Thanks for all the fish!

Huh???

2006-08-03T06:32:00.000-05:00

There is a problem in our reporting of what is going on in Isreal, I will illustrate, but let us not forget that the Hezbo's attacked first, and that, where appeasement has been tried, it has not worked.

NY Times from Aug 3, 2006
"In terms of structure and hierarchy, it (Hezbollah) is less comparable to, say, a religious cult like the Taliban than to the multidimensional American civil-rights movement of the 1960’s.
...Israel must take the initiative. Unless it calls off the offensive and accepts a genuine cease-fire, there are likely to be many, many dead Israelis in the coming weeks — and a much stronger Hezbollah. "

So, Hezbo is equal to our civil rights movement?

MSNBC July 29, 2006
"The battle for Bint Jbail has symbolized Israel’s difficulty in pushing guerrillas back from the border, whether by air bombardment or ground assault. Hezbollah on Friday escalated its cross-border attacks, firing longer-range missiles deeper into Israel than ever before.

Lebanese civilians have born the brunt of the Israeli onslaught.

A woman and her children were crushed in their home by a strike outside the market town of Nabatiyeh, which also killed a man in a nearby house, Lebanese security officials said. In another southern town, six bodies were dug from the rubble of a house destroyed by a strike Friday, they said."

I wanted to point this out. Ever notice how the press mentions civilian casualties for Hezbollah but not for Israel. I must congratulate CNN on this point as they listed the Israeli civilian casualties at 23 and wounded at 1100+, but MSNBC would have you believe that it is Israel not Hezbollah who is specifically targeting civilians.

ABC August 1, 2006
"Separately, the UN Security Council on Monday unanimously approved a 30-day extension of the mandate of the existing peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon, the 2,000-strong UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), even though the force has been largely ineffectual in stopping violence.
UNIFIL has been in the area since 1978 but has been powerless to prevent cross-border violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah."

The UN has repeatedly condemned Israel and not Hezbollah since this has started. Even though they have had little effect on keeping the peace.

More to come

Life... Don't talk to me about life...

2006-08-02T06:35:00.000-05:00

Just busy doing stuff, I guess. You know, by the time most of us hit fourty, life will be down to a daily grind of repetitions. It has to be if you are going to be aby good at anything, but it is a bit dull. Anyway, I will try to get on here a little more often.

Why do people fear the Bible?

2006-06-19T07:06:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

You know, I was reading a post on another site where one blogger wrote that he was afraid of the bible. I hadn't spent a whole lot of time on that comment before I realized that I have heard that one before. They seldom can explain why they fear the thing, and usually react in anger or loatheing without really asking the question: Why am I reacting like this?
That is usually when the nearest Christian get's pounced on. Easier to lash out than face what is within. Honesty to yourself is never an easy thing, so kill the messenger. They simply live a life with a phobia they can't shake. It is comfortable, thinking that if they don't believe in the bible it will not be true. Unfortunately, it is like choking yourself to get high, seems like fun, but it is more like drowning, and eventually it is going to kill you.
The problem with the bible is that it is right! Deep down everyone knows this, and that is why it is so feared. Human nature is such that we don't like to be controled, or told what to do. The bible is a big "Do not do these things" list to some. To others, the God of Judgement that is coming with his throne is something they simply don't want to have to deal with. I think that the real problem is that most of us HAVE come to the realization that our lives are comepletely out of hand anyway, and don't want to face it, so we hide behind the other stuff.
When the bible tals about freedom, it uses a different meaning than the world uses. The world says that freedom is the right to do whatever thing you want to do, but that is never the case. You are free to drink all the alchohol you want, but once you are addicted are you free to quit? You are free to look at all the internet pornography you want, but are you free of what it does to your relationship with your wife? You are free eat what you want, but when you weigh 300lbs are you truly free? The world's system of freedom leads to bondages, it leaves with a life of regrets and chains!
The bible's system is completely different. It sets you free to love other people. It sets you free to live without regrets. It really does set you free to be something that you can't even fathom right now, someone who does not HAVE to sin. That is a really uncomfortable concept to grasp.

Joel

UND suing NCAA!!!!

2006-06-16T17:54:00.000-05:00

In the showdown over the use of an American Indian nickname and logo, the NCAA leads its series with the University of North Dakota 3-0.

That is the tagline to the Star Tribune Article.

Overreaction Guy takes over again!!!

I want to suggest to my fellow non-Indian North Dakotans -- those of us whose ancestors came from some other continent, primarily those of us who are white and of European descent -- that we should support the campaign to change the University of North Dakota name and logo not just because it is offensive, exploitative, and racist (it is all of those things) but also for our own sake. Let us do it for our own dignity.

from: http://www.counterpunch.org/jensen10142003.html

We explained that we have a beautiful logo designed by a respected American Indian artist and that we use the nickname with consummate respect – expecting and getting respect for the Sioux culture from our fans. We pointed out that we do not do tomahawk chops, we do not have white guys painted up like Indians, and our fans do not do Indian chants.

In an amazing display of organizational arrogance, Walter Harrison, in answer to the following direct question at a recent news conference:

“Are there incidents the NCAA has recorded where it (UND) appears to be hostile and abusive?" he said, obviously ducking the question entirely:

“Today’s decision was to review whether the staff’s original decision was the right one. We tried to confine ourselves to that. We believe the use of the Fighting Sioux and the mascots [he is apparently still unaware that we do not have one] and imagery [ours was designed by an American Indian] that represents (sic) are hostile and abusive and we don’t believe the University has made a case to the contrary.” [emphasis added]

Evidence? What evidence? Courts tend to dismiss hearsay and to demand and rely on real evidence.

from: http://www.universityrelations.und.edu/logoappeal/openletter_6-07-06.html

It seems that anytime anyone uses something that the "PC" crowd considers inflamatory, regardless of the feelings of the people they portend to protect, they go to open war. UND is an outstanding college, with a pretty good hockey team, and a long history of using the "Fighting Sioux" name and logo. I hope the courts find for the university, the charges are rediculous.

Go UND, fight to continue to use your beautiful logo. This Minnesotan supports you, (even when you do beat SCSU {Saint Cloud State University} in hockey) and wishes you all the best!

Joel

Just listening to Eric Clapton

2006-06-15T23:31:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

Have you ever listened to the song "Wonderful Tonight", by Clapton? I just love the song. Everytime I hear it, it reminds me of my wife, and how much I really do love her. I hope you all have someone like that, and a song that makes you think of all the best things about them.

Good night
Joel

What an Oligarchy looks like?

2006-06-14T07:24:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Tuesday on Jay Leno, it is funny (or scary) enough to be repeated:

First, we had four years of George Bush.

Followed by eight years of Bill Clinton.

Followed by eight years of George HW Bush.

Followed by eight years of Hillary Clinton???

Followed by eight years of Jeb Bush????

Followed by eight years of Chelsea Clinton?!?!?

Followed by eight years of Jeb's son George Bush?!?!?!?!

Basically, if we elect them, it is entirely possible for two families to run the USA from 1988 to 2040, if another relative doesn't run by that time.

Freddy Kruegger would be less scary!!!!

Joel

Channel 5 News on Hurricane Alberto!

2006-06-12T21:48:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

I was watching the news (my mistake), and here we go again! They were reporting on what is now Tropical Storm Alberto "The first named storm of the year". Continuing on the totally alarmist theme, they then reported that a plane had crashed in Florida, and that the "huricane" had caused it! Big letters across the top of the screen,

"ALBERTO CLAIMS FIRST VICTIM"

I mean come on, the FAA hasn't even had time to look into the cause yet. It was only assumed that the heavy rains had something to do with it.

Then... Overreaction guy appeared!!!!

Disguised in the for of mild mannered Governor, Jeb Bush, Overreaction Guy reacted with his normal sadistic glee...
It matters not that there are straight line winds in the plains states that will go over 100mph. It matters not that the rainfall total will not even be close to what any larger huricane could produce!!! Overreaction Guy demanded the evacuation of the coast!!! People running from thier houses, it is utter mayhem!!! Call out the national guard... hold it, they are in Iraq, call out FEMA, a squirrel might drown!!! Why, it has already claimed the life of one man who could not control his plane under Alberto's torrential downpours!!!

Seriously though, the press would have you believe what I wrote above, and reported it accordingly. What happened in New Orleans last year was a true disaster, lets not cheapen the real lives that were torn up by it by reporting every other tropical storm as the next Katrina!

Joel

Thanks for nothing Roland...

2006-06-12T17:55:00.000-05:00

You Are Big Bird

Talented, smart, and friendly... you're also one of the sanest people around.

You are usually feeling: Happy. From riding a unicycle to writing poetry, you have plenty of hobbies to keep you busy.

You are famous for: Being a friend to everyone. Even the grumpiest person gets along with you.

How you life your life: Joyfully. "Super. Duper. Flooper."

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

I should have gone... anywhere else...

Well, at least I am not Elmo!!!

Joel

Is the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi a good thing?

2006-06-09T07:06:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

I was watching the news yesterday, when I first got the news that terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi had been destroyed. Congratulations to our military men and women serving in Iraq. I figured that we would see people dancing in the streets of America, celebrating this huge success.

Instead, CBS had a retired CIA agent who was asking if the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi would cause the terrorists to focus on Americans instead of Shiites. Focusing on depleting our support for our troops instead of focusing on starting a civil war. It was even said that our troops would have been safer if he had not been killed. Really makes you wonder what would cause CBS to say "good job" to the military.

Joel

Hi All

2006-05-11T21:25:00.000-05:00

I have been extremely busy of late. See, I hurt my back, back in December, and I have had to be job hunting instead of blogging. I hope to get back to this on a regular basis soon. In the mean time, if I come across something silly, I will let you know

Joel

Ted is in town! He asked to Post!

2006-04-18T06:46:00.000-05:00

Hi Guys,
The Harlem Globetrotters are in Minneapolis, and I just had to go see them. While I am in Minnesota, I figured I would stop by and say Hi!

You know, I have been hearing that there are these military officers that left the military that are calling for Donald Rumsfeld to step down and think he should resign. I think that is a great idea. I know that jobs like that have tons of pressure, and a guy needs to relax, you know, get his head clear. Nothing clears the head like going down into deeper water. The pressure, the dark and the cold, you are isolated and can get some time to think. I wasn't under the impression that going down steps had the same effect for you guys, but since the generals think tht Mr Rumsfeld has been grumpy, it must.
So Mr Rumsfeld, if you want my advice, go down some steps for a few days, get your head clear and then sign back up and get back to helping the President protect the country. Oh, and maybe you can suggest the "Basketballs for Dolphins" legislation, call it recycling or something. Drop them off the Navy ships, we would always appreciate that.

Oh, and fish too...
Ted

(I don't think Ted gets the concept... Joel)

Another load of Carp!!!!

2006-04-14T06:36:00.000-05:00

A 26 year old Denver woman was jailed and held overnight last Sunday for not getting the right permits before getting a new garage door. I know, she lives in an historic district, but when are we gonna stand up and tell the government that enough is enough! Sending someone to jail for fixing thier house is stupid. I have a friend (he can identify himself if he wants to) who couldn't fix the siding on his house because it was cedar shake and way too expensive to replace. He lived in an historic district, could not use cheaper materials because of the houses historic value of the house. Basically the city would have no problem with it if he lived 3 blocks over, but not here, they would rather see it rot. The worst thing about this type of government idiocy, is that noone goes to these neighborhoods to see the "historic" homes. There are places that people go to see. I was all for repairing Ellis Island, but noone goes on trips to Denver to see the historic "Mapleton Hill Area". Which means that the value of it being a historic area is in nostalgia, not history! They still picked her up while she was getting ready for church over a garage door.

Joel

Anyone want to bet this guy doesn't have a girlfriend?

2006-04-11T22:45:00.000-05:00

I don't even want to know the odds on that bet.

Joel

Pollute The Environment, Stop Global Warming!!!

2006-04-10T21:52:00.000-05:00

"Research presented at a major European science meeting adds to other evidence that cleaner air is letting more solar energy through to the Earth's surface."

That's right, you clean American! You are screwing up the environment by not polluting enough!

"Reduced air pollution and increased water evaporation appear to be adding to man-made global warming."

Now this makes total sense to everyone! If man wasn't here, then we wouldn't pollute, hence the air would be... cleaner... wait, how can this be man made then...

"Between the 1950s and 1980s, the amount of solar energy penetrating through the atmosphere to the Earth's surface appeared to be declining, by about 2% per decade.
This trend received some publicity under the term "global dimming".
But in the 1980s, it appears to have reversed, according to two papers published last year in the journal Science."

Yep, that's right, since the 1980's we have been too clean!!!

"There is always this argument that maybe the whole temperature rise wasn't due to greenhouse warming but due to solar variations," he (Martin Wild from the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science (IACETH) in Zurich) told the BBC News website.

What do you mean, that the whole global warming thing might be something that was just made up to spend money?!?!?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/main.jhtml?xml=/opinion/2006/04/09/do0907.xml&sSheet=/news/2006/04/09/ixworld.html
Then there is this, fromt he daily telegraph above:

"Consider the simple fact, drawn from the official temperature records of the Climate Research Unit at the University of East Anglia, that for the years 1998-2005 global average temperature did not increase (there was actually a slight decrease, though not at a rate that differs significantly from zero)."

Ummm... ummm... anyone else getting the giggles....

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/56456.stm
"Careful studies over the last 20 years show that its overall brightness and energy output increases slightly as sunspot activity rises to the peak of its 11-year cycle.
And individual cycles can be more or less active.
The sun is currently at its most active for 300 years."

So basically, the sun is causing global warming??? Or is it man made??? Or is it man being too clean??? Or is it not happening at all???

Will someone who knows what the hell they are talking about please stand up?!?!?
Politicians need not apply...
Joel

Why is it that we like George Bush?

2006-04-09T14:32:00.000-05:00

You know, I was talking to a liberal friend and he made a good point (I am hiding so Difster won't shoot me). His point is: "Why do you guys like Geeorge Bush, anyway?"

Well, honestly, I have to say that I am sick of having elections where we have a socialist verses a Republican Leftist. The Republican Party has been spending money like drunken sailors, and lately things are getting worse. It would be nice to have a Republican leader who would stand up for what he believes in. I think I will be praying for another Ronald Reagan to come along!

Joel

Observations from the fish bowl

2006-03-31T17:49:00.000-06:00

guppy -> yuppy... same thing different specie

You ever notice that some things just don't make sense...

Barry Bonds was very upset that he was in the book, "Game of Shadows", but instead of suing for Libel, he sued because they obtained the information illegally.
We don't argue with what is being said, just THAT it is being said...

Duke University's Lacrosse team reportedly gang raped an exotic dancer. Proving that it isn't just a Viking Football issue.

http://www.csmonitor.com/2006/0324/p03s03-uspo.html
Headline, according to the above site: "Ethics reforms stalling in congress"
Are we more surprised that congress can't clean itself up, or that the words "Ethics" and "Congress" got used in the same sentence?

Look a company that believes in the Hitchhikers Guide, or else, is as convoluted as the hitchhiker's guide....
http://www.innovativebrains.com/oando/

http://www.everythingisnt.com/archives/00002353.htm
Meanwhile back at the ranch, it's the "Sponge Bob" contraceptive sponge...

And for our flying friends... the Bird Diaper!
http://www.delphion.com/details?pn=US05934226__

well, enough silliness for now, bon appetite!

Joel

Well educated stay at home mom??? You should be ashamed!

2006-03-30T20:49:00.000-06:00

"We care because what they do is bad for them, is certainly bad for society, and is widely imitated, even by people who never get their weddings in the Times," (Linda) Hirshman wrote. "This last is called the 'regime effect,' and it means that even if women don't quit their jobs for their families, they think they should and feel guilty about not doing it."

Hirshman also said educated women choosing to stay home was bad for them as individuals.

"A good life for humans includes the classical standard of using one's capacities for speech and reason in a prudent way, the liberal requirement of having enough autonomy to direct one's own life, and the utilitarian test of doing more good than harm in the world," Hirshman wrote. "Measured against these time-tested standards, the expensively educated, upper-class moms will be leading lesser lives."

What a load of Carp!

That a mother would wish to stay home with her children and pour her hard earned and paid for education into her children is terrible for America! Who would want such a low life as this?!?! I mean, the audacity of some women to try to undo what years of feminism has accomplished!!!

Who is Linda Hirshman trying to kid? The fact is a majority of women WANT to have children and pay the price it takes to raise them. I can't believe that, after fighting so long to give the woman the right to work outside the home, that the feminists would sink so low as to call women who choose to stay home, stupid. Never-the-less, this is what that line of thinking leads to: You have the right to choose as long as you choose my way. We have seen this before in a lot of areas, and will see it again. In this case, however, we have to thank the courageous women of America for standing up for their right to put their children first!

Thank You!!!

somethings rotten here...

2006-03-21T06:17:00.000-06:00

This is a whole plate of rotten fish. Family farms in Minnesota are being denied the right to expand thier livestock operations in droves. Citing environmental issues, farmers who would normally meet the requirements for expansion are denied permits from the local townships. The things these farmers are being told are rediculous.

Quote: “Karen was told by the county attorney [the third permit application] was denied because the chances of the county being sued by the opposition was greater than of the Altenburgs suing them.” Mike Altenburg

Quote: “It is a doubled-edged sword they want cheap food and yet if they don’t allow these buildings to be built out in the country we’re going to end up with awfully high priced food before long if we have to truck it in from South Dakota or who knows where in the world.” Curt Oeltjenbruns, Havanna Township Board Chairman who resigned because of all the stress over the barns {Deml Brothers expansion case)

Outcome: Ripley Dairy has had to pay $135,000 in legal fees and has spent $225,000 in engineering, environmental review and other costs associated with obtaining the necessary permissions for construction. The plan has been tabled for now and investors are considering locations in other states.
Quote: “We appreciate the expressions of support that many have given to us and to this dairy. We know it was a dream shared by many. We will continue to challenge elected officials and business owners to make the changes necessary to help dairy farmers improve their businesses in Minnesota while protecting everyone’s rights and the environment.” Bill Rowekamp

This describes just how rediculous this whole issue has become. Minnesota farmers being forced to spend up to several hundred thousand dollars to do a legal thing! Meanwhile, these city folk moving out to the country are complaining about the smell. Well, stay in the city where you belong, and let the farmers do what they need to do to survive!

Joel

Interview with a Dolphin...

2006-03-20T19:55:00.000-06:00

Q: So what is your name...
A: Ted

Q: Just Ted?
A: Yup.

Q: So, what's it like being a dolphin?
A: What kind of a stupid question is that? How could I possibly descibe being a dolphin to someone who is finless?!?!? It would be like me asking you to tell me about dancing, where would my frame of referance be... hmmm... lemme think.
Well, I guess it is alot of swimming and playing with balls... and eating... Fish is great, sometimes I even get shrimp, but I think I like Doritos best.

Q: When do you get Doritos?
A: Well there is this fisherman, likes to see me do backflips. Gives lots of Doritos for backflips.

Q: So, you like fishermen?
A: Well, not all of them, just the ones that give me fish, or Doritos, or Cheese puffs... I like those. Oh, and there is this one fisherman that lets me watch tv, puts it on the side of the boat, and he brings me a basketball, I like basketball alot.

Q: Watch tv... what do you watch on tv???
A: Sports, of course. I love Basketballl, it is very cool, and baseball is good. Soccer would be better if they made the ball a little less blah, and Football, who thought up the ugly oblong brown thing there... Of course they do have a team named after me, so they can't be all bad.

Q: Who are your favorite teams then?
A: Well, lemme think... Harlem Globetrotters... for basketball, ummm, Mariners and Giants for Baseball... Dolphins of course... yeah, that's about it.

Q: Why?
A: Why what?
Q: Why do you like those teams?
A: Well, the globetrotters enjoy playing with a basketball as much as I do. Love the Orange ball, best thing ever invented. You don't happen to have one with you do you? I would love to have a basketball, don't need a basket, the ball will do. Sorry, got sidetracked, I always do when I think of basketballs... big orange beatifully striped, basketballs.
Lemme see, baseball, well, the giants built this neat stadium where they could send balls out to me and my friends. There are usually too many boats to get them, but I personally appreciate the effort. The Mariners are just cool, and many mariners are friends of mine so I figured I would root for the team named after my friends. The rest should be obvious.

Q: Anything you want to say to all the Blogosphere?
A: Sure, eat dolphin free tuna... Ah heck, just go out and buy yourself a basketball, and quit working so hard at life. I mean, life needs a couple of backflips and basketballs from time to time. You humans need to lighten up...
Oh, and lay off the squirrels before they try an armed revolt, they are a little hyper, and are getting fed up with those bird feeders they can't get into.

Hostile Takeover of this Blog!!!

2006-03-19T13:54:00.000-06:00

Well, Hi All,

You know, I am of two minds about this... The serious side of me that likes writing all of the Bible study stuff has taken over this Blog. Unfortunately, this led to my silly side revolting. After a short skirmish my serious side left for http://my-bible-stuff.blogspot.com/ and can be found there. Meanwhile this site is under proper ownership and the fishiness is taking back over. We apologize for the incovenience.

Joel... and Joel...

I think :D

March Madness

2006-03-16T06:57:00.000-06:00

Just when you think that people being crazy over sports is over with the Super Bowl, this shows up. College Basketball's tournament! The Brackets... The Suspense...

Hold on..
there is no suspense, the #1 or #2 teams win on a majority of the time.
An as for the brackets, I think this is just an excuse for 100,000 office pools.

Honestly, the frenzies we work ourselves into in the name of entertainment. Wasting tons of time watching sports... But here I am digressing on the computer again...

Joel

To expand on my last point

2006-03-11T21:26:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

In a recent conversation with Difster I had a revelation about my last point, another anology to clarify it.

Life with Jesus is like driving on a road. As long as you keep your eyes on the road, you know where you are going and how you are getting there. The minute you look at the floor, you have no idea what is going on. It's like this, you are rolling on down the road of your life, and something from the back seat rolls into your foot (a temptation). What you do about it is important. If you try to kick it away, (fight it with your own power) it will just roll back into your foot. If you reach down to get it, and try to keep looking at the road (sin, but try to keep your eyes on the target) you never know if you can recover in time to keep from crashing into the car in front of you. I you take your eyes off of the target all together and reach down, look at what it is that is bothering you and get it out of there(fall into the sin and self loathing that follows the sin), you will probably crash bad. If you ask God to take the thing away, and keep your eyes upon the road, He might leave it there, but there is no temptaion that has come upoon you that His blood has not already defeated. He promised He won't leave you hanging, so just trust in Him.

Joel

OK, back to my take on things

2006-03-07T19:04:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

You know, thinking of God and all, I have this point.

Most people have seen those wonderful pictures out of the gulf war of a Patriot missle nailing a SCUD and the following explosion. I personally like explosions, but I digress. The first thing I have noticed; the Patriot is never on target until it reaches it's end. The second thing I noticed is that it constantly corrects itself by keep it's "eye" fixed upon it's target. Never for a second is it's focus on anything else.

Also, I have, in one of my jobs, been trained in finding counterfeit monies. It is simple, study the real thing until you know it inside and out. The counterfeit will show itself easily when you know what the real ones are.

There is a practical application to this. First, the path to heaven is not in being perfect., but in not losing sight of your savior. You are not lost if you sin, though you should try not to, but when you take your eyes off of your target (Jesus) and put them on your sin, you no longer have any direction. Becoming Christlike is not to be found in not sinning, but in not breaking your relationship with Him. This is why He put such an emphasis on love over holiness, because obedience to the law cannot get you to heaven, only show you how impossible it is to get there. "He who has broken one of the commandments is guilty off all of them" "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Only the love of our God is capable of salvation (John 3:16), only our relationship with Him, and our focus on Him can keep us on the right track.

The second point is this. The majority of converts to the Mormon religion are Baptists. Simply put, the church, not just Baptists, but a majority of the churches in America have done a woeful job of teaching the scriptures. This means you will have to learn it on your own. There is no reason that the Mormons should know more about our scriptures than we do, and convert people. Another poll shows the a majority of Evangelical teenagers do not believe that there is absolute truth. There is no reason that eastern philosophies should enter our lives, like, "there is no truth" while we have the real truth.

Study to show yourselves approved!

Joel

To Anonymous

2006-03-04T20:20:00.000-06:00

Well, I am now telling you to leave anonymous.

#1 If you think you have a legal reason to come after me for criminal defamation, please, by all means, do.

#2 You have never once shown any sense of remorse for the loss of friendship and fellowship with Ron and Shad, and even with Ron asking for prayer for Tamara, you never even asked if she was alright. You feel that love and judgement are equals.

#3 You post as anonymous, thinking that anonymous = anonymity: However, just the fact that I know you are using a Macintosh Power PC should put that to rest.

#4 You insult and abuse anyone who disagrees with you. I happen to have all posts to this blog (including deleted ones) saved to file with the accompanying IP address. (That is the specific number that your server gives to your computer when you log on the web)

#5 You say that you wish to resolve the matter with Ron and Tamara, then say that the leadership won't meet with them when they offer to play by your rules. This action proves once and for all that you are not interested in reconcilliation, but in proving your own self-righteous ends.

#6 You refuse to accept any wrongdoing, either in what you have posted on any blog, or your emails, even though you have debased anyone who disagrees with you.

#7 The points you make are rediculous. You condemn all evangelical as a group, along with Catholics and any number of other groups. You call your own personal bias as law without a single use of scripture or specific offence. The appropriate word is Stereotyping, but I think that Devisive will work just as well.

#8 You speak of how "loving" and "kindness" as something anyone who disagrees with you does not have. Even though you are the one who continually call others names and disputes points on a random and seemingly nonsensical basis.

#9 This blog belongs to me, not you, you want to say whatever you want, get your own and quit using mine!

#10 Finally, you have harrassed and debased both Shad and Ron. All the while thinking that you are legally covered since you have posted as anonymous. Unfortunately, you are naive on this point, the bigger issue is whether or not the church, since the arguement originates there, and you, by virtue of you husband being on the board, are an agent thereof, is legally liable for your comments. Your incessant attacks against Shad especially have crossed the line and should be reffered to the County Attorney's office. You have no shame in anything that you have so publically written. This is made worse when you realize that everything you have written traces right back to your Mac. The email you sent referencing the blog was not the brightest move either. Go away and leave Ron and his family and Shad alone.

Joel

Great points from Anon!

2006-03-02T06:39:00.000-06:00

Socialists promote secular econonic, governmental socialism under the guises of promoting "good works," that is, humanitarian aid for "the common man."

"Socialism: a political and economic philosophy that commonly emphasizes government control and redistribution of wealth over personal responsibility and private ownership, often goes hand-in-hand with secularist attitudes and a generally non-biblical worldview." --- American Family Journal, January 2005.

That is, socialism is partly the long term, endless support of everyones' basic needs regardless of need or poverty, regardless of personal effort, and regardless of poor personal choices through redistribition of wealth and even increasing taxes -- and through non-judgemental humanistic government programs and distribution to all. Communism is a further extreme of socialism, in that every the government ownes all property.

This is contrary to the Bible where the spiritually poor are the primary focus of the believers over the social gospel, i.e., the latter is not the gospel at all but socialists would have Christians believe it is and that the social gospel (i.e. good works) is the primary focus of Christianity.

But according to the Bible, when it comes to helping the economically poor, Christian humanitarian help is distributed through the church, not secular government. And the aid goes, for examples, to those who are truly needy, economically or otherwise, and willing to work (unless unable, of course), which means the aid should not be endless, but more temporary.

Christian social help or counseling should be biblically based and moral. Government social couseling and aid are often not.
"Now we've got a mess on our hands," he said, "and it's really our fault. So we've got to change that. We've got to repent before God. We've got to go back and understand that worldview means God is interested in everything He created."

Smithwick's worldview test consists of a series of statements carefully designed to identify a person's worldview in five categaories: Politics, Economics, Eduction, Religion, and Social Issures (PEERS). Each statement is framed to either agree or disagree with a biblical principle.

Concerned parents and ministers can order the PEERS test and find out more about safeguarding the education of their children at the orgainzation's Web site, www.nehemiahinstitute.com.

"Socialism: a political and economic philosophy that commonly emphasizes government control and redistribution of wealth over personal responsibility and private ownership, often goes hand-in-hand with secularist attitudes and a generally non-biblical worldview." --- AFA Journal, January 2005.

Christian kids drift toward secularism in public schools

Research continues to reveal some disturbing trends regarding beliefs held by Christian students after spending time in public schools.

Dan Smithwick, founder and president of the Nehemiah Institute, a group that provides a biblical worldview testing and training service to Christian educators, developed the "PEERS test," a tool to assess the worldviews of young people. He said the majority of public school students from evangelical Christian homes consistently score in the "socialist" category on the test.

He noted that socialism, a political and economic philosophy that commonly emphasizes government control and redistribution of wealth over personal responsibiboity and private ownership, often goes hand-in-hand with secularist attitudes and a generally non-biblical worldview.

The cause of this problem, Smithwick said, is that Christians have allowed secularists to take over public education in America.

"Now we've got a mess on our hands," he said, "and it's really our fault. So we've got to change that.

Everything that I posted yesterday was about the Church operating for the good of all in the church, and for those outside of it who are in need, not giving the responsibility to the government. For instance, my church in St Cloud has a food shelf, that is not government run, but benefits both those in the church and in the community around. Several members come and cut hair once a month so that those who cannot afford it can get a hair cut too.

However, I do not know of any church that professes the blood of Jesus for salvation that feels that public education is moral. And government welfare is a rediculous exercise in keeping people poor and reliant on the government. I can not even refute his comment on socialist households, since the last poll I saw of Evangelical homes said that 54% of those in Sr High School did not believe that there was an absolute truth. We have indeed done a woeful job of raising our children!

Vis

Socialism in the church???

2006-03-01T07:03:00.000-06:00

I have come to the realization that this one would have to be addressed, especially in light of the "socialism and politics decievingly translated into Christian and Biblical terms." I wonder if we are discussing things like:

Ephesians 4:
28 Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.

Matthew 25:
34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
41 “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’
44 “Then they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45 Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Matthew 5:
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

Acts 2:
44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

Acts 4:
34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

1 John 3:
17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 19 And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. 20 For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. 22 And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment

God can speak without my help.
Joel

Matthew 18:15-20

2006-02-28T06:31:00.000-06:00

Since we have had so much theological stuff written here in the last week, I think I should address some of it.

Matthew 18:
15 “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ 17 And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.
18 “Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
19 “Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”

First, this is about restoration, not judgement. We know this because of what Jesus said elsewhere:

Luke 17:
1 Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. 3 Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”

So we have a clear idea in how to handle someone who is sinning against us.
#1: Approach him with it. Tell him the offense and give him a chance to repent. If he repents, YOU WIN! You gain if he repents, so forgive him!
#2: If he doesn't repent, you are to return with another who is in agreement with you. This is for a different reason.
#2a: Two or more people establishes the truth of it. If you have two or more witnesses it meets the bible's burden of proof, and not just in Matthew:

Dueteronomy 19
15 “One witness shall not rise against a man concerning any iniquity or any sin that he commits; by the mouth of two or three witnesses the matter shall be established."

#2b: There is also a practicle side to this, it is far more difficult to stand in front of two and deny what they saw, or lie about it.
#3:If he still doesn't repent, bring him before the church (not the board, or a group of members, but the church!). This becomes a court seen, but is necessary to keep someone from going, "What ever happened to Bubba?" Then they go seeking Bubba, and Bubba's influence returns to the church, which can quickly cause a church to split.
#4: If he still in unrepentant, even in front of the church; all the church breaks fellowship with him! This is really important, as humans are social animals. Cutting fellowship with friends is a very powerful corrective force, especially when missing that contact sets in. It gives him a time to think, and search himself. It also removes his influence from the church, which is also important.

One very important reason for this system is that it keeps the church from being drug through public mud. What happens in a church should stay in that church, not in the courts of man. Another reason for this method, it gives a concrete way of dealing with sin. Sin is ugly, and needs to be dealt with, just remember that when you deal with it, you do it in a loving manner.

1 John 4
7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.
1 John 3
11 For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, 12 not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous.

Joel

To you wandering Bloggers

2006-02-27T17:10:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Alot of wierd things happened here in the last week. Two posts, which were so mean spirited that they had to be taken down, have been referenced in another post. That is why you will not find the root reference on this site.

Hope this keeps the confusion out.
Joel

When can we be Judge and Jury?

2006-02-27T06:40:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Well, in light of recent posts I think I need to tackle this issue. There are some things that we are allowed to be judgmental toward. Now at this point some may be thinking:

Matthew 7:
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. 3 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

This verse is about the sin in each of our lives. For Example: If I have fallen into an alchohol problem, you, if you are my brother or sister do not have the right to judge me for it. This is because you also have sin in your live (the plank in your own eye). But you definately are to say something about it to me.

James 5:
19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul^[f] from death and cover a multitude of sins.

The basic use of this is, "Joel, I have noticed you have been drinking alot again. You know that being drunk is sin, can we help you get free of this." NOT "Joel, you are drunk all the time, you idiot, are you trying to get God angry with you, or what? How can you call yourself saved and live like that?"

Ok, the examples are extreme, but I did that for a reason. The first example focused on the activity, the second on the person. You can judge the sin, not the sinner.

But can we really discern whether someone is saved or not? Would be kinda nice to know who is and who is not a brother or sister.

Sure we can! Look at these verses:

Matthew 7:
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

Matthew 10:
16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves."

Christ told us that there would be people who would claim to be Christian, even believe that they are, but would be posing as one:

Matthew 7:
22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

So what fruits are we supposed to look for, what is the criteria?:

1 John 4:
7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

Galatians 5:
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Ahh, the fruit we are to look for! This is what a Christian acts like, what makes them different, even obvious! So is the fruit of the flesh!

Galatians 5:
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

God tells us how to tell, remember;
Behavior not people!
It is the activities and words that define who we are. The outward fruit that is on the tree.
Joel

To Ron and Shad

2006-02-26T21:27:00.000-06:00

I want to issue a personal apology to the both of you, had I known that anonymous would have gone this far I never would have started it. I have no doubt that you are both saved, and that you serve the living God. Please do not let the comments of one so obviously deluded tarnish your faith.

Again, please forgive me,
Joel

To Anonymous

2006-02-26T20:36:00.000-06:00

Who do you think you are?!?!?

"Because you are so desperate for friendship and follow any human wind of doctrine, I believe you aren't saved and until you are, spiritual matters will be undiscernable to you, even though you may now think you are saved."

You now place yourself in the place of GOD to decide who is saved or not?!?!?

"You feel lonely, and so you hook up with anyone who will offer you frendship and any theological perspective, right or wrong."

You say that you are without sin in this matter and write this?!?!?

"Ron USED your friendship for his own rebellious purposes."

You say the you are not operating on Hearsay, where is your proof of this?!?!?

Your comments are inflammitory, malicious and dead wrong. You have crossed the line, let me show you where the line is!

Exodus 20:16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Mathew 22:37Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

38This is the first and great commandment.

39And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

40On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

609.749 Harassment; stalking; penalties.

Subdivision 1. Definition. As used in this section,
"harass" means to engage in intentional conduct which:

(1) the actor knows or has reason to know would cause the
victim under the circumstances to feel frightened, threatened,
oppressed, persecuted, or intimidated; and

(2) causes this reaction on the part of the victim.

Subd. 1a. No proof of specific intent required. In a
prosecution under this section, the state is not required to
prove that the actor intended to cause the victim to feel
frightened, threatened, oppressed, persecuted, or intimidated,
or except as otherwise provided in subdivision 3, paragraph (a),
clause (4), or paragraph (b), that the actor intended to cause
any other result.

    Subd. 2.    Harassment and stalking crimes.  (a) A
person who harasses another by committing any of the following
acts is guilty of a gross misdemeanor:

(6) repeatedly mails or delivers or causes the delivery by
any means, including electronically, of letters, telegrams,
messages, packages, or other objects; or

Sinceit is now obvious that you are unrepentant and willing and able to say anything regardless of how personally damaging, I now make this request.

#1 That you no longer post on this site, or any other site run by Ron or Shad.
#2 That you cease any further email, mail or phone contact from you or any other officer of your church to the afore mentioned parties.
#3 That you stay away from the afore mentioned parties as much as it is in your power.

At one point you sent 10 emails to Ron in one day. You have caused increased anxiety to both Ron and his family, and to Shad; and your activities in disputing this disagreement between Ron and Shad and the church which you are an officer of is under Minnesota Law, harrassment. Continuing these activities after this point could result in legal action against both you and the church that your husband is an officer of.

The reasons are:
Your lack of intention to restore the relationship.
Your lack of ability to accept that you are partly at fault.
Your lack of ability to accept even a scriptural rebuke.

I pray that God will eventually get through to you.
Joel

Note to Anonymous

2006-02-24T22:33:00.000-06:00

Dear Anonymous,

Ok, then, time for a new string, since the other is getting too long.

Here are my two questions for you:
#1: What are you looking to gain from this discussion?
#2: What would it take for you to consider this discussion ended?

Joel

To God be the Glory... but on my terms!

2006-02-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

This is a personal vent. There is a church up here (in the St. Cloud, MN area) that feels that it is right, regardless of the Bible. They feel that love is secondary in the nature of God to holiness! They hold the law is stronger than forgiveness, and worst of all, they feel it necessary to harrass people.

After leaving several anonymous posts on one blog site, the site administrator took it down. Then they started on another blog. They also sent a large number of personal emails to several people (including myself). After having 2 different pastors (not from the church in question) converse with the person leaving the posts and emails, they still think they are right.

What started this whole mess? Well, in one case, it was some sort of list, given to another person, detailing how he should dress and act. In the other, the Pastor is reported to have told them that if they wanted to keep doing what they were doing at the church they would have to obey what the pastor said.

This whole thing went further than this, people were told not to talk or email certain people who didn't agree with everything the church taught. They were told that the Pastors interpretation of scripture was correct in all cases. They were also taught that any people or church who didn't conform to thier beliefs would have to be disassociated with.

You know, there are many of us who would wish to be disassociated with. Basically, this church, which is a branch of Baptist, runs more like a cult.
1: Noone has the right to tell the pastor he is wrong.
2: Anyone who disagree's is subject to verbal correction, which in this case was over the line of harrassment.
3: Any other body that might give a different view is disassociated with.

Sound Familiar? It should, it is right out of a cult handbook. They also only use the King James Version of the Bible. I don't want to debate the King James only deal, I just say that to point out that the Mormon's and the Jehovah's Witnesses also print and distribute the King James. The language is difficult enough to be usable to decieve.

In closing, I will give this generic warning.
If your church says it is the only way to God or Heaven, get a new church!
Christ is the only way!
If your church says it has some new grasp of the truth, get a new church!
Christ is the ONLY truth and HE DOES NOT CHANGE!!!
If your church sets a bunch of rules that aren't in the Bible, get a new church!
The Bible says, "For freedom's sake, Christ has set you free"

2 Timothy 2:15 (New Living Translation)

15Work hard so God can approve you. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.

You need to know the words of truth to explain them. Work hard, know it, memorize it, and live by it!!!

Vis

Olympic Triumph, and Bryant Gumble

2006-02-18T19:52:00.000-06:00

So try not to laugh when someone says these are the world’s greatest athletes, despite a paucity of blacks that makes the Winter Games look like a GOP convention. - Bryant Gumble

Someone should tell Mr Gumble that the Olympics aren't about racial issues. The Olympics are about Athletes like Shani Davis, the first black man to win winter olympic gold. They are about 52-year-old Werner Hoeger, the only representitive fron Venezuela; or Erjon Tola, Albania's sole olympian, or Patrick Singleton from Bermuda, or Robel Teklemariam from Ethiopia, or any number of other examples who had no chance of winning a gold, but came because they wanted thier country represented.

I guess, to be blunt, I have more of a problem when some self-serving rich dude craps on someone else's parade because of his personal problems. These are the worlds greatest in thier sports. If Bryant Gumble thinks there should be more black's competing, maybe he should pony up and go for it, or encourage and fund someone who is.

Vis

Daunte's Inferno (or gimme 10 mil)

2006-02-16T21:29:00.000-06:00

Daunte Culpepper, after such a terrific season, asked for an additional 10 million dollars today. The Vikings said they would trade him. Congrats to the Vikings, it is about time.

After the 2002 season there were people who questioned his intelligence.
After the 2005 season it is no surprise that the same critics are still here.

Daunte has a problem reading defenses, but with Randy Moss in the lineup, he only saw one defense. The opposing defenses also had to give him time to throw. If they didn't, Culpepper-Moss touchdown.
Life without Moss became a different thing. Culpepper looked hapless in the pocket, taking more sacks in the last three games he played than the team took the rest of the year! He also threw twice as many interceptions as touchdowns.
The Minnesota Vikings will be a better team without Daunte Culpepper than with him. So good luck on the trading block!

Thug Mania

2006-02-08T06:52:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

I tend to enjoy it when people show thier true colors. "In this corner" we have radical Islam, which seems to be the only Islam, rioting over a cartoon. Several dead in Afghanistan, and in the local paper we had a picture of a woman holding a sign stating, "No one has the right to mock Islam"

"And in this corner" A few years back, Andres Serrano had his work, "Jesus in urine" in a New York museum. Did Christian's riot? Was thier a worldwide outcry and violence against US embassy's in Catholic nations like Argentina, Brazil, and Italy?

Why such a dramatic difference? Even in the light of the nature of the two offences (the New York exhibit also had the Virgin Mary covered in dung). Could you imagine a representation of Allah in urine and Mohammed covered in dung??? The fact is, Islam is no different than a street gang, using violence to get whatever they want. The definition of a thug.

Vis

Nahum 1:7

2006-02-01T20:57:00.000-06:00

The Lord is Good.
A stronghold in the day of trouble;
And He knows those who trust Him.
NKJV

What a statement! He knows us, and He is our defense.
What happens when everything goes wrong?
What about when we are tortured for our faith, or killed?
He knows us, and He is our defense!
That does not mean that he will take us out of our situations,
But he will take us through them.
Truly the Lord is good!

Obadiah

2006-02-01T19:29:00.000-06:00

Obadiah is God's letter to the sons of Esau. When I was reading it yesterday, God showed me some things. I don't claim this as the Word of God, just my interpretation. Feel free to disagree, and comment, that's what blogging is all about.

To the sons of Esau, the Edomites, Islam, who dwells in the mountains.
You shall be despised! Your pride has decieved you. Oh, how you will be searched out, how your hidden treasuries will sought after. All those who have worked with you will turn back upon you, and your mighty men will be dismayed.
This will be done to you because of what you have to your brother, Jacob. You shouldn't have watched as they were destroyed. The day the armies came and carried them away. You shouldn't have celebrated over thier destruction, or sold them out when the Nazis took them to them to the camps. You shouldn't have entered Jerusalem and built your "Dome of the Rock." You shouldn't have hunted down the remnant, nor blocked the rouds when they tried to escape.
For the Lord is coming quickly to judge the nations. The reproach that you have yelled from the rooftops will be returned to you. As you drank the blood of God's children, so will I send all the nations to drink yours. The house of Jacobs shall posess all that you now have.

Vis

Zephaniah 3:14-15

2006-01-30T22:54:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

14 Sing, O daughter of Zion!
Shout, O Israel!
Be glad and rejoice with all your heart,
O daughter of Jerusalem!
15 The LORD has taken away your judgments,
He has cast out your enemy.
The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst;
You shall see disaster no more.

This is our reality, an image of a coming age, in the shadow of which we now live.
Jesus has taken away our sins, if you trust in Him.
Jesus has defeated our enemy (Satan), and Satan's reign here is a limited engagement.
We are bound for heaven, which is our home now!
What can happen to us here that can make the joy of that hope evaporate?
Yes, Lord, we will sing, and we will shout, we will rejoice, for you have set us free!!!

Vis

memoirs of a soldier

2006-01-30T22:20:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

If you get the chance, my good friend Todd, who is a US Army Chaplain, is heading for Iraq. He has been blogging for a couple of weeks now. Take the time to visit his blog, it is well worth it.

Vis

You gotta see this

2006-01-28T11:19:00.000-06:00

http://haloscan.com/tb/bfriend13/113828870268972031
To Amigo's blog

I will make no attempt to describe what you will find. Follow the links, Amigo has it set up, and you will find Saddam Hussein Videos. Don't watch if you are squeamish and for the love of all things good don't let young children watch this.

Thanks for the heads up amigo!

Why a flat tax

2006-01-28T01:38:00.000-06:00

What a question...

Q: Why should we do away with the 16th amendment to the constitution?
A: To permanently remove the ability of the US government to charge income tax.

Q: How would the government get money then?
A: The government would tax the good and services we purchase.

Q: Why is that a better way of doing taxes?
A: That will take a little explaining, but is fairly easy to answer.

1> It would tax all income in the US. There are many people who work "under the table". This is not easily accounted for in our current system.
2> People who deal drugs or perform illegal activities would have to pay the same taxes as everyone else.
3> Since this is an end user program, companies would not be taxed on exported products. This would make companies more competitive abroad.
4> Since the tax would affect all products, regardless of the country of origin, outsourcing of manufacturing jobs would be far less attractive, since a good percentage of the savings of outsourcing would be taken up in shipping.
5> This also means that products that are made outside the US, that do not pay income tax on thier employees currently, would now be subject to the same taxation as US firms. This gives US firms "Home Field Advantage"
6> The tax, being based on what you would spend rather than what you earn, automatically balances itself for a rich or poor person. The tax can also be made to exempt food and clothing so that the poorest Americans are not paying more than they have to for necessities.
7> The tax will lower the costs of manufacturing products! The monies that companies currently have to spend on compliance with tax laws can be put bnack into growing the company.
8> The tax code will be dramatically simplified. The ultimate saving of the trees. How many do you need to cut down for the current tax code to be documented?
9> It removes the penalties that are currently placed on person achievement. No more moving to a higher tax bracket and suddenly being worse off.
10> It shrinks the size of government. No more IRS, since compliance is far easier.

This can only be done if the amendment that allows the government to do an income tax is repealed, however. The Congress cannot be trusted with the power to have both. Most Senators and Representitives have never seen a tax they didn't like. It is mandatory that they don't get both!

I know, I am suffering from wishful thinking, but it is a good idea!

Vis

The Liberal Bill Of Rights

2006-01-25T16:58:00.000-06:00

The Liberal Bill of Rights

Amendment I

Congress shall respect an establishment of a separation of religion and government, and shall not prohibit the free exercise of a tolerant and honorable religion; or abridging the freedom of any speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble for proper causes, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Amendment II

A well regulated Militia, is necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall be infringed.

Amendment III

No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

Amendment IV

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, conversations, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Amendment V

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger, or in those instances where said person has offended with malice those who are in protected classes; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

Amendment VI

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by a jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence.

Amendment VII

In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise reexamined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

Amendment VIII

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted unless the crime is against a member of a protected class.

Amendment IX

The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

Amendment X

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, shall be in the power of the Supreme Court to enumerate at their discretion.

The lighter side of...

2006-01-24T19:43:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Here are some interesting quotes from our illustrious senators.

In 1971 that Senator Kennedy wrote that abortion on demand “is not in accordance with the value which our civilization places on human life."
How much times change!

If Hillary Clinton had asked my advice, I would have told her that cosponsoring a bill to make flag burning a crime is one step too far on her journey to the middle. (Eleanor Clift)
More evidence of out of touch with America

The president of the United States actually has to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time.(John Edwards)
Hence the reason we are glad you weren't elected!
Also, does anyone really believe that George Bush is that stupid?

Senator John F. Kerry : "But I think what we need to do is recognize what we all agree on, which is, you've got to begin to set benchmarks for accomplishment; you've got to begin to transfer authority to the Iraqis, and there is no reason, Bob, that young American soldiers need to be going into the homes of Iraqis in the dead of night, terrorizing kids and children , you know, women, breaking sort of the customs of the -- of -- of -- of -- historical customs, religious customs, whether you like it or not. Iraqis should be doing that. "

source: Face the Nation, December 4, 2005
Iraqi's should be doing that???

A tax loophole is "something that benefits the other guy. If it benefits you, it is tax reform.''
— Russell B. Long, U.S. Senator

Great quote :D

I ask Americans to bow our heads in humility before our Heavenly Father, a God who calls us not to judge our neighbors, but to love them, to ask His guidance upon our nation and its leaders in every level of government.
-- George W. Bush, National Day of Prayer Proclamation of January 20, 2001

Go Mr President!!!

"We have a culture of corruption, we have cronyism, we have incompetence. I predict to you that this administration will go down in history as one of the worst that has ever governed our country." Hillary Clinton
She was referring to which administration???

"The challenge now is to practice politics as the art of making what appears to be impossible, possible." Hillary Clinton
ie. to practice politics, lie alot!

And, my personal favorite:
"Win if you can, lose if you must, but always cheat!" Gov. Jesse Ventura

2006-01-23T20:52:00.000-06:00

Haloscan commenting and trackback have been added to this blog.

Abortion

2006-01-22T22:12:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

I must admit, these thoughts are not all my own. If I remembered who had said them, I would leave an ibid.

Why is Abortion such a consistantly hot topic in America?

A: Since we, the people of the United States, have never had an opportunity to vote on the topic. We have had it summarily driven down our collective throats by an activist court.

The Judge Alito Hearings have made the topic, once again, a front page news item. The Democrats, so frightened of what might happen if he is confirmed, grilled him on the subject. Well, they should be, because Roe v. Wade is bad law!

First, it refers to a fetus as an un-viable tissue mass.
To properly defend against such a ludicrous comment doesn't take too much.
The way to do so is the acronym "S.L.E.D.", or in other words, what makes a human, a human.

Size? That is obvious, Shaq is far more human the Herves Villaceas(sp)
Location? Perhaps, it is in the womb that we are not human, since it might be an inconvenience to the mother who would also be inconvenienced by the child!
Education? Once again, the intellect of one person does not make or break it's humanness.
Developement? Well, there are those who will say that a abnormal fetus should be aborted, because it would otherwise be incapable of haveing a normal life. How totally frightening that philosophy is! Just remember, you are one car accident away from being put down!

We now can say, due to advances in embyology, that, no matter what the textbooks say, a human being can only give birth to a human being. So the term, un-viable tissue mass, no longer applies.

Second, due to a divorce case in Texas, a fetus (outside the womb), was referred to by the court as a "CHILD" and the fertilized eggs that were frozen as a fertility clinic were treated as children to determine "Custody". Therefore, outside of the womb, it is a child, but inside, it is a "thing".

Third, Abortion is tramatic to the mother!

Four classic references here are these: "Women with a history of psychiatric disturbance were three times as likely to have some psychiatric disturbance" after an abortion as others who had no such history." E. Greenglass, "Abortion & Psychiatric Disturbance," Canadian Psych. Assn. Jour., vol. 21, no. 7, Nov. 1976, pp. 453-459

Dr. Charles Ford and his associates at UCLA reported the same finding. "The more serious the psychiatric diagnosis, the less beneficial was the abortion." C. Ford et al., "Abortion, Is It a Therapeutic Procedure in Psychiatry?" JAMA, vol. 218, no. 8, Nov. 22, 1971, pp. 1173-1178

"The more severely ill the psychiatric patient, the worse is her post-abortion psychiatric state." E. Sandberg, "Psychology of Abortion" In Comprehensive Handbook of Psychiatry, 3rd ed. Kaplan & Friedman Publishers, 1980

All of these support the original official statement of the World Health Organization in 1970: "Serious mental disorders arise more often in women with previous mental problems. Thus, the very women for whom legal abortion is considered justified on psychiatric grounds are the ones who have the highest risk of post-abortion psychiatric disorders."

What are the symptoms of PAS?

Guilt is ever present in many guises, along with regret, remorse, shame, lowered self-esteem, insomnia, dreams and nightmares, flash backs, anniversary reactions. There often is hostility, and even hatred, toward men. This can include her husband, and she may be-come sexually dysfunctional. Crying, despair and depression are usual, even at times with suicide attempts.

Recourse to alcohol or drugs to mask the pain is frequent, sometimes leading to sexual promiscuity. There is also a numbing and coldness in place of more normal warmth and maternal tenderness
ibid http://www.abortionfacts.com/online_books/love_them_both/why_cant_we_love_them_both_9.asp#What%20about%20psychological%20problems%20after%20abortion?
I would encourage you to read the whole article.

Now, personally, the thing just ain't covered in the constitution. It should have been decided in the states in the first place. There is no alot more evidence that abortion is bad for both the mother and society.

Not only that, but the pro-death advocates want to say they are "Pro-Choice". Here is the problem with that, they don't see choosing against an abortion as a "Choice". Basically, you are pro-choice if you agree with them. Well, here is my closing thought.

I am pro-choice!
I am for people taking the choice NOT TO HAVE SEX WHEN THEY DON'T WANT KIDS IN THE FIRST PLACE!!!
If you are having sex... and you get pregnant... you have made a choice to do the activity that got you pregnant!!!
And if you are the man in that situation, you are equally responsible!!!

Vis

PS, Oh, and to those of you who say, "What about rape, incest, or the life of the mother?" that is .0001% of all abortions. I would be happy to give up that amount as needed, to rescue the rest of those kids!!!

What is wrong with this country?

2006-01-20T21:23:00.000-06:00

If you thought our school system is screwed up, than this will come as no surprise. Even as cynical as I have been toward the schools in the US, I found this one as a surprise.

My daughters attend a public school here in Minnesota. Before the "Winter Break", seven students were given disciplinary notices, which will become part of thier permanent academic record, for saying "Merry Christmas" in the hallways.

The implication is obvious. In a school that has a growing number of Somali immigrants, who, by virtue of their Islamic religeon, are allowed to pray to Allah as their religeon prescribes. They are given a specific room where they can kneel to Mecca. They are allowed to leave classes, and worship as they choose, as they should be able to. Their Christian classmates are restricted from expressing the greeting of the coming holiday, argueably the holiest holiday in the Christian calendar.

Under the constitution, the students have the right to practice their religeon in the school. They can write papers with religeous themes, even talk to their classmates about it. Every religeon, it seems, except Christianity. The supreme court has already ruled on the subject, but the schools seem to be more afraid of the ACLU than the supreme court.

I suppose we should not be surprised by what is happening in our schools. I mean, there is so much proof of the direction they are going. It is illegal for the schools to dispense asprin to our kids without our written consent, but condoms are ok. They cannot take them across the street to the park without my written consent, but they can take them to the abotion clinic. Now, they can practice any religeon they want, as long as it is not Christianity.

Hello

2006-01-20T20:59:00.000-06:00

Hi All,

Well, my first post on a new blog. I figure I should start this off right.

Hello Blogworld!!!!!