Giving the Word

I had a most interesting week-end, that I just have to talk about. Of course, if you've been aware of any news at all, you know about the tornado in Joplin. Please keep those folks in your prayers, life is nowhere close to normal. And if you've followed this blog, you know that I had some choice words for the Westboro Baptist Clan. I called my daughter, who is an amazing networker to see how to get a large group that could stand between them and the grieving town of Joplin. Well, several people had my idea and we had quite a turn out. The WBC didn't show up, but I got to chat with someone claiming to be of the same faith. He wanted to argue with us, so we shared Scripture and he wandered off, only to attempt to rabble rouse elsewhere. I do have to share the bright spot in this entire ordeal. My daughter brought her family down to assist in the endeavor. It made this baby boomer proud to have three generations bearing signs of love. My daughter and grandkids all held signs quoting Scripture. As this cultist looking for his ilk, was talking about all of his programming, and as we shared Scripture, I couldn't help but think . . . The Westboro Baptist Clan didn't keep their word. I'm going to say, everything else they have to say is just as meaningless, but it is for sure; MEAN! I had no idea I'd ever meet a person outside the Phelps family that wanted what WBC offered, that shared in their beliefs. America is in trouble, no doubt. We have gotten a long way from G-d's plan, but rubbing salt in the wounds of the devastated is not Scriptural.
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of G-d leadeth thee to repentance? New Testament

Shirley, We Need to Talk

The Shirley to whom I refer, is Shirley Phelps Roper, of the infamous Westboro Baptist Church. According to their press release they plan to come taunt and spew their vitriolic venom at the victims of the Joplin tornado. That's right, they claim to be coming to add insult to injury. I've been to Joplin twice this week to offer what I could and I've been in awe of what I've seen as the town pitches in and as strangers have come from miles around to help. In the midst of devastation, these people just keep on keeping on. I'm listening to the radio right now as they continue to give updates. The station owner has disrupted all of his regular programming to continue with the updates. That means his income is not happening. The announcers are amazing as well. Many of them continue to broadcast and listen to calls coming in, and they themselves have no homes to go to. The grocery store has given over their parking lot and shopping carts for the victims to come to trucks to receive supplies. It's amazing, truly amazing. Money and self-focus are unheard of in Joplin and yet there's one group that plans to come to do nothing helpful, whatsoever. I thought a lot of the radio personality that promised an half hour of his show to these people if they would not protest the little girl's funeral in Arizona that died when the Congress woman was shot. I felt like he "threw himself on that grenade." So, now I'll throw this blog on the proverbial grenade and give some attention to the Westboro Baptist Church. These people make all sorts of Biblical claims, but as a minister, myself; I don't remember reading about any men of G-d hiding behind women, kids, and internet screens. I find it interesting that Fred has so much hate to spew on line, but he doesn't attend the protests. As a matter of fact, I never see the men there. It's always the women and kids. I would expect as I believe most Americans would, that the religious man or men would lead. Well, a real man would! Shirley is a case, but then she is Fred's daughter, that according to many reports actually gave Fred a grandchild before giving him a son-in-law. Their statements of judgment are almost always based upon sexual sin . . . Could be issues . . . HUMMMMMM Me dost think they do protest too loudly.
He that loveth not knoweth not G-d; for G-d is love. New Testament

Joplin, Missouri

I'm not originally from this area, but I'm proud to be counted amongst the residents of southwest Missouri. I went to just the south side of Joplin yesterday to take some supplies and what I saw was both overwhelming and amazing. Now, I didn't see anywhere near the areas that have been shown in the news. I just saw the very south edge the path, in which power poles were snapped in half, huge oak trees were uprooted, some tarps on the roofs. I saw nothing of the true devastation just a few blocks to the north of where we were. Now, I do have to tell you what else I saw. I saw people everywhere doing whatever they could and whatever they thought needed to be done. I listened to radio announcers giving updates and taking calls round the clock, that literally no longer had homes to go to. I read about the Fire Chief that lost his home, both his vehicles, and yet he's working and coordinating with others for the rescue effort. I saw huge trailers full of supplies and dozens of people working each one. I saw a tent pitched in a parking lot, with dozens of volunteers preparing food. The calls into the radio station were heart touching. The ingenuity and spirit of these people is literally breath taking. As I unloaded the hundred plus dollars of supplies we brought, which was nothing in the big picture, I was met with so many hands to help unload the back of the van and the thank yous were abundant. We got in to leave, when I remembered the sack of things I had gathered from the house, so we stopped at the next drop-off point. I'd gathered the few batteries, lighters, and rolls of duct tape we had because it had been announced that many of the stores were already sold out of those items. I was a bit sheepish about that sack, because it wasn't much and the only thing still in packages were the batteries, yet as I handed it to the volunteer with explanation she just smiled and thanked me like it was a great gift! Now in the midst of all this, let me share about a divine appointment. Through a business transaction, we became familiar with a young family. When I heard about the storm, I commented that I thought their address on the contract was in the path of the tornado. I tried to call, tried to e-mail, of course to no avail, and I prayed. That prayer availed much. Of all things, in that parking lot as we were heading in to drop off supplies, they were on their way out with supplies. Their family, although had lost much, were all alive and well.
And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house . . . the book of Job in Holy Scripture

False Prophecy?

There was no doubt that Harold Camping was wrong about a rapture on May 21, 2011. The reasons for him being wrong were numerous and obvious. First, he didn't really focus on the Second Coming of Messiah, but rather this "rapture" concept. There is no mention of the word rapture in the Bible. Second, Y'hshuwah clearly and distinctly stated that no man knew the date or the hour. Third, I posted last week, that his math was beyond questionable. Fourth, the date he claimed to correlate with Scripture was Friday, the 20th of May. So, whether believer or skeptic, I guess everyone but his followers knew there would be no grand exit of people, Saturday. You know, not to mention Sabbath is G-d's day of rest . . . But what if Harold Camping was only wrong about the date of his proclaimed rapture? What if we are facing judgment? Our basic food supply has been either blighted by drought or washed way by flood waters. That's right, a great portion of America's farmland is not producing this year, from the wheat crop to the rice and cotton crops. Not only that, but the drought has also caused poor pastures and ranchers are simply getting out of the beef business. To go a step further, there is weather of Biblical proportion going on in many places. I very clearly heard G-d tell me to warn about "cloud seeding." Cloud seeding is man playing god and altering the weather pattern. We need to stop, the alterations are devastating!
. . . he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; and thy cities shall be laid waste . . . Prophet of Holy Scripture

Rasing the Debt Ceiling?

The illusion of looking up, when in reality, debt is a deep pit and apparently here in America it would appear our government will actually make it into a bottomless pit. We cannot pay our bills without borrowing from the future. It really is that simple. America has so many government programs, agencies and bureaucracies, we can't maintain them, much less afford all of our imported trinkets, we simply must have. The fact of the matter is the terminology is misleading in itself. Raising implies gaining and I guess the fact that our leaders are determined to raise the amount we owe is basically factual, but still misleading. If we continue to choose arbitrary figures of more borrowing to maintain our current standard, all we are really doing is choosing to deny what we have chosen to do. Raising the debt ceiling to continue to accommodate those that are deemed "entitled" is nothing more than robbing from our children and grandchildren. Raising the debt ceiling is the same thing as "all of us grandmas" breaking our grandchildren's penny banks so we can go out to lunch and have a senior discount. Now, our grandchildren's working parents don't qualify for any discounts, because they are busy and producing . . . I'm on this soap box again. Some generation has to stop the madness and bite the bullet, it may as well be mine. The boomers have been an annoyance to every generation so far. When we didn't want to join the establishment, we were told we were wrong! Then most of the boomers did cave and join the establishment and now that it's crumbling, that's our fault too. So be it. I'm sure most of us boomers really don't mind continuing to pay FICA and self-employment tax, so our Grandmas and Moms & Dads can enjoy their social security on top of pensions, investments, and inheritances. I've really decided somebody who feels entitled might as well enjoy themselves and feel like they have it coming. It makes sense for it to be the boomers that take the hit, since all we've ever heard is how spoiled we are and how good we had it. The boomers are already basically out of pension options, sitting on half of their previous 401k, and being phased out of the work force, anyway. We might as well just take it on the chin and become the hippies we all planned to be to start with. We'll just let our hair grow long and silver, live off the land, but I guess without Medicare D, the pharmaceuticals for free love won't be an issue. The one thing we will be able to live with is we can actually teach our grandhcildren that their future is important to us. We can teach our grandchildren where "lunch" really comes from and we can do that without breaking their penny banks. If Washington continues in this well established tradition, we aren't raising the debt ceiling, we're digging an abyss for our granchildren.
A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Campaign Declarations, Already . . .

I say already, but actually the declarations of candidacy are several months later in '11 than they were in '07 for the 2008 elections. There were just about as many senators on the campaign trail by this time in 2007 as there were in Washington, still doing business. And I would dare say, our current administration appears to have proven, little experience is actually needed to be President of the United States. I believe he was a freshman senator, just 2 years on post and often voting with the comment "present," when he declared his presidential candidacy. He was the first to declare this round, but now three contenders have been added, and two being recognizable members of the GOP. I can't remember the first guy to declare, so that gives me insight as to the level of success I would expect for him, but I do think he's a libertarian. Now there's Newt and Ron Paul added. I'm not expecting big things out of either of them. I'm thankful that there are less than 18 months until the election, and I'm thankful I don't have a television. I am sickened that an incumbent believes he needs to raise $1,000,000,000, that's 1 Billion dollars to campaign against a bunch of late coming virtual nobodies to win a job that pays less than 1/2 a million a year! With investment thinking like that, it's no wonder our budget is in the sad state it's in. It would be interesting if our politics became unusual and wasn't just same ol' same ol', but I'm not holding my breath. I can't imagine the day when a real person that actually balanced a personal or business budget, whose word is their bond would ever run for the highest office in this land.
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Political Agendas

I've made a few comments and posted a few blogs as to the credibility of having gotten the kingpin of terror, Usama bin Laden. And by the way, did the spelling of his first name change because we were spelling it wrong before or because the GOP associated Osama with Obama? Another matter about this spelling business. President Obama has been in office for more than two years, why hasn't spell check caught up yet? Yet I digressed, back to the topic at hand. I'm sure the Navy SEALS did accomplish a heroic feat that resulted in at least one less terrorist, but I still do not believe one guy that's been hiding for nearly ten years has been calling all the shots. But, I do think, just like G. W.'s plans for Iraq, President Obama had a plan for Pakistan, and we have yet to see that unfold. But I think we will before the next election. I'm really getting a bit frustrated and not so much with the politicians any more, but we the people just keep running back and forth as if the party leaders are saying anything different. I truly believe the political agenda of both parties is virtually the same. The politicians want to live an extravagant and comfortable lifestyle with all the power they can acquire and we the people keep nibbling at their offers every 4-6 years. Between Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and now possibly finally Pakistan, I'm not sure we'll have enough military in the states to even keep the lights on . . . Or will we soon be looking at a draft? Or perhaps automatic service to offset those student loans everyone has been offered and most everyone has embraced. We're not out of Pakistan yet . . .
And number thee an army, like the army that thou hast lost, horse for horse, and chariot for chariot: and we will fight against them in the plain, and surely we shall be stronger than they . . . History of Holy Scripture

Do We Ever Tire of Being Foolish?

We just spent big money to blast a levee so flood waters could destroy at least 130,000 acres of Missouri farmland to save a town that has been moving out since the 2000 census. I looked up Cairo, Illinois to discover it went from about 3600 people in the 2000 census to around 2800 in 2010. I couldn't find any major industry there and considering the drop in the housing market, compared to land to raise crops, I just can't figure out what the powers that be were thinking. There was time to consider this. The entire town had already been evacuated. There was no life at risk!!! What is wrong with the decision makers at this time? I heard this morning that it may be years before the farm land is tillable again to produce anything. What have we become? Where are our priorities? All the people have left safely, the town has been dwindling for the past several years, and we've wiped out thousands upon thousands of acres of farm land that would have produced and continued to produce for what? man made STUFF??? Or the flip side . . . Our foolish arrogant materialism has finally landed us in judgment . . .
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. New Testament
For thus hath YHWH said, The whole land shall be DESOLATE . . . Prophet of Holy Scripture

Correspondent's Dinner

It's just not the same, without G.W. The press correspondent's dinner used to be the one night to roast and toast the President. The Bushes definitely made it a fun and memorable occasion. Laura was really funny, as I recall, and G.W. . . . the best sport on the planet, that one night. Now, it's just not the same. President Obama appears to have no sense of humor, but he's snarky and intimidating. I just don't call that funny stuff unless you're Roseanne Barr making fun of her own life, but then again, that's the operative. If someone cannot make fun of themselves, they aren't funny when they make fun of someone else. Well, I can't say the correspondent's dinner is the deal breaker with this administration, but it's certainly one more thing to add to the list. If President Obama, who can say whatever he likes, whenever he likes has to use this opportunity to harpoon someone, then he's just not as classy as I tried to give him credit for being. Now, as for the comedian that compared himself and his father to Ron and Rand Paul, loved it, simply loved it. I believe it was Mike Meyers that said he and his father were like Ron and Rand Paul, in that they would never be elected President either. I think what makes me the saddest about these latest correspondent dinners is the number of people that do think the President is funny while he's using a bully podium. We are really getting to be a mean bunch of folks that appear to like to see people put on the spot and made uncomfortable. I just don't think that should be classified as humor.
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. New Testament

More Economic News . . .

We purchased gasoline yesterday. I can remember in my lifetime when gasoline was not even figured into the household family budget. Seriously, gasoline was an incidental. I should sit down and crunch some numbers as to how it compares with the income and costs of the 60's and 70's, but regardless of that comparative information, there are some things that simply need to be factored in. In the early 70's gasoline became part of the necessary expenditures that needed to be figured into the budget. That was also about the time most family households became two income. So now we fast forward 35 to 40 years and realize, nearly all family households have two incomes, but it's not enough to maintain the mortgage. As for buying a car for cash, for the most part, forget about it. So, it takes two incomes just to keep a roof over a family's head and maintain reliable transportation so both parties can get to work to make the money to pay for the house and cars. Now, we have mandatory insurance laws which will be taking more out of the pocket of the employees, groceries are skyrocketing, and now gasoline is nearing $4.00 a gallon. Yet, according to the headlines, the economy is improving and consumer confidence is up. Doesn't it make you wonder where the stats come from? I guess this is based on the information that Wall Street is up, Exxon is showing record profits, and there is no rioting in the streets. People just go ahead and move out of their homes when the foreclosure is official and they realize one morning their vehicle has been repossessed. Rather than an improved economy, I'd say we are simply accepting our lot in life.
Give us bread: for why should we die in thy presence? for the money faileth. Torah of Holy Scripture

My Aha Moment!

I think we are all well aware of our light coming on, when we suddenly see something new in something we've been looking at all along. Well, last night, I had one of those moments while watching "the Ten Commandments." I'm not a big fan of watching the screen, but every year, I watch this movie, and do my best to stay awake for four hours and pay attention. The movie is not boring by any means. It's colorful, it's truly full of Scripture, and it's exceedingly meaningful, I'm just not good at watching movies. Yet I digress . . . Last night as I watched the dramatization portion of the movie, which although is not found in Exodus, per se, much of the conversation consisted of Scripture, found mostly in the New Testament. What I realized last night was the fact that indeed Moses had access to the throne of Egypt, from within. Although he was born to Hebrew slaves, he was raised the son of Pharaoh's daughter. Most of us know the account of Pharaoh's horrendous edict to kill all the baby boys, so Moses' mother placed him in a basket and it floated down the Nile on the day of the Princess's bath. She opened the basket and claimed the baby, and raised him as her own. Now, the point I saw here, was Moses was already in the palace. He could have been politically correct or lobbied or whatever our terms would be now, to change things from within and by his earthly governmental power, but that's not at all how the account reads. So, as I saw that, I fast forwarded to our current messes, because last year I realized Yul Brenner, in his role, reminded me of President Obama. I mean same expressions, everything! As I considered my observation, I realized, whether we have religious lobby organizations, or so called conservative Christians in office, it's not going to change the direction of the country. There is no Scriptural account in which to base this religious tradition that has developed in Washington DC. I realize some will use the example of Esther to say G-d changed the politics and the outcome. Again, G-d saved His people, but the Medo-Persian empire was not changed, nor was it preserved. Egypt was not changed by a religious leader from within. The Medo-Persian Empire did not destroy the Jews, but did itself fall to another empire. As this next election cycle rolls around, I can now clearly see. I am not suggesting an Exodus, but just making the observation that the religious attempts to challenge and bring change from within are not found in Scripture.
. . . unto Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she called his name Moses: and she said, Because I drew him out of the water . . . Now Moses . . . came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb . . . G-d called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses . . . Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.

New Book

And I'm going high-tech. I cannot believe I'm actually working on HTML and PDF, with the direction of heading for Kindle. Oh, I'm doing the very basic simple stuff, but it is happening. According to what I've read, the tutorial videos I've watched, and the agreement I made, my book should be available within 24 hours after I get it uploaded to Amazon. I still like paper books, though and we will be publishing those as well. This book has been awhile in the mulling . . . so it feels good to have it in print and will feel even better when it's available electronically. Considering the way things are going, it might just be time to ask the question: "Can We All Be Wrong?"
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but . . . a Proverb

Let's Talk Priorities

So, our elected officials and representatives can't get along well enough to balance the budget and the White House says the troops will pay for this derision with their paychecks. That's right, if the House and Senate cannot come to some sort of deficit agreement, President Obama says the troops involved in 3 wars will not receive their paychecks. First, let me say this. President Obama campaigned on the "promise or pretense" we were getting out of Iraq and Afghanistan, which so far he has not delivered, but of course that's not his fault, nothing ever is . . . and now we're in Libya. From everything I've seen in the past couple of years, this administration isn't much different from the last, except the money is now going to Health Insurance along with Big Oil. The Middle Class was immediately termed the working class by this President and to restore the job market, McDonald's is hiring 50,000 people. I just love the way things are being fixed, don't you? I went to town yesterday and noticed gasoline seems to be going up about a dime a week as of late and all the fresh veggies Michelle O. wants everyone to eat, well they've doubled in price since her proclamation. I told someone yesterday, when I saw that avocados were $1.78 a piece, TPTB better watch what they price, or the farm labor will end up going back to their own country. Now back to the people that are supposedly trying to fix the budget. And I say supposedly because the sock puppet theatre is getting pretty dramatic. It's about time for the Prez to get all pensive, Boehner to start crying and Nancy to start "melting" and Harry to have some sort of spell or tizzy. I don't know that I could fix this problem permanently, but I can certainly tell you why these people cannot come up with a budget, and I could move this drama right along. President Obama summed it up well in his announcement to run again for President. He plans to raise $1,000,000,000 [1 Billion] to get a job that will only pay $1,600,000 [1.6 million] over the next four years. Campaigns cost more to run than the elected person can earn in the term, that's both sides of the aisle and the "wingy fringe." Therefore, all of these elected officials have no concept of what it is to have a bottom line. Considering their concept of spending, they have no business messing with anyone's budget! Now, long before the people that are serving the country in three wars get no paycheck and long before the ticket ladies at the museums get laid off, and before the workers of the all the various concession stands and restaurants shutter over the lack of tourists, let's simply make sure the politicians who are so concerned about "we the people" give up their paychecks first. What do they really need a pay check for anyway? We know the White House is the highest level of government housing available and we also know who pays for Air Force 1. The roles have been openly reversed. This administration has taken "transparency" to a new level and it's really more like "in your face." Our so called public servants from both sides of the aisle are positioning themselves to be this nation's plutocrats. Politicians are now American aristocrats! I'm having a real problem with the idea that our own military would be treated as has been suggested by the leader of the Free World, and I'm having a real problem with over 500 representatives that don't seem to care how their silliness impacts our fragile economy. We've already accepted they aren't really going to fix anything, but do they have to make things worse?
Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates: Torah of Holy Scripture

Ncotine Gum

I'm thinking I might be heading in an interesting direction here at CoP. Since our current President seems to just be heading the same direction as his predecessors after all the "hope and change" talk, I just don't find that much to discuss. I can't see that he's less war-mongering than George W. Bush. I can't see that he's any more fiscally for the Middle Class than Reagan was. And from what I can tell, he's as good at juggling statistics as any politician, so I find him the exact opposite of "hope and change." What is that "despair and repeat?" Anyway, something occurred to me this morning after hearing more places that are going "smoke free." The first thing that occurred to me is that I'm glad I quit nearly 20 years ago. I just don't think I'd do well having nic-fits in a virtually smoke free society. The next thought was, I'd just have to be a nicotine gum chewer. So far, as I can tell, gum chewing is still legal, although the way some folks do it, there should be a fine or permit involved! Then it hit me. Tobacco has been a controlled crop for a number of years. You know, a special 3 letter government agency keeps tabs on it, only too many people were either getting sick, or so they say, costing the insurance and pharmaceutical companies out of their profit, so . . . Cracking down on smoking in public is yet another way to control the tobacco farming industry, thus farmers losing yet another crop, but Big Pharm actually makes money making and selling chemically produced nicotine gum. So now, we have smokers that are chewers, but the old fashioned "chaw" and spit isn't so socially acceptable, especially for women, so again, there's the socially acceptable gum. It won't be long, til the big pharmaceutical companies have it all to themselves. By the time all of our vices and addictions can e chemically manufactured, they'll own us all! And we'll be happy to pay to pay for the "fix" that is legal.
Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments. Torah of Holy Scripture

An Interesting Generation

I've started this blog several times, but after the first paragraph, I just sound like a cranky old lady, so I'll try yet again. I've taken notice of a type of man that is in the generation younger than myself. These are the men, if you can call them that, that are mid-thirties. Please hear me, I am not talking about the entire lot of them, but I do see a thread that runs pretty connected through a particular group of these guys. They were the first to have electronic video games. They grew up with working moms and either absent or pre-occupied dads. So, they apparently retreated into their own shell of an existence, because now here twenty some years later, they seem to have the social skills of belligerent third graders that think Mario brothers are reality! They still socialize like frat boys, many of them manage to attract and live off of a woman with a fairly good job, and many of them spend their free time with more videos and for reality, they obsess over guns. I think what I find so sadly amusing is how little respect they show, while expecting others to listen to them and treat them like men. Well, today, I've just seen enough of these little bully boys in men's bodies, that I felt the need to blog. They like everyone to consider them a presence to be acknowledged, and so I do. I realize there are many in that age group that are still living in their parent's basement spending inordinate amounts of time on a computer or Wii. I'm glad these guys realized they weren't really interested in participating in polite society and KUDOS to the parents that let them stay in the basement and not make the rest of society deal with them. Now to the parents who couldn't provide a basement room for their loser boys, thanks so much. We parents, neighbors, friends of parents, and employers of the young women that support these losers really think our society will not recover from their input. Surely there's a politically correct term for them, or there will be soon. They are heading for 40 without any sense of responsibility or contribution. But they have big trucks, guns, and some woman, so they think they're men. If these boys represent a sizable percentage the next generation of men, this country will truly never recover.
For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. New Testament

So Much Has Been Happening

As those that follow this blog have noticed, I've not been blogging. My last draft was entitled "Things are Happening So Fast . . ." and now here we are, a few weeks later and "So much has been happening." I have a feeling something is shaking loose, very soon. First, Passover is just about 3 weeks away, then there's the Christian events, then that one group planning to be raptured out on May 21st. If anyone knows any of these folks, you might want to see if they've made all the necessary banking and titling arrangements . . . Okay, that was unnecessary, but to make such a brass prediction, and any questions just labels the rest of us, unbelievers, seems wrong. Then there is Shavu'ot or Pentecost seven weeks after Passover. So, there is a lot coming very soon, but not to over look all that's been happening. How many wars are we involved in now, in the Middle East? And how many more Middle Eastern countries are talking protests? With things becoming even more unsettled over there, we know something is going to happen besides an increase in the cost of gasoline. The Middle East always sort of serves as the connecting point between religion, politics, and the economy. I haven't even known what to say about Japan. The earthquake alone was overwhelming, but then the tsunami, and now the radiation. I have no idea how this will even begin to calm down for those people. With all this going on, should we be listening to the May 21st people? I don't think so, but I do think we need to be taking note. I've been wondering with more wars looming and the problems in the Pacific, not to mention no politician throwing their hat in the ring, here. I'm sort of wondering if our President isn't going to make a bid for Secretary General of the UN. The present term ends then end of 2011. I can't help but think all of this really is of global consequence. The US economy isn't strengthening, unless the paper they are using to print money is the same stuff they make Bounty out of. Japan needs help, The Middle East is in an uproar and it's becoming increasingly difficult to be able to afford to live in America. What does all this mean? I'm thinking according to the words of Messiah, we ain't seen nothin' yet!
For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
All these are the beginning of sorrows. New Testament

Here's News!

The Pope has exonerated the Jews about the death of Messiah and Madoff has determined through his prison counseling that he is a good person. I think the fact that these two items are considered news is the actual news. I'm going to address Bernie Madoff's statement first. He's what . . . early 70's, spent his life cheating and lying to people that trusted him, not to mention lived a luxurious and lavish lifestyle on stolen money, and now that he's been caught and in prison counseling, he realizes he's a good person. Although he's slated to serve more years than he'll live, I've seen some interesting exceptions made regarding age, time served and health issues, so who knows how this will all turn out for Bernie. Actually, considering the retirement funds his clients lost to him, he may actually be living better in prison than they will in their golden years.
Now, on to the Pope. I never did understand why the Jews were blamed for the death of Messiah, and just how the Roman Catholics got out of the blame, except by Constantine's political power. The Pharisees may have accused Messiah, and falsely I might add, but there were a great number of ordinary Jewish citizens that didn't join in the rank and file of the religious right of that day. Then we have to consider the fact that Judea was under Roman rule, so the Pharisees had a voice, but they didn't have the ultimate authority. It was the Roman ruler, Pontius Pilate that sentenced Messiah, then since he really could find nothing he'd done wrong, said he washed his hands of the incident. Historically it sounds like Rome was pretty instrumental in the death of Messiah, in every aspect. Let's not forget that stoning was the method of capital punishment, used in Judaism, and sometimes burning, but never crucifixion. So, if crucifixion is Roman, could it be that the Pope is more familiar with the religion that is responsible for the death of Messiah?
And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him: and the third day he shall rise again. New Testament

How Will We Ever Know?

With instant information, e-transactions, e-books, and political hypocrisy, how will we ever know what the truth really is, or really was? How will we know which version was true and which version was the product of the revisionists? As I read the news, I just can't help but wonder what the original truth truly is and what the revised explanation actually is. As I read about unemployment, job opportunities, and increased spending, I simply cannot help but wonder where this "hedonic treadmill" will end. I remember when I was in school, and yes that was a day or two ago, we were taught that Abraham Lincoln was an ethical man, but not inclined to religion. We were taught that although he allowed his wife to take their sons to church, he did not choose to attend and the reason given were the differences within the denominations and on every street corner. Well, now President Lincoln is reported to be a Christian of extraordinary faith and I think even the author of a devotional. So, which way is it? Who did the revising? Now on to e-banking transactions, e-books, and e-mail. How will we know what gets changed, what gets lost, and what simply was not "translated" from hard copy to electronic or cyber? As more and more instant appears and more and more hard copy disappears, not to mention the conservative book burners of written manuscripts that they find offensive, how will we know? Scripture says, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." Well, if we never know what the truth actually is, is that the pathway to bondage?
And they made their lives bitter with hard bondage . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

Politics and Such

First, besides the other candidates, is anyone surprised that Rahm Emanuel is mayor of Chicago? I know I'm not. It was American politics at its smarmy best! I try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, but that guy just rubs me the wrong way in apparently every thing he does. I don't care for his vocabulary, I don't care for his arrogance, and I don't care for his elitist attitude about, virtually, everything. Okay, enough about him. We'll be crossing the aisle now to mention the Governor of Wisconsin. I can't believe this guy. He sent the Wisconsin State Patrol to round up the representatives. Is he for real? Just how much state money did that take, while he's telling the people that the state can't afford to provide their benefits? Setting aside what seems like the actions of a state dictator, there was a great expense involved in this standoff, supposedly over state finances. So, both parties have earned mention today. Now, on to something we've been fed . . . In December I heard on the news that gasoline prices would probably hit $4.00 a gallon in 2011. Well, now here it is, February 2011, and now that Egypt and Libya have had an uproar, that's the reason for increased gasoline prices? Just how do we figure that? Did our government know there was going to be problems before Mubarak and Gadhafi did? Kind of looks that way, doesn't it? Or was the price of gasoline going to go up anyway, and now we have this "reason?" That's pretty much the line of thinking I'm going with. I mean, even if the Middle East problems were affecting the prices of oil. The oil that just went up is not what's in the pumps today! I am just not buying anything any politician is selling, these days. I did have one final thought regarding Libya and the US, though. Gadhafi is blaming Bin Laden for influencing the youth of Libya. Could be we are missing a golden opportunity here to get the gasoline prices in better line. Nothing unites like a common enemy. Is this the opportunity to put the problems between Reagan and Gadhafi behind us or should we help the protesters? But what if Bin Laden really is behind the protest in Libya? We really haven't had any problems with Gadhafi for years. As a matter of fact, he's told other Middle Eastern leaders to not mess with America . . . "they're crazy."
. . . but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Protests and Unrest

Although I do not believe dictatorships would ever be my government of choice, we also need to realize democracies can produce some elected messes in their own right. Although Mubarak is being called a dictator, he was elected several times . . . As we can see, sometimes a democracy doesn't eliminate the protest. But hopefully a democracy will protect the rights and lives of those that protest. I just hope Wisconsin remains as peaceful as Egypt was.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith YHWH. a Prophet of Holy Scripture

What Next?

I see the Middle East having it's very own reckoning day. I hear on the news that our own country manages to "create" laws on a daily basis. And now, I hear that someone is asking that our President be given power to shut down the internet with a single flip of a switch. When I heard that, a question immediately rose up in me. Why would the President have to shut down the internet, when they can just keep right on doing what they've been doing? It's very clear that TPTB can simply give us any information they choose to give, then later recant and say it was not accurate information. Who needs to shut down the internet for that? Why have the FCC up in an uproar over that? It's just so much simpler than Egypt made it or all those coming against the Middle Eastern protesters, are making it out to be. There is no reason in the world for our government to shut down the internet or filter the information like Egypt did or China has done in the past. I've heard it for several months now. All TPTB need to do is give us some sort of report, including statistics and researched data, then in a couple of weeks or next month, simply do what they've been doing. Tell us the information was faulty or inaccurate. See how simple that is? No need for a protest or revolt. The people will just accept the revision. We will lay down, roll over, and take the treat when it's offered, in a completely Pavlovian manner. Tell us what you will, there is so much division, discouragement, and confusion, there is no need to shut down the information or filter the news feed, just correct it later. It won't make any difference and it won't change a thing.
A faithful witness will not lie . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Craigslist Congressman

What's really going on? Nobody can be that dumb! Did he want to be a divorced lobbyist and this is the most direct route to that goal? Actually this is old news by now, as I archived this blog for later editing, but the real issue simply has to be addressed. Are our representatives so out of touch with reality that they haven't heard of the all the potential dangers or fall out of Craigslist? I mean, a year or so ago, some med student killed himself after being arrested for the murder of a massage therapist he contacted through Craigslist. Are our lawmakers unaware of these type of headlines? Undoubtedly what this Congressman did was smarmy, underhanded, dishonest, and several other disgusting adjectives and adverbs, but the sheer immensity of his predicament continues to baffle me. I don't wish to sound like Glenn Beck, hammering something until everyone has a migraine, but there is a piece missing in this situation that I want to understand. What about that picture without his shirt? Why post his clearly recognizable face? And why not claim a hacking or a set up? This is simply not conservative American politics at its finest! After all this, he's sorry he's let his wife and child down and sorry he's disappointed constituents, and now that he's resigned he'd like privacy to work this out. Nonsense! This is utter nonsense and I want answers. I have some unanswered questions that I would like addressed by someone. Didn't he have at least one Congressional aid? As a Congressman, did he not know the potential of advertising on Craigslist? And if he didn't, how many of the rest of them on Capitol Hill have no clue what day it is and how much a loaf of bread costs? I have to say, as far as keeping abreast of what's going on in the world. I couldn't tell you what the latest styles are and I can't tell you the latest price of furniture or what the most popular reality show is, but I can tell you how to post on Craigslist and I can tell you I've gotten responses from as far away as Hawaii, on a piece of ground I advertised. I've gotten calls from over 60 miles away on goats I've advertised for sale. I'm not as worldly wise as our Congress people claim to be and I'm certainly not upscale in my lifestyle, but I know Craigslist makes public, anything that's posted. So Mr. Congressman, what is really going on, that we have this to chew on? Or is it even bigger and you simply were the sacrifice for even bigger deals, behind the scenes?
A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness. a Proverb

Waste Not . . . Want Not

I come from a fairly frugal family, at least on my Dad's side. Oh don't get me wrong, we all have way more than we need. Through my childhood, I truly thought my mother was a marathon shopper, and shopping would kill me. My grandparents always seemed to be able to afford what they wanted, but their wants were fairly simple. I don't know that frugal is actually the proper term, but since that's not really my point, I'll simply move along. I think my perspective and the way my dad and his folks handled money would be of great value to our Congress, even now. As I read how much they tell us they are going to cut and save, I read other things that tells me, they have no clue how to handle money, especially when it isn't theirs. Well, considering how much their salaries are, and how many things we taxpayers have to provide for them, it sounds like they can't manage their own money either. So, I could help even more. As they talk about trimming the budget, yet we all know they get a raise even in the midst of a troubled economy. Oh there was the one superficial gesture after the Democrats regained the House in 2006, but Congress isn't living like we are and that is becoming more evident all the time. I read an interesting article today that I am going to discuss even on my show tonight. It seems Congress spends nearly $1M on bottle water, annually. I, personally, cannot understand how they could possibly do that, no more time than they are in Washington, but the figure rang in over $850,000. Broken down, this averaged about $2000 per person and they're only there what 200 days a year. Are there no water fountains on the Hill? I would have thought they could all manage to have some sort of little fridge in their office to bring their own, and if not; put in vending machines. Do they really think everything in life is provided at the job site? How many people have beverages furnished, besides coffee, or the water fountain, at no charge at work? And many places there is a "pot" to take up collection for the coffee. Only tap water is furnished in most places of employment, in this country. Now the plot thickens here because Nestle has a contract for providing their bottled water and wouldn't we all love to know the cost per case on that deal! First this infuriates me in that Congress is just so elitist in their attitude that they can tell us how concerned they are about 'we the people' and waste like they do. How many little kids could have warm meals or new clothes for just what Congress wastes on bottled water? What about the landfill on that kind of sumptuousness? Why can't the Nestle lobbyist provide the water as one of their donations? But even on a more basic level, this tells me we have people in office that have no idea that there is a bottom line. We have people so out of touch with the reality of the State of our Union that there is absolutely no hope of this particular crowd even chipping away at the outrageous spending, much less to ever balance the budget. I propose two things here. Send a note to your representative and inform them that if we tax payers could afford that sort of expense for water, we'd be giving it to our kids before we'd provide it to old politicians. The second thing I'm going to do is boycott Nestle products until I see some improvement. Congress and Nestle, if you're not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. Please, Congress, stop proving you are only there for your own interests and not representing "we the people."
We have drunken our water for money . . . Prophecy of Holy Scripture

Another Non-Political Post

I realize this is usually about politics, but apparently this week, I'm breaking away from tradition. Today I received a call so unusual, that I just have to blog about it! I received a phone call this morning from the feed store where we do business. This is a feed store that we just started doing business with about a year and a half ago when we moved. So, it's not like we go back a long way . . . The feed store is a "mom and pop" operation, a married couple that run their business from a big building on their place. It's a great set up. Now, back to the call. It was the woman that called and said, they'd been talking about us and thinking about us for the past few days, and had just found my card. She was wondering if we'd been able to get out and about. I responded with a resounding, "No, haven't left the place in a week." She asked if we were doing okay and I said, yes. Then the most amazing offer. She said if we needed any feed, her husband would be glad to deliver it. I told her I was still doing okay on feed and I wasn't sure he could even get up here if we did need any. We then talked about meeting with our 4 wheeler if need be, etc. But I was sure that we were okay, then she made the next offer. She said if I needed to go to town, to the store or anything, her husband would be happy to give me a ride to town. Now if that isn't going the extra mile, I just don't know what is. I just think the world of these people. We've had some interesting discussions at their feed store in the evening. Our religious beliefs are similar, yet different, but the similarity is simple. We all believe your beliefs ought to show in the middle of the week. That's it. I don't care where you go and which day of the week-end you attend, it's what shows on Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning that counts! I called back later to thank them for their kind offer, got the gentleman and he told me if I did decide I needed something, just call and let him know, he'd be happy to bring it. Now, if America had just maintained that kind of business attitude, we might still be in business! Whether it's going the extra mile or the customer is always right, good business and true religion basically boils down to the golden rule, and that ought to show every day.
All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye also unto them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Today it's Not About Politics or Religion . . .

It's about football! Last night's game was fast and interesting. I thought it really moved and I discovered a new way to enjoy football. I don't have a TV, so I listened on the radio and followed Sports Illustrated Live Blog. It was wonderful. It was a new experience in football. I have to say, I was more than please when GreenBay won. I'm a fan of GreenBay, mostly for sentimental reasons. I remember the first SuperBowl. It was Greenbay and Kansas City. Greenbay won! And Greenbay won the second SuperBowl. Somewhere in time in the last 45 years, they'd been to the SuperBowl one more time, but last night, it was their turn. I enjoy football and as a woman, I think I get to enjoy it more fully than a man. I like the action and the power of the game, no doubt, but I also like the personal stories of the men. I just loved Vince Lombardi, Greenbay's coach way back when. Of course, the Super Bowl trophy is named for him. I was also a big fan of Tom Landry, the coach for the Dallas Cowboys for years and years and I'm not a big fan of Jerry Jones who bought the Dallas Cowboys and got rid of Landry, but that's ancient history, now. Tom Landry was a calm man that really got involved with young people. He spoke many times to address various Fellowships of Christian Athletes. Young people were important to him and teaching was important. Vince Lombardi was a passionate man, he loved football and I loved the movie about his life. Ernest Borgnine played him in the movie. Then there was the book and movie called Brian's song, about a football player that developed cancer in his 20's. That story dealt with the race issue of interracial teammates sharing a room. Gale Sayers was Brian's roommate and dear friend. I realize, as a woman, I get to enjoy their lives as well as their skills. I don't follow football as a religion, like many do, but the SuperBowl always brings back memories. Last night, I was very glad to see the Packers take the Vince Lombardi trophy back to Greenbay. It was time.

Egypt and Gasoline

Not to minimize the things going on in Egypt right now, because it does appear to be growing worse by the day. Oddly, I've taken note of a few bits of information and the chronology in which they unfold. Over a week ago we read that protesters had gathered in what I believe is referred to as Liberty Square . . . The protesters were those speaking out against the current leader that has been at the helm for about 30 years. If it isn't a dictatorship, there are clearly no term limits. The protesters were peaceful but large in number. Now before Mubarak announced that he would not seek re-election, all the internet service was shut down or rerouted. I believe, also for a brief time, the phone service was interrupted. That, we know was not the work of the anti-administration protesters. Now, I've found it highly suspect that suddenly American conservatism feels strongly favorable toward Mubarak. Oh, I know Egypt has been an ally, I think that came about in agreement for the gift of the Suez Canal, which will come up again later in the blog. Now, once Mubarak announced he wouldn't run next September, the protesters didn't find that acceptable, and you know, I wondered why he ever thought they would. I don't know how free the people of Egypt truly live, but I'm guessing it would be a little frightening to be a protester going home with the same government for another 9 months. I think I'd wonder if there wasn't just going to be a big round-up of dissidents. Then came the anti-protesters in favor of Mubarak and now we have violence. That tells me those in protest of Mubarak just may have something to say and might have good cause for having gathered. I don't know, I'm not there, just sayin' . . . So now that there's violence and blood shed, Egypt gets their internet and phone service back. Interesting exchange, but the violence continues, and of course the US is putting the pressure on. Now, as to why I included gasoline in the title. The conservative radio listeners are being led to believe that the problems in Egypt are affecting the price of gasoline and the Suez Canal will not be open for business to oil tankers, therefore they have to go around South America to get here, thus raising the price of gasoline. Well, the price of gasoline hit over $3.00 a gallon before Egypt erupted. And I remember hearing the economic prognostications for 2011 included $4.00 a gallon gasoline and probably $5.00 a gallon by 2012. I just can't help but wonder. Which came first, the idea to raise the cost of fuel or the reason for the increase of the cost of fuel. If Egypt's the reason, then I'd say the Oil Companies got ahead of themselves. I'm guessing this situation in Egypt will become Carte Blanche for the Oil Companies.
And of Asher he said, Let Asher be blessed with children; let him be acceptable to his brethren, and let him dip his foot in oil. Torah of Holy Scripture

Just Thinking

I took note of a case a few years ago in which a newly wed died on her honeymoon. I'm not sure why the headline caught my attention in the beginning, other than it's just heart wrenching to hear about or read about someone dying at such a happy time in their life. I mean, for many of us, the wedding is pretty much the end of the concept of happiness together, so I do take note. I remember reading about the young man that was killed in an accident on the way to his wedding, and recently the bride that surprised burglars and was found dead by her new husband in their honeymoon suite. I just don't like to think this happens, but I know it does and it seems I have to follow the headlines when the subject appears. Well, back to this situation of a few years back. A young couple from Alabama got married and honeymooned in Australia. They went scuba diving and she drowned. Now, I believe he was an experienced scuba diver, so that right away makes me wonder what kind of husband watches that happen, but there's more to make you think less of him. He had discussed increasing her life insurance policy and becoming her beneficiary before the wedding. Well, even so, that can be okay, if it's a mutual discussion. I remember my husband bringing up the concept of a pre-nup. Wish I'd gone with that . . . Anyway, it seems men are becoming more concerned about their financial security in marriage. I find that a bit bothersome, but I'll still say the evidence could be circumstantial, although I'm thinking he seems pretty questionable, by now. Funny, men used to marry for sex and women for security and now it appears those roles have reversed . . . or worse. Now, back to the "bereaved groom." In the questionable death of his new bride, he eventually plead guilty to some lesser charge and actually served time in Australia. Now he's come back to the states and an Alabama grand jury has decided to indict him on a kidnapping charge and some sort of murder plan or plot charge. Now, suddenly I'm not so happy with Alabama. I do think this guy is a cad and probably much worse, considering the circumstances and his plea, but come on, Alabama. How many of us women believe some guy is on the up and up. The crime for which he plead guilty occurred in Australia and that's where he served. The bride was not kidnapped, she married him and went with him of her own free will. As for charging him in some sort of murder charge for hatching the plot in Alabama, that's crossing the line of thought police. Alabama, there are enough rumors about the state of Alabama as it is . . . Do you really want the reputation of arresting people for thinking?
for YHWH seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but YHWH looketh on the heart. history of Holy Scripture

Consumer Spending Up . . .

December marked .07% increase in consumer spending. No kidding??? That increase wasn't due to lavish holiday gifts, either! Gasoline and grocery prices are up, I'm guessing by even more than .07%, but the average consumer couldn't scrape together any more money than we did. If we'd have had more, who knows, maybe we could have actually bought something special for the holidays. I spoke to many people who stated their holidays were cut back and more conservative in their gift giving, as well as the gifts they did give were of a more practical nature. It wasn't a holiday gift, but a very practical birthday gift for which I heard a true and very enthusiastic thank you. Let me explain. My dad is pretty frugal,as well as, shall we say fiscally comfortable, and he enjoys his coffee, regardless of the price of beans and tariffs. From time to time I've gotten him some gourmet coffees as gifts, for which he thanks me, but his last birthday, I actually heard enthusiasm in his voice. It was no simple courtesy, he was happy to receive his gift. What was it? A Casey's Gift Card. That's right, nothing spectacular, nothing fancy, just the Gift Card in his birthday card, with the note that said, "Coffee's on us!" Love . . . He said that was something he would put to good use! I mentioned it would go a lot farther buying coffee than it would gasoline and he said that was the great thing, he could use it for either. Daddy's is not in a position to need that gift, it was a perk, but many people in this country need more than that, just to attempt to continue to survive. Many people in this country are not just barely making it, they are over extended to try to barely make it. So, if I multiply this sort of giving and enthusiastic receiving, on a national basis and compare it to consumer spending, which I'm guessing would be a pretty reasonable thing to do, I arrive at the conclusion that our consumer spending is going on necessities or very modest perks. I don't think consumer spending has risen because we are all back to full swing and enjoying the luxuries of life. If my dad, who has worked hard all his life, always saved a percent of his income, and invested wisely; considers coffee and gasoline a thoughtful gift, just what does the consumer spending index tell us? Consumer spending is up because people still have to buy food and gasoline and pay for utilities, and all those products have gone up. Consumer spending is up because the prices have gone up and we've accepted that fact!
Yea, behold, being planted, shall it prosper? Prophet of Holy Scripture

When You Hope Goodbye is Only Farewell . . .

I don't frequently blog publicly, about personal matters. I prefer to share my personal opinion about public matters. Today is one of those times, though, I'm spillin' it! I've been doing a radio show for the last two years, and as you've probably guessed, I'm not as famous as Rush or Sean or Glenn. Now, I started this show, basically because I heard G-d tell me to do a radio show, and to go to a station in Monett. So, my husband made a phone call and set up an appointment. I had no idea what I was going to say to the station manager/owner, and to be truthful, I don't think Dewayne was terribly impressed upon our first meeting, but he was willing to give it a chance. Interestingly, the station was in the process of relocating, so it's as if I truly just had a window of opportunity when I heard, Monett. I knew the show was just for a specified time period, so I wanted to enjoy every moment of it, and for the most part I did . . . There was the time when I actually saw the total minutes on the contract and nearly panicked, but I got over it. Then there was the nausea every Thursday morning all the way to the station, that disappeared instantly when the bumper music began, but I enjoyed doing the show and truly enjoyed preparing the shows. My producer, Dan, is awesome and he participated through the show. Dan immediately was really great. He knew I was a religiously incorrect minister, my political incorrectness is obvious almost instantly, and all in all I'm a bit quirky, but he still boldly participated. His involvement in the show was completely unrehearsed and totally spontaneous. Not only did he keep all the right buttons pushed and mics live, he turned the show into an on air conversation that I certainly couldn't have done alone. When my grandkids came as my guests, he made sure everyone had chairs . . . and microphones . . . and headphones! The kids loved it! Which brings me to yet another unexpected blessing. I made a friend, and I mean the kind of friend you know you'll hear it straight and can say it straight. Even as I type this, I have no idea what Janet's official title is, in that I think she can do any and all of what it takes to run that station. Besides all that, she always had a stash of candy for my visiting "grand guests." She's one of those hard working, driven women that appears to be able to do anything, and always looks "together." Sometimes after the show she and I'd chat and laugh, sharing information and insight that just over the course of the time, developed into a valued friendship. It's odd, we have similar strengths and are probably similar type women, yet I don't believe our paths would have ever crossed anywhere except the show called "Choosing Life" on KSWM. Janet is petite, and I'm well, not. She's quite the cosmopolitan style business woman and I'm well, not. She's knowledgeable and high-tech, and I make my own soap and milk goats, but . . . We're both very goal oriented, achievement oriented women and have joked on more than one occasion about our lack of patience. After I'd put my foot in my mouth, through our conversation by comparing her patience to mine . . . This great realization hit me:
She and I don't lack patience, we just like to see results, right away!
New opportunities and responsibilities have beckoned and I had to make a difficult decision. I signed off the air today. I didn't realize what an emotional time it would be . . . still is, but we all agreed that if time and scheduling permitted, I'd be back. It has been one of those things in life that just blossomed into more than I would have ever imagined. So, I truly hoped today, as I said good-bye, it's really only farewell for now. Everyone at the station was great, always kind, always friendly, and it's just a rare blessing when smart, successful, attractive women get to be friends!
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Is It Politics as Usual?

Rahm Emanuel has appealed the court's decision that would remove his name from the ballot for the mayoral race. The State Supreme Court reviewed his case. I don't know about anyone else, but I can honestly say I wasn't surprised at all. I mean Bill Clinton has already been there campaigning for him and he resigned from his post with the current administration to do this. And what's really fascinating is, you'd think any one of these politicians would have known what the rules were and to be checking into it before it came to this! Word's in, and I wasn't surprised, as I'm sure many others saw this coming. Rahm Emanuel is indeed above the rules. He will have his name on the mayoral ballot. I've looked at this both ways. I mean he was serving his country to be absent from Chicago, but renting his house out did remove his residency. If he'd have just left the house empty and checked on it, or better yet, employed someone to house sit, I'd have been all for his right to be on the ballot, but as it stands, he seems to be just one more political opportunist that can make money, gain power, and have his day in court, when others are denied.

Meanwhile in Florida, there is a lawmaker that wants teachers to grade parents. I'm going to say it just because I can. Teachers for the most part like to be in control. They usually run a pretty tight ship or are the type that like all eyes on them, but they are comfortable in charge. And we know legislators have no problem with control issues, they enjoy control, they campaign to have control, and now a member of the Florida legislature has a bill on the floor for teachers to grade parents. That's right, according to how their kids arrive and how they do in class. I think the criteria, which is not stringent, the student is to be on time, had breakfast, homework done, and I don't know, something else. Anyway, most parents are on top of these basics and I'm guessing the ones that aren't don't care if they get a satisfactory grade. They are out of school. It just seems one step closer to the Nanny State or Big Brother. Demographics would already indicate, if a parent is unconcerned about their child's breakfast or homework, I'm guessing a grade won't mean anything, either.

SOTU speech. Not so noticeably impressive. Of course, the seating arrangements were noteworthy, and the bipartisan applause was more frequent than in past years. Seems folks are realizing politicians that give wonderful speeches are just that, great speakers. Most of us know regardless of the hopeful rhetoric of two years ago, his highest approval rating was the day after he was inaugurated, as in before he'd done anything. From my perspective he seems to be much more popular as a campaigner or candidate than he has been after actually having the job.
Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty . . .

Remembering Jack LaLanne

I awoke this morning to the news that Jack LaLanne had passed away at the age of 96. His life was a testament to the lifestyle he promoted. I laid there listening to the news while remembering that some of my earliest childhood memories were of his television show. I couldn't have been more than three, when it seemed every morning, at least week-day mornings, my mom worked out with Jack LaLanne. It was black and white TV, so I have no idea what color his jumpsuit was, but I remember very clearly his set; as he did his basic calisthenics with housewives across America. I also remember his wife in the background of the set, and I think I remember him calling her by name, but as I read today, her name, I couldn't help but take notice. Elaine LaLanne is just quite a moniker. I think what I remember the most about Jack LaLanne was the fact that he's been around my entire life promoting health and now, here I am in my 50's. There must be something to that healthy eating and exercise, eh! I remember his vitamins and his juicer and to be honest I really didn't realize he was still so physically active at that time. I heard today, right up until he took ill, he was still doing his workouts. The man invented gym equipment, and some of his pictures of him up in his 90's looked great. He really did live what he believed in and it showed. I have no idea what his spiritual or emotional perspective was, but he took good care of his body and it served him well for many years. Now, in looking back, he was nearly the age I am now, when I was a kid watching him lead America in healthy exercise. I never heard or read anything but good things about Jack LaLanne. As I mentioned, I don't know his spiritual beliefs or emotional support system, but his life was one of "living what one believed!"
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

A Matter of Concern

Years ago and some time before I got on the Internet, a real concern crossed my mind. I could see technology being very instrumental in a world wide government and President Bush 41 had already mentioned the New World Order and 1000 points of light, so it didn't seem like much of a leap to connect the internet with power and control. So far, I haven't missed that call, and I'm by far not the only one that saw it coming. I'm not trying to lay this evil government of the beast, at the feet of just one American leader, either, it's been being built for my entire lifetime and history indicates, long before that. The book of Daniel clearly indicates this last earthly government will be a fashioned, composite. It's still not fully assembled yet, but it is getting close and continues to have pieces placed in every administration. I've laid the groundwork here, to get to my main point which is the connection between the internet and the Revelation 13. As more and more of our commerce and banking becomes e-transactions, and medical records have been heading there officially since 2004, I think it's time to point out my earlier concern. Everything in life is becoming connected by the world wide web, a.k.a.: www. The author of the Revelation made mention of a number 666. In Hebrew, the letters have numerical value, as well as some duplication in translation, meaning . . . The Hebrew alphabet contains only 22 letters, all consonants. The letter "Vav" when translated from the Hebrew may be rendered English to be either a "u," a "v," or a "w." The numerical value of "Vav" is 6. If the prophesied New World Order is managed and controls through technology, it really doesn't seem to be much of a stretch, to connect the Mark of the Beast, 666 to www.
Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

Sick of Subjective Pseudo Science?

I read in the news Saturday night, that a victim of last week's shooting has been taken into custody against his will and placed in some sort of re-education camp a.k.a. mental health facility, because he mumbled something that someone decided was a possible threat to himself or another. I've wondered if the man that clicked his camera phone and made the statement was simply making the statement of how fast it can all happen. This subjective pseudo science nonsense is just that, nonsense, but the money must be good. At least I presume it is, since those in that field have sold their souls. It's really been one ordeal after another since the Tucson shooting. I got a glimpse of what was coming about 10 years ago, and I have tried to warn people, but to basically no avail. Well, I think it will become more obvious, very quickly. It's not like this poor man who was shot hasn't been through enough, but some "expletive" with a little bit of authority decides to make matters worse. I'm at the point of realizing, those of us with a few quirks or eccentricities could end up in the "re-education camps" for an unspecified period of time, very soon, while those in control and those with the certification take full advantage of what has been accomplished by us odd folks. It's getting serious, here, and it's going to get worse. The mental health workers will do in America exactly what the Nazis did in Germany in the 30's and 40's; and they will attempt to rob the chosen ones of their G-d given inheritance with involuntary "care." The whining, accusing tea bagger is not making this any easier. Trent Humphries is no more a victim in Tucson that the rest of us that weren't there that day and are not recovering or mourning the loss of loved ones. So just how far away are we from being labelled a danger to ourselves and others, for having our own uniqueness? Get a clue. In a week's time, look what's happened. This tea bagger claims that the comments made by the sheriff last week caused all sorts of hate e-mail, yet the political vitriol of the talking heads and maps with sights are non-influential. Which way is it, Mr. Humphries, do tell? Those that are working for the government in mental health facilities are making a very "decent" living and enjoying freedom, while the creative patients just attempting to survive, are issued 3 changes of clothes, allowed a few hobby supplies and/or books. I hate what these special people are going through, I just have to remember though, as a child of G-d; I can't hate the ones that are doing it to them . . . but it is tempting. We've been discussing this at another site and one of my associates there gave permission to quote him, so credit for the following quote belongs to Scutter@NeoshoForums.com. "Just remember that the first group of folks that Hitler killed off were the residents of Germany's Mental Health Institutions, ES. He then went after the Homosexuals and the JW's and finally got around to the Communists, Trade Unionists and the Jewish Community. It seems to be a small step but one thing justifies another and one involuntary "evaluation" pretty much ruins a life."
You know, I am looking forward to the day when Scripture is fulfilled and all those that destroyed lives in the "name of mental health" will be judged on the same merit.
He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity . . . Prophetic promise in G-d's Word

A Note to Sarah Palin

I've written several folks here from this blog, many of them with a much more prominent position than yours. I've written Presidents, Prime Ministers, Preachers, Pundits, and now you. First, as a non-anonymous blogger, let's begin with a woman to woman chat. Everything going on isn't really about you. Remember when you got mad at Katie Couric for asking difficult questions, like what do you read? And you said she wasn't the center of "everybody's" universe? Well, Sarah, it's like this; you aren't either! The fact that a sheriff said the political rhetoric has become too vitriolic and made references to gun metaphors being inappropriate in politics, is commendable. The Sheriff of that county has his hands full and he isn't crying or whining about the feed back he's received, nor has he quit in the middle of this horror. He is still doing the task at hand, and right now, it is an ugly task. It is not the media's fault that your family has so many notable situations going on. Nor is it the media's problem that you will air your dirty laundry for your moment of fame. As a matter of fact, Sarah, we in the "lower 48" wouldn't even know who you are, were it not for the media, that you continue to trash while courting. If you do not feel your words influence anyone, then why endorse candidates and why give interviews? If you believe all of your listeners are level headed and logical, I have to question your ability to process reality. We are in a world in which many things do not make sense and a number of people do not make sense. We live in the country that has more prisoners per capita than any country in the world, and remember the ones in prison are just the ones that have been caught. After two years, I still don't know who Trig's mother is, but that's not my business, Todd appears to be very fond of the little guy and he looks well taken care of. Now, as for your "mama grizzly" reference. I believe it was a clip from your own reality show that spoke of the mama grizzlies and how they teach and take care of their young. I believe it was you that said we could learn a great deal from them. Funny, I didn't see or hear any reference to "papa grizzlies" teaching the young, while the mamas enjoyed attention in the lower 48. To be honest, here, I've overlooked most of this, because I simply believe you, like most politicians aren't really bright enough to be orchestrating the coming together of the power as the people are divided and conquered. I just sort of saw you as the cute GOP cheer leader that kept all those GOP-ers happy and proud and feeling their oats. No problem, to each their own and you are a pretty woman, and I'm a firm believer in using one's assets, so you go girl! But today, after all this country has been through in the last few days, your removal of certain posts indicate a level of awareness that some folks could connect poorly spoken and inappropriate graphs to commit horrendous acts. I do not think you are responsible for Jared Loughner's unspeakable actions Saturday, but you are responsible for your words and for graphs that are associated with your name and allude to firearms or violence. Think about it, even the reference to "mama grizzly" has a connotation of potential attack and bloodshed. I realize it's your vernacular, but if you are going to continue to seek this limelight, you have to be aware that what you are saying doesn't always resonate with only logical people. As a matter of fact, while I'm on that topic, I don't know any logical level headed people that think you make a lot of sense. Your base seems a bit erratic to me, just sayin . . . Now, as for today's video, you know a number of your faithful followers feel a bit persecuted, you have raised that ideology on several occasions, and so knowing this, you mention "blood libel." Listen Sarah, if you aren't smart enough to know the potential fall out of that, your handlers should be and if they aren't, you need new handlers. And if you do have an understanding of that term and used it, then you should feel responsible for the potential repercussions. Referencing an anti-Semitic term, in response to comments made after a Jewish legislator is shot. Really, Sarah, really? I'm of the opinion, as much time as you've had, to supposedly make your response to these so called "empty political attacks" you had time to do your homework and know what "blood libel" means. The potential for this is outlandish for those that may feel victimized and persecuted for their beliefs. I truly hope this was spoken in ignorance, but then that sort of ignorance should have no prominence in media or politics.
. . . grievous words stir up anger. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

It's All in the Presentation and Packaging

I couldn't help but notice a news item yesterday. I heard it yesterday morning on the 6:00 am news, but not in the next hour, and I had to really search for it online. I've noticed how many news items do get repeated and how many simply don't . . . for whatever reason. The news item that got stuck in my craw yesterday was the way the Kansas Gubernatorial Inaugural Dinner was reported. Oh, I know, I'm going to sound like a talking head on this topic, and I wouldn't make a big issue of it, were it not for the mention of charity. As most of us non-politicians are aware, this country is in economic trouble. Even though TPTB are telling us the recession ended a year and a half ago, many of us haven't noticed that, just yet. Not to mention the local governments are still whining about being broke. Cities are figuring ways to file bankruptcy and states are trying to figure ways to let them, without the rest of the cities following suit. Then there are, what; half of the states that are horribly in the hole and losing ground quickly. Well, Kansas just happens to be one of those states. I believe Kansas was having trouble giving their citizens tax refunds last year, and things really haven't improved. Now that they have elected a republican, there is talk of cutting programs, of course! And that is where I jump in with some fascinating information. Former Senator Brownback is now Governor Brownback and he had his inaugural dinner last Saturday. In light of the current economic situations, many governor's "scaled back" their gala events, and Governor Brownback claimed to do so, too. Governor Brownback went so far as to say that any extra funds that were raised after the dinner was paid for, would be donated to charity. Now, here's for the "funny-spin" part of the story. While some governors that scaled back had hamburgers and hotdogs on the grill, Senator Brownback had beef tenderloins. Sounds like some sort of breaded patty on a bun doesn't it? Beef tenderloins, when wrapped in a strip of bacon is better known as filet mignon! Now, since it's politics, I don't know if the pork was included, but the tenderloin of beef is the highest end cut on the critter. If that's scaled back, just what would Governor Brownback have served if times were good? And mentioning the rest going to charity . . . nice touch, there Governor. I'm sure Kansans are sleeping better now that there is a fiscal conservative on watch!
He that speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

A Moment of Silence

Now that prayer is politically incorrect, what do we do as a nation in the face of tragedy? Well, it is a moment of change. A moment of silence is one moment that acknowledges we, as a people, do not have all the answers and for one brief moment, we'll cease from casting blame, but just for one moment . . . The political rhetoric will return and at some point, G-D will be allowed into the social conversation, because someone will ask why HE allowed this tragedy. It seems that's about the only time it is politically correct, now, to refer to G-D; when we are blaming HIM in the form of a question. A sort of social game in fashion of Jeopardy, with religious overtones. Now, as I read the reports regarding the Congresswoman, the little girl, the judge and the alleged assailant, I am heartbroken. I know G-D allowed this, but I also believe G-D did not ordain this and that isn't easy to express in this Romanesque society, we call America. Rather than a moment of silence, I pray for Gabrielle Giffords, and the families of those that are grieving the loss of their loved ones, and for the recovery of the rest of those that were injured, but more than all of that, I pray that those in America would truly see the condition of America. I also pray that the remnant would remain strong and true to our G-D. There is a matter than I'm not really praying about at this time, but I truly do wish the media would stop laying the groundwork for an insanity defense . . . It's as if this individual is being offered an insanity defense served up on a silver platter and I think that is wrong. I also believe all politicians that use violent innuendo in their rhetoric should be held accountable for their words, but then G-D's Word already says they will, so I'll leave that alone. I can't expect a G-Dless nation to uphold the Word of G-D at this time, but I do pray that our politics and our media do not lay the groundwork for cold blooded murder to be accepted on the grounds of insanity. I, personally, believe there is no longer any time for silence.
If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. History of Holy Scripture

How About Putting Our Money Where Our Mouths Are?

Our country is quite an interesting place these days. The rest of the world has called us rude for years, but with the advent of technology, we've outdone ourselves in the area of rudeness. We also seem to have "progressed" to the point we are able to separate our firm convictions from our actual lifestyles. I hold to the old adage, that we actually live what we believe and it's time to put up or shut up! Just where would the economy of the world's largest democracy be without communism? Or for those that prefer to split hairs and insist this is a capitalistic republic, even better. Just where would America's capitalism be without the imports made affordable by China's communism? I know a number of people that will not contribute to the United Way, because it is claimed to fund Planned Parenthood and yet those same people will go to Wal-Mart and buy items marked "made in China," where abortion is not a choice, but mandated. That's right, here in America, the anti-choice people who do not want to fund the choices of women here in our country, will subsidize the loss of choice for women in another country. I'm not telling anyone even what view they should have on any of the topics mentioned in this blog, I'm just saying folks need to actually back their view. China also censors their media, and has rampant child labor. Why do we support the way of life that we claim to find abhorrent? Has anyone considered when the lack of pollution control in China's industry renders that country uninhabitable, China just might decide to foreclose on us? Do we really need so many trinkets from China that we are willing to sell out our values? Or do we just not really mind what happens to the money if we get something in return? Clearly, right now, we produce so little in this country, we'd have to make everything at home to avoid financially supporting things we do not believe in or condone. I'm not suggesting a full retail boycott, but we can start somewhere.
. . . but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. New Testament

What Will They Think of Next?

My husband went to the Department of Revenue yesterday to renew the truck and trailer tags. Now, this is a little truck and just a 5 X 8 trailer we use to haul livestock and hay and whatever needs hauling . . . This isn't, however; about the unbelievable wait, which frequently results in the opportunity to finally be at the window, only to discover some piece of the required paperwork is missing. This is about something that I cannot even Google to see when it became part of our biannual dreaded tradition we call vehicle registration and/or license renewal. As my husband sat at the table while I fixed dinner, he began reading the list of fees, we'd paid. Perhaps if we had a television, we wouldn't entertain ourselves in such a manner, but, I couldn't help but take note of a couple of items in the list. On both our truck and trailer receipts were charges for an agent fee. Since I can't find this specific code on the state.gov page and as I mentioned it was on both, I'm guessing the agent fee has something to do with collecting the fee. The truck had an addition fee for railroad crossing added to the regular traditional fee of registration for "beyond local." I don't know the percentage of the railroad crossing fee, but the percentage added for the agent is about 15%. The trailer, on the other hand, had no charge for railroad crossings, but there was a re-issuance fee for an embossed plate. We hadn't lost the other one, but the state changed the design, and apparently passed the expense on to us. The added fees to obtain and pay the required fees on the trailer amounted to more than 20% of the required registration fee. I believe America has officially surpassed both ancient Egypt and ancient Rome. Since licensing is required to be legally on the road, we have what appears to be Surcharges on Registration fees from the Department of Revenue . . . We paid our taxes on all this fun at the courthouse, same day. I can't even imagine a full itemized bureaucratic breakdown on that bill!
. . . that ye shall give the fifth part unto Pharaoh . . . Torah of Holy Scripture
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. New Testament

Moving Right Along

Joe Miller has determined that he will no longer contest the certification of Lisa Murkowski to the Senate, but; and it is a big but . . . he will continue the fight in federal court. I don't really care what Joe Miller does, but I find his followers absolutely hilarious in their convoluted logic. Just for the record, though, I thought it was the Tea Party that wanted more power to remain in the states, rather than federal rule over state matters . . . I guess that's just in certain cases where the state agrees with the one complaining.
In other news:
The housing market worsened. Let's see if I can gift wrap this as well as the government. House values continue to drop. The unemployment rate continues to hover around 10% and that doesn't count those that have already dropped off the roster or those that have taken two lesser paying part time jobs. Gold and silver continue to escalate and yet the recession ended a year and a half ago. All righty, then.
I heard that although spending was supposedly up this holiday season, Consumer confidence is down. Of course, I'm still expecting a revision on the boasted spending. I keep hearing the various explanations, but something just doesn't ring true. Could it be, we are being told what TPTB want us to believe? Surely not!
A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

DADT

I have a certain opinion of gay rights. I think in a country that claims to be founded on freedom for all, but Bible based, there is an automatic conflict that will not be resolved, which is what has become conservative vs. liberal politics. The religious right want their rights and one of those rights appears to be, the right for everyone to live according to what they think is right. Now, the liberal politics are just as annoying. They want to be the nanny state and make everybody play nice, no winners, no losers, just everybody be different but the same. So, we have the manufactured paradox that cannot be settled politically, because both sides are wrong! Our nation was no more founded on Scripture than Iran or China. Both of those countries have laws against murder and theft, as well, and they have many stringent laws besides for which the consequence are grave, literally. Now, to get back to DADT, the real reason for my concern is not that I want to tell other people how to live, because in my humble opinion, G~D already has, but there is a bigger issue. Our military has been among the strongest and most feared in the world, but we have turned our soldier's existence into a political free for all that may have far reaching ramifications. We are in two wars in the Middle East and those Middle Easterners are pretty straight laced and straight forward about their feelings about being straight. So what happens when DADT is repealed and gay soldiers can serve openly. What happens if the gay soldier becomes a prisoner of war? How will they be treated? What happens if the various terrorizing enemies determine the US military personnel will all be treated as if they are gay? What will happen to the well being of those that are already thrust into harm's way? And what will happen to our military for those that don't want the repeal? What happens if 1/3 of our Marines don't reenlist? What happens to the soldiers that come out, when they are dealing with other soldiers that just don't like the idea, and that is a fact. For every person that thinks gay is okay, there are just as many who take issue with it. I didn't think women in a combat unit was a good idea either. Although I am a conscientious objector, I just truly think these men that believe they are to take up arms and defend the country are best left to not deal with politically correct issues under fire. I'm thinking, coming out, may entail more than anyone has really considered. If we are going to make laws contrary to the Word of G~D, asking HIM to bless the troops and bring victory is just a bit presumptuous, I'd say.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of YHVH our G~d. from a Psalm of Holy Scripture

What is the Actual Cost of the Food Bill?

I'm so disgusted by this lame duck Congress. First, they are giving the impression the side of power has already shifted, but it hasn't. Then they throw around a few issues and potential bills to distract us, while they pass laws that change our very existence. Oh, I know, I've read both sides of the pros and cons of this S.510 food bill, a.k.a. the Monsanto bill. Our lame duck Senate passed it and hopefully it has to go back through the lame duck House before it actually can become law. Unfortunately, it's well on it's way and from what I can read about it, this bill contains every power grab I've been warning against since I wrote "Threshold of Technocracy," which, by the way; is still available at the Website as well as amazon.com . . . Because there is more to come. I'm truly torn about all this. I'm so angry at our representatives for doing this, and yet it's been prophesied, so it's inevitable . . .
From the time I began writing this blog, calmed myself enough to attempt to finish this blog, this bill passed the House. It's all ready for a signature from the man living in the White House. I am so aggravated at this lame duck chicken outfit we call Congress.
What will become of our nation, as we give up our right, even to the food we put on our table? Although I've compared our nation to ancient Egypt, many times over in the past few years, we need to remember a few things. Most of us are already paying more taxes than were instituted through the famine. Most of us have gone into debt through the abundant years. Most of us don't have livestock or land to give in exchange for seed or a place to plant it. I'm guessing, just like the health care reform, we don't have a clue as to the actual cost of the Food Bill!
And when money failed in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, all the Egyptians came unto Joseph, and said, Give us bread: for why should we die in thy presence? for the money faileth. Torah of Holy Scripture

More of the Shell Game . . .

The Bush era tax-cuts have been extended for two more years and Unemployment for another year. The accounting technique for all these great "gimmes" is getting quite interesting. Everything is being explained to spread out over the next 10 years, so that should mean none of the people that are truly reaping the benefits will be alive to pay for it. Oh, I almost forgot, Social Security withholding is dropping two percent just for 2011, so rather than being broke by 2018, it should hit the liability column about the same year mandatory health care reaches it's full potential against the American people. Actually Social Security paid out more than it took in this year, 2010, first time since it's inception. So, although it's still operational, it's hit this point 8 years earlier than projected. Not to worry, though, I read Medicare will remain solvent until 2029, because of cost cuts through the health care reform. Sounds rather ominous to me. What I find interesting in all of this, if you can call it that, is the fact that we are being told that the President was out-bluffed by the presumed now powerful republicans. Hold on though, and you know I'm not a republican, but truth matters. This bill just went through the same Senate and same House that gave us the Health Care Reform. The newly elected shift in power isn't there yet! So, now the democrats and the President claim to have been out-powered by the republicans who are still in the minority? Just how does that work. I get so tired of our politicians acting like we the people are too stupid to realize what they are up to. This is the lame duck session of the same bunch that shoved three or four trillion dollars worth of mess down our collective throat for the last two years. Nancy is still the speaker of the House and the Senate is still primarily democrat, so although we are being told the paradigm of power has shifted, that hasn't yet happened and won't until January 3, 2011.
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. New Testament