What If We Followed Our Own Advice?

They used to call that "practicing what ya preached." I've been reading that Dr. Rice is telling Israel how it needs to be, and making some pretty strong statements regarding the American administration's expectations. I mean, really, her boss is out in about 15 months and his vision or dream just isn't coming to fruition in the Middle East, so she's going to get things moving. Now, I realize America would never admit this, but in all the stories about this, it seems she is indicating that Israel is being held responsible for the lack of progress in President Bush's Roadmap to Peace. Isn't that the typical, age old "blame the Jews" that has always run rampant in the world? And now America is doing it, too, only in a more difficult way to identify as such . . . Anyway, I read that Condi is going to be dealing with all those concerned this week and one more time before the big Annapolis Summit that is one month from today. So this is a high pressure deal and the big prize seems to be turning Jerusalem into Berlin. Half for Israel and half for Palestine. Since the religious right can't seem to see the handwriting on the wall, let's bring this same strategy closer to home.
Americans are up in arms about all the illegals from Mexico that don't have to leave and now can't be employed without getting the employers in trouble, so they'll have no choice but welfare and charity agencies. Just as Israel gained the territory in question in the Six Day war, we "won" Texas from Mexico. President Bush is convinced that Israel's land concession will resolve the conflict of the Middle East. Why not give the same concept the same confidence here? So, let's take our own advice and just give Texas back for the illegals to inhabit. Say, there would be an added benefit to giving Texas back, we'd not have any more Presidents from that state.
But let every man prove his own work . . . New Testament

So . . . What's Going On, Behind the Diversion?

I am not the usual conservative talk radio fan. As a matter of fact, I do not consider myself a political conservative at all. I like to listen to see the direction the pundits are leading the sheeple. I've really been tickled at the number of pundits and the number of times I've heard these conservative spokespersons proclaim their jealousy of Rush and also claim to be in competition with him. I truly didn't want to blog about this topic because I just don't want to give Rush any more of the attention he seems to so desperately seek. And I'm certainly not going to mention the covetous pundits talking about him and giving him mention on their shows or through their interviews. That move, in and of itself, just screams "staged" to me. When the pundits give something attention, it's to draw our focus. Anyway, when the regime and the spokespersons put themselves out on the limb this far, I just have to wonder what is going on behind the scenes. Does this diversion have anything to do with Bush trying to stop an execution in Texas based upon International Law? Do the Bush followers know he gives such credence to the International Court? Oh, I'm sure any one of them could explain this special concern and support his decision. This guy was the governor of Capital Punishment Central; Texas. He did commute an execution in an interesting situation, and did not grant clemency in another that one would think would have moved him. So, I know his followers can explain the "logic" but those of us that aren't brainwashed are wondering. I still don't know why conservatives with their "values" hold Mr. Limbaugh in such esteem, or Mr. Bush for that matter, but they do and I would like to know what this latest situation is about. And for the sake of sanity why in the world the democrats are chasing this bait . . . None of us want to see anyone lose free speech, even Rush Limbaugh, but why the dems are making such a "federal case" of this, I just don't know. I want to know what else is going on. Is it the Texas deal or is there even more going on behind the scenes? Is this to keep the evangelicals diverted from the fact that the Roadmap to Peace involves Israel giving half of Jerusalem to the PA? I want to know what we're not hearing and not being told. And I want to know why both parties are participating.
Let no man deceive you with vain words: New Testament

Legislators . . .

Well, I'm going to sit back with the democrats and watch the republicans sweat and scramble over Larry Craig. I just don't understand him at all, and I really don't care if he's gay or he isn't. What concerns me is his apparent desire for preferential treatment and the fact that he has now decided to go back on his word. Who in the world does he think he is? Oh, that's right a United States Senator! Isn't that what he told the arresting officer? I still take issue with the fact that in the age of this supposed fight on terrorism, two people that were off their meds have been killed in an airport, a woman had to take her bra off to go into an Idaho courthouse, and cops have time to hang out in the bathroom and learn the lewd hand signals. Do any of these scenarios, make anybody feel safer from terrorism? So, Mr. Craig has been a part of the body of government that makes and determines the laws, we citizens must abide by, for over 25 years between the House and Senate, and he doesn't understand about guilty and not guilty? Please . . . Then he promises to step down, then he backs up and says perhaps he'll stay if he can withdraw his guilty plea, then a judge says, no way, you already pled, and he's going to stay anyway. Well, so much for thinking a politician will keep his word, and he's not even campaigning. He's not even willing to keep a non-campaign promise. I'd really like to know just how many bills became law that this man sponsored. It does kind of make me wonder how much legislation and how many values standards he has set for the rest of us, that he would expect special treatment in his own case. It will be interesting to see how the republicans weather this . . . or is this just one more piece of the puzzle in the "conspiracy theory" to throw the 2008 elections???
A prudent man foreseeth the evil . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Dems Duped By Limbaugh

I'll make this as short and simple as possible. If the democrats actually succeed at some sort of legislation against Rush Limbaugh ranting and raving and spouting whatever, we all lose our free speech, which is what the Republicans already want. I don't agree with Rush about anything that I can think of right now, but he does have the right to speak, and considering the fact that he has sponsors, he obviously has people listening. So what if he did say something questionable, it's certainly not the first time that he has chosen to be shocking or controversial. Democrats, you have a chance to get the strategic upper hand with this health bill, don't do the republicans' dirty work by destroying the First Amendment!
Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Peace and Safety

I think I am just sick of hearing about Peace in the Middle East that will be won by war. How does anyone in their right mind figure death and destruction are precursors to tranquility, other than by occupation and oppression?
And I absolutely cannot express how disgusted I am by the airlines and airport security. I know it isn't right to wish evil upon anyone, but they are so deserving of the bankruptcies and losses that they are experiencing. There is no business in the world that treats its customers like airline passengers get treated and stay in business, with the possible exception of doctors. And just how safe are we now that Airport Security is killing sick people, and talk radio blames the victim.
Don't kid yourself. This is about controlling us, not fighting terrorism, and they are going to control us with fear and authority. Anyone that would dare speak out against the present regime (I mean administration) regarding the Middle East is assumed to have links to alQaida, and should fear the label of enemy combatant. I, personally, don't think disagreeing with this madness necessitates or proves alliance with a terrorist organization. I, personally, think it simply demonstrates discernment, which is horribly lacking in the supporters of the present administration.
Now, on to the airports. They are delaying, detaining, and killing American citizens, all for the presumed propaganda of safety, and lets not forget about the new dress codes that are being enforced to fly the unfriendly skies. Remember when the term stewardess was synonymous with sex symbol? I think with age and weight discrimination issues, it's just a matter of certain people with some assumed authority, perhaps having issues! Let's face it, some of the modern flight attendants are no match for a Hooter's waitress. But that is mere trivia compared to the fact that two people that we are aware of, have actually be killed in the name of airport security, and both of those people apparently had health issues. It's enough of a travesty that some coroner is willing to put his name and professional reputation on the line to say the cause of death was inconclusive, but there were signs of struggle, in the last case. If that were any other type of case, "signs of struggle" would be presursor to filing some sort of manslaughter or murder charges. I just don't know of too many doctors, undertakers, or politicians that admit to "not knowing" something they were contracted to determine. So what gives? And how long do we tolerate this insanity.
George W. Bush's Road Map to Peace will not bring peace to the Middle East. Regardless of what his followers believe, George W. Bush is not the Messiah.
And the airlines, that are now exercising their assumed authority over weary travelers may just find themselves to be at the mercy of the government that keeps bailing them out. Then they will find themselves dealing with what we have had to endure, dealing with them.
I just truly hope that very soon Americans will realize, there is no reason for more Americans to die for peace and safety.
For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them . . . New Testament

My Personal View

I don't use medicine, I don't take prescriptions. I haven't had so much as a Tylenol in my home for years, but I am really considering supporting the candidate that wants to bring America, socialized medicine. I already pay a ton of taxes for things I don't use, and several Americans live and die believing in modern medicine, so I'd rather pay my taxes and let the powers that be "provide" for everyone, rather than to have to deal with more legislation that requires me to provide for myself, something I don't want. For the life of me, I can't understand why all these republican grandmas don't want the same valuable health care for their grandchildren, that they demand at a cost to their taxpaying children. Why not have medicare for everyone? Why are they so verbally and politically opposed to governmental provided health care, when that is what they have? Or, could it be, they fear that if everyone had their health coverage, they couldn't spend every other afternoon in some doctor's office? Could it be that they would actually have to make an appointment in advance and not use all of this medicare appointed funding all to themselves for self diagnosis and access to more pharmaceuticals? I will let you know which candidate tells me, American medical coverage will not be legislated to be provided by the small business man or the individual families just struggling to survive, while the insurance "fat cats" get wealthier . . . I will let you know which candidate plans to use their power to provide for all that want it, the same benefits afforded Congress, Senate, and seniors!
A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things. Holy Scripture

A Pet Peeve of Mine

I have, for some time, wanted to blog about disability in the United States, or rather, the vast number of individuals that feel they are too ill or infirm to earn a wage, but . . .
And I will cover that topic very soon, but today, I have a bone to pick with Dr. Bill Bennett. I noticed this last week when he had yet another "song contest." I can't even remember what the last one was, I think about Sandy Berger, when the Libby deal was going on, and this time it is focused on President Ahmadinejad. I would think the former Secretary of Education wouldn't be encouraging playground bully behavior, and it truly offends me. I don't understand why a teacher would play the diversion game between Berger and Libby, and I certainly don't understand why he wants his listeners to participate in such juvenile antics. I really thought he wanted to appeal to a more sophisticated or educated crowd than say Rush Limbaugh and Bill O'Reilly. Let's consider the facts for just a moment. Dr. Bill is on first thing in the morning, he's addressing the movers and the shakers. His target audience would be those with some place to be, I would think. I have always guessed his target audience to be members of the professional work force getting ready and driving, whereas Limbaugh and O'Reilly are on in the middle of the day, when their audience, is either supposed to be giving their attention to the responsibilities of employment, or don't have to worry about employment for one reason or another. I expect Limbaugh and O'Reilly to strive to keep their audience stirred about something, but I just expect Dr. Bill to appeal to our logic, and this "mean, ugly song contest" just reeks of rude immaturity. What would the Secretary of Education think of parents who teach their children to make up ugly songs about someone they don't like? What is going to happen when some child of one of these "lyricists" goes to school and repeats all that to a brown skinned child? Why would all the political influence in our country continue to feed the concept of rude Americans and continue to fuel the divisiveness between hatred and tolerance? Why does the anamosity of the conservatives have to be as outrageously illogical as the so-called tolerance of the liberals?
I really am not at all impressed by the name calling on Talk Radio and I find these juvenile "mean songs" just embarrassing.
A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Hillary's Health Plan or George's War

First let me say, Hillary is not yet President, so this health plan that Congress wants more money for, is already in place, and we all know her health plan failed years ago, so Talk Radio, quit rabble rousing. Oh, that's right, that's what Talk Radio does! George's War, on the other hand has once again run short of funding. I think this George Bush rhetoric is getting just ridiculous. I know two people that are great Bush fans that wouldn't be funding all my stupid ideas. As a matter of fact, when I was a kid and even a young adult, okay, even now my parents, especially my mother who is a devout Bush fan . . . still mentions things like "don't bite off more than you can chew" and "consider the cost." Well, I wish all the Bush fans would share their wisdom with their leader. And really, when it comes down to it, it's all about money, anyway. You are never going to convince me that Hillary cares about my individual health needs. Didn't Bill go elsewhere to have his personal needs met? And we all know the Bush wars, now, even have the democrat candidates unable or afraid to promise the troops will be home by 2013. Here is what I think is going to keep happening while Bush rides out his lame duck term and Congress tries to look like a force to be reckoned with, when we all know, they are just politicians wanting to be re-elected. I think it's hysterical that Congress continues to use phrases like "no more blank checks" and "we aren't just going to rubber stamp it." They say that and they mean that, because so far, Bush has gotten everything he's demanded and their non-compliance has been to attach spending bills that Bush claims to not want. Hey, it's still our tax dollars getting abused and whether it's a never ending war that we are financing or more health care for our kids, either way, either party, our government has already taken control of the children's future.
It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Y'shuah . . . New Testament

21st Century Moccasins

I don't usually promote a product or a specific name brand, but like all people, this particular topic is close to home and singles my ethnicity out for special treatment, so I'm setting aside politics and cynicism for today to say, "Go NIKE!" Nike has designed a shoe for the Native American, and offering them at wholesale costs on the reservations. I think that is just great! A shoe manufacturer has realized what my dad and I have known all along. The foot of the Native American tends to be wider and higher, on average, than most other nationalities and groups. I remember as a kid having to wear such ugly "clod hoppers" because I had a wide foot and a high instep and arch. I realized by junior high that the cowboys wore boots and the Indians wore moccasins because there was just no getting my foot in and out of boots without a zipper! Along the way, I soon discovered that moccasins and sandals were the footwear of my choice, yet barefoot was and still is, best of all. I went through my phase of a different pair of shoes for every outfit, because shoes were so uncomfortable and I wore them so "hard," I tried to never have to wear the same pair consecutively. Now at the threshold of 50, my shoe wardrobe consists of moccasins and sandals, and one pair of zippered boots for chores in winter. For my wedding, I created an illusion of shoes by designing ribbons to wind around my feet and tie at the ankle, so my feet were technically not bare, yet I didn't have to deal with miserably fitted shoes for the ceremony and reception.
I think it's great in this age of social tolerance and racial equality; that if we can't have our land back, the buffalo herds can no longer roam freely, the teepee has been replaced by housing of the Department of Interiors, and shirt and shoes are required, thanks to NIKE, we Native Americans can now, at least, stand comfortably in the established culture.
Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Free Speech Affords Us the Freedom to Listen

I don't agree with President Ahmadinejad, but then again, on most issues, I don't agree with President Bush. I guess my question is: If I truly thought someone was "off the beam . . ." Wouldn't it make sense to listen to their ramblings and rants and potential threats? We already know from our own American history in the past 6 years, just how many emotional issues have been made into policy and how many "rants" have become the foundation for changing the laws of America and disregarding or reinferring the results doesn't really change the facts. So when we listen to the rants, we at least know the intent and direction for which to prepare. And sometimes when you keep someone talking, it keeps them from taking action . . .

Since I believe the Scripture that states " we reap what we sow." I am absolutely in favor of allowing and legislating freedom. I listen to the older conservatives as they seem to want to choose bondage for the rest of us, while enjoying their own freedom or realizing many of them do, in fact, enjoy bondage and fear. See, nobody is going to admit their own desires or agenda for others.

I happen to believe, as powerless as Amadinejad is, we need to be aware of what Iran's Ayatollah is up to, as he is the one with the power.

I don't agree with Ahmadinejad, but I do like knowing what he's thinking, just in case the Ayatollah allows him to establish some of Iran's direction. What if, without free speech made available in America, Ahmadinejad had to resort to tapes and videos, like the strategically timed videos from binLaden? What if we realized that often times the best way to remain aware of what an "enemy" is doing is to listen to the lunatics? We do when they are "home grown" making all sorts of predictions that we, the people will have to pay for." If we are going to participate globally, as our leader wants, then we must include the global voices that want to be heard, even when we disagree with them; especially when we disagree with them or perceive them to be threatening. I am getting more and more convinced that free speech, regardless of the origin or political spectrum, gives insight into what must be considered in the global direction, all leaders seem to want to lead us toward.
. . . and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. the Revelation . . . New Testament

In the News

Well, today has been a busy day! The UAW has declared a strike, and President Ahmadinejad spoke in America at Columbia University. And somehow, I just feel that the real point and issue has been lost in both of these headline grabbing events.
What I noticed?
First, the 73,000 UAW members that walked off the job is nowhere near the number of members just a few short years ago. I read that the main concern is health care for the pension collectors. The information I read indicated there was over 300,000 retired workers collecting retirement and needing health care. Look at the figures, alone. There are far fewer people working than there are collecting. Oh, I know, the words of all the retirees. "I paid into it." Well, when you paid into it, there were more workers than retirees and people didn't live so long, requiring so much medical coverage. So, technically, the circumstances that the present retirees want covered, didn't even exist when they were working, but . . . there's no telling them that, so I hope the "strikers" aren't out too long, because they are nowhere near what they used to be. A union over 1 million strong. Those were the old days.
Now let's address this little wild man from Iran, President Ahmadinejad. We should remember from the Tehran embassy capture in the seventies, that a president doesn't have much power in Iran. The power belongs to the Ayatollah, and we know that. He has said some outrageous things, but one thing really hit me. He said Israel would be wiped off the map without violence and I have been concerned about that very thing. The Roadmap to Peace guarantees that Israel loses it's presence by concession of the land and that wasn't the plan of President Ahmadinejad, but from the mind of President Bush. I have a difficult time looking at and listening to Ahmadinejad make outrageous comments, but I also have great difficulty listening to talk radio and even the present administration, as they give this little bully, who sounds so similar; so much attention, knowing he's not the power in Iran.
So what gives?
I've read about two major "power plays" in the news today, and the reality is: there is no power in the statement being made by these power plays? So, while we are all watching the GM workers strike and listening to every negative commentary about Ahmadinejad, I have to wonder . . . What is really going on, where the power lies?
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: Holy Scripture

The Talk Doesn't Match The Information

It's been awhile since I've talked about talk radio, so it's time. I'm going to make this short today, as Yom Kippur begins an hour before sunset and I am not yet prepared, so here's what I have to say about what talk radio is talking about.
I listened to Dr. Bill's interview this morning with a man that was his speech writer when Dr. Bill was Education Secretary for President Reagan. First it was fun to listen to the "alumni" list and realize how many of them are still in republican politics today, only they have higher positions. It was as if, many of them just took an eight year break to go into the corporate world, then right back to power in Washington. Anyway, these two gentlemen began discussing the breakdown of the American family, yet the "crime rate has declined." They determined that the crime rate has possibly declined because there are so many more people in prison. I was wondering if they read the same headlines I do. But then, I realized, our government is fighting crime by pre-emptive arrests. You know, they can now prevent crime by arresting for intent. So, I keep reading all the arrest headlines, but there's less crime. So, our brilliant, powerful government is just arresting and imprisoning people to prevent crime?
Next through the news I got to hear about how our President just isn't getting noticed properly for our strengthened economy . . . What strengthened economy? Guys that used to assemble cars for $18.00 an hour are now working the produce section in the super market for $6.50, and he can't have 40 hours a week or overtime , because there's another guy that's got the same position, so full time is now 28-32 hours. Keeps everyone off of the unemployment role so those statics look good. Home foreclosures are at an all time high and you might be thinking, yes, but most of those people shouldn't have qualified to begin with. And I would agree, but then selling all those homes with shaky mortgages is what helped fuel this "strong economy" just a couple of years ago! Oh, by the way, the dollar has sunk to an all time low up next to other currency now, too. Strong economy? Don't forget all the recalls? Are the jobs to process all the returns, counted in this strong economy and employment stats?
I have to address one more topic, just because it's been on my mind for ages and some of these blogs have eluded to it, but I really think there may be some validity to my republican conspiracy theory. I think the republicans want Hillary in the White House. There is no clear front runner amidst the republicans. I have already heard a religious right leader say he would not vote for Giuliani, even if it was a vote against Hillary, so . . . I just don't think Fred Thompson actually will have much of a platform, he's mostly just presence. Huckabee is conservative, but not far enough out front. Romney has some issues to overcome, and I no longer think it's just a coincidence. I think the republicans want the sweeping victory of the House and Senate two years after Hillary takes office, and everybody knows a President that has to clean up behind a war is a one termer, regardless of party, so, there you have my theory. They are telling us one thing, while the facts seem to indicate otherwise.
A false balance is abomination to YHVH . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

"SMILE" Say Money!

When I was a kid and everyone that got their picture taken was supposed to "smile and say CHEESE," my Grandma used to tell us to SMILE and say Money! I remember her fondly as I read about the new money and SMILE! What's with this deal? New money every time we turn around to avoid counterfeiting??? I couldn't begin to tell you if the currency I receive in change or even for that matter, the currency I offer in payment is legitimately issued by our government or copied by a counterfeiter, and I am a numismatist! How would the average person that hasn't looked at dates and mint marks and details for years, recognize a counterfeit bill? Why, if our government is trying to make currency difficult to copy; continue to change it? It all looks like MONOPOLY money, now!
I am including a link that left me intriqued and questioning . . . http://money.cnn.com/2007/09/20/news/economy/abe_bill.ap/index.htm?cnn=yes
Originally, the five wasn't going to be redesigned. But that decision was reversed once counterfeiters began bleaching $5 notes and printing fake $100 bills with the bleached paper to take advantage of the fact that some of the security features were in the same locations on both notes.
To thwart this particular scam, the government is changing the $5 watermark from one of Lincoln to two separate watermarks featuring the numeral 5. The $100 bill has a watermark with the image of Benjamin Franklin.
The security thread embedded in the $5 bill also has been moved to a different location than the one embedded in the $100 bill.
. . . The next bill to get a makeover will be the $100. It will feature the most advanced safeguard yet, a new security thread composed of 650,000 tiny lenses that will magnify micro-printing on the bills to give the effect of having the images move in the opposite direction than the bill is being moved.
The government is only about one-third of the way through the redesign of the $100 and hopes to have that process completed by this time next year. Extra effort is going into the $100 makeover since this bill represents more than 70 percent of the $776 billion of currency in circulation, two-thirds of which is held overseas.
Why redesign the $5 bill to differentiate between $5 and $100, if the $100 bill is next on the agenda? Why do I, and many others think this really isn't about stopping or controlling counterfeit bills, but rather; about moving towards a cashless society and/or tracking every bill in everyone's pocket or purse?
Show me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar's. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's. New Testament

Who Knew?

Earlier this week or maybe it was last week, an alleged criminal fatally shot a police dog. I think that is a sad situation. I realize these dogs are trained to protect the officer that they work with, as well as simply being loyal animals that are trained to be placed in harm's way. These animals do not choose to wear a badge or carry a gun, but they are working dogs, and they are in a dangerous line of work. So, for the police dog, I am sad, for the officer that was his handler, I am sorry, but what I want to address is something that came as a complete surprise.

I have heard the conservatives gripe about PETA and "those liberals," but it has not been PETA or "those liberals" that have made the decisions that have caught my attention. The decisions of these past few days have been made by a conservative government, and specifically a conservative governor.

First, people wanted to donate puppies, which is nice, but of course the powers that be, didn't want that, because the special dogs were purchased in Europe to the tune of $15,000.00, so the request became, "please send money." Then came the announcement that there would be a memorial service for this dog, and the time and place were publicized for the past few days, and at the end of the public service announcement today, I noted hearing that the $15,000.00 had already been raised and the excess would be donated to "the police dog fund." Now, this started because some well meaning people wanted to give a sad policeman a puppy. We were told the police budget had not included replacing the dog, of course, so now our police department has excess over the budget from the kind hearted already burdened tax payers of this community. But that's not all. Now, please keep in mind there's been no mention of PETA, and I think "liberals" is a bad word in this part of the country, but after all the donations, and the memorial service, our governor; the conservative governor of Missouri granted the request that flags fly at half mast. Again, I'm sorry for the dog, but the reports these last few days asking for money, pretty much indicate these dogs are born and bred to live and die this life, they know nothing else. And I'm sorry for the police officer, dogs are referred to as man's best friend. And I have animals that I trust more than most of the people I know, but really . . . People die every day and the flag remains at the top of the poll. Isn't it just paradoxical that the conservatives are so sure the liberals want animals to have more rights than people, and it is the young conservative governor, with a conservative daddy in Washington, declaring more respect for a dog than most people will get at the time of their death?

And G~d said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over . . . all the earth, and over every thing . . . upon the earth. Torah of Holy Scripture

Petraeus, Politics, and Promises

I could begin this blog with "Not to sound like a skeptic, but . . ." There's really no reason to do that any more. I am skeptical about nearly everything that gets presented to the taxpaying citizens of this country. I read an interesting article in the Opinion Journal by Karl Rove about health care. He tells us how our health should not be in the hands of the government, and yet our government continues to tell us that our safety and well being can be entrusted nowhere else. What gives? I personally think the recent unannounced visit to Iraq by our President, just days before this big September report, was interesting at the very least and not at all coincidental with the meeting in Australia. I think there was a last minute effort on the President's part to compare notes and "reassure." Before General Petraeus even began to give his report, most people were decided in their predetermined, partisan reaction. Democrats called him a mouth piece and the republicans called him a warrior or soldier, until the ad from moveon.org. Then, the republicans were up in arms, making reference to the fact that this ad was a campaign to "kill the messenger." Well, republicans, which is it? How can he be a messenger without being a mouth piece? President Bush is the Commander in Chief, so technically, even generals, especially generals answer to him, and we have a history of the Iraq war to prove it. When generals disagree, it's time to come home and retire, because the war will go on, by order of the Commander in Chief.
So, now we have some vague promise of troop reduction in Iraq in the "not so distant" future. Will the troops be needed in Iran, by then? I do agree with the fact that we cannot announce a departure date, and I applaud the fact that President Bush finally has made a comparison to Viet Nam, with the pull out date and Saigon. Actually there are many parallels between Iraq and Viet Nam, so it's about time he realizes what he's done!
Do I think there will be a troop down sizing? Depends on the politics; not the war, at the time. Iraq made three of 18 benchmarks in July, then suddenly by September there are supposed to be 9 of the 18 accomplished. So, it only took two months to accomplish 6 benchmarks that have been out of reach for over 4 years? Really! If the Iraqi government has accomplished all those benchmarks due to the troop surge, then their government, by definition, would be a military state; armed and protected by another government's military, as their own militia continues to fail.
The simple truth is just painful. We can't just announce a departure date and we really don't have the manpower or the money to continue. Our President has changed his terminology from "victory" to "success." This war is not the will of the people that are stuck paying for it while their children die in it. Many of us were never for this horribly, misguided mess in Iraq, but I for one, realize; there is no way to get our troops home safely by making an announcement of a pull out. That fact was always unaffected by General Petraeus's report.
For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. Torah of Holy Scripture

Socialized Medicine

Hillary, Barack, and John all have our health in the forefront of their campaigns. I have to tell you, though, I really find it hilarious that so many senior citizens are up in arms about all these "liberal democrat's ideas that are nothing but socialism!" Medicare and Social Security are the backbone of any socialist society, and yet American senior citizens just can't understand that. I've made reference before to the system and the uproar from those that are the most benefitted, but I feel that it is high time to truly understand this burden of respect and care that has been thrust upon the working class of America all in the name of tax laws, nationalism, and respect. In 1935, the young generation "respectfully" left the farm and said forget it. Since there was no one to take over the family business of farming, this young heady generation gladly paid a miniscule percentage of their city wages to support their aging country parents. The ratio was 16 workers to 1 recipient, and although the percentages have changed all the way around, many of those original working class are now and have been collecting for over 20 years. So, they should remember the fact that what they were paying in, was not for them to collect. Their parents collected what they contributed so they could go to town! Now, we come to the next generation which is also now collecting, because "they paid into it." Well, apparently "they" weren't listening in school or were absent that day. Social Security was never established for the payor to be building a personal retirement nest egg. Social Security was for the elderly without income, and that was when the work force outnumbered the collections. Then along came Johnson with his "Great Society" plans and medicare was added to the already lucritive pot of reward for living long enough to no longer have to contribute. With medicare added, now the simple formula of collecting 13 Social Security checks could multiply many times over, by extending the life expectancy of the average American. With medicare added, living 13 months after retirement, rapidly turned into 13 years, and beyond. But these people knew, they hadn't really contributed all that money and they knew what they had contributed had already been spent by the previous generation, and they knew they didn't have nearly the number of children that their parents had, and yet . . .
So now, these same people are up in arms because they are just sure that one of those democrats, if elected, plans to implement socialized medicine.
The way I see it, the big concern is not socialized medicine, because the seniors have had it for some time. I don't understand how so many of our nation's seniors can live by the benefits of history's democrats, yet donate and vote against the same political standard that brought so many of their benefits about. Are the senior citizens afraid that socialized medicine would mean they have to share their medicare rights with everyone?
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. New Testament

9/11, Six Years Later

It's been six years since that fateful day, and my heart goes out to those that continue to mourn the loss of loved ones and friends lost in the tragedy of that day. As our nation gathers in various places in remembrance, I find myself taking inventory.
Why has the United States allowed itself to become so divided? If we were right in our response, why hasn't victory truly been declared? Why have we refused to admit we changed our culture in response to 9/11, which was supposedly the stated purpose of the enemy? How do we figure they didn't win, if our Western culture is no longer the same? That day that nearly 3,000 lives were lost, a new direction was founded. We have continued to lose loved ones in military service, our freedom, our hopes, our children's and grandchildren's securities, our trust in our government and our tolerance. I'm not talking about the "pseudo-tolerance" for every group that's making noise, I'm talking about acceptance of others and their differences. I've come to realize when a group of people are motivated by anger, their anger must be maintained to keep them moving. When people are motivated by fear, the fears must get larger and more intense for the people to continue to respond fearfully. And when people are motivated by sorrow or vengeance, every time they are reminded, the wound or determination is fresh again.
In the last six years, theories have been formulated, arguments documented, and debates continue over the actions of this country since the event of 9/11. But everything that is done, continues to divide, rather than unite, and serves to reduce the respect, we, the Western culture, the leader of the free world, once enjoyed and valued.
While our nation's leaders make reference to Osama bin Laden as being in hiding or nearly impotent in power, he continues to have the entire American administration looking under every rock and checking every citizen, or so they tell us that's why they are doing it.
As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Have You Noticed?

It seems that "stands" and convictions and reactions to decisions are decided before the information is actually presented and the data collected. Have you noticed that whatever the news or issue is, the reaction is absolutely only dependant upon the political leaning already embraced by the individual? If a republican has presented an idea, a democrat is automatically opposed simply by virtue of party. If there is a black issue, Oprah and Al Sharpton are automatically involved, regardless. Black hip hop can use racial slur words, but whites cannot and if there is a black person involved, then it simply depends upon which end of the circumstances he or she is standing. I was shocked that Rev. Al thought the judgment against Michael Vick regarding the NFL was too extreme. If Michael Vick were white, Rev. Al would not even have been involved. Has Oprah reached out to the falsely accused Duke lacrosse team members? And we all know that was political. What ever happened to giving a false police report? The woman that accused these athletes has been removed from the responsibility of giving false information, and it's all landed upon the shoulders of the prosecutor. Not to say, he wasn't wrong, but was he the only one in the wrong . . . ?
Aren't you tired of the fact that the "facts" are totally dependant upon the political party, networking connections, or complexion of those presenting the facts? Surely the facts are deeper than that.
Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Powers and Authority

This is going to sound a bit like a sermon today, but then . . . According to the religious right, the interpretation of Romans 13: 1 means that G~D has placed George W. Bush over America, because he is the best leader for this time. Well, Romans 13: 1 doesn't exactly say that, but that's the interpretation, none the less. It does say that leaders are put in place by G~D, and so that makes me wonder. Maybe G~d has allowed George W. Bush to be our leader, because he is the embodyment of the American spirit, arrogant and aggressive. So he best reflects the direction we have chosen. But, by the same token, if George W. Bush is ordained of G~D for his job, then was Saddam Hussein put in place, and is Ahmadinejad also in his position by the same authority? Wow! Does that mean Arafat rose by the same means and what about Osama bin Laden? Does G~D really put all these leaders in place by HIS divine authority, or does he simply allow mankind the freedom to be as mean or dumb as we choose? Or was Paul, in Romans 13: 1, simply telling a congregation that their spiritual leader had authority over them. I guess, this popular interpretation will remain rampant until the second coming, but just one more thought on this appointed and ordained authority. If Romans 13:1 was written to the church in Rome to endorse the authority of the Roman government, we have to realize that was the same government that ordered the death sentence for the Messiah, as well as the author of the book of Romans. So maybe, just maybe, what G~D allows for earthly governmental leadership has nothing to do with HIS definition of righteousness.
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of G~d: the powers that be are ordained of G~d. Romans 13: 1 . . . Come now, and let us reason together . . . Holy Scripture

Republicans

I have to be honest here, I haven't written to any of the republican candidates, yet, but I do have a couple of observations, I'd like to make . . . then I'll ask questions. I've been rather ambivalently interested in Fred Thompson's campaign. He's really economized on the campaign trail with great media coverage, while having not officially thrown his hat in the ring. Very economical strategy, and while the rest of the candidates are spending fortunes and warming up to tear each other apart, he's remained a safe distance. This plan could be a promising strategy. Only time will tell, but he's certainly kept himself from being picked apart in the first six months that the others have "declared" themselves to be fair targets in open season! He's had top coverage with the declared candidates, yet not had to spend "valuable financing" or participate in the "line up comparisons."
Mitt Romney is an interesting individual. Well, actually, I don't know much about him politically, but he's got the same pensive look in his eyes as Franklin and Billy Graham. So, I'm guessing that means his religion is important to him. I have taken a more superficial view of Mitt Romney and his wife. I just personally have this thought that if Ken and Barbie were brought to life, they'd be Mr. and Mrs. Mitt Romney. Sorry, I just don't listen to him with any depth. It seems to me, that to be President of the United States is just next on the list of this man's agenda.
I've been trying to stay aware of Rudy's campaign, I think mostly because he seems a formidable candidate against Hillary, but I have one concern that just will not go away. When I first began to listen to Rudy, I was really considering something I had never considered before. I was thinking of voting republican, but in listening to this man that almost caused me to convert, I have heard a very disconcerting message that he continues to repeat. I have a real problem with a man that is pro-war and pro-gun control, and considers his religion a private matter. It just has a bizarre unbalanced ring to me. I couldn't believe I hadn't recognized this fact sooner. He just truly sounds like the present administration. If he is pro military power, yet pro gun control, we the people are just one step away from losing the right to defend ourselves for our own safety.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of YHVH our G~d. Holy Scripture

Now that Thinking Has Been Declared Illegal . . .

I'm not for a minute, advocating that hatred is acceptable, but . . . I am questioning how it has become acceptable and applaudable that attitude and supposed intent can be prosecuted. I am literally talking about prosecuting something that was said or inferred. Not only has the USA, a.k.a. Babylon the Great, actually prosecuted someone that "was allegedly planning" something, but the present administration of the USA has actually wielded enough superiority and influence, that another country is now legislating "potential crimes" and hateful attitudes. By the way, this country is no stranger to government gone overboard. This country is Germany. A jury in America or Guantanamo has found Jose Padilla, guilty of something that he was not arrested for and has not been held for, but he's guilty for what he supposedly supported and what he thought about doing. He was not found guilty for the alleged "dirty bomb" and the charges were dropped regarding his status as an enemy combatant; yet a jury has still found him guilty of charges that were not even mentioned at the onset of his detainment . . . "Let freedom ring . . ." Everyone that has listened to the news or read the headlines today has been informed that Germany has arrested men that had spoken hatred toward the US and were making "plans" to do something.
Please, people, if there are any that are still thinking and not just getting in line behind the paranoid programming. Our nation has declared it illegal to think about things that "they" claim are dissent. None of these people, on trial or being held, actually committed a crime, because supposedly our government or the German government intercepted "their plans" and saved the world. If you really believe this, then you probably voted for the present administration both times and are nearly despondent that our current President cannot serve yet another term, but for those that are still doing the unthinkable . . . and thinking. What are those of us that disagree going to do with those that have determined not just free speech, but free thought to be subject to allegations that result in potential life sentences and being held without charges and without legal representation? Does the present administration really believe that man can look upon the alleged intent of another man and pass judgment?
for man looketh on the outward appearance, but YHVH looketh on the heart. Holy Scripture

Wait Just a Minute Here

It's time for another update about our candidates and to be fair, I'm going to start receiving info from some of the republicans as well. I don't want to just post reasons to not vote for the three democrat front runners, but this past week, they certainly gave me yet another reason to cast my vote another direction. I read and declined to view the video from the Obama camp about where the Bush government has failed the people and his sentiment regarding "I am my brother's keeper." You know, I just don't feel like being kept. He sounds dangerously similar to the Bush administration regarding our safety and I've just had more than enough of that. I certainly don't want four more years of being "kept for my own good" by the other party!
On to Hillary. She's really got a great thing going. Her husband is making appearances discussing how he is really not involved in the issues of her campaign. Is that not just paradoxically precious? He's on Oprah discussing his non involvement in the political process. And you know, people will fall for that, AGAIN. Hillary made an interesting comment through her week-end stumping. The only way to change the system is from within. RIGHT! When did that ever happen? You get in the system and the system changes you. Does anyone really think Paul Revere or George Washington believed they would change the system from within? Say, what did the slaves get accomplished from within? If I remember my history class correctly, all great change came from revolution and abolition.
Now, I've kind of been drawn to John Edwards, UNTIL . . . he's going to tell us all when to go to the doctor. I realize his wife is battling breast cancer, and she has my sympathy and my heart goes out to his fear, but that doesn't mean he has the right to tell the rest of us when to get a mamogram! He said if we were going to be part of the system, and of course all of our taxes will be raised to accomodate this health plan. But what if some of us are just willing to pay our taxes and decline the "benefit of the system?" I don't believe in using doctors, and I'm not alone on this. Even those that utilize the medical system don't want to be told when and where to go and to be sent. Is he going to take away my freedom of religion to take care of my health?
I don't want to vote republican. So why, is my only choice on the democrat ticket, to be "kept" by Obama, be sent to the doctor by Edwards, or vote for one more woman that's had sex with Bill Clinton?
It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Convoy of Controversy

I've been "hearing in my head" this morning that song in the 70's by C. W. McCall, called "Convoy." Last week, our President interrupted his vacation to meet with the leaders of Mexico and Canada, AGAIN. And of course, just as in 2005, when this pact was being implemented, there are emotionally divisive issues making the headlines. It angered me to no end, that the administration used the life of Terri Schaivo and the heartbreak of her family to make divisive headlines; keeping the North American Union off of the front page, and as a lead news item. And this week we have Alberto's resignation, Hillary's famous fugitive campaign fund contributor turning himself in, another government "salvation" game for the spiraling housing market, the upcoming report from General Patreus on the ever divisive war in Iraq, and Senator Larry Craig. Let me say, right now, you know when half the GOP is ready to sacrifice one of "their own," we the people are in for a rude awakening!
Now, let's discuss these emotional issues that our government likes to dangle in front of us, while "they" are busy tending to the real business, which is trucking and transporation. And we were told the travel ID was for our anti-terrorism protection, Ha! It's ever so much bigger than that. We already know the deal is done with Canada and Mexico. He made the agreement in 2005, it's just a matter of ironing out the details, now, and keeping the American public in the dark until the official unveiling.
So, who will replace Alberto and will Congress keep pounding that old paritsan issue that forced his resignation? What if the President just appoints someone on the next Congressional vacation, like he did with John Bolton to the UN? How many of those "short termed" appointments can he decide? I really don't know, but I'm sure with this precision timing of calls for resignations or "stay the full course," there is something on the books. I personally think the next AG is going to tighten all the controls and tweak all the loopholes in preparation for National ID and our Police State.
Hillary is always going to have some outrageous "something" going on behind the scenes. That's just who the Clintons are. I can name a number of republican pundits that certainly owe thier livelihood and fame, not to mention, wealth, to the Clintons!
As for the housing market. A government has a great deal of power over the people who are dependent for the shelter of their children.
The War in Iraq is still going to be going on when President Bush leaves office or finds a technicality that enables him to stay, but regardless of the report, the troop surge will continue, and we'll be told what they decide we should hear.
As far as Larry Craig is concerned. What a deal. As I read the "signal list" for soliciting lewd behavior, I felt so naive. I wouldn't even know any of those were signals, if I hadn't just read them this week. So, now will we have a new "enlightened" paranoid population in every public restroom, or what? Why does Larry Craig immediately feel the need to inform whom ever he is dealing with that he is not gay? And, frankly, I have a few questions about the airport cop. He has certainly done his homework regarding lewdness in public restrooms, but I thought the airport cops were in there because of the threat of terrorism.
Well, while the pundits beat up the headlines, in the words of C.W. McCall . . . "they" have alredy made the deal with Mexico to "Let Them Truckers Roll."
The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Creating the Crisis

Don't you just know, deep down, that all these errant republicans making the news are distracting sacrifices? . . . Don't you get the feeling with every resignation that something else is really brewing? . . . Isn't it like we are looking at "a show" but what we are seeing, isn't actually the "real deal?" And don't you just know there is another cataclysmic catastrophe around the bend? . . . And don't you just know there is some obscure piece of legislation that will either postpone an election or control it with "new, old" amendments? . . . It seems America has slipped into some strange "beyond the looking glass time warp" and there is just no getting out of it. When I read the headlines, I am reminded of another time and place. I keep thinking of the old days in Al-Anon. Just for the record, different husband, different "life," but the rhetoric and the terms of the organization still resonate. I remember when they told us that "as our significant other" attempted to give up the addiction, there would be times of creating a crisis. Well, since we have a President that is an admitted recovering alcoholic, don't you just wonder? I realize his fan club is in total denial of this, but the AA teachings and the Al Anon support groups do confirm that this is part of the behavior of a recovering alcoholic. I'm wondering just how many of his "following" are "unresolved enablers" or co-dependent. Just how many of the Bush camp would qualify as members of Al Anon with someone in their life? Is anybody else beginning to notice a marked difference between the Bush camp and true conservatives and the rest of the republican party? The Bush fans are no longer the mainstream members of the GOP. And anyone that is reading any news headlines at all is aware that those that claim to be republicans are no longer necessarily traditionally conservative in their "social interactions." That's why we have all this "taking responsibility business." With some of the Bush camp and supporters, "taking responsibility" is license to do whatever they choose, then when caught, simply take responsibility.
Having been through this sort of thing in my twenties with others in some sort of "recovery," I'm just waiting for "the other shoe to drop!"
Will it be another war? Will it be a postponement to a "free election" in America? Will it be more 'hand-wringing" helplessness? Whatever crisis comes to pass, it should come as no great surprise . . .
He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Two Years After Katrina

I copied and pasted some quotes from news articles to my notes today. It's been two years since Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast and I found it interesting, what has come to pass since this Cat 3 hurricane hit.
First, I will share the "fair and balanced" view of FOXNews:
BILOXI, Miss. — About 100 people prayed and sang Wednesday on the neatly manicured Biloxi town green, standing in the shadow of a Hurricane Katrina monument to remember the monster storm that left a wide swath of destruction along Mississippi's coastline two years ago.
Mayor A.J. Holloway said he is grateful for how far his city has come and proud of its people.
"God has been good to Biloxi and its people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast," Holloway said. "We have a new outlook on life and a new appreciation for what's really important in life. It's not your car or your clothes or your possessions. It's being alive and knowing the importance of family and friends and knowing that we all have a higher power."

"We ring the bells for a city that is in recovery, that is struggling, that is performing miracles on a daily basis," New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin said

Perhaps Mr. Nagin could gain some insight to recover and a positive perspective from the Mayor of Biloxi.

Next, I will share a quote or two from CNN:
Protesters, remembering the government's slow response in the storm's immediate aftermath, planned to march from the Lower 9th Ward to Congo Square to spread their message that the government has also failed to help people return.
"People are angry and they want to send a message to politicians that they want them to do more and do it faster," said the Rev. Marshall Truehill, a Baptist pastor and community activist. "Nobody's going to be partying."
In New Orleans, a candlelight vigil was planned in Jackson Square at dusk Wednesday, right around the time the French Quarter last year started getting tipsy with street parties and residents choosing to remember the anniversary in their own unique way.

I think it was "their own unique way" that kind of disuaded me. First, we had the snow making machine in the deep south. The first step in a succession of many for poor management of federal funding. Then of course, there's the fact that two years later there is still a huge outcry of needing help, yet both Februarys since Katrina have managed to host a bustling MardiGras and Fat Tuesday extravaganza. I can't afford to not bother to be productive or throw away a ton money to celebrate, so why should I finance those that consider this manner of recovery, "their own unique way." This is America, finance your "own unique way!"

And last, but certainly not least is AP:
But Gina Martin, who is still living in Houston after Katrina destroyed her New Orleans home, was unconvinced. "Bush was down here again making more promises he isn't going to keep. The government has failed all of us. It's got to stop," she said.
Martin was among an estimated 1,000 people taking part in a protest march that started in the Lower 9th Ward. It was a uniquely New Orleans-style protest: There were signs accusing the Bush administration of murder and angry chants about the failure of government. But marchers also danced in the street accompanied by two brass bands.
In Gulfport, Miss., Gov. Haley Barbour urged people to see the positive. About 13,000 of his state's families are still living in FEMA trailers, but that's down from a peak of 48,000, and he expects they could all be out of the temporary housing in a year.

President Bush said 80% of the promised funds have been delivered, so . . . perhaps it is time to stop whining and demanding and realize, New Orleans; every day people have crisis situations and horrendous events, that don't get federal funding, and don't make the national news, and they have to rebuild their lives and simply do it!
Another thing I noticed, which is why I sent money to Biloxi rather than New Orleans, in the first place. Biloxi was willing to "help themselves" and have given G~D the glory. Just another point I couldn't help but notice, here, 2 years after Katrina. New Orleans has received a ton of federal funding, and they still say they are far from recover.
It would seem that those that rolled up their sleeves and got busy, have rebuilt and those that are still waiting to be rescued by their government, are still waiting and disappointed.
That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of G~d. New Testament

Things I Find Hard to Believe

There are a few things in the news, these days, that I just find hard to believe.
I find it hard to believe that the Bush followers can't see that "we" are the destabilizing, inconsistent power in the Middle East. All this bluster from Bush about ties with Iran to Hezbollah and undermining the Lebanese government, is nonsense. If there really was an issue with Hezbollah in Lebanon, we'd have gotten involved last year with Israel. That's another thing I find hard to believe. If the present administration was truly "pro-Israel," the present administration wouldn't make it so difficult for an "ally" and certainly wouldn't leave them without allied defense.
Enough about Bush, there are other things I'm finding difficult to believe, these days.
What's with this Senator from Idaho? I find it hard to believe that he has had to "pre-emptively" squelch rumors and innuendo about his sexuality for 25 years. If he didn't do what he is accused of, then why did he plead guilty? He's a senator, he had to know somebody would find a year's probation "news worthy," especially under the circumstances. And all of his "family value" legislation . . . Me thinks he doth protest too loudly!
My next area of difficulty concerns Hillary Clinton. I can't believe some transportation union has endorsed her, considering the "experience" upon which she stands. Her experience amounts to being married to a governor and president, the very president that gave us NAFTA. I was shocked that the unions backed her husband in 1996 after NAFTA, but I am floored that the UTU has endorsed her. I find it hard to believe that . . . wait a minute, considering what has happened to the unions in America for the last 25 years, I guess this union is doing exactly what would be expected. It's just too bad, they can't see what they have done to themselves, already. I guess that's why corporate power is the power and union power has gone by the way side . . .
At the risk of sounding judgmental and biased, I find it hard to believe that Michael Vick has seen the light! It seems more that the spot light has flooded his life to full illumination. If Michael Vick has had a change of heart, great. If he's found Jesus, halleluyah! And if those two things have actually occurred, then I'm sure he will be humbly remorseful and repentant to the tune of returning his advances and stop blaming others for his actions. When the reference was made to poor or bad judgment, all I can say is; breaking the law is certainly a poor judgment call and very poor decision. We'll see if his life has changed enough to be willing to face the consequences. Right now, I find that hard to believe.
A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Adios, Alberto

Another member of the Bush camp, leaves for "all of the right reasons" under false accusations . . . Whatever. I wasn't a fan of Mr. Gonzales, I thought he went way over the top in presenting what was needed to "protect the people." Alberto Gonzales actually made John Ashcroft appear to be a reasonable man. And as someone from Missouri, I can assure you, making John Ashcroft seem reasonable is quite a feat, indeed. But by contrast, he has. I cannot say I am sorry to see Mr. Gonzales' resignation, actually quite to the contrary. But I think what I have noticed at this point is the number of times in the Bush tenure, that our President has said something is, or something is not, or something has been accomplished, or stay the course, or time to change, or whatever our President has claimed, very little of his statements seem to prove out later. I wish, we in America, knew what was going on. All we know is the political double speak of "he's staying, he's staying, he's staying . . . to I've accepted his resignation." We don't get any real concrete evidence or reasons, just vague, nondescript warning or acceptance. You know, if President Bush were truly the leader of a godly nation, and he claimed that he had prayed about his direction and stood firm on that, we'd have a President with the absolute power he so desires. Actually, if he were a godly leader of a godly nation, he would have all the power of heaven at his fingertips. But for now, he's accepting of the power that his followers give him. It would seem, at the rate that his "faithful inner circle" is resigning, perhaps we should be taking note of two things. Where are these people going after their resignation? Isn't a man of G~d supposed to get something accurate, at some point. I remember when our President said that Mr. Gonzales would not be resigning. Of course, this is the same man and same administration that claimed Weapons of Mass Destruction and stated "mission accomplished."
Then said he unto me, Son of man, these are the men that devise mischief, and give wicked counsel in this city: a prophet of Holy Scriptures

Have I Reached the Party to Whom I'm Speaking?

The famous question of "Ernestine the Operator." Remember Lily Thomlin sitting at the switch board on Laugh In in the 60's? Well, probably many people don't, but that was back when operators actually answered the phone when someone dialed "0," and there was no charge on the bill! That was a time before 911 and 411 and when AT&T was the only phone company in town, but they said they tried not to act like it . . . Well that was then . . . At the advent of push button, we discovered that the phone company was already preparing us for a cashless society. "Someday" a person could press the * button or the # button and pay their bills or do their banking! Unheard of. Then the 80's came along and we had the Reagan years. With the Reagan years came government involvement into our communications system and AT&T was broken up! But it was an amicable breakup with Southwestern Bell and the rest of the Baby Bells still keeping in touch and working with Ma Bell, AT&T. The equipment would belong to AT&T, while the service would belong and be run by the "smaller" now independent bells. Of course, in the next two decades, came cell phones, the internet, blackberries, and Homeland Security! Now AT&T has been reunited, but in the interum, we all have gained cell phones. But I'm taking notice where there are signs posted where we can and cannot have them on. Has anyone else noticed the removal and absense of pay phones? I was shocked a few weeks ago to discover that there were no pay phones in a hospital! NONE. Now, of course, someone "let me" use the phone for an outside line, but there were no payphones. As I stumbled across rules of privacy, HIPPA, and lack of communication equipment to the "outside world," I began to realize through all the phone company changes, we've lost so much with what we've "gained." Our cell phones are all traceable. I don't even know how to operate a blackberry, but I'm sure they are quite trackable. Homeland security can track everything and everyone, but illegal immigrants and bin Laden. It's truly laughable, but it's our homeland security, none the less! And we've lost our pay phones. We can't call the operator for information or for free. There are places we actually do not have access with which to make a call, save for some person granting us permission to use "their communication system." And now, I get my bill, once again from AT&T. I think often of that old advertisement with the lineman doing his job faithfully and the sound clip stating, "We may be the only phone company in town, but we try not to act like it." Now that they are back to being the only phone company around, not only do they seem to act like it, the powers that be seem to want it that way.
Why can't payphones simply be like a public service? I realize AT&T is in business to make money, but they are doing that. Why are all the payphones disappearing, as we have come to accept every other decision that has been made regarding our "right to communicate?" Wouldn't it be great if the phone company got all excited about free speech? I'm not talking about no bills, just about telephone availability . . .
Therefore my people are gone into captivity, because they have no knowledge: and their honourable men are famished . . . a prophet of Holy Scripture

The Problem on Wall Street is the "F" word: "Federal"

What if we connected point A, B, and C? Fact: A. Wall Street is shaky. Amateur investors are now involved. Mutual Funds continue to bounce through, changing and juggling constantly. Investors no longer have to buy in lots of 100 shares, or with their own money. The Dow Jones is higher than it has ever been, because the factor of inflation in the American economy is on Wall Street. America has outsourced jobs, the Big 3 are running behind, globally, and there are more Americans on Social Security and disability, than ever before. America is not a "producing nation," yet Wall Street is reaching new heights! That's because Wall Street has changed it's foundation. Wall Street is based upon trading paper, not actual investment of the value of a company's products.
B. The Federal Government has gotten very involved in big business, and the American Federal Government is basically from a business perspective; insolvent! Our federal government runs in the red, and our federal government is setting the direction of our nation, so . . . When the federal government is involved in housing and investment, we the people are ultimately going to discover just what some of the banks and sub-prime lending companies have come to understand.
C. When an insolvent entity, such as our government, steps in to regulate financing and subsidize Wall Street, we will quickly see that insolvency does not bring balance to a fragile financial situation.

I've included three paragraphs from the first website link I found in a Google Search, regarding Federal Mortgaging.

Federal Housing Administration
FHA Celebrates the 34 Millionth FHA Homeowner
FHA Commissioner, Brian Montgomery, introduced the Andrew and Angela Murin Family as its 34 millionth FHA Homeowner at the Murin's home in Edmond, Oklahoma. Mr. Montgomery also was the keynote speaker at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas' conference on Preserving Homeownership: Addressing the Foreclosure Issue. The conference featured discussions with economists, industry professionals, lenders and community leaders on the impact of foreclosures and innovative strategies for intervention. Capping off the week he visited Champion Homes, a manufactured housing plant in Burleson, Texas.

Freddie Mac
Who We Are
Freddie Mac is a stockholder-owned corporation chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. By doing so, we help lower housing costs and provide better access to home financing.
Regulation and Oversight
Federal oversight helps us play our vital role in America's housing system.
Public Policy
As a unique corporate entity created by Congress to serve specific housing policy objectives, we think carefully about the impacts of legislation, policies, and industry issues on our company and our ability to fulfill our mission.

About Fannie Mae
Fannie Mae is a shareholder-owned company with a public mission. We exist to expand affordable housing and bring global capital to local communities in order to serve the U.S. housing market. Fannie Mae has a federal charter and operates in America's secondary mortgage market to ensure that mortgage bankers and other lenders have enough funds to lend to home buyers at low rates. Our job is to help those who house America. Fannie Mae was created in 1938, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, at a time when millions of families could not become homeowners, or risked losing their homes, for lack of a consistent supply of mortgage funds across America. The government established Fannie Mae in order to expand the flow of mortgage funds in all communities, at all times, under all economic conditions, and to help lower the costs to buy a home. In 1968, Fannie Mae was rechartered by Congress as a shareholder-owned company, funded solely with private capital raised from investors on Wall Street and around the world.

Our government is in real estate investment. Is our government involved to assist with mortgage loans for the financially bad risks or is our government simply involved to be in a position for ownership at the point of real estate repossession?
I have my idea about this Federal Housing Administration, Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae. We, the people, just can't afford "Federal Money" to keep a roof over our heads.
Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Captivating Conspiracy???

I noticed something last week that I felt I needed to research a bit. This morning, I heard on the news that some gas station owners in California have the same impression I do, so I think it's time to share my view. Due to some horrendous circumstances that began last month, I found myself, after nearly two years of semi-monthly trips to town as a passenger, suddenly; twice daily in the driver's seat. I found myself noticing the gasoline prices diligently, with just a feeling that "they" were getting ready to play with them again. I mean, the whole world, with the exception of the neo-con following, realizes, the American administration has done everything within its power to anger every oil rich nation on the globe. And those of us that are not neo-cons are also aware of this power play being perpetrated on us by government or corporate oil powers or both. With the history of the players, between Haliburton and Zapata Oil, it's truly difficult to differentiate between political power and corporate control.
Anyway, as I observed the price going down for the three weeks I was making my same trek, morning and evening, I was truly thankful that the prices were declining, but waiting for what I have found to be the pattern and protocol of the past few years. It seems there is a pattern of a small decline in price, then a fairly noticable one, then the "super unleaded" gets a few pennies cheaper than "regular unleaded," then it all goes up, markedly, at the pumps, when the tankers roll in the next week or two and refill. As I say, I've been watching this for a few years, but this time, I realized, we the people have so come to accept this treatment, that "they" didn't even wait for the tankers to roll in or for the "gas war" to be official. Remember when there was a certain day of the week, or month, depending upon the size of the town, that each station or company received their gasoline delivery and the price would fluctuate, accordingly? Well, not any more! Literally, overnight last week, all the gasoline prices in the area went up by 20 cents a gallon. And . . . we accepted it again! "They" know we will! How in the world, did every station in the area receive a new shipment of gasoline in that twelve hour period? And it was all the companies, well, the few that haven't merged, anyway. What did I learn from this little observation. The cost at the pump has absolutely nothing to do with the price of the gasoline when it's delivered. If this is acceptable business practice, just what is collusion?
We the customer have become the consumer, and we are at the mercy of those in connivance. Just how does a government police itself when it comes to corrupt cronyism?
My son . . . If they say . . . let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Candidate Update

It's been awhile since I gave a candidate update, so here goes.
I still haven't heard any more from Hillary. Perhaps I didn't send my question to the right "dot com." And as Jeff pointed out in one of his comments here, Hillary has already "accepted" where her stand is likely to be. I'm guessing, if she is elected, she'll remain as ineffective as she has been in the Senate. As a matter of fact, as she claims all this experience as first lady of Arkansas and first lady of the country, just what does that mean in accomplishments? She has had more unaccountable authority and unelected power than any person in recent US history, and what has she accomplished? Just what has she gotten done? I heard her comments on health care regarding other's failures, but I believe her 1993 attempt was also a failure and she has already explained being funded by big corporations, so I can't see that she's going to be any different than what we already have. Do I think Hillary could ever represent the common citizen? Hardly! She's managed to live in the finest "government housing" available while still maintaining the freedom to be unaccountable and make investments and accept donations. Let some other woman on government housing try that!
Let's move on to Mr. Obama. I've heard from his campaign committee 19 times, so far. Seventeen of those messages have come through my e-mail and two have come to my home by phone. I had to list my information if I wanted to post a question, so now my information is used at the discretion of his campaign, without having answered my question. I received a call the other evening, inviting me to some dinner or something about 80 miles away, and I asked why they were calling me. She said I had indicated I might be supportive. Well, I proceeded to tell her, Mr. Obama sounds like politics as usual. He was a "nobody" placed in the public spotlight at the Democratic National Convention in 2004. I'd say that was an obvious political move, then. He's asking for donations and he's saying "trust me." So, what's so different about him, than any other politician. I got tickled at her statement that told me I could go to his "dot com" and read all of his information, and that is when I realized; as messy as this nation is, I'm not about to cast a vote for someone that doesn't have any track record that shows, where he's been. It's so nice that he can continue to say that he didn't vote to go to Iraq. Well neither did any of the rest of us that weren't in the Senate or the House in 2002! He just doesn't seem like a guy that is in touch with, "we the people." And, he has taken advantage of the fact that I listed my phone number to ask a question. He hasn't, yet, answered my question, but he's used my phone number. If I wanted more government assumption and intrusion in my life, he'd have my vote!
I've heard from the Edwards camp 22 times, and all by the e-mail address I sent my question, so that's a good thing. Some of his stuff is kind of folksy and quaint and that's okay, too. I don't care for his health care idea and I know he'll end up raising taxes, but you know . . . I'd rather pay more taxes now, than leave this huge debt, run up by the current administration, for my grandchildren to pay. I am sorry that he sank to the level of "the conservative high road" in his ongoing feud with Ann Coulter. He shouldn't have called her a name, and frankly the one he chose indicates so much more power than she actually possesses, although the word, possessed, does cross my mind when I read her comments or view her "pundit performances."
So, that's the Candidate Update on the 20th of August, 2007.
Your country is desolate, your cities are burned with fire: your land, strangers devour it in your presence, and it is desolate, as overthrown by strangers. the Prophets of Holy Scripture

Our Medical System Needs a Remedy

I have found myself in a situation that I would have never guessed I'd be in. I've spent three weeks, night and day, at a hospital bedside. And you know, it stinks. Everything about it stinks. Let me qualify my viewpoint with the fact that I simply do not have any faith in doctors or the medical system. I place my faith in G-D, but that is not the order of the day, here in America. I don't have a TV at home, but I've seen plenty of television the past three weeks, and I had no idea that just about every other advertisement is for a medication. I have come to realize the programming of our nation appears to be highly effective. Through the news, it's heart and ulcer medications. Through the political programs, the advertisements are for cialis and viagra. Late night, we see medications for restless leg syndrome and sleep disorders. But that doesn't begin to scratch the surface of the American medical system. I've had the privilege of dealing with HIPPA, which is just stupid. HIPPA has so many loopholes for the system, and the patient can get lost or caught in every one of them. I also found out, nurses are exempt from the HIPPA rules. My husband's cousin is married to a nurse and to quote him, she "tracked him down" and found out which hospital he was in. For all of you that think HIPPA is there for your privacy and protection, think again! And hospitals have crossed the line from mercy, compassion, and charity to big, very big business. There are now charge cards that allow so much time to pay, interest free, for visits to a doctor, a dentist, or even a vet. Then the card has the same regulations and charges as any credit card, because many hospitals no longer carry accounts past thirty days, even with their disproportionately outrageous costs. Tell your insurance company to be quick or you'll find yourself dealing with collection agencies or attorneys. I read an article today, about a woman that has battled cancer, paid the cobra insurance premiums between employment, still had to file bankruptcy over the co-pay of her medical bills, and now she is busy working, so she can pay insurance premiums costing over $600.00 a month. Ah, the compassion of the big business that medicine truly is! I'm wondering when the price of medical care is going to be figured in to the "quality of life" equation. Which now brings me to the candidates and their ideas. I haven't heard that any of the GOP candidates have made health care an issue, with the exception of Tommy Thompson, who has now dropped out of the campaign, but he's on the board of VeriChip, the chip that is implanted for medical information and now endorsed by the AMA. Hillary seems to want socialized medicine. Obama proposes some gradual insurance coverage plan. You know, for a guy that is supposed to be a fresh face, a splash of political freshness; considering as instantly as he rose to political stardom, he certainly can't make any promises with such immediate results to "we the people." John Edwards wants to make health insurance mandatory like auto insurance. As I have observed, first hand, and listened to the candidates, I'm truly leaning toward socialized medicine. America ranks close to 40th in medical care world wide and past 40th in life expectancy. Apparently, what America is doing isn't really working so well, anyway. So, how can it be improved? I don't agree with John Edwards. I don't use hospitalization or doctors, so I shouldn't be forced to carry insurance. I have no idea what Obama is really even saying. He's got such "GQ" style, but this gradual stuff just doesn't keep me hanging on his every word. Hillary's socialized medicine, if that's really the plan, seems to be the best. I'm already paying taxes that are funding all sorts of things I don't believe in, so why not medical treatment as well? Then, people can actually make a choice. A hard working single mom that really puts her faith in medicine can afford treatment, and a person like myself, who doesn't choose to seek treatment is simply paying taxes. I'm not sure what we'll do with all the unemployed insurance salesmen and handlers, but socialized medicine will finally bring everyone to the place of knowing what they believe and where they place their trust. I know my mother-in-law and sister-in-law share the same faith. I've heard them both speak of life in the hands of a doctor, as if life were truly in the power of educated man. I'm thankful my loved one has survived this treatment, but I'll be very glad to leave this "temple of healing" and take him home to seek The Healer.
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the YHVH thy G-d, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the YHVH that healeth thee.
I am the YHVH: that is My name: and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images. Holy Scripture

Behind the Scenes

Friday was a big day in America. Karl Rove told the President he was resigning. The candidates turned up the volume and the charm in Iowa for the Straw Poll, and the Feds subsidised Wall Street to the tune of $35 billion. I find it absolutely amazing that in the midst of all the upheaval on Capitol Hill, Mr. Rove has decided now, after all he and the President have been through together; it's time to leave politics . . . If I were a betting woman, I would say things are closer to being in place for all the key players of this administration, to have their power outside the limits of politics. I noticed just before Tommy Thompson decided to drop out of the presidential race, the AMA has given new credence to Veri-Chip. The interview he gave before Saturday let us all know, a 2008 campaign was not really in his plan! He said if he came in below second, he was out. He'd never been second in any poll . . . Last I checked, Mr. Thompson was on the board of the company that owns Veri-Chip, but so far he hasn't reported receiving his microchip, just promoting them for everyone else! Hillary has owned up to taking corporate cash, and Mitt Romney is rich! So, although politics is a great show and wonderful scenery, the real power for either party, as always; is in money. The feds have a new plan to avoid a depression this time. They'll simply subsidise Wall Street. Is that not just the craziest thing, yet? The concern and instability is supposedly too many home loans and mortgages have been made to people with unstable or poor credit, and the investors are shakey. Don't you wonder just how many houses could have been subsidised with $35 billion dollars? So, if I understand this correctly. Mr. Rove is now protected from the questions of Congress and can return to the private sector officially above the law. The 2008 candidates can go on their merry way, living an already extravagant lifestyle, taking money from whomever is willing to give it. Tommy Thompson can return to his private life of power and continue to serve to better 'equip us all' for surveillance. And the mortgage companies can receive subsidies from the government while they go through the arduous and lengthy task of repossessing real estate from those Americans that just can't quite afford to have a roof over their heads!
But they that will be rich fall into temptation . . . which drown men in destruction and perdition. New Testament

Infrastructure

As we continue to hear a higher death toll from the collapse of the bridge in Minneapolis, and yet another group of miners continue to be trapped beneath the surface of the earth, I wonder . . . why are we not getting a clue? As we continue to be devastated from these catastrophes, we continue to fund the building and rebuilding of the infrastructure of Baghdad. I understand that the President doesn't want to designate any road tax for road repairs and improvements, and we can all enjoy the so-called tax cuts this present administration has implemented, so our grandchildren can inherit the national debt. Meanwhile, I'm guessing the bridge in Minneapolis won't be repaired until we have some sort of legislation removing freedoms and causing restriction for transportation and general travel. It just seems every catastrophe in this country calls for more legislation for our security and safety, yet every other country we are involved in don't even have to have a respected government in place for us to continue to fund, build, rebuild, while those citizens enjoy new found freedoms exported from America, at the cost of American's freedoms.
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free . . . New Testament

One Big Party, And We the People Aren't Invited

Well, Congress is on vacation. This new Congress seems to be anything but "new." The democrats promised radical change and staunch opposition to the Bush regime, when the majority changed from right to left, and yet here we sit, nearly a year after the big "shake up" election. I'm literally amazed at just how much Bush policy continues to pass through the House and Senate, with the GOP in the minority, and supposedly some GOP moving away from Bush doctrine. Why couldn't the democrats be so powerful when they were the minority? And why are they still so impotent, now that they are the majority? I am truly, now convinced with this latest legislation before the "big break" that political parties are just for show. Let's face it; the politicians are going to do what is best for the politicians. The ones that were elected in 2006 have a considerable amount of time before they have to worry themselves with rallying votes again. We already know that 2008 is not about electing someone that truly will be a good leader, it's about voting against the "party" of non-choice. Hillary is the leading democrat right now and she openly admitted to taking big corprate money, and we already know what Clinton policy did to the unions with NAFTA, before Bill was reelected. Obama is 'promising' fresh and new, but it was clearly obvious at the national convention in 2004, before he was even elected to Senate, that the groundwork for his political career was in place. It just seems, that new faces, new names, and the 'opposing' parties continue to utilize the same methods and produce the same results. More war, more laws, more government spending, more party talk, with fewer rights, less representation, and empty promises from both sides of the political aisle.
Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him . . . Holy Scripture

Will Be Back

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I am unable to post a regular daily blog at this time. I plan to return to normal circumstances by the 20th of August.
Please visit, again.