Faith on Fire

Mexico

2012-02-09T04:24:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry I have not kept you updated and written a response to my last post. I have been in Mexico and once I get a chance I will post it as soon as I can. Right now I am on my way home from Toronto, hope all goes well.

God Bless

...:::Cassandra Falun:::...

Think About It

2012-01-25T22:16:00.000-08:00

I am going to post just one question and then I will post some things in my next blog post. I think everybody should think about this question long and hard before responding right away.

Why do we as humans, do the most minimum to get to heaven (eternal life)?

I'll keep you posted.

Cassandra Falun

Past

2012-01-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

I know I am not supposed to look at the past and I'm pretty good and that. What if I screwed up really bad... I mean really really bad and I have been thinking about that lately and it makes me cry. Even though it was a while ago. It bugs me when people say, "Are you alright?" But, now I feel like a need help. Period.

Cassandra Falun

Always Forgiveness

2012-01-18T00:47:00.000-08:00

Nice and short today. I think anyways :/ haha

“Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. The angel said to those who were standing before him, “Take off his filthy clothes.” Then he said to Joshua, “See, I have taken away your sin, and put rich garments on you.” Then I said, “Put a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him while the angel of the LORD stood by.”

~Zechariah 3:3-5

Ahh, there’s nothing like a long, hot shower to make you feel clean. But, there are some things you can’t get clean from, no matter how many showers you take. The wrong things we do leave stains that can’t be scrubbed away or hidden. It’s like we’re standing around in filthy clothes, like the clothes Joshua the highest priest wore in this vision. Only God’s method of stain removal can do the trick. He not only cleans us up, but he also provides a new wardrobe for us. Ready to get rid of some old rags? Confess your sins, and ask for God’s cleansing.

Love Notes

Shout! Exclaim! Cry out! Yell! Cheer! Applaud! Roar! Stomp and dance! The day is coming when my Son will return and live with you! The time to celebrate is near!—God Almighty

Cassandra Falun

P.S.

“So he said to me, “This is the wowrd of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might or power, but by my spirit,’ says the LORD almighty.”

~Zechariah 4:6

Want to serve God? First, quit obsessing over what YOU can do for God (as if he needs your money and talents). Then ask yourself, “What will God do through me?”

Miracles Are Possible

2012-01-16T22:28:00.000-08:00

As I lie in bed staring at the ceiling all I can do is think how things could be different. I think about it all the time, my epilepsy and all. I have been having highs and lows in life and I don’t think that is different than any other person. In the past three and a half years I have been in and out of the hospital or getting blood tests or getting more medications more times than I can count. But, every day I am starting to realise God has a purpose and a way for me to use this disability to show to others how it doesn’t have to change up your life if you don’t let it. Yes, things may change physically, but you will always be you. God has used me to bring people to God and to church. I have been able to share my story and answer the question why are you happy all the time? How can you always smile? I was able to show the strength inside me and the one person who was holding it all together, my God.

My G.O.D is B.I.G!

I have been happy to say that miracles are possible if you just believe. I have been seizure free for almost one year. YAII!!! But, here comes another speed bump. My body can’t stay awake for more than eight hours. I had more blood test, kidney test, liver test, the whole deal. I am happy to say that it is minor but it includes more medication. My iron is at sixteen when it should be at fifty or so and my one medication that controls a lot of my body, Valproic Acid is at two hundred and eighty-seven when it should be between three hundred and fifty and seven hundred.

God gave my little body strength to be a fighter when I was born early and given seventy-two hours to live. He has a purpose for me and I discover more of it day by day.

Keep your chin up because nothing is impossible with God. {Add a little faith}

Cassandra Falun

Prayer

2012-01-15T23:36:00.001-08:00

“Remember, O LORD, what has happened to us; look, and see our disgrace. Our inheritance has been turned over to aliens, our homes for foreigners. We have become orphans and fatherless, our mothers like widows. We must buy the water we drink; our wood can be had only at a price. Those who pursue us are at our heels; we are weary and find no rest. We submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread, our fathers sinned and are no more, and we bear their punishment. Slaves rule over us, and there is none to free us from their hands. We get our bread at the risk of our lives because of the sword in the desert. Our skin is hot as an oven, feverish from hunger. Women have been ravished in Zion, and virgins in the towns of Judah. Princes have been hung up by their hands; elders are shown no respect. Young men toil at the millstones; boys stagger under loads of wood. The elders are gone from the city gat; the young men have stopped their music. Joy is gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning. The crown has fallen from our head. Woe to us, for we have sinned! Because of this our hearts are faint, because of these things our eyes grow dim for Mount Zion, which lies desolate, with jackals prowling over it. You, O LORD, reign forever; your throne endures from generation to generation. Why do you always forget us? Why do you forsake us so long? Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may return; renew our days as of old unless you have utterly rejected us and are angry with us beyond measure.”

~Lamentations 5:1-22

What do you think prayer is? A list of “thees” and “thous”? Perfectly polished speeches? When Jeremiah poured out his heart to God about his people he didn’t try to impress God with fancy words. Yet his pleas were heartfelt—he rattled off a list of every care and concern on his mind, And he never resorted to whining or disrespect. Believe it or not, God finds that kind of prayer refreshing. He wants you to come to him as you are—not as you think you should be. He wants real communication from the real you. Really.

Love Notes

Don’t set your expectations too low for me. Don’t just give me easy, surface-level questions. Bring me your biggest problems, your toughest challenges, your deepest questions. I’ll answer you—and I’ll blow your mind in the process. –Your all-powerful Father

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

~Jeremiah 33:3

Cassandra Falun

P.S.

This is what the LORD says: ‘You say about this place, “It is a desolate waste, without men or animals.” Yet in the towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem that are deserted, inhabited by neither men nor animals, there will be heard once more the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those who bring thank offerings to the house of the LORD, saying, “Give thanks to the LORD Almighty, for the LORD is good; his love endures forever.” For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were before,’ says the LORD.

~Jeremiah 33:10-11

There’s never a reason to give up hope. What areas in your life do you feel are dead and useless? Add a little faith. God can bring new life.

Hope

2012-01-15T20:50:00.001-08:00

“I remember my affliction and wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I will remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD’S great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great in your faithfulness.”

~Lamentations 3:19-23

Few people go through life on planet Earth without feeling the blues every now and then. Can you relate? What was the last thing that made you feel down in the dumps? Because of his people’s sin and their punishment, Jeremiah felt very depressed and hopeless. But remembering God’s faithfulness turned his hopelessness into hope. Feeling hopeless? How has God been faithful to you in the past? Since you do know he helped you in the past, do you think that he’ll let you down now?

Love Notes

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

~Isaiah 40:29-31

When you’re feeling worn out and beaten down, come to me. I will refresh you so that you can walk, run, even soar with renewed strength! --Your Hope and Strength

Cassandra Falun

P.S.

“I have seen something else under the sun; The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or faavor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.”

~Ecclesiastes 9:11

Why does everyone expect life to be fair, when it rarely ever is? In this sinful world, life isn’t always fair—your response to life is what matters most.

The Help

2012-01-14T23:47:00.000-08:00

I now understand.

Many, many years ago white people took advantage of black people. We call it racist. The women were house slaves or house maids some of them were beaten. You were never allowed to share a restroom with a black person for they gave ‘diseases’. We told them off like they were nothing, like they didn’t exist; when in reality they are just like you and me. They were never given the credit for raising the white’s children, those little girls and boys didn’t have parents. They were loved and cared for by the maid and those children would say that they were there parents and that they loved them. It breaks hearts, but the Moms were never around to realize what their kids were saying or what their feelings were. They may be little but they are not stupid.

If you were caught talking with a black person personally or befriending them you could be arrested. Why so? Because they were nothing but scum bags. No one cared about them or their own families.

I am really embarrassed to be white. We are all under one label for a reason and we will be under this label forever. Not everyone believes today that the black are good people. It took courage of one person to make the white realize that the black weren’t bad people, they had hearts of gold. That person risked their life by writing the story of many black women’s lives, but those stories made us realize that there needs to be change.

God had provided faith for the black women to stay strong and courage to those who stood out and wrote their stories. He will always be there for you, you just need to open your eyes and see that we aren’t different we are just people. We may have different shoe sizes or different personalities or different looks or different color skin, but we were created in God’s image and we are all beautiful.

Cassandra Falun

P.S.

Watch The Help. It’s based on a true story. It relates to this and will be able to explain it in story form you can also read the book. Don’t miss out on hearing the amazing stories and to look at life from the outside.

Christmas

2011-12-20T00:16:00.000-08:00

One Minute Sermon by Tamara Lowe

2011-10-27T22:54:00.000-07:00

To be a Survivor in this Amazing Race with a Need for Speed, you need God's grace. And if you're Desperate like Housewives watching Days of our Lives, you can't cope without hope and that's not on a soap.
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If you're looking to Oprah or Dr. Phil, you can shop non-stop or pop a pill but the void won't fill and the pain won't heal 'til you love the One that hung on a hill.
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Kick 'em back in your La-Z-Boy Easy Chair watching Who Want's To Be A Millionaire. Nah! You're not gonna find it there. No American Idol or Council Tribal has the final answer that will satisfy you. CSI aint got a clue. SVU don't know what to do. Not the ER, the OC, nothing on a CD, TV, DVD, or MP3 can save you and me. CNN's got no Good News. Here's the headline, "YOU MUST CHOOSE."
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It's not a simple life Paris Hilton. It's treading on thin ice living in sin. You can be an Apprentice for Donald Trump or eat Fear Factor fast food from a dump. You can be a Heavy Hitter or Wheel of Fortune winner, a Fox News no-spin spinner or flat out sinner, but you better check this life that you're livin' and make sure your sins are forgiven.
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I bet you 50 Cents: Elvis done, came and went. And eventually every Black-Eyed Pea, Gwen Stefani, P-Diddy and Britney, every wanna-be on MTV with their Icy Bling, every Dixie Chick that sings, they all gonna see the King of Kings. I don't care if you're J Lo, Leno, or Bono. One thing you gotta know, someday you're gonna die bro. Then where are you gonna go?
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Hey, I'm not talking some punk junk that is irrelevant like your Grandma's church from way back when. It's not some preacher feature on TBN that you need to be liking or listening. The real Superstar is Jesus Christ. He's the Way, He's the Truth, and the Life. One day he's going to split the sky. He is the Brightest Light and the Highest High.
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And so, what I came to say and what I'm telling you is don't buy that stupid stuff they be selling you. It's all designed to fill your head and waste your space until you're dead. Here's the bottom line in my rhyme -- Give your life to God while there is still time.

Very Inspiring.

Cassandra Falun <3

Thanksgiving

2011-10-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for a merciful God. The supplier of peace. Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power, & love our God is an awesome God. I am thankful for the wonderful people he has surrounded me with. You guys are amazing and I am wishing that God will give you a great, fantastic Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving to all <3 Spread the love
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Love Always & Forever,
Cassandra Falun

Sexual Healing

2011-10-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

---~So lets look at the subject, I’ll tell you why I’m disgusted. So tonight SEX will be the topic of our discussion. So see sex isn’t evil, for marriage is why God made it. But, I know you’re gunna be like oh come on man that is so out dated! This is 2011 bro we do it for recreation. And heyy when you’re in college you do it while you’re wasted. But, I wanna question this logic. I wanna pop off the seal. I wanna question something that we already think is a done deal. So take a rape victim for example and once its revealed. When her bruises go away is she really healed? Nahh the damage has lasted, you can see it in her eyes. But, if it was abused recreation why did it ruin her life? I mean if sex is just for fun, why does it take such a tole? Maybe it’s because you don’t just have sex with a body, you have sex with a soul. Which for me there ain’t no premarital lovin. It ain’t just cause I don’t want a baby in the oven, it’s because I want to stay pure till the day that I am a husband. But see this wasn’t always me. That’s a guarantee. Let’s go back in the past and see who I used to be. Now, growing up I never learned how to treat a lady. If I learned one thing from my Dad, it would be to leave the mom ditch the baby. I don’t say that to get sympathy I say that to be real. ‘Cause according to stats about %40 of you know how that feels. So I let the TV show me what the music already told me. No Dad at home so I was letting MTV mould me. They sold me, so my life revolved around what girl I could get next. My life revolved around this girl named SEX. Sure I’d get her out on the text, but I have to confess, it seemed the longer we dated the bigger the mess. Then my girlfriend was late on that time of the month. If you know what I mean you’ll understand why my heart sunk. I started to think about abortion, I started to butter it up. But it’s funny they don’t make condoms for sin, you can’t just cover it up. It was just a scare but I knew a father I did not wanna be. It was funny how it was pro life until it happened to me. So dudes think twice before you desire her just because she’s hott. The truth is your body makes a promise whether you do or not. Sorry lets get back to the main topic. There are dudes who pressure her even when she says stop it. You’re not a man, you’re just a boy who can shave and put on a good cover. ‘Cause if you don’t respect her when she says no, then you certainly don’t love her. So start studying her heart and stop studying her booty or maybe invest the same amount of time in her that you do in Call Of Duty. What makes you think you can get this girl and all the sudden get naughty? ‘Cause you should have to touch her heart and mind first before you ever touch her body. She longs to be excepted, she longs to be loved. So, she gives herself up for another guys lust. She thinks it feels good at first, but then she gets bitter. ‘Cause the promise of satisfaction never delivers. She’s like I don’t want to, but it’s just too tempting. So she keeps opening up the present just to find that it’s empty. And then she starts to get confused. She keeps getting rejected by all these dudes. They tell her on a scale of 1-10 she is a 2. But that ain’t true. If she only knew, that Jesus, He loves and respects us. Even when you don’t want Him, He will never reject us. He heals us from that sin that totally infects us. He does what condoms can’t, He emotionally protects us. I know that some of you who hear this are gunna wanna endight me. But we gotta think rightly so I’m gunna ask politely. Can you even really say this isn’t true? Just slightly. I mean we touch the forbidden fruit not to realize that it is poison ivy. Now we’re numb and we’re itchin and we got a distorted psychy. You don’t think you just do it like your name was Nike. Not realizing the prices of you actions are oh so pricey. This last story though is for those who think they’re too dirty. This last story though is for those who think they’re unworthy. Read John chapter 8, the woman caught in adultery. The religious leader throws her naked in the temple while she yells don’t murder me! They say Jesus the law commands us to stone this woman and you hear the hate in their tone. Jesus pauses and says, “for who it is without sin, you can cast the first stone.” I mean can you imagine the sound of silence all around. You hear footsteps walk away and you hear stones hit the ground. Then Jesus kneels down and the woman thought it was her demise. He lifts up her face, you can see the grace within his eyes. He says, “I don’t condemn you, go and sin no more. I love you. I accept you. Mercy is yours.” But if you’re anything like me, you’ll be like no that can’t be. Why would he ever die for me? See but then I saw that scene where I was redeemed. He reached out and touched me and said Jeff you’re free! Instantly I was wearing the brightest robe I had ever seen. I was perfectly spotless, I was perfectly clean. So bright in fact I thought I’d go blind. I said whose is this and He said actually it’s mine. So think twice before you eat wat society feeds us. Come follow the king, His name is Jesus.~---

I found this touching and something worth sharing. A student wrote that speech.

Love Always & Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Lost Generation

2011-09-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

I am part of a lost generation

I realize this may be a shock but

“Happiness comes from within”

Is a lie, and

“Money will make me happy”

So in 30 years I will tell my children

They are not the most important thing in my life.

My employer will know that I have my priorities straight because

work

is more important than

family

I tell you this

Once upon a time

Families stayed together

But this will not be true in my era

This is a quick fix society

Experts tell me

30 years from now I will be celebrating my 10^th anniversary of my divorce

I do not concede that

I will live in a country of my own making

in the future

environmental destruction will be the norm.

No longer can it be said that

My peers and I care about this earth

It will be evident that

My generation is apathetic and lethargic

It is foolish to presume that

There is hope.

And all of this will come true unless we choose to reverse it.

There is hope.

It is foolish to presume that

My generation is apathetic and lethargic

It will be evident that

My peers and I care about this earth

No longer can it be said that

Environmental destruction will be the norm.

In the future

I will live in a country of my own making.

I do not concede that

30 years from now I will be celebrating my 10^th anniversary of my divorce

Experts tell me

This is a quick fix society

But this will not be true in my era

Families stayed together

Once upon a time.

I tell you this

Family

Is more important than work

My employer will know that I have my priorities straight because

They are not the most important thing in my life,

So in 30 years I will tell my children

“Money will make me happy”

Is a lie, and

“Happiness comes from within”.

I realize this may be a shock but

I can change the world and so can you.

~Unknown

Inspiration ~ Hope

2011-09-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

"My name is Serena and I'm eleven years old and I have a disease called Primary Immune Disorder. Your bodies produce millions of white blood cells everyday, well mine only produces hundreds and my immune system doesn't work right and so in order to help I'm getting infusions. Prier to getting sick I could go to church on Wednesdays to be part of the choir for the kids, it was really fine and I could go to church on Sundays also. I wasn't sick every weekend and I didn't have to get infusions and I could play outside with my friends, have sleepovers, go to birthday parties like any normal kid could do. I can't go to birthday parties no more, I can't have sleepovers, I can't even go to my families birthday parties unless it's on a school night because I'm sick every weekend 'cause I get infusions. It's really hard because I don't even get to go to church anymore and that's something I really miss doing. This January my father died on a Thursday... he killed himself in Washington, Pennsylvania. The Police came to our house and my mother went out to talk to him and then she came back into the house with the officer and he was asking questions. My mom told me that something might have happened to daddy. She continued to talk to the Police and a few minutes later she told me he was dead and so I ran up to my room and cried. Now just recently my papa just passed away. Since my dad had died he was very close to me, he was like another father to me and I was very close to him. I was crying, I cried the whole way there and I went and sat on the lil' bench. I couldn't go into the house because the body was still there and I couldn't handle that. Momma went in there to help nana and I just sat on the bench and kept crying. I got to a point where I couldn't cry anymore and I just sat there. I sat there and thought about him... it was really sad. I know some of you know me, I know a lot of you know me because I used to go into church with my little mask on and shake everyone's hands, hugged the preacher and go sit down before the music ended. I miss you. I miss all of you, shaking your hands, hugging you and seeing you. I miss it all. These treatments aren't working. They're not working, I am still getting sick a lot. I need you to pray for me and I need you to think of me... and all of that. My favorite verse is {Hebrew 13:5 -- Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, cause God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."} This gives you a sense of comfort because he's always there, even when you think you are alone and you think no one understands... well he does! I'm not angry with God. I know He can do it, He will do it. I just have to have faith and believe in him, if I do he will heal me. It just takes some time."

This girl is an inspiration. She gave me hope as I struggle with everything that I find wrong with me. Trust, faith and belief is all I need and I say it millions of times in one day. He will heal me... but it all takes time. Thanks for everyone that has been there for me and praying for me I appreciate it. This little girl doesn't know us, but she needs prayer. We want to thank God for this little life and we pray that you will remove this obstacle, pray that you will cleanse her and set her free of all sicknesses. Jesus name...

Keep Serena in mind. <3

Love Always and Forever,
Cassandra Falun

Graduated o_O

2011-09-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

Being graduated has made me more scared then ever. I am jobless, no one will hire me and I am prayin to God that this last interview will help me start my future.

Bein graduated:
-- makes me feel the pressure of movin out... but I can't afford it.
-- makes me wonder how I will be able to pay for my medication.
-- makes me think on how will I be able to go/get to school when I decide to go back.
-- makes me overwhelmed on how will I be able to survive not having a drivers license.
-- makes me think on how this will all turn out when it's all put together.
-- makes me wish that I just was back in elementary school when the biggest problem was deciding what color to use on a picture.
-- makes me think about how many times a day I use the word 'I'. How selfish I have become, when there are millions of others out there who don't even have the ability to go to school or even get to eat for that matter. Why don't I put everything in God's hands and trust/ believe he will help/ lead me in the right direction?
-- makes me scared.

I'm falling apart and I have lost my path... I know where to go, but I always get mad at myself for letting myself stray off so far... to do the things I did. I'm not proud.

But my favorite quote that I even put in my last post was:

"I don't have to know your name to know your pain...
I have my own.
I don't have to see your home to know your shame...
I have my own.
But someone loved me just the way I am,
And someone loves you just the way you are."
~Reggie Dabbs

That someone will always be in my heart... I asked him to be when I was 5 and he hasn't left my side.

Love Always & Forever ...:::Cassandra Falun:::...

Past, Present, Future

2011-08-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

I have been reading this amazing book called "Reggie." There are so many ups and downs, it kind of reminds of my life in a sense. He is one of the best motivational speakers world wide. I saw him at YC (Youth Conference) which occurs every summer in Edmonton. I went for 4 consecutive years in a row. When he wrote this book it was/is an inspiration, bout his life and how he found his calling. He found it through listening. Hearing and listening are two totally different things. I think that is what one of societies or even maybe the problem between us and God. We are hearing but we aren't listening to what He wants us to fulfill.

It's the same with teachers or parents, people in authority. But, we also need to see that those who have nobody, they need someone to talk to. They can find anyone to hear them out, but it's rare for them to find someone who will sit down with them and listen, to encourage and give them advice.

Reggie loved football in High School... but, he wasn't floating around so well with the teachers. When an English teacher told him to write a poem about something he loved, this is what he said.

"I love football, yes I do. I love football, how 'bout you?"

The teacher didn't find it good, just found it silly. She wanted him to find depth, purpose underneath that poem. She gave him a second chance and it had to be handed in the next day. Like any kid who went to school doesn't like studying or homework and so he forgot to do it. He remembered right before his class and wrote the first thing on his mind, it went like this.

"I don't have to know your name to know your pain...
I have my own.
I don't have to see your home to know your shame...
I have my own.
But someone loved me just the way I am,
And someone loves you just the way you are."

It shows how much we over think, over analyze things. We as people just have to realize that it can be simple, yes simple. Simple little thoughts can show us what can lye in our future if we let God lead us with His strength.
_______________________________________________________

Love Always and Forever,
Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

"You cannot change what has already happened. Good or bad, what is behind you is finished--you cannot take it back." ~Reggie Dabbs

We need to not worry 'bout what happened yesterday or way back when, or think 'bout our future too hard. We need to focus and live today as if it was our last.

Graduation

2011-08-27T02:49:00.000-07:00

Wow!
:.
I can't believe I did it.
I went from being in Kindergarten and saying, "I can't wait till I'm done school!", and now I am a Graduated student of 2011 saying, "What do I do now?!". All these school years have gone by, the good times and the bad, crying and laughter, fighting and playing, obeying and disobeying (I was good at the second one o:) . No matter all the struggles I know I got through it by fighting and being determined to finish what I started, to see my future start to unfold.
:.
I did it!
Now I am just going and looking for a full time day job, just so I can relax for a year or two before I go straight into school. Maybe I will have a better thought on what I really want to do, something that shows who -I- am.
:.
Hope everyone has had a fantastic summer and good luck to the parents out there that are sending their kids back into school.
:.
Love yall!
:.
...:::Cassandra Falun:::... :)

Everything Has Changed

2011-02-20T08:25:00.001-08:00

Everything has changed,

I feel empty inside.

The love I have for him was discovered,

I miss him so much!

The days we spent together were a blast.

I will never forget his smile,

The never ending laughter from his jokes,

I will love him forever!

My bro will always have the key to my heart.

Everyday I wake up

And I still can’t believe he is gone.

My bro,

My best friend,

The guy I miss fighting with,

Chillin with,

I miss his personality,

Overall I just want him back!

Without him,

My life is just not the same.

But,

I know God has a plan for him

And I knew that one day he’d leave.

Just wishing in my heart that is wasn’t so far away.

He has always been there for me,

But he’s my bro,

And I know he will never leave my side.

I love ya big bro! ♥ -xo- ♥

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

~You may fight with your sibling but when they move away you will miss them more that anything in the world!

What About Him Or Her?

2011-01-18T19:04:00.000-08:00

Another day
I sit here thinking I am in more pain
The medical things I go through
But, no hope stands because they don't have money for a cure
We have the freedom
What about him or her?
His mind is filled with gory thoughts
What we find is normal
That normal is not normal for him
The pictures he drew,
Unbelievable.
Completely blowing my mind away.
And she, she was left behind to die
Her family couldn't afford her
As she hides under a table abandoned
Just skin and bones.
At the age of five she couldn't fend for herself,
She was just expected to die.
This is not a story 'bout him or her
It is about a person who is hurting deep inside.
Why are we just standing here?
The capability we have to help
But, the labels given to one another set us apart.
We are all human,
Unique in our own way.
The greed society has,
We binge
Our wardrobes are endless.
But what about him or her?
They are stuck with nothing,
Not even a family that loves them.
Don't let your hearts turn cold
It's cowardly to only think of ourselves
But, we can set them free,
Just with our love.
~
~~By: Cassandra Siemens 2011
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I support a little boy and a little girl, they are actually fortunate to have a family, but the fact of the matter is, is what are we doing with our money?
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If there is a poor man among you, one of you brothers, in any of the towns of the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand to your poor brother; but you shall freely open your hand to him, and generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks. ~ Deuteronomy 15:7
~~These attitudes are a world away from God's attitudes, as described in many verses in the Bible. Neediness arouses compassion in God-- and action. We may think: "Of course God loves the poor; he loves everybody." But it's not so simple as that; God's character is presented as a model for our own. If God values the poor, we have to think about what that means for us.

Cassandra Falun

Wake-Up Call

2010-12-20T22:54:00.000-08:00

-- My father was rushed into emergency this mornin, I had a wake-up call. You know we get so caught up in all the commercial things and what are we gunna get outta Christmas. Really? My wake-up call showed me that we need to be thankful for what we already have! God blessed us with a family that is beyond beautiful! On the way to the hospital all I kept sayin is I cant lose my father, I cant lose my father. After many hours in the hospital we were thankful to hear that he only has a viral infection in the chest area... I dont know how to explain it, but thank God that he did not have a heart attack or a stroke or anything more serious. Yes he may be in pain, but he is home! God is good.
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*It Is Well With My Soul*
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We get so caught up in the commercial things, but look at the word Christmas. Christ-Mas . We have forgotten all about the true meanin of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.
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Great Commandment- Matthew 22:37-39 (NLT)

'You must love the Lord your God with all your hear, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

Great Compassion- Matthew 25:44-45 (NLT)

The they will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?' And he will answer, 'I assure you, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.'

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-Us not helpin out the poor or helpin out someone who asks kindly and you are free, you are refusin to help the Lord our God.
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Great Commission- Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT)

Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given complete authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the new commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Jesus Christ came to the earth for us to know these things, to show these things and to do these things.

You can pray
You can give
You can go

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I want to tell you one story.
-- Our Church's Children Ministry Leader went out just this past weekend to go get a nativity scene for the kids room, so that she could show them a model of Jesus Christ in a manger. She went all over the place and she decided well I'm gunna go to the Bay the Bay never lets me down. She went to the Christmas section she couldn't find one. So she went and found one of the ladies and asked her to you guys have a nativity scene? The lady looked at her and said what is that? Our Ministry Leader tried explainin it to her and she is like how do you spell that? ... She was goin to look it up in the computer.
-- You know there is one good example of how we are tryin to preach the word of God everywhere else except locally. This is what we were sent here to do. These people need to know who this wonderful creator is, the one who created their beautiful faces, the gorgeous flowers that bloom in the summer time, that created every single creature, the creator of the Universe! Someone along the way helped us. Now it's our turn to help someone else.
-- Have you realized that a Christmas gift can just be someone who gets saved by the Lord? Gifts mean nothin. Family means everythin! Wake-Up! It's our wake-up call. Just open those gorgeous eyes and see that you aren't in need for that new jacket, new pants, iPad, etc. some of those people don't have a shelter, clothing, shoes, food or even someone to love them. We can be that one.
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*To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world*
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Merry Christmas,
Cassandra Falun

New

2010-11-17T22:07:00.001-08:00

Was at youth today and broke down and couldn't stop cryin my friend heard me out. She has gone through so much more than me her bro has been in jail her parents are drunks... she was so strong. She said to me, "You are strong, I know that you aren't lost you just think you are, you're makin yourself weak and that happy you is still inside you." This is my last year to tend youth and another youth member came up to me and told me, " You better be a leader next year! You're my favorite!"
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That smile that I put on my face that I feel like I just put on for show, its helped me realize that it's me not givin up. Even through the struggles I saw positives today and had people just come to me and say I just have a feeling to pray for you. Thanks for your prayers.
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With Love,
Cassandra Falun

Battlefield

2010-11-13T22:28:00.000-08:00

~You have to go through the storm before you see the rainbow~

I love this quote because it’s so true, sometimes the storm is just harder than you think it will be.

See this is stuff that goes through my mind no matter what I say or my opinion on things is nobody tends to listen, so I never have talked to my parents ‘bout the majority of this.

It seems like a never endin battle. I don't know where to go anymore. I get told “Ask God! Ask God!” I ask questions, but I get sent back to square one every time I am even close to succeedin. I struggle a lot, I almost wish I could have found Jesus on my own and not grown up knowin him... because I question was it me that made a decision to be a Christian or is it just a habit because I am followin what I grew up knowin.

I have examined myself and realized I don't really act like a Christian I know its because I feel like I have just been followin someone else footsteps and not takin my own. So, I am tryin to figure my life out... the story goes on.

"I thought I would never question everything that I know, never thought I would have trouble findin my way back to you. Well I have searched and I have found that there is nowhere to run to, there is nothin to hold onto there is nothin I can do..." --Amanda Falk

I am in a never endin battle, but I am still here and still standin. I am tryin, just sometimes I don't know where to start. My life is a mess.

I went away one weekend to my gf's place (one of my friends who just had a baby girl), well I consider her family; my second family. Her five year old boy (I have been there since he was born) ran into my arms and told me he loved me and that I was the best in the whole wide world. I just wanted to cry. I didn't though ‘cause I didn't want him to ask me what was wrong. I feel so invisible out here. I feel like my parents just had me as a child to be a slave... I don’t feel appreciated. I do something for them, they don’t say anythin except ask who did it then they go into the kitchen... oh Cassandra supper isn’t made! Well how many times do I pay for your suppers how many times have I made you supper how many times have I bought groceries, where is Brandon he can pull out a cook book. Plus I had to pay my school fees because my parents can’t afford everything. I never get recognized. Invisible. I rarely get told "I love you Cassandra for you!" or "Thank you! I appreciate that"... unless I tell them I love them. But I don’t wanna say it anymore. I am done. I have no money saved up... I help my rents out more than anything. My brother he has loads of money saved... who gets noticed? him. I am just used. That’s how I feel anyways.

My brother treats me like I am a piece of crap. He makes fun of my disability and won’t help me out unless my parents make him. The worst thing is, is that he imitates it. He thinks he can tell me what to do. He yells at me, says I am worthless makes me feel like I am the tiniest thing on the face of the planet earth! He blames me for getting epilepsy and blames me for things he did wrong. He is 18. You know how hard that is to hear that from an older siblin that you have looked up to since you were little? It is the hardest thing you could ever imagine. But, yet when that semi hit him and I realized I could have lost him that day... I realized how much I still loved and cared bout him.

You know my medical stuff it is sooo stressful!!! I am in and out of the hospital all of the time!! I am sick and tired of it! I will be for the rest of my life. I hate doctors, there might be somethin combined with my epilepsy that is why they can’t get rid of all the symptoms and I am the one takin all this crap. I have to prick my finger 4 times a day. I am the one who is depressed all the time. I am the one who has to try and keep my life together. I am the one. I am the one. I am the one! I am tired of my parents naggin voices oh this will help and all this stuff. I just wish they could walk a million miles in my shoes and take all the meds I have taken and see how hard it is... especially my Dad who hates doctors and has never seen a doctor/dentist/nothin since he left home.

School. I know this semester is easy for me because I only have 3 classes but it is still hard! I am always drug down. The guy that led me on and screwed me over in the long run still likes me but is datin chicks to try and make me jealous. Ya I like him but I am sorry he is a player, I am not gunna date a guy that is gunna waste my time. Sports season is the only thing I look forward to. All the sports I can play and the sports I love to watch on TV. But still I am soooo confused! My life is a puzzle and the pieces dont fit together. I cant be like Patrick on Sponge Bob Square Pants and glue em together. The lies, the back stabbin, etc. I know will never end... it will prepare me for the real world but I hit the real world at 14, its called reality. I get judged for who I am, I want them to walk in my shoes and they can see how strong I have been to get this far. I have no friends out here... no literally.

I feel so invisible. I always have to say somethin to be noticed. I never get asked to hang out, because I don't really have anyone. You know I tried to commit suicide when I was younger... and that I also slit my wrists?! I thought it would take everything away! It can’t. You know if I really wanted to be dead right now all I would have to do is refuse to take my medication for several days. It’s that easy. But, when you always take the easy route you miss the adventures of the hard route. I know that even though I am strugglin in my faith God has a purpose for me.

I want a different school I want a different place to live I want a different life! I look at everyone else and their lives are fine, their dreams are comin true, they have everythin I have ever wanted. I am stuck with everythin. I had to get the braces; I had to get the glasses/ now I have cateracs and need surgery; I had to get the epilepsy; I had to get the joys of no friends; I am not allowed to have a drivers (at the moment); I got physically/mentally/emotionally abused; etc... its me me and me again. I have come to the conclusion that my brother is perfect. He has nothin to worry about he can fly thru and go ahead with his future plans as for me... I can't go anywhere without a drivers and coverage on my medical supplies. Without a medical plan it costs around $1000/month. It blows my mind. I live with the pain everyday wonderin and thinkin am I gunna die today?!

Love,

Cassandra Falun

Complications

2010-09-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

--I am very sorry that I have not written in a very long time. I have been struggling a lot in my own life with my health and even with my faith. I don't think it is right of me to write something on my blog when there are times I doubt it at the moment. I still call myself a Christian, just have a big struggle. I am still having troubles with my family, I feel like I am slipping away from them. There are many things that are just not in the right place, but life isn't supposed to be easy. I know God has a plan for me it is just hard for me to see I guess. I am just going into grade 12 and I am really hoping that none of this will get in way of my school work and keep my head in the game. Prayers would be greatly appreciated.
--As for all of you I am hoping all is going well. This long weekend is nice to just get away from everything. Wishing you all the best and remember you guys are all beautiful inside and out!!

----Love Always and Forever----
-------Cassandra Falun <3-------

The Lake!!!

2010-08-12T22:30:00.000-07:00

I get it all from my father what else can I say?! I ain't weird... I am just not normal haha
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Here are some tubing pictures! The best part... but you definitely feel the pain the next day :D but still... don't regret one moment!
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My friends and brother on the tube! My brother such a show of... and right after that he falls off lol too funny but a blast.
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My friends mom and I on the tube ya!!!
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We had went to the lake with some friends that came to visit us for the weekend so we had a blast all weekend do all different things and we only went to the lake for the day. - -
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I also have been going through some more medical things have had more seizures and have been working a lot and actually taking my first!!!! holiday this week... like actually this is my first holiday of the whole summer officially. So I am super excited to go to the lake for 5 days to get away and hopefully just clear my mind. Hoping and wishing you guys all the best in your guys summer, really have been hopin its been great because you guys deserve the best! God created you and no matter the circumstances you're in he loves you and you are beautiful!
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----Cassandra Falun
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I Wonder

2010-08-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Do people take the time to see

Who I really wanna be

Or are they too busy looking on e-bay

They never listen to what I say

Looking for something new

Until they see me sitting at a pew

As I was praying I began to cry

The funny part is they proceeded to walk by

As I continued to pray

I wondered and I wondered what to say

Or how much to pay

To see if God would be my hero some day.

Do everything for the better of the world.

Make a difference in your life and in others.

If it is to be,

It is up to you and me.

Are you the difference?

- - Cassandra Falun

** Written in January of 2010

She Was Precious, She Was A Gem

2010-08-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

There once was a little girl

So cute with her lovely blonde curls

She loved to laugh and play

People just didn’t know what to say

She was precious, she was a gem

But she just couldn’t please them

She felt useless

People were so clueless

This little girl has been hurting deep inside.

School came along

She dreamed for friends, but she knew she didn’t belong

A girl so precious was bugged and teased

There she sat very unpleased

She was bullied and abused

And soon developed a very short fuse

As she wished time would go by

Or even wished she could fly

She was hurting deep inside.

That hurt deep inside

She bottled it up and attached it to her side

As she grew

The more she knew

She was all alone

In fact this young woman had no one to phone

She remembered when she was seven

But here she stands in grade eleven

She had her morals and knew where she stood

She always wondered if she would

Or even could

Remember who she really was.

- - Cassandra Falun

** Written in January of 2010

Persistence

2010-07-21T22:46:00.001-07:00

When word came to Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies that had rebuilt the wall and not a gap was left in it—though up to that time I had not set the doors in the gates—Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: “Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.” But they were scheming to harm me; so I sent messengers to them with this reply: “I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?” Four times they sent me the same message, and each time I gave them the same answer. Then, the fifth time, Sanballat sent his aide to me with the swame message, and in his hand was an unsealed letter in which was written: “It is reported among the nations—and Geshem says it is true—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and therefore you are building the wall. Moreover, according to these reports you are about to become their kind and have even appointed prophets to make this proclamation about you in Jerusalem: There is a king in Judah!’ Now this report will get back to the king; so come, let us confer together.” I sent him this reply: “Nothing like what you are saying is happening; you are just making it up out of your head.” They were all trying to frighten us, thinking, their hands will get too weak for the work and it will not be completed.” But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” One day I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was shut in at his home. He said, “Let us meet in the house of God, inside the temple, and let us close the temple doors, because men are coming to kill you—by night they are coming to kill you.” But I said, “Should a man like me run away? Or should one like me go into the temple to save his life? I will not go!” I realized that God had not sent him, but that he had prophesied against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. He had been hired to intimidate me so that I would commit a sin by doing this, and then they would give me a bad name to discredit me. Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, O my God, because of what they have done; remember also the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who have been trying to intimidate me. So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God. ~ Nehemiah 6:1-16

**When the going gets tough, what motivates you to keep going? Although vicious enemies continually interrupted Nehemiah and the people of Israel, they persevered and completed the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem in just 52 days. (Crazy construction schedule) What obstacles are you facing these days? An enemy who’s trying to discourage you? A task that seems impossibly big? Don’t let the size of the task daunt you. If youre a believer, you’ve got a built-in Perseverance Coach, the Holy Spirit, who helps you to keep moving on. Keep it up!

Bits and Pieces

Some people think Christianity is just a straight-laced, guilt-trip religion. False! Knowing Jesus brings joy and strength to each day. Do you celebrate your faith or always keep a poker face?

Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is sacred to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the law. Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our LORD. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is our strength.” The Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still for this is a sacred day. Do not grieve.” Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them. ~Nehemiah 8:9-12

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Genuine- Speech

2010-07-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all people. ~ 1 Chronicles 16:23-24

They say that we as people use thousands of words every day. Wow! Now, let’s say you could calculate how you spent those. How many words a day do you think would relate to clothes, fashion, friends or sports? Or the latest on your favorite TV show or that new Blockbuster movie? Or that scoop on who-did-what-with-who last weekend? How would words relating to God and what He’s done in your life stack up in your tally? Do you regularly “proclaim his salvation” and “declare his glory”? As you go through your day chatting away, what part does God play in your conversation?

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. ~Isaiah 40:29-31

Need an energy boost? When you’re feeling worn out and beaten down, come

to me. I will refresh you so that you can walk, run, even soar with renewed strength!

--Your Hope and Strength, Your LORD God Almighty

Love

2010-06-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. If one were to give all the wealth for his love, it would be utterly scorned. ~Song of Songs 8:6-7

We tend to throw the word “love” around a lot. I love chocolate. I love your new jeans. I’d love to hang out. We use it so often we tend to forget what it really means. Solomon says that real love is so strong it can’t be killed. It’s like a fire that can’t be quenched. And it can’t be bought, for it is priceless. Have you ever wondered if you were “in love” with a guy? Because true love lasts forever, it will stand the test of time. Don’t confuse love with something else.

Love Always and Forever, Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

God is a workman. Shakespeare was a workman. I am a workman and hopefully you are too. There is nothing better than being a workman. Following in God’s steps is the only way you can achieve life.

Wake Up

2010-06-16T17:53:00.000-07:00

You know when you have that feeling like you are all alone?
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You know when you have that feeling your life is pointless?
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You know when you have that feeling like no one cares?
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You know when you have that feeling like no one can save you?
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You know when you have that feeling like no one loves you?
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I feel all those things and I try to make myself busy... then I started realizing I am just trying to bury and forget all that is happening when I need to get a hold of myself and say that everything is ok because my heavenly Father can save me. He died for me. Just with the reality that I hit at an early age I just feel so young to be going through all of this.
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Had another seizure today. My parents found me on my back and I was so thankful that I had a orthodontist appointment this morning otherwise my parents wouldn't have been home. God has a purpose and I know he is just trying to wake me up and tell me to listen.
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Thanks for all your positive comments and prayers. Love you all.

Luv Always and Forever,
Cassandra Falun <3 -xo-

Sorry

2010-06-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in a real long time. I have had more medical stuff go on... Uncle died... more than enough on my plate. I have a little to share because I did go to YC (Youth Conference) in Edmonton. Some people have come to me to share what I think of their situations, the encouragement I give them and they are surprised of what I say. YC had a lot of impact on me. I have noticed the one line that I loved came to me for a very good reason. "God is the only supplier of peace!" I have had three people come to me and share their stories and they wanted my advice and that is what I said. "God is the only supplier of peace!" You have to believe in yourself and you will see and realize that God has been there all the time. There is no other way, God is the way.
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--I will try and write more often now that I have a hold of my life :D. Remember that you are God's creation and you are all beautiful!
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Love Always and Forever,
Cassandra Falun

"We Will Cut Off Your Feet" (Jesus Freaks)

2010-04-17T20:07:00.000-07:00

Milon G.

Bangladesh

1996

The angry crowd yelled after the lone bicyclist, “If we see you again, we will cut off your feet. Then see if you can ride your bike!”
This was not the first time Milon G. had been threatened by angry crowds of Muslims. But such threats have not quenched his zeal to take the truth of God’s Word to his countrymen.
“I ride to the villages on my bicycle and carry Christian literature. In the rains, I hold an umbrella in on hand and steer with the other. I often fall down and get muddy and scratched. At night, I hold a flashlight. I sing from the Psalms when I ride. The Christians I meet do not have an extra blanket for me, so I try to make it back home to sleep.”
Milon was a teenager when a friend gave him some gospel booklets. “I hid them in a steel trunk in my bedroom. At night I would get my key, open the trunk, and read with a kerosene lamp. Having studied in a Muslim fundamental school for twelve years, I had known about Jesus as mentioned in the Koran, but I didn’t know Him as Saviour. I accepted Jesus in 1992 and was baptized secretly 400 kilometres from my home.”
Ever since then, Milon has been persecuted Muslims. “I sold clothing in the local market and began placing some Christian books in my shop for other Christians. When Muslim men learned of this, they walk into my shop and just take shirts, pants, and socks from the shelf without paying for them. If I asked for money they threatened to beat me. Anytime someone is interested in the booklets, I give them one.”
Milon says, “We are going through many problems, but still we have Jesus Christ. We have peace through Him, and we have the hope that when we die we will go to heaven.”

Bits and Pieces

We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Out only power and success come from God. He is the one who has enables us to represent his new covenant.

Paul the Apostle
Martyred in Rome, 65 AD
(2 Corinthians 3:4-6 NLT)

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Judgment

2010-04-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

And I charged your judgments at the time: Hear the disputes between your brothers and judge fairly, whether the case is between brother, Israelites or between one of then and an alien. D not show partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike, Do not be afraid of any man, for judgment belongs to God. Bring me any case too hard for you and I will hear it. ~Deuteronomy 1:16-17

It is time to ‘fess up’. If you got selected to settle an argument between a really decent person that you would love to chill with and a obnoxious person you always avoid, you would side with contestant #1. With out a doubt… right? But God values all people equally, and he wants us to be the same—popular or not, in the same crowd as you or not, likeable or not. You might not often be in a situation to act as “judge,” but deep down you pass judgment all the time. Don’t look down on anyone—judge everyone fairly in your heart.

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

If every circumstance finds us abiding in Christ, we will find Christ abiding with us in every circumstance.
I will never leave you or forsake you. ~Hebrews 13:5

Integrity

2010-04-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

Ø It pleased Darius to appoint one hundred and twenty satraps to rule throughout the kingdom, with three administrators over them, one of whom was Daniel. The satraps were made accountable to them so that the king might not suffer loss. Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent. Finally these men said, “We will never find any basis for charges against Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.” So the administrators and satraps went as a group to the king and said, “O king Darius, live forever!” The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisors and governors have all agreed the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or man, during the next thirty days, except to you, O king, shall be thrown into the lions den. Now, O king, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered—in accordance with the laws of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed. So, king Darius put the decree in writing.” Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened to Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help. So they went to the king and spoke to him about his royal decree, “Did you not publish a decree saying that during the next thirty days anyone who prays to any god or man except to you, O king, should be thrown into the lions den?” The king answered, “The decree stands—in accordance with the laws of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” ~Daniel 6:1-12

How would your friends describe your reputation? Okay, how would your enemies describe it? You can know just how solid or flimsy your reputation is by what your enemies or rivals (If you have any) say about you. Even Daniel’s enemies couldn’t tarnish his reputation—it was that good! The worst “crime” they could pin on him was being a man of prayer! Daniel’s integrity kept him safe from harm (even later in the lions’ den). Would someone “accuse” you of having integrity?

Bits and Pieces

Don’t underestimate what you, as one person, can do. God will work through anyone who is submitted to him—of any age—to accomplish His will on earth. Just go and look what Moses discovered: if one man or woman is willing to obey God, it can change the destiny of millions.

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Friendship

2010-04-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven’t written in a while I have been enjoying by break from school, plus work, etc… I also wanted to think about a couple things to write about… So number one is friendship and then tomorrow it will be integrity.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though on may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. ~Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two really are better than one. Sometimes it is hard to believe this—especially when you’ve been hurt by a close friend and feel like you don’t want to let anyone close to you for a while. But God didn’t design us to go through life all alone. A good friend can pick you up when you fall and make everything seem better just because she/he is there to share it with you. Do you want a friend like that? Are you a friend like that? Invest in your friendships, and you’ll find that the return on your investment is priceless!

Bits and Pieces

We shall not end our lives in the fire, but male a change for a better life.

Love Always and Forever,
Cassandra Falun

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T21:19:00.001-07:00

We live and die. Christ died and lived. He died for us all just to save us from the torture and now our sins can be forgiven whenever and forever. He died and now he has risen from the dead... for the perfect cannot be crucified for if they do they will live forever.

Graduation

2010-04-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking a ton about the fact that my brother is graduating this year on May 21st. Ahhhh!! I just remember all the good times we have had.... when we were younger we loved to make up our imaginary games... we played our version of tackle football with just the two of us lol.... whether you believe it or not, we killed bugs together.... I know the poor bugs but my brother went to a higher extent and would torture grass hoppers by pullin off one limb at a time... haha we went to the paddling pool together.... but it depended if our mom would even let us go out, we had to be "good" :P.... we were like best of friends. As we grew older we kinda grew apart but still had some really good times. He has taken me out for supper bought me presents and sometimes takes me out to a movie. We may fight but I know my brother looks out for me and loves me. I have so many people tell me how lucky I am... sometimes I ask them why? lol But when I think real hard, you cant get such a lovin brother better than that.... even though he drives me insane sometimes! ...He drives me around and even will come sit in the hot tub with me cause I cant do those things with epilepsy... he has always been there for me. I just want him to stick around longer... I hope he doesnt move out anytime soon... I dont even know what his plans are exactly after high school but I think he mentioned RCMP. I am so thankful that I have him and I actually dont know what I would ever do without him. His birthday is not long after his graduation... but I told Brandon on his grad I HAVE to be able to dance with him... maybe just embarass him a little ;) Love you Brandon!
------ What are you thankful for?
.... Love
... Always
.. And
. Forever
Cassandra Falun
. Forever
.. And
... Always
.... Love

Love Notes

2010-03-22T13:44:00.001-07:00

“They will be mine,” says the LORD Almighty, “in the day that I will make up my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him. And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.” ~Malachi 3:17

Dear One,

Look around you at the beautiful and wonderful world I have created. But do you know what? Of all the wonders of this world and the heavens beyond it, you are my most treasured possession. Believe it.

--Your Loving Father

When you consider how much God loves you, how do you respond?

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Silent Cry

2010-03-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

I cut myself sometimes. I don’t know why exactly. I can’t help it. When I feel sad or overwhelmed or something, I just take a razor and do it. I don’t really think about it. Sometimes I don’t even realize what I’ve done till I look down and see blood on my arm.

Jeff just dumped me. I really loved him. I don’t know why people think that people like me at 15 can’t love someone else deeply. I went into the bathroom today and started thinking about Jeff and wondering why he doesn’t still love me after I gave myself totally to him. Next thing I knew, I had done it. I cut myself, I mean.

My mom didn’t even ask me why I had a bandage on my arm. Both of my parents are so clueless. Sometimes I just want to scream, “Look at me! Look at what I’ve done!” But I don’t think they’d care. They’re so wrapped up in their own lives. Moms too busy working. Dads got a new girlfriend—a different one from the one he had when my mom filed for divorce. (I live with my mom.)

My friend Rain saw the cuts on my arm and asked me about them. (I’m still amazed that she did. I had on a long sleeved shirt.) She goes to my church, and I wondered if I should tell her that I’m always worried. I don’t know if she’d understand. I just don’t know what to do.

-Daray, age 15

I read this and it reminded me of when I was younger. I felt like my parents were so caught up in their lives that I even wondered if they cared. I wanted to hurt myself, just to see if any person would ask me how I was. I wrote a poem based on these feelings. This poem pretty much sums up how kids, teens, even adults, feel today.

Do people take the time to see

Who I really wanna be

Or are they too busy lookin on e-bay

They never listen to what I say

Lookin for something new

Until they see me sitting at a pew

As I was praying I began to cry

But, the funny part is they proceeded to walk by

As I continued to pray

I wondered and I wondered what to say

Or even how much I would have to pay

Too see if God would be my hero some day

----Cassandra Falun, age 16

Even a devoted follower of Christ could have a silent cry, they just don’t know what to say or even wonder if people would listen to what they had to say. It isn’t just awareness for parents it’s for everyone. We as ourselves, as a community, as the world, need to listen to what everyone has to say… no matter where they stay or where they are from. We were sent here by God and we need to accept who God made and meet who our brothers and sisters are. Everyone is unique. Everyone needs help in some sort of way. Be the difference, it is up to you and me to start the trend.

Do everything for the better of the world.

Make a difference in your life and in others.

If it is to be, it is up to you and me.

Are you the difference?

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Going Away

2010-03-04T12:34:00.001-08:00

I am going away to show the dogs this weekend!!! YAIII!!! I am so happy and proud. Here are the lovely puppies.

This is our newest addition to the family, Nitro and he is a Yorkshire Terrier.

This is Chiqui (Cheeky), she is a West Highland Terrier.

Sincerely,
Cassandra Falun

P.S. I am not a good speller so I am not sure if I spelled those right :P I will talk to you after the weekend :)

Speech

2010-02-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships for example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our LORD and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can salt spring produce fresh water. ~James 3:1-12

Like the tiny computer chip that accesses the internet… like the steering wheel of a car that maneuvers two tons of steel… like the small dusting of poison that can kill and individual… your tongue is little compared to the rest of your body, but oh-so-very powerful. It has the power to shake another person’s confidence, reputation or joy—to do more evil than you can imagine. Or it has the power to build others up, point them to Jesus and praise God. Will you use this power for good or for evil?

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

I want to see what you can come up with for bits and pieces, feel free to say anything. Any bits of encouragement etc... not just for me but for everyone that reads it.

Forgiveness

2010-02-26T18:50:00.001-08:00

While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “LORD Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “LORD, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. ~Acts 7:59-60

Put yourself in Stephen’s place. He looked up into the angry faces of the mob that hated him. He locked eyes with his murderers as they pummeled his body with stones. Yet he asked God to forgive them. How is that humanly possible, to forgive someone for something so heinous? It’s only possible through Jesus, the one who did it first. Even dying, Stephen followed his Saviour’s example.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. ~Luke 23:34

God can transform your heart and your attitudes in ways that might seem impossible to you now. Radical forgiveness is the mark of a follower of Jesus.

**Remember** Nothing is impossible with God. All you need is faith.

Love Always and

Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

Feel like the world is ending? In those insecure moments every person faces, picture God as your rock. He’s unshakeable. He’s strong. He’s a safe shelter.

He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he. ~Deuteronomy 32:4

Update

2010-02-24T09:48:00.000-08:00

I am sorry I havent written in a long long long time. I have been job hunting, put so many resumes out there finally I got a call back and I am gunna be workin at Robins Donuts! Yaii! Plus I had a seizure last Friday so I have just been chillen and tryin not to worry what is going to happen next with my medical issues... plus I have gotten caught up in the Olympics, it's almost like my eyes are glued to the tv lol... plus addin in the cleaning and laundry to finish for my mom. So I will try and have something up by tonight if not there will definitely be one up by tomorrow.
-
Love Cassandra Falun
-
P.S.
I am writing this from school that is why it doesn't looks so fantastic :P Stupid computers have so many restrictions.

Desire

2010-02-17T11:05:00.000-08:00

Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. ~Psalm 37:3-4

Is this “desires of your heart” thing an open-ended offer for everything you would ever want? Well, not quite. See, there is one condition. First you have to delight yourself in the LORD—that means getting to know God, enjoying his presence and spending time with him. Once you get your joy tied to him, your desires just might change. Instead of a long wish list of stuff—clothes, popularity and other things that just don’t last—you’ll desire real, true, lasting satisfaction. What God offers is no fake, cheap, quick-fix happiness that lasts for a moment. He offers you a fulfilling life that’s way beyond what you can possibly imagine!

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. ~Psalm 36:7

God’s love? Priceless. And completely free.

Love Notes

2010-02-15T19:34:00.001-08:00

“Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will prtect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation. ~Psalm 91:14-16

Beloved,

Trouble in this world comes in many different forms—sickness, accidents, rejection, failures. When you’re in trouble, come to me. Because I love you, my child, I will be with you and save you.

-- Your God and Protector

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. ~Psalm 92:1-4

How do you express praise to God? Through singing? Writing? Art? However you get that awesome inner flame out to the world, do it for God and do it all the time!

Love is in the Air

2010-02-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

My Pastor shared this today and I thought I should pass it on…

© Love the LORD your God {with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.} The second command is this: {‘Love your neighbour as you love yourself.’} There are no commands more important than these. ~Mark 12:30-31

1. WE LOVE GOD BECAUSE {HE FIRST LOVED US}

© Dear friends, let us continue to love one another for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is born of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God—for God is love. ~1 John 4:7-8

2. LOVE IS A {CHOICE} AND A {COMMITMENT}

Love is a choice and it isn’t something you can fall in and out of. God is love. There is a choice between good and evil. You choose.

3. LOVE IS AN {ACTION} NOT JUST AN EMOTION

-Even though there are some people who don’t accept your love or show it themselves, don’t give up, it may make it hard but don’t give up.

-Love is expressed through joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

-Don’t wait until you “feel” like doing something. Put love in the air. Show love by what you do!

4. LOVE IS A {HABIT}

© Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay that Jesus Christ is in you. Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it. ~2 Corinthians 13:5

-If you are on and off like a light something is wrong. You aren’t putting God first. You only turn on the light when you are in absolute trouble. Keep the light on, trust and believe that God will lead you through just put everything in His hands.

Love Always and Forever,

Cassandra Falun

Bits and Pieces

Assessing Your Relationships 1-poor 9-great

Parents 1---3---5---7---9

Marriage Prospects 1---3---5---7---9

Spouse 1---3---5---7---9

Relative 1---3---5---7---9

Coworkers 1---3---5---7---9

Neighbours 1---3---5---7---9

Different/Difficult 1---3---5---7---9

Children 1---3---5---7---9