god bless you and your family
Amen! Beautiful and encouraging words! God bless you Anna! Prayers for you daily coming from Texas!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 11:58 AM
Anna, I have also been in your shoes . The pain is unbearable but God will see you through it. Listen to your heart it will tell you what you need to know. When my husband did what he did he wanted her I tried everything to save my marriage but had to walk away but he came back finally but in that time God showed me I was a survivor with three little ones who was depending on me we made it through but eventually I allowed him back into our lives but I had new ground rules he had to follow apologize to his children and apologize to me because I was not at fault I was the wife who took care of the children, the home everything he wanted but turned his back on. Now we are happy once again but if it happens again I know I am strong and a survivor. God Bless you hold your head proud you are not to be blamed for his sins God knows that you have a voice and you need to use it.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:00 PM
Anna this is good advice and as you struggle through this journey: please take some comfort in knowing that there are many praying for you. Take time to really think about what will be right for you, your children, and your future relationship with Josh. I have not had to personally experience this type of journey but have felt the pain that my daughter had to bare while going through a similar situation. Take care of yourself and I will continue to pray that God gives you the strength to cope. May God bless you all.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:03 PM
That letter was so good and had so much good advice to Anna. I am grateful there are still people out there to give good advice to Anna because I feel she needs all the support she can get.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:03 PM
Well said and written, take care Anna and family, God does love you more then you may feel right now. You are not alone and never have been. Listen only to your heart when it comes to the final decisions in your lives, but take heart that many of us have been there, done that and have come out stronger and at peace. Josh was the one who did wrong, not you, your not to blame, it is not your doing, your not responsible for his actions only he is. But, rest assured that God loves Josh also, flaws and all, just like He loves all of us. Those who cast stones tend to forget that law. May you feel our support and love for all involved.ReplyDelete
Praying for you Anna
May God be with you Anna and your children you are rely on God and supportive for you. I will pray for our God is able!ReplyDelete
A better letter couldn't have been written for Anna. I hope she knows there are many, many of us who are praying for her and who love her and support her and her children. Whatever she chooses to do, we will stand by her. Our love and prayers are with you, Anna.ReplyDelete
Beautifully said! I'm praying for you every day, Anna!ReplyDelete
Amen, beautifully writtenReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:10 PM
Anna truer words have never been written to another woman. As someone who nas been through this and is still married...hang on. What a rough road to travel but through it all God is in control and He is still carryimg you. He hasn't and won't give up on you. Please do not give up on him!ReplyDelete
There are support and healing groups out there that are Christ centered. For me it has helped more then I could have dreamed. Find one and let them help support you. Until someone has been through this they can sympathize but not empathize. You need more then sympathy right now.
I will keep you and yours in my prayers. I wish there was more I could do...
Someone who understands in Michigan
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:11 PM
Well said. We love the Duggars. You all are in our prayers. Sending strength, hugs, and the love of the Lord your way! You are never alone.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:13 PM
This is very powerful. I agree with all of it. I would only add, allow yourself to be angry with Josh. Vocalize that anger. There is power in speaking the truth about the impact of his actions. You are strong, speak up.ReplyDelete
What a beautiful letter, and such wise words-- My husband and I are praying for you, your precious children, Josh, and the whole family every day-- God will give you strength and bring you through!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:19 PM
Very well put! Anna stay strong for you and that will make you strong for your kids.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:19 PM
We are all Praying for you Anna and your Whole family. It would be a true Blessing to your Supporters if we knew you or the Duggar family read our Comments. I know this is a hard time but to know that our heart felt Love and Support is reaching you would warm our hearts even more. God Bless Duggar Family.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:23 PM
Anna, Love and God Bless and ease your Suffering.ReplyDelete
Anna, I have walked in your shoes. I was 18 when I married what I thought was the love of my life. When we divorced ( what was right for me) I had 3 children and he had been with 33 others in our 6 year marriage. He now has about 7 children that I know of. I believe that in you heart you will do what is right for you. Please don't let others make choices about your life for you. I will always support you and the DuggersReplyDelete
Beautifully put! with all of the snarky and mean people out in the world, this was a great find. i hope that anna sees it. because in the midst of other stories and comments i have seen (NOT on this site, yay!) but other places, if anna has seen them it makes it harder. this one is great - and helpful. lots of us had been through some degree of cheating. from very small to very major. it's heartbreaking and you DO feel like it's all your fault. (i am MANY years away from what happened to me, and today am very happy and remarried.) and today i know better- i know it wasn't my fault. but in the moment, it's devastating. i wanted to put my marriage back together, but he didn't. so i let it go, and now i am glad. i have a better life and someone who respects me and we respect each other. one of my dearest friends went through it and DID put her marriage back together and they're stronger than ever. so many scenarios are possible. trusting in God and your own heart are a good way to start to heal. and hugging all of those babies. because they are what it's all about: new life, new hope, and lots of love <3ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:29 PM
Definitely something women going through this situation need to hear. A few years ago our family went through a similar situation, by gods grace everything that was broken was restored. It is not about forgiveness or love or any of that, the real key to healing and restoration is a desire to honor God above all else. You don't forgive your husband because you love him, you forgive because God commands us to. Anything else is sure to fail in the end.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:29 PM
Is it true that Josiah and Marjorie ended their courtship? :( Or is it just gossip that people insist on spreading?ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:30 PM
Dana and Anna,I love you.God bless you two.ReplyDelete
- Glenna SilversSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:30 PM
Wow, wonderfully written letter. Praying for you Anna and the family; continue to lean on the LORD for His strength and peace daily. Remember you are loved by God and were made in HIS image.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:32 PM
Anna I lived through the same. Mine was nearly 20 years ago. After numerous reconciliations and meetings with our pastor our marriage didn't work out. I tried 8 years. For my spouse he could not get it right. What I feel so bad for you is the embarrassment. We lived in a small town and I think EVERYONE knew about his affairs. Probably before I did. That was humiliating. Should not have been but it was. I felt as I had failed. Looking back it was not me and I think everyone knew that. Yours is nation wide. I can NOT imagine the hurt. BUT God is good. All the time. He will bring you through it. If your marriage works out He will be with you. If josh behavior does not change you may not have a choice but to leave. As diseases are real and you don't deserve that. As well our Bible teaches us there is one valid reason for divorce and you've got it. Of course I didn't run the first time I found out. Far from it. I kept forgiving him. But in time (in my case) he would not change. At that point my health had to come first. I had to be there to raise my babies. They are 20 and 18 now. They are wonderful kids. And God made sure we had what we always needed. He sent me a wonderful NON CHEATING husband a few years later. Life has been good the last several years. Hard to believe I lived through the nightmare so long ago. God bless. He WILL see you through. Follow his guidance.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:33 PM
As a "similar fellow traveler" (married to a preacher I always trusted), I say a hearty AMEN! That's what you need to do, Anna. I want to restate, Anna it is NOT your fault!! A man like that will do what he does no matter who the woman is, nor what she does!!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:35 PM
Anna my heart goes out to you and the children who are young and probably will not take this into their teenage years however, I was you and it certainly made me a strong woman of god now I am a empty nester and not once did my children ask me regarding their father's adulterous affairs, they are adults now and he has to reap with his soul not me, so Anna I am so proud of you and your kind heart, you know what to do, take care!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:35 PM
Bless Dana for sharing this. Praying for you Anna.ReplyDelete
What a great letter!ReplyDelete
This letter is beautiful and very true. Anna, I can't imagine what you are going through but I pray that you find strength, love and courage to move on and find happiness for you. What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger. I know you have the strength to move on and be happy. Do this for you and your little ones. God will take care of Josh and that out of your hands. Remember you and your babies are #1. XoxoReplyDelete
Anna, you are a kind, sweet, intelligent, beautiful and very important daughter of God!! And admired by thousands upon thousands of people! ♥ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:37 PM
What a powerful letter, Anna I do hope you get to read it -- so much truth in it. Many of us have been through what you are going thru. May God guide you. You and those lovely children are in my prayers.ReplyDelete
Big hugs and love too you and those babies.
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:38 PM
From another fellow traveler, AMEN!!!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:42 PM
Dana's letter is written with heartfelt knowledge by someone who knows what you are going through. Find strength in her words Anna. Know your own self worth. You know who you are as a woman, undefined by society's standards. None of us know fully the hurt, anguish, and betrayal you must be feeling. Please know that you didn't cause any of it. You are a faithful, loving, giving, caring, nurturing wife and mother. No one can make decisions for you, especially in your marriage. They can offer advice and comfort, but the choice is ultimately yours. You have grown so much over the last few years, there is a muturity that wasn't there before. You have grown into your own woman, and that has made you a better wife and mother. You are strong in mind, body, and spirit, and your strength will keep growing as you need it. Lean on those around you and feed off their strength and love for you. God promised sunshine after the storm. Joy Comes in the Morning!!!!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:42 PM
A beautiful letter to Anna and prayers that things will and can work out for them and it is very hard right now and never blame yourself or the children. You are patient, kind and a wonderful mother. May God Bless you sending hugs to you and all the best to you and the children an prayers that Josh will have the help to work things out with you. Take care of yourself and the children as they are your main priority right now. Love to you and the children God Bless.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSeptember 10, 2015 at 12:43 PM
Anna- I am rejoicing in the letter that "Dana from Colorado" wrote you! Yes--you are not alone. I am also a Dana--also on the same road--much further down the path in a reconciled marriage. (only by God's Grace and depending on Him daily!). We do not know what results He will bring to you, but this trial will make you more dependent on Him. Re-read the letter "Dana from Colorado" sent you, it is beautifully written! I am so glad it was posted so the rest of us could share it!! Read it --daily or even more !! It will help your own sanity and ability to keep going each day with all the responsibilities before you. Focus on what God has already done in your heart and your dependence on Him and what you know He alone can do. Turn to Him in prayer. Some days you may wish to just crawl in a hole til it all goes away, as the hurt is so great. It will not go away. It has already changed your life and it will change you. You will grow. God is with you every step of this path and He will safely bring you to where He wants you to be. Be patient as He Works... in you, and others around you. Josh's decisions have affected so many lives. God will work in each of them through this also--one way or another. Remember YOU must only answer to God in where you stand. My prayers and my heart continue with you, Dear Sister. from Another Dana united with you.ReplyDelete
Love, prayers and encouragement sent your way. Please follow this well-written advice. I, too, am a fellow traveler. HugsReplyDelete
Thanks for leaving your comments! We answer as many of your questions as we can, but due to the number of comments we receive daily, we are unable to answer every one. Our aim is to post all points of view, but we do not post anything that is profane, insulting, derogatory, or in poor taste.


text:
Almost everyone has heard the hit single 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin. The song has a very catchy way of conveying its message of being happy to everyone. Living a happy, resilient and optimistic life is wonderful, and is also good for your health. Being happy actually protects you from the stresses of life. Stress is linked to top causes of death such as heart disease, cancer and stroke.
One of the better things ever said is – 'The only thing in life that will always remain the same is change', and in our life we have the power to make the necessary changes if we want to. Even if we find ourselves in an unbearable situation we can always find solace in the knowledge that it too would change.
To be happy is relatively easy, just decide to be a happy person. Abraham Lincoln observed that most people for most of the time can choose how happy or stressed, how relaxed or troubled, how bright or dull their outlook to be. The choice is simple really, choose to be happy.
There are several ways by which you can do this.
Being grateful is a great attitude. We have so much to be thankful for. Thank the taxi driver for bringing you home safely, thank the cook for a wonderful dinner and thank the guy who cleans your windows.
News is stressful. Get less of it. Some people just can't start their day without their daily dose of news. Try and think about it, 99% of the news we hear or read is bad news. Starting the day with bad news does not seem to be a sensible thing to do.
A religious connection is also recommended. Being part of a religious group with its singing, sacraments, chanting, prayers and meditations foster inner peace.
Manage your time. Time is invaluable and too important to waste. Time management can be viewed as a list of rules that involves scheduling, setting goals, planning, creating lists of things to do and prioritizing.
Laugh and laugh heartily every day. Heard a good joke? Tell your friends or family about it. As they also say -'Laughter is the best medicine'.
Working hard brings tremendous personal satisfaction. It gives a feeling of being competent in finishing our tasks. Accomplishments are necessary for all of us, they give us a sense of value. Work on things that you feel worthy of your time.
Run, jog, walk and do other things that your body was made for. Feel alive.
At the Beatrice Insurance Agency we are happy to have you as our client! Thank you so much for your continued business and please keep us in mind when a friend or family member is looking for an insurance quote.


text:
Two Things Challenge – Dirty and Teal
Two Things Challenge – Dirty and Teal Entry
I like to enter the Two Things Challenge each week. This week is Dirty and Teal. This is my vibrant, colorful painting of Two Things Challenge – Dirty and Teal. I am sure I have the Teal part covered!! So that leaves the Dirty … I think some of the Teal looks Dirty, that is, muddy … muddy meaning not totally clear – so I think this works!! What about you? Do you think it looks good .. or rather works for Dirty and Teal?
Do you Like This?
Do you like this? What do you see in it? I really like the swirly look – with the splash of color … Perhaps someone will enjoy this on products!! I think it could be kind of wild 🙂 Do you think this would look good on Zazzle or CafePress?
True Name for Dirty and Teal?
Is this image worth getting a true name? Got any ideas for a True Name? What do you see in this painting? How do you see it? This had been for another contest of Question and Exclaim. I have always liked this.
I hope you enjoy it!! Thank you for this challenge! Here are the entries for the other week's Pepper and Salt. Anyone can join in, and I hope you give it a try!! We would love more people playing with us!
Big Blog News
My regular readers will see that I have a new look on the blog. I think this will look a lot better but clearly I have a lot of work left to do – especially on the sidebar. I am thinking of having the back that is now light purple at the sides be black … but haven't gotten that far. I will be asking for opinions. If you have any opinions, please share them … if you want to know what has been going on for me, please read my Facebook page http://facebook.com/DianeClancy.
I hope you are all well!! Thank you and I hope you enjoy your day!! ~ Diane Clancy
Entry for Two Things Challenge
Two Things Challenge – Dirty and Teal Entry
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Blake Shelton Tells Leno He Was Glad He Got to Skip Kelly Clarkson's Wedding
Blake Shelton was the couch guest on 'The Tonight Show With Jay Leno' tonight (Nov. 20), promoting the home stretch of Season 5 of 'The Voice.' He spoke about the heated competition between coaches, and he also joked about his pal Kelly Clarkson's wedding.
Of course, the host referenced his bromance partner Adam Levine being named PEOPLE's Sexiest Man Alive for 2013. How could he not? "He's got some feminine qualities about him," Shelton said when asked if he is attracted to Levine. Those two -- such kidders.
But the country star also revealed just how thick the competition is this season, especially since he has notched three wins and his co-coaches are gunning for him.
He joked that the internal coach competition on the show is so thick that his fellow coaches have veered off the path, since they are more worried about beating him than they are about developing their artists. Zing!
Shelton also spoke about how he was supposed to officiate Clarkson's wedding to his manager, Brandon Blackstock, but that didn't happen since the couple changed their plans. He wasn't bummed, though. "I got to avoid going to a wedding," he said after Clarkson and Blackstock chose to elope. "I'd rather go to a dentist."
He did officiate his sister's nuptials, though he questioned the legality of it all!


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(HealthDay News) – Allopurinol initiators have an almost 10-fold increased risk of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) compared with nonusers, according to a study published in the April issue of Arthritis Care & Research.
Seoyoung C. Kim, MD, from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and colleagues conducted a propensity-score matched cohort study using data from five large Medicaid programs to examine the incidence rate and in-hospital mortality of hospitalization for SCARs in allopurinol initiators compared with non-allopurinol users.
During 65,625 person-years of follow-up for allopurinol initiators, the researchers found that 45 patients were hospitalized for SCARs, with a crude incidence ratio of 0.69 per 1,000 person-years. All cases occurred within 365 of initiating treatment with allopurinol and 91.1% occurred within 180 days. During the hospitalization, 26.7% of patients died. For non-allopurinol users, the crude incidence rate was 0.04 per 1,000 person-years. For allopurinol initiators vs. nonusers, the risk of SCARs was significantly increased (hazard ratio, 9.68). After adjustment for age, comorbidities, and recent diuretic use, the hazard ratio for high-dosage (>300mg/day) vs. low-dosage allopurinol was 1.3 for allopurinol users.
"Our study suggests that the risk of SCARs was 10 times as high in allopurinol initiators as compared to non-allopurinol users," the authors write. "Future studies using a large detailed clinical data set from a large prospective inception cohort of allopurinol users is needed for a better understanding of other risk factors of SCARs such as impaired renal function and concomitant medication use."
Several authors disclosed financial ties to pharmaceutical companies, including Takeda, which partially funded the study.


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Sunday, February 25, 2007
New York Times Notable Book Challenge
I did not have any intention of joining in on another challenge. I do not want to limit all of my reading this year to books on lists. I also have been striving to only choose books to read for the challenges that are already on my TBR shelves. And so, when I first heard about Caribousmom's New York Times (NYT) Most Notable Fiction Challenge, I immediately discounted the notion of joining in. I mean, I only recently came into possession of two of the books on the New York Times 100 Notable Books of 2006, and one other I have read.
Caribousmom was relentless (okay, so not really. I just want to throw the blame on someone other than myself) in her endorsement of the challenge, and when I tried to squirm out of it by asking if there was a minimum requirement (what if I only wanted to read 2 books on the list?), she immediately made it clear that it was up to me. She told me that I "can read as many or as little" as I want and that I do not have to chose the titles ahead of time. The point of the challenge is not to read as many of the books on the list as possible or even a set number, but to provide an opportunity for the challengers to discuss our experiences with the books we do read. A forum was set up for that very purpose, in fact.
My firm resolve to not get tangled up in any more challenges faltered and collapsed. Are you really surprised? As a consolation, I am going to allow myself a lot of freedom with the NYT Challenge. I will not be setting a number of books to read from the list. I have jotted down a few titles that appeal to me, and my choices will come from that list (subject to change based on other books that catch my fancy or recommendations by others).
Without further ado . . .
Forgetfulness by Ward Just (read 12/2006)
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
One Good Turn by Kate Atkinson
The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai
Beasts of No Nation by Uzodinma Iweala
The Inhabited World by David Long (read 06/2007)
Gate of the Sun by Elias Khoury
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky
Absurditan by Gary Shteyngart
Eat the Document by Dana Spiotta
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
7 comments:
LOL - I love that sign ;-) I need to make that the wallpaper on my computer. Good luck - you've got some gret choices listed. I'm kind of maxed out on challenges myself right now.ReplyDelete
Woo Hoo! So glad you are joining us. I have several of the same choices. I'm looking forward to chatting about them. Happy Reading!ReplyDelete
Sounds like fun. Look forward to hearing all about it.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousMonday, February 26, 2007 2:22:00 PM
Another reading challenge?! Unfortuantely I've done so bad with all of my challenges. Sigh. Although I do like the idea of not chosing the books ahead of time. I think that's my problem. I choose books according to my mood so just because they are next on my list of doesn't mean that they'll be picked up. Good luck with your challenge!ReplyDelete
Soooo tempting. I've seen this challenged mentioned on a couple of blogs. I hate that I'm ultimately worthless reading-wise until my thesis is done. :(ReplyDelete
- AnonymousMonday, February 26, 2007 5:38:00 PM
I haven't read any of those books but a few are on my wishlist. Good luck!ReplyDelete
Thank you all for the good luck wishes! I purposefully left it open so that I won't strain myself and take the fun out of it. :-)ReplyDelete
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Improve the light and style of your car's interior with Philips' new X-tremeUltinon LED bulbs. Long-lasting design, eye-friendly daylight effect.
Why buy Philips X-treme Ultinon LED C5W 43mm 6000K (Single)?
If you're looking to improve both the lighting and style of your vehicle's interior, try Philips' new X-treme Ultinon LED bulbs. Unlike some technologically inferior LED bulbs that are on the market these days, Philips X-treme Ultinon LED bulbs produce a brilliant, natural-feeling and uniformly diffused light, so you can enjoy a heightened illumination that doesn't damage or tire your eyes. What's more, X-treme Ultinon bulbs offer an extremely durable bulb that can withstand high temperatures as well as vibrational damage as a result of a technologically innovative casing, achieving a remarkably long life of up to 12 years.
Made to the highest quality of Philips Automotive-Grade Quality standards, the new X-treme Ultinon bulbs offer the very best in lighting design, guaranteeing you an easy installation and a powerful, precise light beam performance. Give your vehicle some extra comfort, some extra style and some extra light – for years to come.
(The usage of these bulbs in an exterior application is not road-legal and, in addition, may trigger a bulb error message to appear on the vehicle's on-board computer system / dashboard. This is a harmless side-effect owing to the difference between halogen and LED technology. Any such warning errors may be removed with the additional installation of a CANbus control unit.)
Features and benefits
- 6000K LED lighting
- Vastly improves interior lighting
- Daylight effect
- Sensitive to eyes
- Exceptional style
- Durable LED design for extremely long life up to 12 years
- Innovative casing prevents heat and vibrational damage
- Built to Philips Automotive-Grade Quality high production standards
- Not road legal – off-road applications only
About Philips
For over a century, Philips have been literally making the world a brighter place. Through using ever-advancing technology and adhering to the most rigorous and superlative of production standards, it isn't hard to see why one in every three cars worldwide come equipped with Philips lamps. A purchase from Philips not only offers best-in-class technology, but peace of mind.
It is your own responsibility to ensure that the use of the LED retrofit lights complies with applicable local legal requirements.


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By ROB GILLIES
Associated Press
TORONTO (AP) — Toronto Mayor Rob Ford will take a leave of absence to seek help for alcohol, he said, as a report surfaced about a second video of the mayor smoking what appears to be crack cocaine.
Ford, who is seeking re-election in the Oct. 27 vote, said Wednesday he will take an immediate leave from his job and his campaign.
"I have a problem with alcohol, and the choices I have made while under the influence. I have struggled with this for some time," Ford said in statement late Wednesday.
The Globe and Mail newspaper said it has viewed a second video of Ford smoking what appears to be crack cocaine in his sister's basement. The national newspaper said two Globe reporters viewed the video from a self-professed drug dealer showing Ford taking a drag from a pipe early Saturday morning.
The video is part "of a package of three videos the dealer said was surreptitiously filmed around 1:15 a.m., and which he says he is now selling for `at least six figures,"' the paper reported.
News reports of the existence of an earlier video of Ford apparently smoking crack first surfaced last May, igniting a media firestorm around Ford.
Ford's lawyer, Dennis Morris, said he spoke to Ford earlier Wednesday and said Ford has accepted that he has a problem.
"He acknowledges he has a substance abuse problem and he wants to do something about it," Morris told The Associated Press.
Ford, who launched his campaign for re-election earlier this year, acknowledged last year after months of denials that he smoked crack in a "drunken stupor" after police said they obtained a video that appears to show him smoking crack. The video has never been released to the public.
Ford has careened from one scandal to another, becoming a national embarrassment for many Canadians.
Also on Wednesday, The Toronto Sun said that it had obtained an audio recording of Ford making offensive remarks about other politicians at a bar on Monday night.
Ford has refused to resign, despite mounting pressure after a string of incidents, from public drunkenness to an appearance in another video that showed him threatening "murder" in an incoherent rant. Toronto's city council has stripped him of most of his powers.
Ford said last year that he quit drinking alcohol after having a "come to Jesus moment" but later acknowledged that he drank again. A number of recordings of the mayor intoxicated have surfaced since.
Ford acknowledged "rocky moments over the past year" during his official campaign launch earlier this month but vowed to fight harder than ever to win re-election.
Ford, who was the first to register as a candidate in January, invoked the spirit of second chances during a speech in front of supporters.
A message left with Ford's chief of staff was not returned. Ford's lawyer, Morris, did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment on the reports that emerged Wednesday night.
John Tory, who is running against Ford in the election, said he's relieved that Ford is seeking help but said "for the good of the city" he should resign.
Late night comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who has repeatedly poked fun at Ford and hosted him on his show, tweeted that he was concerned about Ford. "All jokes aside, I hope(at)TOMayorFord áreally does get the help he obviously needs," Kimmel tweeted.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text: Email Story Print Story National Jewish Health to Host 35th Annual Pulmonary & Allergy Update NOVEMBER 29, 2012 DENVER — The 35th Annual National Jewish Health Pulmonary & Allergy Update, February 6-9, 2013, provides allergists, pulmonologists and general practitioners the opportunity to learn the latest information on management and treatment options for allergic, respiratory and immune diseases. The program, co-chaired by National Jewish professors Harold Nelson, MD, Erwin Gelfand, MD, and Richard Martin, MD, highlights insights and recent advances, while offering opportunities to network with colleagues and nationally recognized experts. "For 35 years medical professionals have used what they've learned at this conference to improve care of their patients who suffer from chronic diseases," said Dr. Nelson. "This conference provides tremendous opportunity to learn from some of the best teachers in the nation." The four-day conference features lectures and case-based workshops with pulmonary and allergy/immunology focuses. This year pulmonary topics include the role of infection in asthma, diagnosis and management of refractory asthma, steroid insensitivity, preventability of asthma and the role of gastroesophageal reflux in asthma. The allergy/immunology topics cover drug allergies, allergy to metal and cement in joint replacements, food allergy, the impact of global warming on allergies, and non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections. All participants will observe presentations and participate in case-study discussions with National Jewish Health faculty. Attendees can earn 14.5 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditsTM or 15 CE nursing contact hours. National Jewish Health is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians, and is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing to provide continuing nursing education. National Jewish Health is the only medical and research center in the United States devoted to respiratory, immune, cardiac and related diseases, including asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, severe allergies and autoimmune diseases, such as lupus. It has been rated the #1 respiratory hospital in the nation for 15 straight years by U.S. News & World Report. For more information or to register for the conference please contact Mandy Comeau at 303.728.6585 or email@example.com. The Keystone Conference Center is 90 miles west of Denver with a wide range of activities and services designed for the entire family. Media Resources We have many faculty members, from bench scientists to clinicians, who can speak on almost any aspect of respiratory, immune, cardiac and gastrointestinal disease as well as lung cancer and basic immunology. Accomplishments & Awards Annual Report Financials Media Contacts Our team is available to arrange interviews, discuss events and story ideas. Adam Dormuth 303.398.1002 office 970.222.5034 mobile firstname.lastname@example.com Jessica Berry 303.398.1082 office 303.807.9491 mobile firstname.lastname@example.com


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In 2008, world GDP will surpass $53 trillion. Capital, labor, and ideas now circle the globe at the speed of light. Financial markets and supply-lines are more integrated than ever. Some three billion people are connecting to the modern economy for the first time. New players are creating new ideas and new enterprises in new places. The Progress & Freedom Foundation's Center for Global Innovation will work to advocate openness, innovation, and dynamism in the global digital economy. This means free trade, stable monetary policy, limited international regulation, smart immigration policy, and protection of intellectual property. It also means enlightened education and tax policies at home. The Center's goal is to offer new research and more effective arguments to explain the broad benefits of American technology and globalization to the public. The Center will also educate policymakers on specific policies that will expand (or damage) American prosperity in this new era.
Globalization brings large benefits to poor and rich alike. But it also brings big new challenges. Globalization, for example, not only empowers companies and consumers, it also empowers governments to reach across the world and touch firms previously outside their jurisdiction. New monetary arrangements lead to charges of "currency manipulation," proposed tariffs, and the threat of a trade war. The intangible nature of intellectual property adds a new layer of complexity to global governance. Rising global wealth leads many to warn of impending energy shortages, zero-sum oil wars, and global warming. As the gap between the world's rich and poor shrinks, may assert that rising inequity in the U.S. is leaving millions of Americans behind. With so many large changes coming so fast, populist sentiment is on the rise. Many urge the closing of borders to people, capital, and trade.
Without precedent, America in the coming decades will face the prospect of large capitalist nations challenging its longstanding economic and technological hegemony. After a century as the world's dominant and unrivaled economy, can America even begin to imagine, let alone grasp, its new place in the world? Will we retreat from the global economy? Or will we confidently exploit the opportunities of a freer world and find ways to protect commerce and prosperity? The Center for Global Innovation will explore the policy implications of these issues and will work to promote sensible, market oriented solutions. Find out more about the Center for Global Innovation at www.pff.org/cgi.
See press release on the launch of the Center for Global Innovation.


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What to make of Burial at Sea? Planned as a two-part episodic expansion for BioShock Infinite, it takes us back to where the series began: The majestic underwater city of Rapture. One part BioShock nostalgia trip and one part extraneous BioShock Infinite epilogue, Burial at Sea's first episode falls unfortunately short of both its predecessors.
Heads-up: To write about Burial at Sea, I'm going to have to drop some SPOILERS for the ending of BioShock Infinite. Though really, the new story wouldn't make sense if you hadn't finished the main game, so if you're considering playing it, go finish Infinite first.
Burial at Sea, which comes out tomorrow for PC, Xbox 360 and PS3, begins in Booker DeWitt's familiar, darkened office. Naturally, someone's banging on the door. Ah, but this Booker DeWitt exists decades in the future from his past self, far removed from the man who adventured through the floating city of Columbia in 1912. This Booker DeWitt is a 1950s private investigator in the city of Rapture, and this Elizabeth, now older and considerably more va va voom, plays the femme fatale. She hires Booker to help her find a missing girl, and the game is quickly afoot.
The three-or-so-hour episode is structured like an extremely condensed version of BioShock Infinite. There's the brightly lit, beautiful introduction, in which you tour a fantastical setting with a barely-hidden dark side. There's the eruption of violence, after which you shloot through a series of colorfully lit rooms while brutally murdering a collection of copy-paste enemies. And there are the story revelations that take place throughout, escalating all the way up to the end.
The first act consists of a lavish (and, let's be real here, self-indulgent) tour through a Rapture commercial district. This is Rapture of 1958, a few years before the brutal civil war that left the place in the state of disrepair series fans have come to know and love. This Rapture is shiny and brightly lit; benign sea-life drifts past the towering windows as carefree people mill about. There's jazz music playing, and nary a leaking porthole or blood-soaked surgical table to be found.
The first chapter, which has Elizabeth leading Booker around a shopping mall in an attempt to sneak into a party hosted by BioShock 1 scene-stealer Sander Cohen, is easily the most memorable part of Burial at Sea. It plays like exuberant fan service: At first glance, pre-fall Rapture is a lovely looking place.
Unfortunately, the more time I spent there the clearer it became that this spit-shined Rapture might've been better left to our imaginations. The city has always had a cartoonish, larger-than-life quality, but in past BioShock games, we only gradually came to understand it by picking through its wreckage. The bleak archeology of the first two games gave Rapture a lost, mythic quality that supported its less-than-believable aspects while underlining its rotten core. The broken bits and pieces the designers left lying around formed the skeleton of what Rapture had been, and our imaginations filled in the rest.
The Rapture of Burial at Sea is less convincing than all that, and frequently falls victim to the same Disneyland-like automated quality Infinite did. As you stroll about, taking in the sights, Rapture's glassy-eyed citizens mostly just stand there, moving in a loop and trading snippets of blithe exposition and political chatter. You'll see a Big Daddy—remember those? How cool!—doing Big Daddy-ish things, and an onlooker will remark on how odd those metal monsters are. You'll find eight Little Sisters standing in a row, creepy as ever. You'll see all the same propaganda, hear the same philosophical talk, and detect the same signs of underlying strife and social unease.
Witnessed up close in real time, this Rapture feels like a caricature. It's been hastily drawn, and the grandiose antagonists who gave the first two games such substance and character are in short supply. At one point I explored a bookstore that contained only three categories of books: "Self-Optimization," "Empiricism" and "Parasitism." Really? Who on earth would live in this place? I'll grant that it's unlikely that any official recreation of Rapture could live up to the version I've always imagined. (And hey, this does appear to be an alt-universe variant of the city, what with the new technology, vigors and the presence of both Booker and Elizabeth.) All the same, watching this magnificent, storied place come creakily to life left me feeling a bit sad. Oh, I guess that's what Rapture looked like. Huh.
Oh, I guess that's what Rapture looked like. Huh.
The opening chapter has no combat, and is better for it. At one point, Booker and Elizabeth must find an item that will help them sneak into Cohen's party. It's a classic adventure game setup—Elizabeth winds up distracting shopkeepers while Booker roots around in back rooms looking for the item they need. Unfortunately, the design of the whole thing is paper-thin, and mostly serves to emphasize the fact that BioShock Infinite was designed to be a first-person shooter and little else. There's no way to sneak, no way to chat or deceive, and no inventory to speak of. On the surface, the sequence is precisely the kind of thing I wanted more of in Infinite, but while I applaud Burial at Sea's designers for attempting to give us something beyond shoot-loot-shoot-shloot, the opening chapter is mostly a tease for a game that Infinite's trigger-happy underpinnings can't support.
Those interesting combat-free moments stand in welcome contrast to the shooting that comes later. After an unceremonious act-break, Booker and Elizabeth find themselves in a separate location that is, conveniently, more or less the wrecked, splicer-infested Rapture of the first two games. Suddenly everyone is an enemy, and the game devolves almost immediately into the sort of shouty, spammy killfests that I so disliked in the main game.
I say almost entirely because in this chapter, too, we're given a hint of what might have been. A very (very) light bit of sneaking has been added to the mix, and careful players can crouch and creep up behind unaware splicers before taking them down silently with a single blow. It's another interesting idea that, like the earlier adventure-game elements, the core game can't really support. Most encounters turn into a full-on fracas with a quickness, and the enemies' artificial intelligence is nowhere near smart or consistent enough to make for an enjoyable stealth game.
Most of the combat is standard fare for the series: Enter a new room, run around, shoot some guys, use plasmids (which are mostly just recycled vigors from Infinite), run out of ammunition, hope that Elizabeth throws you more ammunition, run out of ammunition again. It's always chaotic and rarely satisfying.
It's difficult to evaluate Burial at Sea's story, given that it's the first half of a two-part tale and, more than most first chapters, appears to exist entirely to set up its ending and move us on to the second episode. Developer Irrational Games has already revealed that in episode two, players will control Elizabeth, not Booker. With that in mind, the first episode feels even more tired—tell me again why couldn't we have just played as Elizabeth from the outset?
I was expecting Burial at Sea to take advantage of the multiverse of twists that came at the end of Infinite, to embrace that blank metaphysical slate and tell a standalone story. Instead, although Burial takes place in a slightly warped version of BioShock 1's setting, its story relies heavily on the events of Infinite.
Burial at Sea's first episode doesn't ask any new questions, nor does it meaningfully expound upon the answers provided at the end of Infinite.
I'll hold off final judgement until I've played the second part, though for now I'm not sure about the decision to engage Infinite so directly. Infinite's ending was a double-edged narrative sword—it cut sharply and with admirable boldness, but it also severed its connection to all that preceded it. With an ending like that, what's left to say?
Burial at Sea's first episode doesn't ask any new questions, nor does it meaningfully expound upon the answers provided at the end of Infinite. Its attempts to provide fan service wind up dispelling a chunk of Rapture's mystique, and its adherence to the ouroborian twists of Infinite's lore render its story largely meaningless. It doesn't (yet) approach the series' established canon from a different angle, or present us with a surprising new perspective a la BioShock 2's fantastic expansion Minerva's Den. Instead, Burial at Sea's debut mashes Andrew Ryan's BioShock together with Father Comstock's BioShock Infinite and proceeds to bite off more than it can chew.
I'm interested to see how it'll all play out, though my expectations for the conclusion have been dampened by the introduction. Still, I'll gladly wait for Elizabeth to take center stage. I hope her star-turn doesn't arrive one act too late.
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