Pro-Life or Anti-Choice?

Why is it? The people that are pro-life seem to refuse anyone any choices. It's like you cannot disagree with them about anything! I've not had positive commentary on Barack Obama, but I must take this opportunity to mention the fact that he said "Families of candidates are off limits. Children especially, are off limits!" Now, he's not saying anything and Sarah Palin just keeps using her kids for props and calling attention to Bristol's situation. So, the opponent isn't addressing the topic of her kids, but she's going to use them. Oh, well, they're her kids! I'm sure the conservative base will rally around what a great supportive mother she is. Wow! I remember when I was a teenager and my republican parents found out they were going to be grandparents! The republican party has come a long way, one might use the term; progressive! I had watched some women use babies and pregnancy to trap and control a man and I had no intentions of using a baby to trap some guy, so I was by definition, not doing the right thing. I've still not figured out, all these years later, how a shotgun wedding makes atonement for fornication. But then, in reading all the bio and seeing all the pictures, I can now see that some people can use a baby to influence and control, more than just a trapped man, and more than just her own baby! This pro-life candidate now seems to have two babies to work with to garner control, and still come across as a stoic, martyr. She is quite a woman. I see her kids in the pictures and I think of that little handicapped baby. If we saw a little baby being dragged around Wal-Mart at 10:00 at night, we'd comment about what's wrong with the mother's judgment, but this little guy can get dragged through the noisy crowd til almost midnight and that just makes her more beloved.
More in the life of Sarah, and we know just how pro she is on that topic. I read something today that the media is smearing her. You know, TV isn't doing any more against her than talk radio has done against Hillary and Obama. TV wasn't even nice to Hillary. As far as magazines . . . Sarah do your homework before you smile for the camera and give an interview. If the editor is a staunch democrat, what do you expect? Tell your loyal fans to quit sniveling. Do you think Obama would expect a great write up in an NRA magazine? The conservative religious right needs to remember G~D didn't separate life and choice, he put them together! My personal opinion is that Sarah Palin is very pro-life for Sarah Palin, and all those around her, have no choice.
therefore choose life, that both you and your children may live: Torah of Holy Scripture

Balanced Insanity!

Well, the politics are getting interesting, or really I guess, entertaining; is a much better word. Unfortunately, it is real people involved and they are living real lives with no commercial breaks from their sponsors. I'm going to leave the children out of this because I just think the Palin kids have enough to deal with from their Pro-Life mom, who seems to sacrifice them when convenient and uses them as props for photo-ops. I'm going to address the things I've noticed on both tickets. First, let's consider the fact that when given a choice in the party, the country doesn't want either Biden or McCain. So we have two old political warhorses that nobody wants in the White House, if we have our "druthers." Next we have two relatively obscure newcomers, each bringing their own special tokenness to this political hoopti-la. If we look to the left, we will see that we have a freshman Senator that just happens to be a black man, that comes across as some sort of rockstar messiah, married to a very outspoken strong wife who happens to be quite connected in the corporate world, on leave of absence to campaign for her man. And now, if you'll move your view to the right, we find that we have a woman governor in the Yukon, that's been in local politics for nearly 20 years, with a son on his way to Iraq, a brand new baby, and a grandbaby on the way. And if that weren't enough, you talk about a strong woman, she hunts caribou. Her husband is supposed to be a union man, who is also on an extended leave of absence, to be Mr. Mom, so she can campaign for VP and maintain the highest executive office in the largest state in the union.
One of the great points in this balance of insanity seems to be the fact that most people who are discussing their choice of candidates have primarily based their decision, not on the best candidate, but against who they perceive to be the worst. So, the choice appears to be truly balanced. Rockstar-siah with Old guy or Old guy with Wonder woman . . .
Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Matters Closer to "Home"

Two political biggies in the headlines today. Barack Obama is giving his “I promise change speech.” Of course, this happens to be the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech, “I have a dream.” As I’ve noticed for some time, and it really has been an exceedingly lengthy campaign, Obama is telling us we need change and all along he’s been telling us how much work we are going to have to do to bring about this change. I’m thinking when he becomes president, he’s going to expect the American people to be much more diligent at our work and taxes than he was in attendance in the Senate . . .
I also read that the Republican Convention may have to be postponed due to the possible return of hurricane Gustav. If the hurricane causes the convention timing to change, I’d have to mention something about “an act of G-D.” I mean, wasn’t Katrina warning or judgment on New Orleans?
Now that we’ve got the political spectrum covered from both sides of aisle, I want to talk about toilet paper. Feel free to draw your own conclusions.
My husband and I went to town yesterday and I once again suffered sticker shock. Three years ago, we could go to town, buy the feed for the animals, stop at the store and get the items we don’t raise ourselves, such as paper products, coffee, etc., all for about $100.00. Now those same items for the same time frame has nearly doubled.
I always check the “necessary items” aisles for sales. Things like flour, cleaning supplies, and toilet paper; and if there’s a sale, I stock up. As I was wandering down the paper products aisle, I couldn’t help but notice all the new packaging for toilet paper. There are the standard 24 roll packages and there are still the 4 packs. But there are 9 packs that are triple rolls, 12 packs that are double rolls, 8 packs that contain as much as 12 rolls, 6 rolls that contain as much as 18. As I stood there just looking and commenting, as to how anyone would truly arrive at the best deal, I told my husband I just didn’t take enough math in college to buy toilet paper.
Clearly, there is no standard in politics, a 3 pound coffee can now contains 34 oz., the gold standard is ancient history, we tossed the silver standard, and now there is no standard roll of toilet paper.
Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to YHVH. A Proverb of Holy Scripture

They've Certainly Come Along Way!

I'm finding this year's DNC to be interesting. I'm sure the GOP convention will also reflect the state of America. I will give it adequate coverage when the time comes, but now is the time for the Democratic National Convention and it's easy to see "things are changing!" Hard to believe just four short years ago, State Senator Barack Obama stood behind the podium as the Key Note Speaker for the convention, and now voila! he's just a few votes away from the Oval Office. Only in America! Is Obama proof that we still need to be telling our children, "This is a great country. Why anyone can grow up to be the President!" Well, anyone that can raise millions and millions of dollars from people that are much poorer, less educated, and struggling to make ends meet in their two income household. Most of the people that have contributed to this man's campaign millions certainly don't live like he does.
"So children, if you can charm a dollar out of someone working for minimum wage and convince him that you relate to his challenges, then you too, can grow up to be President of this great land."
And as for Obama's statement awhile back "leave his wife out of this . . ." Then this woman who is going to be the main speaker this evening needs to keep her mouth shut, smile and wave. If she's going make political comments, then the media and the opposition are entitled to repeat it, chew on it, take it in or out of context, and basically run with it, just like they do any other person that is using a political platform to be heard.
Clearly the Obamas are comfortable with preferential treatment and don't mind demanding it when they think it's absent, for them. I noted Michelle Obama's comment early on about "first time she was proud of her country . . ." I'm not very proud of a number of the things my country is doing and standing for right now, but then I'm just preaching and blogging, I'm not asking anyone to make a way for me to live at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
I've heard Obama compared to Messiah, a rock star, and President Kennedy. Frankly, I can't see any of those comparisons, but I do see those responses in his followers. If only the Obamas really stood for change, or even Camelot, but Camelot was merely a mythical "might have been" and every American politician expects special treatment and truly believe they are deserving of it.
The only change I perceive is the slight of hand in the political puppet theater, behind the scenes.
Whether it's the mega-church promising faith based prosperity or the rock star politicians promising hope and change, the rich and comfortable seem to always be supported and attain their stature by the hard earned money of the poor.
For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment . . . New Testament

Maverick, Indeed

I'm getting more and more fascinated by this republican candidate, John McCain. I don't agree with all of his politics, but I really like his style. He's moved from a very defensive campaign to quite a strategy. While Obama is calling him, 'out of touch,' he's reminding us just how unfamiliar Obama is with the American way of life, for the average person. McCain says, "Yeah, I'm a career politician with a rich wife!" Obama, on the other hand is living in his mansion, with his multi-million dollar income and he wants to come across like he's just a regular guy! Please, McCain wins that one hands down! We know politicians are not in touch with the real people.
The next deal with McCain is his openness to admit he's not the favored of the republicans, but he got the most votes and that's just the fact of life.
McCain is also taking some heat for having Joe Lieberman at every event. Joe Lieberman is a tough one to guess. I, personally, have watched him change parties, sides, and affiliations. Wouldn't it be a hoot for him to be a republican VP, just 8 years after he was VP on the democratic ticket? And what are the conservatives going to do if he is? This is where John McCain takes the cake! If he chooses a pro-choice candidate for VP or if he cooses an anti-war candidate for VP, what will his party do? Change party affiliation? Hardly! Stay home and let Obama win by default? I think not! John McCain can pretty much make any decision he wants regarding this campaign, his party has their back against the wall and he knows it. And truthfully, I find it just a bit entertaining.
Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find? a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Enigma

I'm just a bit confused and it would seem my question simply will not be answered in this life. I really would like an answer and if not, I would at least like to know other people are questioning this, too.
Facts we have been led to believe: 15 of 19 Passports belonging to 9/11 terrorists were issued by the country of Saudi Arabia, "two from the United Arab Emirates, one from Egypt, and one from Lebanon. In sharp contrast to the standard profile of suicide bombers, the hijackers were well-educated, mature adults, whose belief systems were fully formed." - wikipedia
"Dubai Ports World (DP World), a United Arab Emirates (UAE)-owned company, recently bought the British-owned Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O). Effective March 2, the purchase gives Dubai Ports World control over facilities in six U.S. ports: New York, Miami, Newark-Port Elizabeth, Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Baltimore. Politicians in affected states and cities have raised alarms in the media over vital infrastructure "falling into Arab hands." Others in Washington are questioning the Bush administration's quick approval of the sale . . ."
I can't say much about our relationship with Egypt, but I do remember all the denial of assistance to Israel when Lebanon invaded in 2006. Oh, I know, we were told it was Hezbollah, but Lebanon's "democracy" has a number of Parliament chairs occupied by Hezbollah.
So far, America's war on terror has made political parties out of Hamas and Hezbollah and we've declared war on two countries that didn't give any 9/11 attackers, their walking papers or Passports.
So what gives? Supposedly Osama bin Laden was in the Afghanistan/Pakistan neighborhood, so we went and air bombed the behinds off every camel there and NO bin Laden. Then by late 2002, G.W. was arbitrating and negotiating the land give-away in Israel, and by March of '03, he had 70% of Americans convinced that Iraq was somehow tied to 9/11 and we no longer cared where bin Laden might be, we could find Saddam Hussein and since he wasn't a terribly popular guy, we could just murder him!
I don't get it! I can't find any answers and I can't see any logic in this, other of course than, Saudi is quite a rich and powerful nation that has a ton of oil. EAU, for some reason, has been allowed to invest in our ports and that doesn't make sense, considering they gave travel papers to 2 attackers. Why did we invade Afghanistan if G.W. really didn't care where bin Laden was and hasn't bothered with him since . . . and why did we go to Iraq on the pretense they might have had an alQuaida training camp or weapons of mass destruction? Only if they were American made from the early 80's, would they be of Mass Destruction . . .
This "war on terror" needed to be directed at the places that authorized the passports, if in fact, it was supposed to be a legitimate war on terror. And if we didn't have the courage to face off those directions, we certainly didn't need to become dependent upon them for oil, give them our ports and sell them $20 billion dollars worth of weapons. That's right, G.W. just did a deal with Saudi to sell them $20 billion dollars worth of American weapons and all the survivors of those that died on 9/11 were told they cannot hold the government of Saudi responsible for the terrorists acts. So then, once again, why were we worried that there might have been terrorists training camps in Afghanistan or Iraq? The governments aren't responsible for the individual terrorists according to US Federal Judges and the US President. So, while all the neo-con sheeple continue to remind us of the fact we had to invade Afghanistan and Iraq because of the 3,000 people that died on 9/11, I must say, we went to the wrong places if it's about 9/11 and the survivors of those that died on 9/11 have truly been shown just where our government stands when it comes to the truth about 9/11.
He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

My Thoughts Regarding the GOP VP

These past few days have been interesting with news other than politics.
I'm just thrilled about Michael Phelps! I remember watching Mark Spitz in the '72 Olympics. This past week, I've checked every morning as to what is going on with Michael Phelps and I was quite impressed to know that he'd already won 6 Golds in Athens in '04, and now 8 in '08. This young man is an amazing athlete. My 6 year old grandson, who just happens to be a natural in the water, has been pretty amazed by this athlete, as well. So, who knows? But special KUDOS to Michael Phelps.
I also noticed as Michael Phelps took center stage around the world, the mega-church pastor Rick Warren took center stage at his own church, to host the presumed Presidential Candidates. From what I've read, I gather that his crowd is leaning toward McCain. And now, the grand unveiling of vice presidential choices is at hand. I think Obama will have to name some middle aged white guy or woman, but I'm thinking man, with "experience" to balance his multi-cultural freshness! McCain, on the other hand has a very unique voting bloc with which to deal and I think that will definitely allow him a great deal of freedom in his choice of VP. I've read, Senator McCain may consider a pro-choice candidate. And who could miss the fact that bipartisan, independent, who knows how he'll vote, Joe Lieberman; has been regularly seen on the McCain campaign trail. I think McCain can pretty much go conservative or liberal in his choice, as the primary issue in his main voting bloc is simply "against Obama."
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

How Do We Stop the Draft, if We Don't Close the Door?

We do not have the military muscle to back the presumptuous politicians. Contentious posturing on the part of our administration is liable to lead to an exhausted, stretched military or a mandatory military. Oh, that's right, we already have an exhausted, stretched military. So I guess that leaves only one other possibility. . . Or the current administration could just stay home and be quiet. I was truly shocked at the headlines I read this morning. Dr. Rice is in Georgia and proclaiming globally, that Russia needs to get their troops out! They are causing instability in the area . . . Well, I guess, I need to give her credit for knowing something about the topic. No one would know better about causing instability than someone in this present American administration. She also thinks the rest of the powers of the world need to come up with some sort of consequences for Russia's act. You know, if I were sitting in the middle of a country that had not attacked mine and had for some time, asked me nicely to leave, after I tore it with war, I don't think I'd want to call anyone's attention to a similar situation.
My geography is not the best, so I looked on the map. Georgia just isn't very far at all from Iran, and of course we know Iran isn't far from Iraq, and Afghanistan is just on the other side of Iran. Closer, I think than say China and Japan, when President Bush mentioned "being in the neighborhood" at the G8 Summit. I checked and sure enough, we are in Iran's neighborhood, on all sides. Surely there aren't many here that are still buying that tired story about "keeping it over there." We are doing everything in our "diplomatic power" to stir it up over there and in doing so, making ourselves anything but an innocent victim of a future attack. We're offending so many, that if something does happen, we'll have to wait to see who takes credit, to even know who did it!
He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Because 'We' Can . . .

What absolute absurdity, I've read about in the past few days. Here's just one example. It would seem, that although there are an abundance of unwanted pets and a country that simply kills unwanted babies, someone actually paid $50,000K to have a pitbull cloned. I would say, only in America; but the person is only an American and had this mess of a procedure accomplished in Korea, South Korea, I believe. What's next? Don't you just wonder what in the world people are going to think of next? And be willing to finance? When I saw the picture of the woman holding one of the five puppies, I was embarrassed for her. I, personally, wouldn't embrace the idea of being famous for something ridiculously selfish. While she's revelling in already knowing her dog . . . What happens to the other 4? All of this, simply because science can accomplish it? I did a bit more checking on the matter. Turns out she sold her home to pay for this and she hopes more people will be able to do this in the future, because losing a pet is tragic. Here's her quote I found at msnbc.
"I had to make sacrifices and I dream of the day, some day when everyone can afford to clone their pet because losing a pet is a terrible, terrible loss to anyone."
Here we are in the biggest economic crunch this country has seen in years and people are losing their homes to foreclosure and their pets to the natural life cycle and she is truly this oblivious to anyone around her? With the cost of gasoline and well dog food for that matter, I truly hope the country doesn't adopt her set of values. In reading the next paragraph, I discovered she had owned the dog for 12 years and adopted him at a shelter, so he had a chance many dogs never get, and 12 more years is a relatively full life, anyway. In dog years, isn't that 84 or something? I'm sorry she lost her beloved Booger, but most of us simply understood death to be a fact of life in pet ownership, well actually, in life.
The entire subject was just rather sad in a nauseating sort of way. I was particularly saddened by her use of the word, miracle.
And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast . . . the Revelation

What, What'd I Say Wrong?

Remember saying something as a kid and your mom or dad looking at you and saying something to the effect of "Better watch your mouth . . ." then standing there trying to sort out what you had just said, as to what was offensive or inappropriate?
Those flashbacks continue to run through my mind as I read the headlines about our "fearless" leader. For the longest time, I've thought he would be a great guest at a barbecue, but as of late, his manners as a guest just seem, well, rude. He made a major production to avoid airport security in China. Now, he knows how the rest of us feel. The day before arriving in China, he decided to cop a confrontational posture toward them. How ridiculous! China could shut America down in less than three days without firing a shot. All they have to do is tell Wal-Mart "NO!" No more trinkets, no more 30 day invoicing, no more nothin'! And you know, every time Americans just hold their breath, and wonder who he's going to try to offend next, he's standing there saying "What, What'd I Say Wrong?"
He's been trying to offend Putin for years and I think he's about done that by now over Georgia. We're providing transportation for the Georgians to leave Iraq to go fight the Russians. My thought there would be, if Iraq is wanting a time line and we have the available man and air power to help the Georgians get home, I guess our mission really is accomplished. Let's go . . . before Congress has to bluster about another bazillion dollars for the war, claiming they won't approve it, but they will!
So, in the last 7 years, we've started two wars, threatened another one, called the French all sorts of names, are desperately trying to offend Russia and Iran, we aren't even treated civilly at American airports and the license bureau is assigning a national ID number on driver's licenses. And all our leaders can say is "What, I didn't say anything wrong!" No wonder the world thinks Americans are rude, the high profile ones are!
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Time is Money, or is it Timing . . .

Well the feds met again and determined, nothing needed to be done to help our limping economy. It's just a matter of "wait and see," I believe is what I read. The wait and see idea is obviously a good one, since there are only 3 months until the election and only 2 more months until somebody else is sitting in the oval office trying to unravel this entire economic enigma. Actually, there is no enigma. Our President had a history of not so successful business endeavors and for those that think he was a big sports team owner, he only purchased 1% of the team and that was financed. Somewhere along the lines, Daddy's cronies, who were the real owners, gifted him with an additional 10%. As for the oil business, you'd think Zapata Oil could have been a real inheritance to a family of boys, but that just hasn't been mentioned since Neil's dinner with the Hinkleys and the unfortunate S&L situation. So now, he's had the entire US budget at his discretion and he's handled finances like the big mouth at the bar, yelling "A round of drinks for the house," well until the house changed parties and now it's the fault of the house, he can't do for us, anymore . . . I'm relatively sure, just like Grandpa Prescott in the 30's, his money isn't going to tank with the American economy. I don't know which country has the strong economy that Germany had in the 30's, but if I were a betting woman, that's where the neo-con interests are going.
But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. New Testament

Let's Talk About Pot

As a boomer, I feel that pot is a subject that belongs to our generation, but the reality is, it belonged to all the generations before us; until 1939. Our government, well Congress is attempting to make a federal case, once again, out of POT. Barney Frank, for some reason right before a major election wants to bring up the old "liberal vs. conservative" debate about pot. Why, when the majority of either party really doesn't want pot to be an issue in this year's election, he would do this is beyond me. So, I felt, as a law abiding citizen that believes it should be legal, I had to comment. Not wanting to put my foot in my mouth or to speak without knowledge, I did just a bit of checking regarding the facts. Here I thought I was going to be arguing for the legalization of a plant and instead, I found information that literally shocked me, beyond belief. Did you know, our country retains the availability to pronounce a death sentence for owning a certain amount of cannabis setiva? That's right, the offending amount is rather large, but still . . . the death penalty? Statistics tell us that there are a certain number of avoidable deaths each year attributed to alcohol consumption and prescription drug overdoses or errors. Actually the statistics are staggering, as in the thousands, but there has never been so much as one death attributed to an "overdose" of pot. And considering the number of arrests made when pot is involved, the majority of the crimes are simply the pot, no other crime is in process. They aren't assaulting someone, they aren't driving impaired, they aren't robbing anyone, they are just "in possession" and possibly stoned.
Now, here is the surprise. I found out that according to the 1994 Crime Act, there is written the potential death sentence for being in possession of 60,000 kilograms or 60,000 plants. A DEATH SENTENCE . . . Then I read that Newt Gingrich, in 1996, wanted an automatic death sentence for the second offense of smuggling 50 kilos. That bill didn't pass! How crazy is this? I do have to say, our country hasn't used this "available option" at this point, but it is on the books. The Supreme Court does not uphold the decision, but it's there and we all know, the so called majority does not want the Supreme Court making law at the bench after Congress has written it. And this law is in place, and was put on the books through the administration of the very first president to ever admit to a toke! Well, we all know Bill didn't inhale. Right? I think what caught me most by surprise was the small number of countries that take pot so seriously. Many countries have some legislation on the books and some countries get tough, others look tolerantly away, but according to my research, there are only 8 countries that have the legislative poower to carry out an execution over POT. The Philippines did have it on the books, but abolished capital punishment in 2006, so that leaves Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Singapore, People's Republic of China, and the good ol' USA. Interesting company we are keeping on this topic, don't you think? I was truly shocked that a religious country that espouses creation, or so they say, could find plant ownership worthy of the death sentence.
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: a Psalm of Holy Scripture

Just a Few Personal Thoughts

Usually, I have one particular subject that simply must be addressed, and I guess technically, there is a theme to this, but mostly I just wonder "Who do we think we are and what are we doing?" As a nation we're running AMOK! Our economy is tanked, our presumptuous democratic presidential nominee just came back from his world campaign and he truly does bring meaning to the word, presumptuous. Saturdays I don't usually turn on the computer, Sabbath, you know, and frequently I don't even answer the phone until sundown. But we have some very precious grandchildren that call to tell us "Shabbat Shalom," and we hadn't heard from them Friday night, so we answered Saturday thinking it might them. We haven't taken the technological leap to obtain caller ID. ID is another topic that fits this theme, I guess, but that would require far beyond the few sentences per topic for this blog theme. So, Saturday, the phone rang and it was a telemarketing recording. Something about the new funding that was available for our home mortgage through Freddie or Fannie. Isn't that amazing? Senate passed that funding bill just Saturday morning, the President hadn't even signed it and here the telemarketers have already recorded the promotions and offers . . .
We don't discuss business on Sabbath, so we simply hung up on the recording. That isn't rude is it? Freddie or Fannie was already presumptuously offering something that legally wasn't quite available, yet. And Freddie or Fannie was already presumptuously inviting "themselves" into my credit information.
Where is all this governmental presumption coming from? What if I don't want to be in debt and what if I don't want my government to bail out two companies that made bad decisions? What about all the people that paid too much for houses, but they can afford the mortgage for now? Shouldn't they get a bail out too? I mean considering the big mortgage companies couldn't see this coming and didn't give themselves anything to fall back on. Why can't the little guys in the country get the same break?
I've gotten several calls from Obama's campaign committee here locally, as of late, and they keep talking to me like I'm supposed to be at the committee meetings. They literally speak to me like I'm going to vote for him, without question . . .How presumptuous. I told them the Republicans send me republican only literature, like I'm a republican. I'm an independent. Actually, I even ran on the Libertarian ticket, so both of the main parties need to stop presuming.
We've crossed the line ages ago. Presumption, arrogance, pride, and confidence are not all interchangeable words. Confidence does not go in the same category as the other three. We, as Americans need to curb our presumption that the rest of the world or even each other will be "plumb proud" of our arrogance and call it confidence.
In the fear of YHVH is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

All Together Now

Embracing headlines all over the place. Obama is somewhere in another country campaigning for President and "all together now" and he's ready to inherit Bush's war on terror. And of course, the President, Bernanke, and Paulson, all keep telling us how concerned they are about high gasoline prices, home foreclosures and the high price of tea from China and sickening peppers from Mexico, and America is going to have some tough months ahead, but "together, we'll get through it."
I just don't feel a cohesiveness with these politicians, or any politician for that matter. Does anyone really think the death toll in an unnecessary war is affecting them personally? Is there any American that really believes a politician feels our pain or has our best interests at heart? Does anyone think their kids are sitting there listening to mom and dad discuss whether to buy gasoline or milk?
I, for one, am simply tired of listening to how concerned these leaders, or would be leaders, are about what we are going through. Al Gore and his green nonsense. Al, park the Escalade and ground the jet. By the looks of your lifestyle, you could save the oil and just burn money.
I don't want to hear one more politician or pundit tell me things are good or what is bad is felt by all of us, because none of that is true. Now the pundits are complaining about the "media," of which they are a part. According to some conservative pundits, the media is only reporting bad things and there are good things going on. That's right, like Exxon Mobile's record profits, quarter after quarter. Just get in on that stock and hey hey! Or, how about the latest pharmaceutical victory in any class action law suit? Now that we have tort reform doctors and pharmaceutical companies are a bit safer, and that's good news, eh?
Isn't it about time for President Bush to give us one of those "Enduring spirit of American pride" speeches, or whatever stirs the national insanity to buy into this for a few more months, til this mess is someone else's problem, or we've got a mess too big to even be able to complain about? I'm tired of being encouraged by having the issues dismissed with empty promises and aloof camaraderie.
And one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warm and full of food; but you do not give them the things of which their bodies have need, what profit is there in this? the book of James

Did I Miss An Important Announcement?

What gives? Why is Barack Obama campaigning around the world? I thought he was running for President of the United States. Is there a New World Position open that I haven't heard about? Why is it so exciting to Democrats when one of theirs is running for world power? I thought 70 some percent of us were tired of that after the last 7 years. Where is John McCain and why isn't he in the news? He is still running for President, isn't he? And isn't he campaigning in the country in which he hopes to be elected? The pundits have had nothing good to say about McCain, except great gratitude for his war time service and respect for his POW years. Like them I appreciate his military service and admire his endurance, but I do not believe being a POW qualifies a man to be President of the United States. This 2008 election really has me convinced that the two parties are connected behind the scenes and it's time for the democrats to play their role in the ever scarier game of them against us. While we think it's Dems vs. GOP, it's really politicians vs. citizens and they are winning big time, world wide. Maybe I have missed something without a TV, but I read the news every day. I had no idea Senator Obama would be campaigning throughout the world and telling them everyone we have to unite. Where is this coming from? And he wants Europe and America to stand together against terrorists? I thought he voted NO on all the war stuff. He sounds like the current administration. He's also been to the Holy Land, prayed at the Wall, (lovely photo op, by the way) and proclaimed that Israel and the Palestinians need a two state solution. I thought that was George's plan. What gives? Here, when the reporters were covering McCain, I kept hearing about 4 more years of the same, but it is Barack Obama who sounds like the Bush doctrine will remain intact. I've been sick and tired of seven years of a President that wants to rule the world, I don't want another one. This whole Messiah complex has already worn thin.
And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him . . . the Revelation

Attention . . . Autism

I really hate to cover this topic for a number of reasons. My heart just breaks for autistic children and their families and I hate to give Michael Savage any attention at all, since I am convinced he literally thrives on bad attention. Surely there's a diagnosis for this syndrome. This guy has been claiming to be persecuted for ages, now and then I read this . . . Persecution is the opposite of paranoia. If they are following you, it isn't paranoia. If you are just being mean, the reaction to it, isn't persecution. I've listened to talk radio to a degree and frankly, I prefer Alan Colmes and Mark Levin. I also have my contentions with both of them. I think Alan Colmes emphasizes his hate mail too much. What does he expect? He's basically the token liberal at a hot button, emotional, somewhat irrational, conservative "news" station. It's his job to be unpopular. Now, except for the 3rd grade bully style of name calling, Mark Levin makes some valid points right across party lines. I just wish he knew how much greater the impact would be, if he quit belittling with name calling. He does pick on himself from time to time, though, so I try to let it slide when he sounds like a chubby, belligerent 3rd grader that was chosen last for the team. Michael Savage, on the other hand is just boorish entertainment, for those that like that sort of thing. I think he really believes he is the reason and the focus that laws are being changed and he seems to truly believe that they are trying to silence him, so what does he do? He found a devastating topic and spewed stupidly on a subject that would only incite anger and inflict pain.

I read about this in several places, but I've included a couple of quotes from someone I gleaned to have a family member with autism.
>>Michael Savage spoke of autism and his comments made national headlines. On his nationally syndicated radio show, Michael Savage claimed that autism is "[a] fraud, a racket. ... I'll tell you what autism is. In 99 percent of the cases, it's a brat who hasn't been told to cut the act out. That's what autism is."
The Michael Savages of the talk world thrive on controversy. It is the fuel that keeps their shows alive, and the spark that prompts more listeners to tune in and see what outrageous garbage will spew from their pie holes next. If Savage is pulled from this station today, he'll be on two new stations tomorrow.<<
Michael Savage has since, in my opinion, attempted to clean this up a bit by saying he was really after the pharmaceutical impact of false diagnoses, and there is clearly some validity to that. But why not rant about the questionable diagnoses of fibromyalgia or something his listeners can relate to. How many subjective syndromes do we have by now, with our pharmaceutical companies getting richer and more Americans on disability? Why autism? I've seen exhausted, devastated parents of autistic children that do not have a family of brats, they have a child that they cannot reach, and a child that cannot reach them.
In another article I read, Mr. Savage shared what his father would have told him if he'd displayed such symptoms as he mentioned. He said among many things his father would say, "Don't act like a moron." Maybe, Michael, even though you have not been diagnosed with autism, perhaps it's time to take the advice you said your father would have given, anyway.
Hopefully Mr. Savage will finally enjoy the reality of his self-fulfilling prophecy. Maybe he's finally accomplished the offense that will take him off the air. He's certainly been trying long enough!
Fair words are not to be looked for from a foolish man . . . A Proverb of Holy Scripture

Tribunals, Combatants, and GITMO

The more I read about this, the foggier it becomes. First, there were hundreds of "dangerous" criminals being kept at GITMO. I believe Donald Rumsfeld referred to them as "the worst of the worst." Now all these years later, the first tribunal is taking place and it's for a chauffeur. An alleged chauffeur of Osama bin Laden? If he was the worst of the worst, wouldn't he have had a better job with bin Laden than chauffeur? That hardly seems to be a position of great honor or power, but he's the guy for the first tribunal since WWII. If I was a holocaust survivor, I'd be offended at this. Well, I'm not a holocaust survivor and I'm still offended. GITMO makes no sense and these tribunals make no sense. Five guys from the Pentagon's choosing are going to listen to the evidence and determine the rest of this man's life. Maybe this guy is somebody of some importance in alQuaida. Maybe this guy does have a bad group of associates, but our country is making this look like some sort of Kangaroo Court. It's even worse than the Iraqi puppet court that convicted Saddam Hussein. At least there, the occupiers tried to make it look like the decision was made by representatives of the people. It obviously takes someone with greater intelligence than the Bush faithful to see the stage was set by giving the power to Hussein's political enemies. For the short duration needed to make Hussein's death appear outside of the hands of the American administration, the puppet government was formed. Clearly they have no power, though, because now, they can't make their liberators leave!
Back to more that makes no sense. To begin with there were hundreds in GITMO, now there are around 200, with our government expecting to level charges against about 80 of the detainees. So where are all these worst of the worst? What's the difference between worst of the worst and combatant? I think, considering my attitude about the way things are going, I should know how our government defines combatant. WordWeb gives a pretty broad definition. A Combatant can be a fighter or can simply be, belligerent. Just how many of us could be considered belligerent at any given time? Since hundreds of former detainees are no longer there, what has happened to them? Did they get released without charges? Are they alive? Did they go back to their countries? If they were so bad, couldn't the administration come up with something against them? Clearly, the charges are difficult to come up with, since it's taken this many years to form a tribunal against a chauffeur. As a matter of fact, it almost seems like a teaser. Are we trying to make someone mad or appease the Bush followers that want those evil terrorists to pay for their crimes. If any of the reports about 9/11 are accurate, then the 19 guys that hijacked and crashed the planes, whoever the were, already died for their crime and it will not bring back one single victim, nor has it made anyone safer.
He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity . . . the Revelation

Fair Negotiations?

I read both CNN and FOXNews regarding the "prisoner" exchange between Israel and Hezbollah. I have a few questions. I realize right and wrong seems to simply be decided by whom you agree with, these days, but I just have some basic math and government issues with this deal and I would like to voice my concerns. I'll begin by questioning the government, all three. Our President has listed Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, so I never did know why we didn't help our ally in 2006, when Hezbollah used the Lebanese government to protect them in the attack on Israel. When our President said he wanted to encourage the fledgling democracy in Lebanon, why didn't we step in and stop Hezbollah? Either way, whether it was as Israel's ally or supporter of Lebanon democracy, where was America in 2006? I mean, we already have the majority of our military in the Middle East, why not step into that situation and resolved it? Now, Israel received the remains of two soldiers that were injured and taken captive. No one but Lebanon knows when they died. As long as Hezbollah, a terrorist organization sits by free election on the Parliament of Lebanon, Lebanon is supporting terrorism, plain and simple. And today we can read from sources, both sides of the aisle, that these militant killers that were released were given a hero's welcome. Doesn't sound like this fledgling democracy has anything against terrorism. I still don't understand the double speak of President Bush. But then, I don't understand all the double speak he's spoken the last 7 years! Now that I clearly do not understand President Bush's stand in this situation, I truly cannot abide the thought that child killers are heroes in any country that supposedly espouses free democracy. Now, on to the next burning question. Israel, what in the world are you thinking? Knowing that Lebanon wanted Kantar released, and knowing the two soldiers would be returned in coffins, why would you give the big bargaining chip so quickly? And my next question should be obvious, even to politicians. What motivation does your enemy have for taking care of captive soldiers? You have removed the protection from your own potentially captive soldiers, by negotiating imbalanced negotiation deals for bodies. You are surrounded by enemies. If they get their terrorists back healthy, and you are willing to give them to get back remains, how is that showing loyalty to your military?
Now, mathematically, none of this makes sense. Two bodies for 5 or 500 hundred living terrorists is a bad negotiation. Hamas is already commenting and upping the ante. America has elevated both Hezbollah and Hamas from virtual unknowns to terrorists to political parties and Israel, you are still kowtowing to all three, hoping to benefit.
And shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye approach this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; Torah of Holy Scripture

Fannie and Freddie

You two crazy kids, what were you thinking? How long did you think you'd get to be the one "making the offers behind the scenes" and all with the blessings and protection of the US government? Now, I for one can see the blame game coming, but even as the dust settles and everyone has chosen their fall guy, the outcome is still the same . . . People lose and companies either hang in, get bailed out, or become history, but regardless of governmental intervention or corporate capitalism, the one constant is; the people lose. Since investors are made up, primarily of the hard earned money of people that want accountability and take care of their money, this almost bottomless pit cannot continue to be unaccounted.
And what's with this illegitimate brain child, GinnieMae? GinnieMae, government backed (.gov), mortgages for the American Dream, is going to be an absolute nightmare. Why is it, every time the government, on any level, uses the word dream, it becomes a nightmare? Who in their right mind would want a government that is already in debt to back their mortgage? Isn't that the original Pay Day Loan concept? Or is it legalized loan sharking? When materialism and greed are the basis for motivating an economy and we have a Congress that lives large at the expense of the constituents, this is the end results. Everyone lives large and wild until as the Beach Boys sang, "Daddy takes the T-bird away." Clearly, those on Capitol Hill will be the least affected for the longest, and the Social Security people will have it made for a time, because most of them are mortgage free and their income is "protected" in a different govenment account, but I'm sure glad I'm teaching my Grandchildren to gather eggs, garden, and milk goats, because when the dust settles, I think the 21st Century is going to be a lot like the first several thousand years. It would appear that the 150 year industrial revolution has led to a revolting mess. Historically speaking, this has been a mere flash in the pan. And the flash in the pan is burning out. The scary part, is the fact our indebted government that cannot manage "given money" is coming to the rescue with more borrowed money . . .
The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Change . . . Obama Style

I've mentioned Senator Obama's campaign of change several times. Actually, I've questioned his use of the term and just what it is, he might mean when he says change. There's just too much politics as usual in his methods for me to think the change is positive, but today he gave real insight, I think, into the change he has in mind. Actually, the change was his change of mind! He has said repeatedly that the telecommunication companies that spied on Americans should not be granted immunity, but today, he was one of the Senators that voted to send that very bill to the President's desk for his signature. I wouldn't use the term flip-flop, but if he'll change this fast before he's elected, and with the promise of change coming, I'm guessing everything he's said and promised is subject to change.
. . . but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. New Testament

America Does Support Communism

We are foundational in the support of Communism, and it isn't through the Democratic party, well, not entirely. Republicans also shop at Wal-Mart and buy "made in China." As a matter of fact, the Republican aggression toward the American Union is what has strengthened Communism. Back in the days of "made in America" the union was strong and we weren't supporting Communism. Now, the Communist regime of China has a great deal of our commerce and they are holding the loan on our economic stimulus checks as well. I've known for years this fear of Communism that rallied in the 50's under the Republican militant watch was really connected somehow to the advancement of the same. The entire time the sheeple are running around fearing Communism, their hard earned dollar is devaluing and what little they do buy is purchased from a Communist country. This is really a scary deal and I don't know whether the Communists outsmarted the conservative leaders of our country or the conservative leaders of our country lead the constituents blindly and trustingly into Communist subservience, while they, the conservative capitalists plan to sit on top of the whole deal. While the conservative sheeple are remembering 3,000 Americans that died at the hands of terrorists holding Saudi Passports . . . What about the 58,000 Americans that were sent to Viet Nam and died, supposedly, fighting Communism?
Look at this. We aren't even on the same level with the largest Communist nation in the world, they own us! Has Communism conquered materialism without a shot being fired?
For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me. Holy Scripture

Paying Customers are Grounded

I used to enjoy flying. As an adult, I came to love the excitement of travel and by the time I enjoyed traveling, flying was really pretty economical. And then 9/11 happened, and of course, everything changed. Granted, some things needed to change, but what I am going to address in this blog has nothing to do with terrorists. Simply, it has to do with an abuse of assumed and implied authority. The airlines are not going broke due to regulations or high fuel costs. The airlines are going broke because they do not treat their customers with respect. I traveled a bit after 9/11, but I discovered America was the only country in which every single person attempting to board a plane was presumed guilty until proven innocent. I am sorry for the people that lost loved ones in those planes on 9/11, but since our government did nothing to monitor the VISAs and PASSPORTs from the country that provided them, I just don't think this airport security is really about stopping terrorism. I think it's about pushing us right up to the breaking point and seeing just what we huddled masses will tolerate, while being told it's for our own good. And now when I read the headlines with the airlines doing something inane, it isn't any longer "for the good of the passengers," it's about some crew member being offended. Rather than worrying about terrorists, the airline employees have made judgment calls about wardrobe, children's behavior, and just this last week, cranky exhausted passengers were grounded. Big difference in less than 7 years!
Other than hating to see the loss of one more option in this country, which I have already opted out of, I think the airlines are bankrupting themselves, since they can't be nice.
A woman with four small children was simply left stranded because the crew thought her children were disruptive. No refund offered, no alternative accommodations, at the time, just stranded miles and miles from where she had boarded and her destination. I remember, clearly, the fashion incident. I thought then, it was simply a matter of jealousy. These flight attendants should be nicer and kinder. Most of them would not have met the criteria for flight attendants in the 60's and 70's, anyway. And this week-end, the crew was over an hour late, met with ill tempered customers that made a few choice comments. Considering, the fact that travelers have to arrive at least an hour early and endure every form of security check deemed necessary by some control freak with issues and a badge, the crew had the gall to say they were frightened. Of what? Airline passengers aren't allowed to have anything. Terrorists aren't bringing down the airlines, the airlines are doing that themselves.
A man that hath friends must show himself friendly . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Arbitration and Agreements . . . for What?

I read today that al-Maliki is exerting a bit more authority in his occupied country and he's been met with some resistance by his occupiers. I also read that Israel and Hezbollah have signed an agreement. From what I've read in the Israeli papers, Israel has made a lousy deal. Israel is releasing prisoners, dangerous prisoners, and several of them, in exchange for the bodies of two IDF soldiers. I realize the soldiers deserve to be honored, but being remembered for defending their country is honorable. I can't imagine that any soldier would feel honored knowing a murderer was set free so their already deceased remains could be buried at home. How is it that Israel has been left to negotiate with terrorists, and her allies are doing nothing? Maybe somebody in Israel needs to get on the TV and shout something about "either you're for us or against us." I can't help but wonder why our present American administration has declared a global war on terror, yet helped place two terror groups into political power and is now being invited to leave the war we started. Here we've been hearing about how good things are going over in Iraq, what with the troop surge and all. Wasn't it just a couple of months ago, we were told downtown Baghdad was coming out from under cover? Now, today, after al-Maliki invites us to leave, I read that things are still pretty bad over there. I wish I believed America's efforts in the Middle East were honorable. I wish I just believed something the American administration says.
I'm certainly not feeling like I have any idea what is really going on, but something is going on and it just feels like trouble is brewing. And from what I've seen the last seven years, I think it's "home-brew."
He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

I'm Not Getting It, Now I Get It . . .

I've done a bit of checking and discussing and even a tad of genuine research to arrive at this conclusion. My official opinion concerning this matter came after doing a Google Search and being directed to a webpage ending with "irs.gov"
The Google Search was simple: "Where's My Stimulus Payment"
The answer was illuminating.
This table describes the status of your refund
Social Security Number: ***-**-_ _ _ _
You did not qualify for the Stimulus payment because your qualifying income was not high enough. Qualifying income includes wages and net earnings from self-employment that is includable in taxable income, Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement benefits and Veterans disability compensation, disability pension, and survivors benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Helpful Information:The 2008 tax instructions will include a worksheet to help those who did not qualify for a payment or those who received a reduced amount determine if they can obtain a benefit when they file their 2008 tax returns next year.

This explained it beautifully. We are not the only ones in the country that are living off of our own investments and paying minimal taxes for political reasons, but that is cause to be treated with prejudice by the US government. What if we weren't living off of our investments and annuities and just unemployed without qualifying income? I'll admit, I have done some figuring and reduction of income to reduce my tax liability, because I don't believe in a number of things our government invests in. I am also one of those individuals that does not believe in government provision for the people of G~D, so although I pay in, I don't collect any of the government give-aways. I do realize there are some religious people that believe G~D uses the government to provide. Some of them collect and call it "bleeding the beast." Then of course, there are all those that "paid into it" . . . I personally know a number of people that "paid in" when it was 1% withholding and are still collecting when there is a 3% annual COLA. And oh, they are collecting and their kids are now collecting also. I didn't mind getting left out of the loop, but I really was sad to see that so many people that are living on the taxes of their hardworking grandchildren were happy to have the grandchildren's checks reduced so they could get in on one more government give away!
Now as to the real purpose of this stimulus check. It was to recirculate it through the economy. Our government officials are 'smart' enough to know that people who are willing to live on less to take a stand or people that have spent their young working lives, investing for the future are not the ones that are easily bought and do not make up the bulk of consumer purchases. No need for our government to hand someone a check that will only save it! What kind of craziness is that? Our government would rather borrow the money from China, give it to the people, so they can spend it at Wal-Mart, buying items marked "made in China." The money then goes back to China, except the loan for the borrowed spending spree is still due . . . At least our government had the foresight to exclude the savers.
There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up. a proverb of Holy Scripture

Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

I read today that Rush Limbaugh has signed a contract for many years into the future. I also read today that the Clintons are trying to bury the hatchet with Obama, and frankly, I see a connection. I truly believe that the pundits know their job security depends upon a democrat in the White House. Obviously, they have gotten a lot of mileage for the past 7 1/2 years out of the previous administration. Clearly that same tactic would not be prudent at this juncture. The conservative pundits need new political blood to spill and spew over, and they have chosen Obama for us. Don't kid yourselves, until the pundits directed their unquestioning followers to vote against Hillary, she had an overwhelming lead. And when it comes right down to it, if it was truly about politics and liberalism, Hillary and Obama are pretty similar in many of their views, promises, and threats. If the pundits really care that Obama is supposed to be more liberal than Hillary, wouldn't conservatives want the least liberal running against a no win candidate on the republican side? I know, the Limbaugh listeners think they are informed, because Rush tells them he tells them everything they need to know . . . and amazingly that doesn't set off any bells or wave any red flags for them. They just sit and listen and do what he says, and pay him for his newsletters. I have to tell you, except for the 3rd grade name calling, I was growing rather fond of many of Mark Levin's views, but our local station changed and I can't hear him anymore, but he at least was not just a brain washed republican. He spoke like the entire party had lost it's meaning and he wanted to get it back. He didn't seem like a blind follower or arrogant leader, he seemed like a guy that likes attention, likes to talk, and loves making a good living. Back to the boys that tell their listeners what will keep them with a large listening audience. They throw their listeners a piece of raw meat and watch them jump like starving predators, and out of the clamor hope to grab onto even a morsel to sink their teeth into. The pundit listeners like to be afraid and upset, that's why they tune in every day or in some cases several times a day. And the pundits like the money, the fame, and if things go right in November, or should I say left . . . the job security of trashing another president for 4-8 years and then having him to blame when the next so called conservative takes office.
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. New Testament

Faith Based Community Initiatives

I've been reading quite a few articles that are addressing Obama's plans to provide government funding to religious organizations to combat homelessness, hunger, and poverty, in general. He says the church is closer to the need than the government. With our government, it isn't just organizations, but every individual is closer to need, hunger, and homelessness, at this point! I also read an interesting editorial on the topic of faith based community initiatives, by a conservative writer. He, of course, doesn't think it's a very good idea for the government to fund the church or the church to be dependent upon the government . . . something about "what happens when Christians cozy up to the government." I think we know what happens any time anyone or any entity gets funded by the government, they become owned. Although our government is certainly not new to making poor investments and throwing money at problems without accountability, that will not be the case when it comes to religious organizations. Every 501c3 comes at a price. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association sent me a letter years ago about the fine line that must be walked to keep the government officials from removing a religious organization or minister's "not for profit status." This country is loaded with not for profit, prophets and they are loaded . . . and tax exempt! I find that odd, since Messiah himself paid taxes. He didn't have any problem at all keeping G~D and Caesar separate and He clearly taught that G~D was not dependent upon Caesar.

So, what's going to happen if Obama is elected and he starts doling the dole out to the churches to help the poor, saying it's the Lord's work? I'm guessing the conservatives are going to be up in arms! Undoubtedly, the government will have to become more invasive into our lives and more stringent with our First Amendment rights to ensure that there is no partiality. As if that were even possible in anything related to politics. I've already read a few comments and I don't know what's taken so long. I find it fascinating and, well entertaining, that this Faith Based Community Initiative idea, that Mr. Obama addressed, is offensive to many religious conservatives when it was one of the first things put in place in the George W. Bush administration.

And Y'shuah answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to G~d the things that are G~d's . . . New Testament

Weather is Hardly Small Talk Anymore

Between horrible storms and global warming, the scientists are becoming bigger prophets of doom than any religious fanatic ever could! And I'm just wondering what kind of inside scoop these scientists have. Oh, I don't think they are hearing this insight from G~D, but I do think they have some insider information. I've been doing a bit of research for the book I'm working on, and I did a little checking into seeding clouds and atmospheric grids. Then I read this interesting article that all the global warming that's been warned about is going to happen this summer instead of 20 years from now and the quote was some scientist saying "We hate to say I told you so, but we told you so." I've always found to qualify an "I told you so" with "I hate to say it, to be arrogantly ridiculous." Face it, if I told you so fits, that means the person saying it was right and there is nobody that hates to say they were right! Now, back to weather and warming. I just can't help but think the scientists have a bit of a hand in what is happening. You just can't play with the atmosphere without repercussions. We have space travel, we have a space station, and I have no idea what they can do from there. We have cloud seeding to control rainfall . . . Well, our modern society certainly doesn't need any "rainmakers" or rain dances and pleasing G~D is totally unnecessary for health and rain and all those things HE promised, if we have science. I can't help but correlate our weather control and space race to global warming. I'm just having a hard time believing my 40 watt light bulbs have a bigger effect on our atmosphere than rockets and jets. And I know, when it comes to making rain and playing G~D, nobody knows the long term consequences of that!
And the serpent said unto the woman, . . . ye shall be as gods . . . Torah of Holy Scripture

Politics, Preaching, and Proselytizing

Politics and religion are truly intertwined in America and both segments do their best to proselytize, but it's getting pretty interesting and inverted. Preachers want to influence politics and politicians use the pulpits to proselytize. Preachers attempt to covert people's politics and politicians attempt to connect with people's values.
Jim Dobson is pretty vocal on a number of political issues and politicians. As he attacks Obama, he's tap dancing the 501c3 line pretty closely, but then he's a loud voice amongst the evangelicals, so he's as untouchable as Obama is politically. If Jim Dobson gets challenged, he's being persecuted, just like when Obama gets questioned, he's being profiled . . . Dobson shoots his mouth off, then hides behind his religious credentials. Obama is in the spotlight and says what he wants, but is ready at all times to pull the racial victim.
I think these two men are scary opponents. This is where they both can stand on the same opposite ground, circled by their rallying followers cause enough hoopla that the true Bible conservatives and believers of social liberty will simply be disenfranchised, religiously and politically. Obama is sketchy and vague about his beliefs, except what he's politically voted for. Jim Dobson has already put his foot in his mouth by saying he will not vote for McCain. Religion has played a huge role in Obama's campaign. Politics plays a huge role in Dobson's commentary, but Dobson says parts of the Old Testament are irrelevant. Then that changes a lot of things regarding his teaching. He also said Obama was disregarding the traditional Bible understanding. Tradition is another thing the Pharisees desperately clung to. Obama on the other hand has a lot of words and says nothing. What concerns me is the amount of power and the number of followers each of these men have, and the group of individuals that lives here in America that neither man represent. This country has some citizens that are very devout but not evangelicals. This nation has some citizens that would like to have change, but not at the expense of their souls. There are people that unlike Jim Dobson, who believe the entire Bible is relevant, and do not believe any of the Bible is irrelevant to New Testament teaching. And there are some people that know the evangelicals were wrong before, but that doesn't make Obama the right choice now. Obama's religious beliefs are confusing and his political history is incredibly short. There is a minority of us that will not be dissuaded by either man. We know and fully believe the entire Bible is relevant and the true change America needs is to put G-d ahead of politics.
. . . here are they that keep the commandments of G-d, and the faith of Y'shuah. New Testament

Now That I Think About It

I had planned to address the topic of Joel Osteen in today's blog, but then over the week-end, George Carlin died and I simply must acknowledge him. Then it occurred to me to cover both men in the same blog since they both are part of the entertainment industry, or now for George, were. I've been listening for the past couple of years, the people praising Joel Osteen and I found it interesting when Alan Colmes, a Jewish ultra liberal, promotes Joel Osteen's book on his website. I haven't read the book, but it sure made me wonder just how strong the conservative Christian message must be, if Alan Colmes is promoting it . . . And I've thought a lot about how much I enjoyed the perspective of George Carlin, but I didn't appreciate or agree with his animosity toward religion. Not that religion, in itself, isn't annoying, but he associated G~D with annoying religious individuals and I didn't appreciate or agree with that. As I remember the wit of George Carlin, I think of one of my favorite observations he made. I loved the way he commented on linguistics. He took the obvious and pointed it out. Often it wasn't the single example, but it was the way he could lead the mind to ponder. He mentioned how we use words wrong. He said, "We drive on a parkway and we park on a driveway!" The humor is not necessarily in what he said and the logic is certainly defied in the example, but the humor is in the fact, we do it and we say it! And the logic is in the fact someone had the unique and original insight to come up with the observation. Yeah George! That was what made George Carlin big in my book.
Now Joel Osteen, on the other hand, is telling antiquated jokes that have been around for years and as far as I can tell, he doesn't inspire anyone to think, but rather soothes and mentally massages them to feel good right where they are, but he entertains his crowd as well as George entertained his fans. There are times in which I would love to buy a ticket and sit and listen to someone say what I want to hear. George did that for thousands of people over the past many years and I know Joel does that for thousands of people, and is continuing to do so.
I do think George and Joel have one thing in common. I think they will both stand before the throne of G~D and discover they were wrong. George, in his passing, may already have discovered that G~D is not the annoying Deity that religious people make Him out to be. I hope he gets the chance to acknowledge his error. And Joel will someday discover he's lulled over 50,000 people into amused complacency and lead them away from The Truth. I hope they get the chance to realize their error.
woe unto them! for their day is come, the time of their visitation. a prophet of Holy Scripture

FDA - Formal Destruction of Americans

The FDA bureaucrats are truly dancing my last good nerve. Why are so many hazardous elements now in our food and water? And we need to keep in mind, most everything that can be found in the water, has already been approved for consumption by the FDA and is merely being "recycled." That's another tangent, entirely, but I will share just this one thought. Now that they are discussing grey and black water, knowing truthfully that all the water has been leaving homes and apartments through the same sewer system to ultimately reach a major waterway, to be recycled back through our tap and water fountains, just makes me sick, and I'm guessing it's going to make a number of Americans sick at some point.
Now back to the bureaucratic department dedicated to the destruction of the people. The number of people on disability and with diabetes has skyrocketed, and the statistics for obesity are off the charts, and all since the introduction and FDA approval of aspartame . . . The class action lawsuits are staggering, regarding reactions and side effects of pharmaceuticals approved by the FDA. Although it hasn't been absolutely confirmed and proven, we've been told for years that Alzheimer's patients have a higher level of aluminum in their brain than those that are not affected by this tragic illness. So what do we have now? We have aluminum in our anti-perspirants, we have aluminum in our baking powder and alluminum in our salt. We have Teflon lined aluminum cookware and bake ware . . . And you have to buy special aluminum foil if you don't want it to stick and disintegrate into the food you are trying to preserve. Yet, all of these products must meet the criteria of the FDA.
The products the FDA is approving for human use and consumption are nothing short of Weapons of Mass Destruction.
There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. a Proverb of Holy Scripture

The Drill

Our President has just seven months left, and 70 some percent of the American population is breathing a collective sigh of relief, but . . . he apparently wants to go out with a memorable bang! He's been in Europe trying to get "allies" to help flush out Bin Laden before he leaves office. He's discussed Iran and Iraq and now he's back trying to make sure there is new controversy where Congress and oil prices are concerned. The oil companies say it is not greed! The king of Saudi says he is going to release more oil. So what is the big deal to create a conflict where Congress is concerned? My guess is, it's time, yet again, for another shell and marble game! After seven years, we're all familiar with it. Which shell is the marble under? It's the most basic and oldest con game going and this administration is absolutely masterful at doing it, and repeating it, and repackaging it and doing it again! If the king of Saudi is going to produce and release more oil, what's the sudden urgency now? ANWR has been off limits since the Reagan days. And according to some pundits, even if there was more oil, there are no refineries to handle it . . . so another moot point. There is yet another issue to this topic. The Bush family has been in the oil business, back to the days of association with John Hinkley's dad. The Hinkley situation, aside, according to everything I've read from our President's interests and attempts at entrepreneurialism, George W. drills dry holes.
So, really this is about instigating and initiating another "blame game" for the new democratic Congress, and with each situation, we participate, while the groundwork is laid to do what? . . . Declare war on Iran? Betray Israel with the real deal that's been planned? Liberate more Iraqis right out of their homes and country? Run rough shod over Musharraf in Pakistan? Or is it just one more attempt to divide the country with red and blue?
A man of twisted purposes is a cause of fighting everywhere . . . a Proverb of Holy Scripture

Okay, I Have A Problem with This . . .

When the headlines about Miley Cyrus got controversial, I read a few, but I don't really keep up with the celebs. My grandchildren just love Hannah Montana and they were down visiting for a few weeks and I realized just how influentially entertaining this little 15 year old is, so I decided to do a bit more research. I read her "powerful acceptance line" from some awards dinner where she mentioned her "faith" and says that keeps her grounded. I then proceeded to where the photographer for Vanity Fair supposedly pushed this innocent little girl into photos that were inappropriate for her age and her image. Interestingly, I saw both of her parents in the background of the "shoot." And I saw her achy-breaky has-been father in some of the photos. The best thing I can say about the photos with her father, was the word 'questionable' came to mind . . . Billy Ray needs to just make peace with who he is and how old he is. Back to Miley. I'm not perfect by any means, but I have a real problem with people sprinkling a little "Jesus" in their speeches and banter and going right on doing what they want. George Bush just kind of ruined that for everyone. He made one mention of Jesus and Christian America just bowed down, and I've read some comments about Miley's acceptance speech and read the same kind of comments. It wasn't a month after her acceptance speech for the Kid's Choice Award, the pictures of her in the Vanity Fair photo shoot appeared. And just like she thanked Jesus, she blamed the photographer. Her parents seemed offended by what that photographer did, but the photographer was smart enough to have not just dad, but mom, too in the background in some of the photos. If Miley were a bit older and if Miley was not influencing children the way she does, and if Miley was just appearing on Christian programing, I'd say go ahead and live the double standard, it's the American Christian way, for the most part! But she influences the kids, and does so, as a kid. And this whole naivete on her part and the part and her parents is just ridiculous. She could have said "No!" Her dad could have said she's too young and this is too provocative. Her mom/manager could have reminded everyone she's only 15 and just got her name changed, she's not an adult yet! Vanity Fair and the photographer are absolutely not to blame! Although I don't read it, I have seen the cover and from the cover, I feel I can ascertain the genre of Vanity Fair. I'm not in show business, but I've heard about starlets that used their bodies to advance their careers. I just think the entire Cyrus clan ought to knock off the innocent, Sunday School, country bumpkin routine and just say it the way it is. Instead of all the excuses and blaming, I'd rather have Hannah Montana telling her fans, "G~D has given everyone gifts, you don't have to show the packaging!"
. . . that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; . . .(which becometh women professing godliness) . . . New Testament

The Ultimate Flip Flop

Imagine my surprise when I read today, that President Bush wants to capture Osama Bin Laden before he leaves office. Isn't it interesting how Osama bin Laden has not been a priority since March of '03, except right before elections? Sometimes this makes me wonder if there really is an Osama bin Laden . . . I know there was a tragedy on 9/11, but it's this administration that is our source for this information , and frankly it's been this administration that has led us on more than one rabbit trails. We've been told that Osama bin Laden claimed responsibility, but who told us that? And we've been told that he was surrounded in the Tora Bora mountains, but George W. Bush gave orders to go to Iraq . . . because even though Saddam Hussein had nothing to do with 9/11, based upon "reliable intelligence," there was the possibility of WMD . . . Now, to be honest, I expected his capture in fall of 2004, before November. I even told people I expected it, but all we got was a lousy video the last week of October. Apparently that was enough to win the election, but . . . I also remember when it was reported in December of '01 that Osama bin Laden was dead. So, if he was dead then, and George Bush said he wasn't a priority, why, other than an election, would he be a priority now? Could it be that President Bush wants to put a shine on his tarnished presidency, or could it be . . . America is going to run rough shod over Musharraff right into Pakistan? I read today, we've put the British up to that maneuver. I know, what if all of our "good intelligence" reveals that Osama bin Laden is in Syria or better yet, Iran? Or what if he just runs that way when the Brits flush him out of Pakistan? We have to be ready for him, right?
This new priority on Osama bin Laden tells me it's going to be a busy 7 months before 1600 Pennsylvania Ave receives new tenants.
And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Matthew's account of the Gospel

I Think Fearmongers are Scary

I am absolutely exhausted with the concept of creating or suggesting one crisis after another to protect constituents from potential danger. Although I realize the rest of us have been "protected" right along with the constituents, right out of our rights. Fear is the greatest tool imaginable when those in authority want to obtain unquestioned control. We all remember all the fear tactics our parents used. Apparently, this boomer administration was fed the same nonsense, but apparently they still believe it. Well, in all fairness to our boomer President, he has surrounded himself with some of the previous generation, those that seem to actually believe inciting fear is the best way to provide protection. My thought on that subject is a bit more direct. If the one offering the protection, truly wants to protect, then do that and quit spending valuable energy scaring people. This generation of fear tactics is nothing more than yelling "fire" in a crowded theatre, yet they want respect and authority for doing so. Sorry, I just don't have it to give. I remember as a kid, hearing all sorts of scary reasons, I needed my childhood micromanaged and why every move I made needed to be done on a microscope slide. It was preparation for our nation in the 21st Century. I remember being told about the Lindbergh baby, when I wanted to stay home alone. There are many interesting factors that were omitted in that telling. One, my father was not a famous pilot. Two, I was not a toddler, Three, according to Charles Lindbergh, not only were both parents home at the time, so was the nanny, and Four, that tragedy occurred before my parents were even born, and yet they enjoyed a freedom filled childhood with working moms that didn't spend their time telling scary stories. And now, these same people want us to be afraid of everything. I can't even keep a straight face any more as my mom insists that after 9/11, we had to attack Iraq over not showing us weapons of mass destruction. And her reason . . . "because we're America and we have to keep it 'over there.'" I guess the one perk in the deal is to listen to the note of defiant fear in the voices of those that used to incite it. According to the last election, that was about 51% of the American population. According to recent polls, however; the figure of those that like to spend every waking moment afraid of their own shadow, the pundits' imagination, and the endless list of leaders that our President has attempted to offend, that number has significantly declined. Thank G~D for that. I don't understand the 30% that still believe living in fear and inciting fear is the moral and right thing to do, especially since the Bush devotees claim to be religious. If only the ultra religious knew what Scripture says about fear.
YHVH is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? a Psalm of Holy Scripture

Interesting Statistics . . .

I've mentioned before in these blogs, my feelings about statistics and the value I place in them. Statistics can be manipulated to support or annihilate anything. I found an interesting article about raw milk and the stats just caught my eye.
Here is the link.
http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2008Jun11/0,4670,RawMilkCrackdown,00.html
I'll qualify this with the statement that I am all natural and Orthodox organic. I go by the Bible in raising my animals and garden and I do not adhere to the propaganda proposed by the FDA. This FDA is the very bureaucratic branch of our government that has approved all sorts of cancer causing edibles, neurological damaging additives, and a plethora of pharmaceuticals that are the subject of class action law suits, and although I do not mean to disregard any loss of life, this article states that 2 people have died in 8 years from this particular situation. Is there anything the FDA has approved in the past decade that has only resulted in 2 deaths?

Raw milk proponents insist they are under siege by state and federal regulators intent on snuffing out the industry.

Food safety officials say raw milk has sickened hundreds of people with salmonella, E. coli and other bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,000 people fell ill from raw milk between 1998 and 2005. Two died.


Herzog, whose 10-year-old daughter spent two months in the hospital after her kidneys failed because of E. coli poisoning, is one of the families suing Organic Pastures over the 2006 outbreak that health officials determined was probably caused by raw milk from the dairy.
"I don't have anything good to say about raw milk," she said. "It was a horrible experience."

I emphasized the word, probably, because it needs to be. When we can read about E. coli and salmonella in the produce that is approved for us to consume and we know there is a class action law suit pending for a myriad of FDA approved drugs, I have a real issue with the propaganda perspective of these statistics, in regard to raw milk. Mrs. Herzog's daughter lived through this E. coli experience, unlike the little 2 year old boy that ate spinach and unlike a few people that ingested peanut butter a couple of years ago.
I can, off the top of my head, name more FDA approved death causing problems in the last few years, than the FDA's claim over the past 8 years. In a period of just a few days of consumption, there were more illnesses and deaths reported from peanut butter than 8 years of monitoring unpasteurized milk, yet Peter pan is still for sale and Con Agri is still in business.

If anyone truly believes this is about unpasteurized milk, I'm guessing their naivete is quite inviting for the average huckster, lawyer or politician.

Considering the year pasteurization took place, I found this next quote particularly asinine.

"Raw milk should not be consumed by anyone for any reason," said John Sheehan, head of the FDA's dairy office. "It is an inherently dangerous product."

So, this bureaucrat is obviously oblivious to the fact that the human race has existed, thrived, and propagated in a prolific manner for thousands of years, consuming raw milk. As a matter of fact, historically speaking, humanity has only been avoiding this "inherently dangerous product" for the last 125 years.
However did humanity last long enough to come to this enlightened period of the past 125 years?
or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? New Testament

Making History

It used to be "making history" meant someone did something of monumental importance from a historical perspective that was, at the time, simply doing the right thing. "Doing" used to be what was history making, now talking is making history or defining it, or affecting it. This term has certainly been redefined, not by usage, but rather by rhetoric. Talk radio is "making history" by making issues, beating a topic to death and beyond, and changing the course of history, rather than actually doing anything of significance to be noteworthy for future generations. Making history has now become the goal or results of manufacturing hysteria and influencing indoctrination.
I keep hearing that Senator Obama is "making history." I don't see it that way, at all. I remember when Mr. Obama was placed in the center spotlight in 2004 before he was a Senator from Illinois. And I remember when he "decided" and announced that he would run for president. Most people either had no idea who he was, or remembered that he was simply a junior Senator. Well, he played that "junior" deal into "fresh" and "no bad political history," which is sad, because I still don't know who is really behind him, but they, whomever "they" are, are all about making history, go their way!
I now read that Senator Obama is the "democratic choice," but I haven't spent the last two years comatose. I remember when Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity had a "smear Hillary campaign" going, so basically, Obama is the republican pundit choice, not the democratic choice at all. And the sad thing . . . the Obama supporters are oblivious to this fact.
I came to the knowledge, a couple of years ago, that I needed to hear what the pundits were telling "their followers," because it would be history making, and it has been. I so wish the radio listening public would use their own brains, but radio is a special deal. Radio incorporates its message into the subconscious. Few people actually just sit and listen, although I'm sure if there are any radio listeners that fit the "air sucking only, while listening" group, they belong to Sean and Rush. Most people have the radio going while doing other things, and the songs or talk or whatever just permeate the brain like osmosis. Most Rush and Sean fans think they are cerebral, when in fact Rush and Sean know they are appealing not to intelligence, but rather emotion, which is why they tell their listeners, they are informed about the issues. When people are informed, they don't have to be "told," they know.
Now back to this history making. I heard for a fact, the smear campaign against Hillary Clinton by the conservative pundits and we now see the evidence that it worked, and I don't really think the Hillary supporters or the Obama supporters listen to these two guys . . . and yet history proves the past few months have resulted in something totally unpredicted . . . or was it? I would offer in the past few months, history has truly been made and manufactured to suit someone beyond the ones that are on the playing field and certainly beyond the ones being played.
Barrack Obama is not the choice of the Democrats. He is the choice of the pundits, and the pundits are the choice ones to convey and encourage "The American Way," the usual American method . . . default by anger and aggression.
Making history is what's left of the manufacturing industry in America.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. New Testament

Leading the Way

"On the cutting edge" . . . comes to mind for this latest strategy of Texas. When I read this article, I knew there wasn't much I could say. Too many words of mine would only detract from the obvious, so I'll keep my commentary brief and simply include the link.

'Integrity unit' created for Texas justice issues

http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2008Jun04/0,4670,WrongfulConvictions,00.html

Texas, the state that has given us the present administration. Texas, the state that has committed more acts of capital punishment, and releases of wronged imprisonment, due to DNA proof. We certainly can't forget Waco, and this latest fiasco at the FLDS ranch. And the good news about this 'Integrity Unit?' It's being formed from within the Texas legal system. That's right, there have been so many errors, they are going to police themselves . . . I thought that was the reason for so many errors.
All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but YHVH weigheth the spirits. a proverb of Holy Scripture

Now That "Change" is Official . . .

I wrote a blog a couple of weeks ago that outlined my idea of change for Mr. Obama's plan, if he's really talking "change," but for some reason, it didn't post when I wrote it. I'm guessing I did something wrong. At any rate, last night when I realized the error, it posted to the date I wrote it. That means it's buried in all the other timely perspectives, I've written since.
So, I'm going to cut and paste it right here.

CHANGE

Although I hear Senator Obama mention change quite frequently, I'm still not sure just what he has in mind. Maybe I'm not listening well enough or maybe he'll become clearer, once the race is declared officially, or maybe he's like every other politician and saying what it takes to get elected. Only time will tell, but I have an idea that I'd like to share regarding his administration, should he be elected.For the most part, I don't have specific individuals in mind, but I think this plan would truly bring about change in Washington and perhaps reinstate America's, once valued reputation, throughout the world. This next four years, will not be an easy term, what with walking into two wars, a horrible economy, a terrible reputation world wide, and the confidence of most Americans at an all time low. As a matter of fact, the only people happy right now, will be the biggest critics, if Obama wins the election. But at least from the last polls I read, it's only about 30%, so it's not a large group, but it is an angry, aggressive one.Now, here's my suggestion, if Mr. Obama is really going to make change from "politics as usual:"Assemble a different kind of cabinet.VP: Right now, I'm leaning toward Ann Coulter. It's not like the VP really makes decisions or even has to be diplomatic. The present administration has demonstrated that. I realize nobody is discussing race or gender right now, but a white woman on the ticket may not be a bad idea! She said she'd support Hillary if McCain was the Republican nominee and we know Hillary will back Obama, ultimately. That would also give us change, 4 years of Ann Coulter being quiet and polite. The way the pundits discuss patriotism and service to our country, could she refuse?Attorney General: A Public Defender from the MidwestSecretary of State: John Edwards, he's winsome, tactful, and clearly a negotiator to winSecretary of Treasury: The Monopoly ChampionSecretary of Defense: a Grandma that knows how to resolved conflict and take control, butdoesn't believe all differences are solved by violence, and doesn't wanther grandson in someone else's political maneuvers.Secretary of Interior: a Person of Native American DescentSecretary of Agriculture: a Farmer that really farms his land, personallySecretary of Commerce: a Person on a real budgetSecretary of Labor: Someone that has had a real job outside of politicsSecretary of Health and Human Services: a FiremanSecretary of Housing and Urban Development: Someone that started over, without FEMA provision or intervention, either after a storm or foreclosureSecretary of Transportation: a Father of 3 or more teens of driving ageSecretary of Energy: my Dad who taught me water doesn't have run the entire time I'm brushing my teeth and "turn the lights off when you leave the room," retired from Power and Light Co.Secretary of Education: an Elementary Teacher of the Primary Grades that has truly taught what is needed for life and dealt with the reality of educationSecretary of Veteran's Affairs: a Viet Nam vet that served in combat, that wasn't an officerSecretary of Homeland Security: a Mother that has raised toddlers and teenagers,simultaneouslyI realize this list needs some specifics, but it's a start, if politics as usual is on it's way out! This is the one area that I agree with Mr. Obama. Our country was much stronger and certainly more respected before the era of "professional politicians." Actually, according to American history, this country was at it's best when ordinary citizens declared the intent, penned the purpose, and established the laws.The founding fathers were just regular people and Betsy Ross simply knew how to sew.
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us . . . New Testament

Is It Freedom of Religion or Freedom From Religion?

The headlines have been simply harrowing. Of course, you know, I've been quite upset about the FLDS group. I don't agree with their particular views about family matters, but on the other hand, there are many days in a week that I wish some of the women that got "his better effort and money" were doing some of the work around here . . . But my religion grudgingly acknowledges divorce, and the final wife is granted the exclusive right to the all the house work, cooking, and laundry; and is "rewarded" with burned out disinterest. So, aside from the practical consideration of polygamy, I don't think I'd fit in well at the "ranch." But this is America and they are supposed to have the freedom to practice their religion as they see fit, and the Supreme Court of Texas said there was no sign of imminent danger to the children, so "put the families back together!" And to that I applaud and I see the judge that began overseeing this mess, appears to be unhappy with the decision. Before she signs the order to release the children, she wants the mothers to sign . . . Why is it when the powers that be, abuse authority, they want the victims to sign some paper first? I've seen that in cases other than this and frankly, it's a clear case of abuse of authority and the trampling of our First Amendment Rights.
And isn't it interesting that both front running candidates are openly willing to disavow and repudiate their religious associations for the chance at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.?
Just what does this mean for a so called Christian nation that professes the founding of this country to be the Supreme Will of G-D? Sounds like what the powers that be, call those of us that do live by our faith. The claim of America's divine ordination sounds a bit grandiose!
I find it fascinating, that even when people who live by their faith, even if their interpretation is inaccurate, when they line up their obedience with a point of Scripture, it does appear that G-D moves and stands by HIS Word.
Now, we have "wanna be" leaders that will drop their religious associations and affiliations in a heart beat or a sound bite, but . . .
I was truly moved when I read, as the powers that be, invaded with armored tanks and firearms, the people of the FLDS ranch, sang and prayed.
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto G-d: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. New Testament