The Point Has Been Long Lost

For some time now, we've seen our local police go from "protect and serve" to "enforce and subdue" in many situations that have raised ire and question.  We've watched a number of high ranking military officials be "retired" early, and we have an administration that simply does what it wants, without question.  Doctors and social services have taken a number of parental rights, as has the public school system.   In all of the power grabbing of the past 50 years, yes 50, not just the last six or the previous 8, depending upon which side of the aisle you lean . . . We have allowed ourselves to be divided politically, religiously, racially, while not realizing "we" are all in the same boat.  We have been groomed to have a "Them and Us" mentality on nearly every level and sadly; to either fear or hate "them."

This truly is on every level in our country.  It used to only be politically obvious through the campaign season, but now the name calling and the "hating on" is relentless and is the ongoing focus of headlines, talk radio, and social media.  American politics tends to be divided by religious differences which are only fueled by every headline.

I find the latest racial division to be quite alarming on many levels.  The reality is, we did have a division between police and public long before Ferguson and it's been lost in the race baiting.  I still remember back in 2000, the chief of police explaining to me about the "blue line."  He was explaining to me how a chaplain serving without pay, would have to earn the trust of the force, blah, blah, blah . . .That's not saying every cop is bad, but if a middle aged lady preacher was suspect, obviously; most every cop sees the citizens as "them."  This was before 9/11.

Right and wrong are continuously being redefined by society.  Headlines are often misleading, only serving to stir the pot, which seems to be just below the boiling point, at a constant 210°.  We've lost the calm in our society and seem to simply exist between violence and crises.  The citizens, in general, are being systematically divided!  Racial and religious profiling is coming and sadly the line in the sand between the citizens will be drawn between friends and family.

I ran for a county office in 2000.  As it turns out, I was not well connected enough to win the election and the one who did win, later resigned in the shame of embezzlement . . . yet my own mother said she would not have voted for me, as I was not in "her party."  President Obama is certainly not helping the political, religious, or racial division, and he even seems to be intensifying it, but he didn't start it.  The path(s) toward division have been being entrenched in our society for years.  We are on the brink of social collapse and a political party is not the answer, a ruthless religion is not the solution, and division based upon the color of skin is an outrage!

We must stop looking at each other to affix blame and realize, we are being divided to be conquered . . .
The maxim divide et impera was attributed to Philip II of Macedon, and together with the maxim divide ut regnes were utilised by the Roman ruler Caesar and the French emperor Napoleon.

 It's going to get worse before it gets better.  When it comes down to it, skin color makes no difference, and our politics won't save us.  There is only one solution and is NOT the alternative solution to division!

Come now, let us reason together, says YHWH . . . Prophet of Holy Scripture

For a Cause

Have you noticed how many "causes" there are and the various recommendations of activities or "badges" to display our support of these causes?

The variety of ways to demonstrate support certainly run the gambit from sending money to throwing buckets of ice water, to wearing ribbons to marches, to going braless or growing a beard.  The last two are obviously gender exclusive, well somewhat . . .  Even in all the variety, however; the way to show support is modeled in uniformity, depending upon the cause.  It seems most every cause will accept monetary donations and volunteers, so that's a consistency amongst causes, but then the changes come.

photo by nbcnews

The ALS challenge involved being doused in ice water.  Fortunately that was through a warmer month.  I don't have the stats as to how much money was actually raised.  I certainly am clueless as to how much actually went to research or to assist those suffering from the disease, after administrative costs.


No Shave November is a fairly recent "cause," founded in 2009.  It's an online not for profit to raise cancer awareness and of course, funds.  In the beginning, the goal was to help cancer patients and their families in their struggle of treatments, etc.  In 2013 this organization partnered with The American Cancer Society, so the funds that are now raised are allocated according to the larger organization . . .  There is an underlying message in cancer treatment, however; against natural treatment.  If a person submits to surgery and chemo, but still dies, and they do . . . they did all they could.  If a person utilizes only natural remedies, and they live, it's barely documented, if at all, and if they die, natural cures are to blame.  Then there are those who try to utilize a complimentary plan between natural and mainstream medicine.  In the case of death, natural remedies are blamed.

October was breast cancer awareness month, and the pink ribbons were everywhere.  There is one day that is designated to go braless for this cause.  I don't participate in that, as it seems to sexualize a very serious problem, as well as centering around conventional treatment, which is no cure.  Cancer is a huge problem in this country, and I don't believe it has much to do with the various parts of anatomy that are attacked.  Fund raising for research, in my opinion, needs to be directed differently.  In all the years of The American Cancer Society fundraising and research still revolves around mainstream medicine and big pharma.  If as much time and energy were spent to actually address the underlying cause of this deadly disease and natural treatment options, I believe we'd see a cure.  Which brings me to the next cause.

The March Against Monsanto could be one of my "pet causes" if the official marches did not take place on Shabbat.  Monsanto isn't going away, anytime soon.  Between the Lobby and the Supreme Court, this business is well covered.  As genetic engineering continues to gain ground, the destruction of creation has become a runaway train.  We certainly don't read about any big operators being raided, just the organic homesteaders.  There is one basic component missing in the March Against Monsanto, however; in this cause.  Marching against Monsanto doesn't put good food on the table.  Returning to our "roots" as an agrarian society is what it's really going to take to defeat Monsanto and other companies like it.  As long as our dependency for food continues, the companies holding the control of the seeds will continue to grow.

There are different color ribbons for every cause, it seems.  To be honest, the ribbons bring to my mind; the colored stars and triangles of the pre-holocaust days of Nazi Germany.

The various ribbons are a way to identify those who for now, are choosing to be identified.  It seems the day is coming, when the choice will be removed and the identification, assigned.  Since being gay is now a point of pride and the religious seem to be arguing amongst themselves, I'm not sure who will be wearing the signs, ribbons and badges of shame, but I have a few ideas.  There are actually businesses to make "cause ribbons."

As causes continue to be spotlighted, I can't help but wonder which one will be the one that rallies the greatest support against the social nemesis.  Although we rally for various causes, AGAINST something, as the momentum against continues to gain ground, the social nemesis that will get the majority of this country walking in lockstep, will have to have a face.  There's too much money in cancer treatment for research to ever bring a cure.  There is too much power in controlling the food supply for Big Ag to go away quietly.  I can't help but notice in all these "ribbon causes" the rainbow ribbon is gaining notice and momentum.

Will this be a part of the bigger agenda to rally the majority?  In all these "causes" have we noticed?  Natural health advocates, homesteaders, and Christian businesses seem to be the faces of what is deemed unacceptable for our society.

 But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of YHWH thy Elohim, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:  Torah of Holy Scripture

Choices

I used to say, "I'm all about choice," until I found myself in a relationship with an individual who offers "no choice."  There are no words for the thoughts and feelings that slammed my brain like a tsunami, as that man would stand, half shrugging his shoulders, while saying, "What can I do?"  For some; choice seems to be just too much personal responsibility.  This has given me a great opportunity to think and observe what our society has lost because people no longer make choices, thus lack commitment.  It's as if we just go through life adding 10 or 20 percent of this or that to our already half full, half stacked wagon of baggage.  Relationships are based upon the acceptance of past baggage rather than building a future.  Of course, everyone has a past, but most folks now, drag it into their present.  I'm not talking about children from a previous relationship, most baggage draggers just use their kids as a cover to maintain control, or keep the drama stirred.   What I've noticed through a few generations now, of being all about choice, is the transition that has taken place, as each generation ricochets off the standard and example of the last one.  I still believe in choice, I'm just careful who I say it to!  My land radio show was entitled "Choose Life."

Some people take full responsibility for their choices, even for their not so responsible choices.  Many of the men of my father's generation made quite a comfortable living, acquired and amassed with a high school education, OJT, and determination toward their committed choices.  Regardless of how they came into adulthood, they made clear and concise choices to go forward, accomplish, acquire, and amass.  They made choices and they were committed to those choices.  When things didn't work out, they picked up the pieces and made the choice to rebuild.  Of course, there were exceptions, but that was the rule of the generation that arrived before WWII.  There are those who still make clear and concise choices and "pay the fiddler" as they go, but they are clearly no longer mainstream.  Our society no longer insists that anyone make clear choices, as a matter of fact, commitment to any long term choice usually now comes at a cost to the parents or society in general.

My generation, yes the boomers, we did a great deal to transition from the choice of lifelong commitment, to we'll see how this goes . . .  Our generation was the first to openly cohabitate, yet also caused the divorce rate to skyrocket.  Obviously that statistical equation has some unnamed variables!  For the most part, we had a little more education than high school and careers were extremely important, but we women followed the examples set years earlier by the "Rosie the Riveters" and made the choice to have it all.  Rosie the Riveters were married to men who were committed to them, feminists, unfortunately, were not!  Relationships failed and the men maintained their careers and their responsibilities, but most dragged their last relationship into the next relationship.  So, as men thought they could have a new start while still keeping an ex happy, the exes continued to dominate two households while moving on socially, and the new women determined careers and kids would come before men.   Although we may have grown up in secret dysfunction, the boomers openly made dysfunctional, the standard.  Choice was no longer applied to direction and building of acquiring and amassing, but rather to escape and "new" beginnings became mired with accumulated baggage.  Rather than making and sticking with a choice for life, choice became redefined to "finding ourselves."

While we boomers spent our twenties and part of our thirties, choosing to find ourselves, only to discover we weren't so thrilled with who we found ourselves to be, also discovered our kid's formative years were over.  In the starting over with accumulated baggage, our kids did seem to make one choice and that was to just start later . . . and of course, test the waters before even considering a commitment, if at all.  So many programs were afforded to single mothers going to school and live in boyfriends no longer interfered with state "benefits."  Marriage would only rob a young woman of assistance and a young man of, well . . .being a man.  Besides, a divorced baby boomer mom, usually had a basement to move back into, or a spare room.  So, a couple of babies later, no real commitment, a "place to come home," and life just expands and continues for everyone with no real choices being made.  Life just "happened" and babies just "came along."

Now, there is yet another generation.  Between ancestral guilt and nearly unlimited borrowing opportunities, this generation can have it all by their early twenties, with minimal accountability of reality.  Boys literally do not become men until, well until their mothers stop paying their bills and feeding them.  They do often, however; become fathers long before that.  Moms are so condoning and cool, girls no longer want their own space.  It seems the right of passage for young women these days is motherhood and the right to speak her mind.

Our society seems to have taken the centuries old approach of the family continuing to expand and work together, passing the torch of responsibility with the right of passage, to celebrating a failure to launch.  The right of passage to adulthood used to involve a conscious choice of commitment with no turning back and NO "Alternate Plan B."  Commitment or consequences used to follow choices.  Now, for the most part, our society seems to encourage the choice to not really build a future, but rather just exist, often dependent upon others.  Choices are still being made, but they are not choices of forward momentum and aspiration.  We are living longer and accomplishing less.  We are choosing stagnation, dependence and victimhood, rather than life!

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy children may live:  Torah of Holy Scripture

What's Behind the Headlines?

As racial tension escalates, the flames of religious difference are becoming explosive, and the mentality of "them and us" is fed by the mainstream media, I find myself wondering what's really happening.  I am leaning toward watching the health situations that are barely receiving coverage.  Remember ebola?  Now the CDC has announced that this year's flu shot isn't going to be effective, but . . . there are prescriptions.   I'm also keeping an eye on the economy.  One party says it's really improved, while they fight for more and more benefits for the working poor.  The other party says it's not improved, so we need to make more cuts in programs that are already not helping enough people.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch . . . What happened to Clive Bundy?    Harry Reid said it wasn't over, and although he's no longer the loudest, most powerful voice in the Senate, none of us really expect much change.   The circumstances in the Middle East continue to escalate, while Protestants seem to be heading to the Vatican.  I've watched many folks change position regarding the religious wars.  For this reporter, the bottom line is simple.  There are bad people involved in every religion.  I stand in agreement with Israel, even though I do not agree with the Chabad or Zionists.  I do not and cannot support the tenets of faith when it comes to Islam, nor do I embrace the teachings of the Vatican.

Shutting down the independents seems to be a major goal, here in America.  This goal seems to target a variety of independents from a variety of directions, be it ranchers, a bridal shop owner who had a thoughtless client, Christian bakers, organic farmers, and hobby farmers, to name only a few.  As I watched the reactions to grand jury decisions regarding racially charged headlines, I can't help but notice the businesses that were destroyed in the rioting didn't have a thing to do with the issue, and some of them were owned by individuals of color.  What did that accomplish?  Other than to further divide and cause independent business owners to lose business.  What mom and pop businesses, Wal-Mart hasn't shuttered, the choreographed problems, and programmed agenda will.  Without a doubt, illegal immigrants replacing citizens in the military will make Martial Law a much greater arm of power.  US Citizens would have greater difficulty firing on their fellow citizens, or taking them captive; whereas foreigners probably won't give it a second thought.

At last count, there were 1400 US citizens being monitored for ebola symptoms.  The sunshine state as well as Arizona have changed "their" mind about solar power and it's rumored some folks who have invested, could actually be fined.  Some states are already fining and worse, those who dare catch rainwater.   Obviously, the loss of independence is a major goal in bringing the NWO.  The filtering information is now also a glaring fact.  We simply cannot forget that freedom is not granted by the government, but rather is a gift from our Creator.

You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.  New Testament    

The Court of Public Opinion

Justice has become little more than headlines.  We simply do not know, and many do not care, what the truth actually is.  In the special edition of the Goshen Gazette, remembering the assassination of President Kennedy, a somber fact persists all these years later.  A great many people simply aren't sure we believe the official record.  Lee Harvey Oswald was literally tried, judged, and executed in "the court of public opinion" in less than 48 hours.  Although, only one man pulled the trigger in that Dallas Police Department taking, Oswald's life, that was basically the end of the investigation.  There was no jury, no trial, and no official judgment; but a simple presumption of guilt and the case was closed by the verdict of Warren Commission.

By the time O. J. Simpson was standing trial for a double murder, courtroom drama was already a part of television programming.  Considering O.J. had been big in sports, even movies and advertising, it seemed almost "natural" that his trial would be televised.  What we seemed to overlook in the publicity of this televised trial is the fact that the public had already determined his guilt or innocence, based not upon facts and evidence, but rather race and fame.  I didn't want O.J. to have committed that horrendous act.  I wanted justice, not legal technicalities.  I remembered having such a schoolgirl crush on the Heisman trophy winner back in 1968.  I wanted to believe that O.J. was simply incapable of doing such a thing.  Although he was acquitted, there was still much more than a lingering doubt in regard to his innocence, but he also had been tried by the court of public opinion.

Scott Peterson was clearly tried by the court of public opinion, in that there was a movie made about the case before he even went to trial.  I do have many doubts about this conviction, right down to the fact Laci's disappearance made national news within hours.  A woman presumedly takes her dog for a walk while her husband is fishing, and she's not home when he gets back.  Within just a few hours, a police report is made, the search is organized, and by morning, it's national news.  There's no argument that Scott Peterson is a cad.  He's an adulterous jerk, but that doesn't necessarily make him a murderer.  I've always had a few questions about the massage therapist.  As a former funeral director who worked with several county coroners, the condition and separation of the bodies seemed questionable. Sentencing a man to death, based upon circumstantial evidence seems presumptuous and irresponsible.  The only "evidence" was a single strand of hair thought to be Laci's, in a pair of pliers on Scott's boat.  As a woman with long hair, strands of hair can appear in many unlikely places.  I certainly do not view Scott Peterson as a truthful human being of integrity, it's just hard to believe someone could commit a murder and leave absolutely no evidence, whatsoever.  

Moving on to a more recent event, this past week the grand jury determined there was not enough evidence to bring charges against Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown.  This situation was not only racially, but very, very politically divided and basically appeared to be orchestrated to ramp up tension and deeply divide the people.  There have been many incidents of police brutality, but the man had just stolen merchandise and had gotten a bit physical with the clerk, so there were enough variables to sort through without the racial issue and certainly without the Washington politicians getting involved.  It would appear to this journalist that the powers that be do recognize much is determined by the court of public opinion, and this is one more way to further divide the people.

But YHWH said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for YHWH seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but YHWH looketh on the heart.  History of Holy Scripture

Business As Usual

In driving through the nearest town this past week, I couldn't help but notice the vacant storefronts and for sale signs.  The appearance of "business as usual" is still present, but the reality is a much different perspective.  I remember watching the town near the first homestead, die under the DREAM initiative, and now, a six year history here with a gradual slow decline of this smaller town.  The first town is struggling so much, the Chinese buffets and Mexican restaurants are closing.  The square appears to be at about half capacity for businesses, with many of them being offices rather than retail.  I've spoken with men who began their businesses forty or more years ago, and they resignedly shake their head as they tell me, their hopes of children inheriting their business are simply gone.  When they retire, the business will simply be sold or shuttered.  These men did, however; provide well for their families and employment in the community at one time, but there is no longer a future for local, independent family owned business in America.

The change has been so gradual, we apparently didn't realize what was actually happening.  As a very small child, I remember the downtowns were thriving.  My grandma referred to the main retail business street as "The Avenue."  I was still a child when the malls were built.  I didn't notice at the time, we stopped going to The Avenue as much, and since we lived in the country, our small town "down town" became just a pit stop for odds and ends.  Major shopping was done in the city . . . at the mall.  I'm not really much of a shopper, so I failed to realize the malls were declining until we were shopping for rings at the beginning of this new millenium.  So many places in the mall were vacant, and there were recliners in the middle for the walkers to gather and take a break!  It then dawned upon me that mini-malls had become the convenient trend for stylish retail, and Wal-Mart Supercenters for economical shopping.

In relocation through the summer of 2005, I spent a quite a bit of time on the road, seeing a great deal of road construction.  In all the highway construction, looming in the background were shuttered malls and dormant businesses.  So many businesses were already gone, so many buildings standing vacant, while the plan seemed to already be in place, to divert access to the businesses that were left.  Independence was foundational in the building of America, or so we've been told.  As the years have continued many local independents did not withstand the great recession, which I have termed "the great repression."  These independent business people didn't receive any bailouts.  As the news has reported recovery, I simply do not see it.  Of course, there were jobs created for a time, such as more highway construction and signs, but the only promise that appears to have been created to be lasting is the loss of independent business on the American landscape.

While this economic collapse has been gradual and seemingly isolated, it has spread and continues to spread.  Detroit didn't come back.  Ohio's unemployment rate is still staggering.  The statistics are terribly skewed when it comes to those actively seeking employment and those who have simply given up and sought assistance or taken early retirement.  There are ads everywhere to apply for disability.  Our nation isn't building business and this country is not making products.

The primary employers in this country are government, health care, and Wal-Mart.  Wal-Mart has replaced General Motors as a primary employer.  I was married to a General Motors employee several years ago and I remember our standard of living.  Wal-Mart does not offer that same opportunity to the majority of it's employees.  There is much busy-ness and great chasing, but a drive down main street USA gives clear indication the American standard is far from business as usual.

But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.  prophecy of Holy Scripture  



              

Defining Prejudice

Prejudice can be observed in our politics, in our justice system, in our individual choices and comments.  Prejudice is not simply a "black and white" issue and it certainly isn't a one way street.   Sadly, it is defined so fluidly, there really is no place to begin or end.  Prejudice is simply a matter of what has been taught to the human heart.  When it comes to race, we know babies see color, but simply do not care.  Skin tone is not what young children base their perspective upon, until they are taught to.  Babies do not care what color their caretaker is, as long as they are kept comfortable and feel safe.  Children in groups, just enjoy playing.  Fun is not determined by color, but by activity and social interaction.  The atmosphere of the culture in which a child spends their formative years determines their views of the world around them, with only one of those factors being race.

While so many parents are leaving the raising of their children to the system, "stranger danger" is taught very early.  Statistically, more children are abused by someone they know and trust, but fear of strangers becomes imbedded.  In many cases, the term stranger becomes further defined as "anyone different."  Different can then be racial, cultural, religious, political, or even geographical . . . I'm not suggesting we embrace every difference, and I certainly do not advocate the politically correct concept of "coexist" with the unity that is suggested by the UN and the Vatican.  Differences should be recognized and in many cases, there is cause for alarm.  The alarm, however; should not be based on skin tone, but rather ideology.  Sadly, our political and judicial system are leading much of our society to divide and most of the sheople are following.

As a rule, I like folks of all colors and background, but I draw the line at arrogance and bigotry, which comes in all colors.  I simply do not enjoy people who think too highly of themselves and I really prefer to avoid those who put others down.  I don't like name calling and have a particular pet peeve about folks who change a name or term slightly to make fun of someone.   It's big in talk radio and I find it very annoying, but based upon the popularity, must openly admit, it is apparently my personal problem, so I deal with it.  We can't make everyone accommodate and work around our personal quirks.  Yet it seems, the various minorities do that.  Our society continues to become more fractured as each special interest group desperately seeks a way to be a slighted minority or a humble grassroots movement.

A frightening issue is looming in my home state.  The prejudice is so extreme, it exceeds the desire for truth. The issue is no longer about right or wrong, or community, but simply the "them vs. us" ideology.  Sadly, two of the biggest issues our country now faces, are factors in the situation in Ferguson.  There is much distrust between the citizens and law enforcement.  To intensify that problem, the officer is white and the suspect black.  To that already shaky situation, add Al Sharpton and three White House officials.  It's as if, anarchy is the goal!  If the officer had been black, or the suspect, white, it wouldn't have even made the headlines outside the local area.  That can be verified in the fact that a non white officer shot a young unarmed white man within days of the incident in Ferguson, resulting in very different responses.  A white man was shot by a non-white police officer in Utah, but no one is crying for charges to be filed.

If the leadership and talking heads can continue to keep us divided and fearful, prejudice will increase.  Blacks hating whites is just as racist, as white bigotry.  It's time we the people stop fighting amongst ourselves and take exception with those who are feeding the fear and sowing the strife.  I've already made the joke after listening to so many democratic voices play the race card when some disagrees with the policies of the current administration.  "When the "other party" nominates a candidate of color in this next presidential campaign, they'll be holding the race card!  What will Oprah say when the "old white people" who haven't died, vote for someone like Ben Carson or Alan West?

In all the problems facing America, it seems like skin tone should be way down on the list.  I'm tired of the black and white issue, while the rainbow has been stolen by an agenda seeking to devour our children.  I'm tired of the pretend persecution of a manufactured war over a holiday, when real persecution is already taking place and heading our way.  I'm also extremely tired of the red conservatives vs. blue liberals, when it's incredibly obvious party politicians of both sides are working toward the same end:  control!  Reverse racism and political prejudice are simply choreographed to keep the people divided and ultimately enslaved!

. . . for YHWH seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but YHWH looketh on the heart.  History of Holy Scripture

 


 

And the Beat Goes On . . .

I think I understand and recognize a pattern, here.  When a president is elected, the first four years are spent, claiming to be cleaning up the last guy's mess.  If he is convincing enough, or the economy is good enough or the anger at "them," whoever "they" are, is strong enough, he is elected to a second term.

The second term seems to amount to two years of a choreographed effort by politicians and media to firmly divide the people for the midterm election, usually with some sort of major issue.  Sadly, in this administration it was the death of four Americans in Libya.  This one was particularly horrible as usually, the scandals don't involve the loss of life.  So the first two years of the second term amount to two years of "frustration" waiting for the midterm election to change majority with a scandal, that the media can really sink their teeth into.  Think Watergate, Iran Contra, or Monica . . .  Bush 43 has his own paragraph.

Then the midterm election through the president's second term guarantees lameduck and gridlock, with everyone talking about working together . . . "talking" being the operative.  When the president is in his second term, the rumbles of the next presidential campaign begin the the day after the midterm.  Presidential campaigns now last nearly 2 years.  Since it's gridlock, half of the Senate can be on the campaign trail . . . If I remember correctly, 10 Senators were running in the primaries in '07 - '08.

As for the second term of Bush 43.  He had so much going on most of the time, that he didn't really need a specific scandal, and it wasn't until after the midterm election of his second term that most of America realized the economic calamity that was already occurring.  With the war in Iraq still so new, re-election in 2004, especially against Kerry or Edwards seemed pretty simple.  The democrats simply had no worthy opponent against Bush in '04.  Six years of controversy still brought about the usual midterm party majority switch, lameduck, and gridlock.  Then for real hope and change to be ushered in, we had economic collapse with loss in housing values and the auto industry . . .

The last two presidential campaigns have seemed quite orchestrated.  The republicans chose, both times, to run a candidate that their own party had rejected in an earlier primary.  John McCain lost to G.W. in 2000 and Romney lost to John McCain in 2008.  The intention to give Obama no competition was obvious.  While Obama is changing the landscape of America from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the business background is undoubtedly changing with the other party in the private sector.  The elected officials are just doing what the highest bidder tells them to do.

When it's said and done, the pattern has been pretty much the same in over 50 years of American politics, and very consistent in the last 20 some.  I'm not suggesting that everyone should stop voting, I'm just saying I see no real change of direction, regardless of the vote.  Rearrange the deck chairs on the sinking ship while hoping a new captain will magically change the fact the ship is taking on water and sinking, doesn't seem to be working.  Unlike sea captains, America's politically elite don't go down with the ship.

. . . and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore, and no man shall save thee.  Torah of Holy Scripture

Weighing the Evidence

Kaci Hickox is certainly receiving her 15 minutes of fame, isn't she!  I didn't realize I could have any less respect for America's political health care system, but as it turns out, I do.  In watching her interview, I can honestly say, I wouldn't want her to take care of my dog.  I was completely unimpressed by her statement.  The idea of going to another continent to take care of people sounds like such an heroic humanitarian effort, and for many, I'm sure it is.  I don't understand though, if she's truly the heroic humanitarian that she is presented to be, why would a three week vacation with reading material, wifi, and menu options be so horrible?  I don't place nurses high on my trust list, anyway; but this truly should shake the faith of many.  I know there are many well intentioned caregivers in the system, but I also know there are many in health care for the money and control.

Health care can hold any patient for several reasons, remove children from their parent's custody, and ruin lives based upon subjective whims and unquestioned authority.  There are already in place enough state health care regulation to keep the average John Q. Public against his will, for general observation.  HIPAA laws prevent family and friends from gaining information, so realistically a person could be held and that information not released.  I'd also include a Scriptural reference from Matthew 10, in which some of us may actually face quarantine or being held, and family will jump right in to support the captivity.  Be aware of the facts of your state and whom you trust with your information.  Be it health care worker, law enforcement, or family, we need to know whom we can trust, and whom we cannot.  Most of us won't have the political power Kacy Hickox has enjoyed.  When it comes to the powers that be, whether it's police, health care, or lawyers, "they" do take care of "their own."

I've referred to this nurse as irresponsible, selfish, and agreed with a number of negative comments that have been made regarding her refusal to be quarantined for 21 days after caring for ebola patients.  Through her "press conference" someone mentioned that her roommate in West Africa has been diagnosed with ebola, to which she said that was errant information and she didn't want to take the focus off of her, I mean, "the court's decision."  Even NASA astronauts enter a time of seclusion after reentering and landing.  Obviously there is a vast difference in discipline and integrity between astronauts and health care workers, but I digress . . .

Perhaps this nurse doesn't need quarantine or seclusion.  I truly hope she is not sick.  Perhaps this nurse, as an employee or agent of the CDC, knows she doesn't have ebola because she knows exactly how this deadly disease is contracted.  The cynic in me has surfaced though, and I'm truly wondering if she's really been anywhere taking care of anyone.  This could be a great false flag!

. . . and be sure your sin will find you out.  Torah of Holy Scripture

When Trust is Gone

Trust is a difficult topic to address.  It seems distrust or loss of trust is easier to identify and categorize.  Many of us openly acknowledge our distrust of the mainstream media.  Sadly, many who feel one set of initials cannot be trusted, have chosen to give blind faith to another set of initials which are basically owned by the same power behind the scenes.  In recognizing and vocalizing distrust of media, the integrity of our leaders and representatives then comes into question.  Who can we trust?  Once the distrust has been recognized, acknowledged, and even verbalized, then what?

Most of us have experienced the loss of trust on a personal level, and once that occurs, if we have any sense at all, the relationship needs to be re-evaluated, reconsidered, or redefined.  Loss of trust changes things.  Even in the case of repentance and remorse, there is still a probation period required to rebuild what was lost.  When trust is breached in personal relationships, we can choose to keep a guard up or choose to rebuild the relationship, or in many cases, just be kind, yet wary.  In my own life, when it's not matters of life and death, like broken promises about someone doing something that they repeatedly forget, I just realize that's one of those things I can't count on and do it myself.  I don't choose to let it actually alter the rest of the relationship, but . . . in matters of importance, a loss of trust is a game changer!  The only proven method of working around the situation, is 100% faith in our Heavenly Father, regarding public information and our government!

Citizens have attempted to continue to believe in our country, while changing news sources and electing a different party, but as we can see, the trust is simply gone.  We all have that sad relationship in which we love someone, but we can't trust them.  The majority of Americans seem to feel that way about our country.  We love what our nation "stands for," but . . .Very few of us, any more, feel we can believe anything the media reports, and we openly declare politicians, to be untrustworthy.   So what is the average citizen to do as an individual regarding this breach of trust?  I can't speak for anyone else, but I will voice the extremes my brain has been sorting through.

First and foremost, every headline I read is either a distraction from, or one step closer to the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy . . . or both.  When I see a report of a school shooting, I pray for our children, then wonder if it's real or a false flag.  When I see another suspected case of ebola, I feel compassion for the potential victims, concern for the possible spread, then doubt the information.  When I see CDC reports, I completely dismiss their validity.  The CDC and FDA are in the same folder in my file cabinet!  When I see common core and LGBTQ propaganda, I have no question, it's an agenda.  As for the illegal immigration situation, that's a situation both parties have proven will not be addressed in a protective manner, but is rather just one more variable to divide the people for the conquer.  There is a common thread in all of this, however; and that is the certainty of misinformation, division of the people, and the goal to control.

Ebola could certainly be the single threat that accomplishes the most control.  First, much of the citizenry is aware of the patent, so that does make it more frightening, and gives every indication, there is no one to trust.  The second problem with ebola, is we have to take "their" word for the confirmed cases, and so far, it's been those in health care who seem to be the "vehicles" used in spreading it.  These two frightening variables cannot be factored into a logical plan.  If the government controls the disease and health care spreads it, where does one go for safety?  Obviously, the only answer is The One Who is trustworthy.  Our Creator is still greater than anything humanity can come up with, but . . . and I know this sounds "preachy."  We have to make a clear and concise decision and stick with it.  Do we trust our Creator or do we vacillate back and forth?  Most in America think there is a proper combo of politics, medicine, and faith.  I no longer adhere to that blend, and haven't for nearly a decade and a half!

As most are questioning as to whether it is really even happening or the other extreme, is it potentially air borne and they aren't telling us, we have to realize these two questions are quite polarizing.  We are rapidly approaching the point in history in which there is no middle ground and none of us know which extreme to believe!  Since there is nothing new under the sun, I suggest we realize and face the fact, this has been done before, and the only personal solution is to allow our Creator to raise us above this extreme polarization with full faith in Him and Him alone.  An election will not change the prophesied course of this nation.  A vaccination will not lengthen one's numbered days, but . . . a lack of faith does have eternal consequences.

Setting aside all theories, the simple goal of earthly power, is absolute control and that will take place regardless of party leadership, social media protest, or proving agendas, it's prophecy!  This generation simply cannot continue in the societal mixing and mingling we were taught.

And if it seem evil unto you to serve YHUH, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve YHUH.  history of Holy Scripture

The Power of Fear

Fear is quite a powerful force.  Our politicians are well aware of that fact, and have been through several administrations.  According to Scripture, it would seem the only thing more powerful than fear, is love.  In this world, love is sadly, in very short supply; so fear prevails.  As I read the headlines, the very first thing that crosses my mind, is of course; what are we not seeing while anywhere between 2-5 suspected cases of ebola are covering the country, raising the potential number exponentially?

Clearly, this is no accident!  This entire Dallas fiasco, is reprehensible.  First, they sent a very sick man home, then two days later, was brought back in by ambulance.  I realize we're being told it's all quite containable and under control, until the next headline . . . I do believe this entire "ebola scare" is very much under control, but I'm not thrilled with the ones who are in control!   We have since been told that everyone he came in contact with is being monitored.  The fact that he is dead and cannot give a full account of everyone with whom he had contact, obviously leaves that statement unconfirmed and unprovable.

Meanwhile, it seems a couple of healthcare workers at the Dallas hospital have absolutely no regard for those whom they may put in harm's way.  One, knowingly boarded a flight with a fever having called CDC, and well aware that a coworker was in isolation awaiting possible ebola confirmation, and that she also had cared for the man who had died.  This second health care worker was a lab tech, I believe who went on a cruise and got the whole ship turned around at Belize and headed back to the Texas port.  Isn't it great to know there are such caring, responsible people in health care?

While the ebola headlines continue to pervade our internet information, the human enterovirus 68 is losing media coverage.  What appeared to be a firestorm last month in 12 states has now been reported in 32 more, but on the decline?  I've included a CDC link with a map, that is said to revise and repost, weekly with new information.

KU Med Center is reported to have encountered two possible cases of ebola with the lab results coming back, negative.  Toward the end of the CDC report about the two patients at KU, one is suspected of possibly having contracted typhoid or typhus, and the other had malaria . . .  As it turns out, Big Pharma has vaccines for typhoid as well as typhus, and medications for the prevention and treatment of malaria.

With all the ebola headlines, I nearly missed this one.  http://7online.com/health/ebola-press-conference-at-yale-hospital/353216/

Heal me, O YHUH, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.  Prophet of Holy Scripture

Pandemic Invasion ?

photo in USA Today

I've done several blogs through the years on the subject of TSA, a.k.a. Transportation Security Administration.  Through the years, my blogs have mostly been tongue in cheek, but sincerely expressing my disdain for this outrageous display of control.  I was first introduced to TSA in 2002 going to Washington DC.  Since it was the first year after 9/11 and the Capital, I did my best to cut them some slack.  I mean, paranoia in high places, did reign supreme at the time.

It was eighteen months later, when doing a bit of international traveling, my skepticism rose.  By the time I returned from my travels and headed to the City of Brotherly Love later that same year, skepticism gave way to outright cynicism and disgust.  It became obvious that this was really not about safety at all, but seeing how much the sheople would tolerate in submission.  When my underwires held up the line at KCI, I was asked if I wanted to be groped privately.  My statement was simple.  "No thank you, do it here, I want witnesses!"  It was at that moment, I knew, I would choose a public strip search, rather than submit to their private molestation policy.  It was also at that moment, I made the choice to never put myself in that position again!

Since retiring my passport and no longer racking up any frequent flier miles, I've continued to monitor the outrageous policies of the TSA, and the horrific acts of invasion and violence this agency has perpetrated in airports.  What has been consistent is the "introduction" of further invasive procedures, the backlash, the "simmer down time" then the implementation of the invasive procedure while dangling a carrot or tossing a crumb to the willing throngs . . .  I had a dream several years ago that I knew was of spiritual significance.  I thought the "herding" was done in a mall setting, but now after seeing some of the photos of this latest security measure, I'm wondering if that dream atmosphere was not a mall, but an airport.

We've gone from walking through the metal detectors, emptying pockets and removing coats and shoes to, manual pat downs and seriously invasive body searches, to technological strip search, and now to temperature checks.  I watched the person ahead of me in an airport go right on through in their burqa, no questions asked, no pat down, no nothing.  With only their eyes showing, they could have been anyone!  Actually, there was really no indication that it was even a woman . . . I pondered that fact, through my underwire patdown.

Perhaps Americans traveling back into the US would be less inconvenienced if they simply flew into Mexico and walked on in.  One of my snarkier blogs actually suggested combining health care and airport security.  It was a warning, not a recommendation!

We are seriously looking at fulfillment of judgment for not heeding the warning of our Creator.

If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, YHWH thy G-D . . . Also every sickness, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law, them will YHWH bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed.  Torah of Holy Scripture

Strange Science

This ebola scare has me cautiously skeptical.  I have no doubt the disease does exist, but many of the details definitely raise a great many red flags.  The first red flag being the headline coverage.  When scary headlines continue day after day, I simply cannot help but wonder what is going on that isn't being reported.   The next thing I find to be alarming is the statistical comparison between ebola deaths and those from malaria on that same continent.   I've included two links with a paragraph from each article.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebola_virus_epidemic_in_West_Africa
As of 29 September 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO), the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local governments reported a total of 7,192 suspected cases and 3,286 deaths (3,988 cases and 1,954 deaths having been laboratory confirmed)

http://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/malaria-consortium-partner-zone/world-malaria-report-2013

- There were an estimated 207 million cases of malaria in 2012 (uncertainty range: 135 – 287 million) and an estimated 627 000 deaths (uncertainty range: 473 000 – 789 000). 90% of all malaria deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa, and 77% occur in children under five.

- In 2012, malaria killed an estimated 483 000 children under five years of age. That is 1300 children every day, or one child almost every minute.

There are already a number of drugs to prevent malaria, yet hundreds of thousands African children die every year from that disease and there are no headlines, just grim statistics in google searches.
Also noted, I was unable to find a patent for malaria, whereas the CDC holds the patent for ebola.

I was surprised to discover a whole new concept in GMO, although I don't know why I was surprised.   Pharmaceuticals are nothing new to Monsanto, as GD Searle Company became part of Monsanto back in the mid eighties.  It seems ZMapp, the experimental drug used to treat ebola, is produced through genetically modified tobacco.  Big win for Monsanto and the tobacco industry!

Meanwhile, fleas carrying the bubonic plague have been verified in both Colorado and Arizona, with at least one official diagnosis confirmed in August.

http://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/stories/bubonic-plague-found-in-colorado-fleas

http://www.13wmaz.com/story/news/health/2014/09/30/fleas-in-arizona-test-positive-for-the-plague/16488169/

If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, YHWH Elohim;  Then YHWH will make thy plagues wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed, even great plagues, and of long continuance, and sore sicknesses, and of long continuance.  Torah of Holy Scripture

Labels Shmabels

I've had the dubious honor of being labeled my entire life, but not for inclusion into any special clubs or groups, it's always been for exclusionary purposes.  The interesting fact is, the labels have varied through the years, but the purpose has seemed consistent.  The reason I mention this at all is to address the two videos I ran last week in the Goshen Gazette.  One, by a pretty famous gentleman who claims to be both liberal and an atheist and the other video by a self-proclaimed Tea Party spokesman . . ."G-d and Country" kind of guy.  I don't agree with either of these men's politics or religion, but we all three, agree on Israel, and so I ran their videos on that specific subject.  It did something for me that I can't really articulate, but it was quite illuminating.  How much do we miss by our preconceived notions due to labels?

My labeled life began early, by my mom, but I won't go into those.  I'd like to address and debunk a few of the social stigmas, political preconceptions, and religious ruckuses that keep us from hearing others who just might agree on some issues, but take their stand in a "different camp."  Due to Bill Maher's outspoken disrespect and professed disbelief of a Creator, I wouldn't have guessed him to be such a well researched proponent of Israel!  I'm so glad I looked past his own self-professed claims.  As for Wild Bill for America, I don't think our political, religious, or racial thinking aligns much, but in a circle graph, there would be areas of overlap.  He's one of those guys whom I'd love to hear share how he comes to express the perspective he does.

These men, tout their labels and belong to their various groups of shared perspective.  I'm going to mention the other end of that continuum, because I know I'm not the only one . . . When I began school, I remember myself and one boy being called to the teacher's desk.  We had to turn in our silver, pointed scissors, for green handled rounded tip scissors.  We were the "lefties." I was also ahead of the desegregation of civil rights, so I was the darkest child at school.  Back then non-whites were referred to as "colored."  Ah the labels begin so early, and truly they serve more to divide than bring acceptance.

Democrats or progressives tend to refer to me as a conservative, because I oppose big government on religious grounds.  Republicans refer to me as liberal, because I believe one must be Torah observant to enforce Torah laws, in the areas of punishment and war.  Most Christians refer to me as legalistic or a Judaizer.  Just last week, I was even called a pretender by a good Christian man and openly lied to, in an attempt for an individual to use a thread as a platform or soapbox against my beliefs.  The Jewish folk aren't usually name callers, but oy vey, the Torah proselytes from Christianity have labels for everyone who disagrees.

In my years of social media, I've been outspoken enough in my beliefs to be slammed, unfriended, and shunned by the religious, but never by unbelievers, except family . . . All of my "friends" or associates have access to the same posts, I presume . . .  Although I refer to myself as a Follower of Messiah, I've had a great many more labels by the folks claiming the same.  We're not all going to agree on everything.  Nobody has everything right.  Torah tells us, and Messiah reiterated; there are four kinds of folk in the world.

Atheists may have never tasted the goodness of our Creator.  Those who put G-d and country on the same level, may not realize this tradition is idolatry.  I'm so glad I looked beyond both of these men's "labels" and heard their message.  It's not up to me to label and discard human beings!  My job is to speak the truth and pray.  I'm so thankful the Creator of the universe looked beyond all my labels, both deserved and undeserved . . . and labeled me "Forgiven and Chosen."

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light:  Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of YHWH: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. ~ the Apostle Peter

The Real Cost of Inflation

We continue to be told that inflation is minimal, but that is not the case.  Inflation still exists, but it affects things most of us aren't purchasing.  This is the first year in five that good crop and grazing land hasn't gone up significantly.  Most of us aren't buying farmland, but all of us are dependent upon what that land produces, and very much counting on someone to work the land.  The harvest is looking shaky this year, not in the amount, but in the price.  In much of the cropland, the weather has been optimal, but a big harvest may actually bring the price down, while farmers and ranchers have not yet recovered from the years of drought.  Shemitah hasn't even been figured into the equation.

The following is a quote from an article written in 2011, entitled, "High Costs Make it Hard to Grow Young Farmers."
"[Some people are] sitting in New York [and] saying, 'Well, I don't know, I've never even been to Nebraska, but by golly, I'm going to buy some Nebraska land,' " Goss says. "And you have these groups coming together ... that are buying farmland [and] driving up farmland prices to prices we've not seen before."

Goss says even though the Federal Reserve is keeping interest rates low for the next few years, banks simply aren't lending to high-risk first-time farmers.  FULL STORY

Young men with degrees in agriculture can't afford machinery and land.  The equipment required to farm is in the hundreds of thousands and good farmland is selling between $5,000 and $10,000 and acre.   Even at the low figure, a small farm, 160 acres is upward toward a million dollars and that's not enough ground to produce crops to pay for the equipment needed, much less turn a profit.  Most farming households in America have one spouse that works away from the farm.  Some farmers, and there really aren't many farmers left; have inherited their land and rent additional land for crops or pasture, while their spouse works in town.  The numbers look big on paper, but the genuine profit is marginal.

The cost of farmland and machinery, of course affects the cost of groceries, but for some reason the economic reports do not consider these most basic variables into the equation regarding inflation.  To be honest, when I began researching this subject, I expected to find some seriously concrete figures and statistics, but there really aren't any.  Basically, the farmer invests hundreds of thousands of dollars on the hope that he'll make enough to meet his operating expenses and stay in business another year.  Most of the young folks interested in agriculture are already eyeing a deal with Monsanto.  The average age of a farmer working the land is 56 years old, and many of their sons do not intend to follow in their father's footsteps.  Much of American farmland that is operated by independents, is mortgaged or leased.

Farming and ranching is now heading into bigger and bigger operations and we already know, only the big corporations can afford that kind of outlay of investment.  When a farmer can't meet operating expenses, the banks foreclose and that independent operation ultimately becomes just another holding of a conglomerate.   Meanwhile, the food supply becomes more centralized and controlled.   The real cost of inflation is slavery!

Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants to Pharaoh. Give us seed, that we may live, and not die, and that the land won`t be desolate."  Torah of Holy Scripture 

Pay Attention to School Rules

Who needs "Youth Camps" when we have the public school system that extends on into "higher" education?  In the name of political correctness and tolerance, what is happening?  The program for the future.  The next generation is our future.  Sadly they are being schooled to be ruled!

A soldier was told by security that he couldn't enter his daughter's high school in uniform.  That situation has since been publicly addressed by the principal or superintendent, stating there is no policy against military uniforms.  How nice!  The headlines about Michigan and the images from various cities do indicate big changes are coming.  The headlines indicate the direction is moving away, far away, from "Star Spangled Patriotism!"

The news of the little boy in Florida is not exactly new, but I don't think we should let this decision fade into obscurity, just yet.  The child was publicly shamed before his peers and those in authority sidestepped the actual issue in a response by the principal.  “You child is permitted to read the Bible before school, after school and during lunch, in accordance to the law,” the letter states.

The following statement is quoted from the article, and includes a link for the full article.
He cited U.S. Department of Education guidance that allows for students to read their Bibles during non-instructional time. It reads in part, "...students students may read their Bibles or other scriptures, say grace before meals, and pray or study religious materials with fellow students during recess, the lunch hour, or other noninstructional time to the same extent that they may engage in nonreligious activities."

Meanwhile on the other side of the country we have two interesting situations taking place.  First, an Arizona High School has made sure to accommodate Muslim students for their prayer time.  Apparently, the separation of church and state does not cover separation of mosque and state.  Arizona is headlined to be a very conservative state.  Do not let this go under the radar . . . Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas recently stated that it would not be against the Constitution for states to declare a state religion.  Since we are all well aware this is not really a G-dly country, much less a single religious nation, it is theoretically possible for Michigan to declare a state religion of Islam, while Texas declares itself to be Christian, while Colorado could go Wiccan . . .  The potential foundation has been laid, and "politically correct tolerance" appears to be ready to build upon it!

A California State University has ruled that any student groups on campus, in order to be recognized, must not have religious regulation for leadership positions.  So a Christian group, in order to be recognized on campus for discounts, etc. must open the ranks of leadership to those outside of the tenets of the Christian faith.  In essence, this rule means a Christian group must make room for leadership outside of Christianity.  It is considered discrimination for a Christian group to disallow a gay officer, a Muslim officer, or even an atheist officer.  My thought here, is genuine outreach . . . These groups which are no longer allowed to be recognized should meet off campus, then join the more politically protected and correct groups that must also follow those rules, and make their presence known . . . or stop giving your hard earned money to a university that stands against your beliefs!

Yea, and all that will live G-dly in Messiah Y'hshuwah shall suffer persecution.  words of the Apostle Paul to Pastor Timothy

Really, Now . . .

The baby boomers are apparently the most powerful generation to have ever lived, as we are blamed for all the ills in the world today.  As an aging boomer, my newly discovered perspective is gaining momentum in my life.  Recently there was an article stating that this latest generation of gamers, is the fault of the Boomers!  I wish I could type an apathetic shrug, but, the "eye roll guy" will also work to convey my heartfelt responsibility.  Every generation is a product of their "raising," yet the Boomers have been the catchall blame generation from both ascending and descending generations.  

                      
>>>Some boomers with less cash at their disposal made up for it through helicopter parenting and undeserved flattery that exaggerated their kids’ abilities. A whole generation now bears the hollow self-esteem and inflated expectations that come from weak parenting. <<<

I did that, I admit it.  I didn't do the helicopter parenting, because that's the way I was raised, but I did a great deal of undeserved flattery and the exaggerated self-esteem is evident!  I didn't mean to do it, but as it turns out, I tired to do just the opposite of what my "silent generation" parents did.  I didn't want my daughter to feel as inferior about herself, as I did.  My adopted children who did not have my influence through their formative years don't have the same exaggerated self-esteem, so my "boomer blame" is definitely deserved, in that area!  As for debt and social security, no.  

I was one of the few boomers that never really sold out to the establishment, although I did try to swim in mainstream for a bit, it just didn't work out for me.  I've been living debt free and simply for nearly 20 years and broke and poor before that!  The last of the American inheritances are going to long term care for the Greatest Generation!  In the past twenty years, I've made provisions intending to leave an inheritance, as well as working until I die.  With the economy what it is, we may all be working til we die and who knows if dollars will even be worth the monopoly money it is now.  I don't believe in collecting social security.  According to Torah and confirmed in Paul's writings, the parents are to provide for the children and social security operates in diametrical opposition.

In our family, the generations are so close together, the defining lines truly blur.  My parents were teens when I was born, and I was also a teenaged mother . . .  At 56 years of age, I still have a grandma living, and I am a great grandma, 
so . . . the beat goes on.  My parents arrived right before WWII, so they are among the youngest of the silent generation.  I've never met anyone of the silent generation who isn't quite vocal and opinionated on everything, and especially opinionated on the subject of baby boomers.  The boomers were blamed for everything that went wrong in the sixties . . . and the seventies . . . right on up to the millennials. 

 Actually, we could play this blame game farther back, if you consider, the fact that the Boomers didn't exactly just crawl out from under rocks and ruin the world!   Why we could blame the people who raised us, and they could blame the people who raised them . . . and you know, we could go all the way back and blame Adam and Eve!

The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.  Torah of Holy Scripture

More on I-49

There's more to report about this very interesting Highway change through most of the state of Missouri and Arkansas.  Job creation and corporate power seem to be working in tandem.  Job creation amounted to temporary government jobs that destroyed independent businesses.  The Big Corporation, however; has all the working poor help it needs . . . with access to every super center between here and Fayetteville.

The Interstate that had to barricade every "at grade intersection" for safety reasons, stops abruptly just north of Jane, Missouri.  Jane, Missouri is home to this country's second largest data warehouse, which just happens to be owned by Wal-Mart.  Some reports indicate it may actually be the largest data warehouse by now.  Traveling continues south on 71 Highway with "at grade intersections" into Bella Vista, Arkansas, Bentonville, Rogers, and Springdale, Arkansas.  Just south of Springdale, the Interstate 49 signs resume.

 I noticed a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Farmington, Arkansas.  It's a relatively small building in comparison to the SuperCenters.  I didn't go in, but it appeared to be a grocery store, or very large convenience store.  There are just three planned in NW Arkansas right now, but then . . . expansion should be easy when access to the other Markets is barricaded!

As I write this, I'm thinking those economic opportunities that were promised by MoDot, that I didn't see a few weeks ago, may prove to be new neighborhood markets at the official exits.  Now that access is denied to the formerly existing businesses and since nothing really exists right now where those overpasses have been built, some sort of neighborhood market or large convenience store may already be in the plans.

As we've gone on busily about our stressful lives, the independent gas stations and Mom and Pop markets have become history.  I've watched railroad crossings designed to be impossible to turn around and the whistles have been silenced.  If one considered these to be pieces of the same puzzle, it would appear that our mobility is about to become limited and our supply reduced from "Name Brands" and "Best Choice" to "One Brand" and  "No Choice."

But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of YHWH thy G-d, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:  Torah of Holy Scripture

Which Way is This Discrimination Truly Aimed?

Discrimination against religion.  These businesses are not protesting gay weddings!  They are just preferring to not participate, but according to court decisions, that is no longer their right, as Americans!

Cake decorating is now political.  Please allow me to clarify.  It's political if you have strong religious beliefs, live in a state that may or may not recognize same sex marriage, and own a business that becomes the target of the Gay Agenda.

Masterpiece Cakeshop

A decorated cake is just as much a work of art as any painting, sculpture, or tapestry.  Artists, by definition, express themselves, in their work!  

What happened to the right to refuse service?  What happened to a dissatisfied customer just “taking their business elsewhere?”  I have an idea for all of us business folk who do believe our beliefs have a priority in our business dealings.  We must seek our Creator and ask Him for a creative way to deal with this tyrannical agenda.  A person who has started a business, tended to that  business and perfected their art, craft, or skill can still be protected, but it won't be by the government.  The business owners have genuinely invested of themselves in their business and their community, unlike the plaintiffs, who have merely seen an opportunity to raise their bully pulpit once again.

Two of the three cases that have gone to court and the judgment has been rendered against the business owners took place in states that did not even recognize same-sex marriage, at the time the lawsuits!  The state didn't recognize same sex marriage, yet insisted that a business recognize it.   Are judges and officials so blind that they cannot see they are being foolishly used to further an agenda, or are they willing and compliant to favor a specific belief over another?

I have two suggestions for business folk everywhere.  First, present your craft, your business, your service as an “art.”  Art is protected and applauded for it's uniqueness and even offensive statement.  The crucifix in urine comes to mind . . .  Once your business is established as artistic, copyright your particular statement.  For instance, my soap labels all have a Bible verse on them, yet my soap is “crafted.”  I would suggest bakery owners who base their business on their beliefs, do something similar.  The religious discrimination is only going to become stronger and more invasive, and the discrimination is against the religious.  

These business people, unlike the artist in 1987, are not applauded for their religious statements, but actually penalized for their beliefs.  I hadn't realized how long the anti-Bible agenda has been going on, but the momentum it has gained recently is reprehensible.  The first amendment is being destroyed by the very courts that are in place to uphold it.  Fining a small independent business owner on the grounds of their religious beliefs, and I don't care how it's presented in legal jargon; is persecution.  These entrepreneurs are facing the demise of their livelihood for their beliefs . . . in America.  This is going far beyond the loss of the first amendment.  

The condescension with which these business people are being treated is shameful.   Colorado does not license same sex marriage, yet Jack Phillips of Masterpiece Cakeshop is being court ordered to create art that is against his heart.

Although Oregon did not recognize same sex marriage at the time of this incident, the state has now legalized it, but that still does not change the circumstances of this particular case.  The Kleins who own Sweetcakes by Melissa became the target of a lesbian couple, before Oregon even legalized same sex marriage.  Some of the comments following the article, made by the "i-pad legal experts" are priceless.

Pennsylvania just legalized same sex marriage and the owner of Cake Pros was immediately in the crosshairs of a lesbian couple.  The reporter was more than obvious in his condescending title of the article.  Included is a comment made in an interview given by one of the "brides,"   Petrich told WFMZ she wanted to support her hometown, and that's why she chose the bakery. "We asked her to make us a wedding cake and not marry us. I didn't understand."
Maybe I'm wrong here, but if I wanted to support my hometown, and one bakery didn't want my business, I'd just go to another one.

This final reference is not a bakery, but it sure puts the icing on the cake.  Are Americans with strong religious beliefs about marriage, GMO, health care, etc. going to have to go underground?  A couple rent out their grand farmhouse for special events, so of course a lesbian couple saw their opportunity.  The judge went so far as to order the owners of Liberty Ridge Farms to actually give money to these women.
The quote contains the link to the full story.  “No one should have the happiest time of their life marred by discrimination,” McCarthy, who was represented alongside her wife by the New York Civil Liberties Union, said in a statement, according to the New York Law Journal. “We hope this decision will protect all New Yorkers from having to go through the hurt that we experienced.”  They were only renewing their vows . . .

I do not have a spotless track record when it comes to marriage, but I can saw unequivocally, the last thing I considered when making wedding plans, was to create some political statement or worse, make my "special day" be the cause of other's discomfort or destroy a business!  If a wedding means so much to these couples, why make a point of patronizing a business that would prefer not to have their business?  Perhaps these individuals have felt shunned and discriminated against, not because of their sexual preference, but due to their bullying tendencies.

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:  And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet.  ~ Romans