Category Archives: Immortality

The never-ending pursuit of biological longevity has seen people jump some ridiculous hoops to maintain or at the very least, maintain the appearance of a healthy mind and body. While cosmetic treatments and fad diets may offer temporary solutions to the anti-aging battle, five parts of the world known as Blue Zones have ostensibly unlocked the secrets to a long and healthy life.

For context, Blue Zones are the unique geographic regions where youll find the oldest life expectancies, the highest concentrations of centenarians (people over 100 years of age), as well as the lowest rates of chronic diseases. The term was originally coined by American author Dan Buettner, who studied these areas with his team at National Geographic. During their research, Buettner placed a blue circle around each locale on a map hence Blue Zones.

Weve outlined some of the key dietary and lifestyle characteristics specific to the Blue Zones that make each of them part of this exclusive club below.

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This small Greek island typifies the traditional Mediterranean lifestyle. For many generations, Ikarias mountainous landscape has forced locals to be in prime physical condition simply by moving around the island. Exercise is seamlessly integrated into their daily lives, from tending to livestock, gardening, walking along the glorious paths, to doing their own backyard work and renovations. No Airtasker here, thats for sure.

Ikarians live humble and modest lives prioritising strong relationships between family and friends. The locals are also proud Greek Orthodox Christians with a total of 58 parishes spread across the tiny island. Their strong social and religious ties have created a sense of meaning and purpose that is conditioned into both the current and future generations. A siesta is also on the daily to-do list, having proven to reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 35%.

The Ikarian diet is a variation of the Mediterranean diet involving the consumption of potatoes, full-fat dairy products, and coffee (Greek-style, of course). The strictly whole food diet is rich in olive oil which provides a source of healthy fats. Fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and whole grains are all essential for fibre. Ikarains maintain a low consumption of meat, coupled with moderate red wine consumption.

Dairy products derived from goats are favoured to those from cows since its a lactose-free way to get some potassium, in addition to containing tryptophan (a stress-relieving hormone). As an island, Ikaria loves its seafood with sardines, salmon, herring, and trout being amongst those most frequently consumed. Herbal teas ranging from wild rosemary to sage are commonly enjoyed by Ikarians as theyre high in antioxidants which maintain low blood pressure.

In Ikaria, one in three people make it to 90 and the island is almost completely free from dementia. Their clean Aegean air, lush mountains, whole food diet, and balanced lifestyle have essentially culminated into a Mediterranean utopia.

Officially home to the worlds oldest men, Sardinia is a small Italian island situated south of Corse and north of Tunisia. The Ogliastra region within the island is a cluster of villages that has almost ten times more centenarians per capita than the US.

The Sardinian locals have strong family values which (apparently) contributes to lower rates of stress, depression, and suicide. Grandparents are not just part of the family but are active members of the communities with solid relational ties between the youth and the elderly.

Its also common to frequently socialise with friends, the region known for its sardonic humour. Laughter reduces stress and, over time, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease. Many locals are shepherds or farmers who engage in physical labour, consistently walking in excess of eight kilometres a day, proving all the exercise required to live past a century.

Another variation of the Mediterranean diet, the Sardo-Mediterranean diet is heavily associated with the prevention of chronic diseases. Under this regime, Sardinian locals eat high amounts of olive oil, fish, and dairy products. Processed foods are not consumed and nutrients are instead obtained from various fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and herbs alike.

With low meat consumption, a low-protein diet is commonly consumed amongst the Sardinian population who have extremely minimal rates of diabetes and cancer. One or two glasses a day (and almost always more) of red wine is also welcomed with open arms.

The largest island in Japans subtropical archipelago, Okinawa is officially home to the worlds oldest women. Once known as the land of immortals, this Japanese prefecture boasts incredibly low rates of cancer, dementia, and heart disease per capita. Potentially the most compelling factor behind the majority of citizens living to 100 and beyond is the Okinawans focus on ikigai.

Ikigai is a Japanese word that encapsulates a deep sense of meaning and life purpose. There is not a single uniform purpose that everyone follows, but rather it is unique to each individual. A clear sense of roles and responsibilities that lead to enhanced psychological well-being means that Okinawans have an extremely low rate of depression.

This is furthered by their emphasis on moai or social networks, which provide emotional and financial support in times of need. In some villages, there are buckets where members of the local community can donate. The funds are then graciously given to families or individuals who are struggling in desperate times of need.

The Okinawan lifestyle is also upheld by a passion for gardening and walking, serving as a source of low-intensity exercise. Tai chi, a meditative martial art form, also increases blood flow and enhanced joint stability. Spending frequent time outside also allows for Okinawans to consistently soak up vitamin D leading to positive impacts on immune function, bone, muscle, and heart health.

The Okinawan diet comprises mostly of foods rich in soy, such as miso soup and tofu. It is almost exclusively a plant-based diet that focuses on staples like leafy greens, sweet potato, and low GI grains in other words, the ones that wont spike your blood sugar levels. Animal-based products such as meat and dairy are only consumed occasionally.

Okinawans have also been known to follow a rule they call the hara hachi bu. In Western culture, this is known as the 80% rule, which essentially dictates you eat only until youre 80% full and nothing more. This avoids a caloric surplus and subsequently reduces the risk of weight gain and chronic diseases.

Situated in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, this 130-kilometre peninsula has a mortality rate 20% lower than the rest of the country. Successful centenarians from Nicoya live in close association with their plan de vida or reason to live. It provides elders with a strong sense of purpose within their communities who also feel an innate need to contribute to something bigger than themselves.

Nicoyans are extremely social people with frequent visits from neighbours matched by a great appreciation for life and laughter. Elder members of the community often live with their families, emphasising the importance of the family unit and values. Locals also engage in regular exercise, often achieved through physical labour, closely related to consistent sun exposure and vitamin D.

When compared to the diets of the other Blue Zones, the Nicoyan diet has a higher animal-based food consumption, including chicken, eggs, and cheeses. They have a low intake of healthy fats and high intakes of foods rich in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables and legumes, grains, as well as low GI foods.

Nicoyans drink a lot of coffee, juice, and guaro (a Costa Rican alcoholic beverage). The diet avoids milk as well as both processed and frozen foods.

Undoubtedly the biggest outlier out of all the Blue Zones, Loma Linda is a small city just south of San Bernadino in California that has the highest concentration of Seventh-day Adventists in the United States. The Seventh-day Adventist church is an Adventist Protestant Christian domination.

Possibly the most unique element of this way of life is the 24-hour sabbath taking place every Saturday. During this day, the focus of Adventists is exclusively on family and God, serving to provide perspective, clarity, and stress relief. Daily walks are a popular form of regular exercise and Adventists commonly spend the majority of their time with other Adventists. They find spending time with like-minded individuals in tight-knit communities to be extremely beneficial to their mental well-being.

Volunteering through the church is also very common, creating a strong sense of togetherness and inclusivity. Adventists dont drink alcohol or smoke.

People in the Seventh-day Adventist community typically follow a vegan diet. This consists of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains. Olive oil and nuts are also good sources of fat. Its also customary for Adventists to eat early, light dinners. This is believed to avoid large caloric consumption during inactive stages of the day. This may be linked to lower BMI and better sleep.

Although each of the five Blue Zones have very little in common geographically, their populations share several common characteristics highly pivotal to their collective longevity. While some of these factors are more prevalent in certain Blue Zones than others, they provide a balanced framework that can help you achieve an overall healthier mind and body.

Its important to remember that theres no single food or lifestyle trait which will automatically gift you immortality. The key is to ensure you maintain a healthy balance of social engagement with diet and exercise. Consistent stimulation of mind and body coupled with a strong sense of self and spiritual purpose is where the magic happens.

If youd like to learn more about Blue Zones, check out The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner here.

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Blue Zones: These 5 Locations Hold The Secrets To "Immortality" - Boss Hunting

There has been almost no question that this is where St. John Vianney was going to end the 2021-22 season when the Lancers kicked off their season back on Dec. 17.

The path to the Tournament of Champions final has taken St. John Vianney through some of the top teams in the state. Another team was added to that list on Friday when the No. 1 Lancers got past No. 8 Sparta 75-54 in the T of C semifinals at RWJ Barnabas Health Arena in Toms River.

SJV (31-1) will face a familiar opponent in No. 4 Rutgers Prep in the championship game on Sunday in the final T of C contest.

Rutgers Prep defeated No. 2 Manasquan earlier on Friday, setting up a highly-anticipated rematch between the two teams. The Lancers won the first matchup 87-48 on Feb. 13.

St. John Vianney is one win away from immortality.

The Lancers could stake their claim as arguably the best team in New Jersey girls basketball history, given the in-state and national schedule theyve played. It would also be the schools eighth T of C championship, and first since 2016, if they can get past Rutgers Prep at Jersey Mikes Arena at Rutgers.

Weve been hearing about it a lot on the internet. I dont think weve really said it ourselves, but I definitely think that we have a pretty good chance as going down as that, said Zoe Brooks, who scored a game-high 27 points against Sparta. Theres been a lot of good teams with Diamond Miller (at Franklin) and Michelle Sidor (at Saddle River Day), but I definitely think we can be up there with them.

To get to Sunday, the Lancers had to get through a hobbled Sparta (27-4) team ready for its biggest test of the season.

It didnt take long for SJVs press to cause Sparta problems. The Lancers press was unrelenting, giving Sparta center Alexa Acker issues when she got the ball near center court. It led to turnovers, which turned into easy baskets for the Lancers.

SJV led 22-10 after the first quarter on the way to its latest wire-to-wire win. The win is the 10th over a team ranked in the NJ.com Top 20 at one point this season. Add in wins over five nationally-ranked teams when the Lancers have played them in Christ the King (N.Y.), DME Academy (F.L.), Lake Highland Prep (F.L.), St. Thomas Aquinas (F.L.) and the first Rutgers Prep meeting, and its easy to see why SJV is in the conversation as the best girls basketball team in New Jersey history.

The only loss came to Sidwell Friends (D.C.), the No. 1 team in the country.

A huge reason for the Lancers success is how deep they are, with the backcourt of Brooks and Madison St. Rose leading the way, and with coach Dawn Karpell pushing the right buttons and making the right calls.

Brooks and St. Rose were again outstanding against Sparta, with two combining for a highlight-reel pass in the second quarter when St. Rose, who was near midcourt, threaded the needle through a Sparta defender to hit Brooks in stride for an easy layup.

Honestly, I feel like my team played their hardest throughout the whole entire season, St. Rose said. Every team that came in the way, we got together, we played together, and weve stepped up to the competition.

Zoe Brooks (35) of St. John Vianney tries to score against Alexa Acker (24) of Sparta during the NJSIAA Tournament of Champions girls basketball semifinal between St. John Vianney and Sparta at RWJ Barnabas Health Arena at Toms River North High School in Toms River, NJ on Friday, March 18, 2022. Scott Faytok | For NJ Advance Media

Brooks had four assists, three rebounds and four steals to her 27 points, St. Rose added 21 points, six rebounds, six assists and three steals. Bre Delaney scored nine points off the bench and gave starter Ashley OConnor a breather as she guarded Sparta point guard Ally Sweeney.

Sparta hung tough early, but could not overcome St. John Vianneys pressure. Junior Brynn McCurry started for the first time since the opening round of the postseason after nursing an ankle injury. She scored a team-high 24 points with six rebounds, five assists and four steals.

Acker added 11 points and eight rebounds, and Sweeney had nine points, four rebounds and three assists, battling through constant injuries shes sustained during the postseason run. The Spartans never stopped playing until the end, trying to claw away at the big deficit at the free-throw line and in the fourth quarter.

Ultimately, the Lancers depth was too much.

St. John Vianney is the most talented team Ive seen all season, coach Catherine Wille said. I saw them on film a million times, but when you get them live, its 10 times harder with Zoe Brooks and Madison St. Rose and all the other people. Its sub after sub after sub. I have the core five that are beaten, battled and bruised. I thought we did a good job of not giving up and thats what got us here.

Its been a dream season for us and I couldnt be more proud of them. Im just so excited that we had this opportunity in the last Tournament of Champions.

Even with the win, Karpell thought her team wasnt at their best against the Spartans, having uncharacteristic turnovers and sloppy play. She is aware her team will have to play better against Rutgers Prep on Sunday, especially after how they defeated the Argonauts in the first meeting.

Rutgers Prep will be motivated to spoil SJVs coronation.

Karpell will have her team ready to make even more history, setting up another chance to hang another banner inside their home gym with a team that has never gotten a chance to play in a T of C final.

I think our history is our history, and its super exciting, Karpell said. But for these kids, its their first time, and I think for them its a special opportunity because its their first time going to do it. Im super excited.

The N.J. High School Sports newsletter now appearing in mailboxes 5 days a week. Sign up now and be among the first to get all the boys and girls sports you care about, straight to your inbox each weekday. To add your name, click here.

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You can reach Luis Torres at ltorres@njadvancemedia.com and you can follow him on Twitter @ByLuisTorres.

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No. 1 SJV gets past No. 8 Sparta, heads to TOC final with a win away from immortality - NJ.com

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Last years Masters was memorable for a number of reasons, including the moment Hideki Matsuyama became the first Japanese player to win the tournament. However, one of the tournaments most enduring images belonged to his caddie, Shota Hayafuji.

As is customary for the winning caddie, Hayafuji removed the flag from the18th after Matsuyamas winning putt. He then placed it back in the hole, faced the course, removed his hat and bowed. The image quickly spread across social media, ensuring its place in Masters immortality. In the aftermath, Hayafuji explained his reaction in an email interview with The Caddie Network, saying: My heart was full of gratitude, and it was the natural thing for me to bow and show respect to The Masters.

Now, as Matsuyama prepares to defend his title at Augusta National in two weeks, the 30-year-old has spoken about the moment that quickly imprinted itself in the memories of those watching. He said: I didnt see it in person, but I did see it on TV, and I thought it was something very special. Im glad that Shota did it. Its a sign of respect, not only to the Masters tournament but Augusta National. It was something that was good. I never really thought it would receive the attention that it has generated.

With The Masters rapidly approaching, Matsuyama is striving to return to fitness to defend his title. The 30-year-old hasnt played since the recurrence of a back injury at the Arnold Palmer Championship, but his recovery is going well: My recovery is moving forward. Each day it gets better. Probably at 80 percent right now. Planning to practice hard this week and Im intending to play in the Valero Texas Open as long as the pain keeps subsiding.

Matsuyama also had a few words for what The Masters means to him. He said: Going to the Masters is something very special for me and something Ive really been looking forward to, so Im going to do my very best to be as prepared as I can to defend my title there.

Matsuyama will be hoping to recreate the form that won him his first Major to date when he tees it up at Augusta National in two weeks. Whatever happens, though, it is hard to imagine anything proving more poignant and powerful than that image of a year ago.

Originally posted here:

'It Was Something Very Special' Matsuyama On Caddie's Augusta National Bow - Golf Monthly

As the theater scene blooms, we finally get a look at a handful of productions that were once set to debut two years ago. Between the joys of seeing long-gestating projects arrive on stage, the spring theater season features ballet, modern dance, Afrofuturism, history lessons, Tony winners, jukebox musicals and jukebox musicals that are also Tony-winning history lessons.

A Gentlemans Guide to Love and Murder, Lyric Stage, April 15 May 22

Its a simple plan. All Monty Navarro needs to do to become the ninth Earl of Highhurst is murder eight innocent members of the high-born DYsquith clan. But will love stand in his way? Fun, tuneful and completely murderous. (lyricstage.com)

Aint Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, April 19 May 1, Citizens Bank Opera House

Some jukebox musicals dont have enough tunes to fill a shoebox. Thats not a problem with this slice of Motown history. The Temptations scored 42 Top 10 hits and an astounding 14 chart toppers. From the Detroit streets to immortality thanks to perfect choreography, powerful harmonies and wonderful melodies. (boston.broadway.com)

Parable of the Sower, April 21-24, Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre

After its sold-out 2017 concert experience, Octavia E. Butlers work (finally, after years of COVID-related delays) returns as a fully realized stage production featuring over 30 original compositions drawn from 200 years of black musical traditions. Parable of the Sower explores a not-so-distant future where climate change has devastated the world while reflecting on a present where gender and race determine peoples destinies. (artsemerson.org)

The Inheritance, Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA, April 22 June 11

Written by Matthew Lopez and directed by Paul Daigneault, this epic two-part play totaling over six hours pulls E.M. Forsters novel Howards End into 21st century New York, a generation after the AIDS crisis. The creative team then uses Forsters frame to look at the lives of young gay men in NYC and the legacy of a generation nearly lost. (speakeasystage.com)

Aint Misbehavin The Fats Waller Musical, April 28 May 29, Central Square Theater

Fats Wallers personality, talent and wicked smile made him a legend go watch the 1943 film Stormy Weather for a taste of his charisma. Aint Misbehavin digs into all the magic behind that smile and the history of the Harlem Renaissance (and won a Tony Award for best musical). Local acting ace Maurice Emmanuel Parent directs. (centralsquaretheater.org)

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Wang Theatre, April 28 May 1

The history of this dance company is storied. But amazingly, since 2011, Aileys dancers have only become more engaging through the leadership of artistic director and Juilliard alum Robert Battle. (bochcenter.org)

1776, Loeb Drama Center, May 15 July 24

American Repertory Theater artistic director Diane Paulus didnt grow up in the shadow of Hamilton (a daunting prospect facing young writers and directors). Her generations historical masterpiece came with 1969 Tony-winning musical 1776. Over two years ago, Paulus gushed about the opportunity to close the ARTs 2020 season with a revival of a show that examines how the founders invented modern freedom and who that freedom belonged to. Finally, the dream comes true. (americanrepertorytheater.org)

Swan Lake, May 26 June 5, Citizens Bank Opera House

Boston Ballet artistic director Mikko Nissinens Swan Lake is the ultimate gateway from The Nutcracker to your grand, new obsession with the art form. When discussing the broad sweep of this season, he looked at the pair of classics as great bookends. It starts with the Tchaikovsky holiday classic and ends with the best known classical ballet. (bostonballet.org)

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Boston theater scene comes alive with music, dance & drama - Boston Herald

Apex Legends is one of the most popular, and unique, free shooting games out there right now and that means there are always new leaks to talk about. With Respawn Entertainments incredible cast of characters keeping fans as invested as its slick gameplay, theres always chatter in the community about the latest Apex Legends character leaks and how theyll affect the meta.

Usually, detailed information on Apex Legends leaked characters is hard to come by especially a full breakdown of a leaked legends kit. However, a recent spate of screenshots and datamined information now means were looking at more Apex Legends character leaks than ever before. So many, in fact, that we currently have information on the next nine legends that could join the battle royale game.

Before we get stuck in, its important to keep in mind that leaks arent always accurate so, take everything below with a pinch of salt. That being said, a lot of the latest information on Apex Legends leaked legends is exciting and could spell huge things for the future of the game.

Its time to get stuck in. Heres everything we know about the latest Apex Legends character leaks:

The following leaks can be found on the ApexUncovered subreddit here.

Newcastle is the most complete-looking leaked Apex Legends character at the moment and, with three shield-based abilities, theyre going to offer massive amounts of additional shielding and could partner well with legends who need a bit of protection.

All Upcoming Legends and their abilities from ApexUncovered

If these leaks are accurate, Uplink could be another fantastic supportive legend and a welcome addition to Apex Legends roster. Their abilities are all about regenerating shields and reviving allies with an ultimate ability that grants temporary immortality.

Vantage is another leaked Apex Legends character that looks to shake up the current meta, taking full advantage of long-range encounters with a kit that can be used to offer important information on enemies from afar. They can also offer a vital damage boost that could make a difference in a firefight.

This possible upcoming Apex Legends character is going to take advantage of an unusual ferrofluid to create new structures in the heat of battle. They can also reinforce other legends placeable gadgets. So, if youre relying on Ramparts Shiela or a Wattson Pylon, they could be a fantastic asset to your squad.

Phantoms kit might not look like its adding any new features to Apex Legends, but that doesnt mean it isnt one of the more exciting leaked characters out there. With double jumping and a grappling hook, they should certainly live up to their agile assassin subtitle.

Jester is one leaked Apex Legends character that sounds like a lot of fun to play. Spawning with a frag grenade in-hand, Jesters kit could easily change the tide of a fight and would be a fantastic new legend for the roster.

If youre looking for a new offensive support legend, Caliber sounds like they could be the perfect character for you. Their kit is all about dealing damage to opponents and they could be a fantastic addition to Apex Legends growing roster.

Scryer is one of the most interesting legends in the latest batch of Apex Legends character leaks. They have a passive ability thats only useful when theyre dead but dont count them out in a fight. Scryer is going to be a legend to keep an eye out for.

Conduit is another shield-based character that has been leaked for Apex Legends. However, their kit is all about boosting your allies shields and draining your enemies shields. Coupled with a legend that can place barriers, they could be a fantastic addition to your squad if the leaks are accurate.

Well, thats all the Apex Legends character leaks we know about right now if true, there are some exciting characters to look forward to in the future. Will any of these shake up our Apex Legends tier list? Only time will tell, but it looks promising.

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Apex Legends character leaks here's who could join the Apex Games - The Loadout

Pirates of the Caribbean has some of the most notable and cunning villains. They are usually associated with evil acts and morbid plans, and will certainly do everything in their power to get what they want. But, villains in Pirates of the Caribbean are not just pirates; some people are as contemptible as the sea bandits.

In this list, we have rounded up the most popular and most wicked of all villains in the franchise. They had significant roles within the story, and each of them delivered an exceptional performance portraying their respective character.

Lord Beckett does not seem attractive to the audience as a villain. Certainly, he has done a lot of bad things to which he never redeemed himself. Although his plans were not as worse as the other pirates evildoings, many fans would rather choose Barbossa or Blackbeard over him.

His worse trait is apathy, and he is always concerned with business no matter the cost. Lord Becketts job as a pirate hunter allows him to conduct operations that are deemed inhumane and inconsiderate, making him the worst person of all.

Barbossa is undoubtedly the most popular among the pirate villains in the story. He has appeared in several installments and has a strong influence in the development of the plot as well as Jack Sparrows character. Hector is a very relatable character, and he is the only villain that can feel sympathy.

Because of this touch of humanity, the audience sometimes forgets that he is first and foremost an antagonist. Barbossa is no angel; evilness still resides in his heart and he is willing to double-cross and trick anyone to accomplish his plans.

Blackbeard is one of the most threatening pirates to encounter in the middle of the sea. He has a large ship, an entire army of the undead, and his beautiful yet cunning daughter to deal with. Above all that, Blackbeard is a man of great passion.

It means that he seeks eternal life and will stop at nothing to gain immortality. He will do everything to clear his path, including killing his own child.

The Spanish pirate hunter was introduced in the 2017 movie Dead Men Tell No Tales, where his soul is trapped in the Devils Triangle. He wanted revenge against Jack Sparrow for luring them into a cave that transformed him and his crew into the undead.

This is why he has been seeking the Trident of Poseidon, and Salazar will cause havoc in his wake just to get a taste of vengeance.

Davy Jones is not like other pirates. He once used to be a pirate, but after a great deal of pain that he experienced with his relationship with Calypso, he grew cold. Davy Jones carved out his heart, kept it in a locker, and turned into a horrible octopus monster.

He helms the Flying Dutchman and sails the seven seas while luring people to become food for his pet, the Kraken.

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Pirates Of The Caribbean: 5 Most Evil Villains - FandomWire

If theres one God of War character that deserves his own spin-off game, its Baldur.

Kratos unmitigated quest to obliterate every divine pantheon in the history of mankind goes on alive and well with his new foray into the cold Nordic lands (after killing all the Greek gods). The God of Wars battle against the deities of Asgard has seen the inclusion of some of the most nuanced characters in the franchises history so far, with each new Asgardian having some fascinating backstory thats worth looking into.

When it comes to tragic characters featured in this epic franchise, one that stands out even more than Kratos himself is Baldur, from 2018s God of War (developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment). A woeful Aesir with a complicated past, Baldur (son of Odin) serves as the main antagonist in Kratos latest Asgardian escapade.

The story of a god destined to die and the overbearing protection of love that deprived him of everything in his immortal life is truly the stuff of legends. A character with the level of emotional development and narrative potential that Baldur has would indeed be wasted appearing in just one video game even if that game is one of the most narratively shocking games of the last generation.

The concept of immortality is nothing new for the God of War series after all, these are games that deal with killing individuals that people always conceived as unkillable. While most gods use their immortality for morally questionable deeds, their actions usually have to do with satiating their base impulses. However, Baldurs immortality leads him to an eternity of numbness.

Baldurs mother Freya (the witch of the woods and Queen of the Valkyries in the God of War games) knew that the Aesir would die a needless death, so she cast a spell on him that made him invulnerable to any threats. A side effect of the spell was that Baldur also couldnt experience any pain or satisfaction he wasnt even able to tell that the snow was cold.

In Norse mythology, Baldur (who boasts a large collection of tattoos in the video game) is also a very tragic character, mostly due to his interactions with his half-brother Thor and Loki, the god of mischief. A game that focuses solely on Baldur could draw some inspiration from Norse legends, and could also serve as a great expansion to the new God of War mythos.

Characters like Thor and Odin will have an expanded role in the upcoming God of War: Ragnark and Baldurs story could serve as a proper bridge to better understand the relationship between the Aesir and the Vanir not to mention that it would be the first game in the series that doesnt have Kratos as the main character.

Side Note: A God of War camera hack reveals a hilariousEaster Egg, whereinBaldurflips Kratos off during their first big battle. Theres no doubt that the final fight and the opening battle will go down in gaming and boss fights history.

Not counting any compilations or cellphone games, Kratos has starred in seven God of War games. While that might be understandable from a marketing point of view, some could argue that there was no need for the Spartan to even set foot on the gelid lands of Norse mythology in the first place.

Baldur (the Norse Aesir god of light) would have been a great character to start the new era of God of War in the Asgardian saga. While it might be a bit late to do so now especially since hes now deceased (Kratos broke Baldurs neck using Spartan Rage) that doesnt mean that Baldur couldnt be the protagonist of his own spin-off series of God of War games. In fact, the game could lead up to the death of Baldur.

Spin-offs like this keep the interest in the series alive, and its not like there are not so many stories involving Baldur in the Norse pantheon either. A complex character like Baldur, with a sympathetic and tragic story like his not to mention his awesome powers would definitely garner some fans.

Perhaps Ragnark could signal the end of an era for the franchise (give Kratos and his son Atreus a break), allowing more characters like Baldur to earn their time under the spotlight from time to time. If it worked well for Devil May Cry and Vergil, it will work for God of War and Baldur. The Norse god of light will be a really fun character to play with.

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Baldur Deserves A God of War Spin-Off Game - Fortress of Solitude

I want to begin by thanking the Manchester Survivors Choir for their absolutely beautiful singing, and the spirit in which they communicated their sense of resilience with us this morning.

Thats what I want to talk about, because in his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul tells us that:

when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written:

Death is swallowed up in victory.

O death, where is thy sting?

O grave, where is thy victory?

And so today, five years on from this tragedy that touched so many, I join you not to mourn. Nor to add more tears to those already shed.

Instead I am here to celebrate the lives of Andreea, Aysha, Kurt and Leslie. They were each taken from us far too soon.

But they each live on in all our hearts and in the memories of those they loved, and those who loved them around the world. Because as the Lord Mayor was just saying, the diversity of their origins shows the truth that an attack on London, like an attack on Manchester, is an attack on the world.

I am here to celebrate the extraordinary heroism of PC Keith Palmer.

A man whose actions that bright spring day showed him to be truly the best among us, and whose courage and sacrifice remain an inspiration to us all.

I am here to celebrate the skill and bravery of PC Palmers colleagues who risked themselves to save countless lives, and who, in many cases, are even today still putting themselves between the innocent and those who would do us harm.

I am here to celebrate the selflessness and compassion of everyone who rushed to the aid of strangers that day.

Paramedics, commuters, tourists, MPs who didnt cross over the road but put themselves in harms way to help others in their moment of need.

And I am here to celebrate our capital London. This unique city. This fantastic city. Which over so many centuries has taken whatever anyone cares to throw at it, and has emerged ever stronger, brighter and greater.

And that is thanks to the incomparable spirit of the people within it, and that is the spirit that we remember as we celebrate today.

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PM words at a service commemorating the 5th anniversary of the terror attacks on Westminster Bridge and New Palace Yard - GOV.UK

Several years ago, I started publicly deconstructing the topic of hell and received the most vehement pushback. Good Christian people sent me death threats (the only issue Ive received such threats about). Others attacked my character for even bothering to suggest that eternal conscience torture wasnt real.

I brought up the topic again this last week, and many Christians were true to form. Someone close to our family cavalierly declared that you simply couldnt be a Christian and doubt the existence of eternal suffering. Another Christian woman proclaimed that I would soon discover for myself that hell was real.

When talking to some Christians about the judgment, it becomes apparent that they legitimately think that belief in the gospel and belief in eternal conscious torment (ECT) are the same thing. And I hate to say it, but the idea that you cant be a Christian and doubt the existence of hell seem to be inversely proportional to ones understanding of Scripturemeaning that the less you know about the Bible, the more likely and firmly you are to believe that to deny hell is to deny God.

Inevitably, discussions about the topic become a game of proof-texting. Proponents of hell begin throwing out Bible verses and then gaze triumphantly at you because theyve clearly proven their point.

This is frustrating because the topic is so much deeper and richer than playing Whac-A-Mole with prepackaged Bible verses. It requires thoughtful engagement with Jesus teaching style, the intersection of first-century beliefs on the afterlife, and a nuanced discussion of language. Typically, the person who is ticked that youre questioning their pet doctrine doesnt have the patience or interest to sit through a thoughtful discussion about this (or any) topic. They want the CliffsNotes.

What I always find interesting is that many of the same people who believe the Bible teaches that hell exists for eternal punishment also soften the idea with a form of belief that hell is just being cut off from God and wandering alone for all eternity. Naturally, there is no basis for believing any such thing.

I want to talk about some traditional viewpoints counter to the ECT narrative. The first is the conditionalism/annihilationism position, which suggests that what God cannot redeem through the cross will be wiped from existence.

Lets take a closer look at what this means.

One of the legs that ECT rests on is the idea that God created humans to be immortal, and theres nothing that God or anyone else can do about it. This is why its one of the arguments occasionally presented for eternal damnation, Well, people exist forever, and bad people have to go somewhere. . . right?

And, I guess, since sitting in a cosmic waiting room with expired copies of Highlights and People Magazine is too good for bad people, they needed to suffer torture forever.

Scripturally speaking, the significance of Adam and Eves lost access to the Tree of Life is not just a loss of earthly life but a loss of any collective immortality. As Paul tells Timothy, He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen. (1 Tim. 6:1516)

Conditionalists believe that eternal life rests entirely upon a right relationship with God. This is why its called conditionalism. God gifts eternal life on the condition that redemption has occurred. Paul seemed to agree when he told the Romans, God will repay each person according to what they have done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. (Rom. 2:67)

Notice that Gods wrath and anger contrast with a willingness to extend eternal life. This suggests that eternal life is a gift given to those who align themselves to the Lord and isnt simply humankinds natural state.

(Also see verses like John 3:1516, John 10:28, John 17:2, Gal. 6:8, 1 John 5:11, and 1 Cor. 15:5354.)

While conditionalism considers the nature of immortality, annihilationism considers the fate of those who find themselves outside of a redeemed relationship with God through the cross. The two beliefs support each other and are usually seen together.

One of the most beautiful images in Revelation is seeing the tree of life standing once again in humanitys midst (Rev. 22:12). Having God again plant life at the center of humankind tells me that the benefit of being found in Christ is eternal life. So the tree does represent life after all, and its reintroduction suggests to me that this life is given to us as a gift.

For many, Scripture suggests that, apart from Christ, humanity ceases to exist. People who support ECT get caught up in words like eternal punishment, but this doesnt need to be interpreted as torment without end. Annihilation is precisely thateternal punishment. Nothings more eternal than ceasing to exist. I mean, we dont think of the eternal redemption of Hebrews 5:9 or 9:12 as an ongoing process of redemption, but rather a redemption that goes on forever.

You cant ignore 75% of the Bible when you talk about what happens to people after death. But whenever I get into this conversation with a traditionalist, they inevitably tell me that the writers of the Old Testament were not interested in what happens to people after they die. My response is always a resounding, Give me a break!

Throughout the Old Testament, God often threatens the wicked with complete extermination.

Therefore, as tongues of fire lick up straw and as dry grass sinks down in the flames, so their roots will decay and their flowers blow away like dust; for they have rejected the law of the Lord Almighty and spurned the word of the Holy One of Israel.Isaiah 5:24

Notice the imagery of fire that gets transferred over to the New Testament? These tongues of fire may burn forever, but whats thrown in them is burned up (see also Malachi 4:13). God warns that those trapped within his wrath will have their names blotted out under heaven (Deut. 29:20).

The Psalms frequently speak of the wickeds final judgment with verses like:

These are not the only Old Testament references to an end for the enemies of God. You can find this imagery spoken by Daniel (Dan. 2:35), Nahum (Nahum 1:10), Proverbs (Prov. 10:25), and so many more.

Before you say that there wasnt clarity in the Old Testament concerning these issues, Peter goes back to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah to give us a picture of the unredeemeds fate (2 Peter 2:6). Sodom and Gomorrah didnt burn forever. They were blotted out. This mirrors Old Testament language about a final, definitive judgment while contributing to and confirming its position.

The New Testament does kick off with John the Baptists promise that the ax is already at the root of that every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire (Matt. 3:10). Jesus echoes this imagery (Matt. 7:19). But I believe that everywhere that it talks about fires (whether unquenchable or not), the fire represents Gods hatred of sin . . . it isnt going to be extinguished before it consumes whats thrown into it.

By and large, destruction is the imagery used to communicate the fate of those outside of the cross (James 4:12, 2 Peter 2:3, 2 Peter 3:7, 1 Tim. 6:9, Phil. 3:1819, 1 Cor. 3:17, 1 Thess. 5:3). Its verses like these that seem to indicate that the fate of the wicked is destruction and not perpetual torment.

This point of view is also communicated in the way the New Testament talks about death as the final end for the wicked, typically contrasted against the gift of life for the redeemed:

That covers a tiny bit of the Scriptural argument for a final, terminal judgment. As you can see, this position isnt one taken to avoid dealing with Scripture. It seeks to encapsulate and sift through the entirety of the scriptural witness, and not just a handful of proof texts for one position.

I intend to look at the universalism discussion and wade through some common arguments for eternal torment in future discussions.

If you havent already read it, check out my philosophical look at the Absolute Monstrous Absurdity of Believing in Hell.

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Rethinking Hell: a Beginner's Guide to Conditionalism and Annihilationism - Patheos

The Future Games Show: Spring Showcase presented by GamesRadar+ will feature more than 40 games that are coming this year. The event takes place on March 24.

The showcase will have dozens of game trailers, including eight world premieres. The show will last an hour and will be hosted by Horizon Forbidden West voice actors Ashly Burch (Aloy) and John Macmillan (Varl).

Fans can expect game trailers, announcements, and a glimpse of whats to come in 2022. The games will be a varied selection of those releasing on consoles, as well as those releasing on PC. There will be announcements for games big and small, as some will be titles from major companies, while others will be from independent development teams.

Some games that Future has told gamers will be appearing on the show are Sengoku Dynasty, IMMORTALITY, and LEGO: Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, among many others. To watch, fans can head to Twitch, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, or GamesRadar at 5pm CT on March 24.

Join us as we reveal some incredible new games, chat to the developers behind the scenes, and take a first look at new exclusive gameplay from some of 2022s most hotly anticipated new releases, said Futures content director for games and film Daniel Dawkins.

This will be one of three shows that Future will have in 2022. The other two shows will broadcast during the summer and fall months.

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Everything to know about the Future Games Show: Spring 2022 Showcase - Dot Esports