The ranchers were steadily in the news earlier this year while the Sioux of North Dakota, not so much. Do you wonder why that is? Obviously there is big government and big money involved, but my query led to the media. Why would the media give practically round the clock coverage to a group of "cowboys" staying in an empty wildlife center miles from any town, while including daunting adjectives; yet Native Americans have been camping for months with their families and others joining them, only to receive very scant coverage, at best? The one difference that I should mention is: The Standing Rock Protest began on private land, while Malheur is federally owned. Federal used to mean "of the people . . ."
To cause division is the difference and division of the people is the goal. An accusation of racism has been attempted, but there are just too many people in this country who have Native ancestry or are married to someone who does. Who can be racist against Native Americans without having a family feud on their hands? Besides, it's politically correct and rather trendy to have Native ancestry, so this issue just won't fit in the racism box. I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard a blue eyed blond share that their great grandma was an Indian princess.
Big Oil is so greedy and invasive to so many on both sides of the aisle, Bernie and Trump supporters can find a mutual ground against Big Oil. No one is really talking about the fact that the possibility of contaminating the longest river in the country is at stake with this pipeline. Can you imagine an oil spill in the longest river of the country? Is that a potential crisis the government won't let go to waste . . . ? Now that Bayer and Monsanto are discussing a merger, we don't need Big Oil and Big Gov't in charge of the water. The Protectors at Standing Rock are just not a divisive issue for the media to use to manipulate the masses.
The ranchers, however; are another matter. Besides the fact, their protest was spontaneous and poorly planned, it divided the conservatives. Some conservatives determined the ranchers were at fault and belong in jail, while others see the BLM as today's American "brown shirts." The potential for conservative division is what gave the ranchers more media coverage. I watched a couple of Wild Bill's videos as he vacillate across both ends of the spectrum, for his 15 minutes of fame on the subject; but his last video that I viewed on the subject, lost him more than one subscriber. Dividing over the land just seemed to lay the foundation for the further division of the conservatives through this very unusual presidential campaign.
The liberal side of the country seemed pretty much in agreement and openly hostile toward the ranchers. I was unfriended by a few on social media over the issue, but I don't really consider that relevant. The "friends" I've lost over various religious and political issues will be remembered when the excrement hits the oscillating device. Those of us who have come to unity in our understanding are cherished. I've learned a great deal from a great many people, and been able to share, as well.
The division is being spread and fed, like gasoline on a wildfire. Just as Standing Rock was gaining a bit of mainstream media coverage, the racial rioting began again, and the coverage has been wide spread. As a journalist, I do try to cover the lesser known stories and issues, but I am obviously biased in my articles . . . all of them. I'm not going to describe my view or writing as "fair and balanced" as Fox News has completely redefined the meaning of both of those terms.
There are some of us who are simply trying to let the Other 1% know they are few in number, but they are not alone.
Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in The Way. a Proverb of Holy Scripture
Showing posts with label america. Show all posts
Showing posts with label america. Show all posts
Monday, September 26, 2016
Friday, September 09, 2016
Standing Rock
But in a development that stunned even the tribe’s lawyers, the decision by District Judge James E. Boasberg was effectively put on hold by a federal order to stop construction near the tribe’s reservation until the Army Corps of Engineers can revisit its previous decisions in the disputed portion. Washington Post
As I've watched the situation at Standing Rock develop, I've been saddened beyond words. This is my first attempt to express what I've been contemplating. I see the courage in those who are standing, and I pray all those who are going in support are truly supportive. What I see in all this, though; is this problem started long before Standing Rock, and as much as I'd like to, I can't lay all the blame on the white man. Being of Native American descent, I've always been proud of my ancestry, but in many ways for several years, it was just a cubbyholed fact of my DNA. I'm blessed to be obviously Native American in my appearance, as I've met a great many blond, blue-eyed folks who claim a Native heritage, but that isn't the point. A part of me, was earthy and spiritual, but it wasn't until our Heavenly Father a.k.a. The Great Spirit healed my mind, that I more fully understand what it is to be tribal. Now, I'm not going to make Standing Rock about my personal journey, but rather use this opportunity to express how wrong it's been for so long, and do my best to not incite any bigotry and lay down my own. Standing Rock is by far not the first battle of the Great Plains, but it should be the last, and for the first time in American history, the side of greed should not win.
These brave souls of Standing Rock want more for their children and are willing to fight for that. They haven't sold out to the ridiculous notion many of us of indigenous ancestry did. For so many of us, our thinking was, "to try to give our kids everything we didn't have as kids, and higher public education is the path to success." I was one of those! On top of trying to live by and teach the next generation the mainstream programming, I failed to teach, or set the example of respect of the elders, either. I've been reaping the bitter harvest of that for a number of years, and probably will for the rest of my days.
For the last several months my daughter has called me to discuss nothing but her latest career and big plans to make big money. The call before the last one, was regarding her change of companies. She informed me that she is now working the downtown developments, 'in her element' and she could smell the money . . . This is in Arizona, state of much tribal history and the last territory to be made a state, in the contiguous 48. Now, to our last conversation. She wanted to share in solidarity against the greed of the pipeline, even mentioned that we should go together and stand with them in Standing Rock, since we're tribal, ya know . . . Just a few months ago she was in this area and had conspired with her white grandmother to exclude me from the family gathering and keep her visit a secret from me. Now she wants to go 1000 miles to be "family." I had spent her childhood trying to buy into the corporate capitalism of America, and she has a college degree, worked in banking through the bailout years, and now real estate. But she is against Big Oil . . .
I've contemplated long and hard about what I can actually do. I have ministered both spiritual and natural health to The Nations in Oklahoma. I need to do more, but what? I share the pro-Native American memes on Facebook! Yay me! Being Native American isn't about DNA and bloodlines . . . well it is, but it's so much more. It's spiritual! It's a different lifestyle and culture. It's a respect for our Creator, and a responsibility for creation. It's an appreciation of nature that many of us have lost and certainly failed to teach. These brave souls at Standing Rock are teaching their children what so many of us failed to do. Seems everyone likes to claim a Native heritage as they bustle through their hectic schedule on their way to the next "white culture" appointment or event. America doesn't reflect the culture of Native Americans and that's been a mistake for far too long, hundreds of years too long. As much as I'd like to lay all the blame on white corporate greed, some of the blame lies at the feet of those of us who are Native American, were and are aware that tribal reality is not taught in the public school system, or reported on mainstream media, or represented in Washington, and failed to impart the spirituality of tribal integrity to the next generation.
The biggest change and greatest help I can offer is to boycott any product that is provided by Dakota Access Pipeline Company, but that is going to take some research. The next thing I can do is to offer financial support to these individuals who are courageously taking a stand and have been since April of this year. The third thing I can do is to share and teach the Scriptural spiritual truth of a tribal culture to those who are willing to learn. The last thing I can do is to offer an "heritage" to those who are serious about Scriptural truth and Native endurance.
It's time, also that women stop trying to be equal with men and realize Native American culture is a matriarchal culture. We've lost a lot in that regard. Even the white folk have a saying, "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." So, as a society, we chose to abandon home, hearth, and rocking the cradle for money. This is where we, of Native ancestry would have to set aside bigotry and realize our nation would be greatly benefited if we taught the white people, our way of life. If we could lay the greed aside and truly reach out in peace.
I truly would love to just blame those fat cat, white elitist of Big Oil, but the reality is, we all had a responsibility to teach our children better than we did, and those at Standing Rock are doing just that. In the course of writing this article, it was announced that a judge has ruled against those standing at Standing Rock, then an injunction was put in place to stop construction. The outcome remains to be seen. Those brave hearted people simply do not have the same odds that our ancestors had at Little Big Horn, although; they do have the same values.
I have asked forgiveness for my failings and repented. I pray for the Native Americans, they are my people.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. a Proverb of Holy Scripture
As I've watched the situation at Standing Rock develop, I've been saddened beyond words. This is my first attempt to express what I've been contemplating. I see the courage in those who are standing, and I pray all those who are going in support are truly supportive. What I see in all this, though; is this problem started long before Standing Rock, and as much as I'd like to, I can't lay all the blame on the white man. Being of Native American descent, I've always been proud of my ancestry, but in many ways for several years, it was just a cubbyholed fact of my DNA. I'm blessed to be obviously Native American in my appearance, as I've met a great many blond, blue-eyed folks who claim a Native heritage, but that isn't the point. A part of me, was earthy and spiritual, but it wasn't until our Heavenly Father a.k.a. The Great Spirit healed my mind, that I more fully understand what it is to be tribal. Now, I'm not going to make Standing Rock about my personal journey, but rather use this opportunity to express how wrong it's been for so long, and do my best to not incite any bigotry and lay down my own. Standing Rock is by far not the first battle of the Great Plains, but it should be the last, and for the first time in American history, the side of greed should not win.
These brave souls of Standing Rock want more for their children and are willing to fight for that. They haven't sold out to the ridiculous notion many of us of indigenous ancestry did. For so many of us, our thinking was, "to try to give our kids everything we didn't have as kids, and higher public education is the path to success." I was one of those! On top of trying to live by and teach the next generation the mainstream programming, I failed to teach, or set the example of respect of the elders, either. I've been reaping the bitter harvest of that for a number of years, and probably will for the rest of my days.
For the last several months my daughter has called me to discuss nothing but her latest career and big plans to make big money. The call before the last one, was regarding her change of companies. She informed me that she is now working the downtown developments, 'in her element' and she could smell the money . . . This is in Arizona, state of much tribal history and the last territory to be made a state, in the contiguous 48. Now, to our last conversation. She wanted to share in solidarity against the greed of the pipeline, even mentioned that we should go together and stand with them in Standing Rock, since we're tribal, ya know . . . Just a few months ago she was in this area and had conspired with her white grandmother to exclude me from the family gathering and keep her visit a secret from me. Now she wants to go 1000 miles to be "family." I had spent her childhood trying to buy into the corporate capitalism of America, and she has a college degree, worked in banking through the bailout years, and now real estate. But she is against Big Oil . . .
I've contemplated long and hard about what I can actually do. I have ministered both spiritual and natural health to The Nations in Oklahoma. I need to do more, but what? I share the pro-Native American memes on Facebook! Yay me! Being Native American isn't about DNA and bloodlines . . . well it is, but it's so much more. It's spiritual! It's a different lifestyle and culture. It's a respect for our Creator, and a responsibility for creation. It's an appreciation of nature that many of us have lost and certainly failed to teach. These brave souls at Standing Rock are teaching their children what so many of us failed to do. Seems everyone likes to claim a Native heritage as they bustle through their hectic schedule on their way to the next "white culture" appointment or event. America doesn't reflect the culture of Native Americans and that's been a mistake for far too long, hundreds of years too long. As much as I'd like to lay all the blame on white corporate greed, some of the blame lies at the feet of those of us who are Native American, were and are aware that tribal reality is not taught in the public school system, or reported on mainstream media, or represented in Washington, and failed to impart the spirituality of tribal integrity to the next generation.
The biggest change and greatest help I can offer is to boycott any product that is provided by Dakota Access Pipeline Company, but that is going to take some research. The next thing I can do is to offer financial support to these individuals who are courageously taking a stand and have been since April of this year. The third thing I can do is to share and teach the Scriptural spiritual truth of a tribal culture to those who are willing to learn. The last thing I can do is to offer an "heritage" to those who are serious about Scriptural truth and Native endurance.
It's time, also that women stop trying to be equal with men and realize Native American culture is a matriarchal culture. We've lost a lot in that regard. Even the white folk have a saying, "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." So, as a society, we chose to abandon home, hearth, and rocking the cradle for money. This is where we, of Native ancestry would have to set aside bigotry and realize our nation would be greatly benefited if we taught the white people, our way of life. If we could lay the greed aside and truly reach out in peace.
I truly would love to just blame those fat cat, white elitist of Big Oil, but the reality is, we all had a responsibility to teach our children better than we did, and those at Standing Rock are doing just that. In the course of writing this article, it was announced that a judge has ruled against those standing at Standing Rock, then an injunction was put in place to stop construction. The outcome remains to be seen. Those brave hearted people simply do not have the same odds that our ancestors had at Little Big Horn, although; they do have the same values.
I have asked forgiveness for my failings and repented. I pray for the Native Americans, they are my people.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. a Proverb of Holy Scripture
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
The Tea Party and Socialism
I've always had a feeling that the Tea Party was really created by the politicians, to appear as a grass roots movement of the so called conservative Americans who are against this country's progression toward socialism. I've continued to be amazed at the number of Tea Party members who no longer work, but have an income due to the very thing they stand against . . . "social" security. Yet, I digress. The Tea Party and the Progressives have at least one very strong commonality. Both groups are quite vocal against the traditional republicans . . . thus my suspicion of just where this Tea Party actually originated.
The fact that it is called the Tea Party seemed a dead give away from the beginning. The Boston Tea Party rebels were colonists dressed as Indians throwing tea overboard in rebellion against taxation, but . . . in their "bold stand" they were actually in disguise. When I first came across Wild Bill for America, although he spoke of G-d and country and grassroots, he just so often pointed his viewers to dependence on the system and working within the establishment. He says he was in law enforcement for 20 years. It was easy to see by his demeanor, the blurred line between confidence and arrogance, and he makes no bones about it. I don't actually know if he really is a representative of the Tea Party or just a self-proclaimed spokesman. He name drops frequently, and well, here I am dropping his name, without ever having met him. He speaks with a great deal of authority on a number of topics, but there is always a ring of "programming" to his version of his proclaimed truth.
Wearing his "trademark" cowboy hat while defaming LaVoy Finicum was the confirmation for me. Wild Bill vacillated for a couple of videos then progressed to get down right ugly, claiming it to be truth. You know, even if what he said was truth and none of us really know what happened that day, in Oregon; as there is an ongoing investigation, but a true social conservative simply does not speak ill of the dead. I'm fairly certain, I will not believe the "official report." How long have the voices of the "right" been crying and whining about the Constitution being destroyed, yet did nothing to get behind these ranchers? Wild Bill may be a voice for the Tea Party, but he made the exact same comments the liberals whom he professes to despise, were saying about the situation. I've made no bones about where I stand with the men and women who work the land, and in every conversation, the liberal comments perfectly align with Wild Bill's.
As far as I'm concerned having a donate button on a website is just another kind of socialism. A donate button is hardly a grassroots foundation, nor is it boot strappy at all. If someone is proclaiming the truth, the honest truth, I believe provision will be made without begging, Now that both parties have embraced their version of faith into their politics, and pretty well beaten down any third party options the only solution seems obvious. Create an offshoot of the existing party. We've had the Tea Party still spouting the (R) for a few years. Now, with Bernie Sanders, we'll have the socialist party under the covering of the (D). Both seem the antithesis of true grass roots or revolution.
The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going. a Proverb of Holy Scripture
The fact that it is called the Tea Party seemed a dead give away from the beginning. The Boston Tea Party rebels were colonists dressed as Indians throwing tea overboard in rebellion against taxation, but . . . in their "bold stand" they were actually in disguise. When I first came across Wild Bill for America, although he spoke of G-d and country and grassroots, he just so often pointed his viewers to dependence on the system and working within the establishment. He says he was in law enforcement for 20 years. It was easy to see by his demeanor, the blurred line between confidence and arrogance, and he makes no bones about it. I don't actually know if he really is a representative of the Tea Party or just a self-proclaimed spokesman. He name drops frequently, and well, here I am dropping his name, without ever having met him. He speaks with a great deal of authority on a number of topics, but there is always a ring of "programming" to his version of his proclaimed truth.
Wearing his "trademark" cowboy hat while defaming LaVoy Finicum was the confirmation for me. Wild Bill vacillated for a couple of videos then progressed to get down right ugly, claiming it to be truth. You know, even if what he said was truth and none of us really know what happened that day, in Oregon; as there is an ongoing investigation, but a true social conservative simply does not speak ill of the dead. I'm fairly certain, I will not believe the "official report." How long have the voices of the "right" been crying and whining about the Constitution being destroyed, yet did nothing to get behind these ranchers? Wild Bill may be a voice for the Tea Party, but he made the exact same comments the liberals whom he professes to despise, were saying about the situation. I've made no bones about where I stand with the men and women who work the land, and in every conversation, the liberal comments perfectly align with Wild Bill's.
As far as I'm concerned having a donate button on a website is just another kind of socialism. A donate button is hardly a grassroots foundation, nor is it boot strappy at all. If someone is proclaiming the truth, the honest truth, I believe provision will be made without begging, Now that both parties have embraced their version of faith into their politics, and pretty well beaten down any third party options the only solution seems obvious. Create an offshoot of the existing party. We've had the Tea Party still spouting the (R) for a few years. Now, with Bernie Sanders, we'll have the socialist party under the covering of the (D). Both seem the antithesis of true grass roots or revolution.
The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going. a Proverb of Holy Scripture
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Timing is Everything
The current president of the United States has gotten where he is, leaving the last office before his term expired, and the one before that. I was keeping an eye on the position of Secretary General of the UN last time around, but we ended up with a second term of both the Secretary General in the UN and the same US administration. Now, it's come back around again. I'm not suggesting a conspiracy theory, nor am I offering skepticism. This is not a prophetic claim either, but rather just raising a question about an upcoming time frame.
We know President Obama cannot run again, and it's already clear he isn't. Many are concerned, however; that some sort of emergency situation could suspend the 2016 presidential election, which would keep him in office beyond his term limit. I've not dismissed that thought at all, but I've also toyed with a different perspective. I'm really not sure that it would necessarily involve a conspiracy, but rather simply a "coincidence" of timing and happenstance. Whether that "coincidence" is contrived or coordinated, I cannot say, but we do know a One World Government is prophesied.
Most Americans already believe the President, any President; is a mere puppet of those who place him in office. Some call it a conspiracy, some call it capitalism run amok, and some call it communism creeping in. Perhaps if we all just stood together and quit fighting the red and blue, we'd realize our "so called" republic or democracy is really an aristocracy or oligarchy. The reality is really pretty clear. The US is not so free or independent. I'm not saying I don't love America, I'm just saying the image is different than the reality. Now, back to a thought I've had, and perhaps it's really more of a question.
The US election is November of 2016. Even Wikipedia uses the term "is scheduled for" November 8, 2016. The UN will be selecting a new Secretary General this year, also; as the present term will end December 31, 2016. Wikipedia states that candidates from the Permanent Five Members are not usually considered for the position of Secretary General to avoid a concentration of power, but there is a rumor that President Obama is interested in the position. So, who knows? Barack Obama is such a "trail blazer" it's not difficult to imagine him to be the first Secretary General from one of the Permanent Five Members. Maybe he'll be nominated by another country, entirely. Perhaps this is how the whole "birth certificate" situation will be resolved. In a quick Google search, it is confirmed that Kenya is a member of the UN, yet I digress . . .
In the time frame following the presidential election, however; any number of things could happen. There is a span of about 2 1/2 months from the election to the inauguration. What if Hillary is elected, then charged regarding her emails or Benghazi? I'm certainly not wishing ill upon any candidate, but Bernie Sanders is no spring chicken . . . He'll be 75 before the election even takes place. That is 6 years older than Reagan was when he was elected, and democrats across the country thought he was entirely too old for the job. Donald Trump will turn 70 this summer.
With the large number of republican nominees, they will likely do so much in-party fighting that none of their candidates will remain truly viable. The debates seem to be most successful in convincing the American public to not even consider voting republican. So far they seem to be accomplishing that as well as propelling Trump forward as a "non" republican whom they will not support if he does win the nomination. With a fractured republican party, one of the senior citizen mentioned in the previous paragraph could, in all reality, be our next elected president.
Then there is also the chance that Obama could already win the appointment of UN Secretary General, before the American election has "resulted" in a winner, or even taken place. Say for whatever the reason, President Obama is nominated and appointed to serve as the Secretary General of the UN for the next term, beginning January 1, 2017. If Obama is appointed to the UN and there is some sort of calamity preventing the US presidential election, what happens? If the election does take place as planned, regardless of the candidate elected for President, they will not be inaugurated until January 20, 2017. If President Obama leaves his post for the UN position, that will leave America with President Joe Biden and no VP for 20 days.
Again, not wishing any harm on our elderly candidates, but life past 70 is uncertain anyway, much less in high stress situations. As we already know, a great deal can happen in less time than 20 days! I'm not one to borrow trouble, but in times of such global uncertainty, introducing a situation of national historical precedence does elicit some concern or at least curiosity!
Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. Prophecy of Daniel
We know President Obama cannot run again, and it's already clear he isn't. Many are concerned, however; that some sort of emergency situation could suspend the 2016 presidential election, which would keep him in office beyond his term limit. I've not dismissed that thought at all, but I've also toyed with a different perspective. I'm really not sure that it would necessarily involve a conspiracy, but rather simply a "coincidence" of timing and happenstance. Whether that "coincidence" is contrived or coordinated, I cannot say, but we do know a One World Government is prophesied.
Most Americans already believe the President, any President; is a mere puppet of those who place him in office. Some call it a conspiracy, some call it capitalism run amok, and some call it communism creeping in. Perhaps if we all just stood together and quit fighting the red and blue, we'd realize our "so called" republic or democracy is really an aristocracy or oligarchy. The reality is really pretty clear. The US is not so free or independent. I'm not saying I don't love America, I'm just saying the image is different than the reality. Now, back to a thought I've had, and perhaps it's really more of a question.
The US election is November of 2016. Even Wikipedia uses the term "is scheduled for" November 8, 2016. The UN will be selecting a new Secretary General this year, also; as the present term will end December 31, 2016. Wikipedia states that candidates from the Permanent Five Members are not usually considered for the position of Secretary General to avoid a concentration of power, but there is a rumor that President Obama is interested in the position. So, who knows? Barack Obama is such a "trail blazer" it's not difficult to imagine him to be the first Secretary General from one of the Permanent Five Members. Maybe he'll be nominated by another country, entirely. Perhaps this is how the whole "birth certificate" situation will be resolved. In a quick Google search, it is confirmed that Kenya is a member of the UN, yet I digress . . .
In the time frame following the presidential election, however; any number of things could happen. There is a span of about 2 1/2 months from the election to the inauguration. What if Hillary is elected, then charged regarding her emails or Benghazi? I'm certainly not wishing ill upon any candidate, but Bernie Sanders is no spring chicken . . . He'll be 75 before the election even takes place. That is 6 years older than Reagan was when he was elected, and democrats across the country thought he was entirely too old for the job. Donald Trump will turn 70 this summer.
With the large number of republican nominees, they will likely do so much in-party fighting that none of their candidates will remain truly viable. The debates seem to be most successful in convincing the American public to not even consider voting republican. So far they seem to be accomplishing that as well as propelling Trump forward as a "non" republican whom they will not support if he does win the nomination. With a fractured republican party, one of the senior citizen mentioned in the previous paragraph could, in all reality, be our next elected president.
Then there is also the chance that Obama could already win the appointment of UN Secretary General, before the American election has "resulted" in a winner, or even taken place. Say for whatever the reason, President Obama is nominated and appointed to serve as the Secretary General of the UN for the next term, beginning January 1, 2017. If Obama is appointed to the UN and there is some sort of calamity preventing the US presidential election, what happens? If the election does take place as planned, regardless of the candidate elected for President, they will not be inaugurated until January 20, 2017. If President Obama leaves his post for the UN position, that will leave America with President Joe Biden and no VP for 20 days.
Again, not wishing any harm on our elderly candidates, but life past 70 is uncertain anyway, much less in high stress situations. As we already know, a great deal can happen in less time than 20 days! I'm not one to borrow trouble, but in times of such global uncertainty, introducing a situation of national historical precedence does elicit some concern or at least curiosity!
Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. Prophecy of Daniel
Friday, August 14, 2015
Power and the Political Process
Several years ago in a Bible Study, I heard these words coming out of my own mouth. "I don't know what will change between 2012 and 2016, but 2012 will be the last presidential election as we've known them." Was that prophetic? The answer to that question remains to be seen. It is becoming clearer and clearer, however; that America is no longer life as we knew it back when those words were spoken at the turn of this century. America is not cycling economically and morally, but is on a steady downward spiral. The economic recovery we keep hearing about, is Wall Street and Big Corporate, not every day mainstream America. As a matter of fact, many who are considered everyday mainstream America can hardly afford groceries. There are reportedly between 45 and 46 million Americans dependent upon SNAP, which is approximately 15% of the population.
There are still entirely too many Americans who believe the "right" man or woman chosen to reside at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue can turn this country around. That is simply not the case. Consistently, the newly elected occupant of the White House spends the first two years of their first term making sure the entire country knows what a mess the last guy left. Then he spends the next two years of his first term telling us he needs four more years to get us on track and makes new promises for the future. What is really amazing about America's political system are the spin doctors. The incumbent can actually tell us what a mess he walked into, why he hasn't been able to keep his campaign promises, while also telling us what a great job he's doing. All the while, we look around mainstreet seeing shuttered businesses and watch the price of groceries increase consistently.
As we watch the GOP tear each other to shreds, and the supposed "fair and balanced" FoxNews shape the mindset of their viewers, we tend to forget the real results of this staged choreography. The people are being divided. The empire, and that's what this is, best rules the subjects when we "unite" to be divided. The process is quite serpentine, which makes it all the more troubling on a spiritual level. First, a large number of our population actually believes our Creator is all for a federal republic style of governing. The insistence to have "IN GOD WE TRUST" on money and police cars may sound righteous, but Messiah made the point of explaining the separation of government and G-d, using a coin to do so. Most of this same section of the population believes G-d's laws to be bondage, while America's thousands and thousands of laws are freedom. That is a serious misnomer.
There is a serious disconnect that is serving to categorize and divide us, and much of it seems to be based in anger and fear, while both parties reference Biblical "concepts out of context" to persuade the public. It would seem that most Americans actually place their vote, of course, by the letter behind the name, but it's not usually "for" a candidate as much as it's against the other candidate. Americans just don't really trust politicians. We all know that! We openly accept that most campaign promises will never become policy. There is a huge disconnect between the words of "Candidate Whomever" and "President Whomever," and it is invariably the fault of Congress and the last guy. Leadership, true leadership, doesn't look to lay blame, it looks to move forward.
Voting "against" the wrong candidate is a lot like pushing a rope or log chain. You just don't get much accomplished. I think Jeb Bush is just too much a part of the power process to be nominated, and it seems sad if the democrats really do believe Hillary is the best they can do. It just seems the voters are getting played on that one. Donald Trump is making waves and being noticed, but the election is still over a year away. To maintain front runner status in a crowd this size until next November is highly unlikely, but maybe that will be what sets 2016 apart. To elect a man that is not a politician and possesses no diplomacy will certainly make for a new America . . . Then again, an outbreak of some plague, could result in Dr. Ben Carson being forgiven for his mandatory vaccination statement. Dr. Carson is also not a career politician. Even if the anger subsides, Americans are tired of the ineptness of Washington DC and would like a candidate they actually believe in, and therein lies the problem.
I'm going to get preachy, here. It is time to separate our religious beliefs from our government, because all the non-Biblical beliefs are getting minority preferential treatment. America is not a Christian nation, it is federal republic with a foundation of freedom of religion and religious expression. I think Bible believers should stop compromising and insisting that unbelievers live as we do. We need to separate and be the peacemaking counter-culture Messiah and his disciples were. If everyone who truly claims to place their faith in YHWH placed all their dependency and purpose in Him, and stopped being dependent upon the government, we'd see change. In my lifetime, our government has moved into the position of Pharaoh in just about every aspect of our lives and we can all read how that turned out . . . slavery. The direction hasn't suddenly changed in the last few years, it's just become more apparent. I always include a Bible verse at the end of the blog, but today, I'm also going to include a quote that brings some perspective the direction this country is going and how long it's been heading this direction.
We've practically elevated our government to godlike status and the "right" politician as a savior.
. . . 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 YHWH. History in Holy Scripture
There are still entirely too many Americans who believe the "right" man or woman chosen to reside at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue can turn this country around. That is simply not the case. Consistently, the newly elected occupant of the White House spends the first two years of their first term making sure the entire country knows what a mess the last guy left. Then he spends the next two years of his first term telling us he needs four more years to get us on track and makes new promises for the future. What is really amazing about America's political system are the spin doctors. The incumbent can actually tell us what a mess he walked into, why he hasn't been able to keep his campaign promises, while also telling us what a great job he's doing. All the while, we look around mainstreet seeing shuttered businesses and watch the price of groceries increase consistently.
As we watch the GOP tear each other to shreds, and the supposed "fair and balanced" FoxNews shape the mindset of their viewers, we tend to forget the real results of this staged choreography. The people are being divided. The empire, and that's what this is, best rules the subjects when we "unite" to be divided. The process is quite serpentine, which makes it all the more troubling on a spiritual level. First, a large number of our population actually believes our Creator is all for a federal republic style of governing. The insistence to have "IN GOD WE TRUST" on money and police cars may sound righteous, but Messiah made the point of explaining the separation of government and G-d, using a coin to do so. Most of this same section of the population believes G-d's laws to be bondage, while America's thousands and thousands of laws are freedom. That is a serious misnomer.
There is a serious disconnect that is serving to categorize and divide us, and much of it seems to be based in anger and fear, while both parties reference Biblical "concepts out of context" to persuade the public. It would seem that most Americans actually place their vote, of course, by the letter behind the name, but it's not usually "for" a candidate as much as it's against the other candidate. Americans just don't really trust politicians. We all know that! We openly accept that most campaign promises will never become policy. There is a huge disconnect between the words of "Candidate Whomever" and "President Whomever," and it is invariably the fault of Congress and the last guy. Leadership, true leadership, doesn't look to lay blame, it looks to move forward.
Voting "against" the wrong candidate is a lot like pushing a rope or log chain. You just don't get much accomplished. I think Jeb Bush is just too much a part of the power process to be nominated, and it seems sad if the democrats really do believe Hillary is the best they can do. It just seems the voters are getting played on that one. Donald Trump is making waves and being noticed, but the election is still over a year away. To maintain front runner status in a crowd this size until next November is highly unlikely, but maybe that will be what sets 2016 apart. To elect a man that is not a politician and possesses no diplomacy will certainly make for a new America . . . Then again, an outbreak of some plague, could result in Dr. Ben Carson being forgiven for his mandatory vaccination statement. Dr. Carson is also not a career politician. Even if the anger subsides, Americans are tired of the ineptness of Washington DC and would like a candidate they actually believe in, and therein lies the problem.
I'm going to get preachy, here. It is time to separate our religious beliefs from our government, because all the non-Biblical beliefs are getting minority preferential treatment. America is not a Christian nation, it is federal republic with a foundation of freedom of religion and religious expression. I think Bible believers should stop compromising and insisting that unbelievers live as we do. We need to separate and be the peacemaking counter-culture Messiah and his disciples were. If everyone who truly claims to place their faith in YHWH placed all their dependency and purpose in Him, and stopped being dependent upon the government, we'd see change. In my lifetime, our government has moved into the position of Pharaoh in just about every aspect of our lives and we can all read how that turned out . . . slavery. The direction hasn't suddenly changed in the last few years, it's just become more apparent. I always include a Bible verse at the end of the blog, but today, I'm also going to include a quote that brings some perspective the direction this country is going and how long it's been heading this direction.
“If voting made any difference they wouldn't let us do it.” Mark Twain
We've practically elevated our government to godlike status and the "right" politician as a savior.
. . . 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 YHWH. History in Holy Scripture
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Is a Crisis in the Making?
Is there anything in America that isn't causing fear and division right now? Particularly troubling, are the political loyalists. As I read the articles from mainstream sources and read the comments presented by the party loyalty I'm troubled. Whether the topic is Gay Rights or Jade Helm, the democrats sound exactly like the republicans did when the USA Patriot Act was passed without question in light of 9/11, which now raises questions in and of itself.
Let's take a brief walk down memory lane since 9/11. With the USA Patriot Act came TSA and two wars, not to mention a serious and further distrust along party lines, not between the "officials" but amidst "we the people." There is also the fact that the group of folks in Washington who used to be called public servants are now referred to as elected officials. It may seem insignificant and only semantics, but the subliminal inference is astounding when one considers the future generations are being programmed. If I had a dollar for every time I heard a republican say to me in regard to my negativity about the USA Patriot Act, "If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about." I truly did laugh at those same people when the party of administration changed and "invaded their privacy." Well, not really laugh, because sadly whether or not either party loyalists wake up, we are all on the same sinking ship.
Moving right along to this latest attempt to make "the other party" feel conspiranoid has now changed sides. Mainstream news sources are trying to make the Texas Governor sound like a paranoid nut over Operation Jade Helm 15. When you consider this "Operation" is taking place in 9 states, while also knowing the factor in military equipment was brought into Missouri, and Maryland, over racial tension, and New York has buried two officers in a week. Now reading that big equipment has been spotted in New Hampshire and the BLM is still in Nevada and covering parts of the great North West. The midwest will be, once again, in federal emergency condition with storm destruction. Factor in, the big chicken kill in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa, and the questionable legal controversies in Michigan, the Governor of Texas just may have cause for concern.
I could resolve the disgust with the last administration and party followers by simply letting my Passport expire and learning to live below the poverty level to avoid funding ridiculous wars. The fact that Americans having a bad day actually being shot and killed by TSA is horrific in and of itself. Then factor in humiliating the elderly over their depends and invasively groping small children in ways that are abhorrent. I don't know if the decision to stop traveling after my underwires caused my breasts to be targeted by TSA was an act of dissidence or rebellion, but it was the line the sand. I'd been half way around the world, including the Middle East and never faced the ridiculous procedures I did at KCI or MCI; . . . whatever it's called. I can't get on the plane with underwires, but there are footwashing stations, now, in that same airport to accommodate the Muslims. This alone, caused me to truly doubt that TSA is about security after 9/11. And NO, that is not Islamophobia, I'm well aware of the goal of Islam. It caused me reason to question our government!
The point is, there are ways around TSA; by simply avoiding the airport and railroad. I don't know how to avoid an infiltration on American soil by our own military. When I consider the number of states already in some sort of potential crisis, I'm troubled, and even more so, realizing there is no way to avoid it. I'm here, I live here, but I'm apparently in the minority in that I value freedom more than safety. Ben Franklin is credited with the following, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
We certainly can't forget the landmark decision expected from the Supreme Court next month regarding the gay agenda. That topic always gets feathers ruffled from a number of directions. Meanwhile we're told that there are ISIS camps scattered throughout the nation. Which party's security system let them in? How did they all get passed TSA? I know the party of TSA would say they came in through the border. If they were coming in through the border, why the footwashing stations at the airport? Is it just me or does it seem like this is all being strategically choreographed? I just see something in the making that will forever and severely alter this nation, and not for the better.
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: a Proverb of Holy Scripture
Let's take a brief walk down memory lane since 9/11. With the USA Patriot Act came TSA and two wars, not to mention a serious and further distrust along party lines, not between the "officials" but amidst "we the people." There is also the fact that the group of folks in Washington who used to be called public servants are now referred to as elected officials. It may seem insignificant and only semantics, but the subliminal inference is astounding when one considers the future generations are being programmed. If I had a dollar for every time I heard a republican say to me in regard to my negativity about the USA Patriot Act, "If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about." I truly did laugh at those same people when the party of administration changed and "invaded their privacy." Well, not really laugh, because sadly whether or not either party loyalists wake up, we are all on the same sinking ship.
Moving right along to this latest attempt to make "the other party" feel conspiranoid has now changed sides. Mainstream news sources are trying to make the Texas Governor sound like a paranoid nut over Operation Jade Helm 15. When you consider this "Operation" is taking place in 9 states, while also knowing the factor in military equipment was brought into Missouri, and Maryland, over racial tension, and New York has buried two officers in a week. Now reading that big equipment has been spotted in New Hampshire and the BLM is still in Nevada and covering parts of the great North West. The midwest will be, once again, in federal emergency condition with storm destruction. Factor in, the big chicken kill in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa, and the questionable legal controversies in Michigan, the Governor of Texas just may have cause for concern.
I could resolve the disgust with the last administration and party followers by simply letting my Passport expire and learning to live below the poverty level to avoid funding ridiculous wars. The fact that Americans having a bad day actually being shot and killed by TSA is horrific in and of itself. Then factor in humiliating the elderly over their depends and invasively groping small children in ways that are abhorrent. I don't know if the decision to stop traveling after my underwires caused my breasts to be targeted by TSA was an act of dissidence or rebellion, but it was the line the sand. I'd been half way around the world, including the Middle East and never faced the ridiculous procedures I did at KCI or MCI; . . . whatever it's called. I can't get on the plane with underwires, but there are footwashing stations, now, in that same airport to accommodate the Muslims. This alone, caused me to truly doubt that TSA is about security after 9/11. And NO, that is not Islamophobia, I'm well aware of the goal of Islam. It caused me reason to question our government!
The point is, there are ways around TSA; by simply avoiding the airport and railroad. I don't know how to avoid an infiltration on American soil by our own military. When I consider the number of states already in some sort of potential crisis, I'm troubled, and even more so, realizing there is no way to avoid it. I'm here, I live here, but I'm apparently in the minority in that I value freedom more than safety. Ben Franklin is credited with the following, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: a Proverb of Holy Scripture
Sunday, September 28, 2014
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
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
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