What Happened to the Unions?

We all remember when President Reagan fired and replaced the air traffic control union, when they went on strike. And I am sure there are some interesting statistics regarding air transportation safety since that decision, but that is just one of many examples of the loss of the power of the unions. Of course, now that air transportation is primarily in the hands of the government, I guess the union discussion is a moot point. You know, Jimmy Hoffa wasn't the only problem for the Teamsters. So much highway regulation and the price of gasoline has certainly weakened the most powerful organization ever known in the American work force. And remember when the baseball players went on strike? Baseball has never fully recovered, but there is an interesting fact that relates to both union workers and Hispanic immigrants, even in baseball. Now that our President has explained that workers from Mexico are here finding and working at jobs that Americans apparently won't do. Now I get it!!! The labor force from Mexico has many positive points when compared to the union. To a Republican President, that is. Please let me clarify . . . I am not refering to Mexican Americans, I am speaking of illegal immigrants in which the present administration simply chooses to turn a blind eye. The immigrant work force does work for less, thus saving corporate funds. The immigrant work force doesn't demand health benefits, ever notice the signs in the hospital reception area, guaranteeing free health care at the costliest level possible? Why, the immigrant worker doesn't even have to remain a member of the work force very long, if they figure out the American housing and grant system. But once, established the real preference for the illegal work force over union labor is: the union was ALWAYS democrat, while the immigrant workers tend to be conservative in their politics. What an interesting way to finally be able to manage the voice of the "grateful" work force, as well as company and corporate . . .
. . . we will be in bondage to Pharaoh

America's Definition of Dangerous Criminal?

It's official, the "run away bride" will be charged. The grand jury has made a decision. But in the same month, a judge threw out and called a mistrial on the soldier - England, in the Abu Ghraib torture scandal. Is any one else embarrassed by this or at least confused? A woman that either felt the pressure of a gala event or went to Vegas for a last hurrah is now possibly facing 5+ years prison because an officer "listened in" on a phone conversation and taped it [with or without her knowledge?] between boyfriend and girlfriend that obviously had some issues.
A woman is now dismissed from facing a possible 2-11 years, and they were saying not more than 2, because her boyfriend told her she was participating in a training film . . . Does anyone else find this reprehensible and illogical, or has everyone been just been dumbed down and severely numbed?
I am serious, I am casting the gauntlet. Anyone who does not find absolute illogic and a deplorable definition of right and wrong between these two cases of American justice is an absolute idiot.
Let me explain this succinctly.
A woman in the military willingly had her picture taken in "compromising" circumstances while questionable treatment of prisoners was captured on film. Her boyfriend testified in her trial, after she pled guilty, and the judge declared a mistrial.
Another woman, getting ready for an indulgently elaborate wedding decided to skip out and call her boyfriend with a lame story three days later is now facing felony charges because a town decided to look for her long before a missing person's report could be filed and without doing any real investigating, like at the bus station or cab company, yet her fiance' made the observation of potential cold feet the first day. Well, here in the heart of the definition of earthly justice, she is going to trial.
Oh, and let's consider one more issue between the women.
The notoriety at Abu Ghraib caused international fall out, complications, and uprisings, and flat out fueled the hatred for acts of insurgency.
The 'run away bride' caused embarrassment and a town full of concerned people and nosey authorities to spend a little extra time and money.
If this is how America is going to define crime, no wonder the leaders are having to release the sex offenders with only a month's worth of viagra, to make room for the real dangerous elements of society, like unmotivated potheads.
Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil . . . Isaiah 5:20a. Holy Bible

I Want My Money Back!

Well, I suppose everyone has now heard that our government has made yet another "questionable error." It has been discovered that medicare and medicaid funding has provided Viagra for sex offenders. Now, you might say, "I can't believe that." And to that I would reply, "Why not? This is America, are you new?" We fund more questionable causes than we can count and we downright contribute to ongoing problems every day. If the American federal government didn't provide grant money to enable, do you realize how many more people would be in the unemployment line?
But that isn't our topic today. . . Giving Viagra to sex offenders, when the diabetics and 40+ alcoholics have to pay for it! . . . Where is the justice? Where is the fairness? I read Hugh Hefner is a great proponent of Viagra, but he pays for it. And it's interesting that the religious right continues to find someone else to blame, while supporting leaders that allow this sort of atrocity. Giving, and I do mean giving, Viagra to a sex offender is like handing a pyromaniac a book of matches. What are "the powers" thinking? What is their excuse? . . . as if there was one.
As a tax payer, I want my money back. This misappropriation of funds should not be funded by the hard working Americans that pay taxes. This error needs to be accounted for. How much damage has actually been done? Not only have "the powers that be" wasted, no worse than wasted, our money; how many more victims have been victimized because our government provided the "empowerment" to cause victimization? As a person that does not utilize medication at all, nor do I condone the use there of, I am particularly offended. I have watched for years, as my tax dollars get pumped into medical research, and I have no say. I have also watched for years as doctors are held unaccountable, and now our politicians have capped medical malpractice suits, so they can continue to be held unaccountable. And now, doctors have prescribed and politicians have authorized VIAGRA and given me the bill.
You know, if the average businessmen in America did business like doctors and politicians, they would be out of business.
every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

I See London, I See France . . .

And Homeland Security can see through underpants!

After seeing and reading about Saddam Hussein in the same week as I got to hear about our latest security proposal, I gotta tell ya . . . It sounds like our leaders can justify things that would mortify Hugh Hefner! As a woman that has already gotten her share of security groping with the "hands on" method, I have to admit, I'll be letting my passport go dormant, soon.
Now here's an idea . . . Maybe they could have hospital personnel run air port security and just take care of an annual physical before you travel. And you know, they could combine the vaccinations with the veri-chip and mamogram with air security and TV church on Walmart's in-store info-monitors, and who knows what next. Do I sound cynical? I sincerely hope so! I cannot believe all the revolting things that are being presented to the American public and they are just thrilled at how much our leaders care about our safety. It's as if, the special group of followers of "the powers that be" become more pleased with their leaders as our privacy and rights are diminished. And you can tell who they are. People that support this present administration are for the most part, the people that have always seen that others needed to be corraled and hemmed in, for their own sake of course. And they have done their best to take that duty upon themselves for years. It's as if their beloved leaders have personally given them a respite. Okay, now I am combining the lovely trait of sarcasm with cynicism. I'll attempt to rein myself in, before they have to start a new cabinet post for the likes of me.
Now a word about Saddam, if that's really who he is. You know, when I heard the "authorized version" of his capture, I didn't believe it was Saddam, but now that I have heard the quieted but not quite silenced story, maybe it is him. At any rate . . . His entire detaining cell is under surveillance 24/7. Not just the door and window, if there is one, but the whole cell. Maybe some member of the "powers that be" is afraid he might "off" himself, before judgment and punishment can be administered.
Our military is spread around the world and involved in two wars. How can they possibly have time for the Abu Ghraib behavior or freeze-framing video tape of Saddam? What is our military being taught? Or are things so desperate that anyone can now "qualify to serve" in the military?
I hesitate to ask "what's next" because they undoubtedly have it in the works as soon as the general public will shut up and take what's good for them.
And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually

Motivation + Achievement = Taxation

Now we are doing the math, yes? Here in our town, we have come across a real sore spot between the "powers that be" and those of us who live under the "powers that be." The city has insisted upon a community appearance program in which the tax paying property owners have been pushed and prodded and oppressed to the point of no return. You simply would not believe the number of places For Sale! Then when the property owner relents and attempts to make the improvements, we find the county is assessing all the improvements and telling us that increases the value of the property. Wrong!!! What that increases is our taxes, plain and simple, and nothing more. Now don't forget that we are also the ones that are attempting to "help" all the less fortunate and underprivileged, which amounts to nothing more than meeting the demands of an already overly demanding government. Did you ever think a government official would use the same manipulation as your mom and try to make you feel guilty for what someone else has, while still making you feel that it is your freedom and opportunity [well actually, obligation] to achieve? Of course, with this enabling demanding leadership at the top, what do we expect? And for those of us who would like to contribute, how do we just sit back and suck up law suits, disability labels and entitlements? I am actually related to a disabled secretary that "can't" perform her previous employment duties, but can do any other kind of work and document data for any other cause, other than of course, honest employment. And, she has all the entitlements of being disabled.
Now back to realizing our "freedom to pay taxes" has become nothing more than a penalty for achieving. You know, there is really nothing more that needs to be said. That really says it all, now, doesn't it?
But require them to make the same number of bricks as before; don't reduce the quota. . . Make the work harder . . .

No Free Lunch!

Anyone that still believes there is no free lunch has never been to St. Joseph, MO or probably countless other American inner cities that are getting huge government grants for charity. As a property owner and tax payer, I'm exhausted. You see, we are among the Americans that are still trying to achieve and contribute, [the true minority] while also showing compassion and charity, and you know, the demands are really intense from both directions. As I catered, and I do mean catered, to the line at the food kitchen today, I realized there is a real problem in our country. Many people have just decided they will never contribute, only receive. I am absolutely shocked and amazed at the number of able bodied people that expect a hand-out and don't find any shame in that. I am also shocked at the amount of food that isn't eaten, but gets scraped into the garbage, at the FREE food kitchen. And the recipients make no bones about it, of course neither do those in administration. As we have all become aware, there is no shame in begging any more, it's big business and even bigger government administration. This administration and beggar relationship is much more secure than company/union ever was. And for those of us who believe we should help those that are less privileged, just who has defined privileged or under privileged? Is someone that doesn't pay taxes or maintain property, yet has a warm dry place to live and three meals a day served to them, without having to go to the market or wash a dish really less privileged? Couldn't all this effort and expense actually be used to help children or people that are really disabled? As I saw those people go through the line today, demanding, yes demanding certain desserts or fuller beverages, etc., I thought to myself, they don't have to pay an increased property assessment, why they don't even have to buy outrageously priced gasoline for a mower. And, when it's all said and done, they get to cash a monthly check and ask me for a receipt on their rent, because renters can file short form and recieve a credit. When was the last time a married couple with a mortgage had that privilege? No Free Lunch! is a cliche that is well on it's way to retirement, but undoubtedly there will be no pension and no government subsidy.
the sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth

What???

Sometimes I hear things that just seem too outlandish for the news, and then I remember, I live in America. Without free speech and freedom of the press, I wouldn't be writing this. And I certainly don't want to be monitored and censored, but journalists and politicians have really outdone themselves this week. When I read that Dr. Rice had referred to the Koran with the adjective "holy," I tried to check it out, but never found any tangible print. So, then one must begin to sort the red and blue herrings. Did somebody throw that out there to get the heat off of the Newsweek article. I mean really, where are the religious right? Can you believe that someone in America in national politics called another religion's book holy and the religious right did nothing? So, I'm thinking, maybe that "holy" adjective wasn't used after all. And I just don't know what Newsweek was thinking. Have they forgotten that when the fundamentalists of another religion get angry, decapitations take place? If they are angry at America's politicians, fine, write an article about that, blog if they have to! But America's journalists and photographers need to remember, there are other people that will pay the price, so get the story straight. Retractions just don't have the same power that headlines do.
Now, back to the politicians and the event. I actually heard a quote from White House Press Secretary, Scott McClellan, on a republican radio station use the adjective "holy" in referring to the Muslim book. I can't believe that, I don't want to believe that. When was the last time any of the "persons of faith" at the White House even referred to the Bible as Holy? Just what is the faith of our leaders?
And as far as Newsweek goes, apparently they didn't get far enough in the story to consider the ramifications of such an act on the plumbing. I do not know the dimensions of the Koran, but I really don't think a Newsweek would flush.

But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy I Peter 1:15, 16 Holy Bible

Whose Side Are We Really On?

I realize it is "politically correct" to be somewhat skeptical regarding Israel and her rights in the Middle East. Some are downright indignant against Israel. After having been there and seeing for myself, I am as pro-Israel as ever. I believe America's religious right present a pro-Israel facade that is actually causing some of the "anti" sentiments. That is not a typo for Semitism. The American Presbyterians were the first to pull back from supporting Israel and if I am not mistaken, Dr. Condaleezza Rice and Dr. Bill Frist are both Presbyterian. And in all fairness, the Democrats actually do attempt to present the Palestinians to be the displaced victims. With all that being said, I am pro-Israel, simply because the Bible very clearly outlines the geographical borders of the nation of Israel and they have no where near that amount of land, anyway. Much of the land that President Bush is pushing Prime Minister Sharon to "give up" was actually purchased years ago, and even what was won in the Six Day War, was won. Nobody in Britian or the US, is calling the geography of the 13 colonies, occupied land. Let's get real, here. America has done nothing but encourage and push Israel to make concessions our leaders wouldn't dream of doing. And America hasn't really been kind or forthright about this. As already stated, we have the religious and powerful that are actually participating in a ban against Israel. Our President proclaims in the face of terrorism, "we won't relent and we do not negotiate with terrorists." But his advice to Prime Minister Sharon has been very different. I can't believe the hypocrisy. President Bush's followers can't get along with other Americans of a different party, and this is the man that thinks he can bring peace to two peoples that have been enemies for over 4,000 years? That would bring me to another reference in Scripture. The Messiah promised to bring peace when He returns and anyone else that promises is speaking lies. If only the . . . And then we get to the promises and the funding for the Palestinians. Dr. Rice mentioned that they should have a land that is contiguous. Which means, if the Gaza Strip and Golan Heights and West Bank are to connect, Israel will give up much more and basically be surrounded by a people that do not want to acknowledge the existence of Israel. And the Palestinians have been promised $200 million American dollars in their establishment efforts. Think about this, I have examples that compare. Say someone is suing your best friend and you hire the lawyer for the one filing the law suit . . . Say your best friend gets a divorce from someone whom you have called a real jerk and then you start keeping time with your friend's ex. Just how does a nation rationalize funding the enemy of an ally?
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

Political Correctness?

I looked up the definition on WordWeb . . .

Political Correctness: Avoidance of expressions or actions that can be perceived to exclude or marginalize or insult people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against

Political Incorrectness: The use of expressions or actions that can be perceived to exclude or marginalize or insult groups who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against

Isn't it interesting that the party that attempts and strives for political correctness is now socially disadvantaged?

And isn't it also interesting that the controlling party with majority favor finds political incorrectness to be a virtue?

If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.

What is the Law Regarding Cold Feet?

Well, here we are, America making national headlines out of what, forty years ago, would have been beauty shop gossip. Now, granted, we all have an opinion of how we would have better handled the situation, and I am sure many opinions are much more responsible than Jennifer’s choice, but all of us with opinions weren’t in her shoes. But, I am really getting concerned about the fact that meddling expenses may be entitled to reimbursement and adults are no longer free to leave town if they choose. The laws are getting interesting. It wasn’t so long ago that a missing persons report couldn’t even be filed on an adult for 48 hours. And I don’t know a person alive that doesn’t know somebody that pulled some sort of questionable stunt regarding marriage. Remember an old Dick Van Dyke Show, in which Laura finally admitted she had lied about her age on the marriage license application? What would we do with the “likes of her” now? I did find it ironic in this woman’s situation, that in running out on a marriage, she went to the “marriage capital” of the country; Las Vegas. So, is this a matter of cold feet? Did she want to see how simple an elopement in Vegas was compared to a guest list of 600 with 14 attendants? I hear all the talk about her potential problems in what she did and I think, sure, this wasn’t a stable move, but . . . When I read Friday that she called from New Mexico and finally told the truth or the version they are accepting, there were no charges expected from the Albuquerque police, I thought ok, she’s really only been missing 3 days, less than a full day after a missing person’s official filing. Once again, not stable, her relationship is probably in jeopardy, but . . . The city is considering billing or suing for searching costs, when a great deal of the manpower was volunteers? Now, some prosecutor in Georgia wants to see if she broke a law? With all these questions in the air, now, I have a few. I am not in any way attempting to rationalize her behavior, but she’s not the only one that I am having trouble understanding.
With this frantic search, and she is home and alive, what would have been better results? and don’t forget, she’s the one that made the call, no one found her!
I remember cold feet being mentioned right away, so are city and county government now entitled to recoup funds they claim were used when there was no reason to begin the search? Is it now going to be illegal to lie to your boyfriend? Is it going to be illegal in Georgia to lie in another state? You do know, this will help the proponents of the National ID agenda, and for that I will say, she has done her part to ruin it for everyone else, but other than that . . . Men have gone to the store for cigarettes and never come back, women have left husbands, lock, stock and barrel with no note. And before all our security programs, would we have considered after finding someone alive and unharmed, to find a way to “book ’em?”
It is an honor for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling

Ready

When the the crocus have bloomed already, and when the forcythia blooms, spring is here and Passover is at hand. Those are the signs in the midwest of America. In Israel, it is right before the first fruits. The first harvest is at hand. I am really excited this year as we prepare for Passover, because there is something that I have been overlooking for years that will be included in our observation of this most awesome deliverance. And I am going to post tomorrow afternoon and then take a week to simply focus on the Goodness that G~d is, and the freedom that I have in Y'shuah. I know this sounds more like a sermon than my usual political blog, well maybe it is. The usual political players are contributing their usual performance for blog material, but there is something more amazing that I am getting to observe. This is big stuff! G~d delivered the children of Israel from the bondage of Egypt and then close to a couple of thousand years later, He sent His Son to die on Passover and free the whole world of the bondage, we don't call sin, but G~d does. If you don't believe that G~d created the world in six days and did all those plagues in Egypt and miracles in the wilderness, then clearly we have a different religion, but I am celebrating this. And there's more Good News, all the miracles Y'shuah did while on earth, He still does them. Oh, I know there are all kinds of methods of man, and science and discovery, but G~d still does what He always did. I figure He has graciously allowed unbelievers to have all these other remedies, that they might live long enough to actually see Him for Who He is. So, once again, a different religion, but with so much promotion of tolerance and dilution of Scriptural faith, it's been clouded and muddled. Well, I am actually excited and looking forward to this wonderful opportunity and this awesome day of remembrance of deliverance.
and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason concerning the hope that is in you

The Power of RIGHT

While I am proposing questions of preponderance, the right marches on! And this right, left thing . . . don’t think it isn’t a political ploy from the beginning. There is a real stigma with not being Right in something. I am left handed and have literally heard someone refer to that as “wrong handed.” We desire to be in our “right minds.” In every discussion we want to be right. Certainly in an argument, everybody wants to be right! And the various terms that are associated with the word RIGHT are the key to why it is best to be right! I looked up Right first for antonyms and found three: center, left, wrong. Well do these three words sound like anything we listened to through the debates and campaigns. Politically, center is moderate and both sides aren’t terribly proud of that position. The Bible instructs us to “let our moderation show to all . . .” Well, the only time I have heard politicians refer to the Bible in the last four years is on the campaign trail or at time of war. Left is the opposite of right when one is referring to hands or turns. Left does not, however; have the same definition as the word wrong except in American politics. Wrong is still considered the opposite of right, but not necessarily the opposite of moral or righteous. For you see, moral people can kill now, they call it pre-emptive strikes. And righteous people can hate, as long as it is someone that politically disagrees. And somehow, the American public and certainly the ones claiming to be right, have associated all the synonyms of the word right with their politics. Correct, decent, good, proper, powerful, justly, mighty, suitable.
The true reality is: we know that totalitarian government is no better than communism and a dictatorship is not superior to socialism. They are all extremes that we have read about and observed in other countries and governments that we say, we do not want here in America. What so many Americans seem to be forgetting is the farther left or right anyone leans, the more diminished is the chance to simply move in the forward direction.
Where would our American society be if way back before there were republicans and democrats, the political extremes had been labeled in the opposite manner. Let’s face it, the republicans have something going for them that the democrats are never going to have. People like to be RIGHT.
do according to all the law, which Moses My servant commanded you: don`t turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.

Patriotism?

The word patriotism is really getting a workout these days and the definitions are so varying. And I realize I am beginning to sound as negative about what is going on in America ,as Rush L. did through the Clinton years. Only, he made a lot more money at it. And I don't want to sound negative, I wish I could be encouraging, but we need to get on the right path for that. I realize the Repentance Party wouldn't get many votes, but the Golden Rule Party should seem somewhat appealing. What are we to do, now that patriotism; also is in the eye of the beholder, but mostly in the definition of the most powerful mouth? I really don't want to sound like the radio guys, but they do have one thing going for them, they can really promote political propaganda, and I don't. While I am trying to introduce this concept of: Hey, we need to question this! Hey, we really need to question this! Well, while I am proposing questions of preponderance, the right marches on! How did the republican party get to be the patriotic party? How did the other American political party get reduced to problematic? And the small formerly third parties are smaller and closer to former every day. How is it that while Rush Limbaugh degraded every step President Clinton took, he was perceived to be a patriot? And how is it that those that do not applaud every step President Bush takes, are questionable and possibly even anti-American? I thought patriotism was love of country, which may lean a little too much toward idolatry for me anyway. I looked up the meaning of patriotism. It is love of contry and willingness to sacrifice for it. Well, I pray for this country and it's leaders and pay some amazing taxes and I am not in the age group to collect Social Security, so by definition, even though I am not a republican, I am in fact a patriot! And, I am praying for our country and it's leaders regardless of who is the President. I truly try to be loyal to our country, but when something is wrong and an entire nation is being led against the Bible, I have to say something. I was embarrassed when I was overseas and the news reported about America and our leaders from a non-sheltering perspective. Other countries were certainly not bashing our nation, but just telling the news without a bias or just showing the behavior of our leaders, and it wasn't pretty. I don't like it when America looks so petty and rude around the world, and often we do, but I am an American and I try very hard to not be disloyal to any leader, but I do feel I have the right to disagree, at least for now, I feel that I have the right to disagree and voice it. I do love our country. I wish our generation wasn't still trying to struggle through the legacy left for us, and we were leaving a better America for our grandchildren than we were given. I do want that, but honestly I don't see it happening. I was absolutely ashamed in 1993, when a political promoter was hired to present a nightly TV program to abase Bill Clinton's presidency. The show began the same way Ted Kopel introduced Nightline through the Iranian hostage siutation. And that political promoter is still called a patriot by his faithful listeners. There are people who do love our country and really do want it to be a better place for their children and grandchildren and are willing to make the sacrifice. Wouldn't it be nice if the leaders were so willing?
In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war . . .

Who's Who In This Deal?

I've been hearing good reports about this Minuteman Project. I also heard that the school that was housing them, was fined, but I can't confirm it, so I will qualify both statements as hearsay. I read that the Border Patrol was really appreciative of the Minuteman Project and thought President Bush and the ACLU were not really judging the situation for what it is. Once again, I don't have actual facts about this, but it just doesn't make sense to me that our President would call for so much "cracking down" on Americans every time we turn around and then leave the border wide open. I have no idea what the plan is, but I am sure there is one. Now, the ACLU looking for something to squawk about, doesn't leave the same lingering question. I have the impression from what I am reading that the ACLU feels compelled to protect the rights of illegal aliens. Well, they have made a lot of noise about the loss of American's freedoms, but they don't seem to be too successful at actually helping us preserve them. I am beginning to think the ACLU is just a "prop" to keep the red herrings swimming by, and the conservatives in an uproar. I mean really, the ACLU can't be all that powerful. Where are they as all these people are being arrested and held? Where are they as people with minimal tax delinquencies are have their vehicles towed? Where are they, as American school children are subjected to every questionable opinion from both political sides? And, I have really been questioning why the Minuteman Project has not been given their due respect according to the 2nd Amendment. Surely there is one person in the Minuteman Project that is also a member of the NRA. Or, is that the problem, the Minuteman Project cannot be recognized as valuable unless it is under the umbrella of the NRA. Where are the lobbyists for the Minuteman Project? Well that question, I think I can answer. I think everyone that really believes in this cause and has the time and funds to be involved are on the "front line" so to speak. It would seem, these Minutemen have the heart and soul of the founding fathers. They don't have time to play politics, they are protecting our country and setting the example of what it is to be a patriot.
Be strong and very courageous . . .

What's The Deal?

I checked out my news page this evening and find myself reading about the G-7. What happened to the G-8? Remember, last year, they all had their private meeting on an island off the coast of Georgia, for security reasons. And when I did a google search about the G-8, one of the entries worded, G-8, formerly G-7. So, now it's G-7 again, last year it was G-8, but before that it was G-7. But I can never find the reason for the change in numbers, nor can I find who seems to be inconsistant in their membership. I will tell you right now, I didn't search very long, because I start getting these [This Page is No Longer Available] browsers and I just get disgusted. I have gotten a bit skeptical here, and I better type it early, because if Dr. Frist gets his way, the latest edition of the DSM_-R will have a new entry for mental illness called political paranoia. The bad thing about this, is; it won't be general news until all the political ducks in Washington are in a row and in agreement. And those of us that are warning everyone will be the first to be called political paranoids or conspiracy theorists. I am including a link, just for your perusal. http://rense.com/general61/emen.htm I found it an interesting perspective. Going to make a lovely companion to the New Freedom Initiative that President Bush has already signed into law. And our new Attorney General thinks we need more groping in the airports. The security isn't enough, yet. Well, probably not, there are still what two or three airlines in America that haven't gone bankrupt, yet? Let's make air travel more invasive, if possible. I think, if the security that is in place has missed all that he claims they have let go through, and there still hasn't been another 9/11, the problem is not so problematic. If we still have an open border, and our airlines are letting all the undercover guys get through security and the bags that get detained in check-on, but the person always gets away, we are looking pretty safe. I mean, President Bush says there are still tons of gaps in our intelligence system and I will agree with his astute observation of a void in intelligence. Attorney General Gonzoles says there is not enough security, but we haven't been attacked. How much more do we need, when the mission is accomplished? So what's the deal?
Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?

The Bottom Line

The Fair Tax is back on the Table and this is probably perfect timing. It is tax season and it is time for outdoor activities. Talk radio is being pre-empted for baseball, so this is the perfect time to get things changed when no one is really paying attention. And this Fair Tax thing must be so great, because it is starting to get fed to us from all directions. That’s right, you know something is just too good to pass up, when it keeps getting thrust upon you. You know, this Fair Tax, makes sense in two ways. Clearly the American public spends more than they make, so taxing the outgo, rather than the income is just good business, but our government isn’t a business. Anytime a business is operating in the deficit that our government operates, it’s time for restructuring, downsizing, or bankruptcy. Oh, but our government just changed the bankruptcy laws, so that may not be an option. Back to the Fair Tax . . . Remember, I know about this definition of FAIR. FAIR is defined by the one presenting their agenda, and to agree with them is always the decision on the side of FAIR.
The Fair Tax and Social Security reform will resolve the gay marriage issue. There will be nothing to file together or separately and there will be nothing to collect when any of us are old. Problem solved!
And no politician had to risk losing an election. Besides, the executive branch can blame the judicial branch and the judicial branch can blame the legislative branch, and the legislative branch will put the responsibility back on the constituents, and maybe that is the way it should be. Why are we putting up with all this nonsense? But the bottom line is, everything for any of the mere mortal citizens and the gay marriage issue will ultimately be out of the “wringing hands” of every elected official. Since I am quite sure there is a difference between marriage ordained by G~d and the certificate of the state, legislation changes nothing. But it sure gets everybody in an uproar. And that really seems to be the mission our government is accomplishing! Can’t they just do it a little cheaper? Back to tax . . . What are we going to do with unemployed IRS auditors and agents? What will happen to H&R Block Stock? I’m not tongue in cheek, here, managing taxes are a big part of the American economy, what will be the impact and results? And when it gets down to the bottom line. The experts pushing for this Fair Tax, say prices will go down 20%-30%, due to eliminating “hidden taxes.” If they never told us about these “hidden taxes” until now, what has determined we can trust them now? When the majority of Americans are in the 28% tax bracket and are having difficulty affording Americana. And our government is sinking lower and lower in what they now call “shortfalls,” collecting 28% of our income. How will 23% sales tax really cover the high maintenance government we must now support? So what is the bottom line? Are the powers that be, banking on us to spend more than we make, or is 23% just very, very temporary?
it shall come to pass at the ingatherings, that ye shall give a fifth unto Pharaoh, and four parts shall be your own,

Campaigning toward 2008

After my devotion time this morning, an interesting thought occurred to me. I have already read where some are trying to make an amendment to enable the Governor of California to run for president, but that isn’t looking too likely. But I did find it interesting to discover that another popular Hollywood figure, known for his devotion was in fact an American citizen, who has just been living out of the country for awhile. I was shocked to see a website promoting Mel Gibson for president. What a concept, and he’s deeply religious, or so the movie reviews indicate. Now you may ask what are his credentials for the office of president? And to that I really don’t have an answer, other than to say, he certainly wouldn’t be the first actor in the White House. But I have gone a bit farther in my scenario and included Dr. Condoleezza Rice on the ticket. I am not sure that it really matters who would be President and who would be Vice. Clearly, the Republicans want a winning ticket, and I just think that combination is the Republican hope for holding their own against Hillary Clinton. The Republicans don’t really have a popular candidate and Florida’s governor has just had his hands too full to prepare for this, so I really won’t be surprised at all if they manage this particular combination. And, if you consider the two women . . . Hillary has literally worked for years laying the groundwork, but the platform she has produced is truly much more personified in Dr. Rice, than in Mrs. Clinton. Dr. Rice is the single woman that has literally accomplished so much on her own. Hillary is Mrs. Clinton. Dr. Rice is the one that works and travels and made the choice to actually succeed in “a man’s world.” Furthermore, Dr. Rice is not only a shining example to little girls throughout our country, but also to children of ethnicity. She is a powerful, black woman, and that is an exciting accomplishment, that should be duly noted, and worthy of votes. Dr. Rice is not hard-lined when it comes to the issue of abortion, but when it comes to pro-lifers, she is a religious conservative, and certainly closer to their views than Hillary has presented herself to be. And anyway, America loves a good fight . . .
Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise.

The Religion of Philosophy

I am usually pretty vocal when it comes to the religious right or the politicians misquoting or questioningly applying Scripture, but I don’t usually say too much when it comes to the “liberals” they are “coming against.” There are two reasons for that. One is, it is very difficult to make a point with a liberal. Because they can see everyone’s perspective, or so they say. Or maybe they really do believe they have that lofty perspective, who knows? When one disagrees with any detail of the beliefs of a neo-conservative, they determine that individual to be somewhere between a moderate and an anarchist, all of which are wrong, anyway, so it doesn‘t matter. They know and I know, we disagree. But the liberal philosophers are different, there appears to be a sense of accomplishment with a circular conversation. So, at the end of the chat, they know and I know, words can be plenteous without being meaningful. Now back to my second reason for not saying much about the liberal perspective. I really didn’t see it as a progressive political party any more, so what’s to argue, where are they going? But the philosophy of “blending concepts” has truly become the American religion, even amongst what some would call Christians. Just as the neo-conservative right wing religion gains momentum in all they stand against, the liberal philosophy gains acceptance in all they say they accept. But just as with the neo-cons, the liberal philosophers have a difficult time embracing another view especially when it comes to religion. It would seem they are as devout in their mix of beliefs, as the conservatives are in George Bush, and I am in the Bible. I didn’t take them seriously as a religion, before, but I do now. They need and deserve to be recognized. I am not going to be presumptuous and state their tenets of faith, because I do not know them, but they do have them. Nor am I going to name their religion, other than for the sake of this post refer to it as humanistic philosophy, but it is a creed, it is a system of beliefs with it’s own doctrine of sorts, agenda, and even a bit of dogma, now and again. Humanist Philosophy is probably growing more rapidly than any other religion for two basic reasons. It isn’t recognized as an authentic religion, therefore it doesn’t come across as something too devout, nor to devoutly avoid. And it presents itself much more calmly and resolutely than most recognized religions. Most of it’s “faithful” are degreed or degree seeking individuals with an intellectual aloofness or pseudo-intellectual comportment. Be it good or bad, things that are not recognized for what they are, tend to be fully developed by the time they are acknowledged. And I now acknowledge that we are looking at a bona fide religion. This humanistic philosophical religion t has a little politics, a little science, a little ethics, and even a little Bible, but each of these contributory factors are weighed and woven by the believer.
I perceive that in all things ye are very religious

Bible Literalists?

I know I’ve posted that I am a minister, but this is not a sermon. I have discovered, as a minister, I get to hear everyone else’s beliefs. And I get to hear how much they compare their beliefs to mine, and yet there is little comparison. There has really been some bothersome terminology in the news, recently about the Bible literalists. Now, these are the D. James Kennedy and Jerry Falwell, followers, and they are not Bible literalists. If someone believes the Bible, literally, they realize their Commission is not to be morality monitor, but to share the Good News with others. G~d never called His people to force the rules on people that were not interested in following G~d. And the promises of G~d, such as healing are not considered to be in effect any longer, by these men that are determined to be everyone’s conscience. I mean, they pray, but they go to doctors. True believers that take the Scriptures literally don’t eat pork, turn the other cheek, trust G~d for healing, and don’t beg for money. And when they don’t follow G~d’s divine statutes, it is called sin, rationalization is not allowed! Repentance is a must! Forgiveness is available in Y’shuah, that ‘s the Good News, but the definition of sin is still determined by G~d’s Word, not by the moral majority. If these men really wanted to stop abortion, for instance, first they would quit making it a political issue, all together. You see, literally the Bible says we are to share the love of G~d with those around us. Do you really think someone that knows and feels the love of G~d could kill? I know the war-mongers may be convincing, but Y’shuah set the example and He healed the ear of his captor. Now, back to G~d’s love stopping abortion. You know, it might be worth a try, because the moral majority can’t do it and the religious politicians are powerless, but the G~d of the true Bible believers is not powerless. And there’s more! The Good News is the answer to all the woes of man. Granted, everyone isn’t interested, but many have never heard. And what is sad, the attitude of the moral majority and those that call themselves literalists, are making things very difficult for those of us that are just trying to walk with G~d and share the Truth of His love and mercy. I am absolutely sure the Bible is to be believed literally, and fully. But the religious lobbyists and the politicians that think they are appointed by G~d have a completely different agenda and belief system than those of us that believe the Bible, literally.
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged:

Spring

I have to just take a moment and quit looking at all the things in our world that are annoying, and take a deep breath and notice that spring is here. The sights and sounds of spring are always invigorating. In the little corner of the world that I call home, it is springtime. The barren limbs and ground, are now sending forth greenery. And there is just a delightful dainty rainbow of colors in all the tiny blooms in the ground cover G~d has planted. The crocuses and jonquils have been beautiful this year and the daffodils , never more yellow. There is already wonderful evidence of the tulips and lily of the valley that will be forthcoming. I have to just take a rest from the hourly 3-5 minutes of news and the many hours of news analysis that is promoted and offered. It would appear that the botanical bounty that G~d has allowed me to plant will be doing well this year, also. I have already seen some very green strawberry leaves. The fruit vines are gaining leaves daily and the peach tree is adorned with the most beautiful burgundy leaves this time of year. It will be so pretty with the burgundy leaves and the delicate pink blossoms soon. I have also been noticing the baby birds. I haven’t seen them in their nests, I haven’t really seen too many nests, I am referring the ones that are just big enough to be “out and about.” I watched one the other evening, glide and flap his wings with just enough momentum to make it from a tree limb to land on an overhead wire. He appeared to be hanging on for dear life, wondering how he would ever get off the wire, yet fully aware that he had actually flown! Whether or not, he thought all the things that I pondered for him, I felt blessed to get to see his early flight. I have also noticed how much pigeons sound like doves, and that just makes them more beautiful to think of them that way. Actually I have noticed their variegated feathers, and they really are pretty birds. They just travel in big messy bunches. And then I think of “Pete,” the pigeon in Greece that met me every morning on the roof top café at the inn where we stayed. He came right up to the table, knowing I would be giving him dry cereal as I enjoyed my morning coffee taking in the scenery of Athens and the ships on the Mediterranean. In the spring, I am so grateful for life, that I must take the time to just acknowledge the beauty of G~d‘s freshly awakened world. When I appreciate life, I must accredit G~d.
When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained; What is man, that you are mindful of him?