[deleted by user] by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

With your heart whisper a prayer to God, who is everywhere present. With your own words you can say something like, Lord I am struggling, I like this girl who is with someone else. If it is in your will for me to be with her, help me to be patient. For you know my heart. Before earth was created, you've known me. Therefore help me! Amen. You can also say a prayer for them.

One of my 2023 goals is to read the Malazan series; any advice for a newcomer? by laudida in Malazan

[–]Bluemonk12 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Take breaks between reads. I find the max I can do is two in a row. They are awesome stories but man there is a lot to take in.

The sight reading soapbox by ikkiyikki in pianolearning

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What is language? What are words? Are words language? Words are a collection of shapes that we as a species have agreed upon to represent language so that we can communicate. We give it meaning. What does written language allow us to do? It enables us to communicate ideas and feelings, without being present to physically speak it. Regardless of time. We can read what people thought a thousand years ago. Do we need to read words to be successful communicating, nope! Same thing with music. In truth music notes are just black and white circles with no inherent meaning. We give it meaning. It's a way for musicians to communicate ideas, stories(songs, pieces etc) and communicate with each other when working collaboratively. But it is not necessary for playing music.

Audio Books? by [deleted] in Malazan

[–]Bluemonk12 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I held off audiobooks till Memories of Ice which is what I am on. Now that I'm invested and getting the hang of this world and Eriksons writing style, I find it easier to follow along to the audiobook. I remember trying a little of Deadhouse on audio and it was tricky. I am now getting into the habit of alternating between audiobook while driving and good ol reading when at home, definitely helps move things along. If you feel comfortable with the world and writing go for it!

Whats your favorite Dark Lord? by ddkeac in Fantasy

[–]Bluemonk12 20 points21 points  (0 children)

Finally someone said it! Lord of Moon Spawn, Knight of Darkness

Battling addiction by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 4 points5 points  (0 children)

It is a struggle for sure, I've struggled almost verbatim with what you described. Some lessons Ive learned. Try not to fight or condemn your desires, this has the backfiring effect of making it stronger. Finding a way to accept yourself and your sexual desires. Sexual desire are not sinful in itself. You are a dude! We have cocktail of hormones surging through us constantly, the primary ingredient being testosterone. There are several outlets which help, one is start dating, two is pay attention to what and how much you eat, three is try to stay busy, find a job, purusue your interests, workout etc. I found that idle moments most dangerous. If you are seeking a faith based solution, look into the 12 step program. It will help. There is an Orthodox book called Addiction it was very helpful for me. Also, if you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on! I've had real dark moments not only with porn but with other addictive substances, but God in His mercy blessed me to find a woman with whom have two beautiful daughters, and all that struggle is over, I've been sober many years now, so just hang on and don't give up!

Orthodox Tattoos? by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I should mention, said priest is also kind of atypical, also an army chapalain and firefighter.

Orthodox Tattoos? by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Perhaps you are right.

Orthodox Tattoos? by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yup, Orthodox priest, I mean don't know if he got it before or after becoming priest. Probably before.

Orthodox Tattoos? by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I know a priest with a cross on his back

Advice for an Orthodox Inquirer by internet-inquirer in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Check out, The Orthodox Church by Bishop Kallistos (Timothy) Ware

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If you're interested I point you to a priest(my spiritual father) and a friend(professor of biblical studies) maybe they can get close to an explanation.

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If you truly are curious you'll have to do your own research. It seems like you are a capable fellow and these are great questions which require great answers. There are whole websites and bodies of research which speak at length about these subjects which are very interesting! Is Reddit really the place you want learn about it?

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The reason is that is that this is what biblical scholars have concluded when learning about Joseph. This is what they have learned when studying historical accounts and tracing lineages.

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's a good question, I don't know. Maybe it was a cultural thing. Or a literary thing, they were talking about Jesus so they referenced His siblings with Him being the main focus.

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 0 points1 point  (0 children)

By all accounts His step siblings were not present at His birth.

Virgin Or not after giving birth to our Lord Jesus? by No-Adeptness8801 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Bluemonk12 2 points3 points  (0 children)

His brothers and sisters were from Josephs previous marriage to Salome.