Handmade Holiday Cards

need help with selling holiday cards? I have created some unique holiday cards and i want to sell them. I want to know the best way to go about selling them. I only want to make about 1000 cards. I am wanting to sell them for possibly $2-$3 each. I just need help to sell them. Any ideas?

holiday cards? anyone know where unique Christmas cards can be found online?I like whimsical

Looking for holliday cards (?overseas) They show different christmas scenes with some type of bark. (?banana). The cards are very rare and unique. The tree barks stands out from other cards. The inside of the card has a religious greeting on it. I have been looking for this set of holiday cards for 2 years now. I know there is a website address on the back of each card. I just can not recall were I ordered them from. Please help me!!!!! This is an update on my earlier question... I found the website that has these cards. Search "Food of the poor". I ordered my cards today. Thanks to all.

Need advice - shopping for unique card decks (poker) online.? Hi. I'm trying to get a good, interesting poker deck as a holiday gift. Now, I've been to a bunch of sites, and seen a bunch of unusual decks. But I'm looking for something that is still somewhat professional/casino like.... but varies on the face side. Here is a screencap (Ocean's 13) of a deck that is up to par. http://www.flickr.com/photos/65545920@N00/2071542127/ The back isn't too important. the plainer, the better. It's about the card front. I love the different font. I love that they invert the color/white areas on the pips, yet it's still easy to read. I love that there are no stupid photos on the cards. If I could find this deck, that would be the best. If I could find decks sort of like this, that have an interesting face design, that would also be great. But most of the sites I've found don't even have photos of the face. Most sites only have photos of the back. So if anyone even knows of sites where most photos of the cards include front side, it'd be a huge help.

Unique Question... Please help? My family is getting holiday pictures to put on our holiday cards. This is the card we want to use: http://www.vistaprint.com/vp/ns/easypath/uploadpicture.aspx?ref=1&page=1&pf_id=243&combo_id=64182&g=201&gallery_id=201&category_id=9807&orig_combo1=17011.97.25.81026%7c81026%2c67396%7c655%7c0&orig_combo2=7371.97.25.81024%7c81024%7c655%7c0&click=0&epupstep=1&combo1=17011.97.25.81026%7c81026%2c67396%7c655%7c0&combo2=7371.97.25.81024%7c81024%7c655%7c0&redir=3 We are having trouble deciding on how our family should be placed in the pictures. There will be 5 or 6 people in the picture. Do you have any ideas on how we should be placed. DO you have any pictures you could show. Thanks, Sierra

What would you use as a package for a gift card? I am getting a few people gift cards for the holiday (by their request) and I am looking for unique ways to package them other than the boring old envelope. Ideas anyone? I have done the shoebox idea and the greeting card idea before...just didn't know if there was something new and innovative I hadn't seen in the stores.

Help for a unique girl. Valentine gift inquiry. She loves the history. Suggestions Please? My girlfriend is REALLY into this holiday. She's not the cliche chocolates, card & flowers kind of girl. I mean the history of this holiday & how bloody & brutal it was to begin with. I think it's pretty awesome but what the HELL do you get a girl like that??? I know gifts are suppose to be unique & custom to the person's personality. I'm just asking for suggestions to get my mind rolling. A little push, you know? Thanks a bunch.

Eco-friendly gifts for a grave site? I like to leave my mom, who passed away last year, little gifts at her head stone. Since I leave things for Christmas, her birthday, and mothers day I realized how much stuff could accumulate. I have brought balloons in the past and flowers(commercial) but I don't think these things are very eco-friendly. Not to mention greeting cards I leave as well. I live in the north so I can't bring fresh flowers very often I don't think commercial are the best or truly genuine. I also thought about planting something but I really like to bring something new at these different holidays. Any unique eco-friendly suggestions would be great!!!!

help me compile generic holiday greetings? I'm need help compiling generic greetings, saying, and quotes to make cards for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentines day. I especially need more nuetral sayings for Chirstmas so I don't offend anyone for this particular event at a hospital. ( Ha Ha like I care about the "happy holiday" thing. Glory to the new-born King, kids!). I'm also looking for cute or funny things to put in the Thanksgiving Cards. The Valentine's day cards don't need to be personal just give the idea: "hey i'm thinking of you" so the person will feel alright. I need quite a few; probably 20 for each holiday. I will give the Best Answer to whoever suggest the most unique and best quality sayings. Thank you and please post quickly.

Happy Holidays & Save the Date Wording? On our holiday card this year we are going to include our Save the Date on it. Does anyone have any unique, fun sayings that would incorporate both the holidays and our special day? I have been searching online and am not coming up with much. Any and all help is appreciated as long as it is on topic.

My new boyfriend has me feeling profoundly disappointed this holiday season. Is my reaction warranted? My new boyfriend (since Sept.) left Saturday to spend Christmas & New Year's with his family out-of-the-country, where he will be incommunicado. Even after I gave him a very unique present that he showed off at his office the day before he left, I received no gesture or expression of "Merry Christmas" from him prior to his departure: not a gift, not a card, not a call, not even an email. He is very considerate & expressive otherwise, which is why I don't understand his lack of expression on this, our first, holiday season together. This hurts and my faith in my perceptions of our relationship has taken a hit. I feel that discussing this issue with him is moot because the damage is already done. Besides, if I were to do so, I would be afraid that he may try to overcompensate, which would make matters worse. Such an expression should have been freely given in a timely manner, don't you agree? Do you think that my disappointment over this is warranted? Why or why not? Thks in advance! I fear that some have misinterpreted, because I was not expecting a gift. The whole point and main question is, If he loves me as he says he does, why did he not tell me "Merry Christmas...I love you" in some way? Also, he is Christian and is not foreign, but he joined his family out-of-the-country for the holidays. There is no cultural dynamic at play here. Thank you all for your responses, even with the misinterpretations.

Anyone dealt with a rude Ebay seller/customer? Last Friday, I got a holiday card I bought on Ebay. Then I wrote a thank you email note to the guy who sold me the card. I also asked him where he got the card and I left him a positive feedback message since he did the same thing for me as well. Well four days later, I hear nothing from the seller. So yesterday I wrote to him asking him (politely) why he did not thank me nor did he answer my question. I also added that anyone who does not answer my emails after I have done something generous for them is considered to be rude and insulting. The guy writes back and he has the nerve to tell me that I'm the one who's rude and claims he does not need to thank me for leaving positive feedback for him. Come on here! I have been very nice and courteous towards all of the Ebay sellers I've dealt with over the years. It's in my nature to write thank you notes to the sellers I've bought things from. Most of them do write back to thank me. If the item is unique or has a history behind it, I usually ask the seller where he or she got it from and they would have a little story to tell. The response from this seller has pissed me off and I don't ever want to buy another thing from this guy ever again. Am I right about this? Do you think this seller was being rude to me? And have you had any bad experiences with an Ebay seller/customer?

What's a creative and unique way to give my boyfriend presents? I usually get all of his presents for all holidays at the end of the year. So, starting next week, i'm sending him random Cards saying " get well " , when he was sick, saying " i love you " , saying " thank you " , saying " miss you " when we fought for everyday for 1 week. Right now, i'm making him 1,437 stars to put in a giantic heart jar for thanksgiving, to represent my thank for him. ( 1437 = i love you _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ) Then, for his birthday, i'm going to make him a homemade card, and a visa gift card with $61.47 on it. ( 6147 = Always, i love _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ) He understands what these number code means. And, i made him a homemade teddy bear for Christmas. And I'm getting him hello kitty pencils and erasers ( no, he isn't gay, i just like giving him girly stuff, and he actually uses it ).. I'm also giving him this... Creative 100 page journal filled with colorful decoration, poems and .. notes about how much i love him, and i sometimes write about my day in it too. I dont know what else to get him. That is not enough. If you have any ideas.. tell me please. I'm not a very good.. knitter, but i can knit, i just don't know how to end the knit... so i wanted to make him a scarf, but gah! Maybe i should learn how to end it. I also wanted to ... get one of those fuzzy socks for him ( matching pairs with me ) for christmas Eve, then i'll get... cute patches and stitch it on them. I'm also thinking about painting him a picture and making him a poster... What else should i do? Please don't say anything like " Give him kisses " , or " tell him you love him " or especially " send him naked pictures " ... I promise myself to stay as a virgin until im married, so i can't blow him or w/e either. Any creative present websites is also useful! Thanks for those of you who is willing to help! =]

Last minute Easter gift ideas for my honey.? We're not religious, so the holiday doesn't have any particular significance other than a sort of cultural celebration we take part in. Nonetheless, I like to try to make holidays special. Unfortunately, I've been really busy and haven't had a chance to think of anything creative. Does anyone have any unique ideas for a simple Easter gift for my boyfriend? I don't want to do candy or cards or even flowers. No stuffed bunnies or chicks. I'm pretty crafty, but I don't have much time (like under an hour before he comes over tonight). It might be impossible, but I thought I'd pick your brains before giving up. Thanks!

Some unique Christmas Gift for Best Friend...Tight budget.? Hey , kay so i have a really close friend (girl!!) and well we haven't been friends for a long time.. i have just gotten to know her in the past few months. she is going to VEGAS! over christmas holidays and is telling me she is going to get me a great gift and that I'm sure to love it! ... which is great! but i want to make sure my gift to her is just as good as the one she gives to me. BUT i don't want to spend a whole whack of money on her either. So with a budget no more then 30 dollars i would really like to get her something great! Im not very good at scrap booking or anything homemade.. so i don't mind if it is store bought cause i will be making a nice card for her also. Please be specific as possible (don't just say .. clothes ) cause that doesn't help me . oh and i also wont buy anything online so it has to be buy-able at the mall . TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA ON HER PERSONALITY AND STYLE: She's very outgoing and is very talkative! sometimes she wont ever shut up! she is 14 years old and has a great sense of style... she's into all the H&M clothes and juicy couture and chic things like that. She is a Drama freak! as in she loves acting and the arts. her favorite T.V shows are Glee and Ugly betty and Criminal Minds... and she will basically like anything that's from the heart! PLEASE help me get some great ideas and REMEMBER that i have a budget ! THANKS ! :)

Please Help? I have to do a project where I have to do something kind, but it has to be random/unique and have to record it. Some examples (I cannot use it cause some people are already using it): Making (they made them by hand) holiday cookies for their teachers and writing nice, long thank you cards with them Volunteering at the local shelter Decorating and cleaning a favorite teachers classroom – they also left a nice thank you card

Are there any services out there where I can create my own website for free? I don't want to spend money.? I'm starting up a business at home creating unique and customized wedding invitations, wedding accessories (thank you notes, place cards, programs, etc.) and note cards (bridal showers, baby showers/baby gifts, birthdays, holidays, etc.) and want to get myself out there but I'm trying to not spend too much money, especially on a website for my work. I'm a graphic designer working since 1997 in the corporate world and am looking to take my design, photography and scrapbooking talents and combine it into one unique business I can do from home. Anyone can help with ideas to get started or know of someway to get a free website. Help is greatly apprecaited!

homemade jewlery to be sold...how? im 15 and my mom and i frequently make homemade jewlery for ourselves or as gifts to friends and family. we do not hand-make the beads but we go to a shop which sells really unique beads that are reasonably priced. one day i had this idea to start selling jewlery because i'm at the age where i'm looking for a job but i have a love of fashion and accessories and i really want to sell my jewlery so that i can do it on my time and not let it interfere with school. also, i'm a big giver and when i have some money from birthday, holidays, and good report cards, while i love buying clothes, shoes, and everything else, i always set aside a bit of money to give to one of a few charities i love. so i'd love to put maybe 25% or so of profits towards charity. my mom will help out with all this and i was wondering what is the best way to do this ONLINE. a few of my moms friends recomend esty and we've looked into that and it seems really good but there's always ebay and stuff like that. i can also hopefully try to advertise on my facebook, myspace, and twitter of course too

Please Help (Easy, Yet Hard)? I have to do a project where I have to do something kind, but it has to be random/unique and have to record it. Some examples (I cannot use it cause some people are already using it): Volunteering at a local humane society for an afternoon Running errands for an elderly neighbor for a few days Putting change in meters that were almost expired Making (they made them by hand) holiday cookies for their teachers and writing nice, long thank you cards with them Volunteering at the local shelter Cooking a dinner for your parents and making the effort to spend quality time with them Decorating and cleaning a favorite teachers classroom – they also left a nice thank you card Sending anonymous flowers to the secretaries No money is allowed.

Ever heard of March 14th "Man's Day"? "You know the drill. Every 14th of February you get the chance to display your fondness for a significant other by showering her with gifts, flowers, dinner, shows and any other baubles that women find romantic. Every Valentines day you rack your brains for that one special, unique gift that will show your wife or girlfriend that you really do care for them more than any other. Now ladies, I'll let you in on a little secret; guys really don't enjoy this that much. Sure seeing that smile on your face when we get it right is priceless, but that smile is the result of weeks of blood, sweat and consideration. Another secret; guys feel left out. That's right, there's no special holiday for the ladies to show their appreciation for the men in their life. Men as a whole are either too proud or too embarrassed to admit it. Which is why a new holiday has been created. March 14th is now officially "Steak and Suck me Day". Simple, effective and self explanatory, this holiday has been created so you ladies finally have a day to show your man how much you care for him. No cards, no flowers, no special nights on the town; the name of the holiday explains it all, just a steak and a BJ. Thats it. Finally, this twin pair of Valentine's Day and Steak and Blowjob Day will usher in a new age of love as men everywhere try THAT much harder in February to ensure a memorable March 14th! The word is already beginning to spread, but as with any new idea, it needs a little push to start the ball rolling. So spread the word, and help bring love and peace to this crazy world. And, of course, steak and BJ's. "

What can I send soldiers for 4th of July? My brother is in Iraq and we send his troop of 85 soldiers a big box to celebrate each holiday. We want to send a 4th of July box, but we need ideas of what to send. Don't suggest decorations, as we've already got that taken care of. Don't suggest signs, letters of support, or photos - we know to send all the regular things people send soldiers. Please suggest food/drink items that could be easily sent to Iraq (will still be good if it melts, won't spoil) as well as anything unique that they might like. We're sending the stuff for them all to make s'mores (they can make a bonfire), but what else says summer and patriotism? It is an Army Infantry troop, with ONLY men on the FOB, and no access to clean water (except bottled), microwaves, fridges, or freezers. It must also be something my family can afford 85 of, since everyone must get one, so please don't suggest something like calling cards. Thanks in advance.

Survey anyone? Want to Tickle your brain a little? Okay kiddo's I am not bored, but I came across this survey and I think its pretty cool...and yes I am going to post my answers too. Okay here we go....ready? Whats your middle name? Rita How big is your bed? Queen Size Bed What are you listening to right now? The Detroit Piston game LoL. We're crushing Indiana!! ha ha What are the last 4 digits in your cellphone number? 1422 What was the last thing you ate? Mini Almond Joy (I had 2 lol) Last person you hugged? My mom. I♥Her How is the weather right now? Cold and Crappy Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? My cousin Heather What is the first thing u notice in the opposite sex? His smile Favorite type of Food: Anything Italian or anything seafood Do you want children? Hell Yeah! I want 6 Do you drink? Yes and No...but if I do I will have a Gin & Tonic with lime please Ever get so drunk you don't remember the entire night? Nope Never been drunk. What? I havent. Hair color? Black with a few Dark Plum Highlights....yum Eye colour? Light Brown Do you wear contacts/glasses? nope. Neither. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have two so sue me! Favorite Season? The earlt fall time where its still warm but the leaves have already changed colors. Its so beautiful. Have you ever cried over a girl/boy? Don't remind me please. Last Movie you Watched? The Cure. Omg so sad. :( What books are you reading? 1453 and Soverign Piercings? just my ears Favorite college football Team? MSU-Michigan State What were you doing before filling this out? watching the basketball game...can you tell I like sports? lol Any pets? my kitty Pebblez Dogs or cats? cats. But I love dogs too. Favorite Flower? Tangerine Roses...they are so beauiful. And not to mention my fave color. Have you ever loved someone? I have loved a lot of people. The question is...have I ever been IN LOVE with someone....Yes. Who would you like to see right now? Stinky. I miss him. Have you ever fired a gun? Yeah, I have been to the range a couple of times. Do you like to travel by plane? Omg I love it Right-handed or Left-handed? Right If you could go to any place right now where would you go? To the moon Are you missing someone? mmmhhhhmmmm Do you have a tattoo? nope. Do you still watch cartoons on Saturday mornings? No. Who the hell has time?! Are you hiding something from someone? No. WHAT IS THE WALLPAPER ON YOUR CELLPHONE? Dolophins DID YOU GET ENOUGH SLEEP LAST NIGHT? Not really. Kept waking up. FIRST THING YOU THOUGHT ABOUT THIS MORNING? What should I wear and how cold is it outside? WHAT DO YOU HAVE HANDY AT YOUR BEDSIDE? Chapstick and Water and my remote control. GRILLED OR FRIED? depends what kind of mood I am in. WHAT MAKES YOU UNIQUE? That there is only one of me ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE DARK? Who told you?! FAVORITE HANGOUT? HOME. 3 THINGS YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT? The people I love, cellphone and money. FAVORITE SONG? Tracy Chapman- Give me one reason WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF? the dark and spiders. ARE YOU A GIVER OR TAKER? I think both. But I am more of a giver. WHAT ARE YOUR NICKNAMES? Naynay and Newsee and my Grandpa's used to call me Renew.... :( WHAT IS YOUR DADS MIDDLE NAME? Akram-his fathers name WHATS YOUR MOTHERS MIDDLE NAME? Salim-her fathers name STUCK ON A DESERTED ISLAND & COULD TAKE ONE THING? my boyfriend...well ex...he makes me laugh and lol he can entertain me lmfao FAVORITE T.V. COMMERCIAL? the vonage commerical....wahoowahahoo wahhooowahhaaahooo WHO'S YOUR CELL PHONE PROVIDER? AT&T FIRST THING YOU'LL SAVE IN A FIRE? MY Cat!! Whats your favorite color? Orange and Lavender WHAT ARE THE THINGS YOU ALWAYS TAKE WITH YOU? Cell phone,gum,money,purse,credit cards,mase,book,make-up.....where am I going? Lmao WHAT DID YOU WANNA BE WHEN YOU WERE A KID? a teacher WHAT DO YOU USUALLY DO WHEN THE CLOCK TURNS 11:11? Make a wish THE COLOR OF YOUR BEDSHEET? Lavender WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT BEFORE YOU GO TO BED? Him.

Strange friend: Advice please? I live 10,000 miles away from my family and I'm married to a local here. I'm also a large lady from the UK and all these things are unique where I live. The chances of finding another person in the same boat is a million-2-1. But I did! We're the same age, our daughters were born 11 days apart, we converted to the same religion and even had similar lives in the UK b4 coming here, except she had more money than me. After we had both experienced urs of severe loneliness & depression we found each other and welcomed the friendship, but she kept me at arms length dictating to me where and when i could meet her. If I bought something for my daughter, she bought the same thing within a week. I bought a new purse and 2wks later, she had an identical one (colour & all). As a family they claimed to be broke so we gave them all sorts of stuff to help out, then they renovated their house & went on holiday (5k) & whipped out a credit card! I feel uneasy & betrayed. Wot do i do?

Aussies: Your experiences with "celeb news" scratch and win card? With my Herald Sun i got this scratch card that is being promoted by mobile entertainment company "Celeb News" (www.celebnews.com.au). I did the scratchie and sure enough, i got 3 of the same symbols which entitles me to win something. The silly catch is that i have to send my unique code on the card to a special 1900 number (hate those!) and sign up for a months worth of celebrity news for $19.80. It says it is a one off charge but I was wondering if i can find out my prize first before i text? I mean, there are some really kool prizes like digital cameras and cash and holidays etc but it could also be this crappy mobile prize pack only valued at $5.. Has anyone else got a prize? What was your experience in dealing with this company? Is it worth it? Thank you.

if you find it hard to visualise your desired future, might it be a good idea to....? ...buy an A1 sized poster card, and glue on to it bit by bit, photo's of all the things you desire....by canibalizing the photo's from for instance: holiday brochures, your favourite magazines, argos catalogue, ideal home, your own photos of your favourite people, and idyllic/favourite landscapes old etc etc...to build up a unique visual representation of what you want inyour life, that isnt there at the moment. you could build up a unique landscape nextdoor to you ideal house/garden surroundings. populated with pets you want, or wildlife you want around you. you can use the photos on packets of seeds cd covers radio times hi-fi brochures etc etc .......................................................

Perfect phone for a teenager? Im 15 and I live In Manchester! So,Im trying my best to look for a phone that has everything,Good looks good camera,V unique! It has to have blue-tooth,internet,texting,good camera,sd card,Its just got to be really good and look gorgeous! I dont want a phone thats too expensive I bought the samsung blush last year and it got stolen JUST before the summer holidays! BTW,Where can I get the lg shine brand new online or instore cheapest?

Doing Research About the Dutch Culture; If you are Dutch can you please answer the following questions!? Any information or personal expericences are much appreciated:) Thank you!!! Social Customs 1.How do people react to strangers? Friendly? Hostile? Reserved? 2.How do people greet each other? 3.What are the appropriate manners when you enter a room? Bow? Nod? Shake hands with everyone? 4.How are names used for introductions? Is it appropriate to inquire about one's occupation or family? 5.What are the attitudes toward touching? 6.How does one express appreciation for an invitation to another's home? Bring a gift? Send flowers? Write a thank-you note? Are any gifts taboo? 7.Are there any customs related to how or where one sits? 8.Are any facial expressions or gestures considered taboo? 9.How close do people stand when talking? 10.What is the attitude toward punctuality in social situations? In business situations? 11.What are acceptable eye contact patterns? 12.What gestures indicate agreement? Disagreement? 13. Are formal, ritualized interactions expected? 14.What motivates people to behave as they do? Family Life 1.What is the basic unit of social organization? Basic family? Extended family? 2.Do women work outside of the home? In what occupations? 3. What responsibilities and obligations do people have to their extended families, their neighbors, their employers or employees, and others? Housing, Clothing and Food 1.Are there differences in the kind of housing used by different social groups? Differences in location? Differences in furnishings? 2.What occasions require special clothing? 3.Are some types of clothing considered taboo? 4.What is appropriate business attire for men? For women? 5.How many times a day do people eat? 6.What types of places, food and drink are appropriate for business entertainment? Where is the seat of honor at a table? Class and Social Structure 1.Into what classes is society organized? 2.Do racial, religious or economic factors determine social status? 3.Are there any minority groups? What is their social standing? 4.Can and should people try to change the circumstances of their lives? 5.To what extent are some people in the culture considered better or superior to others? 6 Can social superiority be obtained through birth, age, good deeds, or material achievement and success? 7. In what ways does the cultures language require one to make social distinctions? 8.Do people believe they have their own unique identities that separate them from others? 9.Does the self reside in the individual or in the groups to which the individual belongs? 10. What responsibilities does the individual have to others? Political Patterns 1.Are there any immediate threats to the political survival of the country? 2.How is political power manifested? 3.What channels are used for expression of popular opinion? 4.What information media are important? 5.Is it appropriate to talk politics in social situations? 6. Activity 1.Is it important to be engaged in activities in order to be a "good member" of your culture? 2.Is the desirable pace of life fast or slow? 3.Is work very different from play? 4.Which is more important, work or play? Religion and Folk Beliefs 1.To which religious groups do people belong? 2.Do religious beliefs influence daily activities? 3.Which places have sacred value? Which objects? Which events? 4.How do religious holidays affect business activities? Economic Institutions 1.What are the country's principal products? 2.Are workers organized in unions? 3.How are businesses owned? By family units? By large public corporations? By the government? 4.What is the standard work schedule? 5.Is it appropriate to do business by telephone? 6.Is participatory management used? 7.Are there any customs related to exchanging business cards? 8.How is status shown in an organization? Private office? Secretary? Furniture? 9.Are business persons expected to socialize before conducting business? Value Systems 1.Is competitiveness or cooperation more prized? 2.Is thrift or enjoyment of the moment more valued? 3.Is politeness more important than factual honesty? 4.What are the attitudes toward education? 5.Do women own or manage businesses? If so, how are they treated? 6.Is life a series of problems to be solved or simply a collection of events to be experienced? 7.Is it possible to respect a person who is judged "bad" in one part of life but is successful in another part of life? 8. Are humans different from other animals and plants? 9.Are people in control of, subjugated by, or living in harmony with the forces of nature? 10.Do spirits of the dead inhabit and affect the human world? 11.How should time be valued and understood?

Have you heard the top 10 Dieting Rules? Top Ten Ten Rules of Dieting If you drink a diet soda with a candy bar, the calories in the candy bar are canceled out by the diet soda. (This rule also applies to mixed drinks. Example: rum and diet coke) 1. When you eat with someone else, calories don’t count if they eat more than you do. 2. When you eat with someone else, your calories don’t count if they eat more than you do. 3. Calories in food used for medicinal purposes NEVER count. Examples: hot chocolate, brandy and Sara Lee Cheesecake. 4. If you fatten everyone else around you, then you look thinner. 5. Movie related foods (Milk Duds, buttered popcorn, Junior Mints, Red Hots, Tootsie Rolls, etc.) do not have additional calories because everyone knows that movies aren’t real. 6. When preparing food, things licked off spoons and knives have no calories. Examples: peanut butter on a knife when making a sandwich; ice cream on a spoon when making a sundae; cake frosting. 7. Broken cookie pieces contain no fat. It leaks out. 8. Foods that are the the same color have the same number of calories, Examples: Spinach and pistachio ice cream; mushrooms and white chocolate. (Note: Chocolate is a universal color and may be substituted for any other food color.) 9. Calories are a unit of heat. Therefore, frozen foods have no calories. Examples include ice cream, frozen pies and Popsicles. 10. Wild Card. Each dieter may add one rule that pertains to their particular, unique situation. For example: Pork Bar-B-Q has no fat or calories on all legal holidays in Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia.

What do the girls out there think about this approach? I'm really into this girl who works at a store I'm a regular at. But the store is always really busy, so I don't really get a chance to talk to her much...I guess "really into her" isn't the case so much as she just seems pretty cool and I'd like to get to know her better and want her to notice and be interested in me as well. I do know she is the same age as me and goes to the same college I go to, and she seems sort of artsy, like myself. So I got her a really basic Christmas card, and just wrote inside "Merry Xmas!" and signed my name. In the card I left a neat bookmark I got in South Korea...seems like a kind of literary girl, so maybe she will like it. It's a pretty unique but inexpensive gift anyway. I didn't put my number or anything in there, since that seems a little lame to me. Didn't want to just up and ask her for her digits because cute girls get that all the time at work and I'm trying to be a little different. So the card sits in my truck for days, because she hasn't worked the past couple times I've been to her store. Lo and behold, there she is today. So I go in, buy a soda, we exchange the obligatory Xmas day chatter, and I ask her if she would like a Christmas card. She says she would so I go get it and hand it to her. Then I said I hope she likes it and I go on my way. She says that brightened her day and I said you're welcome. And that was that. Is she even going to open it, or did she probably just toss it in the trash? How might she react if she actually opened it? Well, thanks for any replies, and happy holidays!

adoptive siblings questions? What kind of relationship did you have with your adopted siblings once you became adults? Were they also adopted or were they bio kids of your adoptive parents? How old were they when you were adopted? My adopted siblings were all adults when I was adopted. The "sister" on my amom's side was my bioligical aunt. The "siblings" (5 of them) on my adad's side were not biologically related. When I was a child they were refered to as my brothers and sisters. They treated me as an adult would treat a much younger sibling. I got presents on birthdays and christmases. I was invited to spend weekends at their houses. A couple of them had daughters about my age so I spent more time at their houses than the others. I was closer to one brother than the others. He and his wife treated me like family and their home was my refuge during my toubled teen years when I'd fight with my amom. When I graduated high school all of that changed. The last gift or card I ever got from any of them was a graduation gift or card. After that it was like I was no longer family. They never called me, I was not invited to family holidays and if I called them, they cut it short. If I left messeges on their machines, they were never returned. It was like they were saying "Ok we played our part and helped give you a good childhood, our duty is done, have a nice life...somewhere else" I spent a couple of years in my early 20's reaching out to them only to be hurt over and over again and finally gave up on it. My adad passed away when I was 23 breaking any connection I had with his kids. My amom's daughter (my bio aunt) and I had a cool, distant relationship seeing each other at family functions until about 5 years ago. We had a falling out and only spoke again during my amom's illness and death 2 years ago. Since then I have not spoken to her nor do I care to. Today if you ask me about my siblings, I will tell you I have a brother and 2 sisters. These are my bio siblings that I was not raised with yet have a bond with. I am wondering if my situation is unique or fairly common. So other adult adoptees, what kind of relationsips do you have with your adopted sibings?

Help for Geometry Math Project? Over the Thanksgiving holidays my math teacher has assigned us a project where we have to make a design, then rotate it contiuously to form a big design/pattern across a piece of poster board. (I cannot think of a design!) I can't figure out a unique shape (That looks like something like a butterfly or flower or w/e) that I can use! Does anyone have a shape, design, or suggestion? I have to make the design from a 3x3 inch piece of note card. Please help me! It's a tessalation project! I forgot what it was called XD.

An idea for my youth group leader for the holidays? My youth group wants to do something for our leader. He is an amazing guy. He helps us each, and he's more than just a youth group leader to us. He's been threw so much in his life, including a house that just recently burned down, and that's that just one of the many troubles he's had. Regardless of it all, he puts it all aside and helps us all in special ways. He's kind of like a dad to us. We don't really know what to do, we don't really want just something normal, like a gift card or money or something. We want a special and unique idea, just because he is. Any ideas?

Help for a unique girl. Valentine gift inquiry. She loves the history. Suggestions Please? My girlfriend is REALLY into this holiday. She's not the cliche chocolates, card & flowers kind of girl. I mean the history of this holiday & how bloody & brutal it was to begin with. I think it's pretty awesome but what the HELL do you get a girl like that??? I know gifts are suppose to be unique & custom to the person's personality. I'm just asking for suggestions to get my mind rolling. A little push, you know? Thanks a bunch.

if you find it hard to visualise your desired future, might it be a good idea to....? ...buy an A1 sized poster card, and glue on to it bit by bit, photo's of all the things you desire....by canibalizing the photo's from for instance: holiday brochures, your favourite magazines, argos catalogue, ideal home, your own photos of your favourite people, and idyllic/favourite landscapes old etc etc...to build up a unique visual representation of what you want inyour life, that isnt there at the moment. you could build up a unique landscape nextdoor to you ideal house/garden surroundings. populated with pets you want, or wildlife you want around you. you can use the photos on packets of seeds cd covers radio times hi-fi brochures etc etc .......................................................

An idea for my youth group leader for the holidays? My youth group wants to do something for our leader. He is an amazing guy. He helps us each, and he's more than just a youth group leader to us. He's been threw so much in his life, including a house that just recently burned down, and that's that just one of the many troubles he's had. Regardless of it all, he puts it all aside and helps us all in special ways. He's kind of like a dad to us. We don't really know what to do, we don't really want just something normal, like a gift card or money or something. We want a special and unique idea, just because he is. Any ideas? That's a good idea, except we haven't really taken any pictures :/

The questions are tell me if you agree with the type of kiss meanings? ''Below you will find a variety of kiss types. If you find some that catch your fancy, feel free to try them'' :-) Butterfly Kiss - With your faces less than a breath away, open and close your eyelids against your partners. If done correctly, the fluttering sensation will match the one in your heart. Cheek Kiss - A friendly, "I really like you" kiss. Often the preferred kissing method of a first date. With your hands on your partner's shoulders, gently brush your lips across her cheek. Earlobe Kiss - Gently sip and suck the earlobe. Avoid louder sucking noises as ears are sensitized noise detectors. Eskimo Kiss - With your faces less than a breath apart, gently rub your noses together. Freeze Kiss (or Melt Kiss) - Experiment with this fun kiss. Put a small piece of ice in your mouth, then open mouth and kiss your partner, passing them the ice with your tongue. It's an erotic and sensual french kiss with a twist of cold. Foot Kiss - An erotic and romantic gesture. It may tickle, but relax and enjoy it! To give a toe kiss by gently suck the toes and then lightly kissing the foot. It helps to gently massage the base of the foot while performing the kiss. Forehead Kiss - The "motherly" kiss or "just friends" kiss. The forehead kiss can be a comforting kiss to anyone. Simply brush your lips lightly across the crown of their head. French Kiss - The kiss involving the tongue. Some call this the "Soul Kiss" because the life and soul are thought to pass through the mouth's breath in the exchange across tongues. Surprisingly, the French call this "The English Kiss". Fruity Kiss - Take a small piece of fruit and place between your lips (juicy fruits such as grapes, strawberries, small pieces of pineapple or mango are ideal). Kiss your partner and nibble one half of the piece of fruit while they nibble the other until it breaks in half, allowing the juice to run into your mouths. Hand Kiss - Gently raise her hand to your lips. Lightly brush your lips across the top of her hand. Historically this kiss was performed with a bow, which showed deference to a lady. Hickey Kiss - The object is not to draw blood, but to gently leave a mark that will prove your interlude was not a dream. This is often included in erotic foreplay. Mistletoe Kiss - Surprise your lover by capturing them with a gentle holiday kiss under the mistletoe. This is also a good method for shyer individuals to steal a kiss from a potential lover. Letter Kiss - Send your lover a kiss in a love letter by writing the letter x several times in a row at the bottom of a letter such as XXXXX. Neck Nibble Kiss - Gently nibble up and down your partners neck. End with a gentle kiss on the lips. Nip Kiss - This kiss can create a very erotic sensation. While kissing your partner, ever so gently nibble on their lips. You must be very careful not to bite to hard or hurt your partner. When done correctly, this kiss ignites wonderful sensations. Shoulder Kiss - Simply come from behind, embrace her, and kiss the top of her shoulder. This is a sensual, loving kiss. Sip Kiss - Take a small sip of your favorite drink. Leaving a little bit of it on your lips, kiss your partner. It is a unique way to create a sensual feeling and your partner will enjoy it. Talking Kiss - Whisper sweet nothings into your partner's mouth. If caught in the act, simply say as Chico Marx, "I wasn't kissing her. I was whispering into her mouth." Tiger Kiss - Quietly sneak up behind your partner making sure they do not know what you are going to do. Out of the blue, grab them and gently bite their neck. Make sure to get a few good growls in too. This will surely surprise them. Trickle Kiss - Take a sip of a favourite drink and trickle it slowly into partner's mouth while kissing. Tongue Sucking - A variation of the French kiss. During an open-mouth kiss gently suck on your partner's tongue (not too hard because it may hurt). Very sexy :-) Quickie Kiss - When you're in a rush. Often the nose gets it rather than the lips. Vacuum Kiss - While kissing open-mouthed, slightly suck in as if you were sucking the air from your partners mouth. This is a playful kiss. Virtual Kiss - For Internet lovers. Send an e-card or a kiss via email with this symbol: :-* . Kiss on the hand - I adore you. Kiss on the cheek - I just want to be friends. Kiss on the chin - You are cute! Kiss on the neck - I want you. Kiss on the lips - I love you. Kiss on the ears - Let's have some fun. Kiss anywhere else - You're the best. Qoute: I like kissing girls on their thighs and hips and also other places but she has to be my lady for me to do that! Kisses for all the beautiful, intelligent ladies with a good heart! Hugs and kisses for all the beautiful, intelligent ladies with a good heart! Hugs and kisses for all the beautiful, intelligent ladies with a good caring and loving heart!

Doing Research About the Dutch Culture; can you please answer the following questions!? Any information you can give me from personal experience would be much appreciated! Thank you:) Social Customs 1.How do people react to strangers? Friendly? Hostile? Reserved? 2.How do people greet each other? 3.What are the appropriate manners when you enter a room? Bow? Nod? Shake hands with everyone? 4.How are names used for introductions? Is it appropriate to inquire about one's occupation or family? 5.What are the attitudes toward touching? 6.How does one express appreciation for an invitation to another's home? Bring a gift? Send flowers? Write a thank-you note? Are any gifts taboo? 7.Are there any customs related to how or where one sits? 8.Are any facial expressions or gestures considered taboo? 9.How close do people stand when talking? 10.What is the attitude toward punctuality in social situations? In business situations? 11.What are acceptable eye contact patterns? 12.What gestures indicate agreement? Disagreement? 13. Are formal, ritualized interactions expected? 14.What motivates people to behave as they do? Family Life 1.What is the basic unit of social organization? Basic family? Extended family? 2.Do women work outside of the home? In what occupations? 3. What responsibilities and obligations do people have to their extended families, their neighbors, their employers or employees, and others? Housing, Clothing and Food 1.Are there differences in the kind of housing used by different social groups? Differences in location? Differences in furnishings? 2.What occasions require special clothing? 3.Are some types of clothing considered taboo? 4.What is appropriate business attire for men? For women? 5.How many times a day do people eat? 6.What types of places, food and drink are appropriate for business entertainment? Where is the seat of honor at a table? Class and Social Structure 1.Into what classes is society organized? 2.Do racial, religious or economic factors determine social status? 3.Are there any minority groups? What is their social standing? 4.Can and should people try to change the circumstances of their lives? 5.To what extent are some people in the culture considered better or superior to others? 6 Can social superiority be obtained through birth, age, good deeds, or material achievement and success? 7. In what ways does the cultures language require one to make social distinctions? 8.Do people believe they have their own unique identities that separate them from others? 9.Does the self reside in the individual or in the groups to which the individual belongs? 10. What responsibilities does the individual have to others? Political Patterns 1.Are there any immediate threats to the political survival of the country? 2.How is political power manifested? 3.What channels are used for expression of popular opinion? 4.What information media are important? 5.Is it appropriate to talk politics in social situations? 6. Activity 1.Is it important to be engaged in activities in order to be a "good member" of your culture? 2.Is the desirable pace of life fast or slow? 3.Is work very different from play? 4.Which is more important, work or play? Religion and Folk Beliefs 1.To which religious groups do people belong? 2.Do religious beliefs influence daily activities? 3.Which places have sacred value? Which objects? Which events? 4.How do religious holidays affect business activities? Economic Institutions 1.What are the country's principal products? 2.Are workers organized in unions? 3.How are businesses owned? By family units? By large public corporations? By the government? 4.What is the standard work schedule? 5.Is it appropriate to do business by telephone? 6.Is participatory management used? 7.Are there any customs related to exchanging business cards? 8.How is status shown in an organization? Private office? Secretary? Furniture? 9.Are business persons expected to socialize before conducting business? Value Systems 1.Is competitiveness or cooperation more prized? 2.Is thrift or enjoyment of the moment more valued? 3.Is politeness more important than factual honesty? 4.What are the attitudes toward education? 5.Do women own or manage businesses? If so, how are they treated? 6.Is life a series of problems to be solved or simply a collection of events to be experienced? 7.Is it possible to respect a person who is judged "bad" in one part of life but is successful in another part of life? 8. Are humans different from other animals and plants? 9.Are people in control of, subjugated by, or living in harmony with the forces of nature? 10.Do spirits of the dead inhabit and affect the human world? 11.How should time be valued and understood?

What Do You Think Of Disfellowshiping? Jesus gave us a loving pattern to follow in regards to talking to our brother or sister and confronting them with either (1) problems in our relationships, or (2) with regards to unconfessed sin on their part. In Matthew 18:15-18, Jesus outlines three steps to take in talking to your brother, in attempting to settle difficulties or to right the wrong. If the three steps prove unfruitful, he says, "Let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax-gatherer." Math. 18:17b In Paul's correspondence with the Corinthians, he had heard of a fellow Christian who was cohabiting with his stepmother, and he wrote the Corinthians and told them not to associate "with any so-called brother if he should be an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler--not to even eat with such a one..." (1 Cor. 5:11) Similar counsel was given regarding unruly ones in the church, who would not respond to initial counseling (2 Thes. 3:14,15). But in the case of the Corinthians, both the church and the individual failed to respond, and so Paul wrote them and said, "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." The purpose of disfellowshiping is (1) to cause the repentance of the errant Christian; (2) to remove a stumbling stone from the church, so that others would not be infected (1 Cor. 5:6,7); (3) to instill the others with fear of God's judgment for pursuing a wrong course, and (4) to keep the church free from a marred reputation with the world (Rom. 2:23,24). If the errant brother was to seek forgiveness and display heartfelt repentance for his actions and attitude, he was to be forgiven and accepted back into the church. Thus he would not be overly abused by Satan, whose authority he had temporarily come under by being cast out into the world (2 Cor. 2:10,11). The tendency for unloving elders to abuse their authority is usually checked by the church having little authority over the lives of its members. But if the church or religious organization becomes an ecclesiastical system which demands absolute subjection to its authority, the Scriptures become a powerful tool to browbeat and coerce the individual into submission, out of fear of losing something very valuable to him. Elders are therefore counseled to walk in humility (1 Peter 5:16) and to become examples to the body (1 Tim. 4:12). They are to have tender affection for others (Rom. 12:10). Yet at the same time, they are to be ready to pray for the sick (James 5:14,15), correct those stepping out of line (Gal. 6:1), stop gossip and misleading talk (1 Tim. 1:37; Titus 1:9), and to warn the flock against false doctrine and false teachers or ideas that may be present in the body (Rom. 16:17,18; Titus 3:10,11. If necessary in order to protect the flock, the offender is to be marked as bad association (2 Thess. 3:14,15) or disfellowshiped (1 Cor. 5:11-13). Considering 2 John 9, 10: In this passage, the elder John minces no words in warning against teachers who went too far beyond the gospel, in promoting new teachings which denied the real meaning of the gospel. By the end of the first century, there were already many such teachers, notably the Gnostics and Docetists. To protect the church from false teaching, the apostle makes the acceptance of visiting Christians conditional on their confession that "Christ is come in the flesh" (2 John 7). The Greek verb used is in a present continuous sense, as contrasted with 1 John 4:2 and 1 John 5:6, where Christ is spoken of as having come in the flesh (past tense perspective). Howard Marshall, in The Epistles of John, states: It seems unlikely . . . that the false teachers simply denied the reality of the incarnation. The use of the present and perfect tenses becomes significant if the point is that Jesus Christ had come and still existed "in flesh." We know that some Gnostic thinkers taught that a heavenly power (the Christ) came upon Jesus at his baptism in the form of the Spirit, but that it departed from him again after the crucifixion, so that there was no lasting union of the divine Christ with the human Jesus, and hence no real, lasting incarnation. The elder's formulation of the orthodox faith in Jesus Christ seems to be designed to exclude such interpretations of the person of Jesus. For him it was axiomatic that there had been a true incarnation, that the Word had become flesh and remained flesh. (p. 70, 71) If this interpretation is true, then those who deny that Christ presently has a glorified body of flesh would be classed among the antichrists, and not only certain unorthodox groups in the first century. Jehovah's Witnesses And Disfellowshiping Jehovah's Witnesses practice disfellowshiping, not only for unrepentant sinners, but also for a number of other reasons. Since 1973, for instance, a member who smokes is subject to disfellowshiping. So would be those who work directly in defense departments or the military, or who are employed by any kind of religious organization. Walking into a church could merit this penalty, as could taking a blood transfusion, saluting the flag (or any act of patriotism), celebrating holidays, talking to a disfellowshiped person (including relatives), disagreeing with ANY doctrinal points, and the list of punishable offenses grows greater each year. It was not always so legalistic in the Watchtower. Like many religious movements, grace abounds in the beginning; but as they get more structured, rules and regulations take the place of grace and mercy. Note this early statement by the Watchtower: We would not refuse to treat one as a brother because he did not believe the Society is the Lord's channel. If others see it in a different way, that is their privilege. There should be full liberty of conscience. WT April 1, 1920, p. 100, 101. It didn't take long, however, for the "persecuted" to become the persecutors. By 1930, those who disagreed with President Rutherford were classed as "evil slaves" and were classed with the "man of perdition," to be destroyed. (WT 1930, p. 275-281) In 1952, a distinct disfellowshiping policy was laid out. Witnesses were not to even say a greeting to disfellowshiped ones. The March 1, 1952 Watchtower said, "Those who are acquainted with the situation in the congregation should never say 'Hello' or 'Goodbye' to him. He is not welcome in our midst, we avoid him." (p. 141) By 1955, associating with a disfellowshiped person was grounds for disfellowshiping for a JW. (WT 1955, p. 607.) In January of 1972 it was declared that homosexuality and bestiality by one's marriage partner were not considered as porneia (fornication), and were therefore not grounds for divorce (Matt. 5:32). If one divorced under such conditions, he would lay himself open to adultery and could be disfellowshiped. (WT Jan. 1, 1972, p. 32.) Yet, by December of the very same year, they had reversed their stand, saying that ALL types of illicit sexual intercourse are grounds for divorce, including the above-mentioned acts. (WT December 15, 1972, p. 767, 768.) By 1974, the Governing Body entered the bedrooms of their subjects. Standards of conduct were laid out for married couples in bed. Oral or anal sex, or anything classified as a "perversion" or "unnatural practices" in the sex act would subject them to disfellowshiping. (WT November 15, 1974, p. 704. See also WT of 1974 pages 160, 484-486.) Oddly enough, in April of '74 they had seemingly relaxed the tension towards disfellowshiped persons. In the April l974 WT, for instance, on page 467, they said: Congregation elders, as well as individual members of a congregation, therefore, ought to guard against developing an attitude approaching that which some Jewish Rabbinical writers fomented towards Gentiles in viewing them as virtual enemies. The gist of the article was that disfellowshiped ones were not to be treated with unnecessary cruelty; especially members of one's family or those in obvious hardship situations. They stated that 'we don't want to be like Pharisees' who walked on the other side of the road when a Gentile was in trouble. (WT Aug. 1, 1974, p. 467.) With the Feb. 15th issue of 1978, the bedroom rules were now not to be enforced by elders, and publishers were not to be intimidated or spied on any more; although the previously banned practices were still considered unclean. (p. 32) A reversal of this trend of grace was in store for the '80's, however. With the unrest in the organization over the 1975 debacle, and now the headquarters shakeup in 1980, a hard line was taken in 1981 against any disfellowshiped or disassociated person. The Light Gets Blighter With the failure of 1975 to bring the end of the world, as well as the headquarters shakeup in 1980, a hard line was taken in 1981 against any disfellowshiped or disassociated person. Even if they were members of one's own family, they were now to be shunned except in the most necessary functions of life. (WT Sept. 15, 1981, p. 26-31 under "If a Relative is Disfellowshiped.") The Watchtower plainly says that Witnesses shouldn't even say 'hello' to a person who has left the organization. On page 25 of this magazine they say: And we all know from our experience over the years that a simple "Hello" to someone can be the first step that develops into a conversation and maybe even a friendship. Would we want to take that first step with a disfellowshiped person? In spite of the ban, however, some Witnesses were speaking out in discontent or disagreement with the Watchtower. An even greater number were subject to "witch hunts" where suspected dissenters were asked a series of questions to determine if they still believed the Society was "God's channel of communication." Many of those questioned were automatically disfellowshiped, often without a fair trial and in secret meetings. Yet, the word got out through the grapevine that all was not well with the Watchtower's doctrine. A special problem began to develop within families where one dissenter might speak to several others, and yet remain concealed from the eyes of the elders. In order to choke the grapevine, the Watchtower of January l, l983 (p. 30,31) contained a "Questions From Readers" article on "How can we assist those in our congregation who have a disfellowshiped relative?" In the first part of the article, they attack the "heart condition" of such a person, denying any possibility that they may have left the organization for a valid reason. Here is a sample quote: It is to illustrate that if someone is disfellowshiped, he must at the time have had a truly bad heart and/or been determined to pursue a God-dishonoring course. Peter said that the condition of such a person is worse than before he became a Christian; he is like "a sow that was bathed but has gone back to rolling in the mire." However, the Watchtower reluctantly acknowledged that people are human (an ever-present hindrance to their techniques). They continued: But human emotions and attachments can have a powerful effect, making it difficult for people to act in accord with the disfellowshiping decree if a relative is involved. As the article continues, those who left the organization (including relatives) were put down for interfering with the rest of the family's "happiness." Using an illustration involving three generations of a family: (1) children, (2) parents who have been disfellowshiped, and (3) the grandparents (who are typical JWs), they comment: Of course, the grandparents have to determine if some necessary family matters require limited contact with the(ir) disfellowshiped children. And they might sometimes have the grandchildren visit them. How sad, though, that by their unchristian course the children interfere with the normal pleasure that such grandparents enjoyed! However, the reader must see some vestige of human consideration in the midst of this relentless tirade. So the following sentence, humorous in its irony, is injected: We just need to go out of our way to be warm, genuinely interested and, above all, spiritual. The attack continues with the example of a couple, one of which is disfellowshiped: ". . . the expelled mate has proved that he is not the sort of person that we want to be around...So maybe a visit can be made when the disfellowshiped one is known to be out of the house. So, in other words, the Watchtower has, indeed, gone so far as to develop the attitude of the Jewish Rabbinical writers in Jesus' day and have no doubt surpassed them on occasion. Not only are Witnesses currently not to speak to anyone who may leave the organization, but they are to avoid them like the plague. Those who have seen this attitude in practice could add that JWs usually avoid even making eye contact with such persons, and might even move out of the neighborhood. This has happened in some cases. It is all part of the attitude that they must "punish" those that leave, and this punishment is almost always of a psychological nature. Due to an increase in lawsuits directed against the Watchtower over disfellowshiping since the late '70's, the Society officially stopped disfellowshiping people who voluntarily want out of the organization as of July 1, 1984. Though provision had previously been made for this in the book, Organization For Kingdom Preaching published in 1972, virtually all were disfellowshiped who disassociated from the Watchtower, regardless of the reason. Though this practice has continued in some cases since the July 1st article, others are now allowed to be considered as "disassociated," though the treatment is the same as if they were disfellowshiped. However, evil motives or wicked sins are automatically attributed to those who wish to disassociate. Notice the way the Watchtower expresses their thoughts regarding these ones: Or, as mentioned in John 6:66, occasionally a Witness on his own initiative will decide to leave the way of truth. He may even make known his decision after the committee begins to look into his wrongdoing. . . . Then it will no longer be necessary for the elders to continue their investigation. (WT 7/1/84, p. 31) The implication is that he is a "wrongdoer" either because he is leaving, or more likely, because he is involved in some kind of sin. The December 15, 1984 WT added this barb in an effort to prevent Witnesses from learning too much: We have been forewarned that there will be apostates and people who just like to have their ears tickled. Counsel such as at 2 John 9-11, 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 and 2 Timothy 3:5 allows no room for associating with those who turn away from the truth. Nor do we purchase or read their writings. (p. 19) It became obvious that too many were still questioning the Watchtower, reading literature that exposed their past, or were talking to disfellowshiped relatives. So in the July 15, 1985 WT, the Governing Body applied the injunction in 2 John 10 (against antichrists) to those that disassociate themselves. No mention at all is made of the context of this passage (verse 7 tells us that these ones deny Christ as come in the flesh). Nevertheless, the penalty meant for true apostate teachers is now applied to ANYONE disassociating himself. The article is not specific as to whether this total shunning is to be carried out with relatives living in one's own home or not. Quoting from their AID book in reference to "apostates," they say, Such ones willfully abandoning the Christian congregation thereby become part of the "antichrist." (1 John 2:18,19) A person who had willfully and formally disassociated himself from the congregation would have matched that description. (p. 31) The Witnesses are then counseled not to even say a simple greeting to such ones, and to avoid having them in their houses at all. In the case of a married mate being an "apostate," there might be concessions made, though this is not indicated here. Still, some Witnesses continued to entertain doubts and talk about these in private. In November of 1985, the Watchtower warned its readers of "sharing in the sins of others." How might they do this? By failing to tell the elders of a fellow brother or sister who is a "wrongdoer." Since being a "wrongdoer" includes disagreeing with the Watchtower, members are encouraged to tattle on friends and relatives who hold to any variation from Watchtower doctrine. If they don't, then they share in the "apostate's" sin. (WT Nov. 15, 1985, p. 19,20) The Governing Body is taking the stand that those who reject any of the teachings of the 'mother' organization are 'apostasizing' from the true Christian faith. The March 15, 1986 issue of The Watchtower even provides the reader with visual aids, as it shows a picture of a JW demonstrating how to throw 'apostate' literature away as soon as it hits the mailbox. They say, Now, what will you do if you are confronted with apostate teaching-subtle reasonings-claiming that what you believe as one of Jehovah's Witnesses is not the truth? For example, what will you do if you receive a letter or some literature, open it and see right away that it is from an apostate? Will curiosity cause you to read it, just to see what he has to say? You may even reason: "It won't affect me; I'm too strong in the truth. And, besides, if we have the truth, we have nothing to fear. The truth will stand the test." In thinking this way, some have fed their minds upon apostate reasoning and have fallen prey to serious questioning and doubt. (p. 12) Therefore, resolve in your heart that you will never even touch the poison that apostates want you to sip. (p. 20) The Governing Body is cultivating in the minds of their followers an abject fear of any dissenters. They thereby hope to cause the Witnesses to run at the sight of anything that seriously challenges their authority. In the April 1, 1986 issue of The Watchtower, an effort is made to support their disfellowshiping of those who disagree in the slightest with Watchtower teaching. They accuse the clergy of having no authority because they are not able to agree on all matters of doctrine. Then they take Galatians 1:8,9 out of context in order to "prove" that the churches are teaching a different gospel than the apostle Paul, which is not true. They quote 1 Cor. 1:10 as an attempt to "prove" that the early church was not divided, but the context of the verse proves the opposite, since the Corinthians DID have a problem with divisions. Paul never actually says they settled the differences, either. Furthermore, the church was full of divisions over minor issues according to the Revelation of John (chapter 13). A key statement is then made: Approved association with Jehovah's Witnesses requires accepting the entire range of the true teachings of the Bible, including those Scriptural beliefs that are unique to Jehovah's Witnesses. What do such beliefs include? (p. 31) They then list the beliefs necessary: 1) Their view on the issue of God's sovereignty. 2) Jesus was a preexistent creature prior to his birth. 3) The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses are the sole interpreters of the Bible. 4) Christ returned in 1914 and set up his kingdom in heaven. 5) 144,000 will go to heaven. 6) Armageddon is near, followed by the Paradise earth, where the rest of the Witnesses will live. The Governing Body is thusly confusing the issue, by painting a false picture of the New Testament church. The church was divided on many things, according to the New Testament. On the major doctrinal issues they agreed, though, such as the message of the gospel (1 Cor. 15:3,4), the incarnation of Christ (1 John 4:2; 2 John 7), and that he is the promised Messiah in the Jewish context (1 John 2:22,23). Later heresies would demand further clarifications of orthodoxy, such as the Deity of Christ, the means of salvation, etc. The orthodox churches today are in agreement on these issues. Furthermore, the Witnesses admit that, since 1918, they have been teaching a "new gospel not taught in centuries past," namely, the invisible return of Christ and setting up the kingdom in 1914 (WT 5/1/81, p.17). Therefore, they, not the churches, fall under the condemnation of Gal. 1:8,9 of preaching a different gospel, and a different Jesus (2 Cor. 11:4). As time goes on, we can expect the Watchtower to become even more paranoid regarding the questioning of their authority or doctrine. This is largely for two reasons: (1) there is an ever-increasing amount of information available that exposes their scholastic dishonesty, and (2) there is an ever-increasing number of dissenters who will not remain silent. Their only recourse (assuming they want to maintain their present absolute authority over their members) is to fortify the "Watchtower Curtain" against people defecting towards freedom. Please pray with us that this curtain will be lifted. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- reprinted from the Bethel Ministries Newsletter of Jan/Feb 1987 SIMON SAYS . . . Shun Your Own Family by Joe and Helen Ortega and Randy Watters "Simon says" is a game normally played by children; a kind of follow the leader. Sometimes, however, it is played by adults, with serious consequences. This article is about such consequences, as observed among Jehovah's Witnesses. It was not too long ago that this Newsletter ran two articles on disfellowshiping, so I apologize for any redundancy. Perhaps after reading the letters written to us in this issue, you will understand why there is a need for another article. There are some days I cannot hold back the tears when I read these letters and see the pain and suffering that so many are experiencing upon leaving the Watchtower. As we know, the Jehovah's Witness families of such ones are encouraged to treat them worse than a stranger. The outcast is to be shunned without an acknowledgment of their existence and the treatment is to be devoid of human courtesy and compassion. To those not familiar with the Watchtower organization, such treatment is shocking. Indeed, it is a far cry from the description Jesus gave on how to recognize his disciples. He said we would know them by their love (1 John 13:35). The following is an example of the treatment given to a man who resigned from the Watchtower Society when he realized they were not "the truth." His wife divorced him when he left the WT. She is still a Witness. He had a severe automobile accident and spent weeks in the hospital from extensive head injuries. He writes: My ex-wife never once let the children call to see how I was or even send me a card. Not one Jehovah's Witness ever came by or wrote a note to see how I was. However, I was blessed to have some good Christian friends call me and come by the hospital. Another letter is from a lady who was never a Jehovah's Witness. Her daughter became a Witness. The lady's "crime" was being a Christian and attending a Christian church. She writes these heartbreaking words: "She has stopped coming to see me and she will not bring my grandchildren either. Please tell me what I can do?" Still another letter states: "After I was disfellowshiped, my entire family would have nothing to do with me. I cannot see my daughter or her children. It has been 5 years." A man in Florida writes: "I have four daughters and I haven't seen them in three years. They are Jehovah's Witnesses." A young woman from Chicago wrote recently: It is hard for my children to understand why they cannot go to their grandmother's funeral. She died a Jehovah's Witness and the entire family are Witnesses. They were asked not to come because I was disfellowshiped. They really don't understand. Why does this so-called Bible-believing organization have such unscriptural and heartless rules that break up family ties? Let's reexamine their explanations from various Watchtower magazines. As far back as 1963 they said, [Disfellowshiping] serves as a powerful warning example to those in the congregation, since they will be able to see the disastrous consequences of ignoring Jehovah's laws. Paul said: "Reprove before all onlookers persons who practice sin, that the rest also may have fear."1 Tim. 5:20. (WT 7/1/63, p.411) While disfellowshiping for unrepentant gross sins is biblically proper (1 Cor. 5:13), the WT cuts off anyone who disagrees in the slightest with Watchtower policy or teaching; one of the many reasons they are recognized as a cult. (For a full treatment of the Scriptural reasons for disfellowshiping, see the March/June issues of this Newsletter.) To be disfellowshiped by the elders of the Watchtower (even over minor doctrinal issues) means being totally shunned by God as well: It is a great tragedy for one to be disfellowshiped. For this means a cutting off from Jehovah and his favor. The disfellowshiping action taken by the congregation is merely the confirmation of what has already taken place in the heavens. These visible agents of God [the elders] merely acknowledge what Jehovah has already done in heaven. (emphasis added) A disfellowshiped person is cut off from the congregation, and the congregation has nothing to do with him. Those in the congregation will not extend the hand of fellowship to this one, nor will they so much as say "Hello" or "Good-bye" to him. (ibid., p.411,412) [The members of the congregation] will not converse with such one or show him recognition in any way. If the disfellowshiped person attempts to talk to others in the congregation, they should walk away from him. In this way he will feel the full import of his sin. . . . the disfellowshiped person who wants to do what is right should inform any approaching him in innocence that he is disfellowshiped and they should not be conversing with him. (ibid., p.413; emphasis added) What about blood ties? The July 15, 1963 Watchtower (p. 443) goes into this question in detail. They consider the family who does not live under the same roof as well as the family who lives together. They insist if he does not live under the same roof, the only contact with him would be when absolutely necessary. Let's look at their words. Under the title, "Family Responsibility in Keeping Jehovah's Worship Pure" they refer to the relative not living in the home: What if a person cut off from God's congregation unexpectedly visits dedicated relatives? What should the Christian do then? If this is the first occurrence of such visit, the dedicated Christian can, if his conscience permits, carry on family courtesies on that particular occasion. However, if his conscience does not permit, he is under no obligation to do so. If courtesies are extended, though, the Christian should make it clear that this will not be made a regular practice. . . . The excommunicated relative should be made to realize that his visits are not now welcomed as they were previously when he was walking correctly with Jehovah. (WT 7/15/63, p.443,444) The Watchtower follows up with how to treat the disfellowshiped mate who is living under the same roof: If the excommunicated husband insists on offering prayer at mealtimes, the dedicated members of the household would not say "Amen" to the prayer, nor would they join hands as some have the custom, as this would be participating spiritually. They could bow their heads and offer their own silent prayer to Jehovah. (ibid., p.446) But wait! "New light" from Jehovah? Ten years later it seemed that God changed his attitude and rules regarding the cutoff ones and decided to show love and mercy to them. Note the August 1, 1974 Watchtower (p. 467) under the heading, "Maintaining a Balanced View Toward the Disfellowshiped One": Congregation elders, as well as individual members of a congregation, therefore, ought to guard against developing an attitude approaching that which some Jewish Rabbinical writers fomented towards Gentiles in viewing them as virtual enemies. It is right to hate the wrong committed by the disfellowshiped one, but it is not right to hate the person nor is it right to treat such ones in an inhumane way. (WT 8/1/74, p.467) . . . not "mixing in company" with a person, or treating such one as "a man of the nations," does not prevent us from being decent, courteous, considerate and humane. (ibid., p.468) Yet, even during this time of liberality, shunning (in the form of holding back one's affection) was practiced: . . . How, then, can parents carry out the injunction to discipline their children in harmony with God's Word when one of their children is disfellowshiped? They can still use God's Word or other publications that discuss the Bible in training the son or daughter, but they use these in a corrective manner, not as though having a spiritual `good time' with such a one in the way they could with the other children. How this is handled is for the parents to decide. This does not call for unkindness, but they do not accord such disfellowshiped son or daughter the same approved spiritual relationship granted the others. (ibid., p.470; emphasis added) One can only imagine how this "special treatment" affected such unfortunate children. Simon says . . . "Take a harder line." Reading the statements about being "courteous and humane" sounds as if God changed his mind and felt pity and compassion for the erring ones. Sadly, this was not the case. Jehovah, according to the Watchtower Society, went back to the "old light" as "new light." Once again the unloving, unfeeling hatred for those cutoff ones was brought back. The Jan. 1, 1983 Watchtower accused any who may be disfellowshiped (for whatever reason) of having a "truly bad heart" or pursuing a course of wickedness: It is to illustrate that if someone is disfellowshiped, he must at the time have had a truly bad heart and/or been determined to pursue a God-dishonoring course. Peter said that the condition of such a person is worse than before he became a Christian; he is like "a sow that was bathed but has gone back to rolling in the mire." (p.30) The Watchtower did reluctantly acknowledge that people are human. They continued: But human emotions and attachments can have a powerful effect, making it difficult for people to act in accord with the disfellowshiping decree if a relative is involved. (ibid., p.31) The attack continues with the example of a couple, one of which is disfellowshiped. When other Witnesses come to visit the couple, they must exercise caution, for . . . the expelled mate has proved that he is not the sort of person that we want to be around. . . So maybe a visit can be made when the disfellowshiped one is known to be out of the house. (ibid., p.31) While Jehovah's Witnesses would have you believe that those who are disfellowshiped are gross sinners who were rightfully disfellowshiped according to the Bible (1 Cor. 5:13; 2 John 9-11), the truth of the matter is, many of those disfellowshiped simply disagreed with some particular teaching of the organization. Raymond Franz, former member of the Watchtower's Governing Body in New York, writes: I know many persons who clearly evidence [a] concern [for truth], yet who are labeled as "apostates," "antichrists," "instruments of Satan." In case after case after case, the sole basis for such condemnation is that they could not honestly agree with all the organization's teaching or policies. (Crisis of Conscience, Atlanta: Commentary Press, 1983, p. 32) Franz describes disfellowshiping thusly: What must it mean to a mother, who has seen a baby daughter come forth from her own body, has nursed that baby, cared for it through illness, has trained the young girl through the formative years of life, living her problems with her, feeling her disappointments and sadnesses as if they were her own, shedding tears along with her tears-what must it mean to that mother to have her daughter, now an adult, suddenly reject her and do so simply because her mother sought to be true to her conscience and to God? What must it do to a father or mother to see a son or daughter marry and be told, for the same reason, that `it would be best if they did not appear at the wedding,' or know that a daughter has given birth to a child and be told that they should not come to see their grandchild? This is not imagination. Exactly those things are happening to many parents who have been associated with Jehovah's Witnesses. (ibid., p.33) Witnesses are currently instructed not to speak to anyone who may leave the organization, and are to avoid them like the plague. Those who have seen this attitude in practice could add that JWs usually avoid even making eye contact with such persons, and might even move out of the neighborhood. This has happened in some cases. It is all part of the attitude that they must "punish" those that leave, and this punishment is almost always of a psychological nature. Evil motives or wicked sins are automatically attributed to those who wish to disassociate. Notice the way the Watchtower automatically implies they are "wrongdoers": Or, as mentioned in John 6:66, occasionally a Witness on his own initiative will decide to leave the way of truth. He may even make known his decision after the committee begins to look into his wrongdoing. . . . Then it will no longer be necessary for the elders to continue their investigation. (WT 7/1/84, p. 31; emphasis added) The implication is that he is a "wrongdoer"; either because he is leaving, or more likely, because he is involved in some kind of sin. Simon Says . . . "Close Your Eyes" The December 15, 1984 WT added this barb in an effort to prevent Witnesses from learning too much: We have been forewarned that there will be apostates and people who just like to have their ears tickled. Counsel such as at 2 John 9-11, 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 and 2 Timothy 3:5 allows no room for associating with those who turn away from the truth. Nor do we purchase or read their writings. (p. 19) It became obvious that too many were still questioning the Watchtower, reading literature that exposed their past, or were talking to disfellowshiped relatives. So in the July 15, 1985 WT, the Governing Body applied the injunction in 2 John 10 (against antichrists) to those that disassociate themselves. No mention at all is made of the context of this passage (verse 7 tells us that these ones deny Christ as come in the flesh). Nevertheless, the penalty meant for true apostate teachers is now applied to ANYONE disassociating himself. The article is not specific as to whether this total shunning is to be carried out with relatives living in one's own home or not. Quoting from their AID book in reference to "apostates," they say, Such ones willfully abandoning the Christian congregation thereby become part of the "antichrist." (1 John 2:18,19) A person who had willfully and formally disassociated himself from the congregation would have matched that description.(p. 31) What Will "Simon" Say Next? With many court cases now in progress in various parts of the United States and Canada, it is hard to say exactly what will happen in the next couple of years. Most likely, the WT will continue to enforce a hard line against any communication with disfellowshiped friends or relatives. The reason is simple: The Witness will be asked to examine the history and cover-ups of the Watchtower organization, so as to reconsider their allegiance to the New York-based organization. Since an objective examination of the Watchtower organization virtually always leads to the Witness leaving, the Governing Body wants to prevent this at all costs. To lose their followers is to lose their power. If "Simon said" then, who would jump?