TheNiceLife.com Blog

How to Manage a "Friends With Benefits" Arrangement

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:56:39 GMT

Sex without love is merely healthy exercise. ~ Robert A. Heinlein

Last night, I watched the new Justin Timberlake/Mila Kunis movie Friends With Benefits.

Everything started off okay, but eventually emotions started to change and things became awkward. Of course, they eventually fall in love and live happily-ever-after, which is the typical Hollywood ending. Unfortunately, these fairy-tale endings leave women hoping that they'll be able to create a similar experience in their own lives.

Don't complicate it.

If you're lucky enough to have a FWB (Friend With Benefits) in your life, you should just leave it at that. When you start to shift your original arrangement by sprinkling the confusion-dust known as "emotions" onto your FWB-Platter, you run the chance of ruining your dessert.

In fact, in Chapter 33 of my book YTWSYF, I suggested that FWB's sign a contract that would clearly define the terms and conditions of their arrangement.

Here it is:

I, (name of participant), do hereby enter into this agreement for physical purposes only with (name of other participant).

I agree that we will take the necessary measures to prevent pregnancy and STDs (including the use of birth control and/or condoms).

This partnership has been created for the sole purpose of expressing our natural (lustful) desires. If done properly, I understand that this is intended to be nothing more than a form of mutual physical exercise.

If my feelings start to change, and I feel myself becoming romantically attached to the other participant, I will inform him/her immediately. We will then sit down and discuss the terms of this contract. If mutually desired, we will then make the proper amendments.

I understand that I cannot hold the other participant responsible for my feelings, if they do not feel the same way. I intend to remain professional while under the agreements outlined in this “for physical purposes only” contract.

I accept full responsibility for my actions throughout the duration of this contract.

I understand that this agreement can be terminated at any time, by either party, for any reason.

I commit to maintaining a professional disposition after the contract ends.

I understand that any violation of this contract could result in legal action.

Signed _____________, on this, the _____ day of 2010.

Creating a quality FWB relationship can be extremely difficult (from what I hear). Remember, it should simply be a form of mutual physical exercise. It's similar to having a work-out partner at the gym -- only a bit more invigorating. When you start going to dinners, movies, zoos, and spending the night, etc., you start to walk that fine line that leads to confusion.

Keep it simple.

Do your work-out.

Shower.

Get back to your life.

Most important rule: Never discuss your FWB arrangement with anyone!

FYI: I'm unable to process any applications for potential FWB's at this time. Stay tuned to TheNiceLife.com for any future openings.

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Diagnosing Your Facebook and Twitter Addiction

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:01:36 GMT

Every form of addiction is bad, no matter whether the narcotic be alcohol, morphine, or idealism. ~ Carl Jung

Or Facebook. Or Twitter.

I attended an NBA game last night. The Washington Wizards were hosting the New York Knicks. A total of 10 gigantic beasts roamed the floor at any given moment, looking like Roman Gladiators. These guys have ascended to the top level of their profession; they're some of the most elite athletes in the world.

Sh*t. I just took a Twitter break. I got distracted for a couple minutes. #BestSportsRivalry was trending. Hardly anyone is posting real rivalries, like Alabama vs. Auburn or the Redskins vs. Cowboys. They're all cracking jokes like: Lebron vs. His Hairline or Tiger Woods vs. Hoes or Floyd Mayweather vs. His Ego.

I put Deez vs. Nuts.

Lemme get refocused on today's blog.

So, last night I'm at the NBA game, and as I look around, I see two different couples. And BOTH of the chicks were doing the "scroll thing" on their phone, presumably checking Facebook. The look on one guy's face was priceless; he was definitely annoyed.

Not long thereafter, the chick I'm with decides to pull out her phone to do the "scroll-thingy"! I'm all like, "Iz you for real? Iz you really checking Twitter during an NBA game?"

She responded, "I was just gonna post a tweet about being here."

I'm thinking, That should've been done before you got here, or immediately afterwards.

Aw snap! I just got two Re-Tweets on my Deez vs. Nuts joke!

Think about it from a guy's perspective, ladies: We just forked over good money with the hopes of ~~getting in your pants~~ having a mutually-beneficial experience -- one that we can cherish forever, and you have the audacity to play on Facebook and Twitter in the middle of the game?!

You may have an addiction.

I know, because I, too, fear that I may have become a Social Media addict. I understand the "high" one gets when they're about to log into Facebook or Twitter. In fact, researchers at MIT concluded that Facebook and Twitter are more addictive than alcohol and cigarettes, because they fulfill two of the most important human needs: the need to belong and the need for self-presentation.

However, I tend to rationalize my addiction by saying, "I'm just marketing. Facebook and Twitter send countless people to my website; from there they might purchase my books. So, I'm not an addict; I'm just working." =)

I've often thought about Facebook and Twitter users who have nothing online to sell. I've tried to put myself in their shoes and determine whether or not I'd be on the sites, or posting status updates if I didn't have a website to send traffic to.

I doubt that I would.

My mom just stopped by for a surprise visit. We enjoyed a nice chat on the porch, as the sun beamed down. My mom has always hated the fact that I keep my hair really short; she likes guys like Elvis Presley and Johnny Depp. I've been thinking about shaving my head completely bald, and she said she's been having "nightmares about it." She continued, "I saw a guy at Food Lion the other day with a bald head, and I was like 'Oh no, that's what he'd look like.' You're a leader; you set trends. Why don't you grow it out and do something spiky with it?"

Now, that would be something funny to post to Facebook and Twitter -- at least in my own mind. But would anybody really care? I know I don't really care when people post things like:

Taking my dog to the vet today for his shots.
Going to get frozen yogurt with the BFF.
Thinking about going to Arby's for lunch.
Gotta hit the gym today -- gotta look good for bikini season!

Like, is this information really important? Is this a quality "high," for which, we sacrifice our time and precious life-moments?

You're sitting at an NBA game with an actual human/friend/lover, yet you choose to check Facebook, only to discover that Anita has posted the following: "Sweetie, if you're going to be two-faced, make sure at least one of them is pretty."

What have our lives become?

Facebook: The massive online surveillance program run by the CIA.

Always watching YOU. ;]

Evil laugh.

I love being able to share the important events of my life. I love connecting with "Friends," even if they are online friends. I love the transparency that Facebook and Twitter embeds into our society.

I just fear we're losing touch with what's really important. We're wasting too much time on Facebook, just to see that Ann's relationship status has changed from "In A Relationship" to "Single," and back again.

Is that really important? Is it really a valuable use of our time?

For non-marketers, Facebook and Twitter have become the ultimate distraction. Even for an online marketer like myself, I spend entirely too much "non-marketing" time being distracted by these Social Media outlets. How many more important tasks would you be able to accomplish if you weren't wasting hours on Facebook and Twitter?

I know I'm moments away from a 30-Day Facebook and Twitter detox; I've been thinking about it a lot lately. Maybe you should join me. When I do, I'll be sure to post a blog about it -- and link it to my Facebook and Twitter accounts. =)

Think about it: Do you even remember what your life was like before Facebook?

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Training Lazy Smokers to Properly Dispose of Their Cigarette Butts

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:49:35 GMT

If somebody invented cigarettes today, the government would not legalize them. ~ Loni Anderson

It's no secret: I'm no fan of cigarette smokers. I used to be one. However, I took control of my mind and decided to not put cigarettes in my mouth anymore, because it's an unhealthy and expensive habit.

So now I just run around preaching my self-righteous non-smoker sermons, hoping to get through to these humans who use cigarettes to pacify their moments of stress and/or anxiety. I've already written a blog explaining how cigarettes are just "Adult-Pacifiers." Whenever the baby feels a moment of stress, the baby lights up a cigarette to calm its wuddel nerves.

I understand that some folks enjoy their smoking; they've done it so long that its become a part of their routine -- just like brushing their teeth or shaving. They've trained their brain to expect this "smoke-break," and it has become an unconscious habit. They're on auto-pilot; they've forgotten that they don't have to put cigarettes in their mouth anymore. My dad is a pack-a-day smoker; so are several of my friends. They're not immune to my preaching about cigarettes.

But I'm not delusional. In Chapter 29 "You Can't Save Everybody" of my book YTWSYF, I elaborate on this truth. Some humans like their self-destructive habits. And that's fine. It's your body; you can do whatever you want with it -- as long as it doesn't affect my well-being.

That's why I'm happy that most restaurants are now completely smoke-free. Having a "Smoking" and "Non-Smoking" area under the same roof is like having a "Pissing" and "Non-Pissing" section of a swimming pool -- it just ain't gonna work.

However, we need to train the smoker-babies even further.

A couple days ago, I was meeting my pal at Hooters. As usual, he was a few minutes late, so I elected to wait outside on the bench. There were several smokers out there inhaling cancer-causing smoke into their lungs, and I just sat back and observed -- trying to remember why I felt compelled to smoke cigarettes back-in-the-day.

As I looked around, cigarette butts were scattered all over the pavement; it looked terrible.

So like, what gives cigarette smokers the notion that it's okay to flick their cigarette butts wherever they want? I mean, there are designated ashtrays outside for the proper disposal of your cigarette, yet you still choose to flick it on the pavement?

Why are you so lazy? What causes you to be so inconsiderate?

If you choose to be a slob at your own house, and want to flick cigarette butts in your own yard, that's your business. But why should restaurant patrons be subjected to your trash when they're trying to enjoy a night out? We're already forced to walk through your potentially hazardous second-hand smoke.

Grow up.

If you're going to choose to destroy your body by smoking cigarettes, you need to also be mature enough to properly dispose of your cigarette butts.

Place them in the designated ash tray.

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Mirror on the Wall: Preventing the Pending Meltdown of Lil Wayne

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:48:31 GMT

Fame and tranquility can never be bedfellows. ~ Michel de Montaigne

Weezy is cracking up; I think he's about to break. Take a look at his latest video, "Mirror."

Let's take a look at some of the lyrics. Wayne's words are in bold.

Uh, With everything happening today
You don't know whether you're coming or going
But you think that you're on your way
Life lined up on the mirror, don't blow it (Whoo!)

This portion highlights the fast-paced life of a celebrity. They think they're on the right track, but they're surrounded by drugs, and don't know whether they're "coming or going."

Look at me when I'm talking to you
You lookin' at me, but I'm lookin' through you
I see the blood in your eyes
I see the love in disguise
I see the pain hidden in your pride
I see you're not satisfied
And I don't see nobody else
I see myself
I'm lookin' at the ... mirror on the wall.

While "looking in the mirror," Wayne has to speak to his reflection as if he were talking to a child that is misbehaving: "Look at me when I'm talking to you!" It's as if he's trying to jolt himself out of his own slumber.

After he gets his own attention, he begins breaking down some uncomfortable truths: the bloodshot eyes, the love in disguise, the pain hidden in his pride, the fact that he's not satisfied, etc. In one of Wayne's other songs, he says, "I've been at the top for a while, and I ain't jumped yet." That word "yet" gives us a clue to Wayne's inner thoughts.

So, how can Wayne be "on top of the world," one of the most successful and loved rappers on Planet Earth, and still not be satisfied?

It's because he's reached such an astronomical level of success, that "normal" people put him on a pedestal, and he's unable to relate to anyone anymore. He's become an object of sorts, and this only serves to make him feel alienated and alone.

I guess that's why he says, "We are not the same, I am a Martian." He feels like an alien on his own planet; few humans can understand what it's like to be him. He has the word "MISUNDERSTOOD" tattooed on his face.

This inability to connect on an intimate level with your fellow humans makes you feel like you're a prisoner -- in solitary confinement.

I know; because I've dealt with my own brush of fame back when I was a radio star. I certainly didn't experience a worldwide scope of fame like Weezy, but the dynamics of what you experience are similar. You deal with groupies and haters. You feel increased levels of pressure to perform at high levels -- all the time. You feel compelled to accommodate requests from everyone -- hoping to make them happy. It's impossible to have a private life. You question which girls are really interested in you, and which ones are only trying to gain something from their association with you. Same thing when it comes to friends; you question their loyalty and motives.

I expand on this issue in Chapter 31 "The Prison of Fame," of my book YTWSYF.

You can also read my blog Living Behind Castle Walls: Life as a Celebrity.

Let's examine more of Wayne's lyrics.

I see the truth in your lies
I see nobody by your side
But I'm with you when you're all alone
And you correct me when I'm lookin' wrong
I see the guilt beneath the shame
I see your soul through your windowpane
I see the scars that remain
I see Wayne
I'm looking at the ... mirror on the wall.

This further illustrates how Wayne's "on-stage" persona is really just a charade; it's not the "real" him. It goes on to highlight how lonely he feels. He touches on the guilt and shame -- likely based on countless decisions to have meaningless sex with groupies. He likely feels more guilt and shame for not choosing to spend more time with his kids.

Life in the fast lane causes you to speed past what's really important.

Wayne alludes to committing suicide twice in the video. In the first instance, he makes the gesture of hanging himself with a noose made of his own dreadlocks. During the second suicide reference, he blows his brains out with his "finger-gun," splashing red paint (blood) all over the mirror. He goes on to reference Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" song. We all see the prison of fame that MJ was sentenced to; we saw how much pain he was in.

Wayne is on the same path.

He doesn't like what he sees when he looks in the mirror. He doesn't like what he's become.

He's ready for a new life.

At the end of the video, Wayne demonstrates his desire to be "born again" by being crucified -- like Jesus Christ.

And maybe that's what Wayne needs. Maybe it's time to shed his old skin -- to step out of the limelight, so he can better address his inner demons.

Maybe he should spend some time with his family, reconnecting to what's real -- instead of being brainwashed by the illusions of fame.

Maybe Wayne will find this blog. Maybe the truths contained herein will give him the courage to take radical action in a different direction.

Maybe Weezy needs to be saved from himself.

Maybe he'll rise again, better equipped to handle his position of influence.

Stay tuned. ;]

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Algebra 101 : Why The Washington Redskins Are The True Superbowl Champions

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:52:02 GMT

Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas. ~ Albert Einstein

Math is beautiful. You just can't argue with numbers. 1 + 1 will always equal 2.

Nearly one month ago, on January 9th, I predicted a Giants Superbowl victory (see my Twitter page for proof), and created the algebraic truth that I'm about to reveal today. Last night, that prophecy came true as the New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots to win Superbowl 46.

I was privileged to watch the Giants play on opening day this year, as they battled my beloved Washington Redskins on the 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks.

The Redskins crushed the Giants 28 - 14.

Fast forward to Week 15, the Redskins traveled to New York to face the Giants on their own turf. The Skins, once again, crushed the Giants by a score of 23 - 10, thereby, proving themselves to be the superior team.

Now let's enjoy my potent algebra equation.

If A is greater than B and B equals C, then A must also be greater than C.

A > B = C

A > C

Now we'll plug in the variables.

A = The Washington Redskins

B = The New York Giants

C = Superbowl Champions

Which now looks like this: The Washington Redskins [A] proved themselves to be greater than The New York Giants [B] who now call themselves Superbowl Champions [C]. Since B = C, and we understand that A is greater than B, we must rightfully assume that A (The Washington Redskins) are the TRUE Superbowl Champions.

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Rules of Engagement While Pissing at the Urinal

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:08:00 GMT

Masculinity is not something given to you, but something you gain. And you gain it by winning small battles with honor. ~ Norman Mailer

Small battles begin in the Men's room.

I'm not homophobic. I have a couple gay guys I consider friends. I don't even get my panties in a wad when they flirt with me, or try to bring me to the dark side.

Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey! Two snaps.

I'll even inject a "honey-child" into our conversations, so I can better relate to them, as I try to speak their language. One of my gay pals always insists on giving me a hug every time he sees me. It makes me feel a little weird, especially when I'm bartending, and there's a bunch of rough-and-tough bikers watching this man-hug go down.

But I'm a champion; I'm secure in my manhood, so I just roll with it.

However, there is a certain etiquette that needs to practiced while in the Men's bathroom. And this message applies to straight guys, because they tend to do it all the time.

When I'm standing at the urinal -- penis in hand -- this isn't the time to strike up a conversation. It's just plain weird. And uncomfortable.

The only form of communication that's acceptable while in the Men's room, with penis in hand, is this:

"Wuddup."

And that "Wuddup" is a statement; not a question. It's simply a salutation -- an acknowledgment of the other person. The only acceptable response is a reciprocated "Wuddup."

You are permitted to substitute any greeting of your choice, such as "Hey Bud," or "Good Morning." And that's only if you must say anything at all. An even more appropriate form of bathroom etiquette would be total silence.

Walk in. Approach the urinal. Pull out your junk. Stare straight ahead. Release the urine. Reposition your junk. Walk to the sink. Wash hands with soap. Dry hands. Exit bathroom.

No talking is required.

The time for two men to discuss politics, hot chicks, football, or anything else IS NOT when they are both holding their naked penises.

That is all.

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Drunk Octopus Sobers Up and Learns the Art of Fighting Without Fighting

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:10:36 GMT

The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting. ~ Sun Tzu

I used to be a hot-head. In my early twenties, my ego caused me to find myself in scuffles at the drop of the wrong word. Naturally, there was usually a woman around, and she was the cause of the fight. Either the dude was disrespectful to my girl, or there was a beef over a particular girl. The usual macho-man nonsense.

During the course of this phase, I battled some beasts. Nearly every opponent towered over me. Because of this, my fear of fighting gradually subsided. I knew that I would be a formidable opponent to whomever decided to challenge me to a duel. And the funny thing is this: Once you lose your fear of fighting any given opponent, you also lose your desire to fight.

You see, humans who find themselves in physical altercations are merely trying to prove to themselves (and others) that they aren't afraid. The only reason one would feel compelled to "prove" they weren't afraid is if they had some fear or doubt about their ability to defeat a particular opponent.

Hence, they decide to fight, in order to make this "lack of fear" known. And when you put alcohol into the mix, one's ability to rationally "use his mind" to defeat the opponent without fighting becomes much more challenging.

Enter Drunk Octopus.

Just look at Drunk Octupus' eyes. He's definitely had one-too-many. The alcohol has supercharged his ego, and now he feels invincible. However, Drunk Octopus has forgotten that alcohol slows the body's reflexes. It also slows the mind. He has now put himself in the position to lose two different battles. The first being the battle of the mind. Drunk Octopus won't be able to think rationally, nor resist the ego's temptation to avoid a physical confrontation. When you choose to engage in a physical altercation, you put yourself at serious risk for a number of life-changing consequences.

Permanent bodily harm to yourself or others
Financial liability to anyone who becomes injured based on your actions
Incarceration -- which could lead to a loss of job and income
Permanent stain on your criminal record -- leading to fewer opportunities

This list of possible negative outcomes goes on and on.

The second battle Drunk Octopus stands to lose is the physical one. Because of his slowed reactions (due to the alcohol) he has dramatically increased his chances of being seriously injured during the fight.

That's why it's of the utmost importance to try and avoid physical altercations. Bruce Lee, one of my favorite mentors, and one of the most advanced Martial Artists to ever walk the planet, often spoke and wrote about the idea being projected by Sun Tzu. He called it the "Art of Fighting Without Fighting," and he captured the idea in his movie Enter The Dragon.

Enjoy the clip below.

Basically, there was a "hot-tempered" knucklehead who felt he was a better fighter than Lee. He kept picking with Lee, until he finally agreed to a duel. They were both on a big boat at the time, so Lee tells the bully he can only demonstrate his style, which he explains is "The Art of Fighting Without Fighting" while on a nearby island -- which would give them more room.

The bully agrees to go to the island in order to engage Lee in battle.

Lee then asks the bully to get into a dinghy (smaller boat) and begins to lower him down into the water. Lee is supposed to, then, lower himself into the boat, where they will sail to the island for the duel. After the dinghy and bully are safely in the water, Lee then begins releasing the rope, leaving the stunned bully to float off into the sea -- all by himself.

Bully defeated. The art of fighting without fighting.

This is best administered with a sober mindset. =)

Let the wisdom in today's blog remind you to always try to defeat your opponents with your mind -- not your muscle.

Black History Month Only Serves to Perpetuate More Racism

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:25:06 GMT

If you believe discrimination exists, it will. ~ Anthony J. D'Angelo

Happy February! It's time to piss off my Black friends with my annual rant about how Black History Month is detrimental to American progress.

It all started last February, when I sent text messages to my Black friends (and posted the question on Facebook) asking if it would be cool to give them buckets of fried chicken for Black History Month. It sparked a debate with a Black chick that I sang with in my high school talent show. She was "offended." I systematically destroyed her argument.

She then de-friended me on Facebook.

How rude.

I mean, I grew up on Jodeci and TuPac. I keeps it real, Shawdy. How you gonna de-friend me?

There's me at the dump, the day I had to part with my TuPac picture, because it cracked while I was moving. It used to hang just above my spacious bath-tub, so I could reflect on Pac's spirit while I read books and enjoyed my bubble baths. R.I.P., homie.

And just the other day, a beautiful Black Princess with silky-smooth cocoa butter skin (that I've shared intimate moments with) told me she hadn't visited my website since that post! Iz you for real, child?!

Don't make me Stephanie Tanner from Full House you, too!

Sometimes, the truth hurts. However, as covered in Chapter 21 "Spiritual Hydrogen Peroxide" of my book Your Truth Will Set You Free, sometimes we need to project uncomfortable truths in order to fully heal the wounds that exist. I expand on this issue in Chapter 11 "Truth Heals," of my book Follow The White Rabbit.

After you're done reading this blog, read the blog that started the entire debate, entitled, "Why Can't The White Man Crack Jokes on Black Folks?"

I mean, for realz, son ... Black comedians be crackin' jokes on The White Man all the time, Yo. I'm just tryin' to gets mine, Shawdy ... tryin' ta gets mine. Ya feel me? Ya nah'm sayin'?

White men can't jump or dance. Black folks like fried chicken and grape Kool-Aid.

One is funny. The other is offensive.

Where my rights iz, Cousin? Why don't I have the same joke-crackin' opportunities as Chris Rock or Martin Lawrence?

Sh*t ain't fair, whoadie.

Now let's get serious.

When we, as a nation, choose to celebrate one particular race during the month of February, all we're doing is discriminating against all the other ones. I supported affirmative-action back in the 80's and 90's. I understood that the scales needed to be balanced, and I was an apologist against the misdeeds of my White ancestors.

However, when Barack Obama, a Black man, was elected President of the United States, Dr. King's dream of racial equality was achieved here in America. And to continue to promote the special treatment of one particular race (African-American) above all the others, is a disservice to Dr. King's legacy. It essentially says that all of Dr. King's work -- and all the progress we've made because of it -- was for naught. It says, "We will never be able to achieve his dream."

I mean, if a Black man is the most powerful man in the world, and people are still saying "sh*t ain't fair," then what will it take before they're satisfied?

There's a 2008 picture of Dr. King and myself at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. To commemorate his legacy, I composed a blog entitled, "Pulling the Race Card in 2012 is an Insult to Dr. King's Dream."

It essentially says, "Sorry, Dr. King, your hard-work will forever remain pointless, because I'm going to choose to continue to play the victim-role because it has worked so easily for me in the past. I'll just continue to blame all my problems on racial inequality, even though a Black man is President of the United States. I know White folks will cower when I mention anything about discrimination, so I'll continue to use that to my advantage."

Dr. King would be ashamed of such selfish, irresponsible, and inappropriate activity.

And you know it.

It was Dr. King that said, "A man can't ride your back unless it's bent."

He would tell you stand up -- to stop making excuses and deflecting responsibility of your life unto others. He would point to all the successful Black people on the planet and encourage you to follow in their footsteps.

When we choose to celebrate one race, while ignoring all the others, aren't we simply promoting a new form of discrimination? Can you imagine how a 7-year-old Non-Black kid sees the world?

This kid was 4 years old when Barack Obama was elected president. All she's ever known is a Black president. Then she turns on the TV to see Oprah Winfrey with her own network. She flips to BET to see a television station that promotes "Black Entertainment Television." She tunes in to radio stations owned by Radio One that openly promote "targeting African-American consumers." Their websites also promote something called "Black Planet Universe."

WTF?

What's a Black Planet Universe? Are White people allowed? What about Asians and Hispanics? If there was a radio company that only employed White disc-jockeys, targeted White consumers, and had something crazy like "White Planet Universe" on their website, would the sh*t be hitting the fan?

Of course it would.

And it's unfair.

Which brings us to the point of today's sermon: When we choose to focus on the past, we will never evolve out of it; we'll be doomed to continue repeating it.

In fact, the above-mentioned elements, in conjunction with ideas like Black History Month are proof that we're still promoting discrimination and racism -- except we've reversed the roles.

Black folks who live in 2012 shouldn't be afforded special privileges based on the sins of White folks from 50 to 400 years ago. Why would you even want such privileges? I would rather earn my standing based on my own merits and hard work.

In response to a tweet about why I don't think we should continue promoting Black History Month, because it seems racist, one of my Black followers said, "Black History Month is not racist. It's helping a certain race understand themselves better and where they originate from."

Well, if that's the case, shouldn't we delegate a month for every race, so they can learn about themselves? March will be Asian History Month. April will be Hispanic History Month. May will be Indian (Hindu) History Month. June will be Indian (Native American) History Month. July will be Mixed Folks History Month. And I guess we'll give ol Whitey the month of August.

Of course that idea sounds ridiculous. No one race should have a month dedicated to their history. If an individual wants to learn about his history, they can do that anytime they want. The Internet is at their disposal. They'll just have to get off Facebook and Twitter long enough to do a little research.

In 2012, it's an individual's personal responsibility to learn about his heritage; it's not the government's job to force-feed the rest of the population with it. It's not the government's job to give preferential treatment to one group at the peril of others.

Cuz that's racist, Yo.

I ax you: What's the difference between Black Only history months and White Only water fountains?

If we are to truly honor the legacy of Dr. King, we need to stop sponsoring such prejudiced practices. We need to celebrate the actualization of his dream by focusing on where were are NOW -- instead of spending time remembering the ugly past from which we came.

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And don't forget to scroll up and read the other blogs mentioned in this post.

The Danger of Watching Horror Movies and Crime Scene Shows

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:08:06 GMT

Too many of us are not living our dreams because we are living our fears. ~ Les Brown

One of my favorite humans told me she had a nightmare last night. Michael Myers was trying to stab her brother, and she stepped in to block the knife, which cut her hand in several places.

"Have you ever seen the Halloween movies?" she asked.

"I know what it is, but I've never watched it. I don't watch crap like that," I responded.

I then gave my sermon on "why it's not a good idea to watch horror movies or crime scene investigation type television shows."

I continued, "Do you think you would've had a nightmare about Michael Myers trying to stab your brother if you had never watched the Halloween movies?"

"No," chirped the angel.

The subconscious mind is like a fertile garden, and it cultivates the seeds that you choose to plant during your conscious moments. That's why I never watch horror movies or television shows that depict murder or other crimes.

Why would you want to program your mind to constantly be on edge -- thinking fearful thoughts? If you believe the theory that "we become what we think about," then it seems logical to assume that you'll end up creating negative life-experiences, based on the fearful thoughts you hold in your subconscious realm.

So the key is to become conscious of what you're planting into your subconscious.

And that's what I'm doing here; I'm making you conscious of the importance of only planting positive seeds into your subconscious. Your subconscious realm is incredibly important. It's what feeds your conscious mind.

The subconscious mind is the seed. The conscious mind is the fruit; it becomes an extension of the seed.

Take a look at that peach; the seed even looks like a brain! The delicious fruit is merely an extension of the "brain." The deliciousness (or bitterness) of your life-experience will simply be a reflection of the seeds you choose to plant.

My suggestion to you is to stop watching shows on television that program your mind with fearful thoughts. Watching images of murder, rape, violence, gossip, rage, material-obsession and other emotional-instability ... will plant those types of seeds into the fertile soil of your subconscious.

Have you ever wondered why they call it a "television program?" It's because your mind is being programmed.

You may not realize it (at the conscious level), but these types of negative subconscious seeds can affect your life in subtle ways, causing you to be fearful of people who don't deserve it. It could affect your ability to cultivate healthy friendships and relationships, based on your default (subconscious) programming -- aka the images you're choosing to allow into your mind.

And it's not just horror movies, but could also include the poison that can be seen (ingested) by watching reality TV. When you choose to watch the nonsense projected by the casts of the Housewives of Beverly Hills, or the cunning ways of the contestants on The Bachelor or Survivor, it could cause you to wrongly assume that all humans operate in such selfish ways.

In turn, you project these attributes onto the "real" people in your "real" life.

That's unfair to them, and it's unfair to you. You both miss out on the opportunity to create harmonious, mutually-beneficial relationships. This is because, at the subconscious level, you're scared.

Fear is your default program.

Remember to monitor what you choose to allow into the fertile soil of your subconscious. Your subconscious mind affects your conscious mind. Your conscious mind affects your decision-making. Your decisions determine your destiny (as highlighted in Chapter 37 of my book FTWR).

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Joel Osteen Haters Work For Mr. Satan

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:44:58 GMT

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ~ James 3:14-15

Dear Angry Pastors and Other Self-Righteous Humans,

Why iz y'all hatin' on Joel Osteen? Iz you workin' for the Devil? How much does you get paid for your demonic service? Why you got so much bitter jealousy in your heart? Iz you blinded by your own selfish ambition to somehow prove your "spiritual superiority" by downgrading the beautiful message of my boy Pastor Joel?

So like, all-of-a-sudden, YOU are the one the world should look to for God's Word? YOU are God's chosen vessel to distribute His latest thoughts and feelings? And since Brother Joel preaches an uplifting message filled with hope and healing, you get your panties in a wad because YOU believe he should be preaching a message of condemnation and fear?

And then you brainwash your poor kids (and followers) into believing this stuff? WTF is wrong with you, man?

In the year 2020, when I'm President of the United States, this type of poisonous brain-washing will be considered child-abuse, and you will go directly to jail without passing "GO" to collect your $200.

You will then sit in jail until my highly-skilled, trained professionals determine you are no longer a threat to the minds of your fellow humans. Unfortunately, this type of fearful religious thinking becomes embedded in the mind -- like termites -- until it destroys a mind's healthy foundation. The fearful, narcissistic delusions of self-righteousness prevent one from ever thinking clearly again.

So you will likely stay there forever, because of your own demonic, hateful spirit.

This is Hell.

Your only chance of salvation comes in the form of the true message of Christ: One that teaches you to love your neighbor as yourself. It preaches tolerance and forgiveness. It demonstrates compassion and empathy. It encourages hope and unconditional love.

It knows not hatred and fear, my beloved brothers and sisters.

Behold: This is the message projected by Joel Osteen.

I am very well-pleased with Brother Osteen; he will sit at my right hand aboard my Spaceship, as we ascend from Planet Earth into the Heavens, in the year 2033.

And in case you were wondering, Nephew Timmy will be there as well.

However, all you fools who have bitterness and jealousy in your hearts will not receive an invite. You will, like, totally -- be de-friended by then. You will be left on Earth to fight amongst your evil selves, because that's what you like to do anyways.

This will be your Hell.

Therefore, my brethren, I encourage you to awaken from your hateful slumber. Learn to love the message of Brother Joel Osteen, for his message is the key to personal peace and collective harmony.

And there are many others projecting the same beautiful message. Absorb their positive seeds. Allow them to flourish into a beautiful garden. Eat the delicious fruit of your garden, where it will nourish your soul forevermore.

I met Joel a few years ago, when he was doing a book-signing in Birmingham. I gave him a copy of my first book, Have A Nice Life: My Book For Your Life. He was just as friendly and pleasant as he is on television. I'm an excellent judge of character, and I believe Joel to be a compassionate, angel-dumpling sent from the Heavens above. I don't believe there is a mean-spirited or deceptive bone in his body.

I vouch for Joel Osteen.

And I believe if you start watching his message every Sunday, you'll see a radical shift in your perspective, which will create a profound transformation in your life. Even if you're a rational skeptic -- like me -- who doesn't believe all the crazy things that can be found in religion.

Check your local listings for his weekly broadcast, which is shown on multiple channels on Sunday and Monday. Get started with the video below.

Discover the Champion in you.

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Who's Yo Momma? Transforming Negative Addictions Into Positive Ones

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:59:13 GMT

Habits are the daughters of action, but then they nurse their mother, and produce daughters after her image, but far more beautiful and prosperous. ~ Jeremy Taylor

Did you grasp the beauty of that quotation?

Mother = Action

Daughter = Habits

Actions create habits. The habits then re-energize (nurse) the Mother, which in turn, influences the Daughter, who then "becomes" the Mother -- albeit more beautiful and prosperous. The Daughter becomes a more beautiful version of her Mother, because she's been guided by the wisdom and experience of her Mother.

The question we must ask ourselves is this: Who's Yo Momma?

In other words, what actions are the guiding force of your life? Whose "model" do you follow? Is it alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, fast food, anger, bitterness, and jealousy? Are these the attributes of your "Mother"? Are these the characteristics of your peers?

Then that's what you'll become.

If you want to transform your life, you have to pick a new "Mother." You have to quit following in the footsteps of the wrong people.

You have to exchange your negative addictions for positive addictions.

Let's face it, if you have an "addictive" personality, it's pretty much a part of your DNA -- it's who you are. Your brain is genetically compelled to be compulsive about things. A lot of these types fall into negative compulsions: they drink too much, smoke a pack a day, gamble, shop, deal with anxiety and/or depression (compulsive thinking), hoarding (compulsive procrastination and/or fear), etc.

Compulsive behaviors usually run on auto-pilot; they've become a person's daily habits. However, we all have the power of conscious choice -- the power to choose new actions. After a period of time (in as little as 21 days), the new actions will become our new habits.

The Mother will begin producing a new type of Daughter.

Have you ever told yourself any of the following:

I'm not smoking another cigarette today!
No matter what, I'm not going to drink alcohol today.
I'm going to get started on ________ today.

The list can go on and on.

I've certainly said those things. And my compulsive behavior still exists. But now, I say things like, "I'm NOT going to the gym today. I've been every day this week." Only to find myself at the gym anyway. It's not a good idea to lift weights every day, but I still manage to find ways to improve myself -- usually by working my abs or running a mile on the treadmill.

So, the compulsion still exists, I've simply shifted my focus to positive "addictions," which have replaced my negative ones.

Learn to become addicted to your health and overall well-being.

Transform your cigarette break into a 3-minute meditation focused on how your lungs are in the process of healing themselves. Think about the restoration of your pearly whites. Think about being able to run a mile without wheezing. Think about living as long as your kids.

Negative compulsion becomes a positive compulsion.

Disorganization becomes cleanliness, Windex, furniture polish, and vacuuming.

Alcohol becomes water.

Greasy cheeseburgers become fruits and vegetables.

My pal Tim Ferriss even recommends one "cheat-day" per week. Eat and drink all the crap you want. You'll usually end up feeling so sluggish, that it'll motivate you to regain your focus the following day(s).

I recommend a "30-Day Challenge," in which, you train yourself to consistently take action in a particular direction. This could be a "no meat, no alcohol, no fast food, no soda, or no shopping" challenge. It could be a "100 sit-ups, 1/2 mile daily walk, or 10 minute meditation per day" challenge.

In whichever areas you know you need to improve -- do it. Just for 30 days. Then go back to your old ways. Usually, after 30 days, your perspective has been radically shifted, and you're less likely to return to your old habits. Scroll down and visit the 30-Day Challenge category to the right -----> to see some of my own breakthroughs.

It's up to you. We become what we think about. Our actions determine our habits. Our habits determine our quality of life.

Transform your thinking -- transform your life. =]

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The Little Things Are The Big Things

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:45:51 GMT

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things. ~ Robert Brault

I'm "on vacation" right now in Alabama. I'm really not in the mood to do the daily blog. But then I'm forced to think of the tears. The salty tears, dripping down the precious cheeks of TheNiceLife.com readers.

The return of the daily blog in 2012 has become habit-forming. My cleverly structured words into sentences and paragraphs has created an addiction of sorts. I'm the dealer; you're the junkie.

Unfortunately, I don't have my dry-erase board here in Alabama. I keep all my potential blog topics on the board, and I review the board whenever I'm bored. This helps me stay inspired with what I'll be writing about the following day.

Just imagine how much fun it would be to live with me! Smartass Dry-Erase board reminders are always a joy to find. =)

As I was setting up shop here at Barnes & Noble, I embarked on a magical journey to my local restroom, where I found a number of inspirational quotations hanging on the wall. This is where I saw today's quotation:

All-too-often humans waste their time and energy on things that don't really matter. And that's exactly what I'm doing right now -- with this blog entry.

I'm such a disciplined perfectionist, that I often feel the need to honor my commitments, just for the sake of honoring a commitment. And that's not a bad quality to have. However, when the quality of the product suffers, then it can be a liability.

I feel like I'm simply "forcing" today's blog entry just for the sake of "getting it done." I'm confident a lot of my fellow "perfectionists" can relate to what I'm talking about.

While I'm vacationing in Alabama, I should be focusing my energy on spending time with my old friends, like Grandpa Bill (see below), and dealing with the other work-related elements associated with my trip.

These are the "little-big things." In the larger scheme of things, they're what really matters. My energy should be expended in these areas -- not worrying about creating a blog entry just for the sake of creating a blog entry. I'm much more efficient at writing when I'm doing it in the comfort of my own home, while sipping my coffee, after a delicious night's sleep on my pillow-top mattress.

In other words, I need to stop being so hard on myself.

And you should too.

With that being said, I'm going to fully enjoy the remainder of my "work-vacation" without the daily mental frustration associated with creating a new blog entry.

The daily blog will return on Friday, after I return to Virginia. You're only going to be without my inspirational words for the next two days. You're gonna be okay. You can do this.

I hope you enjoyed reading this crappy blog entry today.

Click HERE for an instant Kindle, i-Pad, or Smartphone download of Your Truth Will Set You Free.

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Joe Paterno: A Lesson in the Destructive Power of Guilt

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:50:09 GMT

Guilt upon the conscience, like rust upon iron, both defiles and consumes it, gnawing and creeping into it, as that does which at last eats out the very heart and substance of the metal. ~ Bishop Robert South

Former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno passed away yesterday, just three months after an embarrassing sex scandal rocked Happy Valley. The official cause of death was lung cancer. Paterno was diagnosed with the disease on November 18th, and died on January 22nd -- just 65 days after the diagnosis.

Just three months ago, Paterno was still head coach of Penn State. The Nittany Lions were having a great season -- headed to a bowl game.

So what happened?

In the words of Joe Paterno, "It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more."

In other words: GUILT.

On the ten-hour drive from Virginia to Alabama yesterday, I was listening to all the Sports Radio talk shows. Most of the announcers and former Penn State players were saying Paterno died "from a broken heart." They were blaming the Penn State Board of Trustees for the way they handled the firing of Paterno. "They took away his reason for living," they cried. The Penn State Alumni were essentially saying the Board gave Paterno the death sentence.

But was being fired as Penn State football coach what, ultimately, led to the deterioration of Joe Paterno? I mean, he still had his wife, children, and grandchildren to "live" for. He was still a Penn State icon, and continued to be loved by most folks in Happy Valley. He had already stated his desire to retire at the end of the season; so he was already mentally preparing for his final three games as head coach.

Not coaching football wasn't what killed Joe Paterno.

Guilt and shame killed Joe Paterno.

For decades, Joe Paterno was a beloved father-figure on the Penn State campus; it's the only reality he knew. Then, in an instant, everything changed. Paterno took pride in running a program of integrity -- supposedly placing morals and personal values ahead of just winning football games. However, after news of the sex scandal broke, the public was able to see the Wizard behind the curtain. Penn State fans can rationalize all they want, but the bottom line is the bottom line, even in the words of Joe Paterno:

He should have done more.

It's always the "should-haves" that we regret.

I should have spent more time with my loved one.
I should have just "gone for it."
I should have told him/her how I really felt.
I should have appreciated what I had.
I should have told the truth.
I should have done more.

Had Joe Paterno "done more" back in 2002, when he first heard of the sex abuse allegations, Jerry Sandusky would've taken the hit of bad publicity, and Penn State would've been seen as an institution with integrity and morals, who "did the right thing" by ensuring Sandusky was arrested and charged. Sandusky would've been held accountable for his own decisions, would've been fired and completely removed from the Penn State campus, and Joe Paterno's legacy would've remained untarnished.

Unfortunately, that's not what happened. Penn State and Joe Paterno "looked the other way," and the abuse was allowed to continue. Paterno knew they were making the wrong decision. Alas, integrity didn't really seem to be the foundation of Penn State football. Actions speak louder than words, and it seems as though the untarnished image of Penn State football took precedence over "doing the right thing."

We're all responsible for the seeds we plant. Years ago, Joe Paterno and Penn State University made a decision to "look the other way," in relation to a deplorable act. Eventually, those seeds came to harvest. And the shame it brought upon the university was unprecedented.

They should have done more.

How many "should-haves" are you dealing with today? How many of these "should-haves" are within your capacity to "fix"? What are you going to do to fix them?

Don't let the destructive power of guilt consume you.

Fix the problem if you can, or make an appointment to talk with a professional.

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Atheists Who Love Jesus: Can They Experience the Kingdom of Heaven?

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:53:30 GMT

The truth always gets ruined when somebody tries to make a religion out of it. ~ Jon-Paul Diefenbach

I love Jesus. He spoke truth. I love truth. I love truth so much, I have the word tattooed on my arm.

So if there was any previous doubt regarding my appreciation for TRUTH in all forms, that settles it. Cuz let's face it: If somebody has something tatted on them, you know they mean serious business.

Take that guy. If you were intoxicated at a local bar one Friday, and made the terrible mistake of thinking he was, in any way, Miss Hot Water, you'd be sadly mistaken. Because it's clearly evident -- thanks to his tattoos -- that he's Mr. Cool Ice.

So step off.

Let's get back to me me me me me (cuz it's always about me), and my fascination with all things TRUTH. In the video below, Ricky Gervais expresses his love for TRUTH by saying, "The truth doesn't hurt. Whatever it is. It's better to know the truth."

Ricky was projecting his lack of belief in a God. At the same time, he professes his love for Jesus. Which brings us to the point of today's blog:

Can Atheists love Jesus?

I believe they can.

One doesn't have to believe in a heavenly Santa Claus who grants wishes based on one's behavior in order to practice the tenets of Jesus' teachings. Jesus taught us the following things:

To be nice your neighbor
To demonstrate compassion
To treat others as you would want to be treated
To show tolerance to those who are different
To not make excuses or play the sympathy card
To forgive those that hurt you

Isn't it possible to implement these strategies into your daily life without believing in a heavenly Santa Claus who tends to be very inconsistent about granting prayers? A Santa Claus that also tends to allow bad things to happen to good people? Isn't it possible to create a heavenly experience right now, on planet Earth, by choosing a life where the above-mentioned qualities are exemplified by every human?

Why should we gamble on the after-life, hoping we'll "live forever with God" in heaven? In my opinion, heaven is available to all of us -- right now.

In every single, eternal moment of NOW.

NOW is the only thing that's real. The past doesn't exist. The future doesn't exist.

NOW is all we have.

NOW is all we will ever have.

Didn't Jesus teach us that the "kingdom of heaven is at hand"? Didn't he teach us that "the kingdom of heaven is within"?

So why are you waiting? Cultivate your kingdom right NOW. It's your responsibility. Stop being lazy and expecting "God" to have heaven waiting for you when you die.

A flashlight with dead batteries shines no light. What if there is no afterlife? What if, when your batteries finally die, that's it. No more light for you.

Would you have wasted the life you were given?

All humans can experience the kingdom of heaven. It doesn't matter what your beliefs are. Atheist, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Mormon, Agnostic, Hindu, etc.

Jesus tried to help us understand his "human-nature." In truth, I think he was a little frustrated with everyone's pre-determined conclusion that he was the "Son of God." Jesus was about humility. Claiming that somebody is the "Son of God" certainly isn't the most humble characterization. That's why he made it a point to also describe himself as the "Son of Man."

I mean, think about the pressure he must have felt, as a child. "Uhh, yeah, little Jesus. All these irrational, superstitious humans in the village have decided that you're their Savior -- the Son of God Almighty. So like, you need to live up to the expectations. Now get out there and save the world, little buddy!"

So, as a child, before he knew better, he bought into the "Son of God" stuff. As he grew in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52), he started to understand his connection to humanity -- and tried to distance himself from the "Son of God" hype by trying to remind (reprogram the minds) his fellow humans. "Hey, you crazy fools, I'm a human-being! I'm the son of man! As in, a hu-MAN!"

In my opinion, Jesus was a wonderful teacher who provided us with the tools required to create a fulfilling life -- on the inside.

And that's available to all of us. =)

Jesus, in Luke 6:37, says, "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."

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Learning to Think Rationally About the Existence of God

brandon@brandonmerhout.com (Brandon Merhout aka NN) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:20:52 GMT

Faith is believing something you know ain't true. ~ Mark Twain

You've been disappointed by your faith. You've had countless prayers go unanswered. You've had a hard time believing many of the things projected by religion: talking snakes, burning bushes, walking on water, magic underpants, riding magic horses, turning one piece of bread into thousands, water to wine, etc.

You've doubted.

You've thought it all sounded a little crazy.

Don't lie to yourself.

Keeps it real, son.

Even after being disappointed time after time, you still chose to make excuses for your religion. "Well, God just answers prayers in His own timing. Sometimes the answer is 'yes,' sometimes the answer is 'no,' and sometimes the answer is 'wait.'"

How courteous of you!

So like, what's the point of praying? You claim that God gives you "free will," yet you also claim that God's Will supersedes your individual free will. Well, if that's the case, then your "free will" is pointless.

I mean, why pray if you don't get what you pray for? You're brainwashed into believing that "anything you pray for and believe in your heart you'll receive it, will be given to you."

So, you pray. You believe. You don't receive.

WTF, man?

Let's move to the sad story that inspired this blog.

Two days ago, Ariane Noelle Patterson, a college student at North Carolina's Gardner-Webb University, was celebrating her 21st birthday. Gardner-Webb is a Christian University, which helps us understand a bit about Miss Patterson. That morning she tweeted the following:

"Thank you God for another year of life."

Miss Patterson then went to her religion class at the Boiling Springs school, where she collapsed and died.

Thoughts of compassion and sympathy are with her family and friends.

But what are the conclusions we can draw from this tragedy? Religious-minded humans will likely rationalize the following:

"Ariane is in a better place. The Lord called her home on her birthday. What better birthday present could she receive than to be in the arms of Jesus? Hallelujah."

I know this is what they'll say, because I used to rationalize the same types of things when I was religious-minded. I spent my early twenties studying the various religions, and had a pretty hard-core Christian streak for several years.

Then I started reading the works of Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, and they were slowly able to help me awaken from the religious slumber. When I first tried reading Hawkins' book The God Delusion, I wasn't ready for it. I couldn't accept the truth:

That everything I thought I knew about reality was distorted.

I couldn't accept that I made excuses and rationalizations for reality in order to make it fit the model of reality, of which, I was "supposed" to believe.

So I put the book down; I clung to my faith -- I held on to my delusional belief-structure.

About a year later, I picked it up again. This time, everything started to click. I finally gave myself permission to release the delusional belief structure that I desperately wanted to believe in. It gives us a sense of comfort to believe fairy-tales. You know, Santa Claus is real, and if we're good boys and girls, he'll give us presents.

You know, God is real, and if we're good boys and girls, he'll give us presents AND let us live forever with him in heaven!

Please understand, I love the teachings of Jesus. Ideas like compassion, tolerance, and forgiveness are at the core of how I conduct my life. The story of Jesus gives us a beautiful model on how to navigate one's life-experience -- and how to interact with your fellow humans.

Just because I don't believe in a magical Santa Claus in the sky -- who grants wishes (or not) based on my behavior -- doesn't mean I can't live a life filled with compassion, tolerance, and forgiveness.

When we learn to accept responsibility for the creation of our life experience, we "grow-up" as humans. Adults who continue to believe in fairy-tales -- especially when their own life-experience show the results to be inconsistent -- appear to suffer from some type of mental disorder.

Think about it: If you prayed to a "magical" box of Frosted Flakes every day, and the results came back 50/50, would you still believe the box of Frosted Flakes was magical? Better yet, what if a beloved friend, on their birthday, thanked the magical box of Frosted Flakes for "giving them another year of life," only to die unexpectedly hours later, would you still put your faith in the magical box of Frosted Flakes?

I mean, when are you finally going to wake up and realize The Matrix has you?

You are a slave, religious-minded human. You are born into bondage -- given a mental program by your elders -- loved ones that you trusted.

It wasn't your fault.

However, to continue believing delusional ideas -- ones that don't match up with your own experience -- is a disservice to yourself. It's a disservice to your fellow humans. It's lazy. It says, "I'm not responsible for the creation of my life -- my reality -- some invisible being is responsible. I'm just gonna sit back and let things happen."

Yes, there is a force that keeps the Universe in perfect order. I call this force Nature -- and it is my "God." Nature is predictable. It is a system. You, as the human, are responsible for planting the "seeds" of your life. Nature, or "God" if you must, is the force that brings those seeds into fruition.

Nothing more. Nothing less.

In the words of my great-grandfather, Albert Einstein, "I do not believe in the God of theology who rewards good and punishes evil. My God created laws that take care of that. His universe is not ruled by wishful thinking, but by immutable laws."

There is no magical Santa Claus that grants wishes based on one's behavior.

Were that the case, Ariane Noelle Patterson would still be alive today, because I'm sure she was a wonderful human being.

In the words of Carl Sagan, "It is far better to grasp the universe as it really is than to persist in delusion, however satisfying and reassuring."

Free your mind.

Click HERE for an instant Kindle, i-Pad, or Smartphone download of Your Truth Will Set You Free.

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