The Right and Power to Play "I've Got a Secret"

Years ago one evening a week, for 30 minutes, probably Tuesday or Thursday, the panel game show "I've Got a Secret" was aired across America. Now it's live from Capitol Hill, all day, every day, we can see the 21st Century version of "I've Got a Secret," better known as American politics. I read in the opinion journal yesterday, an interesting discourse, to of course, discredit democrats, but as I read it, I realized, our nation truly has it's priorities out of whack, and yet it's explained with absolute "moral justification." I've included the link.
http://www.opinionjournal.com/editorial/feature.html?id=110010371
In this article, the topic of Executive Privilege is discussed. It would seem that republicans interpret that to mean anything they don't choose to tell us about meetings and security, etc. Democrats seem to like it best for what they consider personal and private matters, like girl-friends and old business associates.
It seems Executive Privilege has always been open to the interpretation of the Resident of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Although I don't condone adultery, I truly never saw why a tryst in the White House became the issue it did. All involved were consensual adults and there was no indication that she was there through top secret discussions. She signed in as an intern, so there was a degree of clearance already established. I never did know why it was such a matter of proportion. And I truthfully don't know what the concern is about 8 laywers that got fired. Everything that happens in Washington, DC is partisan and political, so what's the big deal about this? Clinton appeared to have a history of regularly having another woman in the picture. And President Bush clearly has a reputation of surrounding himself, only with likeminded individuals.
What bothers me about this Executive Privilege and the article was the statement:
Without secrecy, the government can't function.
This article was clearly partisan and standing "right." I guess, I feel a little less fearful of tyranny when some smooth talking, hen-pecked, middle-aged politician is trying to use Executive Privilege to hide the young woman under his desk, than when some cocksure, war-mongering, fear inciting politician starts enlarging the circle as to who is included in this special Executive Privilege outside of the awareness of Congress.
I don't know where the line is drawn between a government that functions in secrecy and leaders that consider themselves above accountability, but it is now in writing that we the people shouldn't expect our leaders to keep us informed. Even with "sunshine laws" regarding government, our leader has the power and right to interpret executive privilege and say "I've Got a Secret."
For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. New Testament

Politics, War, and 2008

I've been reading the various perspectives of just who will do what about what the other party has done. Here is my perspective. It isn't in great detail yet, and perhaps it will never need to be, but here it is. Political parties are just theatre here in America. In the past fifty years, the appointments to the Supreme Court have primarily been made by "conservative" presidents, each party has had their opportunity at being the majority in Congress, and we have had more republican years than democrat years in the White House in my life, and frankly the conservatives don't seem any more moral or forthright than those at whom they would cast stones. The democrats, by the same token do not appear to be the bleeding hearts they would like we the taxpaying people to be. I haven't read any great headlines about Hillary using that cattle future "windfall" on health care for underprivileged kids, and I don't think the Edwards are talking about poverty from a personal "give til it hurts" perspective. And I'll start buying pricy flourescent light bulbs when Al parks the Escalade. See, just theatre! But while we are watching the puppet show and the circus, the real power lies in the corporate money and amazingly most of the first Bush cabinet are now serving on some pretty interesting boards! I'm suggesting that we will have a democrat elected in 2008 for three reasons. 1. The money really rules this country and by in large most of Wall Streets major investors lean to the right. 2. There is no exit for this war, so it will have to continue and probably, the way the leadership is talking, will be intesified rather than reduced, so . . . no one in their right mind would enlist. That's right, we'll be needing a draft, and the republicans would be pretty sharp to step back and let the dems have credit for that fiasco. and 3. Historically, any president who walks into or assumes the post through a major mess, is a one termer, and the previous party is ushered back in.
I've found it interesting for a few months, that the campaign began so early, and there is virtually no electable republican, even running. Are the democrats are so desirous of the pompous prestige, they do not realize the other party has stepped back?
There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

FOOD FIGHT !!!

I don't use this blog as a pulpit, per se, but . . . how can a so called Christian nation not see this? I will keep this short and to the point.
Just how many laws are the religious right willing to embrace to avoid the laws of G~d? Funny, every time I bring this topic up with an evangelical Christian, I get the same response. "Jesus said . . ." Well, Scripture says, the Word of G~d stands forever. I find this food fight between China and the new executive order, intriguing. Since America has supposedly received unsafe catfish, shellfish, and eel, we now have food tasters in the empire. And since America has declared this new action, China is now refusing the American pork. Just how many man made laws will there be to govern this "aggressive debate" and ultimately how far reaching and invasive will these laws become? Why does a Christian nation need to give up their rights to their own food? The Bible already says, the import items in question, from both countries, are not to be consumed, anyway. So, rather than decide to live by G~d's simple instructions for life, we have elected a man that by executive order will establish a panel, make many new rules, and somehow through all this, override what G~d said over 3,000 years ago . . . also for health and safety.
And the swine . . . he is unclean to you. And all that have not fins and scales . . . in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you: Torah of Holy Scripture

I Never Liked the Circus

I wanted to just pen a light hearted blog today. Something has been on my mind for a couple of days and I wanted to share my perspective. There is a town in Vermont that makes the news once in a while because they have no ordinance against public nudity. Once in awhile a headline about that town makes one of my news sources. Well, finally the town is considering an ordinance. The ordinance isn't over rowdy teens or youthful indecency, it's because a 60 some year old man made a point of allegedly exhibiting himself. Isn't that nice. These seniors are just determined to ruin everything for everyone. They have special discounts, special menu items, special days to shop at a discount, and all of us working our fingers to the bone so they can get their monthly checks and spend half of at least one day a week in the waiting room of some doctor, that is also provided by we the taxpayers; and all the while arguing vehemently against a socialist society. Wow, it finally occurred to me, socialized anything would give the rest of us the same benefits they enjoy. I say, in light of all this special treatment for being a senior, they should realize they "deserve" special treatment in this little Vermont town, and keep their clothes on!
Now, on to more urgent matters.
While the Senate gave speeches, snoozed, and showed off for themselves last night, to accomplish nothing; the executive branch of our government didn't losing any sleep. He seemed particularly confident in his new executive order today. I don't know why the Senate and House can't see that they are merely props that accomplish nothing and keep the focus distracted. Senate and the House are like the jugglers in the circus. They are entertaining, even fascinating for a time, but they are certainly not center ring in this three ring circus.
Here is the point I would have a "drum roll"
And in the center ring, we have Fearless George. He is going to perform for us, a feat that has not yet been tried on our soil. Although, we have had presidents that pay farmers not to produce crops, we've not had one, til now that seems so passionate about total control in every area. Our FDA has been answerable to a point to the legislative branch, and America used to produce more than it consumed, but that is no longer the case.
Our food supply is now in the hands of the executive branch of the government. He has now established a food safety panel for imported food, that directly answers to the Health and Human Services Secretary. And the FDA is closing a large number of their laboratories. Coincidence? Perhaps to the exceedingly faithful neo-con extremists . . .
We do, of course, realize that most of our food is imported, and what isn't, is genetically modified. What does that mean to the average consumer? We don't yet know the future long term effects of all this disorder against the statutes and natural laws of G~d, but what we can glean from history would be this:
Absolute Power is in the hands of those that hold the food supply.
. . . buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

Everybody Loves a Puppet Show

I have two memories from very early childhood. And nearly 50 years ago, neither had anything to do with the other, but times have changed . . . I, like many children, had a real fascination and enjoyment with puppets. They were just fun. There was Sherri Lewis and lambchop. There was Tory Southwick and Gus, don't forget Kukla, Fran, and Ollie; and there was my toybox and my vivid imagination. My second memory is distinctly different. I remember the Kennedy / Nixon debate in 1960. I realize many Americans remember that famous debate, but I was born in 1958. In 1960, I had no idea how connected those two trenchant memories would become in the 21st Century. It would appear that most of our leaders also enjoyed the shows that focused on puppets. Here, it is Tuesday night and Capitol Hill is supposed to be an all night debate, but it's already been reported that there are cots, so it just sounds like a theatrical sleep-over to me. I've read some very interesting information regarding PM Al-Maliki. He seems pretty confident that America can stay or go, he's rather indifferent to our national division over his claim to "sovereignty" with his inability to maintain his country. Besides, his government is going on vacation next month, as is our Congress. Don't you wonder what the next puppet feature will be? The only independent decision Iraq seems to be able to make and carry out, is capital punishment. And the Bush followers can't see the puppet government in that, at all. Next in the news is all this talk about impending doom at the hands of terrorists, with alQaida central, supposedly now in Iraq. Well, America has given them a wonderful headquarters and recruiting station in Iraq, and the entire Iraqi government will be "out of town" next month. I keep reading about Taliban and alQaida training camps in Pakistan, yet the Pakistani leader is our ally? Isn't it at least time for an intermission on that show? We knew binLaden was headed to Pakistan shortly after 9/11, but our leadership opted to go to Iraq instead of Pakistan. Obviously, if binLaden was a real issue, there would have been a different choice and direction in '02, and clearly in '03, but then that would change the theatre of fear here on the homefront, now wouldn't it . . . How would the people continue to be led to cower in fear, if the dastardly villian, binLaden, were captured? That would make the puppet show end too quickly! And I noticed today that the Bancroft family is, after all, considering Murdoch's offer for the Dow Jones. So, we'll have a new theater soon, and the props have already been "raised" into place. Remember how Kukla and Ollie used to "thump" each other through the program? Now, consider our cast for this puppet theater: Rupert Murdoch, News Corp., FOXNews, the Dow Jones including the Wall Street Journal, and FEATURING: "fair talk" radio "persecution" vs. Ted Turner, CNN, Hollywood, Michael Moore, and THE "liberal media" . . . I'm here to tell you, in 1960 there was no comparison to politics and a puppet show!
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. New Testament

EXTREME-ly Fair and Balanced

I awoke this morning to the sound of the fair and balanced news right before Dr. Bill. I truly don't think I get the first hour of Dr. Bill and I know I don't get the entire show, but he's certainly doing his best to beat the war drum in the direction of Iran. But, truthfully, I'm getting used to the pundit's agendas, so I listen in the morning and check in, in the evening, so I know what the programmed people are being programmed to think and believe. I'm not really addressing what the "good" teacher, Dr. Bill is educating his listeners to believe and think. As I listened to the headlines at the top of the hour, I was shocked to hear the word "assault" used in reference to the bill proposed by Warner and Lugar regarding Iraq. The newscaster or should I say, news commentator made mention of the "assault" on President Bush . . . 's war plan or lack thereof. As I listened to him, and to be honest, I haven't heard it since, nor could I find it in the printed reports online, but I know I heard it. I've been noticing a great deal of that type of reporting. A word used that is really not appropriate to the situation, will stick in the mind of the programmed listener and they will begin to think about it, then a "news" commentator will elaborate upon that thought and the next thing you know . . . those "dirty so-and-so's" are out to get the moral conservatives. I'm noticing that "news/talk" radio makes their own issues, then beat them to death, like some sort of martyred persecution, and the next thing you know, it is the topic of controversy in the news. It's extremism, plain and simple. These overstated verbs, excessively dramatic adjectives, and mole hill comments made into 3 hour commentary mountains, serve no other purpose than to incite extremism, and exacerbate illogical ideology.
The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going . . .
a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Wheels Go 'Round and 'Round

Our grandchildren have been visiting another week with us, and it's been delightful, but I discovered something I hadn't realized. I've been hearing a "recommendation" to use booster seats for children, on talk radio. My mother called and informed me, that in their state, there is a fine, if they don't use these booster seats for children over 4 until they are 80 pounds. She says it's a law and she's a staunch believer in tons of laws and rules, because there are just so many people. I, personally believe, we had to increase laws when the boomers became of age, because there were just too many people not quite willing to give up any control, but that's another blog . . . I want to address this big circle of vehicles, events, and laws.
For years, vehicles were huge. They were big metal tanks. I remember some without seat belts! Then, there became a "fuel shortage" or so we were told, and the Big 3 started reducing the size of our vehicles and the speed limit was reduced, and Texas quit pumping oil. When the speed limit was reduced, that made the most wonderful method for revenue. Reduced limit, increased fines! Simple math. Then some researcher realized smaller cars did not have the same safety features in the event of a collision, so . . . seat belts became an issue. When that didn't catch on right away, emissions became an issue and the big companies were fined and it was "back to the drawing board" again for them. See that word fine, again? This time, the Big 3 provided the revenue. In the midst of all this, however; we here in America ended up with imports and foreign oil. Remember the bumper stickers? That was a little better on the general public, as the foreign countries paid the tarrifs, etc., but the Big 3 began to downsize in lieu of globalization. As the vehicles were cheaply made, and became more disposable and more costly to repair, the price of insurance began to soar, which "required" legislation to make insurance mandatory. Once again, there would be a fine for operating a motor vehicle without insurance, but our insurance premium includes a fee for "uninsured motorists." Now, of course, seat belts are mandatory and so are car seats for infants and toddlers. And since seat belts are mandatory, but don't come in "one size fits all" varying booster seats have become required. Doesn't it make you wonder how so many of us reached adulthood, before all these laws? So we can now attempt to keep up with and abide by all these ever increasing laws, penalties, and road tax. When are we going to start hearing the stats about accidents with the drivers on cell phones? More legislation, more fines! Now that the Big 3 is all but bankrupt, and children are in some sort of car seat until they drive, the vehicles are back to massive but insurance must continue to rise, because these large plastic vehicles are virtually irrepairable upon impact. So, car seats are now an ongoing part of childhood, insurance is more controlling, laws are more confining, and gasoline is now figured into the cost of living for young working families, and the vehicles are huge, gas-guzzlers, once again. It's made the complete circle, and what's crazy? We're all still driving, trying to keep up with the laws and fines and the expenses of this perpetual rat race.
Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his! . . . the Prophets of Holy Scripture

Let's Talk Privatizing

I read a bit about this private prison program and even went to a promotional website. Oddly, through the website, it is presented as just another big business. It has stock value, etc. Conveniently, this company also has clients for privatized health care and mental facilities. Isn't that just grand? This came as no surprise, but Texas is just full of these "facilities." I'm going to share the link, as I don't know how much I can quote while respecting copyright and I'm not about to make any errors with this group . . . http://www.thegeogroupinc.com/index.html
Their "World Headquarters" is in Florida. I have no idea how far from the Veri-Chip group, but it's enough to rattle my cage and devote a blog to give warning. At the risk of sounding apocalyptic, it would seem that our religious right, Christian, "one nation under G~d" is doing everything within the power of it's present administration to fulfill End Time prophecy, but . . . it is America that is promoting wars and rumors of wars, imprisoning, and ID marking. I'm just wondering if all this Guantanamo "talk" is leading to the eventual privatization of that place. What a great deal. Taxpayer dollars build this prison outside of the country, in the shadow of fear of 9/11, then it gets closed, leaving a multi-million dollar facility empty. Big privatized, global, corporate America could move in, take it off the taxpayers hands, and keep it "open for business." . . . Just a thought
America insists upon being a world leader in global events. Why should the Apocalypse be an exception?
So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. New Testament

Can You See This Coming?

This article really bothers me. It just says more than I think I wanted to hear, and I'm no fan of the present administration, but it simply confirms so many of my suspicions. I have the FOXNews link, because, as everyone knows, FOXNews is fair and balanced, and we know that because FOXNews tells us that. Here is the link and a couple of quotes from the article and my comments in red and blue through the article.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,288600,00.html?sPage=fnc.world/iraq
The leader of an Al Qaeda umbrella group in Iraq threatened to wage war against Iran unless it stops supporting Shiites in Iraq within two months, according to an audiotape.

. . . The surge of American troops that was introduced in January, supposedly just now implemented a few weeks ago, to go to September "within two months" . . . Just what part does America play in this upcoming situation, and what part has the present administration already planned for?

Abu Omar al-Baghdadi, who leads the group Islamic State in Iraq , said his Sunni fighters have been preparing for four years to wage a battle against Shiite-dominated Iran.
"We are giving the Persians, and especially the rulers of Iran, a two-month period to end all kinds of support for the Iraqi Shiite government and to stop direct and indirect intervention ... otherwise a severe war is waiting for you," he said in the 50-minute audiotape released Sunday. The tape, which could not be independently verified, was posted on a Web site commonly used by insurgent groups.
Iraq's Shiite-led government is backed by the U.S. but closely allied to Iran. The United States accuses Iran of arming and financing Shiite militias in Iraq — charges Tehran denies.

If the new government is Shiite-led, then how will the Shiites have the strength to contend with the insurgents warring with Iran? And how will the Shiites manage this "war expansion," when they already can't manage to manage their own country? Will Iran be sure to only war with the Sunnis?

Al-Baghdadi criticized Kurdish leaders for their alliance with Shiites in Iraq's government and accused them encouraging unsavory morals.
"The leaders of apostasy ... have impeded the march of Islam in Muslim Kurdistan and helped communism and secularism to spread. ... They insulted the religious scholars ... encouraged vices and women without veils," he said.

Is this what Saddam was up against and maintaining, until his murder? In America, new Afghanistan, and even newer Iraq, this so called apostacy is called DEMOCRACY!
Doesn't it just seem an incredible coincidence that the prevailing political group in Iraq has the strength to rules those that would threaten Iran, but not the strength to defend their own purpose in their own country, and remain a faction of sorts? And isn't it an interesting coincidence that we in America will get some sort of progress report in September regarding the so called "surge?"
I'm wondering, by now, if "the threat" has to be fulfilled within the same two months that we will be staying the "surge" course, just where the direction will overlap and who will truly be accountable?
Will it be the Sunnis that attack Iran and then, America, the world's morality monitor will simply have to orchestrate and arbitrate that situation, also? Or if the Sunnis go to war in Iran will that end the insurgency in Iraq? Surely if the Sunni insurgents go to Iran to fight, our soldiers can come home. They'll be fighting even farther "over there . . ."
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Where Do We Go, Now That It Has "Sunk In?"

It has finally "sunk in." America is going to continue on this collision course, until it collides with an immovable and/or unsinkable object or presence. The present administration has determined that America will be a force to be reckoned with, and yet America has proven it simply operates on fear. How do we, even begin to think, we can come out of this mess as victors or as some sort of authority, when this nation is cowering at every corner and living in "fear" of the potentially imagineable? I read again in the past few days, that since the war in Afghanistan and the war in Iraq, America has not been attacked. You know what? America was not attacked between the war in Afghanistan and the war in Iraq. So, with that logic, we could safely say that America has not been attacked since we declared war on Afghanistan, Iraq was unnecessary. I say unnecessary, since all the other "axis of evil" can be dealt with diplomatically.
It has finally "sunk in." I am not going to vote. I can't believe this! I am going through some sort of withdrawal, but I am not even going to bother. I truly, in my heart of hearts, believe it is already decided and I refuse to participate in the facade and help "create" the concept that the government is by the people and for the people. I have realized, or at least, come to believe that I am simply a prop in the scenario of "free elections" and democracy.
It has finally "sunk in." This nation will continue to inprison those that are suspected of terrorism or "enemy combatant," but the definition of terrorist or combatant will continue to be broad and vague and expandedly encompassing. I read that our nation's leaders are actually debating what would happen if Guantanamo Bay were shut down . . . Would all of those prisoners be relocated to prisons in the US and then "have some sort of rights?"
We've gone over the edge and we're over the top . . .
This is a collision course that will not redirect or refocus.
So what do we do?
How do we maintain our sanity, while discerning the magnitude of the mess that has been made? How do we support the troops, while wanting to bring them home?
How do we participate in a "democracy" when we believe it is a puppet government occupying other lands?
This realization is disheartening. I truly wanted to believe that our government was on the level with us. I truly wanted to believe that our leaders simply didn't know how to protect the general public, but the fact that the present administration has no direction other than inciting fear, has raised a level of concern for me.
I am an American citizen, that truly loves the people of this nation and devoutly believes that America has been "lead astray" or "sold out," and taken Israel with us, for this enticement of perpetual motion and perpetual propaganda of fear.
as YHVH G~d of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.
Torah of Holy Scripture

"They" Are Winning, and We, the People are Losing

I don't usually beat a topic to death once it appears to have closure, but this Scooter Libby deal shouldn't have closure. I don't mean Scooter sitting in the slammer will solve it, either. By the way, I read he's paid his fine, and the judge says the way his probation was ordered, can only begin after his release, but with no time served, there is no release . . . Isn't all that just slick? I really don't think Scooter is the brains behind this plan, but what I'm really wondering about is the true solution. A man named Jeff made a comment, here in an earlier post referring to my comment about Scooter's crime not being high treason. Jeff believes that revealing the name of a CIA operative could be considered treason, but definitely a federal offense, and I agree with him, and according to some quotes, so did President Bush at one time. So, why were the federal investigators unable to find the culprit? Or how was it determined that leaking the identity of a CIA agent was not a federal offense? Some politicians want her husband blamed for this and the others want Scooter blamed, and of course; there are those that want to blame the media with their audacity to claim "freedom of press." I just don't understand why the investigation came up empty. Can our federal investigators only find people who are maybe . . ."thinking about committing a crime?" Can they not find the true criminals? Can they not solve cases when there has been an actual crime? If leaking Valerie Plame's name was not a federal offense, then Scooter's trial and all this maneuvering is just about getting the American public up in partisan arms, AGAIN! And of course, to remind us, the mere peasants, that the resident of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. has absolute, unquestionable, unaccountable authority. I have a problem with Cheney, in this deal, but suggesting he has a conflict of interest just becomes partisan, AGAIN! I think all the hoop-ti-la about illegal immigration is another game our leaders and legislators are playing on us, as well. If all the legitimate immigrants wanted to be a part of the American culture, and the illegals were "in hiding," would we be seeing and hearing so much in Spanish? I can't call anywhere without one of the first prompts telling me to press a number for English or Spanish. Our government is well aware of the illegals. It would be a very simple matter, since the high cost of health care seems to be what they claim to be protecting for the rest of us. Just put an immigration bureaucrat at every emergency room. When it becomes apparent that there is a lack of proper paperwork, the solution is simple. Treat them, and get them HOME to recuperate. This is not about illegal immigrants, it's about electronic records and surveillance of "we the people," the American citizens. It's as if the politicians themselves have all made a game that always leaves the people talking, wondering, and unrepresented, and we engage zealously in talking and speculating, without realizing we are unrepresented, by either party. I truly am beginning to take this personally. I had always considered voting to be my responsibility and privilege, but I'm beginning to feel like "they" are just making fun of us and seeing how much "they" can get away with and how much we will put up with. The next big topic, of course, will be fair talk radio! Because that will put immigration, Iraq, and Libby on a back burner, and keep the listeners up in arms, while providing the theater for the next showing of SMOKE AND MIRRORS. I just feel, everything "they" throw at us, is either already decided or simply a smoke screen. I truly wish I didn't feel this way, but I do. There will be no average American citizen ever able to raise enough funds to buy their way to the White House. Corporate Politics is now the biggest business in America, it is totally bipartisan and is financed by donations from all the big money.
If they say, Come with us . . . we shall fill our houses with spoil; Cast in thy lot among us . . .walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: from the Proverbs of Holy Scripture

Bush and Clinton

Well, the comments are atrocious from both sides. I used to say that I thought Clinton was a republican in sheep's clothing, but in reality, if republicans are for small government and less spending, then Bush doesn't qualify, either. Actually, I don't know of any politicians that really believe in "less government." How could they? How would they earn an "honest" living? If we had less government, we'd have fewer politicians. What in the world would we do with unemployed politicians? What other line of work offers such networked, high end income, exceptional benefits, and so little accountability? And what other skills do these people have? But back to these two guys and their comments about pardons and commutations. Everything that has been said "officially" is ridiculous about this situation, and Bill Clinton did the same thing when he had the power. From the stats I read, all of the presidents in the last sixty years, have granted a number of pardons. In all fairness to Bush, he has granted the fewest, but then he was that kind of Texas governor, also. Texas has certainly earned the reputation it has for crime and punishment. Bill Clinton did raise, even some liberal eyebrows with some of his pardons, but the number of his pardons and commutations, according to my source; was quite near to Ronald Reagan's numbers. I don't care to join the bashing and debate about which party is more hideous, or which man has less integrity, because frankly, I think what Mr. Bush and Mr. Clinton have both proven, is the fact that politicians simply don't feel the need to answer to the people, once the votes are counted.
I had trouble finding a Scripture to end this blog, because the word SMARMY is not contained in Scripture.
Fair words are not to be looked for from a foolish man, much less are false lips in a ruler . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Holding Doctors Accountable

I debated about whether or not I'd blog today, realizing most people won't be at their usual computer sites today, but since our religion is not NATIONALISM, it's business as usual around here. I don't want to be a hypocrite that gripes about the war and the administration, then celebrates the rocket's red glare and bursting bombs. Oh, I used to be outspoken about the fact that fireworks should not be illegal, when used in celebrating independence . . . but there are so many more issues now, and that one is a far cry from important. I do think, however; that these people that have placed their trust in their government and their allegiance to a piece of cloth, should be able to celebrate according to their faith. Now, to the real topic of the blog . . .
I told some right wing folks a few years ago, that I thought the increasing costs of medical care could be funding terrorism. I commented on the number of foreign doctors, but the right wing folks don't listen to me anyway, they think I'm a religious fanatic. I guess I need to have a talk radio program to get their attention, so I'll blog this for the group of people that receive information. I'll qualify this upfront. I do not believe in doctors, nor do I utilize their powers. Doctors are truly gods in our culture, and to that end, they are held to very little accountability. Patients can say or do the wrong thing and immediately doctors can invoke court orders, but doctors are investigated for months before any action is taken, if any ever is. How much more damage is done to how many more people, in the investigative interim? Usually patients die before a doctor is held to account. I've noticed in news headlines in the past few years, that many bizarre murders have been committed by those on some sort of medication . . . Medicated kids shooting up schools and malls. Medicated mothers killing their children. I's a frightening phenomenon that will unfortunately probably only be researched by those in the medical field. The UK has realized, just because a person has an education and wears white, doesn't necessarily make them good guys. Sadly, here in the states, an entire family has died, because a doctor assumed way too much arrogant authority. Actually, I have given thought to the Edwards campaign on the simple fact that he has held doctors to account with mal practice law suits. Perhaps it's time to realize, we the people, need to reduce our dependency upon this elite group that finds accountability incompatible with a god complex.
And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers . . .
Holy Scripture

. . . and Justice for All

I've been following the headlines about what President Bush has done for Mr. Libby. I find the commentary from the other politicians, just priceless. About four words into the quote, you can immediately tell the party of the individual. I'd really like to sit down and talk to Nancy P. She is so clearly partisan, that frankly, her point is lost. These people need to remember just 8 short years ago, their favorite fund raiser was accused and impeached for lying to a grand jury. Now, where did Nancy stand on that issue? And of course, the republicans that wanted blood from democrats, find jail too harsh for one of their own. Well, I have a few non-partisan observations that I just need to get off my chest.

The party that felt Libby should not go to jail, also believes in harsh, harsh sentences for uncommitted, but potential crimes. Most of the republican party is also in favor of the ultimate punishment for crime. Now, just a side note, in case there are any evangelicals reading this blog. Only a theocratic government that maintains the laws of Torah can morally use the death penalty. Any non-theocratic government using capital punishment is simply an arrogant group of murderous heathens. But back to this harshness of a 2 1/2 year sentence.

The democrats act like Libby had committed high treason or something. Get real, he was just covering his boss, which under the circumstances, should be held to some accountability. Libby clearly took heat for this entire administration, and they clearly let him. The democrats can be caught with money in their freezer, big money deals on inside info, and whatever else, they, as politicians can manage to get away with, just like the other side of the aisle. But, when it comes to "one of their own" they don't want any accountability or consequences, either.

In reality, every criminal case in this country in which a guilty verdict is rendered, there is someone that believes the sentence is too harsh and someone that believes the sentence is not harsh enough. And as we have also seen there are some that "should" simply get preferred treatment for a myriad of reasons. There will always be someone that thinks the present justice system has failed in some way, and it does, but it's the one that holds 300,000,000 citizens to account. If the sentences are too harsh, then change them for everyone. If someone shouldn't serve their sentence, then don't find them guilty. If there was no crime discovered, then no one obstructed justice. It gets pretty ridiculous, but I saved the most ridiculous for our leader. His quote was from the Opinion Journal of the Wall Street Journal.

"My decision to commute his prison sentence leaves in place a harsh punishment for Mr. Libby. The reputation he gained through his years of public service and professional work in the legal community is forever damaged. His wife and young children have also suffered immensely. . . . The consequences of his felony conviction on his former life as a lawyer, public servant, and private citizen will be long-lasting." I chose to print his quote in orange; a blend of republican red and non-courage yellow. If Libby does not deserve prison, then he doesn't deserve a harsh punishment. If he's guilty and the punishment is prison, then how is getting out of his sentence, harsh punishment? But you know, I can see Bush's point here. Libby is just a pawn anyway, so why not get a dig in at the dems, and remind us all of his unaccountable power at the same time. On the other hand, what does he have to lose? His faithful, think he can do no wrong, and the rest of us wouldn't have changed our opinions, regardless of what he did, so why not throw that executive power around a bit, he knows where he stands. Too bad Martha Stewart wasn't on better terms with Cheney and the White House. Or if Libby had only been sentenced to 5 months, would that have reduced the harshness enough that he would have to serve? See, we'll never know what the real deal is, but that's politics in America, and we're doing our level best to spread this around the world! I read one other quote in the Washington Post, from a former Wyoming senator:
Many letter writers expressed frustration over the Libby saga's conclusion. Former senator Alan K. Simpson (R-Wyo.) wrote that he "shall always remain eternally puzzled how the situation ever 'came to this.' Some are of the opinion that he has 'fallen upon his sword' and yet, it is my perception that the sword has fallen upon him!"

And it is my opinion and perception that he was thrust upon the sword!

He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to YHVH. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

It Just Depends

I'm having a very difficult time dealing with the inconsistencies in this present administration, especially while their die-hard constituents can do absolutely nothing but bash democrats. The republican following has no answers as to why they continue to hold fast to the inconsistent, unaccountable leadership. I realize democrats are about taxes and questionable freedoms, they always are, so whether I agree or not, they are consistent. This present administration, however; is a completely different kettle of fish. They talk about loyalty and patriotism, then sell out their own aid over some trumped up charge in a criminal investigation that never uncovered a crime . . . How many times have I heard our leader talk about the "rule of law" and then just flat, belligerently refuse to acknowledge subpoenaes, not only for himself, but for his inner circle. So, we now realize that executive privilege is above the rule of law. So, my question to all of his faithful followers would be: If we all respected the rule of law in the same manner as our leader, would we have democracy or anarchy. Since we can't all respect the rule of law in the chosen manner of our leader, do we have democracy or tyranny? I really do have to laugh as these faithful followers say the dems treat their candidates like "rock stars," while they cherish their autographed photos of the first couple. I have to agree with them, I think Obama is flash with out substance, and obviously Hillary is riding Bill's coat tails, but then an autographed photo from the White House seems like a gift from a star to a fan. Now, let's move on to his second in command, because I just have more than one issue with this man that plays second fiddle. He doesn't have to report a shooting until everyone has their details synchronized. While his party attacks gays, his daughter is "off limits," but it was okay for her to publicly campaign for him. Get real, Mr. Cheney, which way is it? And the way you choose, is it that way for everyone, or just you? What about this executive privilege for Mr. Cheney regarding subpoenaes? When he's a part of the Senate, which he is, he's legislative branch, so he can't testify because he's one of them, but when they want second in command White House information, he doesn't have to testify, because he's part of the executive branch. I'm thinking there is another term for "executive privilege," we ordinary folks call it double-dipping, hedging, skirting, side-stepping, just to name a few.

With so many situations being dependent upon who is involved, rather than simply right or wrong, it would seem American democracy can't really be based upon the "rule of law," but rather situational ethics.

The integrity of the upright shall guide them . . . a Proverb from Holy Scripture

I Just Can't Help But Wonder . . .

As I read the debt of the war, and the headlines of our own political civil war, and Supreme Court decisions, I wonder if anyone in leadership really has a vision. If someone in leadership has a vision, can they share it with us? I realize our President wants to continue to lead us in fear of terrorists . . . real and unsubstantiated. I realize Congress wants to hold the President accountable, after six years of unaccountability, but they've done nothing to stop the war or curtail the earmarks, our legislators have become famous for. We all know, there will be another "smoke and mirrors" show about this Executive Privilege and subpoenaes, but that's all it will amount to. We don't need any more laws for law abiding citizens and those that are not law abiding are already breaking the ones we do have, so we can watch this show that Congress wants to put on with the administrative branch of government, knowing, nothing will happen in either branch of government, except bluster and decisions about us, but there will be no accountability. But still this isn't what I'm wondering about today. I've made some short distance travels within the southern plains and the midwest, and I've been noticing something that I find frightening. There are big beautiful homes on rolling acres, with for sale signs in front of them. There are storefronts with SUPPORT OUR TROOPS in fading paint on the windows, while the for rent sign sits in the corner of that very same window. There are many small towns that look like "ghost towns" in an old western, and I just can't help but wonder what has happened and if it's going unnoticed. Oh, I realize suburbia is sprawling, but that's not agriculture and it's not business, it's just living large and wanting more. As suburbia expands with bank credit to general contractors, and mortgage companies on every other corner, I've noticed the payday loan places have replaced the car title loan places, and they are literally on every corner and in every strip mall. As we have become a nation of consumers, will we receive a warning before the credit cards crumble and the banks foreclose on the landlords, and the taxes to pay for the war exceed the wages and the property values? The only reprieve from the horrific tax burden will be unemployment and eminent domain.
. . . without a vision, the people perish . . . Holy Scripture

To Be Above the Rule of Law . . .

Well, the White House is refusing to turn over paperwork. Condoleezza Rice didn't need to bother with a subpoena, as she felt she'd already answered the questions adequately. The White House has said Harriet Myers won't be worrying about her subpoena, either, because of this wonderful thing called Executive Privilege. Isn't that just delightful? Now, I understand why so many are willing to beg and make fools of themselves for the "highest office" in the land. If you are fortunate enough to land this position, you obtain absolute "zero accountability!" Nobody can ask anything, and expect a straight answer. Once the address is 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., that special resident is above question, and above the law. Wow! Now who would have realized that benefit came with being a "public servant?" As I hear more and more about this "rule of law," I truly do find the irony, notable. This current administration is blatantly "in the face" of the American public, and the American public can either do nothing about it, or according to the latest poll, there are about 31% who think he is still doing a whiz bang job and deserves to be unaccountable. Now, with this, I am not suggesting for a moment that Congress is doing anything great. This is certainly no Congress of "movers and shakers;" more like whiners and agitators, but that is another blog topic. It is truly time that we realize, our present administration has only given the illusion of respecting the "rule of law." I mentioned in an earlier blog that Libby was just a patsy, and the same day I read that he has been assigned a federal prison number, the White House assumes the presumptuous liberty of "declining" a Congressional subpoena . . . Only in America!

A false balance is abomination to YHVH . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Freedom at the Feet of "Lady Liberty"

Realizing, we have just about reliquished all of our freedom to Homeland Security, does anyone wonder where it will stop? Or have we all just settled in to accept the fact, this train has gained enough momentum to not be stopped. Supposedly 12 million illegal immigrants have made their way through the southern border undetected. And we all got to read about the TB scare a couple of weeks ago, with that man making his way back into the country through the northern border, while security had already been alerted in regard to his circumstances. So, why are so many in this country just choosing to be deceived or confused as to what freedom is? I read something that our President said and was just fascinated at his concern . . .

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/
The greatest challenge facing people of conscience is to help the forces of moderation win the great struggle against extremism that is now playing out across the broader Middle East,” Bush said, citing “the rise of a group of extremists who seek to use religion as a path to power and a means of domination.”

Of course, he's not referring to the religious right of this country, but rather, as the story reads on, he is separating "peaceable Muslims" from the extremists. You'd think in all of his sorting pertaining to terrorism, he'd have been able to separate the Arab countries as well. I still don't know why he and his followers do not realize the difference between Iraq, Afghanistan and Saudi. I realize we are supposed to believe that bin Laden was in Afghanistan, but obviously that is no longer an issue in our war on terror, yet our freedoms continue to be squelched and scrutinized. I was in New York in 2004, before they "reopened" the Statue of Liberty. I didn't even bother with the "free tour" with a ferry trip of $10 or $11. Isn't that just slick how that works out with our nation's idols? They belong to we the people, but . . . I was also in Philadelphia in 2004 and got to see what was called the "ark" for the protection of the Liberty Bell. The glass glares and the casing around it is dark, so I didn't see the Liberty Bell, just the anti-terror protection. I wondered then, why so much was done to protect a piece of metal, when supposedly American lives could be in danger at all times . . . and then I thought, oh yeah, this is how "they" work. Are the "they" the terrorists or political leaders of America? You decide. Meanwhile, after August of '04, they reopened the tour of the Statue of Liberty, but this restriction from the crown, as it is called is a bit more confining and now it's supposedly only for safety issues. How convenient. According to FOXNews, an American tourist can now gain direct access to the platform on which she stands. According to the article in this link: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,286882,00.html

A staff study in the late 1990s found that it was a safety hazard to allow people to go up to the crown. In 2000, a private engineering company reached the same findings about safety issues and fire hazards, Feeney said.
The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 and designated a national monument in 1924. It was restored for its centennial on July 4, 1986. Its torch has been closed since 1916.

So, with all of that, why did it not get closed until 9/11? And what about all the "spiffing up" done through the Reagan years for the centennial of her arrival from France? It just doesn't add up, as usual. In this great land of liberty, but only after stringent security, X-rayed bags, and walk through metal detectors, you can stand at the toes of the Statue of Liberty.

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image . . .Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them . . . Ten Commandments, Holy Scripture

There Really Are People Who Do Not Want the Facts

I've had some interesting conversations of late. I am amazed at the number of Americans that are blaming our media for information, while listening to commentary and editorialized "news" to keep them "aware" of current events and world changing decisions. I am appalled that people would actually prefer that the media were quieted and are offended that talk radio is considered influential hype and bluster.

We hear so many provocative and controversial reports, what is one expected to believe? Where does one take a stand? We hear the media report horrific crimes and then give the next bad guy ideas how to avoid capture or worse, a concept for success in a life of crime. While the media reports everything they know and everything they think they know, there are unbalanced and unethical people listening to the reports. These potential social problems are presented with the pieces of the puzzle or the explanation as to how to eliminate the pieces of that same puzzle. There are many Americans that believe, in light of this fact, the factual information needs to be kept under lock and key, rather than reported, because the next weirdo or bad guy will use the information to build and get away with the perfect crime. Meanwhile, we have those that editorialize and are paid astronomical salaries to offer commentary to those just begging to be brainwashed and are perhaps already leaning towards a propensity of programming.

I think I have two issues in the news that continuously crop up and just really annoy me.

One, the mess between Israel and the Palestinians. Why are the Palestinians crying poor mouth, when Israel gave them the best of the land, being Gaza and the West Bank? The Palestinians only had to take over the land, it was handed to them on a silver platter after the Israelis built greenhouses and irrigation systems. I've seen that area. The West Bank is lush and wonderful, as is much of Gaza. So what is all this nonsense about the reports of the Palestinians starving within weeks, without aid? Can't the Palestinians maintain what was already built and established, simply to maintain themselves and their autonomy? If a "people" cannot do anything to help themselves establish or maintain their autonomy, do they deserve independent recognition? But, here in America, the political polarization would rather manufacture hype to make this a partisan issue between a former president and the present leader. Every time I hear something reported about this situation, I just feel the majority does not want their opinions altered with the facts.

My other "pet peeve" of facts involves our country itself. I don't understand the accusations from the religious right extremists against the moderates or the liberals. How can a party in our nation so despise a former president that boldly claims he has been born again, yet support a man that claims to be a Christian while making leadership decisions opposed to Scripture? And his professional personna is totally ecumenical and quite non-specific. I have another axe to grind with the religious right extremists. They continue to refer to the Clintons and Obama as "rock stars," like they have any frame of reference to begin with, but I keep in mind, they have heard this term on their talk radio. Now, how is it that the loyal followers value autographed photos of the Bushes, without realizing they have become a fan club?

I don't understand the double speak and double standard involved in the desire to eliminate information being reported, but editorials being treated as news items. I don't understand the religion that is not based upon Scripture, but claims to be of G~d. And I don't understand the desire of the extremists to be politically offended by behavior that is exhibited by both parties.

Why are Americans attempting to shield themselves from the facts?

He that is first in his own cause seemeth just . . . a Proverb from Holy Scripture

The News Just Isn't Good

The headlines today are just horrible. A married cop allegedly killed his pregnant girlfriend, and supposedly or allegedly an old friend from high school helped him hide the evidence or something. The British journalist that was taken captive by some jihadist group has been videoed, requesting that no one intercede on his behalf, and he's requesting this while wearing an explosive belt. Israel has been left alone, once again, by her "closest ally." George W. Bush is not going to participate in the negotiations. Isn't that just sweet, since he's the one that has orchestrated much of the current events of the Middle East? The Supreme Court ruled to allow the government to finance charitable religious organizations. That is just crazy, since we already know charitable organizations spend an outrageous percentage of their donations on administrative costs. Doesn't everyone know by now, if the government is involved, the government is going to be in charge? There'll be no separation of church and state, if the church chooses to be financed by the state . . . So, realizing there is not one thing, I can do about all of this, I decided there was a productive way to spend my time. I made homemade raspberry jam, canned green beans, and spent the day with my grandchildren. I've gone through a strange metamorphosis in life. When I was a kid, my mother told me how scary the world was. Well, I never found it as frightening as she portrayed it, but she's still talking about the horrors. Only now it does seem the caliber of the evil of the world is finally catching up to her evil stories. But it's as if there is an entire group of people that have made the choice to be afraid for the rest of their lives. I'm of a different ilk. If someone has more power than I do and they are out to get me, as the current administration and his followers believe, then I say live life to the fullest while I can. I'm not talking partying or whatever, I'm simply saying, if attacks and death are inevitable for all of us and it is out of our control, then what should I do? Value every minute that G~d gives me, with the people I love and accomplishing the the things I love to do. So, if I only have today left, before some arch nemesis wipes me out, then G~d already knows that and I'm glad my grandchildren have had homemade ice cream, fresh raspberry jam, and gotten to hear the sound of the canning jar seal. And if we still have more days in the wake of the fear mongering, then my grandchildren may get to learn more of the simple things that G~d has allowed. Knowing now, that our government can only protect us by scaring us, I feel that I have special insight into the survival techniques, since that was also the technique used in my childhood. I hope my grandchildren get to grow up knowing there are little oases of peace here and there, and I hope they are getting to learn from me, how to appreciate peace and the value of simplicity.

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Let's Talk Cost vs. Price

The price of gasoline has actually gone down since the beginning of summer. I, for one, am surprised. I keep hearing all about this ethanol plan, and to be honest, when I first began hearing about it, it sounded as if it may have promise, but then I did some more listening and some more checking and I believe ethanol promises to be an expensive, inadequate non-solution. First, I noticed that many of the farmers are actually investing in this ethanol production. So, they are taking the chance with the corn crop, doing the work, then financing the refining. This sounds like the short cut to bankruptcy for the few farmers that are left, or maybe the banks will be more compassionate than they have been throughout history. There is another interesting fact about this ethanol. Cows eat corn, and ethanol is made from corn, so while ethanol is being introduced at the pumps, milk is going up and meat is going up. We raise our own meat and dairy, so I don't deal with the prices too much, but the other day I did happen to notice that a steak was priced at $12 something a pound! Milk is over $3.00 a gallon and the pro-ethanol people either aren't listening or don't have to worry about increased cost of luxuries like milk. I was talking to my mom about the price of beef and mentioned that chuck roast was over $3.00 a pound. She, being a very staunch Bush supporter informed me that I could get three meals out of a chuck roast. You know, I could get three meals out of a chuck roast when it was still a cheap cut of meat under $2.00 a pound. The quality of the cut of a chuck roast has not improved, but the cost of feeding and moving that critter has greatly increased. I haven't checked the price of beer and whiskey, but if those prices get affected, then what? Oh, maybe the conservatives can just bring back prohibition and use all the corn for their SUVs. I already mentioned that the price of livestock feed has increased and according to the big sign at our MFA, we have to give our name and address when we buy grain because of some part of the Patriot Act. I'll tell you why the keepers of the Patriot Act need the names of those buying grain. This has nothing to do with protecting us from terrorists or home made bombs. If it had to do with home made explosives, they'd want our names when we buy fertilizer . . . They want to keep track of who is not dependant upon the governmental whims and provision. Do you think for a minute, having my name in the data base for grain purchases is going to change any of the global war on terror? If you do, well that's just sad. I realize some conservative radio talk show host is going to come up with some stats that inform us that milk and meat have always been a certain percentage more expensive than gasoline, so somehow they can make their listening audience support this nonsense. But back to ethanol. Making ethanol is no simple procedure. I have read that it actually takes more fuel to produce it, than is produced. Consider, you have to plant corn, that takes a tractor burning fuel. And it took a tractor burning fuel to prepare the field for planting. Then the crop must be tended, which also requires a tractor, still burning fuel, before any is produced. When the crop is harvested, once again, fuel is required for the machinery. And after all of that, it's still corn. The processing and refining hasn't even begun. Besides all that, we are looking at a growing season, from the seeds to the harvest, and hoping for weather to produce a good crop. This ethanol business is not nearly as easy as just declaring war on an oil rich nation. If we really begin to aim for ethanol on a full scale fuel supply, we will literally be burning cattle feed to drive our SUVs and huge trucks. And I wonder why. . . Does our country really need so many people driving SUVs, talking on a cell phone or huge vehicles with just the driver and no passengers? But, of course we need the "bigger is better" vehicles to display our political b/s. ( that's bumper stickers)

A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny;

and see thou hurt not the oil . . . the Revelation

Candidate Update

I promised updates regarding my questions for the candidates. So far to date, I have received 10 emails from the Obama campaign. Although, my inbox indicates they have different senders, including two with his name, there are two things in common: A statement that says Mr. Obama would like to hear comments and a button with the word DONATE. There was also some sort of dinner raffle for four people who donated. I'm using the word "raffle," the Obama camp didn't. And now they have been selected and I will get to "hear" how dinner goes. Edwards is a bit different, as I really like his way of asking for money in the last e-mail. He doesn't ask for huge dollar amounts or even what I'd like to send. He's got this great plan for asking for a modest amount and always mentions it's not how much, but how many. "small change will bring big change" Now isn't that just catchy? I've received 9 e-mails from the Edwards camp. Some from campaigners, one from his mom, one from his wife, and there are even two that have his name on the sender line. And John gives more choices that Barrack. John has three options at the end of his messages. I can join the campaign, make a donation, or spread the word. Since it costs so much to be a president, it seems the best "beggar" will be the one that becomes our nation's leader. I've only received the one response from the Rodham-Clinton camp, but I have noticed in the headlines that Bill is joining the campaign. If she's elected, I just don't look for him to have as much power as she did in his administration, but I could be wrong. At any rate, I'd like to think my question played a part in Bill's participation. Because as all of the candidates continue to explain: We each have a part in this country's direction for 2008!

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but YHVH pondereth the hearts.

So Much Confusion

I, like most Americans, have been reading and hearing about events in the Middle East. I'm amazed at the number of Americans that truly believe all Muslims are trying to wipe out their Western "Christian" culture. If that is truly the case, then why did America invade Iraq and support the murder of Saddam Hussein for killing 100,000 Muslims? Confusion . . . Why is George Bush more popular amongst the religious right than Jimmy Carter. Everyone says Jimmy Carter was the most honest president of recent history and he claimed to be born again. George W. Bush referred to "Jesus" once in an interview and called him a philosopher. So what happened with that? Does Christianity now embrace their Jesus to offer great philosophy, rather than the opportunity to be born again? More Confusion . . . And how is it that Hamas and Hezbollah were on the American terrorist list, then became political parties in "fledgling democracies" that America is funding and supporting? Why has America not offered military support to Israel in dealing with these terrorist organizations when it is America that has declared war on terror? Confusing, isn't it? Now that Abbas is calling Hamas a terrorist organization, will America resume the stand they claimed in 2001? How do we know this isn't just a trick to surround Israel through supposed "political division" in Gaza and the West Bank and gain American funding? We don't, we have no idea what the real situation is with this so called Roadmap to Peace, authored by the President of America. Can confusion be a "theme?" A new cabinet post called Homeland Security has become part of our government in this administration and I can find no rhyme or reason as to how this department or bureaucracy functions . . . it is nothing but confusion. While the Middle East is debated and the 2008 presidential campaign has begun a year and a half early, and we are supposedly keeping problems off of American soil, our president wants to offer amnesty for those that are not citizens and here in Missouri, if a person already has a driver's license, a birth certificate or a passport is required to renew their license. Yet, our senator has told us, we are still protected from a National ID. So, are the politicians confused or just trying to keep the constituents that way?

For G~d is not the author of confusion, but of peace . . . New Testament

Is Three Branches of Government Really A Balance?

I just hate the fact that this question keeps coming to my mind. When the talk radio and republican extremists are continuously trashing members of Congress, I don't like asking myself why we need a body of government making MORE LAWS. I don't have anything personally against any of the members of Congress. My state Congressman doesn't represent my views, but that isn't why I'm questioning the value of his job. My concern is this. Congress is supposed to be the legislative branch of our three branch system of government. I'm sure some religious person can tell you that this "three" branch is of course in the image of a Trinity, which by the way, the word Trinity isn't any more Bible based than our Constitution. Now, back to Congress. Historically, since the end of WWII, if Congress and the President were not of the same party, nothing happened. We had it in the Truman days, the Reagan days, the Clinton days, and now, once again, these present sad days. This current Congress is going to cost the tax-payers a fortune. The only thing the current administration will not veto is exorbitant spending on his agenda. And that's not really my concern, either, as there is nothing I can do about it. My concern is this. This third branch of the government isn't balancing the executive branch or the judicial branch, but they are spending money we tax payers haven't yet earned, and they are passing bills right and left to be made into law for whom? The law abiding citizens of this country? How many more laws do the law-abiders need? The law abiding citizens are already burdened and those that aren't law abiding aren't going to worry about it, they already don't. Why can't Congress be used like Internal Affairs in the Police Department? They want to hold all those in the opposite party in some sort of contempt. Why not make that Congress's new reason to be? We don't need any more legislation and the budget is a joke. We, the people do not need any more laws and we, the people don't have any more money. The people who are not law abiding already have enough laws to break, don't they? I'm afraid I see the sham in this situation. The right extremists have a point, although I don't agree with their reasoning for it, Congress is really a non-essential, impotent part of our government, now. Unless Congress gives the President the bill he wants, he vetos. If Congress makes more laws about security, it is only the law-abiding American citizens that will be affected. And the third branch; judicial. Although the right extremists claim that they don't want judges making laws from the bench, that is what they expect of the Supreme Court, on their pet issues. And technically, the Supreme Court is only an extention of the Executive branch, anyway; since it is an appointed position. Actually, since it is appointed and for life, the Justices wield much unelected power over, we, the people, for quite a while. Some of these judges in history have been on the bench for a quarter of a century. And somebody that really wants long term control has realized, young judges appointed for life keeps the "Supreme" decisions leaning the direction of choice, regardless of what Congress tries to implement, and the party of the next elected resident of the White House.

The law of YHVH is perfect . . . Holy Scripture

Solution on the Horizon??????????

After all these months and years of struggle, I think the Palestinians have come up with their own solution. It's interesting that America has served to be such a hurdle in this, but it looks like they are coming around to their own resolution. First, we have a few American issues to consider, right before we back away and mind our own business. If we are not going to support Israel directly and honestly, then we need to quit pretending to be their friend, as we pressure Israel to eliminate themselves off the map, while huffing and puffing about Iran saying that is their goal. Obviously that is the goal of the RoapMap to Peace.

I have to admit, I was hoping Arafat would be removed from the picture and the world could see who was actually responsible for this Middle East mess. Remember, it was the US that acknowledge Arafat as some sort of leader to begin with. Then America pushed for free elections and the Palestinian people elected a terrorist group, to which immediately, we in America responded with distance. After shooting off our mouths, we claimed to be too busy to be a military ally for Israel simply leaving Israel to fend for themselves and we implemented sanctions against Hamas, leaving the Palestinians to starve. I just heard a quote from Dr. Rice on the news, saying that now we can lift the sanctions and help those Palestinians in the West Bank that are loyal to the Fatah /Abbas government, and she once again is referring to Hamas as a terrorist organization. Not to split hairs, but technically, it is her boss that made Hamas a political party, and since there is now a division, all those that are loyal to Abbas are rebels against the election, but that is another issue . . . She had said something awhile back that caught my attention. Once America pressured Israel to give up Gaza and the West Bank to the Palestinians, she then announced that Gaza and the West Bank must be contiguous. Look at a map, that political maneuver called for Israel to give up much more land to connect the two. Well, Hamas and Fatah have solved Dr. Rice's demand, after the fact. We can have an East and West Palestine. How long did the world have an East and West Germany, after WWII? Since Scripture already states that the descendants of Ishmael will fight even amongst themselves, we can all rest easier, knowing that Hamas has Gaza, courtesy of the Roadmap to Peace, and Abbas/Fatah has the West Bank, and the whole world now knows, they can't get along, even when Israel accomodates them. And it is not Arafat that is making the demand for land and a country, but rather it is the "ally" of Israel, the USA. So, problem solved! Let Hamas, the terrorist organization that they are, have the gift of Gaza and allow Abbas to govern the West Bank, whom Israel is now willing to deal with. The reality in this situation is: Arafat did not cause this, America did! Hamas is still a terrorist organization, although they were elected, at the whim of America, and Fatah/Abbas is the rebel presence for the Palestinian government with the blessing of America.

all the nations together to make war against Jerusalem; Then YHVH will go out and make war against those nations . . . Holy Scripture

When Will "Rule of Law" Make Sense?

There were three things in the news this week that really concern me, as a non-republican, non-captialist American, and I don't know if these subjects have any correlation yet or not. I realize that description alone, is cause to question my patriotism and probably my mental stability, as well. The first thing that concerns me is this Scooter Libby deal. I mean he's a more obvious patsy than Lee Harvey Oswald was, and as usual Americans just sit there with their heads rattling about it being partisan. No, it isn't partisan, it's a red herring from the government thrown at the law abiding citizens for two reasons. One, to let us peons know, that "nobody is above the law," which is completely laughable under the circumstances, and two, to distract the easily distracted while "other matters" are either implemented or legislated. If Americans are divided on an emotional or political issue, they just seem more ready and willing to buy more of the nonsense being perpetrated through this administration. Back to Libby, basically in an investigation that produced no charges, he's been charged and found guilty for obstructing justice and lying to investigators . . . If there were no charges to accomplish justice, what did he obstruct? If we really are going to send politicians to jail for lying, Washington DC will become a ghost town. And what's the big rush about sending him to jail while he attmepts an appeal? I am personally aware of more than one case in which a person has been found guilty of harming another person, and they are all free on their perspective bonds awaiting appeals. I just don't get it, but I know there is more to the story . . .
Dennis Miller made an interesting remark in his program yesterday, or whenever. We don't actually get any live radio programs, just the illusion that we are hearing things as they happen and commentary is welcome. Rebroadcasts just don't have that same interactive quality or in my case interest, but he commented about his disapproval of the President's handling of illegal immigration and said something to the effect of, what's he trying to do? have a North American Union, like Europe or something . . . that's not a direct quote, but the gist of the comment. Well, I remember when Terri Schiavo's situation was all that was covered in the national news. Remember when our President, our hero, disrupted his vacation at the ranch to go back and sign some useless law at 1:00 in the morning to save Terri. Well, he didn't get that done either, but two days later he met with Martin and Fox about something called SSP. I invite you to go to www.whitehouse.gov and type SSP into the search. Read it, I think that will answer Mr. Miller's question.
And last, but certainly not least, there is a new bill that Schumer (D) and the NRA are both in agreement about, since the tragedy at Virginia Tech. Once again, our government is using a very emotionally charged trauma to introduce frightening legislation. This interesting little piece of legislation is really not about guns, but rather about the central information center, and citizen control. The term "mentally defective" is used in the wording. My concern and I have had first hand experience with capitalists, "compassionate conservatives," and high living, so-called compassionate liberals, who don't think I think right, and you know what, they sound alike; flat mean. I have had horrendous comments made to me regarding my not so stable years, and the accountability demands are subjugating. I like to think a less stable person than myself, like the inquisitor, might have a stronger reaction to such insipid interrogation. I have it easy, I can let the answering machine pick up and use a junk filter on my e-mail, as a matter of fact, I don't have to keep a telephone or the internet, but what happens to people who are still trying to be part of this corporate, capitalistic, society and remain free thinkers. I realize they are few and far between, but there are still a few of us. That young man that shot those students had a problem that everyone overlooked, and they did know about it. So how many people will be falsely accused of having a problem that doesn't exist, simply because they have a different perspective or beliefs? The fact that this legislation will pass truly concerns me, because someone will be making the arbitrary calls as to who is defective and who is not? Obviously party lines make no difference,but I wonder just how the criteria and standard will be determined for what is considered mentally defective?
Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad . . . - Holy Scripture

So Where Do Babies Come From?

My daughter is waiting for her kids to ask that question. According to what I read today, it would seem many of them come from a petri dish in a fertility clinic. I have had an axe to grind with doctors for years, but it's now come down to the very basics of life. Years ago, I planned to become a physician and revolutionize American medicine, but I don't believe in the powers of medicine, and doctors do have power, but it isn't G~d given. Oh, I tried the allopathic route, by choice, for a few years and it nearly killed me. And of course, I, like most of the boomers grew up knowing that doctors "knew" so much more than anybody, which is why everyone aspired to be one, or was encouraged to aspire to be one. My grandchildren were born in a hospital, and when there was a complication, the "experts" very quickly passed the responsibility off, everywhere they could, and I became the religious grandma that just didn't understand. Even to the point, my mother told me I better not say anything to offend the "doctors" they'd have security on me. Well, I didn't bow down then, and I don't now. But back to this basic beginning of life. For thousands of years, women have had babies, because that was the Creator's design. Giving birth was not a medical procedure, it was reproducing the species. I did a bit of checking. Seventy years ago, only 37% of women gave birth in a hospital. My dad was born at home and he isn't yet 70, nor was he from a backward, uneducated people. It was just that birth was simply a fact of life, not a medical condition. Pregnancy isn't a disease, so how did it become so medical? And now, since doctors have become involved, they have taken the power to determine that embryos can be removed from the womb or made in a petri dish and placed in a womb. In less than a single century, these power mongers have changed what women have been doing for centuries and "overridden" the design of our Creator. They have presumed to have power over life. As I was researching this insane phenomenon, I happened on to something quite interesting. In the beginning of the 20th Century, physicians were using something they called "twilight sleep" and promising painless childbirth. Well, that was all it took for women to put their trust in doctors, rather than G~d, their maker. The same thing the serpent told Eve in the Garden of Eden, was repeated thousands of years later. The doctors promised women that same slimy promise. What G~d had spoken, would be irrelevant if they just trusted "modern medicine." Interestingly, to this day, I don't know any women who claim to have experienced painless childbirth, yet. As a matter of fact, I don't know any woman that doesn't have a delivery woe to tell about, well, with the exception of my Grandma, who gave birth at home. She never did cater to the notion of doctors being more powerful than G~d. As our timeline continues, by 1950, 88% of women gave birth in hospitals, and doctors were by then, the child experts. I personally think, that explains the drug era of the 60's and 70's, and the so-called disrespect that the older generation claimed was shown by the boomers, but what do I know, I'm not a doctor! It was our parents that taught us, drugs made you feel better, and babies came from doctors and hospitals. So, as doctors continue to charge outrageous fees to defy the laws of nature, where will this go from here? I laughed when I actually heard people talking about scheduling the births of their children. That's right, there are people in the country, so brainwashed or stupid, that they think babies won't come unless a doctor intervenes. They must think that, or they would protect the unborn from unnecessary intervention. As a matter of fact, I read, when the doctors first got involved in childbirth, the mortality rate actually increased from excessive intervening procedures. And here they are, 70 years later, attempting to intervene further. I am personally of the opinion, since G~d spoke the punishment to Eve regarding childbirth; not medicine, but Messiah holds the key for painfree childbirth.
Unto the woman He said, . . . in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children . . . Torah
Messiah hath redeemed us from the curse of the law . . . New Testament

My Opinion for the Opinion Journal

I have been sure to share the link for what the Opinion Journal calls "Today's Featured Article." As I read it, it just seemed to be an outrageous slap in the face to every American. http://www.opinionjournal.com/editorial/feature.html?id=110010203

Our Common Struggle America had its civil war. Why expect freedom to come easy to Iraq?
BY NOURI AL-MALIKI
I have included a few highlights of the article, with my own comments in red.

BAGHDAD, Iraq--Americans keen to understand the ongoing struggle for a new Iraq can be guided by the example of their own history. In the 1860s, your country fought a great struggle of its own, a civil war that took hundreds of thousands of lives but ended in the triumph of freedom and the birth of a great power.
Yes, Mr. Maliki, we did have a civil war here, and it was Americans that fought in it, without dependence upon other countries and certainly without two month summer sabaticals and without billions of dollars from other nation's tax payers. I would concur that there is, however; a parallel to be drawn and that would be; it is Americans that have died in both our civil war and yours.

Our struggle in Iraq is similar to the great American quest, and is perhaps even more complicated. As your country was fighting that great contest over its unity and future, Iraq was a province of an Ottoman empire steeped in backwardness and ignorance. A half a century later, the British began an occupation of Iraq and drew the borders of contemporary Iraq as we know them today. Independence brought no relief to the people of our land. They were not given the means of political expression, nor were they to know political arrangements that respected their varied communities.
Mr. Maliki, with all due respect, a country that is deserving of independence and relief for the people doesn't wait for someone else to win it, and give them means of expression. And since you mention it, Iraq has been around for thousands of years, and this is the most your country has managed, yet?

It is perhaps true that only people who are denied the gift of liberty can truly appreciate its full meaning and bounty. I look with admiration at the American debate surrounding the Iraq war . . .
I'm sure many around the world are "looking with admiration" as to what this Iraq war has done to divide America. And let's talk appreciation, full meaning and bounty. I've read some of your other comments regarding America's suggestions to you as to how you could move things along, and you don't sound the least bit appreciative of this gift of liberty, when referring to the suggestions of your "liberators." I'll address your reference to bounty in my next comment. You have claimed enough power to exact executions and design "infrastructures." Your government has drawn up a constitution and as you mentioned, left place for amendments, which to me just says, you can have all the power you want, as your leaders choose to lead, so . . . What's new about that plan?

Iraq is well on its way to passing a new oil law that would divide the national treasure among our provinces and cities . . .
Ah, the bounty! Well, our national treasury is empty because you cannot lead your country, when this opportunity has truly been handed to you on a silver platter at no cost to yourself or those that are presently in power.

Our message has been the same to one and all: We will not permit Iraq to be a battleground for other powers. In the contests and ambitions swirling around Iraq, we are neutral and dedicated to our country's right to prosperity and a new life, inspired by a memory of a time when Baghdad was--as Washington is today--a beacon of enlightenment on which others gazed with admiration. We have come to believe, as Americans who founded your country once believed, that freedom is a precious inheritance. It is never cheap but the price is worth paying if we are to rescue our country.
Mr. Al-Maliki, my message to you would be. If you can make this sort of a powerful statement, and you claim to be able to enforce it, then it needs to begin at home! Because of our situation in your country, we don't have the luxury to be neutral, so we're so glad you now have the freedom to send a message to our land. Why don't you get the message to your own people and tell them how valuable this gift of liberty is, because we in America did have to fight for it ourselves, and we had to fight our own civil war, and now, we are losing our freedoms, so you can enjoy yours. What in the world would you know about a price worth paying? You know, good and well, according to the Geneva Convention and the UN that we have to leave your country in as good a shape as Mr. Hussein had it, and you know your country is no where close to that, and can't maintain it under the present leadership. As long as the civil war continues, we can't get it rebuilt. Just how many thousands of years has your country been declining to the state in which it is? We managed a revolutionary war and a civil war in less than a hundred years, and rebuilt ourselves. Our allies chose to aid us, they didn't have to fight the battle and hand us freedom.
I also have an observation which differs from your perspective, regarding your country and what you say your country is striving for. You and I both know, you and the American president cannot bring resolution to this war.
Thank you so much for your time and attention in this matter, Mr. Al-Maliki.
And the angel of YHVH said unto her, Behold, thou art with child and shalt bear a son, and shalt call his name Ishmael . . . And he will be a wild man, his hand will be against every man . . . - Torah

What Happens When . . .

What does happen when we see reality? When we see the correlation between the euphemisms of current events and historical atrocities? When we realize, we just don't believe those in government any more? It used to be, our government officials had actual productive, contributing careers, which they set aside or placed on hold for a few years of public service, then went back to being productive members of this country. Now, we have government officials that have only been politicians or worse yet, bad businessmen. And when they are through "serving," they make speeches for an outrageous fee. I have officially arrived at the conclusion that the politicians are going to take care of themselves and each other; and their so called constituents are going to live out the decisions that are made for the best interest of the "representatives." Free elections will not guarantee that the people are heard, much less, ever ensure self governing. Eminent domain is just the 21st Century term for Russia's expulsion edict, in the early 20th century. Free speech will not be taken by force, it will be given up in the name of tolerance. The majority of women that are absolutely pro-life, think childhood boundaries should be as confining as a womb. I told my daughter about "stranger danger," only we didn't have catchy little buzz phrases then, we simply explained that there were some bad people out there. But I didn't tell her about that, to make an excuse to confine her, I taught her about that to make her aware, as her freedom grew. I'm sick to death of hearing how afraid we are supposed to be of everything, as our officials are wanting to grant amnesty to at least 12 million unknown, untraced individuals already here, while my freedom is getting locked down. It doesn't fly! And speaking of "doesn't fly," I'm sick of the bird flu scare tactics, also. I don't believe that either, and if it does happen, I don't believe it will be by chance. Al Sharpton is in an uproar over Paris Hilton because her sentence has been too easy on her. Where was he when Mel Gibson was stopped drunk, again, making outrageous anti-Semitic remarks, and didn't have to go to jail? So, not only should we eliminate every comment from public conversation that could carry some sort of potential racial acknowledgment, but only against certain groups. . . and rich, spoiled white girls and cranky old white guys should be singled out for harsher treatment than anyone else. Sorry Don . . . Dick Cheney has publicly commented that even if the "bad intelligence" that was supposedly the reason America invaded Iraq was known to be bad at the time, he would still be for the invasion. Well, that makes me pretty sure someone already knew at the time, it was bogus info. I'm still getting e-mails from the Edwards camp and the Obama camp, but never have I received any hint of an answer to my question. Although, every time Obama asks for support and my time to volunteer, his messages do continuously tell me how different he is and what a fresh direction he is for politics. So, now I sit here blogging my heart out, knowing the only difference I can make is to sound an alarm. I am not represented in Washington, I don't believe my vote makes any difference, I know this war has no end, neither basis for a beginning, and I simply no longer believe any of the people in leadership, and yet I am a law abiding American. Law abiding by conscious choice, American simply by birth.
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. Holy Scripture

Tolerance Education, the Removal of Free Speech

I listened yesterday to some interview with Colin Powell. Although he was giving direct, sidestepping answers regarding his days as Secretary of State and the Iraq War, he gave some valuable insight into the real agenda of this administration. I've discussed this before, but Colin Powell was quite clear. They want to reach the young people and shape the direction of the thinking. And if you don't think they are doing a good job, just look around. The die hard, cranky at Bush, "young dems or independents" are the up and coming corporate capitalists. This administration is good . . . He's got the young adults that don't support him and wouldn't think of voting for him, living exactly according to his agenda and striving for what his party stands for. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the next generation is being programmed. As I mentioned, earlier, spring break has nothing to do with Passover or Easter, but the final hour of school that Friday before, is a patriotic extravaganza. So, if I were a child, I would think the vacation pertained to what we were singing about. To further enhance my perspective, our granddaughter is visiting with us, solo. That means her twin sister and little brother went home with mom and she stayed on, for another week and the conversations have been absolutely illuminating! As I was fixing dinner, she informed me that they were not allowed to talk about G~d at school. I asked her if that rule was announced, or how she came to be aware of it. She told me that she had been told by Ms. B_____, at Adventure Club, when she was showing the other kids her new coloring book, published by her grandparents. This statement from her immediately led me to two thoughts in my own head. One, Dr. Powell's comments yesterday about how many extra programs there are for kids now, like after school, etc. And two, back to my own days in school. I had a science teacher that was a proclaimed agnostic that allowed me to discuss creation while the text book presented the theory of evolution, and I remember my Junior High School principal who suggested that I draw the line between personal beliefs and school discussions. Interestingly, the principal was a deacon at the Baptist Church. So, what does it all boil down to? I'm thinking, if the generations are just programmed to give up their free speech and freedom of religion, then nobody is taking their rights away from them . . . and if they are taught to be willingly silenced, it is of course, called tolerance.
But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of G~d to hearken unto you more than unto G~d, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. - the book of Acts, New Testament