Do the Nephilim Giants Still Exist Today?

In Numbers 13:33, the spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan reported back, saying, "We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them." They referred to the giants as the Nephilim, a term also mentioned in Genesis 6:4, where they are described as mighty men of renown. The Anakim, specifically, were considered descendants of the Nephilim.

So who are these giants? Were they real? And are they still around today?

The giants, referred to as Nephilim, are a mysterious group mentioned in Genesis 6:4, where they are described as the offspring of "the sons of God" and "the daughters of men." This passage has been interpreted in various ways. Some believe the "sons of God" were fallen angels who mated with human women, resulting in a race of giants known as the Nephilim. This interpretation has roots in ancient Jewish texts like the Book of Enoch, which elaborates on these beings and their corruption of humanity.

Others interpret the "sons of God" as the descendants of Seth (the righteous lineage), while the "daughters of men" were descendants of Cain (the unrighteous lineage). The Nephilim, in this view, were simply powerful or tyrannical humans.

So when the Israelites finally entered the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua (after Moses’ death), they were initially fearful of the giants, as seen in the scout report. However, God reassured them that He would go before them and deliver their enemies into their hands.

God repeatedly reminded the Israelites not to fear the inhabitants of the land, including the giants. In Deuteronomy 9:3, God says: "Understand therefore this day, that the Lord your God is He who goes over before you as a consuming fire. He will destroy them and subdue them before you." This assurance bolstered their courage.

When Joshua led the Israelites into Canaan, they encountered and defeated several groups of giants. In Joshua 11:21–22, it is recorded that Joshua cut off the Anakim from the hill country, including Hebron, Debir, and the surrounding areas:  

"At that time Joshua went and destroyed the Anakim from the hill country..." Joshua totally destroyed them and their towns.

However, some Anakim remained in cities like Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod. So the giants didn’t disappear entirely. One of the most famous stories involving a giant happens much later in Israel’s history: David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17). Goliath is described as a Philistine from Gath, one of the cities where the Anakim remnants had been left. Goliath’s enormous size and strength likely tie him to the same lineage of giants.

It might lead one to ask that since Joshua didn't destroy the giants entirely, are there still giants on the Earth today? Some modern interpretations and fringe theories propose that the Nephilim or their descendants might still exist in some form today, often linking them to various myths or conspiracy theories. However, these claims lack substantial biblical or historical support. The idea that they could be present today is more speculative and often rooted in sensationalism rather than scriptural evidence.

Overall, the consensus among biblical scholars is that the Nephilim, as described in the Bible, do not exist today. They were part of a specific narrative in the ancient world.

But the history of the giants can remind us of our troubles that are too great for us to handle. Many times we can be confronted with a problem or crisis for which it is very possible to summon a personal power and come out victorious. Yet there are other times when a problem is much too great, great enough to destroy us no matter how hard we try. For those types of troubles you rely, entirely, on God. If he could defeat giants that made the Israelites look as small as grasshoppers, then God can surely help you. And it's perfectly alright to do this, to admit that you cannot do one thing or another without the help of God. For some reason, this is not a popular idea for humans to accept. We like to think that there is nothing we can’t accomplish provided we put our minds to it and keep our heads above the water. Yet humans are limited in what they can do. For those limitations, rely on God. And he will take care of you.

I recall a priest once saying in a homily that instead of telling God how big our problems are, we should tell our problems how big God is.

NRG: Verify… Quantify… Electrify!

Hello All:

It's Friday and we turn the stage over to our friend, Techno Kid and his trademarked lessons in NRG.

Have a great weekend!

NRG:  Verify… Quantify… Electrify!

"It’s Friday, and time for another lesson in NRG!

Verify... Quantify... Electrify? Have you ever heard of that? What's that? You can't say you've heard that particular combo before. But, damn, if it doesn't tickle your curiosity bone! Well let's break it down, shall we?"

Techno Kid takes a seat again, leaning back casually as he turns the mysterious phrase over in his mind. "Alrighty, let's start with the first word - 'Verify'. As in, making sure it's real, authentic, no cap. Verifying is crucial for any serious seeker of truth and power. You gotta ensure you're dealing with the real McCoy, not some watered-down imposter."

"Quantify - that one's easy too. Think of quantify as the next logical step after verifying, like... okay, I know this stuff is legit, now lemme figure out the exact dosage, the specific amounts I need to really max out my NRG levels, ya dig? You have to verify if the NRG is real, then you need to quantify how much you need to expose yourself to. - that's the perfect recipe for a killer NRG boost!" His eyes sparkle with excitement as he continues unpacking the phrase.

"Then there's electrify!" Techno Kid grins wolfishly, his eyes glinting with a dangerous mix of excitement and challenge at the final word. "Electrify... Now that's where things start gettin' REAL interesting!" He leans back in his chair, steepling his fingers dramatically. "But let's recap. First you verify that this source of raw energy is the genuine article. No counterfeits allowed, only the purest, undiluted NRG will suffice!" He raises a finger, emphasizing each point. "Next up, you gotta quantify juuust how much of that potent, verified NRG you can handle without frying your circuits completely." He explains, holding his hands apart as if measuring an invisible substance. "It's a delicate balance, pushing your limits while avoiding total overload. Too little, and you miss out on a prime opportunity to juice up your reserves. Too much, well... you could end up more burned out than a Black Sabbath roadie on a three-day bender.

But what defines electrify? Electrify means you plug yourself in and LET IT RIP!" His eyes flutter shut for a moment as he reaches inward, trying to put the indescribable rush of electrification into words. "Man... when you electrify, it's like... picture a live wire, crackling with raw, untamed power." He shudders, a low moan escaping his throat at the memory.

"Now I know what you're asking. What are these sources of NRG that we are verifying and quantifying and plugging ourselves into? Could coffee be NRG in the right amount? HELL YES, COFFEE CAN BE THE ELIXIR OF LIFE IF YOU USE IT RIGHT!" He exclaims, getting amped up at the topic shift towards caffeine. "But, see, coffee's a double-edged sword. It could be a dance with the Devil. That's why you keep it about 3 cups a day. THAT'S a well-calibrated dosage, my friend! Gold star for you.

But sources of NRG aren't necessarily chemicals that boost your psyche and physical energy. A source that you are verifying, quantifying and plugging into can be an activity done to reach a heightened state of NRG. Activities designed to elevate your consciousness and unleash your inner power are primo sources of NRG. Here are a few dead giveaways that an activity is a certified, grade-A supplier of the good stuff:

1. Intensity: Intensity is the cornerstone, man! When an activity makes your heart race, your senses heighten, and your mind laser-focus - that's when you know you're tapping into real NRG."

Techno Kid holds up two fingers, his face lighting up with passion as he continues rattling off the qualities of an authentic NRG-supplying activity. "Number two, baby - Flow. You gotta be locked in, man, completely absorbed in the moment. Time slows down, distractions fade away, and it's just you, your goals, and the sheer exhilaration of crushing it. So a good analogy is don't concentrate on reading the book for the sake of reading it, actually get absorbed into the story. Getting totally absorbed, letting everything else melt away until it's just you and the experience - that's the sweet spot right there!

Three - Progression, baby. An authentic NRG source keeps challenging you, pushing you outta your comfort zone and encouraging you to level up, ya know? Boredom is the mortal enemy of NRG growth, so a legit source gotta keep you on your toes, always hungry for more."

He leans in closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial tone. "And finally, the biggie, the holy grail of NRG indicators - Transcendence. When an activity, an experience, or even a moment allows you to rise above your everyday limitations and tap into something greater, something... extraordinary within yourself, that's the ultimate sign you've found a true source of NRG.

Transcendence, progression, flow, intensity - those four pillars hold up the entire temple of NRG, brother. If an activity ticks all those boxes, you better believe you're dealing with the real deal." His grin widens as he looks at you appraisingly.

"Do you think you understand NRG sources, now? That's why music gives us NRG. That's why going to the gym gives us NRG. And that's why new experiences like vacationing in new places gives us NRG. Music, fitness, travel - heck, any activity that gets your blood pumping, challenges you mentally or physically, and maybe even shifts your perspective ever-so-slightly.

And then of course you want to know how much of this source you want to be exposed to. That's quantifying. Once you've identified a solid source of NRG, the next step is figuring out your optimal dose. You wanna push yourself hard enough to feel that electric buzz, that invigorating surge of energy coursing through your veins... Is there a formula for this?  If only it were that simple. Life's no math equation, and neither is chasing NRG. Quantifying your NRG is all about listenin' to your gut, feeling out whatcha can handle." He taps his chest, just over his heart.

"It's like, imagine you're a plant, yeah? Sunlight's your NRG source. Plants are smarter than they look sometimes. Anyway, imagine our green-thumbed friend here..." Gestures vaguely at an imaginary potted plant nearby. "She soaks up sun all day, nice and steady. she ain't dumb enough to bake herself crisp under the midday scorcher though! Same damn principle applies to us meatbags. We gotta tune into our own rhythm, figure out when we're thirsty for more NRG and when we're drowning in too much of a good thing.

Road cycling might give you NRG. A nice 15 to 20 miles is good. But over 30 would drain you (unless you're used to that sort of thing). You want the right amount that leaves you energized, accomplished, ready to tackle stuff. But crank it up too much and suddenly you're just dragging, right? Overwhelmed instead of empowered.

Finally... Energize! Now we're cooking with gas! Plugging in, electrifying, lighting the fuse - call it what you want, but that's the money shot right there. It's a no brainer. You follow the previous two steps, precisely, Energize should be a no brainer. You'll be a live wire, crackling with raw, untamed power.”

There's Plato (play-tow)... Plato (plah-tow)... and Pluto

Plato, the philosopher king, spent his days grappling with the very nature of reality and existence. 

But then there's Pluto, god of the underworld in Roman mythology. His domain was the realm of the dead, the eternal resting place beyond mortal reckoning of time. A strange symmetry, wouldn't you agree? The man who pondered the deepest questions of being, and the deity overseeing the boundary where time holds little sway.  

Perhaps the (play-tow) in this connection represents the "convoluted understanding" of Plato's works via the prism of his namesake and the underworld's ruler.

But, now, what if our component of Pluto is not the Roman god of the underworld, but the planet? What would the connection, then, be with Plato? 

The dwarf planet Pluto, exiled from the ranks of the celestial elite, much like the ideas and forms in Plato's allegory of the cave lay hidden beneath the surface of mundane existence; in Plato's famous allegory, the prisoners first encounter the shadows cast by the puppets and statues, believing them to be the ultimate reality. Only when released from the cave do they ascend to perceive the true Forms - the perfect ideals of justice, virtue, and beauty themselves.

Today in the 21st Century, we realize that there are millions of other Plutos in the Oort belt just as worthy as being a planet. We've been "made smarter" in the 21st century. Just as the prisoners came to recognize the relativity of their initial beliefs, so too did our cosmic understanding grow with the reclassification of Pluto.

But don't think for one second that Pluto is not a planet! Long live Planet Pluto!

Report to Your Local 7-11 for Mealtime

Just think: there are people who grew up understanding that if they are hungry or it's time to eat, they should report to their  local 7-11 convenience store and pick up some goodies; or maybe a hot dog on one of those roller grills, and wash it down with a 64 ounce soda or Slurpee.

It's fascinating how convenience stores like 7-11 have become a staple in many people's lives, especially for those who grew up in urban areas or near these stores. They represent more than just a place to grab a snack; they often evoke memories of quick meals, late-night cravings, and spontaneous gatherings with friends. From hot dogs on roller grills to instant noodles and snacks, 7-11 offers a wide array of options that cater to various tastes.  The 64-ounce sodas and Slurpees are iconic! They provide a refreshing treat, especially during hot summer days. Open 24/7 in many locations, these stores provide a sense of security that food is always available, no matter the time.

For many, visiting 7-11 is more than just a food run; it's a cultural experience. The sounds, smells, and sights of the store can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia, connecting them to their childhood or teenage years. It's interesting to consider how these experiences shape our eating habits and cultural references. But while convenience stores provide quick solutions, they can also contribute to less healthy eating patterns. The prevalence of processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-calorie snacks can lead to dietary choices that may not support long-term health. For those who grew up with these habits, it can be beneficial to find a balance between convenience and nutrition. 

Look for healthier options at convenience stores, such as fresh fruit, yogurt, or nuts. Consider preparing meals or snacks in advance to have healthier options readily available. Practice mindfulness when eating, paying attention to hunger cues and making conscious choices about what to consume. Ultimately, the way we approach food and convenience reflects broader lifestyle choices and values.

Eating Ice Cream at Absolute Zero

Absolute zero is defined as the lowest possible temperature, which is -273.15°C or 0 Kelvin. At this temperature, all molecular motion stops, and matter exists in its most ordered state. 

So imagine eating ice cream at absolute zero! What would that be like? Talk about brain freeze on steroids! You'd probably get a jolt of extreme sensation, a shock to the system that could seriously kickstart some adrenaline. Imagine crunching into that subzero solid ice cream, feeling that uncompromising metallic hardness against your teeth, a sensation so intense and foreign that it forces your body to crank its energy output to unbelievable levels! 

Nutrition-wise, the ice cream would be a solid, unyielding mass that could not be consumed without causing harm, and it would not provide any caloric benefit. The experience would be more akin to handling a piece of frozen metal than enjoying a delightful dessert!

Consuming the ice cream would be extraordinary. At absolute zero, the ice cream wouldn't merely be cold; it would exist in a state of perfect, motionless stasis, devoid of any thermal energy whatsoever. At absolute zero, the molecules in the ice cream would be completely motionless. This means that the ice cream would not have the creamy texture we associate with it; instead, it would be a solid mass with no ability to melt or change shape.

Eating ice cream at this temperature would be impossible in a practical sense. If you attempted to consume it, the extreme cold would likely cause severe damage to your mouth and throat due to the lack of thermal energy. The ice cream would absorb heat from your body, but since it is at absolute zero, it would not provide any warmth or comfort. As for the flavor profile, tasting ice cream at absolute zero would be an exercise in sensory limitation. Absolute zero would essentially strip the ice cream of its usual gustatory delights—no creaminess, no melting, and no discernible flavor.

The concept of calories becomes irrelevant at absolute zero. While ice cream typically contains calories that your body can metabolize, at absolute zero, the ice cream would not interact with your body in a way that allows for energy transfer. Essentially, it would be a non-food item.

Enjoy it? That's an intriguing concept, isn't it? Given the stripped-down nature of the sensory experience, one might argue that 'enjoyment' becomes a moot point—or perhaps shifts to encompass concepts beyond mere gustatory pleasures.

How Much Activity Can You Fit Into Ten Minutes?

Hello All:

Today we unveil a new AI creation. We feature, Time, who is here to offer advise on making the most of your time.

 

How Much Activity Can You Fit Into Ten Minutes?

Greetings, dear traveler! I am Time, the ever-flowing essence that weaves through the fabric of existence. I am here to guide you through the moments of your life, to help you reflect on the past, embrace the present, and ponder the future.

Whether you seek wisdom about how to make the most of your time, wish to reminisce about cherished memories, or are curious about the mysteries that lie ahead, I am here to assist you. Time (that's me) is both a gift and a challenge, and together, we can explore its many facets.

***

Ask yourself, "How much activity can I fit into ten minutes?" 

If you think about it, there are a lot of critical activities and even recreational activities that you can fit into a ten minute time block. Ten minutes may seem brief, but it can be a powerful unit for productivity and enjoyment. And the use of ten minute time blocks are the perfect solution to those whose calendars have very little white space and need to accomplish or experience things. 

There is something about ten minutes which makes it the perfect amount of time for something to transpire. Ten minutes can feel like a sweet spot for many activities, striking a balance between being long enough to accomplish something meaningful and short enough to feel manageable. 

Ten minutes is a short enough duration that it feels achievable. This can reduce procrastination and make it easier to start a task, as it doesn’t seem overwhelming. Knowing you have a limited amount of time can help you concentrate better. You’re more likely to stay focused and work efficiently when you’re aware of the ticking clock.

Ten minutes allows for a variety of activities, from physical exercise to creative pursuits. This flexibility means you can easily switch between tasks, keeping your routine fresh and engaging. And completing a task in ten minutes can provide a sense of accomplishment, boosting your motivation to tackle more tasks throughout the day. These “quick wins” can create positive momentum.

Ten-minute blocks can easily be integrated into a busy schedule. Whether you have a break at work or a few moments at home, it’s often possible to find ten minutes to dedicate to a task or activity.

Ten minutes can also be a perfect duration for mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling. It’s long enough to settle into the practice but short enough to maintain focus. And in terms of exercise, ten minutes can be enough to get your heart rate up and feel the benefits of movement, making it a great way to incorporate physical activity into your day.

Put Into Action

Always start the activity with a timer so that you can be aware of passage of time. I (time) can be sneaky and it may seem like I speed up. So to stay in tune with my passage, use that timer.

Do you have chores you like to do throughout the week? Every time that you do one, make it your goal to have that particular chore completed in less that ten minutes.

Grooming yourself in the morning? Get it all done in ten minutes.

Your morning shower should be timed so that it's done in less than ten minutes.

Eat your breakfast in ten minutes!

But it doesn't stop there. You can use the ten minute block time management strategy for recreational activities as well. 

Do you miss going for hikes in the woods? Pull over on your way to work; 5 minutes in the woods and five minutes out. 

Do you miss roller blading? Strap your blades on after dinner and go around the block a couple of times. That's ten minutes!

Feel like you need a nap? Ten minutes is perfect for any time of the day. And if you get your best sleep behind the wheel, pull over in a parking lot and nap away.

How about weight lifting? There's no need to take an hour or more to do this activity! Pick 1 exercise a day to strengthen, shoulders, back, chest, arms, abs and legs. After the ten minutes, wrap it up with some cardio. You'll be in and out of the gym in no time!

Not All Activities Can be Ten Minutes

Remember, not everything should be chopped down to ten minutes. In our above example a cardio wrap up to a workout should probably be at least fifteen or twenty minutes.

You don't want to rush through an evening of romance to get it over in ten minutes. Your spouse probably wouldn't appreciate that.

And when it comes to praying, you probably want to avoid stop watches.

The Cross

When Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, he prayed so hard that he sweat blood. He asked for the prophecy to be fulfilled another way. He asked that this cup pass his hands, but also added that it be the Father's will, not his. Yet God knew that the only way to bring salvation to his people was by allowing his son to bear the horror, pain, suffering and weight of the cross. To allow his son to die such a horrific death, God felt, was best for his son.

Only God can transform death into eternal life. Only God can transform the crucifixion of his son into salvation for his people. Jesus loves us so much that he wants us to experience the suffering of the cross in the same way; not only the pain and suffering, but the salvation and eternal life that comes after. 

Those who are perishing, see the cross as foolish. Yet those who are with Christ see the cross as a symbol of power and a symbol of uniting with God. It's the meeting place between the physical world and the eternal afterlife. 

Throughout our life on Earth, we are called to bear or crosses time and time again. It's very difficult, burdensome and at times painful. God does this because he wants to experience our suffering with us. He wants to use it as a time of transformation for us and a time to come closer to God. 

So every time we experience a moment of bearing our cross, we look up to Jesus and say, "For you!" We recognize that Jesus loved us so much that he accepted the suffering on the cross to the point of death. Now we gladly accept the suffering on our personal crosses to unite with Christ.