The Vampire Diaries: BFFS to boyfriend and girlfriend?

"It's a TV tale as old as time: the BF and the BFF" (eonline). Caroline Forbes and Stefan Salavatore have had a developing friendship since the middle of season two. It has become a sacred bond, and the two have been inseparable as of late. Both being kind and compassionate individuals, TVD fans view this pairing as a match made in heaven. Will "Stereoline" turn into more than BFFS? Only time will tell. Executive producer Julie Plec commented, "I don't want to speculate about where they end up, but I do think what has happened is a very strong friendship has developed between them, that's been really special, and will continue to grow even more special, As for what each of them feels for the other, who knows? Right now, we're in the friend zone." Screen writer, Caroline Ries, made it clear that if anything were to ever happen, it would be done properly and at the right time. "If we do it, I will say this, it will feel earned and organic. We will slowly play it, it's not just going to be this random thing that we waste and ruin it. We're very careful about that." Paul Wesley, AKA Stefan Salvatore, admits, that he thought the coupling would have happened by now, but he is also satisfied with the friendship and and off the screen. 
The Vampire diaries airs TONIGHT at 7:00 p.m. Central. Personally, I would love to see this potential romance come to fruition. All that's left to do is wait and see! 

Global Flood vs. Regional Flood

Henry Morris, Ph. D. portrays an aspect of the Noah's Ark flood argument that is quite literal. The title of his article is 'Why Christians Should Believe in a Global Flood'. He describes the 'subtle persecution' that modern creationists undergo due to their verbatim interpretations of Scripture. He stated that it would be a simpler affair if these people refuted their beliefs, but encouraged the refusal to do so. Morris provided a list of one-hundred reasons as to why it is vital for Christians to hold fast to the thought of a global flood. This is a positive aspect to his argument; he gives valid explanations to why he believes what he believes. A con to this would be the fact that the author appears a bit close-minded. As seen from the title, he seems to be set on the thought that Christians who don't believe in an international flood are not 'true believers'.

In the second article, written on biologos.com, the narrator seems to obtain a polar opposite perspective. He or she believes that the flood was regional, and it did not extinguish the human race. The author states that the 'global flood' interpretation of Genesis 6-9 is not supported by scientific and archaeological evidence. He expounds on his opinion through the description of location, geology, and contrasting flood tales. He, also, provides bona fide details to his reasoning. On the down side, he is a bit vague in his descriptions.

Both men are exceedingly educated and well spoken. So, what does this mean for Christians? What should we believe?

Here is my question; Why does it matter? Honestly, the argument regarding a regional or global flood seems a bit irrelevant to me. I do not intend to sound ignorant or as if biblical history is an unimportant concept to me. Despite this, the disagreement shouldn't exist between evolutionists and creationists, or collective groups. It is the individual's perception. There is no proper formula to correctly interpreting a passage of scripture. Everyone believes that they are correct in their understanding. Who is a human to say that they fully comprehend the way of God and the opposing person does not? Neither of the authors of these articles were particularly humble. As I was reading, I asked myself the question "How is God being glorified through this?". I believe that His intention for Christians was to reflect the love, knowledge, and joy that is Him. The predominant goal should not be achieving all of the 'right answers' to theological questions. Our minds are a wonderful tool, and I still believe that they should be used to explore Scripture and form foundational beliefs. For myself, I have been raised with the theology of a global flood. I have yet to study the subject independent from church or Bible study, so I am unable to delegate a definite opinion regarding the matter. I believe that the debate is somewhat insignificant when compared with the grand scheme of things.  

Plagiarism: What is there to say?

1. How would you respond if you were convicted of plagiarism?
If I were guilty of the act, I would confess and try to handle to impending consequences with grace. I'm very aware of the fact that plagiarism is morally unethical, so I would be ashamed of my behavior. My parents would be incredibly disappointed, and that more than anything would probably affect the way I act in this hypothetical situation. If I were being falsely accused of plagiarism, I would try to piece together all of the proof that is available to me. That's essentially all you can do in that type of situation. You can't defend an act that was never performed.

2. How would your parents respond?
I think that they would be shocked. Both my mom and my dad hold my siblings and I to a high standard of morality for ourselves and how we treat others. They constantly emphasize the importance of hard work, honesty, and authenticity. They would be incredibly disappointed, and then explain to me why it is wrong. If you cheat, you are not only hurting other people, but ultimately yourself.

3. Do you feel as if you deserve a passing grade because your parents pay tuition?
Absolutely not. No one is entitled to success if he or she did not earn it. Private school education is intended to make the student work harder and think critically. This is only achieved if the curriculum molds around that goal. How is one supposed to learn how to work if what he or she yearns for is simply given? We are here not only to excel academically, but also as individuals with strong work ethics.

4. Does this story affect your view of plagiarism?
I've never viewed plagiarism as a justifiable act. Despite this, I think the reaction of the people within the town was a bit melodramatic. For example, when the company manager requested the list of names regarding the students accused of cheating: It was no concern of his. The matter is between that individual, the school administration, and his/her parents. Everyone has made a mistake at one point or another, and it is forgivable even if it is not justifiable.

5. What do you take away from this narrative?
No one has a right to take credit for someone else's work. It does not help grow you in any aspect of your life, but instead magnifies laziness. Be kind and authentic. Try your best. 

A Royal Redhead & a Beautiful Blonde

Everyone loves a fairy tale story, regardless of how modern or dated the content of it appears to be. Prince Harry of England is one of the most eligible bachelors internationally. Despite this, it seems that the icon has recently had his heart stolen by Duke of Devonshire, Cressida Bonas. Could we have a potential princess on our hands? By the looks of it, the chances are likely. A source informed E! news that the duchess has been bonding with Queen Elizabeth and Princess Kate. It is also evident that the part-time actress obtains the social graces of royalty, but is also "endearingly awkward". These are unique qualities when compared to Harry's past few flames. The couple decided to announce their relationship to the public as of last Friday. The handsome Prince Harry was accompanied by the socialite to the We Day in U.K. political conference. This event marked a rite of passage for the pair, in a sense. It was Cressy's initial debut at an official happening delegated by the prince. Talk about a royal affair! The twenty nine year old duke gave a speech addressing 12,000 students at the introductory charity event benefiting the relief company, Free the Children. This organization's objective is to see the end of youth trafficking and international poverty. The two kept a low-key look and expressed their support through donations and attracting publicity. It was reported that Prince Harry had dinner with the duchess & her brother-in-law, Sam Branson, at The Ivy approximately a month ago. It seems that the two are getting well acquainted with one another's families. Could this be a long haul commitment for the royal redhead & the beautiful blond? We shall see; let the ring watch commence!  
http://www.eonline.com/news/518695/prince-harry-joined-by-cressida-bonas-at-first-official-royal-function-see-the-pics
http://www.eonline.com/news/467849/prince-harry-ready-to-marry-cressida-bonas-10-things-you-didn-t-know-about-the-potential-princes

Adam Brody & Leighton Meester tied the knot!

The OC star & Gossip Girl actor finally jumped the broom! When asked if he & Meester had married, Adam Brody replied with a curt 'yes'. He showed off his wedding ring as he was shopping for groceries on the outskirts of Los Angeles. The 34 year old was flying solo from his 27 year old wife while canvassing the area. She has been rehearsing for the much anticipated revival of the play "Of Mice and Men", co-starring alongside James Franco and Chris O'Dowd. He appeared calm and happy while sporting his red tracksuit and jeans. The couple exchanged vows only three months after the news of their engagement was revealed. This is exciting for the fans due to the fact that the news of their romance only made news last February!

Creationism vs. Evolution: What matters?

The evolution versus creation debate has often been portrayed as a battle between deceit and truth. Each side believes they have the answer to how we landed here on Earth. I do trust in the book of Genesis and what it tells us about Creation. Whether this is literal or figurative, I don't know. The thing is, none of us were present the day God began creating us, the Earth, space, water, and anything else within existence. It is simply there. We can use all of the scientific or liturgical sources available to us to figure it out, but I don't believe that should be the foundation of our faith. God did not design all things for us to be able to figure them out. He is a mystery. I don't believe that He intended creation to be a topic that we are able to decipher. The essential fact that we should understand and trust in regarding Creation is that God spoke, and it was. We are not here by random order or coincidence, but for His specific purpose. It is not our obligation to know how this happened. I do not believe that God's goal for us as His creation was to achieve the correct doctrine or interpretation of particular passages. So why is the argument genuinely relevant? For me, the idea of evolution takes away from the sacred way that God created us. He intended for us to be His most prized possession, and we are. Humans have souls and long for purpose. Though we may have similar physical characteristics to that of apes, we are not animals. We are spiritual beings that God designed individually in a distinct manner. That should be the foundation of our faith; to be in an intimate union with God. The Creation, and the Creator. The way this happened is irrelevant. The vital thing is that it did happen.

The Fault in Our Stars

"Literature is my Utopia. Here I am not disfranchised. No barrier of the senses shuts me out from the sweet, gracious discourse of my book-friends. They talk to me without embarrassment or awkwardness." -Helen Keller. Reading is used for all types of intents and purposes; education, entertainment, symbolism, and profound life lessons. Through literature, I have discovered all of these things. A few of my favorites are Pride & Prejudice, The Mortal Instruments, and The Infernal Devices. The most recent book I have read is named The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. It is about two unconventional teenagers by the names of Hazel Grace & Augustus Waters who have both battled cancer for an exceeding amount of time. The two fall in love, and learn how to support one another through joyful and trying times. Along the way, each of them find out a thing or two about themselves as well. The meaning of life is a consistent question throughout the novel. At the beginning of the book, Augustus is asked what he fears the most. His reply is "oblivion". As his character transitions, Augustus realizes that we find meaning through our relationships with one another. "I  believe humans have souls, and I believe in the conservation of souls. The oblivion fear is something else, fear that I won't be able to give anything in exchange for my life. If you don't live a life of service for the greater good, you've gotta at least die a death in service of the greater good, you know?" Hazel has more of a pessimistic outlook. She trusts in the idea that life has no meaning to it other than enjoying it while you  are here. This changes when her disease grows worse, and she begins to love in a way that she once thought was useless. Both of the characters have an appreciation for life that many take for granted. The thing about books is that they can enter into the mind of a reader and make them think. Make them question life, the meaning of it, the relationships they have with others, how we treat one another, the things we take for granted or should appreciate more, etc. We are able to open our minds and explore ourselves through literature. In this book in particular, I learned to appreciate every moment you are given and to look for the best in each experience. Always treat someone with kindness because you never know what they may be enduring. In this way, life reflects art. We can identify ourselves in a story or in a character, and that is the wonderful thing about reading. Not only is it an escape from reality, but you also learn more about yourself along the way. 

Are our favorite Gossip Girls no more?

Gossip Girl is an exceedingly prevalent television show. The primary target audience is teenage girls, and it is
quite addictive! With tales of love and betrayal (and of course, GOSSIP!) entailed in every scene, this show
is a brilliant and witty escape into the upper east side preparatory high schools of New York City. The two
main characters are best friends Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen, portrayed by Leighton
Meester and Blake Lively respectively. It has been rumored that after seven years of working together, the
two have gone their separate ways. Now, this definitely the first precedent to be set for any real life Blairena
drama. The idea is essentially unheard of! The two have always been so cordial to one another, and we love
their friendship on and off screen. Could life be reflecting art in this instance? An inside source has reported
 that Blake Lively did not congratulate Leighton on her engagement to Adam Brody.  Can you believe it?!
The source continued, “After something of a thaw in their relationship during the final two seasons of 
Gossip Girl, Leighton and Blake don’t speak anymore. I think it’s simply a matter of both of them being

happy not to have to spend 18 hours a day with each other, but the friendship they struggled to build

 at the end of Gossip Girl has evaporated and they continue to stay as far away from each other as

 possible." Think back to season 4. Blair was engaged to Prince Louis, and Serena refused to even 

acknowledge this as a solid fact. What is going on with these two? The two talents have been quite

 busy as of late, so let us hope that it is only a matter of schedule as opposed to genuine attempts of

avoidance! Besides, Lively has always been the type of girl to treat her friends and co-workers very

 well. Let's hope our two "it girls" are still starlets who remain best friends instead of viewing each 

other as rivals. 

Top 5 Fashion Risks of the Now--Vogue

Fashion has consistently been a form of expression for the individual. Your style reflects who you are as a person. Whether you are more laid back with a comfy collection of sportswear, trendy with the most popular handbags and shoes, or provocative with Prada. On January 6, 2014 Vogue introduced the top 5 fashion risks to conquer this new year as seen during Paris Fashion Week. The list commences with the "Cold Shoulder", which is bringing the '80's back to present day with a force! Number 2 was labelled as "Suit Up". Whether you are going to a job interview or attending a gala, this outfit is striking for all formal events! #3--Think Pink, this look is exceedingly exquisite and girly. Very sweet. Number 4--Half Time! Look elegant and effortless! Match your long skirt with a crop top, and you have the perfect evening wear look. To top off the list, we have number five as "It's All White". White after Labor Day has actually become a very popular trend in today's time. Risk taking is all the rage.