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33 Bible Verses About Faith, Hope, and Trust to Use in Prayer During Hard Times

May these Bible verses about faith in hard times be what you need to be lifted up whether you find yourself in the depths of a valley or atop a mountain in this cycle of life today!

90 Bible Verses to Remind You That God’s Love Is Unconditional

Let these Bible verses remind you that God's love is unconditional. And, don't forget love one another just like God first loved us.

Boy Crawls into Stranger’s Arms at Football Game— His Aunt Hunts Her Down With Powerful Facebook Post

"I don’t know who this lady is... she waved at him and he made his way up to her. I thought their interaction would be the same as last time but I was wrong. "
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Viral Outrage: Young Woman’s Car Remotely Disabled Over Late Payment Sparks Debate

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The intersection of technology and consumer rights is proving to be a contentious battlefield in today’s automotive industry. One of the latest practices that highlight this conflict involves car dealerships’ ability to remotely disable vehicles over delayed payments. This issue came to light following a viral TikTok video by a user named Legacyyy, who found herself stranded after having her car remotely disabled without her knowledge for being slightly late on a payment. This incident not only raises questions about consumer privacy and autonomy but also challenges the ethical boundaries of financial enforcement.

Car Remotely Disabled: The Incident That Sparked Debate

Legacyyy, a TikTok user with the handle @legacy.jai, shared a distressing experience that quickly captured widespread attention. After being merely days late on her car payment, she discovered that her car had been remotely disabled by the dealership while she was at the gym, leaving her unable to drive home. In her video, she expressed her frustration and disbelief, stating, “My car note isn’t even a week late… and they cut my car off.”

@legacy.jai♬ original sound – Legacyyy


 “If nothing else gets paid… it’s three things that definitely get paid no matter what is my car note, insurance and rent!!”

This incident highlights the power that dealerships can wield over consumers through modern technology. Legacyyy’s situation sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users expressing concern over the fairness and legality of such actions. The viral nature of her story underlines the public’s growing unease with the invasive measures some companies take to ensure financial compliance.

Technological Enforcement of Financial Compliance

The technology that enables dealerships to remotely disable vehicles is based on systems equipped with GPS trackers and starter interrupt devices. These systems are installed under the assumption that they protect the financial interests of dealerships and lenders, particularly in dealings with high-risk borrowers. The devices can be activated remotely to disable the vehicle’s starter system, effectively preventing the engine from starting.

While these technologies offer a clear benefit to lenders by mitigating payment delinquencies, they also introduce significant risks regarding privacy and consumer rights. The key concern here is the lack of transparency and consent—many consumers are unaware that such devices have been installed in their vehicles, and they are often poorly informed about the circumstances under which these measures can be employed.

Consumer Rights and Financial Ethics

The use of remote disabling technology touches on several critical ethical and legal issues. From a legal standpoint, the practice sits in a grey area. While lenders and dealerships may argue that buyers agree to these terms in their financing agreements, the question remains whether such agreements are truly made with informed consent.

Consumer rights advocates argue that the ability to disable a vehicle remotely is an excessive use of power that can leave consumers vulnerable in potentially dangerous situations. For example, being stranded without a means of transportation can not only cause significant inconvenience but also compromise personal safety.

Personal Stories and Broader Implications

Beyond Legacyyy’s story, numerous other consumers have encountered similar issues, often sharing their experiences in online forums and social media platforms. These accounts paint a troubling picture of the power imbalance between consumers and financial institutions, and they underscore the need for stricter regulations on the use of such technologies.

Soulja Boy Steps Up! A Bold Bid to Buy TikTok Amid US Regulatory Concerns

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In an era where celebrities are increasingly crossing into entrepreneurial territories, Soulja Boy has set his sights on an ambitious endeavor. The rapper and entrepreneur has reportedly expressed his intention to purchase TikTok, aiming to save the platform from a looming ban in the United States. This move shows the complexities at the intersection of technology, entertainment, and government regulation, spotlighting Soulja Boy and his ambition to expand his business empire into the global tech scene.

Soulja Boy Sets Sights on TikTok

Background on TikTok’s Regulatory Challenges

TikTok, a social media juggernaut owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has been embroiled in controversy within the U.S. political arena. U.S. officials have raised concerns over the potential risks posed by the app, including issues related to data privacy and national security. The fear is that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, prompting calls for stringent regulations or a complete ban. These concerns were amplified during the Trump administration, which sought to either ban the app or force a sale of its U.S. operations to an American company. Although a complete ban was never realized, the Biden administration has maintained a cautious approach, keeping the pressure on TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, to comply with U.S. data security standards.

Soulja Boy Proposes to Buy TikTok

DeAndre Cortez Way, better known as Soulja Boy, is no stranger to making headlines with his business ventures. His interest in acquiring TikTok isn’t just a potential financial windfall but a strategic move to safeguard the platform’s future in the U.S. market. Soulja Boy’s proposal could potentially address governmental concerns by transferring TikTok’s American operations into the hands of a U.S. citizen, which might ease the regulatory pressures concerning data privacy and management.

This proposal highlights Soulja Boy’s understanding of both the entertainment and tech industries, envisioning a merger that could revolutionize content creation and distribution on the platform. It also suggests his readiness to tackle the complex legal and operational challenges involved in such a significant acquisition, including navigating ongoing scrutiny from various U.S. governmental bodies concerned with cybersecurity and foreign influence.

@tmz #SouljaBoy is SERIOUS about wanting to buy #TikTok ♬ original sound – TMZ

Implications for U.S. Tech and Media Industries

Acquiring TikTok would place Soulja Boy at a pivotal intersection of technology and media, potentially reshaping not just his business portfolio but also the landscape of social media and entertainment. This move could stimulate innovation within the platform, leveraging Soulja Boy’s experience in music and digital content to enhance TikTok’s appeal and engagement strategies.

His takeover could serve as a case study for future tech acquisitions, setting a precedent for how celebrities and entrepreneurs can influence major tech platforms. It might also encourage more stringent measures to ensure data privacy and security, aligning with U.S. regulatory expectations and potentially setting new industry standards.

10 Surprising Facts About Tim Tebow’s Father, Bob Tebow

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Tim Tebow is a name synonymous with faith, football, and philanthropy. While much of Tim’s public persona and professional achievements are well-documented, less is known about the man who played a pivotal role in his life—his father, Bob Tebow. In this blog, we dive into ten surprising facts about Bob Tebow that shed light on his influence, character, and the legacy he is building in his own right.

10 Little-Known Facts About Bob Tebow: The Man Behind the Mission

1. Early Life and Education

Bob Tebow was born in the United States, but much of his life’s work has been internationally focused. He grew up in a Christian family, which laid the foundations for his faith-based work later in life. After attending the University of Florida, where he met his wife, Pam, Bob’s direction in life became increasingly clear, pointing towards ministry and missionary work.

2. The Call to Missions

The turning point in Bob Tebow’s life came after he attended a conference during his college years. Inspired by a sermon on missionary work, Bob felt a profound calling to dedicate his life to spreading Christianity. This decision would later take him and his young family to the Philippines, setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to evangelical missions.

3. Establishing the Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association

In 1985, Bob founded the Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association (BTEA). The organization focuses on evangelical outreach, particularly in the Philippines. Under Bob’s leadership, BTEA has been involved in planting churches, broadcasting gospel messages via radio, and conducting public evangelistic meetings which have reached thousands of people throughout the region.

4. Pioneering the Orphanage Work

Bob Tebow’s compassion extends beyond evangelism. He has also been instrumental in establishing orphanages in the Philippines. These institutions not only provide shelter but also ensure education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance for hundreds of children, embodying his commitment to practical and spiritual care.

5. Impact on Tim’s Football Career

Bob Tebow has had a significant influence on Tim’s football career, but not in the typical ‘pushy sports parent’ way. Instead, Bob’s emphasis on character, perseverance, and humility helped shape Tim not just as a player, but as a person. This foundational character-building was crucial during Tim’s highs and lows in his sports career.

6. Author and Speaker

Besides his missionary work, Bob Tebow is a published author and a sought-after speaker. His books and speeches often focus on practical faith, parenting, and missions, drawing on his extensive experiences on the field and at home.

7. Personal Health Battles

Bob has faced significant health challenges, including a battle with Parkinson’s disease. His struggle with this debilitating condition has been public, and he uses his platform to raise awareness and encourage others who are facing similar health issues.

10 Budget-Friendly Romantic Getaways for Couples in the U.S.

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Taking a romantic getaway with your significant other doesn’t have to drain your savings. Across the United States, there are countless destinations where love and adventure come with a modest price tag. From charming Southern towns to majestic mountain retreats, these romantic getaways for couples offer unforgettable experiences for couples seeking to escape the daily grind without splurging excessively.

10 Romantic Getaways for Couples in the U.S. 

1. Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for couples who cherish art, culture, and natural beauty. You can wander through the vibrant arts district, explore the historic Biltmore Estate, or take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Affordable bed and breakfasts and numerous free outdoor activities make this a top choice for a budget-friendly retreat.

2. Savannah, Georgia

With its Spanish moss-draped squares, historic antebellum architecture, and leisurely pace, Savannah is the epitome of Southern charm. Couples can enjoy a free stroll through the historic district or relax under the oaks in Forsyth Park. Affordable eateries serving Southern delicacies add to the allure, ensuring a romantic experience that’s both enchanting and economical.

3. Moab, Utah

For adventurous couples, Moab provides a stunning backdrop with its red rock landscapes and blue skies. Here, you can explore two of America’s most beautiful national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. Camping is plentiful, making it easy to enjoy a star-filled sky each night. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the views, Moab offers a spectacular getaway at a fraction of the cost.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a city brimming with history, mystery, and culture. Stroll hand-in-hand along The Battery, or browse the old-time market for local crafts. The city’s restaurant scene offers early bird specials that are perfect for budget-conscious diners, and numerous free festivals throughout the year provide entertainment on a dime.

5. San Antonio, Texas

Famous for its River Walk and rich Texan history, San Antonio is an excellent spot for couples looking to explore without excessive spending. You can revisit history at The Alamo, one of the most important historical sites in America, and enjoy colorful barges and riverside dining without a hefty price tag.

Reflecting on Regrets: 17 Reasons Why I Wish I Never Met You

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Relationships often shape our lives in profound ways, often leaving lasting impressions that influence who we are and how we view the world. While many relationships bring joy and growth, others might lead us to wish they had never happened at all. Here’s an exploration into the complex emotions and reasons behind the sentiment “I wish I never met you,” reflecting on the lessons learned and the pain endured.

I Wish I Never Met You

The Price of Emotional Pain

  1. Lost Time: Time is a resource we never get back. Engaging in a relationship that leads nowhere or causes heartache can evoke feelings of regret for the time that could have been spent pursuing more fulfilling experiences or relationships.
  2. Emotional Turmoil: The ups and downs of an emotionally turbulent relationship can leave lasting scars. The constant cycle of highs and lows can cause emotional fatigue and hinder personal happiness and stability.
  3. Diminished Self-Esteem: Relationships that make us question our worth or value can deeply impact our self-esteem. If a relationship made you feel unworthy or less than, it’s natural to regret the encounter and its negative impact on your self-perception.
  4. Lost Opportunities: Sometimes, being in the wrong relationship can cause us to miss out on other opportunities, both personally and professionally. Looking back, you might see how different choices could have led to different opportunities.
  5. The Stress of Conflict: Constant arguments and misunderstandings can be profoundly draining. If a relationship was marked by conflict, the stress of those interactions can make you wish the relationship had never occurred.

The Shadows of Manipulation and Betrayal

  1. Manipulation: Discovering that you were manipulated by someone you trusted can be a deeply unsettling experience. The realization that your feelings and actions were influenced by someone else’s deceit can lead to a strong regret of ever having met them.
  2. Betrayal: Betrayal, whether in the form of infidelity or breaking a confidence, can shatter trust and respect. The pain of betrayal often leads to wishing you had never allowed the person close enough to hurt you.
  3. Loss of Other Relationships: Sometimes, a problematic relationship demands so much attention and energy that it can lead to the neglect or loss of other important relationships, like those with family and friends.

18 of The Most Romantic Quotes to Express Your Deepest Feelings

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Love has been the muse of poets, playwrights, and philosophers throughout the ages, inspiring some of the most beautiful and profound words ever spoken or written. Whether you’re looking to woo your partner, add a touch of romance to your wedding vows, or simply reflect on the nature of love, this comprehensive list of the most romantic quotes is sure to stir your heart and soul. Here are some of the most romantic quotes that encapsulate the depth and passion of love.

18 of The Most Romantic Quotes

Classic Romance from Literature

  1. “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” – Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights This profound statement from one of literature’s most intense romances captures the deep affinity and understanding between two souls.
  2. “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you…I could walk through my garden forever.” – Alfred Tennyson A beautiful metaphor that expresses endless affection and the continual presence of a loved one in one’s thoughts.
  3. “You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love… I love… I love you.” – Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice This confession from Mr. Darcy to Elizabeth Bennet is one of the most heartfelt and memorable in the history of literature.
  4. “In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.” – Maya Angelou A powerful affirmation of unique and irreplaceable love by one of America’s most beloved poets.

Poetic Declarations of Love

  1. “I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where. I love you simply, without problems or pride.” – Pablo Neruda, 100 Love Sonnets Neruda’s sonnets are a testament to a profound, unadulterated love that exists purely and beautifully.
  2. “I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart).” – E.E. Cummings This quote speaks to the intimate connection and constant presence of a loved one in one’s life.
  3. “Love is not about possession. Love is about appreciation.” – Osho A reminder that true love respects and appreciates the other, without seeking to control or own.
  4. “My love for you is past the mind, beyond my heart, and into my soul.” – Boris Kodjoe An expression of a deep and transcendent love that surpasses the ordinary levels of affection.

Romantic Realism

  1. “The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds.” – Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook This quote captures the dual power of love to energize and soothe, making it a source of inspiration and comfort.
  2. “We loved with a love that was more than love.” – Edgar Allan Poe, Annabel Lee Poe’s line reflects a passionate and overwhelming love that defies ordinary definitions and boundaries.
  3. “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” – Maya Angelou Angelou’s words highlight love’s strength and determination to overcome any obstacle.

Teen Dies on Christmas Night—Then His Friends Ask His Mom if She’s Seen the YouTube Video

Ben Breedlove was born with a heart problem known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This essentially meant he had a thickened heart muscle prone to causing high blood pressure and cardiac arrest.

His parents, Shawn and Deanne, were devastated to hear the news from the doctors, but reflecting on Philippians 4:6-7, they knew they had no choice but to lay their son’s fate in God’s hands:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

As his sister Ally attests, Ben was one of those kids that made you forget he was in pain. He had a fatal heart condition, but by the looks of his adventurous spirit and winsome smile, nobody would know it.

ben1-12-8
Screen grab via YouTube//CBN

Throughout his brief life, Ben’s heart failed him several times, but with each near-death experience, he came back stronger than ever.

The first time Ben Breedlove cheated death was when he was only four years old after experiencing a severe seizure.

“We were being wheeled down a hallway,” said Deanne. “And he had commented to me that there was this white light above him. And he even said it was a pitch-white light. He didn’t know pitch was black tar. He said, ‘Mom, it’s pitch white. It’s right above me. Do you see it?’ And I said, ‘No.'”

“And it was significant because the hallway that they were being wheeled down, there were no lights on in that hallway,” added Shawn.

Ben’s heart remained in relatively stable condition over the next several years, but that profound vision stayed with him.

Though he had a deep-seated faith in God, he couldn’t help but wrestle with God’s goodness as his health declined and the idea of death became imminent. Deanne and Shawn wrestled with the same conflicting emotions as well. Why would a good father allow this all to happen?

ben2-12-8
Screen grab via YouTube//CBN

In December 2011, Ben experienced two more brushes with death, and he knew the end was nearing. But something was different about the last one. He had an encounter with God that flooded his heart with the peace that passes understanding spoken of in Philippians, that before had only seemed like a fairy tale.

Student Kicked Out of Christian Class for Saying There Are “Only 2 Genders”—Now, He May Not Graduate

From the 52-year-old Canadian man who left his wife and seven kids to discover his true identity as a 6-year-old girl to the Christian teacher suspended for calling girls “girls,” it’s pretty clear the world has gone a little mad.

Oh, and did I mention a boy can now win a girl’s state wrestling title, two years running? I digress…

Today, it seems people can choose to identify as a girl, boy, alien, or Snickers bar — and anyone with the audacity to speak out against it is deemed intolerable. It’s no secret that gender roles as defined both biblically and biologically are under attack, and the latest issue that surfaced at Indiana University of Pennsylvania is only further proof.

Religious studies major Lake Ingle was punished by his professor, Alison Downie, for asserting that there are only two genders during her “Christianity 481: Self, Sin, and Salvation” lecture.


YouTube

Downie reportedly showed the class a TED Talk by Paula Stone Williams, a transgender former pastor. After Williams elaborated on concepts like “mansplaining,” “male privilege,” and “sexism from men,” she asked the females in the class for their thoughts.

When none of the women spoke up, Ingle expressed his opinion, which just so happened to be in stark contrast to that of his professor and Williams. The IUP senior told Downie and the classroom that the “official view of biologists is that there are only two genders” and challenged the educator’s views on the gender wage gap.

Downie then kicked him out of class and went to the university’s Academic Integrity Board (AIB), after which Ingle received a letter from Provost Timothy Moerland stating, “You are barred from attending this class in accordance with the Classroom Disruption policy.”

His alleged violation?

“Disrespectful objection to the professor’s class discussion structure; refusal to stop talking out of turn; angry outbursts in response to being required to listen to a trans speaker discuss the reality of white male privilege and sexism; disrespectful references to the validity of trans identity and experience.”

Yes, you read that right. The “validity” of trans identity. Realizing your identity as whatever gender you please has officially become indisputable fact. Opinions on the matter were so 2016.

The student’s punishment includes writing an apology to Downie for his “disrespectful behaviors” that specifically “explain the importance of an atmosphere of safety for an educational environment.”

He was ordered to begin class on March 8 with a public apology and then “listen in silence as the professor and/or any student who wishes to speak shares how he or she felt during Lake’s disrespectful and disruptive outbursts on 2-28.”

Ingle asserts that the professor’s actions are unconstitutional and a violation of his First Amendment rights to free speech.

“My professor is violating my First Amendment rights because of the fact that my views and ideology is different from hers,” he told Fox News. “So she took it on [upon] herself to silence and embarrass me — bully me — for speaking up in class.”

“You can’t say that anecdotal evidence is fact,” he added. “My professor pretty much just tried to shut me up because she was just letting women speak. I brought up the fact that biologists don’t agree that there’s more than two genders and I said the wage gap she’s referring to — 77 cents on the dollar — that even the New York Times debunked that.”

Still, the school is sticking by its guns. The AIB has a ruling date for Ingle and Downie set for March 19. If the senior loses his case, he will not be able to graduate in May, as the class is required for degree completion.

Despite the adversity, Ingle has stood firm in his beliefs and holds that one day he will become a professor himself, as a means of fighting the injustice he’s now facing.

“When you see that kind of misuse of intellectual power, you want to be the person that comes back and does it responsibly and with morals,” said Ingle. “Instead of being the purveyor of your ideology, you can be an educator.”

https://youtu.be/Yi0d2w6mxjU

One Last Milkshake— A Dying Woman’s Wish, Granted

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Everybody has it—the one food they love to indulge in more than anything else. The menu item that they’d want to be their last if they were on their death bed.

For Emily Pomeranz, it was a mocha milkshake from Tommy’s Restaurant in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

As her friend Sam Klein writes on Facebook, Tommy’s is famous for both its food and milkshakes. It’s the hometown favorite that calls him back every time he visits home.

“Recently, a dear friend of mine, Emily Pomeranz, who also grew up in Cleveland Heights (and also lived in the D.C. area) was moved to hospice as she had pancreatic cancer.”

It was her third bout of cancer in just 50 short years of life.

Sam went to visit his friend in hospice a few weeks back, and like anyone would do, he asked Emily if she needed anything.

‘“A Cleveland Indians hat,’ was her first response.”

The next day, Sam brought her one.

As the two friends talked, Emily revealed the one thing she really could go for was one last mocha milkshake from Tommy’s.

“Knowing that she couldn’t travel to Cleveland, I emailed the general information email address on Tommy’s website, asking if there was a way to get a milkshake the 375 miles from Coventry Road to Arlington, Virginia, where she was in hospice.”

Sam knew it was a long shot, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

To his surprise, he received a phone call from Tommy Fello—the owner of Tommy’s Restaurant.

He told Sam, “Yes. We will figure out a way to do this.”

“Sure enough, after a little research on shipping and two trips to the UPS office, he shipped a carefully packed Tommy’s mocha shake to Emily.”

How’s that for room service?

Facebook

“She talked about it for days and days. She shared the story with her friends back in Cleveland and here in the D.C. area. It was something that made everyone smile. A woman’s request for one last milkshake from her favorite restaurant. Wish granted!”

It wasn’t long after her final milkshake that Emily passed away.

“She leaves behind a treasure trove of memories; a legacy of laughter, joy and caring; grieving family and friends.”

Sam is grateful to have been able to help her fulfill one last wish in her final days. He hopes that milkshakes at Tommy’s take on a whole new meaning because of the legacy that is now beautifully linked with them.

“So, my friends, if you are in Cleveland Heights, or anywhere near there, please stop in at Coventry, order one of those incredible milkshakes and ask for Tommy (he is the one cooking in the middle of the restaurant) and say, ‘This one is for Emily. Thank you for sending one to her.'”

To the Woman at Walmart Who Called My 2-Year-Old Son “Repulsing”

Tonight, we were in Walmart standing in a long line waiting to check out. My sweet 2-year-old wanted me to hold him. As I picked him up out of the cart, his shirt came up exposing his two stomas and bags on his stomach. Typically, I have a onesie underneath his shirt, but tonight I just got him dressed quickly to run to the store. The onesie helps to keep his bags in one place and makes it harder for him to tug and pull them off.

There was an older woman in line behind me who caught a glimpse and shrieked a little before she said to me, “Why in the world would you let someone do that to him?”

I turned around speechless and just looked at her before she continued and asked why he had them. I gave her the short version and basically said, “His colon didn’t finish forming so he needed them.” I left out that he had a rare disease called Hirschsprung’s disease because I was a little annoyed from her first statement. She then goes, “Well I am sorry, but I just think that is so repulsing, can you please keep his shirt down?” At this point I just wanted to shake this woman and scream, “What is wrong with you?” But instead, I told her to have a good night and went to another line.

So now I’m sharing this picture—because there is nothing repulsing about my son. Stomas and ostomies seem to be a taboo, when in reality, more than 500,000 Americans have one. My son’s disease may be rare, but his stomas are not.

So here’s a little education for anyone who doesn’t know about stomas and ostomies. A stoma is a surgically created opening that allows the body to expel waste. Both of my son’s are from his colon, but stomas can be from your ileum (small intestine) or bladder. Was this the first choice of a life I would have chosen for my son? Absolutely not. But this was his only shot at life. When he was two weeks old, his colon ruptured. It left him with a life threatening infection that nearly killed him. His stoma saved his life. There is a very good chance he will have these for the rest of his life, and if he does, it will be my job to teach him a positive body image. It will be my job to teach him to love himself and his bags.

Had he been a couple years older and been able to understand the ignorance the lady was spewing in line behind us, how much of a negative impact do you think that would have had on him?

What that woman doesn’t understand is, when my son is healthy, he is no different than any other 2-year-old. He runs, plays, swims and goes to daycare. When he’s healthy, you wouldn’t be able to look at him and know he’s had more than 20 surgeries and procedures. You wouldn’t know he’s got more ahead in his future. You wouldn’t know he gets painful home dilation and irrigation treatments twice a day every day. You wouldn’t know that twice a day a catheter is put into his stoma to “feed” it stool in the hopes of growing his colon.

My son is my heart. He is so funny and full of personality. He is sweet and loving and kind but also a little ball of fire.

Please be kind and choose your words wisely, especially should you choose to comment about something that is none of your business. Everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about, and my son is winning his.

Chicago Teen Makes History Receiving Doctorate at Just 17 Years Old from Arizona State University

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A Chicago teen has earned her doctoral degree at just 17 years old, making her the youngest person in history to ever do so. 

Dorothy Jean Tillman II walked in her Arizona State commencement ceremony on May 6 after completing her Doctorate of Behavioral Health Management program, which she was first accepted into at the age of 15. 

Dorothy Jean Tillman’s Early Education Journey

Dorothy Jean Tillman, affectionately known by family and friends as “Dorothy Jeanius” first began her collegiate career at the age of 10, after several early years of being homeschooled. At a time when most of her peers were just entering 5th and 6th grade, Dorothy began taking college classes through the College of Lake County in Grayslake, Illinois, about two hours outside of Chicago.

She earned her associate’s degree in 2016 and finished her bachelor’s degree at Excelsior University, an online degree program based in Albany, New York, in 2018 when she was 12. 

After completing a master of science degree in 2020, Dorothy began her Doctorate of Behavioral Health Management program at Arizona State University in 2021 – at the age of 15.

She successfully defended her dissertation in December of 2023 before choosing to join her 2024 classmates in person at ASU’s spring commencement ceremony where she delivered a speech to all in attendance. 

“I got a chance to meet many of my classmates in person as well as professors,” Dorothy wrote in an Instagram post. “To get the opportunity to speak on the stage in front of 20,000 people live and 3 million online was truly an honor.”

Tillman credited her family as one of her biggest inspirations to complete her graduate studies.

“Seeing my mother consistently work so hard to continuously uphold our family’s legacy and be that person that everyone was able to go to, if they needed anything … always seeing [her] like Wonder Woman definitely made me want to grow up [into] an accomplished person,” Dorothy told Good Morning America.

The 17-year-old is also the granddaughter of Dorothy Tillman, the former Chicago alderwoman who was involved in the civil rights movement.

“People in my life like my grandmother, who was part of the civil rights movement, she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always,” Dorothy said.

What’s Ahead for Dorothy Jean Tillman?

With her degrees now done, Dorothy plans to continue reflecting on what her specific goals are as well as focus on other interests, including public speaking and growing the Dorothyjeanius STEAM Leadership Institute, a program she founded which includes summer camps designed to help young people in the arts and STEM subjects.

“I’m really just grateful that the world is my oyster, and that I’ve done so much so young,” she said. “And I have time to kind of think that through.”

In her free time, Dorothy enjoys dance and choreography. Still, completing her doctorate at just 17 years old brought on several sacrifices. 

“I didn’t have the everyday school things like homecoming dances or spirit weeks or just school pictures and things like that … that kind of create unity with my peers,” she said.

Dorothy’s mother Jimalita Tillman says she’s most impressed with her daughter’s ability show herself and her successes with grace, but to also understand when to “put her foot down” when choosing between social outings and her education.

Man or Bear? The Viral Question Shaking Social Media

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Social media is host to a particularly intriguing question has sparked widespread discussion and reflection: “Would you rather be alone in the woods with a man or bear?” This query, primarily directed towards women, has opened up a larger conversation about safety, perception of danger, and societal attitudes towards violence against women.

Man or Bear? The Internet Weighs in

The Viral Sensation

The question gained traction through a now-viral TikTok video that amassed over 18.2 million views at the time of this publication, where women on the street were asked whether they’d prefer the company of a man or bear in a forest. The overwhelming preference for the bear over a man sparked not only surprise but a deep analysis of why many women felt this way. The responses from these women were telling—they perceived the bear as a straightforward danger, one whose threats could be anticipated and potentially managed, unlike the unpredictable and often more personal threats posed by men.

@sensible_amber And honestly some men’s response to this conversation says it all, too. #fragilemasculinity #fragilemasculinitycheck #womensupportingwomen #manorbear #feminism #choosethebear ♬ original sound – Amber Wardell

Understanding the Responses

The preference for a bear speaks volumes about the current state of societal safety for women. Many comments under these videos and posts noted that with a bear, “You know what to expect.” This sentiment underscores a profound mistrust and fear that women often experience due to the prevalent threats of violence, harassment, and sexual assault—dangers that are unfortunately too common in interactions with men.

Societal Reactions

The discussions triggered by this question have revealed a divide in perceptions. Some men have felt insulted or accused by the preference for a bear, viewing it as a form of misandry, while others have used it as an opportunity to mock or belittle the legitimate fears of women. However, these reactions only seem to reinforce the original sentiment of the question, demonstrating how dismissive or unaware many remain about the genuine fears women face.

@dadchatsThis is America ♬ original sound – dadchats

Broader Implications

This viral discussion is about more than just hypothetical survival scenarios; it is a poignant reflection on how women perceive their safety and the lengths they feel they must consider to protect themselves. The debate brings to light unsettling statistics, such as those from the United Nations, which indicate that almost 89,000 women were intentionally killed in 2022 alone, and that one in three women globally have experienced sexual or physical violence.

The Need for Change

The “man or bear?” question is not just a viral internet phenomenon but a stark illustration of the urgent need for societal change. The discussions and the discomfort they provoke are indicative of a deeper societal problem—a failure to ensure safety and equality for all members of society, particularly women.

Voices from Both Sides

Interestingly, the conversation is not strictly divided along gender lines. Many men have participated in the discussion, some agreeing with the bear choice, acknowledging the pervasive and often hidden dangers women face. For example, one TikToker consulted her father, a lifelong bear hunter, who soberly advised that she would stand a better chance with the bear, adding, “Because men are evil,” highlighting a candid acknowledgment of the darker aspects of human nature.

The “man or bear?” debate is more than a quirky social media trend; it’s a critical conversation starter about gender, safety, and the perceptions that guide our interactions. It challenges both men and women to reflect on and address the underlying issues that make such a question relevant today. As this debate continues to unfold, it has the potential to foster important conversations and, hopefully, lead to actions that make asking such a question no longer necessary.

This viral question, though simple, peels back layers of societal issues and opens up a dialogue that could pave the way for safer, more understanding interactions within our communities.