No Truce Was the Decision of Hamas

So, why is Israel continuing to receive so much credit for this most recent conflict? As the date for the end of the truce was approaching, Hamas said they would not extend it, and their rockets began to fill the air, immediately. Israel is responding. Israel did not fire the first shot! The Middle East has been in turmoil since there was a Middle East. Gaza has been a mess since George W. Bush decided to override G~D's boundary description and talked Ariel Sharon into land for peace. Apparently Ariel Sharon and George W. Bush were the only two people on the planet that really thought that was a viable option. Has there ever been peace in the Middle East? Gaza is land that was given, and where's the peace, even there? Now, clearly, the Roadmap to Peace is as failed as any other part of the Bush Doctrine. The problem here is, Sharon is still in a coma and although George W. Bush is conscious he's leaving office in less than a month, and Olmert, is also leaving in a couple of months. That means, the only consistent party represented in this whole mess is Hamas, who was a recognized terrorist organizaton before President Bush made them a political party with his "free election" goofiness! Not to belabor this point, again, but the politicians keep missing this point. Every time we want to deal with a nation representing the interests of the Arabs, we call upon Egypt to negotiate . . . Good idea, since the Sinai Peninsula was also one of those land for peace deals, and what happened to that? The Palestinians have split up and gained double the bargaining power. Why? Why can no one see that if the Palestinians can't agree upon what they want, the list of demands will be endless? If, in fact, the Arab nations wanted the Palestinians to have land and be a people, the Sinai Peninsula would have been a wonderful idea, as would the Golan Heights or any of the rest of the land that has already been negotiated for peace. The land is gone and there is no peace. A soldier named Shalit has been kept for over two years as a negotiation "piece" for the Palestinians. They want hundreds of prisoners released in exchange for his release, and there is no known evidence that he is alive and well, not to mention, he has not broken the law, only guilty of serving his country . . . The same country that continues to concede land and prisoners in hopes of his safe return and peace. Now, I'm going to offer this. If Israel were doing things according to G~D's plan, there would be no negotiations, no land deals, and no success against them, but Israel is not. The Six Day War is proof, Israel could have the blessing and victory of G~D, but they've rejected it. The Arabs think they can demand it, and the Americans think they can authorize it. Well, everybody's wrong! There won't be peace in the Middle East until there is holiness in Jerusalem. Having been there, I know these three facts regarding negotiated peace or power brokered peace for the Middle East. If Islam were about peace and holiness, the presence of the AlAqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount would be enough, but it isn't. If Christianity had the power of the Holy Spirit, their presence in Jerusalem would be enough, but it isn't. If Judaism were truly complete, the re-establishment of Israel would have the blessing and peace of G~D, but it doesn't. Until G~D establishes HIS Peace Plan on earth, there will be no peace in the Middle East. As I mentioned, all three major religions have a significant presence in Jerusalem; Jerusalem is already divided, and the battle continues to rage and the politicians continue to stage . . .
Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set My sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore. My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their G~D, and they shall be My people. a Prophet of Holy Scripture

The Colloquial Charm of Rude Americans

I think I have finally happened on to a bit of truth that has eluded me for years. We've tended as a nation to be somewhat offended that other countries consider Americans to be rude. I think we Americans have chosen to use the term, stress, to explain our own American reaction to rude Americans! I think rudeness in close proximity accounts for the high level of stress, and the holidays exemplify my point. The holidays are stressful because we go out of our way to surround ourselves with people we wouldn't ordinarily choose to spend a great deal of time with, for what becomes obvious reasons, once we are all gathered. And then there are the office parties, etc. in which we must stress just a bit over whether or not the last round of gossip will be broadcast by someone that enjoys just a bit too much festive imbibing. There are then the quality discussions that possess just a bit more emotion and passion than other times of the year because our society is inundated with pictures and movies and advertisements of what "should transpire" in holiday celebration. Well, for the most part, we've all tried so much for so long, we've only managed to take the FUN out of dysFUNction. Americans are for the most part, rude. And if they are being polite, it's probably because they are gathering their info for the next conversation they'll be having with someone else. My husband and I celebrate Hanukkah and on December 25, Messiah's birthday. Christmas trees and Santa are not part of our celebration and since my daughter has held me to account for anything she deems dishonest from her childhood, I refuse to participate in lying to my grandchildren. But like most grandparents, I'll tolerate just about anything to spend a little time with the grandkids. And you know in your heart of hearts, you cherish that time with them, because they are going to grow up and become adults, in which they will play into the stressed and stressful game we call family life . . . Besides, our family each has their own personal secrets and circumstances that are simply not the business of other family members, you know, like siblings and offspring, so we don't go in for the big generational family gatherings, much less aunts, uncles, and cousins from out of town! We did that for my Grandma's 90th birthday and about an hour was plenty of quality family time. We all exchanged the usual chit chat, "how's it going," "my your kids/grandkids have really grown" and then take tons of pictures so we all have a record of having gathered in the same location in this century and go on with life. I asked my uncle how he'd been, he answered, we had a moment of awkward silence, then I said, "well, good to see you." He asked me if that's it? . . . see each other every 20 years and make two minutes of small talk? I said, "Yes, I think that's it!" It's absolutely amazing how many traits must be genetic when you watch a herd of humans that are blood related without being lifestyle connected and conveniently, geographically located. We live over 200 miles from any of the family that is speaking to us and I am apparently the hostess with the leastest. The last time my mom was here, she sat in their truck for several hours reading, snoozing, and listening to the radio. Our daughter came as close to dark as possible on a Friday and planned to leave on Sunday and spent her time here, text messaging. So, since our family all gathered for Grandma's big birthday, there was really no need to do that for Jesus's. Now that we've all survived another year of celebrating stress, I thought about doing some introspection and soul searching as to making some personal social improvements. Although, I think I'm just a rude enough American, to enjoy the fact, I'm not popular!
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Excuse me, What or Whom Are We Celebrating?

I try to maintain a pretty good attitude, most of the time, but this particular time of year, this particular year has just been annoying. I'm tired of listening to Christians complain about a secularized Christmas. If Christians don't want it secularized, stop all the shopping and Santa stuff. Santa is nothing more than the socially acceptable way to torture children, by having them sit on a stranger's lap for the camera, after you've repeated the mantra "stranger danger!" And, oh let's not forget the priceless lesson of teaching them that it's okay to lie, if there's a good reason and you're a grown-up! And quit finding religious legends for candy canes and Christmas trees for the rest of us to endure. If you want a religious holiday, set the standard, but quit your complaining that the rest of us are messing up your holiday. You sound like a bunch of Scrooges!
I read something the other day about a big Christmas celebration in Baghdad. I quote from the linked article:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/12/21/iraq.christmas/index.html
"Even before I can ask Interior Ministry spokesman Major-General Abdul Karim Khalaf a question, he greets me with a big smile. "All Iraqis are Christian today!" he says."
And yet, since the American invasion of Iraq, the Christian population has declined by 2/3. In 2003, although the Christian population claimed repression under Saddam Hussein, it was about 1 and 1/2 million strong. Now, in 2008, the Christians number, roughly a half million, and few can get into the US for refuge. They are now fleeing Iraq and having to go to other Muslim countries. Shouldn't we in America be offering refuge, especially to those of "the household of faith?"
One more article really bothered me this past week and I realize this is not the general Christian attitude, but I don't understand why this particular thing would be happening, especially this time of year. I have included the link, for this article, as well. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,469928,00.html
A woman was attending a Florida church, got involved with a guy that didn't go to church, got too involved with him and then did the unthinkable . . . She told a church lady! The church lady of course told her to end the relationship, then when she didn't, took her before the group of church ladies to be admonished. She said she'd stop attending the church. Now, that wasn't good enough for Pastor Christmas. That's right, the Pastor of Grace Community Church is the Rev. T. Scott Christmas. Is this not just priceless? Now, she stops attending and then receives a "Merry Christmas, Peace on Earth Goodwill to Men" letter, informing her that if she doesn't break up with this guy, she will be publicly humiliated on January 4. I never read whether she would be forced to attend this public humiliation, be given a scarlet letter or perhaps a simple "stoning." Pastor Christmas says he is going to do this and he claims to be Scripturally justified. Did I mention her children continue to attend? She's already out of his congregation, she's not attending. Just how much control over the world does this guy think he needs?
I don't have a Christmas tree, I'm not shopping at the malls, and Santa isn't coming to my house, but I do very firmly believe in Messiah, and in this statement from what Christians call the Christmas Story in Luke 2.
Glory to G~D in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2: 14

Well Somebody's Making Money!

Now, let me think. What do we call it when there is a recession, fear of a depression, job losses, hunger, and factories closing, while the legislators accept their cost of living raise? American Democracy, yeah, that's what it's called, you betcha!
Some of the members of Congress have voiced their disapproval of acceptance at a time like this and a few have made magnanimous statements in behalf of the money being given to the elderly. Well, they're getting a raise, too in January. It says the average person on Social Security will only be receiving a little over $1150.00 a month. You know, one person living alone, and usually with their home and car paid for, that's really just not too bad. If Congress is going to vocalize concern, what about all the homeless families from foreclosures and what about all the working people that will not have any paycheck when January arrives, much less a cost of living increase? What about all that? We have way too many people receiving money for doing absolutely nothing and that's what's gotten us where we are. This is not an industrialized nation, any longer. We have professional politicians, professional students, healthy people collecting disability, and everyone feeling they are entitled to collect "what they paid in" longer than they even worked for a living, much less the percentage that was paid in. Congress is nothing more than puppet theatre. Social Security is a pyramid scheme in the core of socialism, but you won't get a retired republican to listen to that! Medicare and Medicaid have simply turned all the health care into county and state facilities. And let us not forget, Congress has their own medical and retirement plan. They can talk about how much more the seniors deserve, but Congress is the one with the legislative power, and so far that's being used to insure that members of Congress don't have to live with their own decisions. I just know, in my heart, Congress is doing such a bad job, so "we the people" will want just a two branch government system. The House is a mess and a major percentage of the Senate is moving to Obama's Cabinet. I think we've all seen the e-mail that's mentioned If Con and Pro are opposites by definition, then it would follow, Congress is the opposite of Progress. What if true representation were as real as taxation? Maybe it's time that all those in Washington remember that they are servants of the people, not our masters. Maybe it's time that America actually got back to producing something besides politicians, recipients, and debt; and allow those that are actually producing to be represented.
He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

Now Just Who Is Answering to Whom?

Can you believe it? $350B in TARP to banks, and when questioned, they are responding with outrageous answers, like we're not going to discuss that information, we can't really talk about that, or my favorite, we haven't really tracked that information. Now, these are banks that already have made money twice off of bad investments, once by extracting interest that left the entire principle still to be paid, then upon foreclosure, the government basically handed them a blank check at the taxpayers expense. Oh, I know, there were amounts written on the checks, a limit, but with no requirements as to what they did with the money, how it would be spent, or obviously no reason to give an account. I find this just price less after what the Big Three got put through, but then this is America, we don't actually make anything anymore, except rich bankers, and unaccountable politicians. Now, there we have an abundance of product! So top bankers have been given enormous paychecks and bonuses after having done such a poor job, the banks were begging for loans from the Middle Class . . . and got it! I can tell you right now, why the banks were failing if they don't track the money that they are entrusted to manage. It's going to be just like water through their fingers, and it apparently was. Will they get the remaining $350B, since this is already gone, what in less than two months? I think bankers must be interesting individuals. While they are crying poor mouth, they are living large, and obviously willing to take anything they can, from those with fewer options! Could any of us have gotten a bank loan without answering a banker's questions? We went to withdraw a tidy sum of money from one of our money market accounts and the bank officer wanted to know what we were going to do with it . . . and it was OUR money!!!
I've had some personal dealings with the banking folk. They do expect to be in everybody else's business and they will get pretty demanding if they do not get the answers and action they expect, but they can turn around and be completely unaccountable, give information known to be false and just blankly stare at anyone listening, without batting an eye. The bankers make the car dealers look pretty scrupulous!
So, now that we understand the conscience of those in the banking industry, I'm more than a little sad that the government has given our money to them and the bankers answer to no one. Our government is providing for the banks, using our money, and the banks are unaccountable. How long should that particular attitude of non-accountability and method of business be financed? The banks are now more powerful than the government and a bank employee once told me, banks don't make mistakes. Well, maybe banks calculate very well and don't make mistakes, maybe this was their goal all along, but it would appear those choosing to deal with some of these banks and bankers have made a huge mistake!
He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The President Invests in Detroit

Although I was not happy with the treatment the Big Three received from Congress, after the bankers were given billions of taxpayer dollars to retire and party on, I do think Detroit is about to become a ghost town. I don't agree with President Bush's auto bail for several reasons, but the top two are simple. First, this is only a band-aid until the next administration is holding the bag. The second reason is simply sad. A band-aid is useless when life support is what's required. The Big Three are already nearly buried in their own product. People have not been buying vehicles because unemployment is up, loan opportunities are down, and gasoline has been outrageous. We can't afford the vehicles that are already assembled, so the American auto industry, for all practical purposes has already died. This loan is to keep the Big Three on life support for the retirees and the other businesses that are dependent upon the auto industry. If there are no workers, then there is no withholding to fund the medical expenses of those already on pensions. Building automobiles is really not the issue on this BailOut, well actually, for the automakers, it's only a loan, and it comes due quickly. By March, the Big Three have to prove themselves viable, or the loan is due in 30 days. We already know there are more 2009 models already made than we need, and we already know, with all the assistance the banks have been given, they aren't interested in making loans. So, when the new models hit the showrooms and nothing moved, then the recession was officially announced and spending got even tighter, now it's the holiday season and people are truly frightened. There are no automobile sales happening. And in case everyone forgot, January and February have always been slow months in the auto sales business. There's no opportunity for viability of the Big Three between now and March. We the people know that, the Big Three know that, and the President should know that!
I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth. Holy Scripture

Is Rick Warren, the next Billy Graham?

I'm guessing we are hearing about the "next pastor to the nation and to the presidents." Rick Warren has all the right stuff! He's ecumenically moderate, just like Billy Graham. He is highly marketable and draws a large crowd, just like Billy Graham. He is well spoken and writes books that draw purchases, just like Billy Graham. His messages and his service style is "user-friendly" and raises little controversy, really . . . just like Billy Graham and just exactly unlike the prophets of Scripture and apostles of Messiah. I'm sure Rick Warren makes a number of people feel good and find hope in the midst of a mess. I remember attending a Billy Graham "crusade" in the 60's. It was highly emotional and felt "good." I remember, in the 90's, attending behind the scenes for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and it was highly orchestrated and embarrassing. Granted, Billy was no longer personally leading the cause, but supposedly his organization still sanctioned the event.
I guess, all I can say is this. If Rick Warren plans to spend the next fifty years the way Billy spent the last fifty years, I'm not sure America's society will survive another fifty years of an ecumenical gospel. From the looks of things, it's been pretty powerless, so far. As to Rick Warren being the next Billy Graham, I think the most significant trait the two have in common would be this: they both have preached an emotional "gospel" of goodness without the need to repent!
And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations . . . the Gospel according to Luke

Let's Talk Peterson Men, Shall We?

I see that retired police officer Peterson is engaged to wife number 5, and the divorce or whatever from wife number 4 is either still pending or unanswered, whereas fertilizer salesman Peterson sits on death row. I have a real issue with this entire situation and frankly, I think it's a test to see just what the public will accept in the way of propaganda, and I think it's reprehensible.
I awoke in the morning of December 25, 2002 to the news that a pregnant woman in California was missing and . . . I told my husband then, that I thought this was some sort of propaganda, in that any adult had to be missing for at least 48 hours to be considered a missing person, much less make national news! Of course, as the headlines continued through the winter and early spring, I could see a media frenzy and a political power play to make this a capital case without any true evidence, and I was not wrong. President Bush signed into law with Laci's mother as a witness, something to the effect that Scott was to be railroaded by laws after the fact, and sure enough, he was. Granted, Scott Peterson was no saint, but did he kill his wife? I truly don't think so. I worked as a funeral director for a number of years and in working with the coroner's office, we recovered bodies that had been in the water for some time. I truthfully do not believe for a second that the bodies that were found in April of '03 were placed in the water in December of '02, with one contained in the other. I simply do not believe, if there was a pregnant body cast into the sea in December of '02 that the remains, remained for 4 months. Way too many hungry critters in the ocean in the winter . . .
Now, let's talk about Drew Peterson, who will never even worry about a serious offense, much less death row, because he was a cop. He, like Scott, was unfaithful, although unlike Scott, Drew has a history of this. Drew, according to the timeline I can figure, met all of his wives while still married to the last one, except his second wife. The information indicates she met him as a single man and divorced him as a delusional man, but he already had a girl-friend, which just happened to be, or become his next wife! She's dead in a bathtub in 2004, divorce pending, no signs of drowning, no signs of water, but she's dead, none the less and it's ruled; accidental. Really! Now, Stacy, the wife that was the girl-friend when the last wife died is missing and Drew is still out, enjoying a social life while the grand jury apparently scratches their behinds and picks their noses. Not only is Drew enjoying a social life, he's engaged, according to FOXNews.
I just can't help but wonder what gives, other than one sold fertilizer and one was a cop, and the one that was a cop was older and more shall we say experienced . . .
I think Scott Peterson was railroaded and scorned by a rejected strumpet, that has cost him his freedom and may cost his life. I think Laci found out about his affair, stormed out, and who knows . . . what happened that night.
Drew, on the other hand, knows how to make a crime scene appear and also is well connected.
Could it be, that a fertilizer salesman simply was stupid and unfaithful and a cop, on the other hand, has figured out, just what the system looks for. I think so. I also think Scott Peterson was the one point this present administration took to make regarding unborn life. In six years of a 7 of 9 conservative appointments on the Supreme Court, a Republican majority in the House and Senate, and a republican White House, nothing has been done to stop abortion, but another man is on death row, supposedly for the pro-life cause.
Now, in Illinois, Land of Lincoln, and home to Chicago politics, a questionable cop gets to go on about his life and who knows, maybe become "abandoned or widowed," again . . . Maybe Drew could date Scott's "old girl-friend" Amber Frey. But then perhaps she's too old for Drew,, over 30, by now, but she doesn't seem to mind dating married men that she describes as "widowers."
As a woman, I can most assuredly state, I would feel much safer with Scott Peterson, than Drew Peterson!
But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.

What Does Another Interest Reduction Really Mean?

I'm no financial expert, but it would appear, those in charge, are not either. Now that banks have decided to not lend money to everyone that walks through the door, and not give credit cards to every person that wants to be in debt, the Feds drop the interest rate to 0%-0.25%. This is the tenth significant drop in just a little over a year, but keep in mind, according to our leaders, the economy was strong in July!!! Now that the truth is out, it is simply casual information to refer to the recession that began last December. So, basically we have three factors to consider. One, the government and the banks are pretty sure, we the people, do not know diddly-squat! That's right, they think we only know what "they" tell us. So, for months and months, they told us every things was fine and strong as we shook our heads and clambered for some sort of financial stability. When it finally became apparent that we were onto the real deal, they admitted the problem and dropped the gasoline prices. What a bonus in the deal. Thousands of Americans have no place to live, their vehicles have been repossessed, but hey, gasoline is cheaper than it's been in 5 years. Second, we are now being encouraged to spend. In case we haven't noticed, we are a nation of consumers and perpetual motion is the basis for our economy, so if people don't spend, our economy will completely collapse, if it hasn't already. That's something that just keeps resurfacing in the back of my mind. As "they" tell us all the tools they still have in their bag of tricks to avoid a severe financial collapse, I can't help but think it's already severe. And either this has come as a complete surprise to them, thus total incompetence, or it's just that much more smoke and mirrors to distract our attention from the inevitable; thus total deception. Either way, doesn't eliminate the fact that this is severe, as we are now reading headline comparisons to the 1930's. If it's taken them a year to admit a recession, how long will we be in a depression before "they" tell us? The third and final factor in this has really got me stumped. With the banks stiffening their lending qualifications and more people facing foreclosure, repossession, and unemployment, the only people that the reduced interest rate will truly affect, are those saving, or trying to. The banks aren't dealing with borrowers, and not making any money off of foreclosures and repossessions, so what happens when the savers, the money marketeers, and the CD holders quit doing business? Will that really strengthen the economy? When the person of average or middle income has no reason to deal with banks, which is where this is headed, what then?
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

A Good Word for a Great Product

I'm not going to give my perspective on any political happenings going on for now. I think I spend enough time and energy giving political comment, probably too much. Today, I want to give credit where credit is due. Last year, I ordered some books at Amazon.com and it was fantastic. They arrived sooner than expected, in great shape and no guesswork. I say in great shape, because the purchase I was making was no longer available new, I was buying used. By the way, Amazon.com, carries my books, as well. But this was an independent person selling used books through Amazon and I was amazed and impressed, and very, very satisfied. This year, I got a bit more adventuresome after dealing with a private nursery. I was looking for coffee trees. I'd read about people growing them as house plants and since we have a new greenhouse, I thought that sounded like a great addition. I ordered them from the private nursery, Gurney's. I was dumb, in that I didn't read all their rules before I made the purchase that included one item they chose to send right away and the rest will be in a few months, when they see fit. So, as you have probably guessed, the entire shipping charge went on the small inexpensive item that they sent immediately, and they will ship my coffee trees, in the "proper planting season" . . . I live in Missouri, I had no idea there was a proper planting season for coffee trees, here! I exchanged a few e-mails to no avail, and they offered to let me cancel my order. Well, as I already mentioned, the shipping on the entire order has already been paid. . . They are pretty smart on that deal and it makes sense, since this order is a one time deal. There won't be another. My husband reminded me, through all this, that we got burnt with them a few years back by mail order. Anyway, back to Amazon. When I realized Gurney's was going to be making the decision for my horticulture endeavors, I did a Google Search for coffee trees. Amazon.com came up. I checked it out and a nursery called Hirt's Gardens, Inc. has their products available through Amazon. I placed the order, and it was a better price, I might add. Within days, my shipment arrived in beautiful condition. I now have lovely little coffee trees all potted and planted and ready for the event for which they were purchased. I recommend Hirt's Gardens for your gardening needs.
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Learning from History

This is going to be a short and to the point, blog. The Democratic House that voted to give the Big Three the billions dollar bail out is the same Democratic House that blustered and blustered about the Iraq War and no blank checks and rubber stamped them anyway for the President these past nearly 2 years. And this is the same Democratic House that designated $700B for the banks to play with, and this Democratic House is sticking to party preferences in that unfortunately Democrats are always quite free and generous with the taxpayer's money. History repeats itself repeatedly with a Democratic House. Now that the Republican Senate has refused this bailout, we can also see that, although this same group of Senators more than graciously gave their banking buddies $700B, and has had no trouble financing wars, is not about to part with the small crumb the Big Three were begging for. But I have to give this Republican Senate group the credit for seeing a good or bad investment. They know, the banks will "bring a return." And they know waging war is power, but the Big Three does not look like a sound investment at this time, and then of course, there is the Republican victory, in that the last powerful union will collapse under the failure of the Big Three. History looks to be repetitive here at the Senate, as well. I don't know why the general public has said they wouldn't buy a vehicle from a bankrupt company, they don't mind flying on reorganizing bankrupt airlines! Now, Big Three, hear this. The President is talking about bailing you out. Let me tell you this, we need to consider history, one more time. Our current President has a history of investing in entities that don't exactly have a bright and profitable future. Consider his oil company in the 80's, consider the national debt in the past 8 years. Our President doesn't exactly have the Midas touch. Might want to consider, Big Three, Congress hasn't veered from history, the Senate isn't veering on their stand, and I'm guessing the Third Strike, even if you get the money, will be from the man that invests in failing companies. It looks like this history lesson is indicating, with or without the money, the Big Three are about to be history.
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Come On, Now, Joe!

Well Joe the Plumber has written a book and apparently he'd like to make enough money to never have to consider welfare again. He's giving interviews and frankly, the more he says, the more I find that he doesn't speak for me, and if he represents "average America," we are in trouble! He mentioned how he felt about John McCain, and actually used the word, hypocrite, in his commentary. He also said how "dirty" he felt knowing how McCain was voting in the Senate. Well, Mr. Joe the Plumber, let's reassess the use of that word, hypocrite. It would seem a mirror would be a good place to start, or maybe he truly doesn't get it. Perhaps Joe the Plumber doesn't realize he was merely the caricature in the flesh of Sarah Palin's "Joe Sixpack!"
Here is the link and the short article I read at Fox, and nobody can say Fox would make Joe look bad.

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/elections/2008/12/09/report-joe-plumber-says-mccain-appalled/
'Joe the Plumber' told conservative radio host Glenn Beck on Tuesday that he felt "dirty" after hitting the campaign trail with Republican presidential nominee John McCain and "seeing some of the things that take place," Politico reported.

Joe Wurzelbacher said he was specifically put off by McCain when it came to talk of the $700 billion bailout.

"When I was on the bus with him, I asked him a lot of questions about the bailout because most Americans did not want that to happen," Wurzelbacher told Beck. "I asked him some pretty direct questions. Some of the answers you guys are gonna receive they appalled me, absolutely. I was angry. In fact, I wanted to get off the bus after I talked to him." . . . but he didn't!
Wurzelbacher said he stayed on the trail with McCain "honestly, because the thought of Barack Obama as president scares me even more."
Wurzelbacher, however, offered kind words to McCain running mate Alaska Governor Sarah Palin.
"Sarah Palin is absolutely the real deal," he said.

So, Joe the P, the every day man on the street that campaigned for John McCain says John is a hypocrite, and we've read that Sarah Palin has turned on just about every republican she's every worked with and Joe the Plumber didn't get out of the vehicle when he felt "dirty" and when he sensed the hypocrisy . . .
Seems Joe the Plumber will sell his soul for a moment of fame and to sit by the hot chick!
That the hypocrite reign not, lest the people be ensnared. Holy Scripture

Happy Holidays ?

This year marks a particularly strange time in American history. I don't think there is anyone still alive that hasn't bought into some belief of entitlement from the US Government and I don't think there are too many people that aren't affected or related to someone affected by the slowing job market. Is there anyone that isn't affected by tomorrow's value of today's investment? If you haven't noticed an increase in prices, you've not been to the store in quite some time. With all these reasons for "merriment," I've simply been underwhelmed at the concerns and solutions of this year's Yule Tide Season. First, we have the atheists wanting to make their statement about the holidays, and truth be told, there are more Christmas traditions from pagan beliefs than the Bible . . . like all of them. So, the atheists want the Winter Solstice back without religion. The Christians want everyone to think Jesus is the Reason for the Season, as they spend money and tell their kids to be good, for Santa to come. Then of course, there is Hanukkah, and the concern of where to include a Menorah in the politically correct festivities. I read something today that I found sad. The source for the article I was reading stated stealing a Menorah is considered anti-Semitic, but stealing a baby Jesus is a prank. I, personally, think stealing is anti-social for all people and beliefs. Well, I found the latest solution for this concern. That's right, for outdoor Nativity Scenes or the Creche' as they are now called, a GPS transmitter in the baby Jesus. Since 3 letter initials have become my pet peeve, I had to stop and think this deal through. If Jesus is the Reason for the Season, and Christians truly believe this is G~D's holiday to celebrate, wouldn't HE be watching over all the baby Jesuses? I wonder what G~D thinks of being replaced by GPS? And if Santa knows who has been naughty and nice, why can't he find these baby Jesus thieves? I just don't understand why this holiday must continue to "save" the consumerism and be a point of contention amidst varying belief systems. Do the Christians really believe the lack of enthusiasm for Christmas is persecution? Do the Jews truly believe vandalism is always anti-Semitic? I'm guessing some people that have stolen a Menorah don't know a Menorah from any other holiday decoration. And as for the atheists, since I do believe in G~D, I am more than willing to let them have their Winter Solstice celebration and I don't care to listen to them whine about everyone else's celebrations. For those of us that don't celebrate the Winter Solstice in it's various religious and non religious forms, do we have to have UN-Happy Holidays? Does the Winter Solstice celebration actually include griping about the other celebrations? What a tradition that must be! We could simply try being generous and maybe even a bit kinder this time of year, and here's a crazy idea . . . we could try avoiding the points of contention.
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. New Testament

O. J.'s Expression

It seems so many people are sporting the same expression O.J. had as the judge read his sentence. Now, I don't think everyone is looking at jail time, but it's more that expression of "this can't be happening" and "this isn't looking good." I have found this expression transcends most economic levels and social stratus and appears to simply be the expression of a bleak and dismal future. Of course the republicans are already pointing out what is going wrong now that Obama has been elected. I've had to gently remind several people, that he's not actually in office making any of these dismal decisions . . . yet! And then there are the democrats that are already sensing his backtracking and they aren't so sure this is the change they voted for. Then there is everything from Wall Street to Mutual Funds to 401Ks to CDs and Money Markets, all losing value, virtually daily. I heard that the government was recommending treasury bonds for safe investments. Really??? I suppose the government would want investors in government bonds, as the printing press at the mint is cranking out Franklins and IOUs faster than any of us can blink!
It seems, and I am not minimizing the prospect of prison, but the truth is, O.J. has a more secure future than many Americans. There are advocacy groups and legal watch dogs that prevent him from going hungry or being out in the cold, while in prison. So many people that have worked and saved are now facing the possibilities of a very bleak and uncertain future. Where do we invest? Where is the bottom of this mess? Why is our nation bailing out the rich companies and leaving the former middle class to go unemployed and homeless? Why is it, that here in America, O.J. Simpson, heading to prison, has more security in a roof over his head and 3 meals a day than many Americans?
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. New Testament

Performance Evaluation

I find it interesting that Chris Dodd has called for the resignation or termination of the CEO of GM and designated him to be ineligible to continue leading the company, if any sort of bail out is to be received. And don't you just love it, Congress will impose a "CAR CZAR." I guess the media representing the powers that be think these catchy little phrases will divert the attention of the general population. America is steadily and swiftly moving toward fascism and socialism. While the Republicans holler and sputter about the alleged incoming "socialist," let me share the WordWeb definition of Socialism, even before Pres-elect is inaugurated. Socialism: 1. A political theory advocating state ownership of industry. 2. An economic system based on state ownership of capital. I believe that pretty much covers government run banks and manufacturing, which has been brought to us by the current administration. Let me also share the definition of fascism. Fascism: A political theory advocating an authoritarian hierarchical government. Which would describe all the new uses of the word "czar" and assistance to various posts and bureaucratic departments. I hadn't really realized that our government has managed to become the worst of both, practically overnight. Oh, I know, if you're a republican, it's been brewing since the Carter days and if you're a democrat, Nixon started this mess. What I'm thinking is, we are simply getting the result of our own greed. Both parties represent a certain percentage of the population, or they are simply puppets for a bigger power, then we the people have either voted for it or gone along with it for nearly 40 years, and actually historically, much longer than that.
Back to Chris Dodd. I think he's quite a deal. He's been on Capitol Hill since the mid 70's, about the same period of time Rick Wagoner has been with GM, and worked his way up to CEO. General Motors has not had all bad years since the 70's, although the Reagan years did hinder every union job, they hung on and produced a few motor-trend cars of the year. What has Congress done, either the House or the Senate in Senator Dodd's long standing political career? He is Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, and look what all has happened on his watch. I haven't heard him require the same of any Banking CEOs that he's spelled out for GM, but then I'm sure he has folks in banking and insurance "counting on him." In the grand scheme of this, and I do mean scheme, has Rick Wagoner really done a worse job than Chris Dodd?
But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare . . . New Testament

Dear Big Three

Please stop groveling. The whole country is watching and frankly, it should just be beneath you. You CEOs ought to be smarter than this. Did you see AIG or Morgan Chase have to jump through all these hoops? NO! And some of those folks took the money and headed for vacations and retreats, more than once. This government of ours is having you jump and telling you it's not high enough. You CEOs are driving to Washington from Michigan and the union is willing to give up nearly everything to maintain the factory. CEOs have promised to work for a dollar and the union will just about pay to keep their jobs! See what the powers are doing to you? Al Gore gets to ride around in his Escalade and a private jet to accept awards about conserving energy . . . AIG has partied hearty on the tax payers bail out! Congress isn't taking any cuts in pay. The banks all have more money and have now decided to stiffen their loan regulations, so that translates to being paid twice. They collected from the borrower while they could, then they foreclosed and our government paid them to do so. Don't you see, Big Three, you are out of the loop!!! As the powers that be, keep moving the hoop, there is something they haven't told you and I can't believe you haven't figured out. You, Big Three, are not part of the global plan! The Big Three were actually built by a spirit of entreprenurialism, not hook and crook! See, how you just won't fit into the present political agenda? And just a thought here . . . Don't you wish you had all that money that the lobbyists have used to deal with Congress in the past? You wouldn't even be needing to ask for a bailout, right! I read the lobby funding in the past has been substantial. And truthfully, what do you have to show for it, now?
I couldn't help but notice that the old AMC company has renamed itself and redesigned it's product. GM, I love my Cadi and have loved them for years, but in days gone by, when I had to be a bit more economical, I enjoyed my Javelin and just loved my AMC Spirit! AMC is now AM General and they are making HumVees with a military contract, and I read they are also selling these to other countries. Big Three, you have provided jobs for millions of Americans for over a century, but the time is coming to an end. There is an agenda that is bigger than the Big Three.
The Big Three has been the backbone of the American economy for years, but that time, unfortunately, has past. We are moving into a global economy. Accept it with your heads held high. Your time of contribution simply has expired in this new world agenda that was prophesied in the Revelation, and envisioned by Bush 41.
My advice, at this point. Don't do what the politicians have done, don't do what the insurance company has done, and don't do what the banking industry has done. Don't sell your souls . . . In the long run, it just isn't worth it!
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. words of Messiah

Intelligence

I'm still doing a bit of searching and listening as the Big 3 promise all sorts of things AIG and the banks didn't have to, and I think I'm developing a theory, as Nancy P. tells the CEOs what she expects. I, personally, would not feel safe in any vehicle designed by a company that is controlled by Congress. But this isn't our topic today.
I couldn't help but notice George W. Bush's statement regarding his regret of a war based upon faulty intelligence. I think it's odd, now that over 4,000 US soldiers have died, many more thousand disabled, we'll never know how many Iraqi citizens have been killed, and as a nation we deposed a sovereign government that was not an imminent threat to us, and all he can say is he regrets it! I get numerous e-mails every week from someone that is desperately trying to still justify this outrage that we have perpetrated in Iraq. I do support the troops and I wish they were home, and I truly think it's outrageous that more are being sent. Sooner or later, if these so called liberated Iraqis want their liberation, they need to take care of it. Of course, the people are simply now, answering to and fearing a new regime, the regime that wanted Saddam Hussein out of their way . . . Which just happens to be one of the sources of the so called faulty intelligence. Looks to me, if it truly was faulty information given to our leader, then he got played. He shot his mouth off and sent in his troops without a genuine purpose and without considering the cost. And now he says he regrets it. Well I have another observation. This so called faulty intelligence was discovered to be wrong in 2004, and yet the American occupiers led the new Iraqi leadership through some sort of kangaroo puppet court that resulted in the murder of the deposed leader. There was nearly a two year gap between uncovering the fact that we went in on false information and the death of Saddam Hussein. I'm certainly not defending his methods, but he was a descendant of Abraham, and a Christian leader ought to know what's involved in causing them problems, much less taking their life without provocation. Again, he now says he regrets taking action on faulty intelligence. In supporting the troops, I do not support this war. I think our young people are being sacrificed for egos and money and oil.
And so to all you people who are sending e-mails about how this war in Iraq is protecting our freedom, I have to tell you, you're wrong. Our president says we're there on "faulty intelligence!"
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of G~D. words of Messiah

A Legacy of Values

I read part of President Bush's comments regarding his legacy and his values as President. He said he didn't sell his soul and is leaving Washington with the same values he entered. I can't argue with that. It was those very values of his that prevented me from voting for him either time. Oh, I've been told I can buy his biography and read all about his life, his values, and his inspiration for change. Well, I can look around and see that people live what they actually believe. They make their decision based upon what they actually believe. I know, you can read a person's life and get the truth much easier than you can off the pages of a book. That's why even G~D put HIS Word in human form. And anyone that claims any values based on G~D needs to demonstrate those values in life and leadership, not book sales. Through these past eight years I've tried to give him the benefit of the doubt, which has ultimately always resulted in the same thought. I just don't think he's bright enough to have conceived all the diabolical destruction that has been brought on us and the world under his administration. And to be fair, even knowing, I'm sure, there are brains behind this outfit and he is simply the figurehead and puppet, our leaders and those behind them are not entirely to blame. We the people have been a party to this destruction and delusion, as well. After all, a President doesn't just land in the White House one day. Even though I honestly believe the elections are just a motion of formality and already decided before the ballots are cast, I do know our leaders embody the heart of the majority of the people at the time. He has certainly been no exception to that rule. The pundit following, the war-mongering are all confirmation that the American public really did want this sort of leadership for a time. So although he was appointed President in 2000, the popular vote was still indicative that half of the population shares his values and more than half of the Supreme Court. Now, with two relatively young appointments by George W., the Supreme Court will truly be a legacy of his values. So, the same values that once bought 1% of a ball team on borrowed money has led us into not one but two wars on borrowed money and unlike baseball, wars don't have an annual World Series to end the rivalry. These aimless values that never knew a poor day in his life, has led the American people into aimless, fiscal, oblivion. These same values that once owned an oil company that drilled dry holes has led an entire country in the same economic direction! I'm glad he feels that he didn't sell his soul in Washington. I don't know when he did sell it, but I do know there have been many, many souls that have lost body and limbs due to his sense of self-defined values that he holds in such esteem. He does still have followers that have remained faithful to him even through this horrifically poor judgment and have clambered after the new rising republican star. The one person that makes George W. Bush look like Mensa material is Sarah Palin. And so with the introduction of Sarah, the legacy of George W. Bush doesn't seem quite as void of cohesive thought. I will say this, regarding the self-valued legacy of George W. Bush. I believe only his Presidency could have brought Americans out to vote in the throngs and numbers of '08, as never before. I think only his Presidency could have brought America, in less than 50 years from the civil rights marches to the election of a black man for President. I think, only his Presidency, could have caused a man with the middle name of, Hussein, to be elected. I think only the Presidency of George W. Bush could have made the republican party sit down and say, we'd like to take a little break from our power quest.
It's been quite a presidency and he is leaving quite a legacy. I pray it's a powerful enough legacy that we, as a nation, never repeat these last eight years.
There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up. a Proverb of Holy Scripture