Can You Hear Me Now

What in the heck in the world is going on? Greek girl is posting another blog not even a week after the last one, when for the last several years she is lucky if she writes one a year? No, your eyes do not deceive you, yes I am here with another post.

So, what is the breaking news? Remember my last post about my song “We The People” being promoted to AC & Rock radio stations… Well, that is not the only one of my song now available on the radio, yup! My song “Can You Hear Me” is also being promoted to radio stations. It is now available on AC (Adult Contemporary), CCM (Contemporary Christian), & International Christian Radio stations, both traditional radio as well as SiriusXM, Music Choice and more. 

This is the first time my songs are being promoted to radio, and it is very exciting to put the music out in a broader form than we have ever done. Why “Can You Hear Me” to radio? Why now? Just as in choosing to promote “We The People”, it’s timing. It’s all about what is going on in our world and the days we are living in. 

There is just so much going on, it can be very overwhelming both mentally and physically. So many people are going through hard times. From wars and rumors of wars, to (natural) disasters, to politics, to technology invading daily life at a terrifying rate, to everything else that seems to all be happening all at once. The world although still filled with tremendous good is more chaotic than ever. 

Just like when I released the song, I felt that it was time. “Can You Hear Me” is a letter to God. With everything that's been happening in the past few years, have you ever wondered if anyone is listening... 

Everyone at some point in life finds themselves broken. "Can You Hear Me" is for anyone who has ever been in that place. Life can be messy, it's OK to be there... Beautifully broken, perfectly imperfect. Messes can turn into messages.

I thought it to be fitting in this time we are living when so many people feel hopeless, that it could be a little glimmer of hope to bind us together in a common thread. That we are indeed heard, that we are not ever broken beyond repair, and that we are never, ever alone. 

So thank you for taking the time to not only read this blog, but also for supporting my music, and most importantly contacting your local / SiriusXM Christian and Adult Contemporary radio stations to request the song “Can You Hear Me” by Ava Aston. Oh, and if you have not done so already, download it and share the video with friends! Thank you again! 

Blessings, Love & Music ~

Ava xo

www.avaaston.com 

You Can't Make Me

Ever had the joyous experience of watching a child throw a temper tantrum? Not too much fun one could say. Well lately I feel like I'm watching a great big giant collective temper tantrum.

In case you hadn't noticed there is an election looming. Hard to escape the fact, since the news never misses an opportunity to remind us. I have to admit though; I'm finally starting to see why some people don't pay attention. All too often the topic can be maddening. With so much "opinion" vs. "actual "journalism" being dished out as "news" it's almost enough to make me want to "tune out" what's going on. Almost... but I can't. Why? Because, it is just too important.

America and our future are too important. That's why it literally makes me go off the rail bonkers when people say they are not going to vote. Or when they say they haven't voted in years, sometimes even decades. It just does not compute. Sure one could say, "it's a free country, it's my right to not vote if I don't want to."  Whenever I hear something like that, my inside voice is saying something like "tell it to the men and women who bled and died for that right." 

In my opinion it is highly disrespectful to not only those men and women, but also to our creator. A creator that was highly instrumental in America's founding, and founding documents. One may never know this since the leftie loons have done a good job of twisting and turning history to remove him from everywhere he might be able to offend anyone (or invade their safe space). Meanwhile we Christians just roll over and live in our little bubbles. It's also disrespectful to the millions of people all over the world who would give anything to live in a free country, and be able to have a say in their government. Some people think their vote doesn't really "matter" so they just don't bother. Whenever I hear someone say something like that my inside voice is saying something like "well maybe if everyone participated your vote actually would matter". 

For the people, by the people only works if "we" do. I actually had a guy tell me the other day a Christian and a veteran (a marine mind you) that he had not voted since Dole because there was no one who "reflected his values". There were just so many things wrong with that statement I didn't know where to even begin to unscramble his noggin. Yes I know he is free to think what he wants, but really... hasn't voted since Dole? Oh my nerves.

It's no secret that I am a Christian. I am also not a perfect person (shocking I know, please put on your surprise face) but since there are no perfect people, and the only perfect person to ever have lived was Jesus, I am just not looking for a candidate for President who can walk on water. Maybe it's so I won't be disappointed when I find out they are human like the rest of us.

I do though find it very ironic when a Christian takes this position of not going to vote because they "don't like the candidates". The bible says we are to influence and occupy until he comes. So how does a Christian think they are doing that if they sit out elections because they "don't like" the options? Christians believe God is in control of everything don't we? Or do we only believe this to be true when we like the outcome?

To quote my veteran husband who is also a Christian; "I would much rather see someone exercising their right to vote, even if it's not for my candidate than to stay home and whine and complain about the outcome."

There are two choices. There is no viable third party candidate that can beat either of the two major party choices. As much as people want that to be, it is not. Possibly someday in the future it may. So for now lets just deal with what's real. There are two choices, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump. Neither is perfect. What a person should be asking himself or herself is: who out of the two aligns "most" with my values, and worldview. It is really that simple.

Someone saying they are not going to vote in my view is the equivalent of a child having a temper tantrum, taking their toys and leaving the sandbox in kindergarten when things don't go their way. It's actually quite stubborn and selfish in my opinion. Especially for people whom are known to be diametrically opposed to one candidate, yet they have no problem at all staying home and allowing her to walk away with the election (with the media's help).

There's about one hundred days left for people get their heads screwed on right and do what is right..., which is vote. Republicans and conservatives complain that we can't seem to win elections. Well did they ever stop to think and observe the Democrats? At the end of the day they stand together even if they can't stand each other. What do we do? We fight and argue and complain so we can all have the last word. The vitriol and degree to which it's going on is shocking to say the least. What in the heck in the world would our founders say if they were here today to see all the malarkey going on?

So here are a few nuggets of information for anyone who was thinking to sit it out to consider.

Watch: https://youtu.be/C9Eg2jBEQtg

Read: http://townhall.com/columnists/wayneallynroot/2016/06/24/a-message-for-christians-about-donald-trump-n2182796

Watch: Genius from my bud Alfonzo Rachel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyqLsQZmBMw

Watch: Clinton Cash Documentary: The truth about what Clinton cares about not people, money. https://youtu.be/7LYRUOd_QoM

Lastly Watch: "Hillary's America" Film a MUST SEE!
https://youtu.be/Bxn5I6tnU_Y

After reading and watching all that it can be no secret that I roll to the right; it's not about that though. It's not about left or right; it's about right and wrong. It's about America. America is about freedom, a government for the people by the people, and it can only work if we do. So as an "American" regardless even if you love Hillary (though you might want to get your noggin checked if that's the case) but seriously, it's about America. No-one can make you vote, but it is the right thing to do. So, don't be a dope... vote!

Have a great day! Blessings.
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

Love Everywhere

                It's amazing what happens when you look at the world through the lens of love.

It's almost here... don't you just love how culture today seems to jump from one Holiday to the next before you even have time to enjoy the present one? I mean geesh it's not even January 1st when you're walking down the aisles at your local Target Store and Bamm there it is: the Valentine's chocolate is staring you down (not that I mind chocolate staring me down anytime of the year). Seriously though... it's just seems totally out of hand these days.

Sometimes I'd like to write a giant memo to the media, pop culture and the retail marketplace. If I could I would say: Slow down, enjoy life. Live the moment you're "in" before you worry about planning (or shall I say helping people to plan) the "perfect" next one. So about those holidays, it's almost time for the one all about love... Valentine's Day. Are you ready?

Speaking of hearts mine is very happy these days. I am blessed to have had true love in my life for a long time now, so yes Valentine's Day makes my heart happy. However, my heart is bursting right now because I recently finished recording two brand new songs. They are special because they are my very first CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) songs and I can't wait to share them. I just submitted them to the copyright office. The new songs will soon be released to iTunes. Music videos are planned for spring, exact date coming soon so... stay tuned.

Why am I so excited about these songs? Because for my entire life I have loved to sing. Ever since I was a little kid, from the time I started to talk, and as long as I can remember, I have been getting lost in music. I was like a little Tina Turner (in the movie "What's Love got To Do With It") with the hairbrush in the mirror giving concerts in my bedroom, writing songs in my journal. After years of pursuing music for my own selfish reasons I came to a point where I turned it over to God with a desire to use my voice to be a blessing. To use every ounce of the gift he put in me to further his kingdom and touch people's hearts and minds for Christ.

Let's face it we are living in a crazy upside down world and it is just getting crazier by the day. Pop culture is completely saturated with icons, idols, symbols, and messages (both blatant and subliminal) that are the polar opposite of anything Godly. These things are even hidden in figures portrayed as good, light and positive. When in reality they are nothing but puppets of a much more sinister organization, a plan all designed to deceive and dumb down from the enemy. I find it sad to see people today, even people who call themselves Christians who believe in the Bible as the word of God, yet they are blind to what is going on around them. They watch and listen, as well as allow their kids to watch and listen to things in the pop culture world that are poisoning their minds.

Enter the antidote... you and me. We all have gifts and talents put into us by our creator. Gifts and talents to be used for his purpose to share the message of the gospel and counter the negative junk that is being pushed everywhere. So I for one have decided to use everything within me. Everything that I have to be the polar opposite of what is out there. To do good, and to be a light in a dark world. To help the hurting, love the lonely, lift the fallen, heal the broken and show the face of love that Jesus came to show us all.

Love can be everywhere when we all do something. There are opportunities all around us. There are hurting people, and animals who need to be rescued. We can all be a part of sprinkling love by using the gifts and talents we have to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Happy Valentine's!

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

The Fourth Verse

Throughout history God has blessed America. It's time for America to bless God.

Yesterday was the 200th Anniversary of the writing of our National Anthem "The Star Spangled Banner". Many people these days don't give the lyrics a second thought. There are even some in the media who have totally misinterpreted the lyrics and feel that our National Anthem should be changed.

When I think about where our nation was 200 years ago, in the midst of a war, I am humbled by the words. Not many people remember or even know the true meaning behind the song. We are also in a war of sorts in our Nation today. There is a movement of people who want to take God out of everything and anywhere he might possibly be able to "offend" anyone. Yet they can not see that very act is causing so much chaos and confusion, thus weakening our Nation.

An event took place at churches all across the Nation last night called "Star Spangled Sunday" put on by the Family Research Council. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn the forgotten story about the Great Acts of Faith behind our National Anthem. Yes as much as some people want to wipe "Faith" from our founding and choose to misinterpret our founding documents, America was in fact founded on Christian principals. Our founders were deeply religious men who understood what happens when a Government can give you everything, it can also take away everything, including how you're allowed to worship. They were farmers, clergymen, ordinary men and women who did extraordinary things not in  their own strength, but with help from almighty God. They prayed and believed for divine intervention from the Lord which happened on many occasions. Stories of these miracles of course have been wiped from the history books. The Star Spangled Sunday event offered an eye opening look at the true story and meaning behind the lyrics to the beautiful song that is our National Anthem.

The event was a call to action to Christians across our nation to Stand Up for our religious freedom. A key point of the event was the Fourth Verse of the Anthem that isn't talked about much these days. Reading it knowing the true story of the situations that led the writing of the song, there is no doubt about the Faith of it's author or the meaning. Although not many in government today choose to utilize our Constitution, it is still incredibly unique and what has made America the beacon of hope for people across the globe for generations. People have risked life and limb including my own father to immigrate here. One little word though misinterpreted can make a big difference to people whose agenda it is to remove God and Christianity from society. They can use the misinterpretation as a weapon in a process of a very slow fade. Done over time to dumb down our society to the point where one day you look around and realize how far its gone and wonder how in heck the world did we ever get here. How did we ever let this happen to our nation? The founding documents say Freedom "Of" Religion. However the people who desire to remove Christianity from society twist it to say "From". Little word, big difference in it's meaning.

Our founders were not Muslims, they were Christians. Christians who fled a tyrannical government in England who risked everything to be free to worship God as Christians. They did not want to be forced to have a Government appointed church, Catholic or any other set denomination. Freedom "OF" means freedom to practice whatever denomination one chooses. Yes I know, many people choose to ignore God and want to be free to do whatever they want regardless of the consequences and so they twist a lot of things, including history. The problem is when we Christians turn the other cheek, remain silent and complacent, decades go by and all of a sudden we are living in a modern day war of sorts. Not that much different from the war of 1812 when Francis Scott Key wrote that beautiful song.

We are on the front lines of a war on Christianity. Government and organizations like the ACLU bend over backwards to make sure we do not offend homosexuals and Muslims. While at the same time will not lift a finger to respect the rights of Christians. In fact going out of their way to marginalize and prohibit Christians from exercising their Faith. So far as to even prohibit our Military men and women from sharing their Faith. Really? Think about that for a minute... America is where it is today because of the brave men and women who have stood in harms way in engagement after engagement throughout history; who have relied upon their Faith in God to deliver them. So here we are, government is standing for the rights of everyone except Christians. The question is what will "we" do?

As I watched the event last night so inspired by the passionate speakers, time after time chills ran down my spine as one after another they quoted lines from a song I wrote about this very issue. Ironically I wrote my song right around September 12th, 2009. The day after the very first March on DC, where Americans gathered to Stand Up and send a message to Barack Obama and his minions that "We The People" were not happy with his hope and change. During the War of 1812 the key miracles and God intervention leading to the writing of the song took place September 11th through the 14th.

As the daughter of a man who came to America with $20 in his pocket to live the American dream, I grew up with a reverence and appreciation for the incredible opportunity that is available here in America. Opportunity that does not exist anywhere else on the face of the earth. When I saw hope and change a la Barack Obama my heart was saddened. Sad that millions of people were hypnotized into a state by the media and entertainment figures and blindly led into letting others do their thinking for them. Allowing the government to speak for them and ultimately to speak for the rest of us. By instituting things like government run health care, and so many other actions that are diametrically opposed to the entire concept of our founding principals.

The question is what will we do... the following are some of the lyrics to my song:

"What's going on, I look around, and I don't recognize this place anymore. Foundations crumbling down, when only lies abound. We can not afford to sit back and ignore. 

"Time to Stand Up, Time to Speak Out, We've got to Fight to get it back... This Country's Our's and We're Taking it Back, We The People."

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jut7s68pnpg[/embed]

(Click to read entire lyrics here)

I wrote that song on a cocktail napkin while working my pay the bill job as a bartender at a catering event during Fashion Week in NYC. An environment full of ultra left leaning liberals who were all under the spell of Obama praising the hope and change. After five years have passed it is frightening to see how more eerily true the words become by the day.

The Star Spangled Sunday event was a call to action to Christian Americans to stand up and fight. How do we fight? No we're not all ultra wealthy, or media figures, or talking heads. What we are though is Christians. All of us, the moms, the dads, the firemen, the Pastors, the nurses, the military, ordinary people who do the things that make our country work, we must all stand united. We must start to pay attention like never before. We must support the things throughout pop culture that represent our values especially in film, and music. Because if we don't the mainstream media will continue to produce and promote entertainment that is denigrating our society. Then we must vote our values. The Family Research Council is on the cutting edge of a movement to ensure we have the tools to do just that. They announced two new initiatives to help Christians vote our values. To make an impact to stop this slow fade and fundamental transformation of America. Visit 123vote.com and ipledgesunday2014.com to get involved and learn how you can make a difference!

Remember, if we do not speak up someone else will speak for us. As we have already seen over the last five years, we will not like what they have to say.

Rising Star on ABC

Want to see little ol' me on this new show? ;o)

Would you like to see me on a "New Music Talent" Show by ABC called Rising Star ?

If you're sitting there thinking "What in the heck in the World are you talking about Greek Girl - did you fall down and hit you noggin?!" I know most of you know how I feel about TV Talents shows... but hey a little National Exposure can go a long, long way for an Independent Recording Artist like myself. I had actually planned to attend the open call in NYC this past week. However, due to the relapse in my back injury from the car accidents I was unable to attend as I could not even stand that day. In fact I spent most of that day at the Chiropractor & getting an MRI, I know sounds like oodles of fun.

Thank goodness I'm on the mend again, and decided to do a video submission instead. So with that said I need to ask a favor, hey you never know. If people nominate me it could help. I value your support and trust you would write a good recommendation about Greek Girl! If you'd like to help, here's what to do:

Visit This Link to Nominate Me: (follow the prompts)
www.iamarisingstar.com

(My Social Media Links to make it easy)
www.avaaston.com
www.facebook.com/officialavaastonmusicpage
www.twitter.com/avaaston
www.youtube.com/avaaston
www.pinterest.com/avaaston
www.instagram.com/avaaston
www.reverbnation.com/avaaston

When it gets to the Video Submission. Below is my "official online video audition". You may use it if you like or any of the other videos on my youtube channel.

Here's the link to my "Acapella Channel" on my YouTube page. There are over 60+ songs, so you can choose whatever you like best.

"Ava Aston Acapella Channel Youtube":
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD36065AB49A17789

HURRY though the LAST DAY to nominate me is This Wednesday April 30th Midnight Pacific Time! Just follow the prompts and tell them why you think I'd be great for the show. I appreciate your time and support very much! Thank you so much guys, your time is very much appreciated! Have a great week!

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

Damned If Ya Do Damned If Ya don't

Don't See, Don't Buy...

With so much junk and minutia being passed off as "entertainment" for what is seeming like forever one would think that people, in particular Christians would be happy to see projects coming out that have anything to do with the bible. Surprisingly though it seems to be the total opposite.

Ironically Christians seem to be the first ones to jump on the "boycott" wagon starting virtual internet crusades for people (meaning Good Christians) to not see a particular project. We've all seen them bombarding our Facebook news feeds where this organization or that one is on a mission spread the word to make sure something tanks. I find this not only silly but also hypocritical.

You would think that after things like oh let me see where shall I begin?... Beyonce's Super Bowl halftime show where she pranced around dressed like a 1920's hooker dancing like a stripper on a pole in front of millions of people including children. Lets not forget Miley's twerking escapades, I know I know she is only "expressing herself" (remember when Madonna did that? oh to go back to the days when Madonna was being "Shocking"). We also have the gay agenda being shoved down the throats of every man woman and child in this country (personally I don't care what people do in their bedrooms but don't call me hateful because I believe "marriage" is between one man and one woman). Then there's Islam Ignorance, you know that "peaceful religion" which in reality is a sick twisted violent and barbaric cult being not only tolerated but promoted all over the country. Meanwhile Christians are silenced as being hateful and bigoted. God out of the workplace, out of schools, out of government, and what do we have? Chaos. Watching all this happen right in front of our very eyes one would think that a Christian would be happy, not just happy but giddy to see some form of entertainment coming out whether it be a film, TV miniseries, music artist, heck even a preacher on TV, something, anything that has to do with the bible and not a half naked person, violence, or foul language being passed off as "art".

So to me when I see crusades for people to boycott a film, artist, or preacher it makes me laugh inside. First thing... this is to all the "Super Christians" of the world, get off your moral high horse. The only perfect person ever was Jesus. We're saved by Grace that can't be earned. Not one of us was there when the bible was written. Second it was written by whom? Man, which is what? Human. Therefore not perfect, and it has been translated how many times? In how many languages? My point is, arguing over potato vs. potato-to kind of things is silly and very counter productive. We have one job as followers of Christ, that is to go and spread the "Good News" period! Jesus was clear when he gave us The Great Commission. In Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Reading that I don't see Jesus telling them to: go around poking your nose in other Christians business to make sure they are living right according to your standards of interpretation of the bible, or to judge every book, film, TV program to see if it is "biblically accurate". Do you? Yet so many Christians get so wrapped in judging other Christians life and work, rather than spending their time much more fruitfully by working to reach souls for the Kingdom. Working instead to reach the people of the world who do not know the peace that passes all understanding, the love above all other loves, found only in one place... Jesus.

The thing the haters are missing is, you are not going to reach people by walking in and slapping them in the face. So many people in todays world are so lost, hurting so bad, and have been so judged, they are simply not going to respond to that kind of message, they just aren't. So in a modern world, when an artist takes a different approach to telling a story or to open the dialogue we shouldn't be working against them. Now if someone is putting out a film that has blatant fabrications like I don't know saying something like Jesus was married or something like that then of course that is something to not support or be a part of. However when someone is mad because a good looking actor is cast in a movie or miniseries as Jesus, to me that signals something off with the accuser.

For films like Noah where everyone is losing their minds about the portrayal of God as angry and it being made by a non Christian film maker, again all I can say is HELLO it's HOLLYWOOD. It was never portrayed or promoted to be a learning tool for a bible study. It's a Hollywood Film, and should be taken as such, entertainment. Christians should know the bible well enough to discern what is entertainment. For some who worry that non believers who would be watching the film might walk away from a Hollywood film with that being their only and final idea about God, again is silly and small minded.

Any Christian who has accepted Jesus into their heart knows they responded to his knock. He knocks, and knocks, and over time some shorter, some longer than others, but every person who accepts him into their heart does so in response to his knocking, him initiating it. He comes to us, he died for us. To the non believer watching that film, it just opens the door, it opens the door to faith. It opens the door even with all of it's "biblical errors" as one might be concerned about, it still opens the door to a belief in a creator, in something that is bigger than yourself. That's the point the haters are missing, even if the film maker didn't intend it to.

It's the same with what I like to call "Pastor Derangement Syndrome" that so many Christians of today seem to be infected with. So many people are quick to watch an edited "snipit" of an interview or sermon and believe the point the editor made it to have. Yet will not sit through and entire episode or sermon of said pastor or evangelist to see the truth of what they really preach. The thing is everyone responds differently to different people. We are all different. If X,Y, or Z pastor is on TV and reaches one just one soul for Christ and turns that soul around, who am I, you are the next guy to criticize them? I certainly don't want to be standing before God explaining why I spent so much time badmouthing people sharing the gospel.

My ultimate point is with the Miracle of Easter coming, it saddens me to see so many "Christians" slamming so many other Christians or projects that could really help to change what we see in pop culture. We all know that pop culture is a total mess. Everywhere we turn it's sex, sex and more sex. Want to sell toothpaste? Sex. Want to sell a car? Sex. Want to sell a house? Sex. For crying out loud we have a TV Show called "Dance Moms" where people are dressing up their five to seven year old little girls in red lipstick and fish net stockings and false eye lashes, spending obscene amounts of time and money to ensure their child leave the competition with a trophy? Good grief!

I just think we have far more important things to worry about than to complain because "The Bible", "Son Of God" movie or miniseries or films like "Noah" are out. Christians are not complaining about things like "Dance Moms", "American Idol" (um hello look at the second word in that title please), "Secret Lives of Nashville Wives", and the list goes on. Christians will boycott "The Bible" miniseries yet not any of the above mentioned items. In my mind it's time to do a gut check about what we spend our time doing and or working against. Kudos when people stand up for Duck Dynasty and films like God's Not Dead, but we have a lot more standing up to do. That is unless you're perfectly happy with the status quo and the decline in the moral fabric of our society. On the other hand if you want to see more half naked Beyonce, Katy Perry, twerking, no consequences and losing your freedoms more by the day. Then by all means, boycott away... just sayin.

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava :D xo
www.avaaston.com

God's Not Dead

"God's Not Dead, He's Surely Alive. He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion!!" - Newsboys

True story.... in my first year of college (yes I did actually go to college), I came home all upset and my mom asked what was the matter? I proceeded to tell her how my Biology professor had asked the class a question earlier that day..."who in the room was a Christian and believed in the story of God and or Jesus?". Not wanting to deny my faith I  raised my hand along with a few others in the class. That was when he decided it was a good idea to not only mock but also challenge us about it. He went on to further say, "If we believe in God then we have to prove his existence." So I went home understandably upset, and not wanting to be embarrassed, spent most of the way home thinking of how to proceed.

Now, don't get me wrong, I know my Bible and all that but was not nearly as vocal about my faith then as I am now, as I was just a young Greek Girl at the time. So back to when I arrived home... If you guessed that my mom was very perturbed when I told her what happened, you guessed right. She couldn't believe that a professor would think it was his place to do such a thing. Now, if you know anything about my mom let's just say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and if you know how I am with my Big Fat Greek opinion, then you can get an idea of how my mom is.   

She could not believe her ears when I told her the details of the days episode. In a swoosh she marched off to her bedroom and grabbed her trusty Bible, a legal pad and a pen. In no time she was marching back toward me and sat me down at the kitchen table where she proceeded to give me a sermon. Probably the most extensive Bible study I have ever had in my life. It was like an encyclopedia of knowledge poured out of her noggin. So there I was armed with all sorts of ammunition when I went back to school the next day. I strapped on my favorite sneakers and marched my butt into class with a notepad chockfull of notes and said (beneath a mischievous grin) something to the effect of, "well... here you go." It was great because it actually shut him up, thanks mom!

I felt so good and he actually left me alone. It was short lived though as it was not even two days later my English professor decided that the class had to watch the film "The Last Temptation of Christ", starring Willem Defoe. I couldn't believe what my ears were hearing. If you don't know anything about that movie, just image "Jesus of Nazareth" in the Red Light District. I couldn't believe this was happening again. So I went home to inform my mom of the newest chapter in the college indoctrination episode. She then did what any good Godly mother would do and made a big stink. She called the college and demanded that her daughter not watch that stupid and twisted movie. Needless to say, I did not have to watch the movie and I was able to do my report on another topic.

Now fast forward umpteen years later and low-and-behold, we have a movie hitting the theater's called, "God's Not Dead." It's about almost the same thing, a liberal professor that takes it upon himself to ridicule and belittle the faith of a student who believes in God and Jesus. Just another instance where liberal logic unloads itself in our society and how some have taken to demonizing and tearing down people of faith. Ironically Christians are known for being positive and helpful loving people, even to those who do not share our values or faith. Something these Liberal professors love to profess is how we shouldn't "impose our Christian beliefs on others", yet they do not see the hypocrisy when they think it's a good idea to impose their liberal ideology, kumbaya craziness, and global warming gobbley goop on others people's children, just sayin.

Anyway, back to the movie. I think it's so cool that this storyline is something that actually happened to me and it's now on the Big Screen for the world to see. I am so thrilled that it has had only a limited opening and has already grossed over $8million in less than 800 theaters worldwide. In fact it came in 5th overall for the weekend on box office totals in openings this past weekend.

Since my mom and step-dad stopped by on their way home from Florida we didn't get to see it on opening weekend. However, you can count on one thing... where I will be this week. I am going to wrap my hot little hands around a popcorn and CocaCola in a dark theater with my sweetie as we watch and celebrate that, "GOD IS NOT DEAD"!

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

Son Of God

I give it a Thumbs Up.

Having watched "The Bible" miniseries last year leading up to Easter and very much enjoying it I'm sure it will come as no surprise that I have been super excited to see the film "Son Of God". In fact I had been waiting with baited breath to see it and went opening day, Friday night.

Then it happened, I made the mistake of looking at my phone and just as it did last year, the hate started to consume my newsfeed on Facebook. Before I knew it the internet was full of it. Full of what you might be wondering? Super Christians bashing a film, in many cases some had not even taken the time to see yet before proceeding to write a scathing review about how "biblically Incorrect" it is.

I had already experienced many of these same "Super Christians" bashing "The Bible" miniseries before and it irked me so much that I blogged about it last year (read that blog here) Seeing these people bash the film in particular when it is "Christians" doing the bashing is beyond silly if you ask me. In my opinion they are just as bad as the Pharisees who killed Jesus. It is totally counter productive and further in my opinion actually disrespectful to Jesus to bash and or nit pick these things to death. It is one thing if someone is preaching a false doctrine, however some Christians seem to get some sort of satisfaction from super judging. Anyhow this is what I thought about the film.

The thing is as bad as it is today in our country and around the world politically... Jesus is bigger than politics. We are all called to go and spread the good news to all of creation and to be the light. Unfortunately most of us myself included get far too distracted with things that ultimately do not matter in the end. Yes there was a lot of hoopla made in the media about the editing out of the "Devil" character. It didn't bother me that they took the devil out of it, after all it's about the Gospel of Jesus, not the gospel of the devil. The film starts with Jesus coming into Galilee so it's focused on Jesus and his message and his time with the disciples up until his death so it makes sense that they took it out anyway.

Now regarding the "theologically correct" part that people seem to be losing their minds about... the point of the film and mini series as I understand it from seeing them in interviews talking about it, was to bring the message of salvation and Jesus Christ to people in a way that will reach them in "todays world". To reach people and change hearts with the love of Jesus. For people (Christians in particular) to nit pick every single little thing in my opinion is just as bad as the Pharisees who killed Jesus because he did not come "the way they thought a king should". Why... because they were too wrapped up in their own "religiosity" to see him "The Son of Man" standing right there in front of their faces.

No one was around when the scriptures were written and they have been translated how many times? The important thing is the message being correct and in that vein it was correct. What annoyed the fire out of me was seeing people last year saying they were boycotting the bible miniseries at Easter because thus and such and then at the same time not having any problem with Beyonce and the Superbowl debacle and then being obsessed with shows like American Idol, along with engaging in things that totally contradict their supposed ideology.... which is a total hypocrisy.

Jesus instructed us to go and spread the "good news", further to GO and preach the message of salvation (the gospel) to every corner and to every creature and to love one another and to be the light. Far too often Christians spend too much time pointing out the speck in others eyes while walking around with a giamungo plank in their own eyes.

When a hollywood power couple spends their time and resources to produce a film about Christianity in a modern way to try to cut through to pop culture which is a total mess btw and then Christians sit around bashing their efforts because thus and such pastor i.e. "Joel Osteen" was a consultant on the film is ridiculously unproductive if you ask me. I do not think Jesus would be happy about that kind of behavior. Just my opinion of course one can take it or leave it.

Some have said the film is blasphemous and changes the scripture and all kinds of other outrageous things. Some have even made these claims with out even seeing the film mind you. Newsflash to these Debbie Downers: the bible in English is inaccurate.... since they actually spoke Aramaic. So that would make the King James, NIV, Message, NAS, Amplified, and all other bible versions  outside of Aramaic, Greek or Hebrew inaccurate. They have been translated how many times? And by whom? Yes that's right, by "man" whom is imperfect. The Greek and Hebrew are the only languages that are the traditional language of the bible from the time of Jesus and the disciples since no one is really running around speaking Aramaic anymore. Need I remind these same naysayers the pharasies said many things along those same lines about Jesus because they were worshipping their "words and traditions" and not seeing with their eyes of faith or their spirits. Not only missing out on but killing Jesus because it was not word for word what they had in their minds. A sad yet familiar pattern with Religion. People can forget Jesus came for us to have a "relationship" with him not a Religion.

So say what you will but the fact that Jesus and the message of salvation through him with a modern perspective is on the big screen is far more important than "Super Christians" sitting around pointing fingers from lofty places. That does not win souls for the kingdom - Shame on anyone who would try to stop that message from reaching people.

I loved the film. I left there feeling my heart very filled with love for Jesus and what he did for all of humanity. So in my opinion I think they did their job well, thumbs up... in my humble greek girl opinion that is.

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

Beauty for Ashes

Is it possible that anything good can come from something so horrible?

There are a lot of things readers of my blog know about me from reading over the past few years, one of which I hope is that Greek Girl loves & adores animals.  There are very few things that upset me more than a helpless animal hurting.  Some people argue that they are just animals and they don’t really matter.  I have to argue (I’m Greek remember we invented arguing along with acting, politics and the Windex) that God made them therefore they matter.  They are His creations and the decision to abuse or walk by and ignore one who is clearly in need of help is an expression of your character and God sees everything we do.

I’ll be the first to admit many of my animal rescuing episodes have led to muckery.  What kind of muckery you might be wondering, well let’s see: rescuing a dog tied to a parking meter on Houston St. in NYC, chasing down and rescuing a dog on Hollywood Blvd. in LA for over three hours, rescuing a dog while on vacation in FL, etc., is it any surprise that I ended up having five dogs?  Until recently of course when my beloved Maltese “Itty Bitty” passed away of Congestive Heart Failure, so now we only have four.  Even with all the joy and heartbreak, it’s a muckery I wouldn’t change for anything in the world.  To have an animal who was hurting either from neglect, or abuse to have them in your care to see the change, to see them safe and loved it is something that would never trade.

So like most people when I heard about the horrifying situation with NFL Star Michael Vick back when it came out I was not only sad but also angry.  It’s been some time now, he paid fines and you know I'm all about forgiving people but really? Michael Vick took not just one life, the innocent life in this photo is just one of many lives.

It’s so upsetting that a person could easily jump to thinking something like: “Not only is he "not rotting in a jail cell" but he gets to continue to do what he loves play football, make obscene money and to add insult to injury own a dog. This is so wrong!  If anyone buys his clothing line they need to have their head examined.  What moronic investor would put up good money to fund such a venture?”

Well that is exactly what I was thinking until I learned that he is actually a “Born Again” Christian who apparently got saved after being arrested and pleading guilty to the charges.  In fact he is being mentored by Tony Dungy a well-known and outspoken Christian retired NFL coach for the Indianapolis Colts.  So it makes sense that he would call his clothing line “Redemption - V7”.

Since his salvation he has written a book titled “Finally Free”, started the clothing line called “Redemption” and is giving proceeds from both the book and clothing line to the Humane Society’s “Pets For Life” Program, and also to programs for Youth at Risk as well.  How much of the proceeds I am unaware, my hope is that it is most of the proceeds.

My first thought when hearing about him being able to return to playing football was here we go again.  This is just another example where we are promoting and rewarding "Mediocrity" in this country.

Be vulgar and obscene sell a bazillion records, abuse and torture animals and no worries you get a slap on the wrist and are back playing in the NFL in no time. People wonder what is wrong with society today…. Take a good look. Sad… very sad.  Michael Vick has over One Million "Likes" on Facebook? What exactly is it that people "like" ?

Then I had to stop and ask myself if I had done something like that wouldn’t I too want a chance to be forgiven?  If his heart is truly changed and if he wants to try to stop animal abuse and raise money to help animals, why shouldn’t he be allowed to play again?  It’s definitely a situation that makes you stop and think.  As an animal lover I can be very quick to turn my heart off to anyone who has done such despicable things, yet as a Christian I am called by my creator to not only forgive him but also to hope he succeeds.  So that he may in turn be able to make a larger impact.  Not only to demonstrate the grace and goodness of God, but also to illustrate to people that it is wrong to do those things to animals.  God willing maybe even make a dent in the horrible Dog Fighting epidemic in this country.

Honestly I am torn because I see the photos, my heart breaks and I am enraged.  Then I think of the funds that can be raised by him being able to continue to play, selling clothes and books.  Which can enable helping abused and neglected animals and youth and then my heart softens.  One could also argue he is just using Christianity as a front to garner sympathy so he can sell a lot of merchandise and continue to live the lifestyle in which he was accustomed.  No one but Michael Vick knows what is in his heart.

In no way shape or form do I condone what he did, or what happened to his animals.  To be honest if I ever ran into him I'm quite sure I would not be able to stop myself from giving him an unfiltered piece of my mind via my Big Fat Greek Yap trap.

However, I for one am hoping it is a true heart change and that in this horrible, awful situation there truly can be beauty for ashes.  That something good can come from so much bad.

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava :D xo
www.avaaston.com

The Final Countdown

Last Day to PLEDGE to "Operation Mustard Seed"!

The Deadline on “Operation Mustard Seed” is FAST approaching. 

If you're a regular reader of my blog you almost definitely know all about Operation Mustard Seed.  However for anyone new to the Greek Girl blog, let me bring you up to speed.  People have been asking for more music, so after a life-changing event, much prayer and reflection I've decided to turn my dream over to God Focusing on making my 1st Faith-Based Contemporary Christian Music Album!  

So my husband Keith (my hero who makes my website, music videos, and pretty much everything you see of Greek Girl besides the music) and I put together a crowd funding campaign on fundanything.com to raise the funds to do the recording through selling Advanced Copies of the New Album & other creative rewards in return for people pledging. I would be honored to have your involvement & support on this journey!

There are many Pledge Options, and all pledges over $5 come with cool REWARDS including Music, Art & More! I believe with all of my heart that my Music & Message have made a Positive Impact.

So, if you're like me and think the world could use a little less #twerking, Auto-Tune & Shock & Awe in Music and more "Music" in the Music Industry that Means Something…. I'm asking YOU to join in helping to make this NEW Album. 

Time is Running Out! ENDS This FRIDAY DEC. 13th!

Please watch the video, I would be honored to have your support and appreciate your time, resources, and sharing the link with friends, family & social media!  Have a Great Day!

PLEDGE Here:

https://fundanything.com/en/campaigns/operation-mustard-seed?col=-29526

Blessings ~
Ava :D
www.avaaston.com