Pride and Prejudice

I'm going to get a bit personal today here at Contemplation, because I'm being led to expand the ministry and this subject has been on my heart in preparation for some time.  It's so easy to get caught up in the "them against us" mentality, and to argue over moral legislation, but I have a different perspective.  I don't argue against what I don't believe in, I try to make the positive change before it comes to that. While the decided adults are arguing the results of the SCOTUS regarding DOMA, there is a generation of kids who will be greatly influenced by the outreach of the new agenda.  I heard over and over at the celebration, that "it's about the children;" and it is! 

I refer to myself as a disenfranchised or solitary heterosexual. I am a woman, and I identify as a woman. I'm not attracted to women, I love men, but as friends, and so far they feel same toward me . . . I'm not speaking against marriage, I've tried it several times.  As it turns out, I am passionately platonic . . . I support marriage for those who can do it, but personally, I celebrate celibacy. 

I'm addressing the fact that there are individuals who do not desire heterosexual intimacy but do not identify LGBT, and we're being left out; disenfranchised. I think people, especially young people, are being pressured to gender identify and it's causing confusion for many people. There has always been religious pressure to marry, but not all of us are marriage material. Paul referred to this in I Corinthians 7, and I received a real revelation that our sexually exploitative society pressures everyone to “identify.” It used to be okay for men to be confirmed bachelors or cranky curmudgeons and spinsters could be crazy cat ladies, and that was okay! Everyone doesn't have to fit a sexual stereotype, although I guess that description was pretty stereotypical.

I wasn't the "princess type" Daddy's girl, I refer to myself as the un-son that could put a spiral on a football and go off the diving board before I was old enough to go to school. I identified with my Dad's interests, but never even thought it required a sexual identity, just interest.   My mom, however; thought otherwise, so I was forced to do feminine things like play the piano, with the musical talent of a rusty gate hinge. It's like all the things she wanted me to do, I wasn't good at, which certainly could have caused issues . . . She sewed and dressed my younger sister and I alike until I was in Jr. High, which did, in fact, inspire me to take up sewing so I could make my own clothes. 

On top of being a bit on the tomboyish side, I was the darkest child in my classes until desegregation.  In elementary school I was bullied, so I didn't really have friends, but due to my home life, even though bullied, school was my refuge.  None of us know which children are seeking acceptance or refuge now, really; for whatever reason.

 As I got older, my friends at school were mostly guys and they didn't want to date me.  I usually did have one or two “token” female friends, in an attempt to not just be "one of the guys."   In those days, I was not dating material.  I was too dark for the white guys, and there were very few black families in that small community, who pretty much did their own socializing. Back then, I was just an awkward brown dork, but now 35 to 40 years later, somebody would be telling me otherwise . . . I would have been targeted [invited] for this social agenda!

Some people simply do not define themselves sexually, beyond what YHWH has defined; in male or female.  Some people are more defined by interests than gender identity.  I believe there are a number of young people who just don't fit the gender stereotypes or the "fit in" herd mentality, who are being programmed to believe they are LGBT.  Now that a "Q" has been added to this agenda, for those who would "question," I have a question. 

How many young people have ever taken their questions about sexuality to their parents or religious leaders? 

I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.  But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.  -  the Apostle Paul

Freedom . . . Nothin' Left to Take

Snowden is in the news every day and I continue to wonder how this turns out.  Of course, he's charged with something . . . he didn't "just follow orders."  It's getting easier and easier to see why those guys at Nuremberg chose the answer they did.  I'm not condoning their actions at all, as there is no excuse for what took place in Nazi Germany, but just comparing the fact that they didn't have the chutzpah Mr. Snowden did.  I'm finding the questions and comments quite interesting.  Is he a traitor or a hero?  One comment stood out amidst all the rest.  "He's not a hero, he simply did the right thing."

I'd like to think most Americans have a line they have drawn that would simply be where they dig their heels in and say, "That is beyond what I can accept as acceptable."  I don't know where that is for others, and I don't think others know where that is for me, but it is essential that we each examine ourselves and truly determine where that is.

This land of the free and home of the brave is under surveillance, and the same power that can monitor my phone, cannot find the illegal immigrants or stop a bombing.  I'm reminded of a time several years ago, when I found a "home made bomb" at the corner of my house.  At least that's what the officer called it, when I reported it.  He borrowed my husband's pocket knife to destroy the evidence, explaining that it had enough gun powder in it to blow the corner out of the house, but he didn't opt to make a report.  When I enquired as to why, he said the chances of catching the person who had done this was too slim to put the man power on it.  This was after 9/11 and the USA Patriot Act.

Now this was the same city that was monitoring the height of the grass and giving citations for unexposed brick sidewalks, that resulted in liens against properties.  This was also the same city that was absolutely surrounded by property for sale, but set it's sights on the business property of an independent who had been in business for 50 years.  Within a year of the SCOTUS decision regarding eminent domain, the business man was out of business.

The Powers That Be can take our land, monitor our phone calls, and now randomly take DNA samples.  Oh, I know, it's only under loosely defined arrest circumstances.  How long do you think it will be before a crisis check point uses biometric ID for the victims to be allowed back into the homes in which they have paid for, maintain, and pay their taxes?

To be honest, I'm a bit weary with the religious patriotism and the just following policy nationalism.  The people of our nation are being divided on issues that are already out of our control.  This is not one side of the aisle doing this, it's coming from both parties.  It's been building law upon law, loss of freedom upon loss of freedom . . .  I am not advocating anarchy, I'm advocating awareness!  The choice we have left in this land of the free and home of the brave is simply where we, as an individual say, "I'm brave enough to say this land is no longer free?"

I've included some links, for events that may be coming soon, to a random check point near you!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/03/supreme-court-dna-samples_n_3378379.html

http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/13/opinion/sobel-id-immigration/

When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.  a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Dear Mr. President:

Every President since I became of voting age has received a letter from me, but to be honest, I just wasn't sure about what to write to you.  I can't see much difference between your administration and the previous one, except you seem so aloof.  I will tell you this, I didn't vote for him, but GW had much better correspondent banquets because he didn't mind being the butt of everyone's jokes.  They were really funny, like a roast!  Yet I digress . . .

Now, I know what I want to discuss.  Privacy.

I grew up with an intrusive micro-managing mother who kept a lock on the gate in the backyard.  She listened to my phone calls, read my diary, and her choice in the doctor was like a god.  She laid the groundwork for political correctness with mandated and enforced sibling peacekeeping.  I couldn't wait to grow up and be free!  Well, I was 43, when the USA Patriot Act was signed into being, so I did enjoy about 25 years of freedom.  Believe you me, I know the difference, from both directions in life!

Mr. President, unless you are planning to place yourself in some sort of permanent position of authority, you really don't want everyone counting down the days until 2016, do you?  I mean, I feel Washington DC is far removed from American life that it's just a matter of changing names every 4, 6, or 8 years and noticing the catchy campaign slogans that make useless promises.

I was truly hoping America would wake through the Reagan years, or at least after; but money was more important than freedom and now America is broke and we're losing our freedoms as well.  Mr. President, you have done for America what my mother did for my sister and I.  Locking us all down and making us say the right things, and don't even get me started on medical matters . . . has only served to divide the country further and cause most of us to realize, we're not even being heard.   The US of America is just as dysfunctional as the American family, and as I have learned, only the special interest groups or those in abject lock-step are accommodated.

Mr. President, the democratic party has become just as intolerant, extreme, and out of touch as the republican party; just at the other end of the political spectrum!  I've had the feeling for a few years now, the political agenda in Washington is simply to keep the people divided while our representatives and "leaders" live like aristocratic royalty . . .  For a guy that offered hope and change, and now forward, it seems the opinions of the we the people simply don't matter.  Mr. President, to feel that I'm reliving the invasively mandated, containment of my childhood, was not the change I was hoping for.

Mr. President, Sir, you should know that invasiveness, intrusion, surveillance, and containment are the opposite of freedom.
You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free ~ words of Messiah

Red Herring - IRS

With Congress passing the appeal to Obama Care and the IRS under fire right before it was supposed to become the enforcement arm of mandatory health insurance, I smell a red herring . . .

I could include a few links to the "IRS hearings" going on, but to be honest, I truly do think it's smoke and mirrors.  There is something more ominous than the IRS picking on the Tea Party.  No offense to the Tea Party, but they had pretty much fizzled out and they had their 501c4 granted, even though it was a long and arduous path, which is uncalled for, this still smells like an old red herring . . . or perhaps a blue herring.  Color not withstanding, American politics just stinks.

As Congress plays with Obama Care, yet again, after the Supreme Court has already made a decision, we know that's a herring of some color, too.  Health care in this country has to be reformed on some level.  The fact that the IRS is now under fire tells me the IRS is about to be moved or transferred into a position of great government authority.

Here's the way I see it, and perhaps I sound skeptical, but truth be told, I think terms like skeptical, cynical, and even conspiratorial have replaced the term, logic, in our society.  We simply can not get rid of taxation now.  We can't stay ahead of the debt with taxes!  There has to be some sort of assessment, collection, and enforcement.  We all know that, it's a given.  Without taxes, there is no infrastructure, which by the way has also been neglected and in disrepair while taxes have been collected.  So, basically, these hearings will result in greater governmental power to include the IRS as a powerful arm of authority.  

The IRS is a service of an agency within a department, under the commission of the federal government, yet can't really fire the woman who won't resign . . . The IRS maintains a very nebulous description of what governmental power it truly has, yet exercises great authority.  So much authority, the top officials still get paid while refusing to resign, even after stating they aren't very good at math . . .

I am expecting a new arm of enforcement to arise from all of this.  I expect laws to be in place that the head of this service/agency/department/commission will wield a great deal of power to collect and incarcerate, even more than in the past.  I also believe a great deal of this power will be aimed at those who do not choose to be a part of Health Care Reform.   Cases of opting out of health care for religious reasons are already being prosecuted.  Now, a plan that doesn't meet the government criteria will also be prosecutable, and most everyone who is already using the ER for a primary physician will fall into the category of supplemental vouchers or medicaid.

These red herring hearings will produce a greater connection between oversight and taxation, and the people lose, either way, but with these hearings, some are given the impression they are being heard.  I've listened to a few of these videos and to be honest, much of it seems staged.  We are looking at the true change from presumed freedom to mandatory indentured servitude.  Revision in the IRS will be the path to debtor's prison and manual labor.

We know the Revelation tells us at some point there will be no buying and selling without the mark of the beast.  There is already in America, no buying and selling, no doing business, no taking donations, and now very soon, no health care without the authority of the IRS.

And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.  the Revelation of Holy Scripture

Interesting Coincidence

I realize I've been leaning heavily against Monsanto, but my stand isn't just AGAINST, I'm standing FOR quite a bit, also. I believe we need to get back to the basics designed by our Creator, before it's too late. From the headlines, I'd say we better hurry. Now, realizing the chance of Big Corporations actually changing their ways, is slim to none, we as individuals can at least see what's happening and make a reasonable decision. My decision was repentance and running back to the garden . . . and sharing what I can with whomever is interested and inquires.

This man shouldn't have had to fight the government to do what he's been doing. The USDA and FDA should be protecting him, rather than what he went through. Vernon Hershberger, is a man who appears to be working according to the regulation of a greater power than Big Corp and corrupt government. I do like it when the good guys win . . . and now the other guys.

There have been some very disturbing connections that I believe are far beyond coincidental. Donald Rumsfeld has been the subject of my searches through the years, as well as Clarence Thomas, and now Michael R. Taylor joins their ranks. These three men have a particular professional presence as well as shared career opportunities. They have enjoyed the revolving door between representing Monsanto's interests and government power. Now, of course, there has been no "conflict of interest," just interesting appointments and opportunities between Big business, and Big government, and interestingly it crosses party lines.

Donald Rumsfeld seemed the most defined by party. He was in the private sector through the transition when government began to work for business. When he left the position of Secretary of Defense in the 70's, he became president of GD Searle Co. That company is no longer officially in business, but it brought us aspartame and the approval thereof through his leadership and good republican connections in the White House through the Reagan administration. GD Searle Co managed to acquire several pharmaceutical sibsidiaries before it became a part of Monsanto.

Clarence Thomas was an attorney in St. Louis, and just like Mr. Taylor, one of the clients of his firm was Monsanto. Now, I'm not being conspiranoid here to say, it has to be convenient to have Mr. Thomas on the Supreme Court when Monsanto does lose a case in a lower level court. Monsanto can afford to appeal all the way to the Supreme Court, while the independent farmer loses the case he first won. And of course, there's no reason Judge Thomas should recuse himself, right . . . Keep in mind, while this present administration appears to be running wild, our president still answers to Big business. Clarence Thomas has been on that bench since the first Bush administration.

Now comes Michael R. Taylor. He's been a bit bolder in his use of the revolving door. He goes straight to it. He was in government in the late 70's FDA specifically, as a staff attorney, then went private practice through the Reagan years and managed to get some things changed to redefine risk managment in food additives, lessening the restrictions and oversight . . . Went straight back into FDA accepting a "newly created position" in 1991. Although his name doesn't appear on everything he co-authored, he did a lot to lessen the labeling and reduce restrictions. He moved to the USDA in 1994 and remained there until he temporarily returned to private practice before becoming Vice President for Public Policy at Monsanto, until 2000.

He's been at a think tank since then, until he re-entered politics as Senior Advisor to the FDA Commisioner in 2009. On January 13, 2010, he was appointed to another newly created post at the FDA, this time as Deputy Commissioner for Foods. It almost seems his illustrious career has been one of strategically pressing interests of Biotechnology by way of government oversight. Having now held two newly created posts appointed by Presidents of both parties, Mr. Taylor appears to be quite the bi-partisan trail blazer, while the people are getting burned.

They that did feed delicately are desolate in the streets . . . a Prophet's Lament of Holy Scripture

A Lab in Tornado Alley

Hoof and mouth disease has been eradicated in this country because some very wise people or person made a very wise decision years and years ago. Please allow me to share this awesome information and the upcoming plans.

On a little island off of New York, there is a lab that has been run so efficiently and cautiously that hoof and mouth disease has been basically eradicated in this country, as well as other strains of potentially dangerous disease has been analyzed. The stringency of the protocol has been beyond hospital OR standards. All lab uniforms have remained in that facility, with employees changing, showering, etc. upon leaving. I read if an employee wants to take their kids to the circus, they have to take a vacation to do so. There have been no chances taken, and no precaution overlooked to keep the herds of America safe from hoof and mouth disease.

Now fast forward to this new millenium and the decision that the facility in the harbor was outdated. First there was the big contest as to where the new one would be built. Are you ready? Manhattan, KS won. The building is due to commence in less than a year.

This bothers me on many levels.
First, there is the trust issue of questioning, who in the world with a position of authority, ever nominated one of the agricultural centers of the Midwest to be the new home of death and disease?
Second, Manhattan, KS is in the heart of farm and range country, so rather than isolating a potential problem, any possible leaks could leave the herds of the country in jeopardy.
Third, the possibility of putting down livestock on a precautionary basis wouldn't surprise me at all, especially if there are still any independent ranchers in the vicinity.
Fourth, weather can be affected, even engineered, and the far reaching effects or potential fallout, if you will, is not yet understood. We don't know if making snow in Colorado could adversely affect weather in Kansas.
Fifth, it will, in all probability, cause the official registering of animals and probably microchipping, which will put a lot of independents out of business, due to cost alone, or deeply in debt with no possible sign of recovery. Just where is the fine line between the marking of the beasts and the mark of the beast?

Sixth, it brings out an attitude in me that is somewhere between paranoid and cynical, certainly less than spiritual, that just wants to stand up and scream, "Didn't any of you Bozos in charge ever see the Wizard of Oz?"

Seventh, we've seriously seen the devastation of EF5 tornadoes and claiming to be able to build a structure that can withstand the strongest winds in tornado alley sounds dangerously akin to the statement made about the Titanic being unsinkable.

For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind . . . a Prophet of Holy Scripture

Big Brother, Why Art Thou?

Is it Washington DC politics, or is the White House just a decoy to distract? Washington politics is openly dirty and the legal shenanigans of politicians, for the most part goes unchecked, so why is it that our leaders can be so "transparent" in their disrespect, while "we the people" are being held, constantly, to the ridiculous status of potential criminals? A blatant disregard of tax laws pervaded the appointments of this administration, yet the offenders were still appointed, while children are being labeled criminals at an early age with records that will haunt them the rest of their lives. What is wrong with this picture?

Clearly right and wrong are not the issue and respect of the law is irrelevant. Are the real "powers that be" just seeing what we will put up with and the bondage we will endure, as long as we can choose political sides to blame? Why is it, that our elected and appointed leaders are no longer expected to set a standard?

The IRS is of course gaining power and according to the implications of mandated health care, soon to be a real source of job creation. I can't remember how many new agents will be needed to process the health care mandate. Not to mention, how many full time jobs can be created to make life difficult for political activism. Maybe they'll just give bonuses and overtime for that. Keep in mind the IRS is not actually part of the government, but "hired" to collect and tabulate taxes.
While the IRS is being ramped up to keep the ordinary citizens in fearful obligatory obedience, I'm reminded of the number of appointed politicians we now have lording over us, who didn't have to live in obligation or obedience. I remember, it seemed, every other appointee had a little tax matter to clear up.

While politicians continue to have their own special rules, about allowing ambassadors to die, avoiding taxes, stock piling ammo and creating Executive Orders while tabling and re-voting between vacations, we have real crime to deal with, and across America, we are teaching our children . . .

Contained in this article are some general observation of how the public schools are teaching our children.

Audibly burping in class is rude, no doubt. Actually it's more than an etiquette offense or bad manners, in New Mexico it's a misdemeanor if that alleged accusation is worded properly. In this case the official charge at the time of his booking: “interfering with public education.” Yes, according to the lawsuit filed, he was booked.


Now comes the horrific "crime" of doodling Although, using a marker does indicate something needed to be addressed in this doodling issue, the old school remedy would have been cleaning all the desks, working with the custodian after school or at recess, something reasonable that showed cause and effect. Zero tolerance has turned into zero common sense and certainly is not teaching children that their actions require remedy, but rather are desensitizing them to the justice system, and public education which in this case, both look incredibly stupid.
In all fairness I want to post this link that reports some states are re-evaluating their zero tolerance policies. The article indicated that it may have dawned upon a few folks that zero tolerance has the sum total of zero common sense, as well.

A Standout Student was suspended for the rest of her senior year over taking the wrong lunch to school. She and her dad both say the lunches got mixed up in the morning and nobody realized it until the school searched the lunchboxes for drugs and found the paring knife and whole apple. The father said the paring knife was in there to slice his apple through his lunch, but the school saw it differently because the girl hadn't "confessed" before they found it. Personally, I wouldn't want these kind of people teaching my child. So, she's finishing her senior year online and been charged with a misdemeanor. I'm sure some college, will understand . . .

This next story just makes my blood boil on too many levels. Maybe kids are having so many labels because they simply do not know how to cope with so much stupidity surrounding them. Maybe kids wouldn't have so many disorders and labels if they could just play outdoors in June . . .

Possible sex crime? I cannot believe a 56 year old was a part of making this report? As a 55 year old, all I can say is "Did this educator attend public school in the US, growing up?" "Were they involved in society at all, as a child?" Should someone who apparently does not know the difference between someone who is enamoured and someone who is accosting, be in a position of authority? What in the world is a person this inept in regard to human behavior doing working with children or in education?
Sexual battery Here is another example of adults with no sense.

I'm going to use this last example to bring it on home to my title question. Now a five year old gets a knock on the door, because some cop is "just following orders" because some librarian has her panties in a bunch and executive cabinet appointees can just pay their taxes, when they get caught? Does America really need to be using the brutish man power to intimidate children when adult legislators are evading taxes. I'm guessing economically speaking, collecting the taxes from some high power politicians is a better use of government dollars than cops collecting library fines. http://boston.cbslocal.com/2012/01/02/charlton-library-sends-police-to-collect-overdue-books-from-5-year-old/ Overdue library books and uncollected fines can be charged as a misdemeanor, whereas I believe tax evasion was what put Al Capone in prison

Here is a quote from the New Testament in the words of Messiah regarding the treatment of children.
It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. the Gospel according to Luke 17:2

Riddle Me This . . .

Basement Gardening Bust photo from AP

The man in the article linked above was a simple law abiding citizen of our country, specifically Kansas. As a matter of fact, he and his wife both had CIA clearance at one time . . . I have also included an alternative media link regarding the new Kansas legislation about guns, as well as a newspaper link covering the legislation and the Attorney General's response. Wichita Eagle

All of this has truly raised a very significant question, in my mind. I've included also included a link citing the Bill of Rights for those of us trying to remember them and see if any of them still exist anywhere except as a historical document.

Now, what would have happened to this man in Leawood, Kansas if he had chosen to exercise his Second Amendment rights to protect his Fourth Amendment rights?

Even if he were holding a gun made and sold in Kansas and Eric Holder had not written a letter to the Governor, I think we all have a pretty good idea of what would have happened if he'd even attempted, in his own home, to stand on the Bill of Rights. This big gun control debate is nothing more than yet another way to divide the people over something that is already gone.

Also included is a photo from Watertown, MS, Friday, April 19, 2013.


What makes you think we still have the rights of the Second Amendment?

If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Tower of Babel?

This new and higher World Trade Center building truly bears a great many similarities to the tower described in Genesis 11. It is in the same city as the UN, Wall Street and it's been a source of "coming together" to disagree and accommodate in a politically correct manor. While the debate of a "Ground Zero" mosque has continued to be in the forefront, we've overlooked some amazing similarities to our very own tower of babel, right here in America.

First, "they" always throw something emotional and controversial out to start the big division, knowing full well already, the course that will be taken. This is done to keep "we the people" busy and not noticing what else is transpiring. It's the exact same principle as keeping a room full of kindergarteners playing "I spy" while the custodian looks for the snake that escaped from the fifth grade science class. Those kindergarteners are looking at and for everything in the room except a snake!

http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/02/us/new-york-world-trade-center-topping/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

Upon reading this link, a revelation truly hit me. While the religiously assured have all eyes on the UN and all blame on Obama, we've lost sight of the real power that prevails. Scripture doesn't say false religions are the root of all evil. And Scripture doesn't say false peace organizations are the root of all evil. Scripture says, "The love of money is the root of all evil." It's the New World Trade Center. How far is this from Wall Street or the UN? I've always had a sickening feeling that the UN was just a decoy or at the most, the enforcement arm of the real power. Maybe it's the fig tree leafing out, to which Messiah referred as a sign of the last generation before His return. I don't know, but we do know material riches is the one topic in which no one can find any discrepency throughout Messiah's teachings and Paul's writings . . . That in itself should be significant to New Testament believers. No matter how you interpret "grace" love of wealth is still the straight line between evil and loss of your soul.

Has the Prosperity Gospel caused us to miss this important fact? No doubt the UN is a part of bringing the world together in common issues, yet these issues are all divisive. Undoubtedly there is significant moves of ecumenicism between all religions, as well as greater animosity building. There is no question that the perpetual motion of the economy is keeping the world bustling, yet with all the talk of even distribution of wealth, it won't ever happen. Even distribution of wealth will not happen for two very clear and simple reasons. First, the very wealthy are not going to just share, and by very wealthy, I'm not just talking about the 1%. Even in the Middle Class, people do not want their wealth redistributed either, and those impoverished may not have money but often cling the tightest to their possessions. Although we all have different reasons and can easily see where someone else could and should, the bottom line is; people do cling to earthly things, like them, and simply do not want to share.

This will be the area of mankind that beckons the greatest control and monitoring. This New World Trace Center is by Scriptural definition a "high place," a tribute unto ourselves, a modern tower of babel. This monument unto confusion may very likely cast it's shadow on the UN and provide shelter for Wall Street.

And when Y'hshuwah saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of G-d!





http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Regulation/Nestle-and-Mead-Johnson-Nutrition-dismiss-call-to-remove-GMOs-from-US-infant-formula/?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BDaily&c=4BkPx3%2F8ZLCNtMPEbwk%2Fzg%3D%3D

The 4 Ws of the Boston Marathon Bombing

I vowed to get back to the 4 W's of good journalism and it seems it's been so long since that has been the focus, I'm actually going to simply categorize them to get established. In this article I will attempt to report the Who, What, When, and Where.
I will also qualify any editorial comments and identify hearsay. Since so much has circulated about the bombing at the Boston Marathon, I thought I'd simply reiterate what we actually do know.

There were three fatalities in the blast near the finish line of the annual Boston Marathon, April 15, 2013. A young boy Martin Richard, whose mother and sister were injured. Krystal Campbell died of her injuries very quickly according to the nurse that attended her and there was some time in identifying the third victim, Lingzi Lu.

There were many conflicting reports and since that time theories have flooded the internet. It was first reported that a Saudi National was sought, then taken into custody, then it was reported that the report was in error. It has been reported that the bombs were made from pressure canners, and just in from Fox News, it is reported that female DNA has been found on the bomb components. The wife of the deceased alleged bomber has been questioned. There were reported two alleged bombers, brothers, Tamerlan Tsarnaev,26 and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19. The 26 year old was reported to have been killed in an intense shoot out with police. That is the information we have.

Upon the getaway of the 19 year old, Martial law was instituted in Watertown, Massachusetts until he was discovered in a citizen's boat. The first reports were that he was too injured to speak, but has since been moved from the hospital to a detention facility. His Miranda rights were not read at the time of his arrest and I can find no information further. There are many interviews and pundits that believe he should be handled as an enemy combatant, rather than a detained citizen. I heard some pretty harrowing suggestions in clips as to the treatment recommendation for this young man. I attribute their angst to the fact he became a US Citizen only recently. This could set a shaky precedent, however; in denying a citizen due process.

The Police Commissioner, Ed Davis, has already stated in an interview that he wants the protection of drones at next year's Marathon. In light of the fact that most of us have had access to the major news sources, I've included two alternate sources.

http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-boston-bombing-web-of-lies/5332981

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/04/22/beck-breaks-exclusive-information-on-saudi-national-allegedly-connected-to-boston-bombings/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=story&utm_campaign=Share+Buttons

I am not endorsing any alternative news source at this time, with the exception of the Goshen Gazette; but there are three facts that must be included.
The man that is dead is the alleged bomber. If we omit the word alleged, he is presumed guilty until proven innocent . . . Miranda rights are already "not always necessary," in the cases of "public safety" and terrorism.
Martial law was declared in a town to find one 19 year old boy.

Sunsets, Rights, and Freedom

I've been led to believe that Benjamin Franklin has already addressed what we saw unfold in Boston just this week. Now some may say, it's too soon to address this, but I think waiting may be too late and may only cost us more. We are taught to never make major decisions in great fear, grief, or too soon following a traumatic event. Yet, here we are facing more potential loss of freedom in the hopes of a little security. There is an old saying that goes something like this, "There's only two things I have to do in this life, die and pay taxes." Well, there are two facts of life, that we need to consider besides those two things and taxes comes to mind as a reminder. Nearly every tax that's ever been presented has been presented to be temporary and to sunset. How many taxes have really gone away. Social Security began as voluntary! Now, back to my point. Taxes don't go away, rights can be lost, and freedoms given up, don't return . . .

This concern is obviously not just about Boston, but about the fact that someone labeled an "enemy combatant" is not necessarily going to have their Miranda rights read, and in regard to this case, the Miranda rights are not necessary if what is being said is "not intended to be used at trial." Well now, "intentions" will be very hard to determine down the road, since there is no thought police governing those doing the interrogating.

"They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/b/benjaminfr136955.html#G0zxQO3zY718GelR.99

I'm not accusing anyone in power at this time of having evil intent, but that's also not to say everyone is above question. Neither is it to say, this foundation of security will not fall into hands of mal-intent. Scripture says, at some point, pure evil will rule the globe for a time. So, as a believer, I believe every step that is taken for safety at the hand of humanity will move society one step closer to the acceptance of that which is prophesied.


What Boston looked like Friday?
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/04/19/177938697/what-it-looked-like-from-inside-bostons-lockdown

Perhaps this last picture, some will find to be illogically outrageous. I wish I did, but all things considered, I simply hope it's a wake-up call to all of us that we recognize and realize we will not be able to "outlaw" every implement used with evil intent. Evil intent is spiritual and cannot be managed by more legislation.


G-d gave us 613 laws and many people who claim to trust Him consider that bondage, so how does anyone figure more laws made by a government we're not sure we trust, will protect our freedom?

Is Washington D C Fiddling . . . ?

We are told that Nero fiddled while Rome burned and I just can't help but be reminded of this as we watch precious metals, stocks, and the value of a dollar all fall at once . . . Not that life is all about money, but Washington and Wall Street are. While the economy is shaky, we are still battling over gun ownership. Meanwhile there was a bombing at the Boston Marathon and the JFK library, and Logan Airport was closed. Not to mention the media's "style" of coverage regarding the most gruesome trial of infanticide ever seen in America.

How can we just go on, business as usual, accepting like sheep the directive to "keep moving, there's nothing to see here?" If this is just another day in the US of A and we shouldn't be unnerved by the news, then we are in worse shape than we know. Everything in the first paragraph should bother us on an individual event basis, much less when they are all occurring in 48 hours or less. Those of us asking questions and noticing some odd connections are of course, labeled Conspiracy Theorists. Details will be revealed in the soon to be released DSM V-R.

I don't know if I believe humans are actually hatching these plans together or simply selling their souls for power, to a single evil entity. If it's a matter of spiritual evil, that takes me out of the conspiracy theory group and squarely in the "religious nut" category. I'm actually pretty comfortable with that, I'm in some very good company. I thought of Messiah being called the "lord of evil," when I was called something hideous and somehow, things just made more sense to believe there is actually a spiritual problem. Spiritual rebellion and selfish servitude for power makes more sense than an entire group of humans willingly working together for any goal . . . I present Exhibit A: Congress.

I have some thoughts regarding all this mess in the news this week and I'm going to share them now. First, making more laws for decent law abiding citizens, is stupid, just stupid. I can't buy grain at the feed store without giving my name, etc. supposedly because of the USA Patriot Act and the potential for a terrorist to use grain and fertilizer to build an explosive, like Timothy McVeigh. I think the grain monitoring has a lot more to do with food control, but the powers that be packaged it with just the right timing. Here's my solution to this problem, rather than presuming we are all potential home-grown terrorists. Simply make bulk fertilizer something that is ordered and delivered. Just take it off the open market. The government has been telling farmers what to plant and where for over 1/2 century, they'll buy their fertilizer where the USDA tells them. The USDA is the expert at shoveling fertilizer! Now with this Boston Marathon bombing are we going to outlaw pressure cookers? Or just make homesteaders take the same test as those wanting to purchase a gun? Can't we see where this is going?

As for the economy. We need to stop worshiping money and material wealth. The people who are trying to save, will never have enough, and the people who aren't saving, are still going to find some way to get what they want, so we don't need paper to represent metal and we don't need Wall Street to let us play just enough to share the losses. We average people will never see big returns again, and we know it. The fat cats just let the middle class in long enough to raise the stakes . . . The same people who invested in Wall Street through the Reagan years are the same ones that bought "the new gold certificates." I recommend silver, it's easier to use in purchasing power, and it's still affordable right now to the average Joe. Besides, gold at $1500.00 an ounce, what's that going to buy if it comes down to it? How will you get change? There aren't that many $1500.00 purchases to be made on a regular basis. Silver on the other hand, will have some purchasing power at the local market and power company, if "they" let us have electricity when the time comes . . .
We are such a material society.

Now, I have the perfect solution regarding late term abortions. This Gosnell person obviously didn't care about the law, so he could have just as easily had a black market adoption operation. That's truly my thought here. It was different, and I know, there are people who argue life at conception, but it was different back in the 50's and 60's when D&C's took care of those late periods back when pregnancy tests wouldn't even show positive for 2 months. After having 6 years of a conservative Congress, those same 6 years a conservative White House, and through those same six years, 7 out of 9, Supreme Court Justices appointed by republican Presidents, clearly abortion isn't going away. It's time to realize, all politicians are using those little unborn babies to keep the population at odds.

As all these events are in the headlines simultaneously, are we really intellectually processing what we're seeing? Is the news being delivered for visceral effect? What is the reasonable response to all this?
Would we recognize the difference between Washington DC fiddling or our government, orchestrating . . . ?

Come now, and let us reason together, says YHWH: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow . . .

What's Next, Taxing Air?

Here I am so excited about guttering and rain barrels. I went on and on at my homesteading blog about the amazing measure of water in less than an inch of rain. Since I so love what a rain water rinse does to my hair, I even had the great idea to use rain water in my skin and hair care products at G-ma's Goatmilk Soap and Tribally Yours, distributed exclusively by the Land of Goshen, LLC. This blog is just going to be full of links, and speaking of links, upon reading a headline this morning, I was reminded of a little e-mail forward that goes around from time to time, regarding Noah building the ark in modern times with government codes and oversight.

Rather than copy and paste, I've included a link at the end of the blog. Now, getting back to the headline this morning. It seems the governor of Maryland has no problem claiming some pretty lofty authority over his "subjects." The state general assembly approved a stormwater fee for nine counties in Maryland. Translation: There is now a rain tax! It will be documented by satellite and the tax itself will be determined on a local level. The EPA is behind this to clean up the Chesapeake Bay area . . . I thought rain belonged to G-d . . . and for those who don't believe in G-d, does that mean it automatically defaults to the government?

The reality of this is really rather ominous though, in that with cloud seeding and chemtrails, etc. it would be completely possible to come up with tax liens beyond what could be reasonably paid . . . From what I understand, no property owner is exempt. Well, I'm guessing county courthouses won't have to worry. Since it's entirely possible for "man" to make it rain, it's entirely possible for "man" to make it excessive. I've heard a voice from heaven speak from a dark cloud the day after a tornado destroyed an Ozark town, that "weather is not to be in the hands of man."

While this information is, of course, presented to be a politically divisive issue, the bottom line remains the same for all taxpayers, regardless of party or affiliation. We must get beyond the political blame of parties and realize that all of our politicians are usurping authority that does not belong to humans and we will pay. Taxes will be the least of our problems. The rain doesn't belong to us, it is a gift from our Creator. If the government really does feel arrogantly entitled enough to tax rain, it's really not so satirical to suggest an "air tax" is next.

Rain Tax

Noah's Dilemma

They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto G-d the things that are G-d's.

The Death of Margaret Thatcher

I don't believe in speaking ill of the recently departed, so I am rather disgusted with some of the behavior in the UK in response to the death of Margaret Thatcher. I can't say that I agreed with many of her policies, but she was the Prime Minister of the UK and that really deserves, if not respect, at least decorum until after the funeral.

The fact that she and Ronald Reagan got along so well, does explain the reaction of many of the Britons, but at times like this, it's best to take the high road. I truly think America and Britain sort of lost their industry through the same era, and apparently very divisive leadership. As I was reading about her time as Prime Minister, I was reminded of the Reagan years here in America. I see many similarities. Those who are fans, practically worship, and those who were not, tend to loathe. I don't like to elevate politics and money to a religious level, and I think that is what I hold against the Reagan years, the most. Those were also the Margaret Thatcher years.

Perhaps the working class of the UK feels the same way the working class of America now feels after the passing of Ronald Reagan. Those of us who were not big fans do tend to cynically refer to Saint Ronald on occasion. I've seen comments that truly do reflect feelings of disgust where he was concerned, but it's been nearly nine years since his passing. I'm not disregarding the feelings of the people, but let's get her buried first.

For whatever reasons, I feel Britain sets the example for royal manners and regal behavior and to be honest, these comments sound like they came from America . . . I know the 80's were hard on most of us, but we can't let the leaders of that time cause us to become the people they considered us to be. We know, Ronald and Margaret considered themselves aristocrats, and we were merely commoners. So, it seems fitting to rise above their view of us. After all, their power, their fame, their wealth . . . they didn't take it with them.

What better way to demonstrate just how wrong they were?
. . . but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

Let's Talk Amendments and Possible Distractions

The UN has passed some sort of international arms regulation that of course is dividing our country in the interpretation of what this means to our Second Amendment. It seems our President supports it. I remember reading about his voting record as a state senator. "Present" or "abstain" was his decision a great deal of the time, or so it was reported as such. It seems now, he is willing to support and sign everything that makes a large percentage of Americans cringe.

Since he is supportive of this sweeping international legislation, I have my antennas up as to what is actually going on, behind this report. This is just too divisive of an issue to not have something brewing in the background. Every time our government gets into gear for our own good, I start watching what is not being reported. As we head toward the new world order of international laws and pseudo peace, it does indicate we are heading for captivity and that aims in direct opposition to our Bill of Rights.

I am not a gun owner, but I do advocate gun ownership and I believe in the Second Amendment, I just prefer archery. I would have to wonder with the topic of some of my books and blogs if purchasing a weapon would be possible for me, but in all likelihood, I'm not that famous! I'm not yet sure how many of us Jane Q. Public, nobodies, Big Brother is keeping track of at this time. My ability to purchase a weapon is not the point of this blog, and I don't believe weaponry is the real point of all these Executive Orders for our protection. Armed citizens, however; are more difficult to control.

I don't really think our government at this time has the manpower or would even make it a priority to gather up all the guns. Further more, in reading blogs and articles, I don't think the trust level of our government, for the average American, is strong enough to hand over all the guns, but blogs and articles are talk, and from what I've seen most folks don't actually back their words with actions, so the outcome remains to be seen. What we don't realize is a huge reality that I have already come across, regarding the second amendment. Several years back when I first launched this homesteading plan, my husband at that time determined we needed a gun to kill our own meat. We'd raise beef or chevon, he'd shoot it and I could process it. For him to participate, we needed a proper weapon, which was apparently some sort of hand gun. A hunting rifle wouldn't do, and a shotgun wouldn't do, so we went to Pawn Shops. Oh my, what an assortment of hand guns we were shown. Now are you ready for this?

Hand guns were available for purchase by the dozens, however; the bullets were on back order . . . and had been for several months. See how easy that is. The Powers that Be don't have to come knocking on your door for your gun, they can just control the bullet sales. So the reality is, we've had backdoor gun control for several years now, with the potential for it to expand at any moment with no Executive Orders. The Second Amendment needs no altercation or overriding in regard to possession of firearms, if ammunition is unavailable.

The other thing I've noticed is the reality that while so many are concerned about their second amendment rights, our first amendment rights are under constant threat and nobody seems to care. I want free speech. I don't want Congress to make any laws regarding my religion, or the removal of my religion in our society. I value the first amendment and it's been under siege since it's been legal to shoot people who say the wrong thing at the air port. It's been under siege since Fred Phelps and company started spewing their ridiculous hatred. It's been under siege since George W. Bush loosely defined "enemy combatant" and the present administration has let us know in no uncertain terms, he doesn't want to hear what we have to say, and his secret service has the power to shut you up!

With the "marriage equality" issue, free speech has been labeled hate speech, not to mention all sorts of regulation against religious symbols and practices. There are virtually no sources of true freedom of the press, and protesting requires permits and a cage to stand in. Meanwhile Second Amendment advocates are clearly being associated with some interesting mental health terms, while the 4th amendment no longer even stands, lets talk eminent domain, Judge Souter, and the Fifth Amendment. Now as for the definition of "enemy combatants" and drone coverage, the Sixth Amendment is in question, while the 14th amendment is being used as the foundation for everything but rights for those who have no advocate.

The government already has power over the ammunition, while the gun owners are taunted with the perceived threat against the Second Amendment, four other amendments are nearly history . . . We must realize Who and what truly protects our freedom.

You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free . . . If therefore the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. New Testament

Dear Mr. Netanyahu

I pray you have a blessed Passover Season.

I've learned a lot in watching you, as you continue to show great diplomacy to open rudeness. I would like to share a few things with you and you probably already know this, so perhaps it's only to confirm that where you are standing, is obviously between a rock and a hard place. As you attempt to show respect for the G-d of Israel, and kindness to "your neighbor as yourself," your style and effort is heads and shoulders above those with whom you must deal. Sir, first let it be said, your neighbors are not so friendly and even though they squabble amongst themselves, when it comes down to it, the one thing they can agree upon is that you are the "Johnny come lately, and the outsider," and must continue to accommodate them. Attempting to negotiate with them while they are refusing to reconcile between their groups will only result in their unification against you, when the dust all settles. It's kind of like being caught between a squabbling couple and attempting to be a voice of reason. When they make up, the one who offered logic, is the bad guy.

Giving honorary titles and awards of nobility to visiting dignitaries, especially American ones, may seem to be proper, but our current administration expects the best everywhere he goes. To be honest, that is sort of an American tradition. I have to admit, I also enjoyed staying in the King David Hotel when I was in Jerusalem, yet I digress . . .

These titles and awards are basically viewed as trophies for the recipient, and hope of an ally on the part of Israel. The entire world knows Israel is surrounded by less than friends, and also knows most of the powerful countries in the world are funding your enemies while shaking your hand. As an American, I can tell you, we are not the most trustworthy lot. This medal for a man who had never set foot in Israel until now, did seem a bit superficial and just expected, but it also demonstrated the discernment of Israel to know what is expected and act accordingly.

I'm not sure that the kindness to a foreigner who openly disrespects you to the young people will return a good reward for you. To have a foreigner come and persuade the youth to different values is like having your own home overrun with visitors who simply don't care about what is important to you. I'd like to believe the young people will not be pursuaded, but it seems most young people have a streak of rebellion that is just looking for a chance to rally. I'm not saying it's just this generation, because I believe every generation has within it, the desire and determination to change things, but as our societies have deteriorated, the direction to be different continues to erode and the standard is dropped.

As an American, I've been very embarrassed by the way the American President has treated you, at every meeting. Politics and diplomacy really aren't entities separate from who we are as humans. Just as I compared you being caught between Hamas and the leader of the West Bank to trying to counsel a couple, politics is just personal on a greater level. Your personal integrity shines in your diplomacy, unfortunately the American President's personal integrity is also displayed to represent the entire country. That embarrasses me.

We just endured a campaign of more empty promises based upon the blame of the previous administration. The fact that you are not blaming Sharon and Olmert, places you in a clearly different class, than the man to which you are called to be hospitable. He first promised us hope and change, and in four years when he couldn't deliver that, promised us "Forward." Forward becomes an all together different word and meaning when the "o" and "r" are exchanged. Forward is a direction. Froward is a reflection of character, which I find to be much more contextual, in his case. I don't think you are so foolish as the Americans who bought into it, but your young people are used to leaders with some integrity, so when they like what someone says, they just assume they have the integrity of the leaders they are used to.

Now, on a personal note, I believe you would negotiate in much more power if you were operating by the government The G-d of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob established Israel to be, rather than the mandate of the UN or even the promises of the US. If G-d has not brought you there, no amount of negotiation and treaties will give you security and if G-d has brought you there, doing it His way assures stability. I can tell you from personal experience, outside of G-d's plan, there will be no end to the demand of concessions.

I know you are wise enough to keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but the G-d of Israel has even better security in mind.

From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast . . . This book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for Y-H-W-H thy G-d is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Such an Interesting "Coincidence"

With so much in the news that has captured the world's attention, I thought I'd make mention of a lesser known fact that I believe will also be of global significance, at some point. Bank of America, you know, the second largest bank in America and one of the "Too Big to Fail" banks has "sold" some of it's smaller branches. Not only was Bank of America bailed out in late 2008, it bought Countrywide Financial in February of 2009, all in less than four months. In June of 2012 Bank of America informed the Federal Reserve it could sell off some branches for liquidity. Follow me as I give a little prophetic background before tying it all up!

I tend to not really disagree, but rather, I have a different perspective than many folks who are watching current events from a prophetic perspective. Of course, there has been conjecture for years, as to who would be the single human to control the New World Order, a.k.a. Anti-Christ. Most students of eschatology are looking at religious leaders, like the recent events at the Vatican, as well as political figures and world dignitaries. I have a much more practical perspective of just who could garner the worship of most people. Basically in a global society yearning for instant gratification, an entity that makes you feel good about yourself, offers free wi-fi, and makes fast food, smart technology, and digital entertainment available by EBT is going to be quite popular, even perhaps; beloved . . .

I'm not saying everyone with extreme power and money doesn't have some place in the end time events, at the very least, they are place holders, but I just don't believe the adversary is creative. I think he's going to be using the same methods he used in the Garden of Eden and with Y'hshuwah in the wilderness. So, we are basically looking at the "promise" for food, to know good and evil, and have full access when you want it. There's no indication there will be any favorites in this final regime, just one group of unfavored folks. Yet I digress . . .

Politicians are not really powerful, they are only puppets controlled by people more rich and powerful than themselves. Religious leaders, for the most part, are controlled by the money as well. I do not know who the evil leaders will be, and the names I am using as an example are not indicative of prophetic claim, or even my opinion, regarding the leaders of the New World Order. They are just examples. For instance, there is one post after another in social media as to how purely evil President Obama is. I don't agree with most of his politics, but I don't know that I could say he is the embodiment of evil. What I do know is, he has a lot of backers to keep happy, so he's clearly not independent. Now, consider on the other hand, someone like Bill Gates, who basically had the technical power to stand his ground even against the United States government in regard to the accusation of a monopoly. Bill Gates built an empire, and a charity, and he has a lot more individual power than any politician could ever dream of. Oprah Winfrey is another example of a "self-made" mogul and she had enough power to get President Obama his job. I think we all know, when Oprah chose to promote race over gender in her "first ever" Presidential endorsement, between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, she had the power to determine whether America would have it's first black president or it's first woman president.

Since most take overs begin with a rather popular notion, I'm guessing this will be no different, and the power house will rise out of rather "humble" obscure beginnings, which did cause me to give our current President some consideration in the beginning, but they all get a little consideration in the beginning . . .

Now, I've said all that to say this. While we were watching Vatican city for the smoke to clear, and everyone watched for a new moon and ripe barley, not to mention trying to figure out how causing a new crisis to ignore the old crisis makes sequestration a good idea, we have some slight of hand going on just a little closer to the control of us every day folk. The Pope's resignation took place and Catholics continued being Catholic without an official in the Vatican. Other than complaining about how much money is being spent or borrowed, life in these United States goes on whether Congress is in session or the Obamas are another vacation. Meanwhile, however; back at the ranch . . .

Bank of America has sold 24 bank branches to Old National Bank, many of which are in Michigan, so I'm guessing their mortgage loan value is a contributing factor in that decision, but I discovered some other information that seems to indicate a new up and comer in the banking industry. Bank of America is selling 29 bank branches to Arvest Bank in four states . . . Arvest is a fairly new kid on the block. The CEO of Arvest bank is none other than Jim Walton, son of the late Sam Walton. Arvest bank is the bank that Wal-Mart wan't allowed to have as part of it's corporation . . . Does Wal-Mart fit the description I gave above, as a provider of everything everyone wants? I think what scares me the most about the possibility is the separation people have already established within themselves regarding such an entity.

New super-centers are international and growing. A new super-mart always gets some sort of tax break to come to the town, eliminates the Mom & Pop independents, then offers minimum wage to become one of the largest employers in the area, takes back some of the employees pay as stock investment in the company, calling them associates, and all that is fair in the game of capitalism and the love of money. What really concerns me are the number of people who already say they "hate the super-mart and only go when they have to." What are we willing to do, even though we say we are against it and hate it? We really need to be deciding just where we draw the line in these last days. We cannot draw it between our desires and our soul.

And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark . . . the Revelation

Taking Care of Business

I'm in an unusual place in life and I think I'm about ready to enjoy another aspect of simplicity, which I'll cover on one of my other blogs, but it involves the Postal Service, or I should say the lack of service and the apparent inability or unwillingness to do anything about it. It seems when they receive a complaint at the counter, they already have it in writing, that they can do what they want. I mean there are nit-picky rules even pertaining to the closing of the mailbox. Did you know, that if the mail person makes an attempt to close the door, but it comes open, it is in writing, there is no obligation to try to close the mail box again. I find this particularly annoying, yet humorous in a postal sort of way. My neighbors are kind enough to close the mailbox door when they go by and so far, every one of them has reported it closing first time, every time it's open, which is right after mail delivery. One time was particularly humorous in that there was actually a note in the mail box from the mail carrier explaining that she didn't have time to re-close the door . . . Perhaps she was too busy writing the note . . .
So, as the USPS puts themselves out of business, I can't really say I have much pity for them. Perhaps if they had been taking care of business instead of micro-managing what they don't have to do, they wouldn't be failing financially. Considering the customer service I had been receiving, I'd just as soon get prompts on the phone. At least with prompts, I get a feeling of getting somewhere . . .
Interestingly, there is a person at the Post Office who actually answered the phone and when they found out there were pictures of crumpled wet mail and an open mailbox with mail in it, she wanted to see the pictures. She was very courteous, very nice and seemingly very helpful, but . . . there is obviously policy out of her control.
She gave her email and I assured her, I would send the pictures to her, before posting this blog. I tried.

Are you ready for what I found in my Inbox this morning?

I've changed a couple of the details of the addresses but you get the picture . . .

This is the mail system at host samtca.zzz.srvs.usps.gov.

I'm sorry to have to inform you that your message could not
be delivered to one or more recipients. It's attached below.

For further assistance, please send mail to

If you do so, please include this problem report. You can
delete your own text from the attached returned message.

The mail system

: message size 16499108 exceeds size limit 10485760

So, it would seem, the USPS isn't so easy to reach even by e-mail and snail mail, well . . . There is a big difference between program capability and a willingness to work toward a solution. KUDOS to the lady who answers the phone and has to listen to the complaints of others who will not work toward problem resolution.

I sent back another response and told this individual I'd simply send her the blog link so they can see the pictures. She graciously responded favorably and informed me she will open the link upon receipt. So with that, I feel I can go ahead and post this blog.


Back to the original point. I realize with a life of simplicity, yet technology in reach, I can find out the amount of my bill for electricity and I pay it in person anyway, and as for my online business, that goes through PayPal, so basically the USPS has caused and proven their own obsoletion.
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might . . . Holy Scripture

Which Came First

Which came first, elitist politicians, or the policy to favor elitism? America has always had it's hierarchy and aristocracy; although we dare not actually speak that. We simply make the "them and us references," with phrases like the other side of "the tracks" or the other side of "the aisle," or she married well or so-and-so married beneath them. We have it in all aspects of our society. Highly educated individuals are certainly held in social esteem over the drop-outs. The old saying, "money talks," continues be repeated, because money continues to talk . . .
And that's my point today. We assoicate elitism with dollars.

I probably shouldn't be posting this, but it's so easy to blame Washington for unfairness and waste, and although Washington DC certainly appears to lead the way in waste, I think the reality is we are a nation of elitists just wanting to feel opulent! The young adult generation has done it with instant gratification and a lifestyle of indebted "all out" spending, the Baby Boomers have done it with social security disability, the silent generation has done it with pensions and buy out social security and the greatest generation is doing it with inheritances, social security and nursing home power. We can't blame Washington DC, completely. The elected officials are just trying to keep enough of every generation happy to maintain their own job security.

I find waste reprehensible and I think the love of money in this country will truly receive the judgment the Bible warned about. I hear the young adult generation talk about how much all the older generations are wasting, but I've seen the younger one burn through cash at a rate that spins my head. I've also found myself helping the younger generation, only to have them return to the exact situation in which they solicited the rescue, and the "helpful" parents are the villains. I'm good with that standing. Being unpopular will only keep me from being included in the next bail out with no results . . .

My generation, the Baby Boomers, are without a doubt a sorry lot. We were the first generation to be raised on antibiotics, vaccinations, and television. Clearly a case of garbage in, garbage out. Granted, we are aging out of the work force, now, but I don't know very many boomers that didn't opt out early on some disability claim, anyway. I'm not saying all, but I do know several boomers that claim "retirement" in their 40's while also claiming 40 year careers. Modern math, I guess . . . I see why the rest of the country is sick of us. I changed careers every 3 years in my twenties and early thirties, until I finally came into the career G-d had planned for me. Of course, with MS, it was recommended that I follow the path of my generation and gouge the system for disability, but I took the road less traveled and I'm so glad I did. I've been in ministry and an author, for nearly 20 years and now at 55, I've been homesteading for nearly a decade. I don't even see retirement in my future and certainly don't feel disabled.

The silent generation is an enigma to me. They have their money and their stuff and now they are all over 70 and still nobody else does it right! Perfect! My mom has told me several times what she plans to leave whom and all I can say is, I hope the will gets read before I'm stuck cleaning the basement, garage, and attic. If I have my way, which I won't, it's not allowed, ever; to be fair . . . my sister and my daughter can have it all for themselves and their kids. Hopefully my grandkids would come out okay on that deal and that would be fine all the way around.

This greatest generation, what's left of them, is really a fascinating group. They have the inheritances of what is virtually the last of the family farms. They went to town as young women and made sure their kids went to town, so the land was ready for sale at the first opportunity. Now they have their social security, their inheritances, their medicare to make appointments to call their social life, and none of their kids can do it right either, because let's face the facts. Every generation raised the next one, and none of us want to be stuck in the mercy and care of what we produced! Now back to the greatest generation.

I'm privy to two of them in long term care, and they both have enough money to live in their chosen care facility, past the age of 100. Got the picture? So, one of them has decided she needs a special diet, suited to her "healthy, organic" choices. Her daughters want to make sure her choices will be freshly prepared every day! Really? Take your mom home and fix it then. Clearly you have the time, as none of you have jobs to go to either! The other situation was interesting in that this woman has chosen her own comforts and one of those is a kitchenette in her accommodations. Well she fell asleep warming her little rice heat bag, you know the alternative pain reliever . . . Fire alarm, evacuation preparation, smoke damage, you get the picture. The solution after all that. With a wink from the administrator, and a slight of hands on the report, she gets a new microwave and everyone else at the facility loses their little rice bags . . . Now all these people who probably don't have as much ready cash, have lost their freedom and choice, but she gets her microwave and the facility will probably get more medicare funding for pain meds, now that rice bags have been confiscated for the greater good and safety.

We can keep blaming Washington DC for all the waste and debt, but in reality, who is going to give up what they feel entitled to? I mean, aren't we all entitled to be accommodated by what someone else should have to provide?

Therefore shall the land mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish . . . a Prophet of Holy Scripture

I Know They Say, You Can't Fix Stupid, But You Can Publicize It

>>>>LOUISIANA -- A charity group called "Hunters for the Hungry" donated 1,600 pounds of freshly processed deer meat, called venison, to local homeless shelters across the state.

But no good deed goes unpunished.

The state of Louisiana refuses to allow homeless people to eat venison under any circumstances. Not only that, but the Health Department officials would not even allow the hunters to take their meat back and gladly use it for something else.

Instead, government workers ripped open every package of meat, put them into dumpsters, and poured bleach on all the meat. They claimed that the bleach bath would prevent animals from getting sick from eating the meat.<<<<< http://houston.cbslocal.com/2013/02/25/louisiana-forces-homeless-shelter-to-destroy-8000-worth-of-deer-meat/


http://radio.foxnews.com/toddstarnes/top-stories/health-dept-homeless-cant-eat-deer-meat.html


Dear Gov. Jindal,
Are you aware of the atrocity that has taken place in your state? You are aware that your state has been asking for assistance and complaining about not enough help and handouts since 2005, right!
Hunters for the Hungry is a 20 year old group of hunters who pay for their hunting licenses, pay for deer tags, and in many cases, pay for the processing of the meat, they donate. It is stated on the home page, if the entire deer is donated, the hunter is not charged for processing, but portions of packaged meat are paid for before donating, and left at the locker plant. This is how you allow them to be thanked?
http://www.h4hungry.org/

If Messiah, himself, were handing out loaves and fishes to feed a multitude and one person didn't like the fish, would you waste the dinner for thousands? I am truly outraged that you are not running your state with any more efficiency than this. I believe I've heard your name dropped in reference to a National level. Well, I'm going to do what I can right now, to make sure you gain national and even international acclaim.

I understand there is now a claim that homeless shelters do not allow the homeless to eat deer meat, in your state. If that is the policy, then why was it accepted? Since it has been determined that the shelter will not keep the meat, what about animal shelters? Don't you have hungry abandoned pets in shelters? These places are always soliciting donations. Why not have a big city cook up for the animal shelter if the people aren't allowed to eat it.

Since it was government workers destroying the meat, why couldn't your state government network and use it elsewhere, since 2005, we've all become aware of "the fact" that Louisiana is ever so self sufficient . . .

Have you read that the wolf population in the great northwest is hungry? There is talk by the global warming warners that Polar bears are starving in the Tundra. I know for a fact, there is a huge large wildlife sanctuary in Arkansas just between your state and mine that are always asking for donations for hungry critters, large ones. You could have called Turpentine Creek Refuge. I'm guessing someone would have volunteered to come get the meat.

Paying government workers to unwrap 1600 pounds of meat to pour bleach on it is outrageous and in that same time and for probably less expense, someone could have driven it to an animal shelter. Or even more outlandish . . . offer it to the public and let people think for themselves as to whether they want it or not. You could have at the very least offered it back to the hunters. How disrespectful to these people who donated. I'm disgusted! You're throwing away food, no it's worse than wasting, you are contaminating food intentionally, so even animals can't have it and yet the state of Louisiana is willing to receive federal aid and charity donations.

In this country, we have empty foreclosed houses and homeless people. What's wrong with this picture, besides STUPID in high places? We have food contaminated while people go hungry. What's wrong with this picture, besides STUPID in high places? We have representatives that cannot agree on anything except their own raises and threaten to financially cut off those they represent every time they disagree. What's wrong with this picture, besides a lot of STUPID in one high place?

There is much food in the ploughed land of the poor; but it is taken away by wrongdoing. Proverbs 13:23 Basic English Version

There Really Are Four Kinds of Everybody

I've become very aware of how many places Messiah's parable about four kinds of soil, and Torah's teaching of four kinds of men applies in just about every situation involving more than three people. Oh, now, G-d's Word is always true, but sometimes it takes a few more than four to see all four kinds, because good soil and wisdom are rare. For example, I've recently become aware of a fourth kind of organizer.

We are all now familiar with a community organizer for a President. I, for one, am not impressed. He seems to be able to organize the price the rest of us will pay and the hard work required to supposedly reach some elusive goal he envisions, but the reality is, he's a typical organizer that knew the right people or sold his soul at the opportune moment. He is the embodiment of what I've always experienced with organizers and micro-managers. He gets up late, he has plenty of advice and insight about what "should have been done before he arrived" and he has words, lots and lots of words. He is very well spoken, but then organizers are. That's how they hand off responsibility and blame, while I didn't realize until recently just how much time, wordy organizers take from others. If only they'd organize their own thoughts and schedule, maybe their explanations wouldn't take so long and they wouldn't need to keep anyone waiting . . . But I think that has something to do with their opinion of their own importance.

Upon observing our leader, I've noticed many similar traits amongst organizers, but there are differences as well, which brings me to our four kinds of organizers.

Our President is a community organizer, so that means he has some get-up and go, and can work large crowds. Even though he'll stroll in and out on his own schedule and check his blackberry in the middle of someone's conversation with him, he's on top of his game and he knows exactly how to make people feel genuinely cared about and bring them ownership. Of course they have ownership, they are the ones doing the work, but they are happy to do it, for the greater good of the cause . . . and for the "personal" relationship with the "community organizer." A good community organizer makes everyone feel that they have a special bond with the leader for whom they are donating time and basically giving up their life to see succeed. Does anyone really think the hundreds of volunteers who considered it their personal privilege to work for this man, even question the difference in the lifestyle in which they struggle and the one they helped him to attain?

Now I happen to have been "graced" by the acquaintance of other organizers as well. They also share the President's value of timeliness. Their time is important and those of us who get up early and get something done, well they'll get up in enough time to question it, change it, or at least offer their ideas and advice. Those of us who have something actually going on in life besides organizing others often find ourselves waiting upon the one who has organized the event, the meeting, or the conversation . . .

What I love about personally knowing other types of organizers, is being able to mull over the observations I make while they take a text, answer the phone in the middle of the most insane things to interrupt or simply answer the call waiting line and then come back to tell me they forgot about me. These other organizers are just as awesome, in their own minds, as the community organizer we now call our President. These other organizers have advice regarding religious and business choices of others, while not actually accomplishing any endeavors, themselves. I think that's why so many people have difficulty believing in the week of creation. They can't imagine a world without community, religious, or business organizers. It probably would have taken G-d a lot longer than six days, if He'd created an organizer early on, but if there is any validity to the theory of evolution, it is the three kinds of organizers who have evolved, and continue to do so.

I think Lot was the father of all organizers. He tagged along with a man with a vision, Abraham, then chose the best land for himself. He organized two wedding parties for his daughters, but still ended up leaving town with them in tow, still virgins. Even after YHWH G-d rescued him from the judgment pouring down on Sodom and Gomorrah, it was Lot who suggested to the Creator of the universe, a different destination, than where G-d had told him to go . . . Lot was clearly an organizer with chutzpah.

While G-d changes not, most organizers have to continuously change and raise the bar and move the hoop to organize those with a real vision and love for progress. Most organizers realize if they ever got up early and listened, they might have to actually pitch and work also!

I am not an organizer, but I know where my stuff is, by the color of the basket or tub. My filing cabinet is color coded, and when it comes to my computer, my music and videos are organized because the thought of sorting them is overwhelming and I don't just automatically recognize those by the date. Now my writing and my pictures, I don't organize because I recognize them, they are just a a part of me. Since I'm not an organizer, and they are a part of me they are not organized . . . until they are needed for publication. Which brings me to the fourth kind of organizer.

Now, I have met the fourth kind of organizer, and oh my what a blessing! After knowing delegating organizers and the deferring organizers, as well as seeing the dictating organizers, it's so nice to finally meet a diligent organizer! I knew there had to be one that actually organized by example. She lives what she talks and it's refreshing! I have started a number of projects with "organizers" trampling through, and frankly it's work to work around them, but not this gal . . . She knows how to organize and she actually organizes! She organizes papers, she organizes people, she organizes computer files, but the difference is she organizes herself and gets things done! As I've observed, there are really four kinds of everybody and now I'm blessed to be the editor of an Internet Periodical with an executive administrator that is a true organizer the way G-d designed organizers to be! James tells us to not just be hearers but doers. Not to add to or take away from G-d's Holy Word, but I think Scripture has plenty of passages that indicate we're not just supposed to be talkers, but doers, also.

When Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes he didn't say, 'Whatsoever your hand finds to do, tell somebody else how to do it,' he penned, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might . . ."

American Politics - Loss Leaders

A loss leader used to be an advertised special that was actually priced below the wholesale cost, but got people in the door to shop, and hopefully purchase unadvertised items as well. It was the cost of volume shopping, which is not unlike American politics, now. I'm not sure campaign managers operate much differently than sales managers.

We tend to want to see politicians as so different from ourselves and our circle of influence, but amazingly, they are not. They break promises, they divide people, they tell things they will weasel out of, and they judge, oh do they judge, while judging the "other side" and those accusing them of being judgmental! They are people who are willing to sell themselves, their values, and their future to the highest bidder. So, why we'd think for a moment, they wouldn't sell us out as well, is a reflection of our own lack of awareness or delusive self-importance.

Actually, politicians appear to be the embodiment of the values of the voting majority of America. As I listen to the electorate speak of their "chosen" candidate and the way they speak of the opponent; I have no problem not participating in American politics. The people who truly believe they are being represented by their candidate, if elected, have caused me to seriously doubt the values of their candidate. The adamant opposition in American politics has taken on a life all of it's own. We, as a nation, are more divided and oppositional than at the time of the Civil War. The modern difference is not in our civility, but the fact that we are too lazy to actually organize and physically fight over our differences . . . thank G-d. There truly are spirits of opposition over this entire nation, and slovenliness, creating an interesting "balance" in our nation.

Politically, we don't really remember what was important and what we believed in, it's simply enough to know what we don't believe! We diligently monitor and vehemently spew accusations of that, which we are against. We know who we oppose. I shouldn't have made this just about politics. Religion is the same way. I remember realizing, I can read the Bible, people in general conversation will say "thank G-d," the President of the USA has said, "God bless America" just about since I can remember, Congress always had a prayer breakfast before convening a new session, but only at church did I learn about the devil! This focus on the opposition does truly seem spiritual . . . Everybody knows what they don't like, what they don't want, what they don't believe in, and are willing to talk at length about it; but finding someone who truly pursues a vision is rare, very rare.

One of the reasons we don't actually have leadership anymore, is because we don't have leaders involved. We have professional politicians, organizers, wordsmiths, and orators who convey to people what they want to hear, make promises that will get themselves into positions of power, then . . . things begin to fall apart. Things fall apart because they are not visionaries or leaders, but have attained the responsibility of leading, not just power. The so-called elected leaders are followers of the crowd who want special treatment and special attention. That's how we've now come to have career politicians. It's simply narcisism repackaged and relabeled, which brings us back to politicians being the embodiment of our society. We are a me-first, self-serving culture and narcissists looking for popularity and power, are the closest we're going to get to actual leadership.

For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good . . . writings of the Apostle Paul

USPS

I've had my eye on the US Postal Service for some time now, because, to be honest, I just smelled a rat at the inception of the "forever stamp." I made the comment to someone, "How long will it be, before we just don't even know what stamps are costing?" As for myself, I just happened to find out a few days before, inadvertently, that mail went up again in January. I thought there was a specific time or month that increases took place, but that may have just been too many years ago to actually verify. Whatever I think I remember, I'm sure has been revised by now, anyway. Revisionism is a topic for another day, I'll get back to the subject at hand.
If I were given to conspiracy theories, I'd also begin thinking that card makers are "cahootzing" with the USPS because every card I've tried to send as of late requires extra postage. I made that comment at the Post Office, made a few more observations with some of the other folks standing around, then remembered it might be unwise to irritate a Postal employee.
Now, here is my actual point. I am thrilled and have been praying for some time now that the Postal Service would stop Saturday mail delivery, and they have determined it would help their budget to do just that. I've known for a long time, money earned or spent on Sabbath does not help anything, actually, just like the Post Office has determined, working on Sabbath costs money and hinders the budget. I can't explain it, but it's true. G-d said to set the Sabbath apart to rest and be holy, and all I can say is if He says it, we should do it. If He says, don't work, and He has, then any amount of effort we expend will be futile. He said not to work on Sabbath. I'm just wondering if the budget of the Post Office will improve by this decision. I know a great deal of the USPS expense is the health care of their retirees. Perhaps this next generation of retirees will have better health for not working on Sabbath.
I know, and this is going to sound a bit quirky, but that's who I am. I never send any mail on Friday, so I won't cause someone else to work on Sabbath. I've even wondered about Thursday, which is why I started praying about it; and now the problem is solved.
I still don't have an answer to my first question about "forever stamps" which was also to a Postal employee, the very first time I purchased one. He assured me, that stamp would be good "forever" no matter how many postal increases took place. My question was a bit more "down to earth." I asked him if he was sure the USPS would be in business forever . . .
Working Sabbath is a very good way to get bad results.
Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the Sabbath day, neither do ye any work, but hallow ye the Sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers. Prophet of Holy Scripture