RSVP Blog
"Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth" (Genesis 1:28)
From the scriptures, the above quote has many layers. The message is clear, however conditions apply. You do need to be married in order to "fill the earth". It is a common Christian belief that if you are dating or on the prowl, the ultimate goal and purpose is to find a match for marriage, where you may commence with your fruitful multiplying. Regardless of your faith, dating in order to find a spouse is not such a crazy idea, is it?
Correct me if I'm wrong, but weddings seem to be fairly common practice don't they? Casual dating or dating simply to have companionship (or to avoid another Saturday night paired up with your loving telly) is generally not the 'Christian' idea. Basically, if you don't see yourself spending the rest of your life with that person, you should not pursue them for any other reason. Do you agree with this? Is this how you view dating?
Posted by in Christian Singles at 5:23 PM
Comments (38)Gadgets and gizmos galore!
So many people have a desperate desire to have the latest and the greatest gadget available. No matter how useless, unnecessary or bizarre the gadget is, there always seems to be a perfectly sound reason for them to dish out large sums for these gizmos. "I can't believe I lived my life without this flying alarm clock!" you hear him or her shriek! What's the strangest gadget you've seen or had someone close to you swear by?
Do you find it strange that these what's-its and thingamabobs can be so important to someone?Have you developed a gadget addiction? Share your obsessions or get handy gadget hints and tips from people who are obsessed here!
Posted by in Geeks And Gadgets at 2:16 PM
Comments (83)The Rebound
Breaking up is never easy. Whether it is a mutual decision or a one-sided verdict, unless you're made of stone, you'll usually endure, even if only for a day, the symptoms of breakup-itis. Whilst there are traditional remedies, including ice-cream and a tear-fest - there is also the infamous therapy better known as the 'rebound'. The concept is frowned upon by most, yet somehow it is all too common and rife amongst newly singles. Theoretically and logically - a rebound is not the best choice, however why has no one wisened up to this fact? Could it be that they do benefit one's wellbeing during the tough break-up period? Surely not?
Why is it that someone needs to be mistreated in the interest of mending another's broken heart? Do you think the rebound-ee is half at fault if they are aware that this is the intention of the rebound-er? Do you think that, whether they know it or not, rebound victims still end up feeling used and abused? Have you been on the receiving end of a rebound? Have you yourself resorted to a rebound thinking it would cure your aching heart? Did it work?
Posted by in Dating Life Archive at 10:24 AM
Comments (625)Say what you mean, mean what you say!
Having covered 'sweet-talk', there is a less obvious form of 'talk' that may not be as sweet, but is equally questionable. It may not be charming, but it is still filled with innuendos designed perhaps to string you along? These are the types who speak marvels that don't quite match up to their actions. They hint, insinuate and allude, yet nothing ever comes to fruition. Have you come across one of these, or are you guilty of this yourself? So many relationships are lead to their demise through a whole lot of talk and not enough walk.
Whether the words are empty promises or it is simply a communication breakdown, the spoken word will always influence relationship success or failure. Do actions really speak louder? How much do you focus on what is said rather than what is done? Everywhere you turn - there are words coming at you, most of the time without enough soul. Many words, but do you still find yourself looking for answers? Tell us what you think, and mean what you say!
Posted by in Dating Life Archive at 5:12 PM
Comments (971)Do golfers have a better grip on relationships?
Popular belief categorises all skillful sportsmen as being better suitors. Not only do they have a strong focus and passion toward their sport, they are also fit and strong! Golf is a skillful sport requiring precision, so is it arguable that they may make better partners? Patience is key to golfers, and no doubt, key to making any relationship work.
Clear judgment and careful control are vital to golfers. Interesting - this would come in VERY handy in a relationship, would it not? Do all these qualities transfer from the golf course to the dinner table? Is the golfing precision and patience restricted to the game, or does this manifest into relationships?
Posted by in The 19th Hole at 12:12 PM
Comments (30)Happy (or not so happy) 30th Birthday!
Have you heard of the Lunar event "The Saturn return"? It occurs in a person's life between the ages of 27-30 then again around the age of 58-60. It is said that the planet Saturn takes approximately 29.5 years to orbit the Sun; when it returns to the exact degree it occupied at the time of your birth. Symbolically, Saturn is associated with challenge, fear, doubt, confusion, anxiety, burdens and tough lessons, but it isn't all morbid. Saturn also represents structure, accomplishment, esteem, maturity, responsibility and stability.
This is why astrologers believe that the 30th birthday is such a key rite of passage and is considered by many astrologers to mark the true beginning of adulthood, independence, responsibility, and full maturation. Of course, this is not the case for everyone. Not all of us will reach full maturation by the age of 30; just as we won't all experience chaos and anxiety! What are your thoughts on this? Do you have examples or experiences to support or overrule the Saturn Return?
Posted by in Spiritual Singles at 12:08 PM
Comments (27)"...to quench the fire of love with words..."
Whether your tastes lean more toward the dramatic stylings of William Shakespeare or you prefer the gothic approach of American Edgar Allan Poe - poetry remains one of the most popular ways to tell tales of and to express love and all those things that go along with it. Are you a fan of Emily Bronte's classic lyric poetry? Do you prefer Emily Dickinson's contemporary rhymes? Do you have a favourite poem or a poet you feel really speaks to you? Poetry is often used in marriage vows and proposals, even the old love letter.
It is one of the most ancient literary art forms and can be a most romantic way to express emotions that might otherwise be left concealed. Have you or someone you know used poetry on a special occasion? What are some of the most romantic verses, sonnets and odes you've read or heard being recited? Have you written a loved one a poem or did someone special write one for you? Regardless of the type of poem you love and where you found it, tell us some of your favourites!
Posted by in Lovers Of The Arts at 2:33 PM
Comments (175)What's the meaning of "love"?
Funny that "Love" should be discussed on RSVP... This time, think of it in terms of tennis! There are many theories on why, in tennis, a zero is referred to as "love". Does anyone have the real answer for this? There are many, many theories. One of the most common thoughts is that it is said to be an altered form of the French word l'oeuf meaning "egg", for the reason that an egg has a round shape like a zero. What do you think? Seeing that court tennis originated in 14th century France, this is rather plausible, no?
Also, when pronounced properly "l'oeuf" sounds just like "love". However, it can also be traced to the 17th-century expression "play for love" meaning 'to play without any wager, for nothing'. Could it be this meaning of 'nothing' that love takes on when used in tennis? It is a nice thought - rather a romantic notion to play for the love of the game rather than for any reward or without agenda. Your thoughts?
Posted by in Tennis Aces at 2:05 PM
Comments (36)Are Girls the new Black?
Hollywood is consistently supplying a flavour-of-the-month. The latest fashion accessory for women: another woman. It has been penned "Lesbian-chic". As school girls on the train sing along to lyrics "I kissed a girl and I liked it", the trend becomes obvious. Do these kids even know what they are singing about? How do you feel about the glamourisation of girl/girl relationships? What are your thoughts on the idea of females dating females as part of a fashion statement?
Whilst of course, there are genuine women expressing their sexuality more openly, it has become no secret that a lot of celebrities (e.g. The Veronicas, Lindsay Lohan) are cashing in on a trend and switching from dating men to dating women, when and as they please. Does it make you question how authentic these girls are, or do you think they are just having an identity crisis? Do you agree that it is a trend being fuelled by celebrities and the media, or do you think that women are simply being encouraged to be more open and honest about their sexuality?
Posted by in The Gaybourhood at 11:50 AM
Comments (84)The Chronicles of New Zealand...
It's no wonder New Zealand's stunning scenery is the backdrop of choice for epic fantasy films The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia, among countless others. Who wouldn't want to visit a fantasy world? Are you considering or have you considered a trip to NZ? Did you know that RSVP members are being offered just this opportunity? Would you like to travel with other singles around the superb South Island of New Zealand? Have you attended or considered an RSVP trip? Are you booked-in or thinking about taking this particular trip? Perhaps you'd like to go, but wish you had a room mate to share the experience?
What if you could connect with other members who may be joining you on this trip, before you leave our shores! How would you feel about sharing your room with a fellow member? Group travel is a great way to meet new people and, with your itinerary completely organised for you, all you have to do is book and show up! How do you feel about group travel? What are your thoughts on travelling with new people? Does this excite you? Have you tried this way of travelling? If you are interested in visiting NZ, why not chat with fellow bloggers and possibly meet prior to committing to the trip!
Posted by in Adventure Travellers at 10:36 AM
Comments (19)Canoe Canoodling
What could be better than a romantic date outdoors? There are so many open-air options for the counter-homebody. I'm not just talking outdoor tranquility, relaxation and leisureliness. I'm referring to the more exhilarating, death-defying and adventurous options. Have you ditched the old candlelit dinner or picnic in the park for a whitewater rafting rendezvous? Or perhaps a little canoe canoodling? It is amazing how much you can learn about a prospective love interest by seeing how they use a paddle to maneuver a canoe using only their muscle power.
You might see a side to someone that pleasantly surprises you. Have you been on a daring date? Did you find out anything interesting about your partner (or potential partner)? Were you shocked to learn they had innate survival skills and impressive control? Perhaps some of their weaker points were revealed? What are some of the most adventurous dates you've been on?
Posted by in The Great Outdoors at 12:23 PM
Comments (113)Direct to DVD
Direct-to-video (better known now as direct to DVD) is a phrase that continues to have a stigma attached. No level of format updating can change the fact that the movie did not make it to the cinema - and some people just can't get past that. Whilst there are many reasons why these films are released in such a way, they are still seen by many movie buff types as having lower artistic or technical quality and credibility.
It might be that the film was a huge flop at the box office overseas, it might even be that the film couldn't obtain a theatrical release at all, anywhere in the world. However reasons such as low budget or controversial themes don't make a movie less credible, do they? Do you give these movies a good go, or do you skip past them sneering when choosing a flick at the DVD store?Have you seen any you would recommend, or is the stigma valid?
Posted by in Movie Buffs Archive at 3:12 PM
Comments (19)The Celebrity Chef
Noticed a flood of celebrity chefs lately? They are everywhere! On TV, putting out recipe books and utensils or endorsing something or other and making a mint by basically selling their name. Ever been to one of their restaurants? Was the person famed for their cooking actually cooking there? Restaurants can have enormous appeal due to a famous chef heating up the kitchen. Place a celebrity behind your hotplates and you have almost guaranteed success. Do you only eat where you know who the head chef is? Ever been to a restaurant for a famed chef and left disappointed?
Are you happy to pay extra (even if food is minimal) when you know the person behind the meal is well renowned? Celebrity chefs appear to be the new stars of TV too - with channels dedicated to them and some prime-time TV slots entirely reserved for them. Think Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsay, Nigella Lawson and Neil Perry. They've lapped up quite a healthy paycheck thanks to their cooking skill. Do you enjoy their shows? Do you have a favourite?
Posted by in Food and Wine Lovers at 4:01 PM
Comments (156)Theme Party Time!
The perfect way to break the ice and create an instantly fun atmosphere is to throw a theme party (this is arguable, of course)! Despite the poopers who choose not to participate, there are always those who make a real effort and impress with fabulous costumes. Whether you've donned a Prince Charles mask or an all-out pirate ensemble, we've all experienced the fun, memorable and sometimes embarrassing fancy dress party. What are some of the best theme parties you've been to?
What are the most unusual? What are some of the most amusing costumes you've seen? If you've been to a party where someone was dressed as the ozone layer, this is the sort of thing we want to hear about! We're not after the old 80s party, Luau or Halloween bash: I'm looking for the craziest, scariest, funniest, most creative party themes and costumes you've ever seen! If you're thinking along the lines of the "Crazy Hair" party or the "Come as something you hate" party, then you have the right idea.
Posted by in Party Animals at 3:09 PM
Comments (22)Talking sweet, is it cheap?
What are your thoughts on the overly expressive types who confess their undying desire for you after having known you for a week? We all love to believe these sugary words at some point. But why is there always that sickly feeling, similar to the overindulgence that results in heartburn? How many times have you believed the exaggerated passion of a practical stranger? Did it last long enough for you to see whether or not they were genuinely head-over-heels for you? Did it seem their inflated emotions were loaded with ulterior motives?
It may seem cynical to question someone's flattery, but sometimes when it is all too much and all too soon - you have to wonder, don't you? Then again, this is easier said than done, as it is easy to be charmed by their worship! Have you allowed such smooth talkers to win you over? Have you dismissed someone before for being too sweet? Is their chatter cheap, or are they simply candid, communicative individuals? Do they mean what they say? Tell us about your experiences...
Posted by in Dating Life Archive at 4:11 PM
Comments (762)Looking at the book beyond the cover...
The expression "Don't judge a book by its cover" has been used for centuries. Have you ever actually considered how authors and booksellers feel about this phrase? Let's take this saying quite literally for a moment and find out if it really is unimportant what the cover of a book looks like. Surely you've been in a bookstore and picked up an unknown title because the cover was attractive to you or intriguing in some way?
Why do you think so much importance is placed by authors and publishers on finding the right photographer, artist or graphic designer to create the perfect covers for their books? Is it really all that wrong to judge a book by its cover, if it means more people might buy it and read it? Aren't we visual creatures after all? What are some of the most effective covers you've seen? What are some of the worst/least appealing to the eye? In all honesty - how much of an influence does the cover of a book have on you?
Posted by in Book Worms at 2:32 PM
Comments (122)Do Dogs Smell Danger?
An astounding recent study shows that dogs are able to detect cancer in humans through their astute sense of smell. There are tales of dog owners who've been lucky enough to have their dog discover a cancer before it was too late. And it is no just cancer that they are said to sense. It has long been recognised that dogs are aware of many things on a level that we could only imagine. Do you have any dog tales to tell where this strong 'sixth sense' was evident?
Have you ever seen your dog react strangely to oncoming weather conditions, particularly storms? Ever seen your dog go mad in the face of thin air and wondered if perhaps the dog sensed something else was there? Have you been extremely emotional around your dog and realised that the canine was conscious and even tried comforting you at that moment? Do you know of a dog who has detected an illness in their owner? Perhaps a dog that has foreseen extreme danger and acted as a warning?
Posted by in Mans Best Friend at 11:52 AM
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