B E A U T Y
Tips To Organize Your Dorm Room
Joey’s Closet 2008 Fall Fashion
S P E A K S
D.I.S.H Dating.Infatuation.Sex.Hook-up
10 Way s
to Understand Money
I Want to be Perfect
How To Know He’s Mr. Right
Find out how society has changed since Marilyn
Vision
We want to create a magazine for young women to teach them to love God and to love themselves. As females, we all struggle with our image. We compare ourselves with the cover girls who are “perfect” and we desire everyone’s approval. We need to realize we are lovely inside and out. We should understand it is impossible for us to live up to our own expectations of “perfect.” We can discover the girls we thought were flawless on the covers of magazines look in the mirror and don’t feel good enough either. The pressure to be perfect is intense and this is why there are so many young women
jazmin
who struggle with eating disorders,
beauty speaks
abuse, cutting, etc. and we think
www.jazminmag.com © beautyspeaks@jazminmag.com
something needs to be done.
The Jasmine flower inspired
Jasmine
the name of the magazine
(the flower)
even though we altered the spelling to Jazmin.
Jasmine is a flower that lets off a very unique, beautiful scent only after the sun has set. Ancient Asians wrote of Jasmine penetrating the deepest layers of the soul and opening emotions. When morning comes the pedals pull tightly together again. Jasmine is considered the ‘queen of flowers.’ In some cultures, jasmine means ‘gift from God.’
Editorial Staff My dream for Jazmin Magazine keeps growing bigger and bigger everyday. God has shown me so much of who He is, what He thinks of me and what He knows I’m capable of even when I do not believe in myself. My hope is readers will be able to relate to something in this magazine; and feel comforted in the promise they are not the only one who carries heartache. We are not alone and are capable of much more than we will believe. Through our heartaches we often develop shame. Shame makes us uncomfortable with our beauty.... Be assured young woman, there is no need to feel ashamed anymore. Tara Werneke . Director of Jazmin
tara@jazminmag.com
Throughout the heartbreaks I have learned there are not many others whose love is as easily gained as my father's. I have been hurt and betrayed. This of course has resulted in struggles with body image, feeling as though I am too flawed to deserve love, and other ridiculous beliefs. I finally found the only love that could compare with what I was looking for... God's love is the only thing that has been able to mend the brokenness I have felt. My hope for Jazmin is this will be a place for young women to inspire each other in realistic ways and be encouraged to become whoever they are meant to be! Michelle Keen . Lead Editor
michelle@jazminmag.com
Getting to be a part of such a great magazine is an honor. I know that Jazmin will change the hearts of girls and women who read it. We all need a magazine which goes against everything the rest of the world is teaching us. We need to see how God views us! Because God’s view is so important, it should be the only one that matters.
Jen Peterson
jen@jazminmag.com
www.jazminmag.com
Š Copyright 2008
It is an honor for me to be a part of Jazmin Magazine. It is my heart to seek beauty from the inside out - body, mind and spirit; and to teach you how to look your best but also that what you see does not define who you are. Most of us spend much time grooming our hair, our skin, our nails, and our closets! We should; we are women! Even so, it is my heart to help us makeover our spirits…to be less selfish, less bitter, less critical and more satisfied in God and who He has made us to be. Proverbs 31:30. As a contributor to Jazmin, it is my goal to constantly grow in wisdom so I have something worth sharing and you have something worth reading. Love, Joey xoxo. Joanna Mickelson
joey@jazminmag.com
When I heard about the idea of Jazmin in its earliest stages, I knew it was something I had to be a part of. As a female, I know what it’s like to try to measure up to our society’s impossible standards for women. Through Jazmin, I pray God will help me show other young women it is only He we should strive to please. I have dealt with some difficult experiences in my own life, and I can only hope Jazmin will allow me to reach out and use those struggles to benefit other young women faced with similar situations. Alissa LaVigne
alissa@jazminmag.com
Family and friends have always been important to me. I grew up in a great family who showed me what it means to be loved, and how to show love to others. Jazmin is one more avenue in which I can share that love. I know from personal experience that every woman involved with the production of Jazmin has a heart that also strives to share their struggles, victories, and lives as they are involved with this magazine. I know that you as a reader can trust in them, because I do! Vanessa Aleksuk
vanessa@jazminmag.com
www.jazminmag.com
© Copyright 2008
beauty
fashion
beauty
interest
.diddly ho ow to how
interest .diddly
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I went to a pool party the last weekend before school ended. We started a water fight. A friend of mine, trying to be funny, picked me up to throw me in the pool. Unfortunately, during our struggle his hand got caught in the strings of my bikini. When he sent me flying into the pool I went splashing into the water, but my bikini top stayed in his hands! - Anna *****
I was at the neighborhood pool with my best friend and a bunch of guy friends. We were swimming around and one of the guys, who happened to be my big crush, found a pretty big frog. He thought it would be funny to throw it at me and aimed a little too well. The frog landed right in between my rather large boobs!! Although the boy was surprised, he thought it was hilarious as did every other guy at the pool. They laughed. I was mortified!!! -Melanie *** Out on an amazing eight hour road trip with my boyfriend and his brothers I was extremely uncomfortable in the bra I had decided to wear so off it came. Finally we arrived at the hotel; my boyfriend’s brother was trying to get the key to work to open our door. I was standing next to him when I felt a fluttering in my cleavage, in reaction to being so disgusted with a bug flying in my shirt, I grabbed my shirt and pulled it down and out a nasty bug flies. Yes, my boyfriend’s brother saw my hoo-ta-tas.
On my lunch break I jetted over to Leeann Chin’s. As I walked up to the restaurant I noticed 3 attractive soldiers in uniform on the front patio. I was looking pretty cute that day and I noticed them checking me out. As I proceeded through ordering and paying I saw a soldier come inside. Suddenly he tapped me on the shoulder. My heart raced, as I assumed, like any girl would, “This guy is going to ask me out!” Instead he said, “Excuse me ma’am.” “Yes?” I said, totally thinking…this is the moment. “Umm… your pants are completely split open in the back and we thought we should let you know.” I felt back there and it was no small hole. My pants were completely split open from top to bottom with my bare butt and green thong displayed for the world to see. Mortified, I took off my suit jacket, tied it around my waist and thanked the soldier profusely for telling me. I packed my food to go and had to face the soldiers on the way out. I ran to my car and headed to the mall for an emergency pair of pants. Needless to say, I never returned to Leann Chin’s on lunch break again.
– Sarah ****
- Cassie *****
My friends and I were headed to the store to meet up with some really cute boys. It was spring and the ground was all muddy and sloppy. We had to go to the bathroom really badly, so we stopped at a local business to use their facilities, but they were closed. As we walked through the grass my shoe got sucked into the gunky mud. I started laughing SO hard I peed my pants, stuck there in the mud. To make matters worse I fell over and had mud and pee all over me. It was disgusting! Page 9
- Mikayla ****
mmer…here it You’ve waited for it all su is…2008 Fall Fashion back to your undergrad Whether you’re headed lectures in something (gearing up for Anatomy ic) or you’re a young cool, comfortable and ch on ur tail off for that promoti professional working yo re se Manolo Blahniks), the (and finally affording tho ot “h a save you from being are many fall threads to o of on (via Christian Sirian tranny mess” this seas les mb revisit the sassy ense Project Runway). Let’s ys in NY, Paris, & Milan showed off on the runwa d the latest fall fashions an earlier this year in 7 of h gear. kick off your fall into hig
Vicente Villarin
BCBG Max Azria
1. Rank Number One - Class Act C Classy dresses and ensembles are back ((thank God). Forget the looser looks of past seasons; it is all about the waist this fall. s Pencil skirts, belted dresses & coats, and P ffitted frocks (comfortable; not skin-tight) are making their way with a new attitude. a We are seeing a classier, sassier, & edgier W dress VS the flirtier, prettier trapeze dress of d spring & summer. I give it an A+.*See Style s Note* N
Gucci
D&G
2. Two for the Show—Velvet Elvis 2 U Ultra-rich textures have stepped out into the spotlight and want to be famous--make th way for VELVET. Velvet wants to be known w in every way this fall--dresses, bubble skirts, coats and pants. It is showing itself in rich, co soft textures and in deep stained shades of so blue, purple, black and beige. Grab a killer b bag and let’s get this show on the road. b
3. Thi rd Ga l’s a C harm The R ussian Doll The Ru ssian d person oll has ality all an ecle her ow ctic mixes n. This up pen f a cil sk ll sh jackets ,bohem irts with milit e drama ary ians w tically printed ith plaids, with m drindle onoch sk rome t high b o oots. S ps and irts h k e ne and sh is bare e ly defin e eable she we likes it that w ar t ay. Wh at will and ne omorrow? W e don’ ither d t know oes sh e...but be am s h e will azing.
Anna Sui
Temperly London
4. Fo(u)rlorn—Monochromes
Jill Sander
Akris
Monochrome: def. “in shades of one color; dull; consisting of one color.” Don’t let monochromes fool you. This fall, they say what they mean. What you see is what you get. It is their every intent to make an austere e statement. Several designers showcased head-to-toe darks and blacks giving a somber feeling while lighter monochrome greys gave an air of sophistication. *See Style Note*
5. Five Fri ngy Furs to Shag No doubt ab o
Proenza Schouler
Missoni
ut it…shagg runway. The y, fringy furs y were show ruled the in g th 70’s retro fe emselves w el. Hats and ith a 60’s an d muffs, too. T love to wrap hese furs w you like a m ould illion bucks you toasty w while keepin arm. A fash g ionable fur completely is idiosyncra sensible. It’s ti c , yet enough to h saying over ave Austin P and over ag o w ers a in… “Yeah, go chasing Baby!” But furry creatu d on’t res with you Faux furs w r shagging ill suffice wit shears! h a similar lo ok saving y PETA and a ou from stab in the p urse.
7. Seven Folds of Fashion Fold here, fold there, turn it over… Origami pleats and folds have been popular since last fall 2007 and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon! From completely “folded” dresses and skirts to jacket and pocket details. This look tastes better than a fortune cookie and lasts longer too.
HOW TO WORK 2008 FALL TRENDS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE
BODY TYPES
Explained‌
2008 Fall trends to try‌
Pear Shape
Slender neck, narrow shoulders, small bust, refined rib cage, shapely waist, generous lower hips, full thighs.
Trend 1 (dress) or Pair Trend 3 (skirts) with Trend 6 (tops)
Diamond Shape
Narrow shoulders, a small bust, broad hips and generous thighs.
Pair Trend 7 (tops) with Trend 6 (pants slight taper at hemline)
Round Shape
Generous bust, wider rib cage, round or fuller back, generous middle, narrow lower hips, often shapely slender legs.
Pair fitted skirts with Trend 4 (long tunic)
Inverted Triangle Shape
Broad shoulders, a medium to full bust, average waist, narrow hips and shapely long legs.
Pair Trend 3 (skirts) or Trend 2 (flared pants) with dolman sleeves top.
Straight Shape
An upper and lower torso that are equal in width, an average bust, a large rib cage, undefined waist, flat bottom, and slender legs.
Pair Trend 5 (long jacket) with a shorter skirt.
Hour Glass Shape
A pronounced bust, small bone structure, a defined waist, curved hips, sometimes protuding buttocks, and shapely legs.
Trend 1 is best but you can wear them all1,2,3,4,5,6,7.
*Body types courtesy of http://www.melange4women.com/drforyoboty.html*
Getting ready to head back to the dorms? Need to be more organized
Here are
1
5 tips for a fully functional and fantast
Maximize Your Space
There are tons of really great organizing products out there. Hanging shoe racks and sweater racks are faves. Multi-tiered hangers are a must! Boxes are also simple (and fab looking) in which lots of great stuff can be stored, and even stacked. Ikea has really great choices and prices. Check out the brand LINGO!
3
2
Make
Instead of each person havi corner of the room, set up area, sleeping area, study a area, etc. This will make t homey and roomy. Just be snacks ‘n stuff that are not
Be Clutter Free Simplify with every chance you get. It is distracting to try to study or relax in a cluttered place. Use bulletin boards, shelves and‌ your garbage can!!
5
Be Creative and Relax
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Have fun with the set up you have. If you have multiple room mates and are feeling a bit squishy there might not be a whole lot you can do. So just take a deep breath, accept what you have, and have fun with it!
4
Use
Too much color mig over stimulates the e you feel anxious ins zen-like. Pick a coup easy on the eyes and This is especially im room mates. Work o with your roomies an become a vacati
d than last year?
tic dorm.
it a Home
ing a different p a common area, a kitchen things more e sure to label for sharing!!
Color Wisely
ght look hot but it eyes and can make stead of calm and ple colors which are d stick with those. portant if you have out a color scheme d watch your dorm ion get-a-way!
F INISHING S CHOOL
Better tha * m r a h n Beauty.....C
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Having a heart of gold is fabulous, but don’t expect it to help you much when you first meet people. If you are the type to be “sweet as pie” who is too shy to make a charming first impression, you may be missing out on a lot of opportunities! Here are six tips to impress people within the first 60 seconds of learning your name!
S h a k i n g Hand s
* S m il e *
L a u gh
No one wants to touch a dead fish so don’t let your hand resemble one! When someone grabs your hand it should be a firm grip, as if you were genuinely pleased to meet the person.
When meeting someone for the first time your facial expression says it all! Even if you have pearly whites and shiny red lip gloss, an artificial smile still looks faker than Trumps toupee! Your smile should be genuine.
People have different types of laughs, some scream unpleasantly into the eardrums of others! Are you a little “over-the-top?” Tone down your laugh so it doesn’t scare off potential friends, dates, or business partners!
* Tone of Voice
C o m p l i m en t
Lis ten *
Have you ever found yourself intrigued with a person with a monotone voice? Probably not. We all like to talk to people who show excitement, passion, and emotion in their tone. Keep people interested by showing emotion in your voice.
Compliment someone within the first minute you meet them. This does not need to be something fake! This will start a conversation and it will bring you to common ground with the person you are meeting.
Take the time to learn about the person you are meeting. Ask a few questions with a genuine interest. Make them feel important by staying 100% in the conversation with out being distracted.
Source: Valentine, Helen & Alice Thompson. 2003. Better than Beauty: A Guide to Charm
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Before
We’ve all seen those women who seem to have perfect flawless skin. Or is it a trick of make up? Here are some tips to achieve the natural, healthy glow you’ve always wanted.
CONCEALER
Make Up
TIPS
Concealers are great for that natural look because you can cover blemishes and broken veins with out having to use a heavy base all over your face.
BASE Start by choosing a base that MATCHES the color of your skin. Don’t try to create a darker, sun tanned look with your face. There are bronzing powders specially created for this. Dot the base onto your face. Use the SHEEREST one you can. Don’t use too much at first, you can always add more. Blend really well. Some make up artists recommend a damp sponge, but fingers work just as well. Make sure you blend into the hairline, sides of face, around the nose and particularly the jaw line. Don’t just stop at the jaw, your face will look like a mask.
POWDER Powder is optional, but you can use it as it “SETS” your make-up and absorbs excess oil. Press the powder onto your face with a puff or a powder brush. After a couple of minutes brush the powder off using light downward strokes.
BLUSH Next apply blusher. Brush this lightly on the apple of your cheeks and up towards the temples.
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THE TRICK
After
Now for that NATURAL GLOW. Place a cool damp (not wet) wash cloth over your face and press very gently. This will give the whole face a fresh look! Gorgeous!
Leaning by Susie Larson http://susielarsonblog.typepad.com “Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.” - Romans 12:1-2 The more I learn and comprehend the love of God, the more I understand that to offer myself as a living sacrifice is simply to entrust myself to Him. The picture you see is one of my son and his sweet, precious girlfriend. Watching their love unfold is like watching a flower grow in all its beauty. They love the Lord and want His highest and best in all they do. What I love about this picture is that it captures the way God wants us to lean back and entrust ourselves to Him. Instead of clenching our fists or demanding to be heard when we are missed or overlooked, we can offer ourselves to the Lord and entrust ourselves to Him. He is our greatest defender and He will make a way for us. When we are unappreciated for all of our hard work, we can offer ourselves to God; we can lean back and trust in His love, because He promises to reward the work of our hands when we live for Him. We won’t need to look to people to affirm or notice us because God does, and it’s His opinion that matters at the end of the day. In this world we were promised we would have trouble, but our Savior has overcome the world. Our safest place is with Him; leaning, trusting, and loving the One who loves us. Pursue moments like this each day. Lean back and rest in the loving arms of your Savior. When tough moments or mean people cross your will or make you mad, offer yourself to the Lord, entrust yourself to Him, and allow the rhythm of His heartbeat to bring you back to a place of peace and perspective. Why is this important? Because as this passage says, when our minds are renewed we will be able to test and approve what God’s will is His good, pleasing, perfect, and highest best for us. Can you think of a more priceless gift? As the world rushes, you rest. Entrust yourself to Him that your life may be a sweet scent of Heaven to a desperate world in need.
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my
airy tale
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A little piece of my heart written by Michelle Keen
For the past… I dunno… ten years I have watched almost all of my friends date, become engaged, get married, have kids, etc. I, on the other hand, have remained absolutely single. Although for the most part I am content with where my life is… I am in grad school, working a great job, have tons of friends… I often am led to wonder, why am I still single? Why why why? It’s not like I’m beating guys off with sticks and am choosing to remain single. To be honest… guys don’t pursue me. Ever. I can’t remember the last time I was asked out on a date. I haven’t received flowers from a guy since high school. The only action I have received has been through friendly bantering and flirting with a few random guys. So what gives? Over the years I have received plenty of advice and reasons... whether I asked for it or not. I’d like to share with you the most common:
one
Two
Three
God’s timing
Guys are intimidated by you
It’ll happen when you stop looking.
Anyone who has spent a good amount of time in the church and is single has heard this “theologically sound” reasoning. God’s timing is different than ours and when you’re ready and the man of your dreams is ready, God will bring you together. But I think this is kind of a strange thing to say since no one ever feels ready for big changes and responsibilities. Regardless, I have spent years praying that God would get this man ready. What the heck is taking him so long?!!?!
I have heard this sooo many times I could puke. Yes, although I am compassionate, sweet, and caring, I do have a strong personality. I have leadership skills, am ambitious and direct. This probably can make me somewhat intimidating… but I have met plenty of men who carry all these characteristics as well. Why should they be intimidated? Also, anyone who spends five minutes talking to me will realize I am not an intimidating person. Furthermore, I have watched other strong, independent women find their husbands…. why am I so different?
People have told me I will find my husband when I stop looking. Ha! I sleep, read, work, study, work, run, read, and sleep. My weekends are full and my week days are even fuller. I do not think, breathe, and dream relationships. I do not have my whole wedding planned out. Yes, I look and I wonder and I watch for Mr. Right, but I’m not obsessed. There have been times when I don’t think about it at all… no knight in shining armor dropped into my lap then!
I have determined none of those answers suit me or my life completely. I could (and sometimes do) go crazy trying to figure this all out! I often feel like there is something wrong with me. Like I am not “like-able” or the type of girl guys want to be with. It’s hard. It’s hard to trust God. It’s hard to not take it out on all men. And it’s hard for me not to feel bad for myself or about myself. Bottom line, God knows the desires of my heart and I DO trust Him. Although we may argue and disagree about some of the direction of my life, God will continue to win those battles because, ultimately, He can see more than I can. He knows me better than I know myself. I know I would rather spend my life fighting with God about being single than doing it my own way and ending up in a bad relationship with a broken heart. I’ve been there and done that and I wouldn’t recommend it. So for now, you just get to hear a little piece of my heart and I hope if you are feeling this way, you will know you are not the only one. We do not know why God does what He does. We do not always understand the “order of events” of our life. But let me encourage you to hold strong and keep your eyes on the prize, because God’s favor is better than our own way.
Regular Column For Sweet Remedy
YOU ASKED:
Your
When is the right time to start dating?
Wee havee heard more than we can handle about teenage pregnancy and STD’s. Both B issues sues are a very real results of engaging in sexual activity. But RELAX cuz we’re not n talking sex and virginity, we’re just talking about dating. A guy and a girl go out king about a to dinner and a movie. Once, twice, maybe three times. What’s the harm in that, right? Sadly, dating has risks too. Although it can be fun, when it comes to dating, what you lose isn’t as obvious until it’s lost.
As women, we are emotional beings. Because we are wired to be lovey-dovey, we must keep this in mind when deciding when we should allow ourselves to date. It is very easy to let ourselves become emotionally attached. We’ve all watched the friend who becomes so over her head in love-lest-I-die that she is confined to her bedroom and a gallon of Ben and Jerry’s when the relationship eventually does die. OR there are the times we let our emotions play out in the physical sense. When hormones are raging and emotions are flying, dating can easily turn into casual, hook-up, short-term flings when we wake up the next day with regret. We cannot choose the perfect age for you to start dating, we can show you the typical scenarios from failing relationships that were caused by bad timing. A. You date for the wrong reasons… hotness factors, boredom, loneliness, status, everyone else is, etc. You become disillusioned about what a healthy dating relationship is supposed to be like. B. You put everything into a relationship that should only be put into a long-term committed marriage. Your heart and soul is immersed in this guy, except the relationship ends up crashing and you feel like crap. Eventually, you’ll have a pattern of both A or B scenarios, you become numb to feelings. It occurs in your life so often and “giving yourself away” is no longer a big deal. Slow down, step back and breath. Take the time to consider your options. Some of you can go out on dates with guys to just get to know them. Others need to be more careful. But it is ok to get to know different personalities and explore the qualities you may want in your man someday with out becoming committed to a temporary stand-in. Most importantly, don’t base any decisions off your emotions!
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wri en by Tara Werneke My past does not consist of much stress or heartache compared to many others. In high school, I was very involved with my youth group, had great friends from church and hardly rebelled against what I was taught. I felt like I had everything together…and then I grew up.
But within a year, I gained about ten to fi een pounds and was constantly reminded by magazines, the relationship I chose to be in, and my reflection; that I wasn’t as thin as I used to be. And according to all those sources, this was unacceptable. Someone that I trusted would always joke with me - that I was pulling the ‘bait and switch’ where I would be thin and beautiful until I had the guy hooked, then I would gain weight and be ugly.
I am the type of person who will always have the next five years planned out for myself. It comes with being a compulsive planner. The very natural and expected panic of ‘what do I do next?’ that hits young adults at “I knew this was a high school graduation never problem, but actually hit me because I already I didn’t feel like knew with no doubt what would anyone would be next in my life.
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It wasn’t long a er this that I avoided mirrors completely because I hated the sight of myself. Lost all respect for my body or my image. I would go to work in mismatched I would work at a photography understa nd me.” clothes, no make up, and hair tossed in a messy pony tail studio, get married young, have every day. Every time I saw kids young, my husband would a reflection of myself, my eyes would be out on business trips while I’m at home flood with tears. One night I was looking taking care of his house. I had my whole at a magazine with Britney Spears on the life set up so this plan would happen cover. I sat down in front of a mirror, and accordingly. I was working at a studio I made a list of everything that I wanted loved. I was in a very serious relationship to change about myself so I could look with a boy whom every girl he knew was perfect; I wanted my hair longer, curly jealous of me dating him. It seemed as and blonde, a thinner neck, thinner arms, though we shared the same dreams for shorter fingers, smaller nail beds, thicker our future. We were told many times over eyebrows, bluer eyes with longer and again that if there were two people in the thicker eyelashes, a smaller waist, less world that were meant to be together, it bony ankles, etc. Obviously some of these would have been us. My parents, mentors, items are ridiculous and impossible to ever friends, and pastors were very supportive achieve. But this is what society taught me of everything I had. This led me to believe perfection looks like and people around it was…perfect. me didn’t help convince me otherwise.
At this time in my life, I was extremely lonely. I started closing people out. Relationships severely suffered. I felt threatened by my insecurities, they started to consume every thought. I would always compare myself to the other girl that was in the room. Trying to figure out how I was be er than her, and if I wasn’t, I had nothing to do with her. Somehow, I tried to justify my thoughts of comparison and judging. I knew this was a problem, but I didn’t feel like anyone would understand me. I felt as though I was alone in the world, the only girl who felt this way. The more I tried to hide my unhappiness, the more it escalated. Because of my lack of confidence, my boyfriend felt it was justified for him to tell me what was wrong with me. “You need to burn that shirt,” “You should go shopping with Anna so you can start dressing like her,” “If you go over 125 pounds it’s over,” “You have go en a lot chubbier since we’ve met.” I put a smile on my face and made sure everyone ‘knew’ I was happy. They had to ‘know’ I was happy with my boyfriend, my job, and happy with myself. I trained myself to be happy so no one would be disappointed in me. I had everyone fooled including myself, but not God. Within two months, my world completely changed. My plan was completely sha ered. I Page 31
moved out of my parent’s house for the first time, I was forced to quit my job for no good reason, and I finally gained the courage to break up with the guy I had been planning to marry. These changes were overwhelming and I did not have the support of the people I loved as much as I had before. The house I moved into was shared with four girls from my youth ministry. I watched these young women and was amazed by how free they were. They had insecurities just like I did but they didn’t let it consume their entire life. A er watching them, I learned a lot about being a woman. The first thing I learned is every girl needs her girlfriends. I don’t care if you say, “I’m one of the guys, girls are caddy and annoying…” It is necessary for us to have girls around to upli and encourage us. We all go through ba les in life boys will never understand.
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The second thing I learned from these women was about where security comes from. My friends were so secure with their relationships with God. They found their identity in being His child. For years, I was trying to find security in my parents, work, and mostly in my boyfriend - which le me empty and worthless inside. Lastly, and most importantly, I learned my plan is nothing compared to God’s. To this day I will look in a mirror and have flashbacks of the things that were said to me about how I wasn’t thin enough. Because of my lack of faith and my need to control my own life, I ta ooed the word ‘faith’ on my wrist as a daily reminder of how God has taught me He is and always will take care of me. Looking back on all of o these struggles I went through, I
wish I had the courage to talk to someone about my insecurities earlier. But I was so ashamed and as a 20 year old I felt I should know be er than to ever feel this way. I thought my mentors would not want anything to do with me, my parents would have thought I was crazy, and my boyfriend wouldn’t love me anymore. I wanted so desperately to be perfect.
“...I just w a nt to b e w o nder ful...” -Marilyn MonroeNow I realize that every girl desires to be beautiful. We all want to be perfect. We have a natural instinct to compare ourselves with each other. I always wanted to be a specific celebrity, and then I would find out she’s been bulimic since the age of 16! The girl that I thought was perfect looked in the mirror and saw the same imperfections I felt. There was only one perfect soul to step foot on this Earth – Jesus Christ, and He was rejected by many people. He did not need our approval and we can learn from Him in this aspect. Volunteering as a youth leader for three years, I saw girls going through the same thing as me. I always tried to talk to my girls about issues I knew they were going through, but again, they sometimes would be so ashamed that they wouldn’t openly share their struggles with me. My life revolved around those girls, it was almost like I was trying to fix my heartache from my past by helping them. Becoming a graphic designer has been an eye opening experience for me. I have
an eye opening experience for me. I have now worked with Photoshop enough to understand the models on magazines look much different in ‘real life.’ The media portrays a distorted perception of beauty. The typical young women’s magazine will show a photo of a celebrity on the cover, beautiful beyond belief. Young girls all over the world pick up the magazine and feel like they are not good enough for society. We’re forced to see magazines on
Before
the racks with highlights saying, “5 Ways to Reach the Perfect Orgasm” on the cover for young single girls to read. Girls see this and feel they have to make up for their beauty ‘imperfections’ by learning how to make men happy in other ways. This is one reason girls become sexually active at such a young age. Seeing this in young women has given me the heart and vision to create Jazmin. Nothing in the world had ever been so clear to me.
After
Insecurities. This is a photo of myself that I retouched. The photo on the right does not look like me. I manipulated the original to fix my insecurities. My eyes are bigger, my cheeks are more defined, my skin is clear and glowing, my eyes are more blue with an extra sparkle, and my lips are more plump. The photo on the left looks like me. This transformation took me about 10 minutes to complete. Insecurities are lies, which makes sense knowing Satan is the father of lies. These lies will hold you back from what God wants to do in your life. If you do not take care of them, they will never go away. Page 33
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written by Liz Clochie
There is a word in permanent ink on my foot that reads “Parla” (the R should roll like those suave accents you hear in the movies). The word imprinted in black means Pearl, which the Greek language describes as something of unique value. Now this is not only a tattoo or a simple moment of compulsion, although thinking back I guess I could have just bought a necklace, but to me, it is a constant daily reminder of what it takes to be valuable. I used to hate processes. I am the kind of person who likes to see results and I like to see them NOW. Like when you see a half finished painting and you can’t quite figure it out because it doesn’t make sense but when finished it is brilliant! Or when you are practicing an instrument and it sounds so completely off pitch but in time it is a masterpiece. But recently the meaning of the word “process” has gained a whole new value in my life! This is how I grew to love the process.
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For a long time now I have been intrigued with the beauty of a pearl. I love them. Not only do I like the way that they look and that they make a classy fashion statement, but to me they represent so much more than that. They represent a process of pain and struggle which turns into beauty and value.
A pearl is created when a grain of sand finds its way into a pearl oyster. This invasion actually hurts the oyster. To try and deal with the pain and struggle, it reacts by coating the irritant with layer upon layer of a pearly substance known as ‘nacre.’ This gives the pearl its breathtaking appearance and iridescent beauty. This unique relationship gives birth to the natural pearl. It takes years for a pearl to grow and obtain value. The world’s largest pearl was found in 1934. The giant treasure known as “Pearl of Lao-Tzu” was presumed to be 600 years old, weighed 14 pounds and was 9 1/2 inches long and 5 1/2 inches in diameter and is now valued at $42 million! 600 years is an unfathomable process for me to even wrap around my mind. Although it seems outrageous, look at what it is worth! Let me get to the point. Life is harsh on the heart of a girl or at least on mine! There are so many expectations and stages you have to go through but ultimately I want, and I would dare say we all want, to be everything, 100% of who God created us to be. Every female I have ever encountered in my life has wanted to be beautiful and valuable. We often get caught up in the game of comparison and measure our beauty inaccurately. Yet we forget or never even knew that we were created to be “the image-bearer of God, the crown of creation” (Eldridge). This is where the process and creation of a valuable pearl is an encouragement to me. Just as a pearl will lose its value if it is taken out of the process too early, so will I if I remove myself from the will of God and the path that He has for my life. Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17 saying that it is not His prayer God
”My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.”
John 17:15
would take them out of the world but rather He would protect them while they were in it; I believe the same for us now. He has a plan and a process for each one of us and intends for us to be beautiful women of great value. It is because of this I am willing to embrace the process. So I guess our value is not found in our importance in the world or to other people, or even how beautiful we are, but we are found important and beautiful because of the story we have to offer and in how willing we are to stay in the life God has placed us in without removing ourselves from it because of the difficulties along the way. If you can catch one thing from this article, ladies, it is this… If you want to be one of great beauty and value, you have to go through the process. Be inspired and keep your beauty growing!
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M A R I LY N
Written by Michelle Keen
“She was beautiful and untouched, it was as though she were just beginning.” - Bert Stern, photographer -
Have you ever watched someone become obsessed with their weight? Maybe you yourself step on the scale numerous times a day? Our society has this “thing” about telling us we are not good enough… and a girl’s size accounts for a BIG part in this. We believe we can never be thin enough. We cannot be beautiful enough. We cannot be perfect.
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We’ve all heard about the problems this can cause and maybe you have seen the problems pressure to be thin and beautiful can create in someone’s life. I remember wishing I COULD be anorexic… getting mad at myself for eating. Then I tried to be bulimic for the summer when I was 16… I failed miserably. My view changed later my senior year in high school when I watched a friend struggle with anorexia. She dropped a good fifty pounds and was nothing but skin and bones. She still wanted to lose more weight when her family forced her into treatment. Marilyn Monroe is on the cover of this issue for a reason. We adore Marilyn. Here’s a glimpse of her bio (www.marilynmonroe.com); “Marilyn Monroe personified Hollywood glamour with an unparalleledglowandenergywhichenamoredthe world. Although she was an alluring beauty with voluptuous curves and a generous pout, Marilyn volup
was more than a ‘50s sex goddess. Her apparent vulnerability and innocence, in combination with an innate sensuality, has endeared her to the global consciousness. She dominated the age of movie stars to become, without question, the most famous woman of the 20th Century.” She was charming, classy and sexy. She was considered the most ideal woman… every man’s love affair... the sex symbol of American women. And, yes, she too wanted to be perfect... or as she puts it “wonderful.” Check this out though. If Marilyn were alive now she would be a size 14… which today would be considered a plus size model! This article shows what would have needed to be done on Marilyn Monroe (and Audrey Hepburn) in order for her to reach the “beauty standards” of today. Here is what the plastic surgeons determined. In order to understand our own quest for beauty we must first understand where we come from. Most of us reading this are probably Americans. We are a product of American culture. We hear some very powerful messages every day. These messages become a very strong part of our personal identity. Money, power and control, sex, independence, freedom, and beauty are a few themes integrated
“Being a sex symbol is a heavy load to carry, especially when one is tired, hurt and bewildered.” “There was my name up in lights. I said, ‘God, somebody’s made a mistake.” “I don’t want to play sex roles any more. I’m tired of being known as the girl with the shape.” “[Hollywood is] a place where they’ll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.” “I want to grow old without face-lifts. I want to have the courage to be loyal to the face I have made.” “No one ever told me I was pretty when I was a little girl. All little girls should be told they are pretty, even if they aren’t.” “I’m very definitely a woman and I enjoy it.” “I don’t mind living in a man’s world as long as I can be a woman in it.” “I don’t want to make money. I just want to be wonderful.“ - Marilyn Monroe
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in our lives. When we look at Hollywood, we see thin. But models are statistically 23% thinner than the average women. If someone is not thin, we often hear “even though she is bigger, she is still beautiful.” What does this tell us? It means something is wrong with having curves… when a person’s weight really has nothing to do with beauty. “Beauty is the defining characteristic for American women. It’s the necessary and often sufficient condition for social success” (Pipher, 183). The pressure women feel to be beautiful is nothing new. But it’s our picture of what beauty is that is often distorted. Let me ask you some questions… Who are you learning life from? Where do your personal “beauty
“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”
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- Audrey Hepburn
standards” come from? How do you compare yourself to others? If you struggle with your image you are not alone. Every woman, young and old, no matter the size, feel the same way. Of course it is important to take care of our bodies; eat healthy and exercise. However, the messages we hear take things too far. We can not allow society to rip away the confidence and beauty we all have the right to embrace. Ladies, instead of wishing for things we can not have (like wider eyes or thinner thighs) embrace yourself from the inside out. Forget the standards of our culture and see who you are from the inside out as a beautiful gift to the world! Because… that is what you are!
Statistics/Info Take a look at some of these statistics and facts referencing eating disorders and depression.
Eating Disorders: • • • •
2 million Americans suffer from eating disorders, most being women. 1 in 150 women fall victim to anorexia. Anorexia typically lasts between 3 to 4 years, but can last much longer. An anorexic can not see the weight reduction even when they have lost 25% of their weight. • Death rates have been as high as 20%. • Suicide is estimated to comprise half the deaths in anorexia.
Depression: • Less than 33% of teens with depression get help. • Untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide, the third leading cause of death among teenagers. 90% of suicide victims suffer from a mental illness, and suffering from depression can make a teenager as much as 12 times more likely to attempt suicide. • Researchers found that among adolescents who develop major depressive disorder, as many as 7% may commit suicide in the young adult years • About 20% of teens will experience teen depression before they reach adulthood. • Girls often destroy their true selves in an effort to be socially acceptable. • 30% of teens with depression also develop a substance abuse problem. • Most important symptoms to look for: a sad mood and a loss of interest in one’s environment. • Depression causes a person to be sluggish and apathetic or angry and hate-filled. • “Some girls manifest their depression by starving themselves or carving their bodies (ex. cutting). Some withdrawl and go deep within themselves, and some swallow pills. Others drink heavily or are promiscuous. Whatever the outward form of the depression, the inward form is the grieving for the lost self, the authentic girl who has disappeared with adolescence. There’s been a death in the family.” (Pipher, 149-150)
If you or someone you know is seriously struggling, get support. Where to go for help: Depression and Suicide help lines, treatment, and counseling: • National Hopeline Network • 1-800-SUICIDE/ 1-800-784-2433 If you are in crisis or having thoughts about suicide, please call the National Hopeline immediately. Your call will be connected to a certified 24-hour crisis center closest to your calling location.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline • 1-800-273-TALK/ 1-800-273-8255 Connects individuals in suicidal crisis by to the nearest available suicide prevention and mental health service provider.
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Eating Disorders- treatment, help lines and counseling: • http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ • http://www.eating-disorder.com/ • http://www.anorexia-nervosa-treatment.
Take a moment to study and practice these encouraging steps to overcome your insecurities and gain confidence in yourself. Talk to God. Every day when you wake up, say a quick prayer. A simple one is, “God, today is for you, I hope I make you smile.” The purpose is to desire God’s approval first, and to keep this mentality throughout your day.
Get Ready. Every day when you wake up, say a quick prayer. A simple one is, “God, today is for you, I hope I make you smile.” The purpose is to desire God’s approval first, and to keep this mentality throughout your day.
Be Extraordinary.
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We all seem to get into a routine; we wear the same clothes, same jewelry, same make-up, same hair styles, etc. Do a little something different! Wear eyeliner! Put some blush on! Curl your hair! Get a new pair of earrings!
Do something to spoil yourself, so when you look in the mirror you receive your own approval! This way you walk out the door feeling like you are good enough for everybody else.
Don’t Anticipate Attention. Especially when we are involved in a relationships, we get ready just for “him”. Date nights are the worst. “Get extra cute and he will tell me how beautiful I am!” The truth is, some guys are really good at complimenting girls. Some guys...aren’t. If you are in a relationship, try to understand your man. What is his love language? If it’s not affirmation, give him a break. If the guy NEVER gives you compliments, then yes, he has a problem and needs to be informed on how a woman works. But if he misses every once in a while, learn to recognize the other ways he shows you he loves and cares for you. But bottom line, if you are single OR taken, do not dwell on attention you crave. Because if you don’t receive it, you will be very disappointed; which will leave you feeling like you are not good enough.
Stop Wishing. Do not compare yourself with any photo of a celebrity. Every single photo has gone through retouching to the point that the woman in the photo does not even recognize herself. And stop comparing yourself with other girls around you. Every single girl can look in a mirror and wish for something completely different. It will never end, unless you put a stop to it.
Proverbs 31:30 NIV “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised!” In today’s language, this verse may say, “You’re charming...but it’s all a facade, you’re hot....but it won’t last, but if you fear God (be reverent of Him and His holiness) then you really get what makes a woman complete in His identity.
Fix Your Own Problems. We shouldn’t try to become somebody completely different than who you are but there isn’t anything wrong with trying to improve yourself. You have complete control with the way you treat your body. If you have acne, see a dermatologist or change your diet. If you are not happy with your weight, get a gym membership. Believe in yourself! If you have insecurities that are impossible to change with out huge amounts of surgery, pray about it. Give those insecurities to God.
Romans 12:2 NIV “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing, and perfect will.”
1 Peter 3:2-4 The Message “God will be captivated by your life of holy beauty. What matters is not your outer appearance - the styling of your hair, the jewelry you wear, the style of your clothes - but your inner disposition. Cultivate inner beauty, the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in.”
Beauty Is “Beauty is powerful. It may be the most powerful thing on earth. It is dangerous. Because it matters… Beauty speaks… Beauty invites… Beauty nourishes… Beauty comforts… Beauty inspires… Beauty is transcendent… Beauty is, without question, the most essential and the most misunderstood of all of God’s qualities.” -Stasi Eldredge
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The following two stories are from a book called, The True Measure of A Woman by Lisa Bevere. We have modified the scenes but the point is very much the same. These scenes illustrate the mental battle girls have in their minds when they first meet each other and in everyday contact.
What happens when two dance team captains from two different high schools meet at a dance competition? Both are juniors and attractive. They greet each other, extend hands to shake, exchange smiles and make eye contact. Captain number one thinks to herself, she is pretty, her hair is smooth, and makeup looks natural. Her lip gloss is a little bright, but I like her earrings. Then she lets her eyes shift to her collar looking for a state champs pin. She led her team to the state championships, like me. She is taller, but I’m just as thin. I like her shoes and I watched her do a perfect high kick.
Captain number one asks, “Did you make it to nationals?” Captain number two has been processing information also. She has determined that captain number one is pretty, though her hair is not its natural color (but she likes it). Captain number one is shorter than her. Captain number one’s legs are not as thin as hers, but she does have a good figure.
Captain number two answers, “No...we didn’t make it to nationals this year. We lost to Eaglebrook. How about you?” Captain number one is relieved. Her team lost to its rival too.
Captain number one responds, ”No, we lost to Harrison High by two points, it really sucked.”
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Captain number two nods her empathy.
A girl who recently had knee surgery, hit the mall with her boyfriend Jake. They are in their sophomore year of college and run into Jake’s old football buddy and his girlfriend at the mall. The two guys are so happy to see each other.
They hug and tell each other, “Hey, you look good! What’s been going on?” Jake tells his old buddy, “Jamal, I want you to meet my girlfriend, Brielle.” Brielle responds, “It’s great to meet you Jamal.” Brielle has been eyeing Jamal’s girlfriend. She must still be in high school cause she’s wearing a letter jacket.
Jamal says, “Great to meet you Brielle! This is Analia. Analia, this is Jake and Brielle.” “It’s nice to meet you.” Analia says as she smiles nervously. She feels a little awkward because she did not go to Lexington High School and is still a senior. Analia has perfect, golden skin and Brielle is all broken out without a drop of concealer. Analia is toned and thinner. Brielle is afraid her boyfriend is going to think Jamal’s girlfriend is hotter than her. Analia looks super cute in an urban trendy outfit. Her dark hair is flat ironed and sparkling like a Pantene pro-V commercial. Brielle is in an oversized track suit to cover the bandaged knee from her recent surgery. She didn’t think they’d run into anyone they knew so she didn’t wear make-up. Brielle feels self-conscious.
While the boys are busy catching up, Brielle fires off a question, “How long have you known Jamal?” “A few years, but we have only been dating for a few months. How long have you been dating Jake?” Analia asks. “Two years,” Brielle answers conceitedly, and then adds, “I just had knee surgery.” “Oh, I’m so sorry!” Says Analia.
A match has been made. They mutually understand each other, neither is intimidated by the looks or abilities of the other. Their pluses and minuses balance out. They can be friends.
Brielle is intimidated by how hot and sweet Analia is. She doesn’t want to make it easy for Analia to feel comfortable. She turns from Analia, then reaches out and pulls on her boyfriend’s arm. It is her signal that she feels left out and wants to go. She doesn’t want to get to know Analia, she wants to draw her own conclusions.
Appearance-wise, these hypothetical captains were equally matched. But what happens if two very different girls meet?
The guys switch numbers so they can catch up later. On the way home, Jake tells Brielle how excited he is about seeing Jamal.
Jake comments, “I like Analia, Jamal seems to be really into her.” Brielle rolls her eyes. “Why that face?” Jake asks. “Did you see how tight her top was? Of course he’s into her!” “I didn’t notice.” Jake answers honestly. “You know, I was a lot thinner before I had to take medication for my knee,” Brielle asserts, wanting to disqualify Analia’s hotness as slutty and short-lived while reminding her boyfriend of her own personal tragedy. Brielle continues, “If I had all day to spend on my looks and I could exercise, I could look just as hot as Analia!”
Jake only said that he like Analia because he was excited to see Jamal so happy. No mentioning or comparisons were made about her looks. But Brielle is threatened and wants to lower Analia to a level where she feels like she can compete with her. If Brielle can accomplish this, then she will feel secure again.
Put it in perspective
REWIND
Do either of these scenes sound like anything you’ve ever experienced? expe erienced? They sound like a lot of conversations I’ve e had in my head (and sometimes out loud). I bet, even though itit’s t’s a subconscious thing you could think of a similar experience if you tried tried. No wonder we’re so insecure! We allow our appearance to define who we are and how we treat others. Instead, we should learn how to be secure with ourselves and realize we are all in this battle with our self-image together.
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Artist: Nouveaux Song: Father You Breathe
You can never be too young to learn how to manage your money. Any adult who has jacked up their credit by being negligent of responsibility WISHES they learned how money works. Even when money doesn’t apply to your life since your parents are paying for gas, food, and shopping expenses. Money investing, saving, spending, and earning is such a complex subject to learn. It starts with learning the role money has in your life. Be confident that you’re worth the money you earn. The greatest piece of general advice would be always think long-term.
ONE
know your money
It is ok for you to desire money. It is not ok for you to love money when you are idolizing it. Money does not define you as a person, although it does have a role in who you are and what you will become.
TWO
spending
K h muchh iis iin your bank account (to the cent). It is harder these Know how days to keep track with the convenience of using check/debit cards. I recommend taking out your spending money once a week so you see it in front of you.
THREE
budget
“Every dollar has a name to it. There’s no such thing as extra money” - Dave Ramsey
When you earn money, write out a budget similar to this: The initial item to come out is always tithe. Tithe Income: $870 is 10% of your profits before taxes are taken out Tithe: $93 that are freely given to the Church. (Deuteronomy Rent: $320 Gas: $50 14:22). List your necessities. Make a separate list Phone: $60 of items you would like to purchase but you don’t Living: $100 need which will be included with living expenses. Savings: $247 This will prevent you from making impulsive _________ 0 purchases.
FOUR
savings
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Account. O Once you get the ball rolling, you will become Start a Savings Account excited when you notice your savings $$$ going up, up and up. The more you save, the more you won’t want to spend it; it becomes an accomplishment instead of money. This is when you learn to respect it.
FIVE
the bare minimum
First time I put my budget together I was 17. I was paying for gas, insurance, phone, food, etc. and I did not earn that much. I was able to put $10 into savings at the end of each month. Which is not that much right? Do it anyhow, to train yourself to make a habit of saving for the future. What if you don’t make enough to pay your bills? Increase your income or decrease your spending.
SIX
NSF
If you hhave ever received an NSF before, you probably have a hard time even reading this paragraph. NSF stands for NonSufficient Funds. This occurs when you spend money you DON’T have. This is the bank’s opportunity to take back what you owe them and charge you for it. Your checking account is $-8.20, the bank charges you an additional $30 penalty EACH purchase under $0. If you budget, and you abide by your budget THIS will NEVER happen to you. However, you see that adorable shirt at the mall that you can’t live with out, and you don’t have enough self-control to say no. Always have a cushion under your butt just in case an emergency cost comes up; practice your self-control and don’t buy that lovely shirt. Keep your money in the bank.
SEVEN
work
Always appreciate and be grateful for your job. How well you do your job reflects your character. Show up on time, put 110% into what you get paid to do, and thank God for providing you a way to earn money even if you’re only worth $7 per hour.
EIGHT
barbie
2010!”, “You don’t need a job to buy ““no payments untilil 2010 a car from us!”, You’ve been pre-approved for $7,500!”. Don’t fall for the fake money! I understand if you’re going to school and you need the loan. Before you sign that dotted line for a loan or credit card THINK about what you’re doing and the LONG-TERM affect this will have on your life. After all education is under your belt, training you for that perfect career -you’re going to work years as a slave to your own debt
that you signed upon yourself. I’m not advising you not to go to school, but be aware of the commitment to debt you are making. Save your money to pay for that car in cash. If you can’t make the purchase with your real money in the bank, you cannot afford it. That credit card is more of a desecration of money as buying a Barbie Doll. A little tip to young women: It is not easy to marry someone with a lot of debt.
NINE
be generous
There thatt I d do not feel like tithing. It is hard Th are some checks h k th to put a great portion of money into tithe, especially when you need to repair your car. Always keep in mind, God gave you that job, He can take it away. It all made sense when Tyson was encouraging me to tithe every little thing I was given! My thoughts were: I didn’t earn this money so I shouldn’t have to tithe it! He says, “I pray that I would have more to tithe. If you have more to tithe, somehow God is giving you more money.” That finally put it into a great perspective for me.
TEN
don’t be too generous
I love giving l i i my friends f i d presents t and buying them dinner even when I’m unable to afford it. Do not be too generous. If a friend asks you if they can borrow money, I suggest work out a plan of how they are going to pay you back before you hand them your good hard earned cash. Document it in front of them and don’t be afraid to hold them accountable. If they can’t handle being confronted about owing you money, they do not respect you and I recommend not trusting them too much. history lesson Barter is the exchange off personall possessions of value for other goods. This exchange started at the beginning of humankind and is still used today. Livestock was often used as a unit of exchange. Later, as agriculture developed, people used crops for barter (for example, I could ask another farmer to trade a pound of apples for a pound of bananas) which led to Cowry Shells, to silver which eventually led to paper currency.
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Kristen’s Thoughts: Life is so confusing. Just when you have everything in its place and figured out, you hit an experience you’ve never been through but thought you had a fool-proof plan for. What used to be a peaceful and calm path is suddenly turned dark and terrifying, and you search desperately for a place of refuge, even a night of rest. It’s times like these that humble you and bring you to your knees. You depend on the One you’ve grown to love so deeply, and fall on your face for guidance you know only He can give you. Times alone with God become so important, refreshing and calming that you never again want to take those moments for granted. He speaks to you in vast and unexplained ways. You learn once again that you can stand on your own two feet, and you can fly when God is with you. Faith becomes all you have, and God becomes the only one you trust. It’s times like these, where all you thought you wanted, turns into only wanting God.
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Proverbs 29:25
Have something to say? Become a writer for Jazmin! Email us at beautyspeaks@jazminmag.com Page 53
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CUT THESE CARDS OUT AND HAND THEM OUT TO YOUR FRIENDS!
Credits: To all my staff and close friends, Thank you for holding my hand through this journey so far; I would never be able to do this without you. I thank God for the experiences I have gone through to develop this dream, and in the past, present and future He always remains faithful.
. love. always . Tara Werneke, Director . Staff:
. Tyson Jenkins . Michelle Keen . Jennifer Peterson . Alissa LaVigne . Kayla Schultz . . Joanna Mickelson . Liz Clochie . Kristen Peterson . Vanessa Aleksuk . Writing Staff: . Ashley Simone . Angie Norling . Joanna Mickelson . Rachel Bell . Alissa LaVigne . . Krista Clausen . Kristen Peterson . Freelance Writers: . Rachael Kester . Jen Peterson . Liz Clochie . Susie Larson . Photographers: . J.B. Sather . Tara Werneke .
Sources:
. Eldredge, John and Stasi . Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman’s Soul . Nashville, Nelson Books . 2005 . . Bevere, Lisa . The True Measure of a Woman . Strang Communications Company. 1997 . Parrott, Dr. Les . Helping the Struggling Adolescent . Grand Rapids, Zondervan . 2000 . . Pipher, Mary PH.D . Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls . New York.; Ballantine . 1994 . . Teen Depression . 2005 [online: http://www.teendepression.org/articles5.com] .