Resilience

Resilience in the Bible: Finding Strength Through Faith

In essence, biblical resilience is not simply bouncing back, but growing through trials. It's a journey of faith, relying on God's strength, finding hope in perseverance, and drawing support from a community of believers.

A Theological Look at Resilience

Hope and Perseverance:

The idea of perseverance is central to many teachings. Verses like James 1:2-4 encourage finding joy in facing challenges, knowing they can lead to spiritual maturity. Hope for a better future, grounded in faith, fuels resilience.

Examples of Resilience:

The Bible offers numerous examples of resilient figures. From overcoming slavery in Exodus to figures like David facing persecution, these stories showcase the power of faith and determination in overcoming adversity.

Community and Support:

The concept of Christian fellowship is another key factor. Verses like Hebrews 12:1 emphasize the importance of a supportive community, a "cloud of witnesses" who inspire and encourage resilience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Theological resilience often goes beyond earthly concerns. Passages like 2 Corinthians 12:10 suggest that through suffering, one can find a deeper connection with God. Resilience becomes about holding onto faith even when facing worldly hardship.

1. Isaiah 40:29 - "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength."
2. Proverbs 24:16 - "For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall by iniquity."
3. Romans 5:3-4 - "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope:"
4. James 1:2-4 - "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."
5. 2 Corinthians 12:10 - "Therefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
6. Psalm 27:1 - "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
7. Joshua 1:9 - "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."
8. Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Resilience, from a psychological perspective, is not simply bouncing back from hardship. It's a complex process of adapting and thriving in the face of adversity. Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:

Internal Factors:

• Cognitive Factors:
  • Optimism and Positive Reframing: Resilient people tend to have a generally positive outlook and the ability to reframe negative situations into opportunities for growth. https://positivepsychology.com/resilience-theory/
  • Self-Efficacy: This is the belief in one's ability to cope with challenges and achieve goals. It empowers individuals to take control and navigate difficulties.
• Emotional Factors:
  • Emotional Regulation: Resilient people can manage strong emotions effectively, preventing them from becoming overwhelming and hindering their ability to cope.

Materials:

• Cover: Basketballs are typically made of rubber or composite materials. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand the wear and tear of being dribbled, passed, and shot. They should also maintain good grip for players.
• Carcass: The inner carcass of a basketball is usually made from nylon or similar materials. These materials need to be strong enough to hold the inflated air shape and endure impacts without breaking.

Durability for Different Playing Conditions:

• Indoor vs Outdoor: Basketballs for outdoor use often have a thicker, more durable cover to resist abrasion from rough surfaces like asphalt. Indoor basketballs may prioritize grip and feel over extreme durability.

So, while a basketball doesn't possess physical resilience in the same way a person does, the materials and construction choices are made to create a durable product that can withstand the rigors of the game.

 1. Inner Core:

• Material: The core, typically made of high-energy rubber or a synthetic material, needs resilience to compress significantly upon impact with the club.
• Function: This compression stores energy, which is then released explosively as the ball rebounds, propelling it further. Without resilience, the core wouldn't compress effectively, leading to a weak shot.

2. Mantle:

• Material: The mantle, often made of ionomer resin or Surlyn, is a softer layer surrounding the core.
• Function: Its resilience allows it to deform slightly at impact, transferring energy efficiently from the core to the outer cover. Without a resilient mantle, energy could be lost, reducing distance.

3. Outer Cover:

• Material: The cover, typically made of durable materials like urethane or Balata, is the thinnest layer.
• Function: Its resilience needs to be balanced. It should be firm enough to maintain good shape at impact for distance control, but also resilient enough to grip the clubface for spin generation (important for trajectory and control). Without a resilient cover, the ball might scuff easily or not generate enough spin.

Overall Benefits of Resilience:

• Distance: By storing and transferring energy efficiently, resilience translates to longer drives.
• Durability: A resilient golf ball can withstand the punishment of repeated impacts without cracking or losing performance. trajectory and control over the ball's flight.

In Conclusion:

Resilience is a key property in each layer of a golf ball, working together to maximize distance, durability, and spin control. It ensures the ball maintains its integrity and performs well throughout its journey after being struck.

 Joshua 1:9

"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."

 

Hebrews 12:1-2 - "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."

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Here's a breakdown of Hebrews 12:1-2:

Verse 1:

• "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses..."

  • This refers to the countless faithful people who have come before us. They are like witnesses cheering us on in our own race of faith.

• "Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us..."

  • This is a call to remove anything that hinders our spiritual progress. "Weights" can be burdens, distractions, or negative attitudes. The "sin which doth so easily beset us" refers to specific sins that we tend to fall into repeatedly.

Verse 2:

• "And let us run with patience the race that is set before us..."

  • The Christian life is compared to a race, one that requires perseverance and endurance.

• "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."

  • We are encouraged to focus on Jesus Christ as our ultimate example. He is the "author" (pioneer) and "finisher" (perfecter) of our faith. Despite facing immense suffering (the cross), Jesus remained focused on the joy that awaited him (salvation, being with God).

In essence, this passage is a call to:

• Find encouragement from those who have walked the faith journey before us.
• Identify and remove obstacles that hinder our spiritual growth.
• Persevere in our faith journey, looking to Jesus as our source of strength and inspiration.

Installing a wifi extender can be a breeze!

 

Installing a wifi extender can be a breeze! Here's a general guide to get you started:

Preparation:

1. Find your router manual and extender manual: Having both on hand will be helpful during the setup process [1].
2. Locate your Wi-Fi dead zones: Identify areas in your house where the Wi-Fi signal is weak or nonexistent. This will help you determine the optimal placement for the extender later [1].

Setting Up the Extender:

There are two main methods for setting up a Wi-Fi extender:

• Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS): This is a quicker method if both your router and extender support WPS. The manuals will guide you through a button press sequence to establish the connection [1, 2].
• Web Interface Setup: This method involves connecting a device like a laptop to the extender's temporary Wi-Fi network (SSID) and then using a web browser to access the extender's setup interface. The interface will typically prompt you to enter your main router's Wi-Fi network credentials (SSID and password) [1].

Positioning the Extender:

• Initial Placement: For initial setup, it's recommended to plug the extender into an outlet close to your router. This ensures a strong connection for configuration [3].
• Optimal Placement: Once configured, consult the extender's manual for placement recommendations. Ideally, the extender should be positioned halfway between your router and the area with the weak Wi-Fi signal. Avoid placing it too close to your router or obstructions like walls or metal objects [1, 3]. Some extenders have signal strength LED indicators to help you find the sweet spot.

Connecting Your Devices:

• Your devices like laptops or phones can now connect to the Wi-Fi network broadcasted by the extender. It might use the same SSID (network name) and password as your main router, or it might have a separate extender-specific SSID mentioned in the extender's manual [5].

Additional Tips:

• Consider giving the extender network a different SSID from your main router's network for better management [5].
• If you experience any issues, consult your extender's manual or manufacturer support for troubleshooting steps.

Here are some online resources that you might find helpful:

• Video: How to set up a Wi-Fi extender YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PEQPqqI2Z2k
• Guide: How to install a Wi-Fi range extender TechRadar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WeIuTbaNYk

Remember, the specific setup steps might vary depending on your extender model. Feel free to ask if you have any questions about your particular extender!

Its OK for the public to attend public school board meetings.

 

The last time an item affecting student health (Covid) was brought up with the board, numerous people with signs came to be heard.  They were made to wait in the hall until an LSIC board meeting was held.  I came to that meeting and was told to leave.  When that meeting was completed, the public was allowed in but they were told to not bring their signs with them.

This time the issues involve students education and mental health.  Cutting teachers and programs is unacceptable...especially for a system that gets 45 percent more money than the average school in the state.

 Signs are a form of speech!

Are West Virginia School Improvement Councils open to the public? (AI)

 

Are West Virginia School Improvement Councils open to the public

Yes, West Virginia School Improvement Councils (LSICs) are open to the public. In fact, there's a mandate that all LSIC meetings must be open for public attendance [2]. This is in accordance with the Open Governmental Proceedings Act of West Virginia [2].

Here's some additional information you might find helpful:

• LSICs are established in every public school in the state [4].
• Their role is to collaborate with school staff and administration on improvement initiatives for the learning environment [4].
• They typically meet at least once every nine weeks [2].

If you'd like to find out more about a specific school's LSIC, you can check their website or contact the school directly.

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WV Code 6-9A is the West Virginia Open Governmental Proceedings Act, which ensures public access to meetings of various government agencies in the state. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

• Policy: The legislature emphasizes that citizens have the right to be informed about governmental actions [WV Code §6-9A-1]. Public meetings are essential for achieving this transparency ([WV Code §6-9A-1]).
• Open Meetings: Meetings of public agencies must be open to the public, with limited exceptions outlined in the Act [WV Code §6-9A-3].
• Exceptions for Executive Sessions: Under specific circumstances, a governing body can hold a closed-door meeting, also known as an executive session. Reasons for such exceptions include discussing personnel matters, potential legal issues, or real estate transactions [WV Code §6-9A-4].
• Public Notice: Proper notification regarding the time, location, and agenda of all meetings must be provided beforehand [WV Code §6-9A-3].
• Minutes: Meeting minutes that capture the essential details of the discussions and decisions must be maintained for public access [WV Code §6-9A-5].
• Enforcement: The Act allows legal action to be taken in case of violations [WV Code §6-9A-6].

 

Popcorn Lung

Popcorn lung is the informal term for bronchiolitis obliterans (BO), a serious lung disease caused by scarring of the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs. This scarring narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe.

Causes of Popcorn Lung

Popcorn lung was first identified in microwave popcorn factory workers who inhaled diacetyl, a butter-flavoring agent, over long periods. Diacetyl is rarely used in microwave popcorn anymore due to safety concerns, but it can still be found in some e-cigarette or vaping products.

Other potential causes of popcorn lung include:

• Exposure to other harmful chemicals, such as those found in certain industrial settings or polluted air
• Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren's syndrome
• Lung transplant rejection

Symptoms of Popcorn Lung

The main symptoms of popcorn lung include:

• A dry cough that won't go away
• Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Wheezing or crackling sounds in the chest
• Fatigue

Popcorn Lung vs. EVALI

While both popcorn lung and EVALI (e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury) can damage the lungs and cause breathing problems, they have different causes. Popcorn lung is typically caused by long-term exposure to specific chemicals, while EVALI is linked to the chemicals found in vaping products, particularly those containing THC.

Treatment for Popcorn Lung

There is no cure for popcorn lung, but treatment can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

• Bronchodilators to relax the airways and make breathing easier
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the airways
• Oxygen therapy in severe cases
• Lung transplant in very rare cases

Prevention of Popcorn Lung

The best way to prevent popcorn lung is to avoid exposure to the chemicals that can cause it. This means:

• If you work in a setting where you might be exposed to harmful chemicals, wear appropriate protective gear.
• Avoid using e-cigarette or vaping products, especially those containing diacetyl or THC.
• If you experience symptoms of popcorn lung, see a doctor right away for diagnosis and treatment.
Opens in a new window en.wikipedia.org
Popcorn lung

Vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) is a serious condition that damages the lungs and can cause breathing problems. The exact cause of EVALI is still being investigated, but it's linked to chemicals found in vaping products, particularly those containing THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana.

Here's a summary of EVALI:

• Symptoms: Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Causes: Likely linked to chemicals in vaping products, especially THC-containing ones. Vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent used in some THC vaping products, has been strongly linked to EVALI.
• Diagnosis: There's no single test for EVALI. Doctors diagnose it by ruling out other conditions and taking a history of vaping product use. Chest X-rays and CT scans may also be used.
• Treatment: There is no specific treatment for EVALI. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the lungs. This may include medications like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, oxygen therapy to help with breathing, and supportive care such as rest and fluids. In severe cases, people may need to be put on a ventilator.
• Prevention: The best way to prevent EVALI is to avoid vaping altogether. If you must vape, avoid products containing THC or vitamin E acetate.

Image of EVALI lungs:

Opens in a new window news.unchealthcare.org

Lungs with EVALI

The Dark side of vaping

 

Vaping has been marketed as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, but there's a growing body of evidence that it's not without its risks. Here's a look at some of the potential dangers of vaping:

• Addiction: Like cigarettes, most vape juices contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine addiction can lead to cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty quitting.
  Opens in a new window www.acs.org

  Nicotine molecule
• Lung damage: Vaping can irritate the lungs and airways, causing coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In some cases, it can lead to a serious condition called vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI).
  Opens in a new window news.unchealthcare.org

  EVALI lungs
• Heart problems: The chemicals in vape juice can damage the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.
• Brain development: Nicotine can harm the developing brain, leading to problems with learning, memory, and attention. This is especially concerning for teens and young adults whose brains are still maturing.
• Unknown risks: Because vaping is a relatively new phenomenon, the long-term health effects are still unknown. There is some concern that vaping may increase the risk of cancer, but more research is needed.

Other dark sides of vaping:

• Gateway to smoking: Some experts worry that vaping may be a gateway to smoking cigarettes, especially for teens.
• Secondhand exposure: The vapor from e-cigarettes is not harmless. It can contain nicotine and other harmful chemicals that can be inhaled by bystanders.
• Normalization of smoking: Vaping may make smoking seem more acceptable, which could lead to more people taking up the habit.

If you're considering vaping, it's important to weigh the risks and benefits. There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, and these are generally safer and more effective than vaping.

Next Day Of Forever: Addiction (AI)

 

The harsh red light that had been boring into Alex's eyelids finally flickered and died. He blinked, taking in the desolate wasteland that stretched before him. A cracked, ashen ground stretched to a horizon choked with a sickly yellow fog. The air was thick and hot, carrying the faint metallic tang of blood.

The throbbing in his head was a dull counterpoint to the unending silence. He remembered the cold sweat, the frantic scrabbling for his phone, the hollowness that followed. But mostly, he remembered the darkness. Now, a different kind of darkness pressed in on him, a suffocating absence of hope.

A dry cough racked him, and a figure materialized from the swirling fog. It was a skeletal man, his eyes glowing embers, a cruel smile twisting his lipless maw. "Welcome," he rasped, his voice like gravel grinding against stone, "to the next day of your forever."

This, Alex realized with a jolt of terror, was not oblivion. This was punishment.

The day unfolded in a relentless cycle of torment. Cravings, the same ones that had led him down that dark path, would flicker to life, agonizingly real. But there would be nothing to satisfy them, just the echo of his choices mocking him.

He saw others too, hollow-eyed souls forever chained to their addictions. A gambler forever reliving the crushing weight of debt, a drinker eternally parched, their torments a grotesque reflection of his own.

As the day wore on, a new kind of pain gnawed at him – regret. The faces of loved ones, pushed away in his pursuit of oblivion, flickered in his mind. The life he'd thrown away, the chances he'd squandered, a suffocating weight on his soul.

As the sickly yellow fog rolled in, signaling the end of another day, a flicker of something new sparked within Alex. It wasn't hope, not yet. But it was a sliver of something akin to resolve. He wouldn't succumb to the despair. He would endure. Maybe, just maybe, there was a way out of this personal hell.

The next day would dawn, harsh and unforgiving. But for the first time, Alex wouldn't greet it with empty despair. He would face it, a single ember of defiance flickering in the abyss.

Social Factors and Shoplifting in Adolescents

 

The influence of peer pressure, thrill-seeking behavior, and societal messages on shoplifting, particularly among adolescents.

Social Factors and Shoplifting in Adolescents

Shoplifting isn't just a random act. Social factors can significantly influence adolescents to steal from stores. Here's a breakdown of three key influences:

1. Peer Pressure:

• The desire to fit in and gain approval from friends is a powerful motivator for teenagers. If friends suggest shoplifting, an adolescent might feel pressured to join in out of fear of rejection or being seen as "weak."
• Shoplifting can be seen as a rebellious act, and some teens might participate to project a certain image to their peers.

2. Thrill-Seeking Behavior:

• The teenage brain is still developing, and the prefrontal cortex responsible for impulse control isn't fully formed. This can lead to a heightened desire for excitement and risk-taking.
• Shoplifting can provide a thrill of getting away with something forbidden, appealing to adolescents seeking a quick adrenaline rush.

3. Societal Messages:

• Materialism and the constant bombardment of social media showcasing the latest trends can create a strong desire for possessions. When teens feel they can't afford these items legitimately, shoplifting can be seen as a shortcut.
• Societal messages that equate self-worth with material possessions can fuel the need to shoplift to feel good about oneself.

Combined Effect:

These social factors often work together. Peer pressure might present the opportunity for shoplifting, while societal messages create the desire for the items, and the thrill-seeking nature makes the act appealing.

Additional Considerations:

• Lack of clear boundaries and strong parental guidance can increase the risk of shoplifting.
• Socioeconomic factors can also play a role. Teens from underprivileged backgrounds might feel pressure to shoplift to keep up with their peers.

Understanding these social influences is crucial for addressing shoplifting in adolescents. Effective prevention strategies could include:

• Open communication about values and the consequences of shoplifting.
• Promoting positive self-esteem that doesn't rely on material possessions.
• Parental monitoring and setting clear expectations.

By recognizing the social factors at play, we can help teenagers make positive choices and avoid the negative consequences of shoplifting.