Partisanship

I have to admit, the first time I heard then Candidate Obama talk about crossing party lines and aiming for bipartisanship, I knew I would never trust him. None of his ideas even sound remotely centrist, except of course where politicians on the left side of the aisle are schmoozed by big business. It seems every week, another democrat announces that they will not be seeking re-election in this midterm election. To be honest, I've made the correlation to rats jumping off the Titanic. There aren't many in America that don't realize, life as we knew it, is over. Oh, I know the stock market will rally to an extent, now that the upper Middle Class got out with the crash and half their money, and 401K's sunk, and well, there will be a surge now that the money is back in the hands of the upper elite, but the political scenery is changing. I don't know if it will be as dramatic as 1994, but health care reform and lack of accountability in the White House I think brought the change to Congress back then, and it's looking likely this time, also. I've really wondered if this extreme partisanship on the part of Clinton and Obama is just to give the republicans, "their turn" to keep the theatre going. Either that, or these two are political "double agents!" I really believe, President Obama's partisanship has done more for the republican party and a potential 3rd party than it's done for the democratic party or "we the people."
In all hard work there is profit, but talk only makes a man poor. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Arguments Are Really Losing Reason

I take about 20-30 minutes a day to read a few posts from a couple of forums. Sort of my break time. Sometimes I comment, but usually I just like to see what the average guy with plenty of free time has to say about things. I'm struggling with the whole facebook thing, as there are so many games, etc. on it, so I post a devotion at Berea Tabernacle and make an occasional comment and that's about the extent of my internet social life. But the political arguments are taking such interesting twists. It's always easy to see the die hards from both parties and they sound virtually the same, as far as open mindedness and respect for others, but I will warn you now, don't say that, because it makes folks on both sides of the aisle angry. And, yet I digress. My real point is the political grandstanding is losing logic and reason. I actually saw a discussion a.k.a. condescending debate, about the car companies. The "conservative" said the cash for clunkers was alternating the statistics and making it look like the recession was lessening through the summer months. Then the die-hard democrat responded with something to the effect that the recession was getting better, because all the rules for the cash for clunkers really didn't allow that many cars to qualify . . . Now my thought as I read this was a bit less political. I saw cash for clunkers as one more way to line some corporate pockets, increase insurance premiums from liability to full coverage, raise personal property taxes, create some more debt for those that didn't have an auto loan, and leave the dealerships holding the bag. Granted the conservative arguer will never see anything helpful if it's done by a democrat administration, but when the democrat had been lauding all the solutions provided by this new administration, then just flat out said, the program was so restrictive, it didn't really offer any change, my final thought was, "then what was the point?" The sock puppet theatre is branching out, to local community forums. It seems what our politicians have truly accomplished was to reduce logic and increase arguments! I don't really know how that helps the economy, but it seems to take everyone's mind off of the real issues.
A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Now the Invitation to the GOP

If you can't tell my this blog, I tend to not have republican leanings. Oh, don't get me wrong, I believe in laws and morality, but I think G~D's laws are more fair than man's and I'm really not a capitalist, so that sort of leaves me out of the main definition of republican these days. I can, however; see this upcoming "bipartisan theatre" as a real set up against the GOP and I think that's just a pretty underhanded move. Up until Scott Brown was elected to represent Massachusetts, the President had no problem discounting everything the GOP said and did. The GOP was so outnumbered, he simply didn't need their input. And in his campaign promises, he did tell us the health care debates would be televised for transparency. I don't have a TV, but I do remember reading about people asking where these televised debates were . . . so now that the GOP has been handed a true back handed invitation, he's ready to televise the entire discussion. I refuse to join the mentality of a great deal of the country and simply lean one way, because I am so disgusted by the other, but this one has me thinking that way. I'm not going to register with the GOP, but I'm very unimpressed with this so called bipartisan move. I really have had trouble trusting this new administration, but I thought the President was above tactics like this.
Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward . . . Proverbs of Holy Scripture

Washington DC

Closed on account of the weather. Somehow there is a symmetry to this that just can't go unnoticed. Here, the republican pundits frequently refer to our president as the messiah, and the democrats haven't had so much power in so long, they seem literally dizzy breathless, and in just a couple of day, the town is closed and lacking electricity. Now, I'm sure there is some politician that is going to figure out a way to gain some mileage and claim some fame in this event, but the simple fact of the matter is, Washington isn't really the final word. And I simply find it fantastic to see it proven right now. Oh, I'm sorry for the folks that are out of power in the area, I know what that's like from our winter storm a few years back. Iced in, in the dark isn't all that great of an experience, but it does bring out the ingenuity and creativity in one, and the challenge doesn't hurt us, once in a while just to stay on our toes. I do find it interesting as I read more and more "survival blogs" the number of people that have to stay with a friend or check into a hotel, rather than simply hone their survival skills, but that's Americana at it's finest! We'll just buy survival gear with our credit card, to put in the basement. No need worrying about that sort of thing now . . .This harsh winter is giving us the opportunity to have insight into at least three things. We can live without all the conveniences, well, some of us can, and we can live without Congress legislating our lives for a day or two. And last but certainly not least, G~D can shut Washington down . . .
But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of YHVH thy G~D, to observe to do all His commandments and His statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee: Torah of Holy Scripture

Play Ball!

I am a fan of football. I still remember watching the first Superbowl with Daddy in 1967. It was the KC Chiefs vs. Green Bay Packers. We lost . . . I watched my last game in the stands between KC and Denver in 1990. I just had to let football go, as I watched it become a "religion." Now that "beer free tailgate parties" are at the local church on Superbowl Sunday, I expect to hear some dissatisfaction from YHVH.
I'm thinking regardless of who wins, America is in for a rude awakening. It's interesting that American Christians believe the "Sabbath" has been moved to Sunday, yet they will move Sunday services to accommodate Football. And if the Saints win, the celebration will last til Fat Tuesday!
Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Torah of Holy Scripture

What Gives?

First I read that there were actually nearly 1 million more jobs lost in this recession than previously counted, and now I read the headline today that unemployment has actually gone down. That's right! In simple English, not political schpeel, here's the scoop. The shell game has moved from war and terror to employment and health care. Still moving the shells all around the table while we guess where the pea or nut is. The unemployment rate has gone down for two reasons. Fewer people are collecting unemployment, thus changing the stats and the second reason is, I think, even sadder. Jobs are being split to change the stats, so more people are hired at fewer hours, not to mention the largest generation in the country is hitting retirement age and social security, so the boomers are leaving the equation, from the employment side. So, for the moderate percentage of people that are actually in the employment figures, many of them are taking hour reduction and pay cuts to remain on the employment roll. You have to be in the government TARP program to get any bonuses! And for the rest of the stats, as I've mentioned before, social security recipients, children, stay at home moms, self-employed, the disabled, and those receiving SSI and welfare, aren't even figured into the unemployment equation. Not to worry. The government is going to "create" jobs, meaning more government payroll from the the ever deficient tax rolls.
Let there more work be laid upon the men . . .

Lookout Toyota Dealerships

I don't mean to sound like some sort of conspiranoid, but . . . It seems we are about to be out of auto options. I drive by the former Chrysler dealership in one town and see several empty GM dealerships in other towns and now Toyota dealerships are due to get how many recalls back on their lots? Or how many dissatisfied customers asking, "Can we drive or can't we?" Again, I'm not saying it's a conspiracy, but it does seem that we Americans are losing our options rapidly and it would seem that our government is poised and ready to micro manage every aspect of our life and recall everything. I appreciate safety as much as the next person, but if there is a legitimate problem, let's take care of it without putting the last few guys out of business. Because that's really what it's beginning to look like to me. All the supposed dangerous items we import, doesn't get those businesses shut down. I see a real trend here, and it's a scary one. Maybe I wouldn't be so conspiratorial minded had I not also just read about the new retention bonuses for the AIG guys. Well it just makes sense, if we are going to have mandatory insurance in the health care reform, to keep the insurance guys fat and happy. As for the car industry . . . how will we get to our preventative health care appointments or the polls at election time without cars? How will everyone get to the new jobs our government is creating for us? In all the solutions, it just sounds like we're about to be dependent upon our government for a ride to our government employment.
Let there more work be laid upon the men, that they may labour therein

I Read the Debt is Increasing

I'm doing my best to follow this budget our government is presenting. It appears to be the most creative bookkeeping I've ever seen and it arrives at what the American budget always arrives at: MORE DEBT! Raising the debt over 3 trillion just next year, while promising to lower the expenses of about 1 trillion over the next 10 is ridiculous, as a vision, much less a promise. I see creative bookkeeping at it's finest. "Cookin' the books" at it's most basic definition. I couldn't help but wonder . . . What if the Washington method of bookkeeping was the standard for our nation? Then again, I remembered it is. Then I wondered . . . What if we the people used this sort of bookkeeping in dealing with the IRS? Then I wondered . . . What if the IRS accepted "cooking the books" or "creative bookkeeping" to level and equal out over 10 years for the taxpayers? That's right, not big corporation or the pharmaceutical lobby, but simply the taxpayers? What if the IRS accepted the same tax perspective from the citizens that the politicians promote? What if a so called G~Dly nation actually attempted to live by G~D's Word?"
The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Booms, Busts, and Better Days

I can't help myself. About once a week, I read a collective group of various articles that have been written in the course of a week to compare what the media is recommending that we do, financially. My, personal thought is this, the recession in all likelihood will end in a depression. Considering the inflation our government is creating right now, we've basically got no place to go but down. Since the housing market has crashed . . . or has it? The stock market is supposedly rebounding after most of the moderate investors lost and got out, so now Wall Street has been repossessed by the wealthy, can they sustain it without us? Actually, they don't have to depend upon moderate to upper middle class income for investors, they get our tax dollars, so we're still investing, there are just no dividends. Maybe this will work for Wall Street for a time. But the unsolvable problem ultimately will present itself for a final time. Wall Street invests in money to make more money, and the dollar is losing value. So if Wall Street wants to continue to invest in currency, it may need a new currency to invest in. The talking heads are telling us, gold, is the hedge against it all. Well, gold is higher than it's ever been, so buying high isn't usually the optimum plan, but then again, these talking heads know the mentality of their listeners. I personally think land is the best investment I can see for some time to come, but I think it will ultimately sky-rocket or simply belong to Washington. In the mean time, it only makes sense to make some true lasting investments, like a good winter coat, some good work or walking boots, some fruit jars or freezer bags. Don't get me wrong, I'm not suggesting that anyone stop caring about the future, I'm just suggesting that those that truly care about the future may not be seeing it in dollars and cents and more, but rather in devotion and sense.
Cast your bread on the waters; For you shall find it after many days. Ecclesiastes of Holy Scripture

The Middle Class

Well, now that our President can't give us health care reform on the "silver platter" or one simply chrome plated, that he was planning, he's going to give us tax breaks and child care credits. You know what this sounds like? I've been reading about the children of Israel in Egypt and there is a striking similarity. Scripture says the children of Israel were in Egypt for 430 years . . . to the day. They ended up being delivered from the bondage of brick making and death of their children in the great Exodus. Most folks have seen it on Easter Sunday night, in Cecil B. DeMille's "Ten Commandments." But the children of Israel didn't start out as slaves. They had the best of the best when Joseph was Pharaoh's right hand man. In Pharaoh's Egypt, if you knew Joseph, you were well connected and received great favor. The question that has occurred to me over the past several years is this. Just when did the children of Israel pass from favored folk to slaves? Did they realize when it happened or did it just gradually erode? What changed and how did they miss living in the material abundance to a death sentence over their unborn, making bricks, and building pyramids? The next question I have, is when did it happen here in America, because it has. Did anyone see the precise moment we moved from a materialistic "riding high" middle class to slaves; just happy to have a job and making enough money for our health insurance and day care?
And they made their lives bitter with hard bondage . . . all their service, wherein they made them serve, was with rigour. Torah of Holy Scripture

It Just Depends . . .

Every now and again, I have to blog about the media, because well, sometimes the way the news is reported is news! I was very disappointed this morning in FOXNews on their coverage of the newly-elected Senator, Scott Brown. FOXNews chose to cover the Wednesday morning quarterbacking of the Democrats, rather than give us all the news about Scott. I truly could not believe that FOXNews took a pass regarding sex and politics and actually failed to mention Senator Brown's photo shoot when he wasn't wearing a suit and red tie. And here I thought the red tie was just part of the republican birthday suit. According to Cosmo, I would be wrong. In all balance of fairness, we know if President Obama had any beefcake photos in his past, FOX would be sure to mention them. And if any of the ladies of the Democrats had some racy photos, they'd be FOX headlines, but not this time with the new Senator. Although I always read more than one source of news, it was on CNN that I first saw the term Senator Beefcake. And in all fairness the other way, the skeleton in Scott Brown's closet wouldn't have been any big deal to CNN if he were a democrat, so . . . Wouldn't it be nice if the news was just the news and it didn't depend upon the political leanings of the one making the news?
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Brown won in Massachusetts

Wow! The republican beat the recognized name and the supposed successor to the half century, Senate seat of Edward Kennedy. Yeah! I, now semi-believe, the election system works. Could it be that Massachusetts is letting the rest of the country know just what universal, socialized, government medical care is all about? Or is it simply that Massachusetts prefers some sort of symbol of sexism for their representative? It's the only state that has it and it would seem they were willing to upend 50 years of tradition to stop the democratic trend, yet maintain the sexual controversy. And here I was just about to give up my faith in the electoral system all together. I never thought of the idea of sexual prowess, overriding party. So, whether a party is thrown or simply a magazine sold, I guess we can appreciate the tradition of Massachusetts politics. Of course, now we'll have this outrageous puppet theatre for another couple of years, as the midterm election unfolds, then the gridlock, and then the 2012; no holds barred. I look for a couple of years of sheer entertainment, politically speaking. Ancient Rome had nothing on us. Oh, that's right, we're just an extension of Ancient Rome.
So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. the book of Romans, New Testament

Where to Start

I think tomorrow's special election for the Senate seat is going to speak volumes. If Massachusetts, the only state in the country that already has universal, mandatory health care sends a republican to Washington, then I think we can safely say, they are sending the message that the rest of us won't like what they already have. I guess we'll actually know how the state feels about the legacy of Senator Ted Kennedy regarding the health care bill. Now, if, on the other hand, Martha Coakley is elected, I have one of two theories there. Massachusetts just really is not going to ever vote for anything but Democratic Senators, by tradition and memory of Senator Kennedy, or the other theory, our votes simply don't count and there is an agenda in Washington. As far as health care reform, what the basic agenda appears to be is the mandatory insurance requirement or the penalty for not having it. That tells me our president and probably more than a few Congressmen, for some reason, really can't disappoint the insurance lobby. Now, on to my great entrepreneurial plan. I'm thinking sock puppets and popcorn for the next few years. I mean between Beck and Palin at Fox, the Obama drama in Washington, and the 2010 midterm, it's going to be quite an entertaining year. So we'll be needing popcorn. But I'm thinking sock puppets with some specific design. Can't you see the pastel dress type sock with a few fuzzies and googly eyes for Beck? And remember Scrunch socks, just add some big yarn and draw on some frameless glasses and viola, you have Sarah. You know those really creamy colored tight footie hose that some women wear with their sandals? It would have to be very tight over the hand for well obvious cosmetic reasons . . . then just add little dark bead eyes, and you've got Nancy P. For our President, I picture a taupe or mocha man's dress sock, very expensive, of course. The type that would be worn with an Armani suit and don't draw a smile on it. Now, as for Harry Reid, a worn out light grey with the little symbols or whatever they were, on our dad's socks back in the 60's or 70's. Design them, fill them with a bag of popcorn for popping and I think you've got a money maker on your hands. But remember in political sock puppet theatre, there would never be puppet made from a work sock.
Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Sorry, So Sorry!

That's the word from the fat cats of banking and Wall Street. They are sorry they didn't see the crash coming and well golly gee whiz, they are sorry they made the taxpayers angry with the big bonuses. Why, they appreciate the financial assistance they received from the taxpayers. I don't know if their apology angers me as much as the statements from the politicians that are supposedly investigating the alleged misuse of tax dollars in the form of multi-million dollar bonuses. Why would anyone, in any career, expect a bonus for a job poorly done! The fat cats have all admitted to missing the signs and taking unnecessary risks, yet are still deserving of monetary reward??? Seems as though they are sorry, now that they are caught. And what gives on this, not being able to track the money that was loaned. They are financiers! If they can't track finances, who can? If they do that poorly of a job, why do they still have a job, much less one that has included bonuses. The more they explain their stand, the more ridiculous all of this sounds. The fat cats are taking advantage of the fact everyone will crash if they are allowed to. Well, maybe it wouldn't hurt them to spend a day or two or the rest of their lives the way the rest of us live. I don't think my grandson should have to pay for the yachts and trips to Europe they are enjoying now.
Now to the politicians. No wonder they are in Washington deciding what they are going to do to us next. Look at what this former politician had to say about we the people.
The commission's vice chairman, former Rep. Bill Thomas, R-Calif., said the inquiry would try "to get to the bottom of what happened and explain it in a way that the American people can understand."
EXPLAIN IT IN A WAY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE CAN UNDERSTAND. Really???
Let me explain this in a way the American people already understand. The fat cats are on top and they will do anything they can to remain there. The politicians think the people that elect them are not so bright, and considering who we elect, perhaps there is an element of truth to that, but the politicians appear to think if they brandish some political steel, we are suddenly going to swoon into their next campaign and say "my hero!" Well it's real life and we the people know all we can do short of revolution is pay our taxes and watch the puppet show. It's a pretty steep admission charge these days, but we're so far invested now, we can't recoup the loss.
That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which is wanting cannot be numbered. Ecclesiastes of Holy Scripture

Just Which Side is He On?

President Obama is really seeming more like former President Clinton every day. Remember when the 40 year rule of a Democratic House came to a screeching halt in 1994? Looks like that's about to happen in the Senate in 2010 and as many seats as possible in the House, as well. President Clinton, at the time, seemed like a strategically placed pawn for the republican party, early on and since he left the White House, where's he been? Jetting around the world with Daddy Bush for charity . . . Wasn't it Bill himself that ignited the tossing of the race card between his wife's candidacy and the current President. As a matter of fact, it seemed that Bill's assistance to Hillary paved the way for Obama. And now, President Obama seems to be following the same path and laying the same groundwork, yet again. The difference, however; appears at least to me, that he will not be a two termer. He'll probably already be running the UN or something by 2012. If I recall, he hasn't actually finished any term before landing the next office. I wondered through the campaign, just what the office of President of the United States was a stepping stone for . . . I'm sure he's already got that figured out. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, he seems to be pretty detrimental to his fellow democrats in their mid-term, re-election bids.
When he speaketh fair, believe him not . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Keys

I think everybody receives some sort of promotional advertising from the auto dealers in January, don't we? The mailers with the large thick envelopes that have a key in them are the best. The envelope holds the typical advertising fliers, location, all that great information and a key to a brand new car. You know the rest . . . If the key starts the car, the car is yours, plus whatever is in the fine print! I've never bothered to follow through on even the reading of all the qualifications, much less actually go to the dealership and try it. We got two, I believe in the past week or so, and it got me thinking. We bought a new vehicle last year, well, a program vehicle or whatever they are with a few miles on them. Anyway, when the special ad with keys arrived this year, something dawned upon me. Ignition keys are not flat, they have chips or something. The entire top of the key for our new vehicle has or is some sort of electronic device or receiver. Our 15 year old car that we traded in last year had a chip. How many years has it been since you could start a car without a little chip in the key? I have never seen those high dollar electronic keys in the envelopes of the promos. Wow! Do you think the dealerships are just sending those out to get us on the lot to get "new car fever" and fill out a loan application? Do you think?
He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Weather

Does it seem that we are having more weather than usual? Obviously we can't actually have MORE weather, since weather is a constant presence, but the intensity of the weather is anything but constant. Last August, I told everyone that would listen and some that wouldn't, that we were going to have a cold winter, bitter and harsh. I believed the words I was speaking, but I didn't realize at the time that I was prophesying. Now that it's here, I don't think I was expecting this much intensity. I have two thoughts on how this weather is coming about. 1. G~D is not happy with many of us earthlings and weather is at HIS disposal, to get our attention. 2. Science is playing with the weather and causation and playing god, which really has potentially unmeasured consequences as well as bringing us back to thought #1.
I declared this to be an official snow day and it's gone rather well. The show was done by phone and I've been just having one revelation after another in regard to ministry, current events, and life in general. I told someone earlier in December that G~D was not happy with the way we were doing things and the weather would reflect HIS attitude. Well, I'm doing some serious soul searching myself on this matter. I mean Jonah didn't get included in Scripture for no reason. Could be there are a number of Jonahs either in the wrong place doing nothing for HIS cause, or in the right place doing the wrong thing. Our society has become so dependent upon our own solutions and ideas, I'm not sure we stop to think that G~D still has a hand in things like weather. I realize many will simply shrug me off and say, "it's winter." That's correct, but even the national headlines are making note of the severity of the situation. I'm thinking the people talking about G~D need to take note of the severity of the situation, and talk to G~D.
Fire, and hail; snow, and vapours; stormy wind fulfilling HIS word: a Psalm of Holy Scripture

It Really is About the Money

Medical care is over 16% of the gross domestic product. Wow! America has sick people that seek other people to fix them. And now, medical care is figured into what we produce. It all suddenly makes more sense, now doesn't it? The government is over the housing industry, banking industry, and 2/3 of the auto industry. Besides health care, we import everything else, and I've noticed several doctors that don't speak English as a first language. So now that we've seen the math, this health care reform is all but a done deal. I'm thinking President Obama will serve up the health care reform signature just right before his State of the Union Address and there we will have it, because last year, he won! I'm sure many of the democrats up for mid-term re-election will be sweating, but then again, the American people seem to have the collective political memory of tse-tse fly. That seems to work out well since politicians and tse-tse flies have the whole "blood sucking" pattern in common. So with regulation, legislation, security, and reform, the government will oversee and rule over every part of the American existence as we now know it! Because basically, the bottom line is this. We the people are numbers that pay taxes or cost money, so controlling us, is controlling the bottom line.
And they said, Thou hast saved our lives: let us find grace in the sight of my lord, and we will be Pharaoh's servants. Torah of Holy Scripture

Another New Year

I just don't know where 2009 went. Why it will be no time at all, another Presidential campaign will be announced. Of course, over half of the country is going on some sort of diet, right! Well, I'm definitely going to be making more rye bread, because rye is the "in grain" for 2010 and well I just happen to like rye bread best . . . and I bought a ton of caraway seeds a couple of months ago, so we will have the good rye bread with those great little seeds. I'm even going to break down and make mini rye bagels. I love rye bagels and you can't get them west of New York any more, but they've got so many calories I've always avoided them. Problem solved. I'll make mini bagel. It will be perfect and rye bagels need no cream cheese, no nothin'! They are perfect just toasted! I'm simplifying and doing more home-made. I've introduced my grandkids to home made toothpaste. Did you know if you swallow more than you should use to brush with, you're supposed to call poison control? I'm thinking anything that might need resolution from poison control should not go in anyone's mouth. Next on my health kick and diet improvement will of course be red wine. Not that I'm doing without it now, but I see that it is to be consumed daily for maximum benefit. NO problem there! Red wine is on the list. I know, since I did add it to my diet a few years ago, I've been told I look younger. Not by my husband, of course, but by others, who unlike my husband, would have no incentive to compliment me. I'm not quitting anything this year for a New Year's Resolution because that's negative. I don't want to fail. Quitters never win and winners never quit, so this year, I'm starting things.
Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities. New Testament

Airport Security and Health Care Reform

Now that we are seeing something looming on the horizon, I have to reiterate a blog I wrote a few years back. Airport security offends me on many levels, as does health care reform. I realize now that many talking heads are telling us it is not a loss of rights to be groped, treated rudely and refused something so basic as our own bottle of water, and perhaps they are right. Perhaps it is not a loss of rights, but it is a loss of dignity. Now that I think of it, dignity is not a promised right in America, but rather earned. Apparently even if it is earned, in the airport; we are all equal, except of course, airport security agents. I think what offends me most is the loss of what I do consider a fundamental concept mentioned in the bill of rights. Does anyone remember the premise that we are presumed innocent until proven guilty? Airport security has reversed that basic concept. If the talking heads are right, and we're not losing any rights, then so be it, but I was under the impression is was a right as an American citizen. I guess, this is the place where I just need to be thankful I don't live in Iran. Well, back to my concept. Seeing that the failed bomber allegedly had explosives in his underwear, I have three thoughts. First, if he had succeeded, just what did he plan to do with the 70 virgins? And second, I think we can be terribly glad, for the sake of future security procedures that he didn't have any explosives where I've read of drugs being hidden. And third, since I'm still unsure as to the authenticity of this entire ordeal, I do clearly see the introduction of body imaging security coming soon to an airport near you. So, I say let's kill two birds with one stone. Considering the expense that airport security will soon be, and the similar attitude of unquestionable authority between airport security and health care professionals, as well as the fears of rising health care with the reform, let's just crank up the resolution on the body imaging at the airports and we can go ahead and get the MRIs and CT scans at the same time.
For the day is near, even the day of YHVH is near, a cloudy day; it shall be the time of the heathen. a Prophet of Holy Scripture

What If?

I couldn't help but wonder this past week-end, just "What if?" I'm not trying to enhance the "Chicken Little Syndrome" and proclaim the sky is falling . . . quite the contrary. What if, while the snow was falling, and the banks were all closed for days, and some guy tried to light firecrackers on a plane, and Congress had just decided to print yet 300+ billion more dollars or raise the debt ceiling, and give us health care, and we mixed holy with profane for a winter holiday that nearly offends everyone now; things simply came to a screeching halt? What if many of us actually realized, life as we have known it, has changed, and within just a matter of a few glitches in a few days could forever change the way we do everything? Oh, the change has been like erosion . . . gradual over several years, but the shifting sand can no longer be shifted to feel like a foundation, and the ceiling of debt can no longer cover us and provide shelter. I've been particularly and keenly aware of the changes that have occurred since I entered the ministry over 15 years ago. Our religion has gotten much more materialistic and, well, greedy. Our government has gotten much more controlling, and the people have gotten much more divided and dependent. I told my husband, just this morning, to be considered outside of the norm in regard to religion, politics, medicine, and materialism is at this point, an award that I value greatly. It wasn't ever my goal, but it is a wonderful side benefit. I look around and I see so many people that are so utterly dependent upon the very things they claim to abhor and I just can't help but think yet another "What if." What if our lifestyle actually had to match our words? What if we realized we do believe in what we do? What if we realized we have replaced using our gifts and talents for a paycheck or social status? What if we realized, the banks could close, the roads could be closed, the weather could become unrelenting, and our money could be declared of no value? What if we realized all these questions I've raised could become reality with the exception of the weather, with just one or two keystrokes on a main computer? What if we wake up and realize G~D is allowing us to go our own way, just as HE did with ancient Israel?
Again in the ninth year, in the tenth month, in the tenth day of the month, the word of YHVH came unto me, saying, Son of man, write thee the name of the day, even of this same day: the king of Babylon set himself against . . . a Prophet of Holy Scripture

Putting the Christ in Christmas

Just how does one do that these days? I don't see the spiritual significance of a tree decked with silver and gold as mentioned in Jeremiah 10:3,4. That particular tradition obviously predates the birth of Messiah and was expressly forbidden for G~D's people. As for Santa, let's see, someone dressed in red and black arriving by means of a place of fire and takes the focus off of Messiah. In the words of the church lady on SNL, "Could it be . . . satan?" And look, if you move the "N" from the middle of the word "Santa" and tack it on the end . . . So, even though I don't believe Messiah or Christ as He is more often referred to, was born in December. Rather I should say, considering Israel is in about the same latitude as my own state, I don't think shepherds were out in the field by night in December, but since we're not actually told the date, today is as good as any. So, in honor of putting the Christ in Christmas, I've baked a wonderful spice cake, home made, I might add, and we'll be singing Happy Birthday soon. We'll not exchange gifts, it's not anyone else's birthday. We'll listen to Handel's Messiah, eat some birthday cake and well, regardless of the actual date, it's my little way of keeping Christ in Christmas.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. the Christmas passage in Luke 2

Thank you Senate and thanks to you too, Mr. President

What a gift! On Christmas Eve when purportedly the approximate 80+% of this nation that claims to be Christian will officially begin their Christmas celebrations, as well as many who do not claim any religion; our Senate will be working overtime and our President will postpone his arrival in Hawaii to bring us health care reform. And when it's all said and done, it's bad legislation all the way around. They keep talking like this is some sort of gift to we the American people.
Well, Merry *expletive* Christmas!
This is just smarmy, the way they are going about this. I have only voted for one republican in my life and that was a local election and a friend. I have never voted on a state level, much less national for a republican candidate, but these guys are really making me believe a change is needed in Washington. If the Republicans hadn't given us the USA Patriot Act, I might be considering them right now and if the Tea Partiers could spell and appeared to have gainful employment, I might consider them, but as it stands I'm afraid this health care reform is going to do what the USA Patriot Act did. We, the cared about and protected people, are just that much closer to absolute captivity for our own good! If there was anything really good for the people, would it need so much sugar coating? I mean these politicians are supposed to be representing us, so why so many amendments and buy-outs for votes? This is either good for the people or it isn't. This is the United States of America, right? If it's good for the people in Iowa, why does the Nebraska representative have to be wined and dined and promised the moon? What in the world does mandatory health care have to do with pumping even more money into New Orleans over Katrina? That was years ago now and health care has nothing to do with rebuilding, or it shouldn't. I just believe there is so much enshrouded in this health care bill, it will be years before all the damage shows, and we'll never get it paid for. If it was good for us, our representatives could agree before the cajoling or maybe if our representatives were good for us, they would need no cajoling. As for me, I'm not into a commercial Christmas, but I certainly wish Congress would take their holiday and I wish the President was already golfing in Hawaii. And what's with all these midnight votes and special meetings? It's as if daylight and sunshine would reveal what our Congress is really all about. If this was good legislation, it could be done in the light of day.
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. New Testament

Our Senators are So Concerned About We The People

. . . that they are staying up nights, to pass legislation that will forever alter everything about our nation and our individuality. What a group! I've got a feeling I know how we will repay them, but I hope we realize how we should repay them. We'll be paying for this legislation with our hard earned tax dollars as well as our lives. I agree that insurance has too much power, but at least with insurance plans, you can change companies. What do we do with government controlled health care? Which moves me to the way I hope we repay them. It's nearly 2010, and some of our Senators will be wanting our votes. I suggest we closely scrutinize their voting record, specifically in regard to this last piece of . . . legislation. With all the amendments and add-ons, I really can't, in all good conscience, even term it true American legislation. It's more of a pork schmorgasbord. Anyone that thinks adding more people to the health care roster with the stipulation that it's against the law to not have insurance is only kidding themselves if they truly believe it will reduce costs. Not only will health care costs increase, so will judicial expenses in prosecuting such cases. Seriously, I don't really think any politician truly believes this legislation will reduce spending, but I do think they are counting on it to increase the power over the people. Legislating health care to be mandatory makes it a legal matter or illegal as the case may be. With the economy the way it is, and American's losing hope as rapidly as they are, they may consider "the public option" of simply going to jail where they don't have to worry about becoming homeless, will have three meals a day, and health care!
I am forgotten . . . I am like a broken vessel. a Psalm of David of Holy Scripture

The Importance of Self-Evaluation

I think our President has given us even more insight into himself and his perspective. In some interview, he said he'd give himself a "B+" for his first year in office. He also included that the reason for no higher mark was the health care reform still in flux and the unemployment rate. These two issues, he has all along, made sure others have been credited for the current status. So, if he hadn't had to "inherit" the economic situation and job market, and didn't have to put up with Congress dragging their feet for health care, I guess he'd give himself an "A." When I first began reading, I thought the B+ was rather arrogant. Now, I know he speaks eloquently and reads a teleprompter with great giftedness, but every time I read a quote or hear his voice, all I hear is how great everything would be if he made all the decisions. He just always sounds like he thinks he's the greatest thing to come along since "sliced bread & peanut butter." I just don't happen to agree with him, but then I don't have his generous portion of self-esteem, either. I think before he gives himself another job performance evaluation, he might consider some of us listening do not regard arrogance to be deserving of high marks. Actually, arrogance is getting to be quite common, and common is another term for average or below. I believe average, at best, is only a "C."
Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

A Special Day in History

The Bill of Rights became official, December 15, 1791. I believe it truly should be celebrated. Instead of Christmatizing Hanukkah or trying to give sanctified meaning to the various pagan rituals that have been woven into Christmas, why not just have an American holiday in December and leave the religious observances to those that embrace the observances of their religion. Bill of Rights day could be the essence of political correctness. No need to get huffy about Hanukkah, snooty about Kwanzaa or offended in protection of Christmas trees. We can each remember our religious holidays as our faith teaches and everyone can say "Happy Bill of Rights Day," or "Happy Holidays" which considering the first amendment pretty much covers the holiday expressions and our right to express them, as well as the religion we claim for the expression. The deal to remember in Bill of Rights Day, is everyone else has the same right . . . and that truly is one of the greatest things about America. Christians do not have to say Happy Holidays, they can say Merry Christmas. The Jewish population and the Messianic remnant can say Happy Hanukkah, and although I don't know much about it, those that celebrate Kwanzaa can proclaim their holiday greeting, and for those that just can't get enough celebration or buy enough gifts with just one holiday can celebrate them all. And for the American Scrooges; they can bah-hum-bug through the month, because of the ratification of the first 10 amendments to the Constitution. Truly something to be celebrated! It seems odd that here in America, the same month the Bill of Rights took effect, we are now choosing to be offended over nearly everything that is said with free speech and freedom of religion.
And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. New Testament

The Two Most Powerful People in the Land

Considering the impact of various people in the news, I have come to the conclusion that Oprah Winfrey and Joe Lieberman are the two most powerful people in this country. Oprah has millions of people watching her, reading her recommended books, buying her magazines and she owns her own cable station now, I believe. Clearly a powerful woman rising from a local Chicago radio station and movie debut as an abused woman in "The Color Purple." She's come such "a long way, baby" she didn't even bother to promote the first viable woman candidate for president. But she hedged her bet properly, as she now has the "president's ear" and his gracious hospitality. She and Michelle looked great on either side of Mr. President in front of one of the White House Christmas trees. Now, on to Joe Lieberman. We all knew he was no longer a democrat, shortly after he lost his vice presidential bid with Al Gore. He went independent for the next election, sort of like the rumors of a third party for Sarah Palin after her failed VP run. Joe Lieberman, bar none, is the absolutely most powerful man in the Senate. His vote is crucial for either side and he knows it and he plays it. I'm truly glad he wasn't our last VP, as he doesn't appear to handle power any more graciously than Dick Cheney did. But I digress . . . He is a powerful man, the most powerful in the Senate, and every piece of legislation has to pass the Senate long before it lands on the President's desk. Basically, through my life time, the President has simply become a figurehead, but he does deal with powerful people and this President has two powerful people right here in this country, that truly seem more powerful than he is. Without Oprah, I'm not sure he would even be President and with Joe not worried about celebrating Christmas, and running the Senate, President Obama may not get his health care reform before the holiday recess. People in power are not necessarily elected in a national election.
And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not YHVH . . . History in Holy Scripture

Our President Has the Answer

Does anyone actually remember the question? I received a post from a forum in which I participate, that haughtily stated our Big Government has come to the rescue and things are looking better, thanks to Big Government. From what I understand about this latest and greatest news, the banks and insurance companies that received bail-outs and are still in business are giving some money back, and the President said, "with interest!" According to the Fed Chairman, the interest rate is 0%! And before the bail-out, this money that has been paid back wasn't even in print. So, in a nut shell, our Big Government printed money that was basically worth the paper it was written on, loaned it to greedy corporations who paid greedy executives and after claiming no one knew where the money went, they've suddenly come up with it and returned it or paid it back, or whatever we are calling it today. So now, our government has 200 some billion dollars in the coffers that wasn't even real money last year. Yeah! Big Government!
Your false gods will not keep you safe . . . a Prophet of Holy Scripture

Okay, Now I Think I Finally Do Have it Figured Out!

With nearly 13% of Americans over the age of 65, 18% disabled, almost 25% under 18, and now over 10% of the American work force unemployed, the government is taking care of quite a number of us. I'm not saying all the children under 18 are receiving government aid, but many of them are and most of them do receive public education, so . . . Upon further checking, I discovered 7.5% of Americans are government employees and approximately 1.25% are either active in the military or retired and receiving benefits for themselves and in many cases, their families. All of this adds up to nearly 75% of the American population, collectively not producing anything toward the GDP, but collecting something from the "common purse." These figures do not count the cops and robbers, who are also either paid or housed on public money. Okay, I still laugh at all the people collecting Social Security that are against Socialism, and everyone on Medicare that abhors the idea of socialized medicine, but I digress . . . Back to the point of all this. From what I could glean in minimal research, correctional facilities and health care are the main American employers in many locations. That is not saying government employees and military are not earning their money, but their earnings comes out of our tax dollars, so thus, by default they also are dependent upon our government's way of doing business. Now, it would seem, it has finally dawned upon someone that this present way of doing business is truly unsustainable, so the government needs to collect some assets or at least have control of some revenue producing business. Obviously the government already controls prisons and jails, and they are not financially self-sustaining, either, not to mention the fact that they house yet another 1% of the American population being cared for. So the last group of Americans to cause to be dependent upon the government would be health care workers and with reform, recipients. America's health care already has fostered a real mentality of dependency and submission! Oh, I hear people all the time talk about what they won't put up with and what they don't want to do or receive from a doctor, but ultimately, I'm the only person I know that has actually stood up and said, "NO!" to their faces. Believe me, I've heard some big talk, but when the chips are down, they either cancel their appointment or cave in compliance and they end up with big medical bills that they are stuck paying, and complaining about. This fear and submission will ultimately give our government the last stand needed for total control. The largest reason for personal bankruptcies is medical bills, so with health care reform, the government will run a certain amount of the provision, as well as put a choke hold on insurance, which will ultimately only serve to raise health care costs, which will put more Americans into poverty, or their assets in the hands of "the provider." Health care reform truly is about control and money, no matter how you look at it!
"Is it your desire to get well?" Words of Messiah

Curious

I can't help but be curious about the accident involving Tiger Woods. Oh sure, the timing and the circumstances seem to just scream "tabloid material," but I was really more curious about the involvement of the Highway Patrol. Here in our state, the only reason any law enforcement officials come on private property regarding autos is to give a ticket for parking in the disabled space or some sort of wreckless circumstances, like going off the road into someone else's yard or tree. I had no idea the Florida law enforcement had so much available man power. I don't think I have to investigate this situation too thoroughly to detect a few inconsistencies with the Woods' statements and the timing alone indicates a story they don't want investigated. My guess is, Tiger lost control of the SUV when the golf club went through the back window, because Mrs. Tiger is aware of some activity or social life that does not meet her approval. Now, granted, it's only a guess, but considering the fact, there are remote and keyless entries for just about every vehicle on the road, I'm sure she had access to a better mode of entry than a golf club through two windows . . . Considering the fact Mr. Tiger wasn't going fast enough for air bags to deploy, yet got injured, and there is no report of drugs or alcohol, indicates he may have been suddenly distracted. I'm just guessing a golf club through a rear window would be distracting. I'm no detective, but then again, I'm not really seeing that this situation requires a detective. It sounds more like some sort of domestic issue that went beyond the closed doors and then got a bit messy. If it were my call, I'd suggest the detective start investigating more pressing matters in the state, like missing children and loose pythons. We really don't need law enforcement spending their time getting information for the tabloids.
I always end these posts with a Scripture, but something just keeps coming to my mind. A Sunday School teacher asked her class if they each could name one of the Ten Commandments. One of the children raised their hand and stated, "Thou shalt not admit adultery."
. . . wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. New Testament

Politicizing Greed Doesn't Solve the Problem

Basically, every time I read the headlines, we have one group of people who do not want to pay for the needs of the other group of people and we have the other group of people that think everyone should share, but don't actually have anything of their own to share. Then there's the average American just trying to take care of what they do have to best of their ability and hope their job hangs on, and they can continue to make their house payment and pay their light bill. What I don't understand in a country that supposedly espouses the rule of the majority, how it turns out the extreme minorities on both ends of the argument are the ones that cause legislation on all of us. I don't want health care reform, legislated and I don't really care to be rich. I would like to have just enough to share with those in need. I'm not talking about the perpetual state of needy, which is really sort of greed turned inside out, but just those that hit hard times from time to time while they are trying to take care of their lives. And I'd like just enough to leave an inheritance to my grandchildren some day. I'm not talking a big one, as a matter of fact, I think coming in under the death tax would be great for them and me, but our government truly seems to believe, and this is either side of the aisle, they know better than we do, how to make decisions for our lives. I don't want to live like a high rolling politician, but fortunately that won't be a problem. The high rolling politicians don't want "we the people" living like they do, either. What we the people need to do is realize our dependency is increasing all around. We depend upon the government for almost everything and we depend upon foreign trade for all of our stuff we buy with credit cards. The only thing Americans are managing to decide on their own to make is little Americans, and then either get on some sort of program, or take them to day care to go to work, to buy them stuff.
And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. New Testament

So Many Books, So Few Still Read

I'm amazed at the number of books that are being written and the continuing increasing level of illiteracy in our country. Well, and those that can read, that simply do not choose to for various reasons like Cable TV and Gameboys. Now that Sarah is on her book tour and Carrie Prejean has come out with her book, I just can't help but think these books will be used as a segue to higher ambitions. I mean it worked for Barack Obama. I can't say much about those that believe they have a "book in them," just waiting to be written, considering I've happened upon to more than one within the depths of my soul, but what happened to the old days when someone really just wrote for the sake of sharing a concept or idea or just the fire in their bones? It seems so many books are written as a stepping stone. I still read, although not as avidly as I used to, but I really don't have any desire to read these two latest books. I love biographies and non-fiction, but I have a real problem with the premise in which both of these books are presented, and I don't know that there is a category for it yet in the Dewey decimal system. I simply don't want to read about someone that has used their body for a career, talk about their deep spiritual convictions against other's lifestyles, nor do I want to read about someone that leaves her kids home to raise themselves because she still needs attention. I guess, as an author that writes, literally from the fire in my bones, I just can't relate to what seems to be the latest motive for writing; power and money. Writing used to be a part of the world of creativity and inspiration, not politics and commerce. Maybe, just maybe, I'll curl up this evening with a book . . . to read or write.
. . . in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones . . . Prophet of Holy Scripture

More Misfiguring

I'm truly beginning to wonder if this present administration has any idea of the value of a dollar. I mean, we all know that American presidents tend to come from pretty comfy backgrounds, or at least, from exceptional opportunities provided by others. We know Clinton came from rather humble beginnings, but he was definitely gleaned and preened for great things, as a young man, by the party. I know, I've seen the pictures. Then there were both of the Bushes around him, both generations were born with a silver spoon in their mouths. But back to the present administration. If he was attending private, foreign schools at the elementary age, he wasn't living the average life, much less the average American life. And from what the campaign revealed, he's had several well made connections along the way to enhance his life of upward mobility. All of the facts, clearly indicate, this man has no idea what a bottom line even is. He doesn't understand the value of the dollar compared to a hard day's work. After reading some foreign reports, it's really quite clear that he values power, authority and opulence enough to risk 30 death threats a day, or rather allow the secret service to prevent or block 30 death threats a day. Even as I type this, I am more convinced that he has no concept of the average American existence of putting bread on the table and a roof over the head of his family. After the incredible miscalculation of the cash for clunkers deal, as in not nearly enough funds to last; we now read that the so-called tax break many people received will have to be paid this year. That's right for the couples that have two incomes or the single that has two jobs or those on social security that also work, that little extra in the paycheck starting last April, may result in a little extra owed on the 1040. Now, I'm not saying he's sinister or doing this to the American public, I just think he's about as familiar with the value of a dollar, as Sarah Palin is about national politics.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? New Testament

Now I'm Concerned

I had stated in a previous post that I didn't want to turn the rampage at Fort Hood into blog material, but the latest headline has changed my mind. Many of us continue to think of and pray for those that have lost loved ones and for those that continue to recover. I am quite concerned about what I am reading regarding the alleged shooter, however. It seems several superiors were uncomfortable or displeased with his attitude and conversations and there had been some security concerns about him. I read that he was actually sent to Fort Hood because there would be enough coverage there to keep an eye on him. Now, I realize I'm getting my information from the media, so who knows . . . But I've noticed something else in this tragic situation. There's already talk and headlines using the word, "psychotic," which sounds like the ground work for an insanity defense. There is much conflicting information, but I guess I see both sides to the insanity defense. Can a human being decide to open fire in a crowd and be in their "right mind?" If someone premeditates that act, what's wrong with their mind, to begin with? And the fact that he's a psychiatrist tells me he'll know just all the right crazy stuff to do and say.
Ultimately the Department of Defense will have to make some sort of determination in this case as to how the citizens cannot even open a bank account without security clearance, but a man that has caused concern, and been rumored to be in touch with some anti-American sorts can have full security clearance in our military. And what about all those soldiers that he counseled? Where are they about now? How are they coping with this? What questions has it raised for their adjustment back to civilian life or back for another deployment?
Not to get too political here, but Robert Gates appears to be in the same shoes as George Tenet was in the Bush administration, from the Clinton administration. The "designated survivor" from the Bush administration to the Obama administration is at the head of sorting out how this tragedy may have been stopped but wasn't.
And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another . . . the Revelation

Topics

Although I am not going to turn the horrific rampage that occurred last week at Fort Hood, into a blog topic, I do want to express my sympathy for all those that lost loved ones. I am praying for all those that are still recuperating, as well as those just beginning the grieving process. I also pray that this does not ignite other incidents based upon religious extremism.
The House passed the Health Care Reform bill, but the Senate hasn't passed theirs yet, and then when the Senate does, some committee meets to combine the two bills and then see if the combined version will pass either group of Congress. So, I'm just wondering what other interesting bills are being passed while we're watching Health Care Reform Puppet Theatre.
I think I did find one bill going on behind the puppet theatre, and that is some financial regulatory bill that is not making many regular headlines but looking to be signed before the new year. It has to do with the FDIC! I've prophesied some calamity that I thought would be economical or should I say, I hoped that was all it would be, around the end of the year. As the power and control continue to be secluded into a smaller and smaller group of authoritarians, I have a concern about the food supply.
My state is huge on this ethanol business. So big, that the cattle are now being fed ethanol by-products. That's right, what ever is left of the corn squeezin' and the stalks gets pressed into some sort of liquid that is now cattle food. I've heard varying perspectives of this, but ultimately, I have to agree with my ancestors, because on this particular issue, they seem to be in agreement with G~D.
I go to one of the Indian nations in Oklahoma to buy gasoline because it's ethanol free. The Indians know corn wasn't created to burn, it's food for man and cattle. We are about to progress ourselves right out of the picture!
He causeth the grain to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; a Psalm of Holy Scripture

Last Comment this Week About the Economy

Unemployment has risen to the previous all time high. Unfortunately back in 1983, two things were different. Unemployment benefits were not being extended for the 4th time, and President Reagan simply added the military statistics to the employment roles and voila, the unemployment rate went down immediately. Sadly, today however; the military is already figured in and stretched beyond the limit of the troops while some folks are literally hanging on for one more unemployment extension. Oh, not to mention the age for enlistment in the military is at an all time high, as well. I think you can be in your 40s now and still enlist. I don't know how that works out in boot camp, but . . . the solutions here over 25 years later just aren't changing the facts. Actually the facts don't change, but this time we can't even move anything to appear to be better, and yet, we are told the economy is improving. We have been told the recession is apparently ending. What an interesting concept here just weeks before the biggest shopping month of the year. Will the proclamation of our leaders be enough to make people go out and spend like they usually do for the holidays? Will unemployed people actually cheer themselves up, shopping and spending money? Will the families of those that have been deployed multiple times actually spend money and celebrate as if their loved ones were home with them? I guess only time will tell. Just because "they" tell us it's better, we have eyes, we have ears. We need to look around and see if we think it's better. Frankly, all I can see is people grasping at governmental straws and getting the short one, every time.
. . .and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore, and no man shall save thee. Torah of Holy Scripture

What is the Basis?

The article began "With the recession apparently over . . ." Really now? I know that information cannot be based upon the American economy. Unemployment is still at an all time high with unemployment benefits extended twice now and still running out. The groceries aren't any cheaper and the stress level for we the people isn't any less. There are a number of people that didn't get a raise this year, but were "just glad to have a job!" And even more that are pretty nervous about whether or not they will even continue to have a job. Banks are paying next to nothing for CDs and savings, yet not very willing to make loans either. The credit card industry has a real heads up before the enacted legislation is actually enforceable. So rates are going up and credit availability is going down. But the recession is apparently over. Let's not forget the big bank that got the big TARP filed bankruptcy and many of the other recipients of the TARP don't even know what happened to the money. And they are taking care of everyone else's money! The statement containing the words "with the recession apparently over" must be based upon something the ordinary folks are not privy to. Gasoline is going up, health care is ever increasing, as is health care coverage. Our security is gone, our income is shaky, our production is all but ended, and our money is not worth much on the global market, but the gold has changed hands, those in the "radio talk show know," now have gold rather than stock. So is that the basis for the statement beginning with "With the recession apparently over . . .?"
Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Feminism vs. Family Values

I don't really see the difference sometimes. Oh, I know, feminism is supposed to be a certain type of woman that only cares about their own personal advancement in their job, their circle of influence, and their own agenda. Whereas, the women with family values are portrayed to be home loving, submissive to their husbands, raising their children, and if they have any aspirations toward school or career, it's put on hold until the children are grown. Now, it seems in our society, both of those extremes are just a caricature or parody of a couple of generations ago, but . . . I've noticed in everything I read there is still a strong feminist among us who is absolutely loved by the family values women and loathed by the career women. Funny, I don't get it at all, except maybe the career women are jealous and the housewives are just believing what they want to or what they are told. Sarah Palin is the strongest feminist I've ever seen. She's had five kids and a husband to raise them. She's had how many careers through her children's young lives and I saw in one of her interviews that the 6 year old was in the kitchen making a cake. You could tell by watching her, that wasn't the first time that little girl had been alone in the kitchen. Even when Sarah had the chance to work from home, as in the Governor's Mansion, she chose to commute every day and leave her kids at home in another town. And when all the questions about who little Trig's mother was, she was clearly agenda oriented the day of his birth, as in speaking and traveling long after she had some questionable symptoms and already knowing he was special needs. Feminist or Family Values? It's really hard to tell, now that they've been redefined by the religious right-wing.
She looketh well to the ways of her household . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Economic Base

The latest report that I've read indicates the economy is no longer declining, actually those in the know in Washington feel that it may even be looking up, but . . . unemployment is going to get worse for the next several months. Well, as I've mentioned before, I don't have a degree in mathematics, but if employment is going to continue to decline, then I'm guessing income is going to follow that direction, therefore it would appear that the American economy is not based upon production or the income and spending of the average American. So, if the economy can improve as the employment declines, what is the base of our economy? Fewer jobs must mean less produced and less produced means less available product, not to mention fewer jobs usually indicates fewer purchasers, so again I ask, what is moving the American economy out of the dismal, declining rut it's been in, if not good old American know how and ingenuity? And oh, by the way, CIT has filed for bankruptcy. Just one short year after we bailed them out with a TARP, they took the money, paid the executives, raised the interest rates and filed bankruptcy. This is one of the signs of an improving economy? Whatever this improvement claim is based up and whomever is making the claim is not figuring this based on America, alone. I'm wondering if there are any American based economic statistics even included in this figuring. So, if the economy is improving, I'm guessing the fat cats have found new investors and we the people have figured out how to live more meagerly and just keep moving. I knew the way Candidate Obama referred to the Middle Class, as the working class, that we were in for some change . . . like the absence of the Middle Class, but it looks as if 'working class' is about to become a term of the past also, and rather quickly I might add.
YHVH shall open unto thee his good treasure . . .and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow . . . if that thou hearken unto the commandments of YHVH thy G~D, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them: Torah of Holy Scripture

Two Wrongs Don't Make a Right

This story was fraught with so many wrong things, I couldn't even form my opinion. Then there is also the factor that my opinion makes no difference, but I needed to make peace with the "what should have been done" in the particular news item I was mulling over. I awoke to an hour of Jim Bohannon's late night show re-run at 5:00 am. It was in listening to his thoughts and the comments of his callers that really grabbed my attention in this news item. Seems a young man, a former Wal-Mart employee had apprehended a shop-lifter, after the shop-lifter pulled a knife. The alleged stolen merchandise was recovered and the next day this young man was fired. At first I was just furious about the treatment of this young man, because first and foremost, I enjoy not liking Wal-Mart. Well, I'm an American, we love to hate, we like to dislike, and Wal-Mart made my list with RFID tags, years ago and the big secret digital storehouse in Jane, MO. I haven't been in a Wal-Mart for over 5 years. Now back to the story. The more I thought about it and the more I looked for information on the topic, the more I found it to be less news worthy than I had originally thought at 5am. Or at least the newsworthiness of it changed for me. The fact that Wal-Mart has a "do not pursue" policy regarding shop lifting indicates they are going to draw a number of young men that just really have a fascination with a badge and the appearance of authority. I mean if the policy is to not apprehend, the security department or asset protection associates or whatever special title Wal-Mart has given them, the guys in uniform are simply props to deter the basically honest from temptation. But there is a policy in writing and shown to the employees through their training. We've all felt the disdain for some whipper snapper in a uniform throwing his weight around. When he was fired, he was told this was a non-rehirable offense. He said, in an interview, he can't even come back at 65 to be a Wal-Mart Greeter. And now, as the day has progressed, I can't help but see a different side of this. At 5am he was a mistreated hero, but now I have to admit; Rules are rules. It is neither admirable nor heroic to disregard the rules to enforce rules on others. Breaking the rules to catch someone else that broke the rules is not security, it's anarchy.
For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged . . .

As in the Days of Noah

Gonna preach here just a bit, and the text is from ahajokes.com. I found this at www.ahajokes.com, but never could get the page to open, so having read it before, I cut and pasted, below. This past week, the Torah reading was about Noah, and of course, to correlate there are words by Messiah in the New Testament. He spoke of the end of days being like the days of Noah. Since we have the promise from G~D that the world will not be destroyed by flood again, I found the words of this text to be absolutely prophetic.

Noah's Ark in Today's Society...

The Lord speaks to Noah and says: "In one year, I am going to make it rain and cover the whole Earth with water until all is destroyed. But I want you to save the righteous people and two of every kind of living thing on the Earth. Therefore, I am commanding you to build an Ark."
In a flash of lightning, G-d delivered the specifications for an Ark.
Fearful and trembling, Noah took the plans and agreed to build the Ark.
"Remember," said the Lord, "You must complete the Ark and bring everything aboard in one year."
Exactly one year later, a fierce storm cloud formed and all the seas of the earth went into a tumult. The Lord saw Noah sitting in his front yard weeping.
"Noah." He shouted, "Where is the Ark?"
"Lord, please forgive me!" cried Noah. "I did my best but there were big problems. First, I had to get a permit for construction and your plans did not comply with the codes. I had to hire an engineering firm and redraw the plans.
Then I got into a fight with OSHA over whether or not the Ark needed a fire sprinkler system and floatation devices.
Then my neighbor objected, claiming I was violating zoning ordinances by building the Ark in my front yard, so I had to get a variance from the city planning commission.
I had problems getting enough wood for the Ark, because there was a ban on cutting trees to protect the Spotted Owl. I finally convinced the U.S. Forest Service that I needed the wood to save the owls.
However, the Fish and Wildlife Service won't let me catch any owls. So, no owls.
The carpenters formed a union and went out on strike. I had to negotiate a settlement with the National Labor Union. Now I have 16 carpenters on the Ark, but still no owls.
When I started rounding up the other animals, I got sued by an animal rights group. They objected to me only taking two of each kind aboard.
Just when I got the suit dismissed, the EPA notified me that I could not complete the Ark without filing an environmental impact statement on your proposed flood. They didn't take very kindly to the idea that they had no jurisdiction over the conduct of the Creator of the universe.
Then the Army Corps of Engineer demanded a map of the proposed new flood plain. I sent them a globe.
Right now, I am trying to resolve a complaint filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission that I am practicing discrimination by not taking godless, unbelieving people aboard!
The IRS has seized all my assets, claiming that I'm building the Ark in preparation to flee the country to avoid paying taxes.
I just got a notice from the State that I owe some kind of user tax and failed to register the Ark as a 'recreational water craft.'
Finally the ACLU got the courts to issue an injunction against further construction of the Ark, saying that since G-d is flooding the earth, it is a religious event and therefore unconstitutional.
I really don't think I can finish the Ark for another 5 or 6 years!" Noah wailed.
The sky began to clear, the sun began to shine and the seas began to calm. A rainbow arched across the sky.
Noah looked up hopefully. "You mean you are not going to destroy the Earth, Lord?"
"No," said the Lord sadly. "The government already has!"
. . . neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth. Torah of Holy Scripture

Murder?

I'm getting just a bit confused on definitions here, so I'll relay the story, as a matter of fact, I'm going to post it right here. It's a very short article.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,569572,00.html?test=latestnews

>>>LOS ANGELES — Authorities say a 37-year-old Los Angeles man has been arrested on suspicion of murder for the death of an unborn child believed to be his.
Police said in a press release that Joshua Woodward was arrested Sunday in Los Angeles and is being held on $2 million bail in a county jail.
Police say the arrest came after an investigation on Monday revealed "suspicious circumstances of a miscarriage." Investigators estimate the fetus was in its 13th week.
Police released no information on the mother or the circumstances of the child's death.
The release says Woodward is believed to have ties to Miami and Chicago and detectives are also seeking information in those cities.
Investigators are set to present the case to prosecutors on Tuesday.
A deputy at the jail had no information on an attorney for Woodward.<<<

First, at 13 weeks, I'm not saying I agree, but I thought, legally, it was a choice, not a child. Second, I thought murder charges could only be leveled if the unborn child was statistically viable. Third, $2 million dollar bail? Really? I just can't help but think this is some sort of political spectacle. Although I am sorry for the mother and clearly the child was unprotected and apparently unwanted, but I don't understand the legal logistics when abortion is an option in this gestational time frame. I mean, this would still be considered the first trimester. I am not an advocate for abortion. I don't believe in any invasive medical procedures. Considering the laws of the land. Is this man guilty of murder or practicing medicine without a license?
If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

Controversy

I truly think the American pastime is now arguing and accusing. We just love controversy. Even those that prefer TV or radio, enjoy the programs that "stimulate thinking" which translates to regurgitating something said by a talking head, to argue about. I had a bit of fun this morning with my producer. I did a remote this morning, so we didn't have our usual rapport that includes facial expression and body language. Every topic I introduced was controversial and you could tell, he just wasn't sure where I was going to go with any topic. I have the greatest producer in the world, he's laid back, on top of his game, usually cool and calm, but I could hear him sweating this morning. First, he'd said something through the Trading Post show and his callers were getting on to him about it. I always make notes and for whatever reason, I'm thinking G~D, the very first line of my outline addressed what a great job he did on Trading Post. Next I mentioned medical marijuana as part of health care reform. That was a big uh oh! I mentioned it purely from a revenue perspective and to put the drug cartels out of business. He was doing his best to be supportive while hoping I'd change the subject. Next I brought up the materialism of our holidays coming up and speaking against materialism sort of rials the advertisers, so we moved along again. The next thing I brought up was hearing G~D give the warning about our holy with profane and spiritual with secular, again addressing materialism and big business. I didn't promote anything or deride anyone, it was just simply making observations on controversial issues, rather than speaking against anyone or going on a tangent. It seemed to me that the 30 minutes just flew, I'm not sure Dan felt that way.
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. New Testament

Wondering About the News

I'm beginning to wonder just how much of the news is even news. So many of the headlines seem to read like the front of the Enquirer or the Star at the grocery store check-out. As I'm getting the show together for tomorrow and doing a bit of preparing for some other projects, I can't help but wonder as I peruse the "news" how much of this is simply unnecessary information designed to do nothing more than create a stir and sell ads. And I simply can't get over the news agencies that denounce the other news agencies! As if the one telling us we can't believe the media doesn't see the irony in that statement. I discovered a proud moment in my own life, in terms of my participation in media. I have a radio show that airs weekly on Thursdays. I've always heard my producer say the words, but it didn't really click until a couple of weeks ago. When my show ends, my producer says, "Call letters, now joining the Glenn Beck show, already in progress." I find it quite the ego boost to know my show actually pre-empts 30 minutes of the Glenn Beck show. I mean, to listen to him tell it, nobody is supposed to quiet him. He's quite sure we all should want to listen to his shrill rambling and sobbing accusations. Well for those that can get the gist of his message in less than 3 hours a day, we have options. Turns out I don't need political clout or accusations or any other con-artist, charlatan approach. I simply have a show called "Choosing Life," which would only make sense to pre-empt some of the brouhaha!
The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart, and good news invigorates the bones. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Now We're Talkin' Health Care Reform

President Obama has given new guidelines telling the feds to back off on arrest and prosecution of medical marijuana. I addressed this, in part, at my other blogsite, Rhapsody Road. Finally, something he and I agree on. This manufactured war on drugs from the Reagan years has done nothing but increase the number of prisons our country now has. And why would a so called G~Dly nation outlaw something HE created? Pot isn't like meth or LSD, or even drugs processed from plants. Pot isn't a composite of chemicals or cleaning supplies. Pot is the plant and the finished product, like; created just that way. I've always thought the war on drugs was really just to manage and create jobs. Health care in rehab, and guards in prison. And let us not forget an entirely new Cabinet Post for the executive branch of our ever expanding government. Legalizing pot makes sense on so many levels, but specifically economically. If pot is legalized for medical use, or just legalized in general, it becomes an agricultural crop. If pot is legalized, it becomes taxable. Pot is still being used, now; but the government is missing the revenue. As far as more power to drug cartels if it's legalized . . . is the most ridiculous of arguments. Drug cartels are in business to deliver illegal goods. Moonshine and the runners thereof; basically went out of business when prohibition was repealed. I'm guessing the same thing would happen with drug cartels, at least where marijuana is concerned. As a natural girl with MS, I'm all for the legalization of it, but my state is far from open minded, so until it's legal, I'll not be partaking, but I'm all about this portion of health care reform.
And G~D said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

No COLA

I've been just a bit cynical about our Social Security System for some time now, but I have to admit, I've refigured this a different way, and naturally gotten different results. As we know, the primary group of people that do not consider social security benefits to be in the same category as welfare, are the ones collecting. And the group of people that are collecting truly believe they paid into it for their own retirement. The social security system was set up for one generation to pay in, to support the previous generation. That is an unarguable fact. The "fact" that it has been redefined does not change the original fact of intent. At the risk of sounding disrespectful, I've seen several professional photographs of my grandma in her younger days after she "went to town." Now, while she was waiting tables and could afford her portrait to be taken many times over, her parents spent 18 months living in their chicken house, without chickens, while building another house due to the loss of their main homestead in the depression. All of this occurred basically in the same time frame. My great grandparents were the first generation eligible for Social Security benefits. That generation did not pay in, but they literally, took care of the previous generation and provided 16 members of the industrial revolution work force for every one person that collected, while still basically providing all their own food. Clearly the first generation to collect did contribute. Then somehow the very next generation got it in their head that they were paying into their own retirement and many of them are still collecting. My grandma, in her 90's, is certainly not alone in her generation. The nursing homes are filled with people handing over their social security checks for skilled care. Now, moving right along into the next generation who is now retired and collecting what they paid in, plus they have pensions. I'm ready to do the math. I'm not even going to address the pre-medicare years of FICA. This is simple and since I had found data, I never actually did the math. The average worker by the end of the 60's was having 4% of their pay withheld for social security and their employer was matching that, making 8% of their income going into that fund. That basically boils down to 1 month of collection for every year of work. So, for those that spent 40 years in the work force and have it in their mind, they were paying in for themselves, there should be 40 months to be collected. That's 3 years and 4 months. So, in the many blogs that I have made mention of the 13 months, that was the original data collected, but after doing the math and crunching the numbers, if every generation is only considering themselves, and this is America, after all, so that would be the case for the most part. Each worker is entitled to collect 1 month for every year they worked! And oh, by the way, my new math doesn't include a raise and apparently the government agrees with me. There will be no COLA this year, but I'm sure there will be plenty of programs to subsidize one more senior benefit. While I'm on this tangent, I was appalled at the grocery store to discover that my husband and I could have a senior discount on a certain day. Yeah, two of us, well into the comfort years of middle aged and not underfed are entitled to a discount on our groceries while the young struggling families who have more withholding than any generation has ever seen, never get a discount day.
With all the senior discounts and continuing high unemployment, meaning less withholding, why should there be a COLA?
And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated. Torah of Holy Scripture

Zero Tolerance is Ludicrous

After reading about another situation in which an Eagle Scout has been suspended from school for 20 days over having his "survival kit" in his car, which contained a sleeping bag, water, C-rations, and a small pocket knife, a gift from his grandfather, I'm just sick. The man that made this decision, George W. Goodwin, appears to not have any idea what it might mean to be a scout, stands by his authority and his right to be devoid of reason. I, have now come to the conclusion that there is an agenda to emotionally emasculate every male in the country. It started with the ERA and now every real interest a little boy would have is associated with violence, so we hand them game boys and teach them video violence. Here is a quote in the article about Mr. Zero Tolerance, as the Superintendent is referred to.
"Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school" for engaging in violent conduct, which includes merely "possessing a weapon."
This is the second article I've read just this week. I have determined, I need a bumper sticker that states:
I have Zero Tolerance for Zero Tolerance!
. . . the people could not discern . . . Holy Scripture

Amero . . . Amore'

Now that swine flu vaccines are on the horizon, I'm beginning to get the conspiranoid e-mails about the money. This country just seems to be obsessed with being religiously fearful. We love our "In God We Trust" coins! And you better believe our money is worth the paper it's written on! The latest fear is about a world currency and how that will come about. Well, let's consider this logically, shall we? First, currency is only a means for transaction and as Bush 41 so poignantly explained back in the early 90's, this is a global economy. The idea of a world currency has been around for the better part of two decades and was a very real concept at the end of last century. Neither the UN or Barack Obama have hardly introduced something new! What I really don't understand is what the typical e-mail receiving American is all upset about . . . Americans, themselves, have all but eliminated American currency. And according to the e-mails I've read and the commentaries I've heard, the possibly coming currency is referred to as "amero" which sounds to be an association to America. It was the second Bush administration that enacted the agreement between Canada and Mexico for some North American Continental connection. We have e-transactions, credit cards, debit cards, online banking, and checks for purchasing products made in China, India, and Bangladesh. Now that I think of it, checks are practically an antiquated procedure. So, what's the big protest about eliminating American currency, considering the fact, we Americans are rarely using American currency? Most checks are e-deposits and many transactions are e-withdrawals. I couldn't be sitting here on this blog without an Internet Service Provider knowing my credit card number or having the routing numbers on my checking account. So why be all upset about a new UN currency, when we, Americans, have already replaced our currency with plastic and electronic transactions and debt? I think the one thing that concerns me the most is the fact that oil appears to be the new gold standard and America isn't producing much, but is very dependent on the countries that do. Basically, the latest fear has made me realize we simply love our materialism and don't want anyone messing with the way we do things. We expect the world to continue to honor our currency. It is, after all, as I stated earlier; worth the very paper it's written on. Say, for example, if gasoline is 10 cents a gallon in Venezuela while it's $2.25 here in America, will the American dollar only be worth about a nickel, in the global economy? And what happens when what little America produces will only be worth a penny???
Now that's a reason to send a fearful e-mail . . .
. . . A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil . . . the Revelation

More Profoundness from Our Public School System

A six year old boy has been suspended for bringing a "weapon" to school. This school is one of the many that has a "zero tolerance" policy. I'm so sick of the word tolerance being thrown around in all the many ways it is used for and against freedom. This little six year old is so proud of going to school and likes it so well, he often wears a suit and tie just to express his enthusiasm and respect. Now, for his big "weapons" charge. He's also proud to be in the Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts, I would say, by his age. He was so excited about that, that he brought the knife, spoon, fork, gadget to eat lunch and that's where the insanity begins. The teacher took it from him, gave it to the principal and the rest is simply ridiculous. The school officials have ruled that he must be suspended and attend 45 days in Reform school. This little boy reads above his level, his math skills are accelerated. He has never been a discipline problem in school. He's active in sports and church, and was clearly looking forward to Cub Scouts. His mom is Co-President of the PTA, his step-father is a good role model and his dad is active in his life. This just makes me cringe. How can anyone be so stupid and get a teaching certificate? And now that we see it is, in fact, possible; where do we go from here? I, for one, would not want someone that appears to lack the ability to actually think, walking my dog, much less teaching my child. And a principal that has this sort of reaction and a School Board that stands behind such outlandish decisions? Knowing this will scar the child for life, either way it goes, just what has our public school system saved the children from? The little boy was going to eat lunch with his camping tool. Big deal!
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. New Testament

Does It Truly Require Legislation?

I think I'm finally getting a grasp on all this legislation. Our politicians appear to have nothing else to do and we have apparently become a self-centered society void of compassion for others. The idea that children with allergies have to lobby Congress to make laws for their safe and comfortable school attendance just seems unnecessary. As I read the article, the kids said if they can get whatever law passed, that they have lobbied, then every year at the beginning of the year and when they change schools they and their parents can meet with the teachers, etc. to determine the best course of action, atmosphere, and diet to address their allergies. It really takes laws for teachers to care about the kids' allergies and asthma? Really? It requires federal legislation for parents of affected children to be heard by the public school system? Again, really? I find that both sad and disgusting. I remember kids with allergies and asthma when I was in school and the teachers did everything they could to keep the kids comfortable and avoid exacerbation. As a matter of a fact, in elementary school, if we kids saw someone in distress, we went and got a teacher to help them. When we got older, we pitched in and offered assistance, ourselves! Without any laws or anything! We operated on just the simple basic idea that someone having a serious allergic reaction or asthma attack needed assistance, and if something triggered that reaction, if it was possible, we avoided it, moved it, or threw it outdoors. It wasn't tattling and it wasn't butting in, it was caring about another human being. I'm getting a little sick of a tolerant, supposedly caring society, that requires laws to take proper precaution and measures for people to simply be thoughtful of another human being. Why doesn't a so called Christian nation simply live by the Christian text?
And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. New Testament

It Just Doesn't Add Up to Me

A video of the IDF soldier, Shalit, has been viewed and the Israeli leaders are satisfied that he is alive and "well" under the circumstances. He was kidnapped three years ago and he's been an interesting "bargaining chip" for Hamas. I don't know how many concessions have already been made by Israel, for safe return of this young man, but this last one simply makes me wonder. Israel agreed to release 20 women prisoners for the video. That's right, just the video! And I think it's only a couple of minutes long. I've read the information, reread the information and it still doesn't make any sense to me. First, the young man is a soldier, so this really should make it some sort of war issue by now, but for some reason, Israel appears to be cowering and conceding. Next, I read the list of the young women that were released and with the exception of just a few, most of their crimes were pretty brutal. There were, as I said, a few that were members of some banned organizations, and several were due to be released by the first of next year, but in the list of names and charges, I read "attempted murder" several times. I'm just an onlooker here, but it really does appear that Hamas will empty the Israeli prison by just throwing crumbs. I'd like to be a peacemaker in this, but seriously, doesn't someone need to ask just how many times this is going to happen? I can't actually nail down an exact number, but Egypt is the arbitrator between Hamas and Israel and they have literally discussed over a thousand prisoners be freed in exchange for Shalit. I see this as a never ending, insatiable demand on the part of Hamas, while one Israeli soldier is all that Israel is asking for. Israel needn't cower and concede.
For their rock is not as our Rock . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

The Latest About H1N1 Vaccine

I'm hearing a number of people debating this new vaccine and the conspiranoid e-mails are beginning to stack up in my Inbox, but something has really caught my attention. I am shocked at the number of nurses who are concerned about this vaccination and are afraid of their job security if they refuse it. First I find it absolutely poetic justice that health care job security may be contingent on blind faith obedience to the medical powers. Next, I can't help but wonder since nurses do have more education regarding these chemicals, just what is being done to the general population and really, I wonder how long it has already been done? I watched an interview with a nurse who was protesting the mandatory shot and frankly, I have to wonder, the way the interview went if she even has a job, now. She was grasping at straws pretty desperately, and she clearly crossed a line of authority in questioning the CDC. Turns out some nurses are objecting to a shot that is presented to be for their own good, and the good of the patients they will be working with. Does anybody know what happens when somebody crosses a nurse in her carrying out doctor's orders? I mean they do earn a living just following orders . . . So, what's the big deal now?
He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity . . . the Revelation