I’ve been somewhat intrigued by the political machinations going on in Washington… all swirling around the Senate Healthcare Bill. Maybe it would be more accurate to say that I’ve been discouraged. My hope (and the hopes of the majority of American’s) has been dashed. There has been months of Republican efforts to stop Mr. Obama’s train to Pottersville, but even more heartening has been the loud voices of Main Street America. I figure that the reason Republican’s are putting up such a fight, and some Democrats are more prone to stick their fingers in the wind, is because of the massive movement of the American masses. They clearly do not like the direction Mr. Obama and Congress is going.
So, Mr. Obama once wrote about “The Audacity of Hope.” America bought into his silver tongue and deceptions and voted him into office… even against their better judgment. They foolishly rode the wave of history. And now what do we have? A country in economic collapse, a dollar worth a peso, a debt that can’t be paid, and politicians living high on the hog despite it all. Someone needs to write a book that characterizes Washington as it truly is these days and call it: “The Audacity of Dopes.”
Why? Well, let’s just cite two examples.
Mary Landrieu, Democratic Senator from Louisiana, finally caved to party pressure and cast a vote to support the Senate Healthcare Bill. If you visit her website, she claims to “fight for Louisiana.” So, how is voting for a bill that the majority of America opposes “fighting” for her constituency? Guess what her answer was. She claims that she did vote with the majority of America. How’s that? Well, the majority voted Mr. Obama into office for his policies and she needed to give him what he wanted. Talk about a dope.
The majority voted into office a Mr. Obama who said he would be transparent, work with both sides of the isle, and bring new hope and a new day to America. Well, things have changed… abruptly… since then. The current voice of the people is not with Mr. Obama. He has proven to be just as much of a dope as Congress. Finally, let’s be truthful. Landrieu was paid-off. Guess what? Wall Street ways lambasted by the President and Congress have been embraced by our politicians.
Ben Nelson, the only Democrat in the Nebraska delegation, also cast his vote in favor of the Senate Healthcare Bill. Why? Well, because the language surrounding government funding of abortions was softened. Nelson, a one issue politician (albeit an important issue), posed himself as unwavering on this point. After watching Harry Reid’s shenanigans and apparent willingness to do anything to pass the bill, why would Nelson trust his party’s leadership on this critical issue? Well, it turns out to be a very simple answer. Remember Mary Landrieu? Well, meet her twin, Bill Nelson. Harry paid him off… giving Bill promises that Nebraska will be treated differently than all the other states. They’ll be off the hook for Medicaid payments to the tune of millions of dollars. Once again, it’s the Wall Street hustle.
Such audacity. These Dopes in Washington have bankrupted this country. We’re on the brink of a dangerous precipice. How can we survive the audacity of dopes?
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Saturday, November 21, 2009
A Season of Firsts
This political season has been filled with firsts. Firsts are often considered striking events... things never to be forgotten. The capturing of the presidency by the first African-American (well, sort of... his mother was white) was one of those events that made history. Mr. Obama's seizure of the American state was just the beginning. Soon thereafter, he seized elements of Wall Street and GM too. The government taking ownership of private business, if not technically a first, is certainly extremely rare and unusual. It's something you'd expect in Venezuela, but the United State of America.
If that were all, it would be enough... at least for me. When was the last time the Democrat's ignored the polls? During the presidential campaign they followed the polls religiously. But what do we find now? Congressional and presidential approval ratings are the lowest in decades. American's have clearly spoken and the direction the country is heading is not what is wanted. And yet, the once religious poll watching Democrats act as if there are no polls. A political poll? What's that?
Just today, the Senate voted (just barely) to impose floor debate on a very unpopular Health Care bill. Most Americans have expressed a desire for health care reform, but not a public or government run option. Well, the Congress ignored the polls and voted in a public option health care bill and sent it on to the Senate. And now the Senate has chosen the same path. Both houses of congress are dominated by Democrats. Personally I oppose both of these measures. I hope that, when given the chance, their constituency stomps loudly as they give these hard of hearing Democrats the boot.
I'm a Republican, but I'm a conservative American first. I believe in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. I believe in free enterprise... that it is the engine that allows this country to run and provide an opportunity for the American dream. I believe in a strong central government... but a lean one. I believe that government must live within its means like every entity in this country. Government should have a balanced budget and should stay out of way of states and the private sector. So everything that I'm seeing now is very troubling. The Democrats seem hell-bent on pushing this country into a very large government that controls every sector of the economy.
If the Democratic agenda is forced upon this country, regardless of the loud voices from every state in this nation, then I'll hope for yet another "first." What would that be? Throughout our political history there have been some weak moments when Democrats have succeeded in ramming a government option through the system. One example is the Social Security administration. Once these "government options" get their foot in the door, they never leave. They become government entitlement programs that become a serious drain on the American people... who pay for these entitlements whether they work effectively or not. Well, if insanity succeeds and we see a national health care plan rammed through the system against the will of the majority, then I hope for the first time, that it becomes the first entitlement to get the axe.
A season of firsts? I hope so.
If that were all, it would be enough... at least for me. When was the last time the Democrat's ignored the polls? During the presidential campaign they followed the polls religiously. But what do we find now? Congressional and presidential approval ratings are the lowest in decades. American's have clearly spoken and the direction the country is heading is not what is wanted. And yet, the once religious poll watching Democrats act as if there are no polls. A political poll? What's that?
Just today, the Senate voted (just barely) to impose floor debate on a very unpopular Health Care bill. Most Americans have expressed a desire for health care reform, but not a public or government run option. Well, the Congress ignored the polls and voted in a public option health care bill and sent it on to the Senate. And now the Senate has chosen the same path. Both houses of congress are dominated by Democrats. Personally I oppose both of these measures. I hope that, when given the chance, their constituency stomps loudly as they give these hard of hearing Democrats the boot.
I'm a Republican, but I'm a conservative American first. I believe in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. I believe in free enterprise... that it is the engine that allows this country to run and provide an opportunity for the American dream. I believe in a strong central government... but a lean one. I believe that government must live within its means like every entity in this country. Government should have a balanced budget and should stay out of way of states and the private sector. So everything that I'm seeing now is very troubling. The Democrats seem hell-bent on pushing this country into a very large government that controls every sector of the economy.
If the Democratic agenda is forced upon this country, regardless of the loud voices from every state in this nation, then I'll hope for yet another "first." What would that be? Throughout our political history there have been some weak moments when Democrats have succeeded in ramming a government option through the system. One example is the Social Security administration. Once these "government options" get their foot in the door, they never leave. They become government entitlement programs that become a serious drain on the American people... who pay for these entitlements whether they work effectively or not. Well, if insanity succeeds and we see a national health care plan rammed through the system against the will of the majority, then I hope for the first time, that it becomes the first entitlement to get the axe.
A season of firsts? I hope so.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
He's Taking Us for a Ride
So were you watching the news last week when Mr. Obama held a press conference at the White House with a group of doctors who support his health care initiative? I was. I found myself looking at the doctors and seriously doubting that I was really looking at "doctors." I said to myself: "they look like some White House staffers dressed up in white coats." Even when Mr. Obama made his entry on the scene, his smile seemed to reveal that it was all fake.
Well, I thought nothing of it until my wife reported that the "doctors" who showed up to support the president's program were part of a group funded by none other than George Soros. No wonder Mr. Obama was smiling from ear to ear... he knew this was spin and a major hoodwink for the American people. They didn't represent a cross section of doctors in America after all. Why should I have been surprised?
But you know the real tragedy in this story for me? It's the fact that in only 9 or 10 months of a new presidency, when I see the president on TV, pushing some new agenda, in a setting that indicates broad support, my first reaction is... right! It's sad that I cannot take this man at his word. There have been too many "set-ups", too much spin, and too many lies. My first reaction is doubt.
I know I'm only a basic guy, but I wonder if others feel the same way or see the same thing. Was it Graham Nash who sang: "Please come to Chicago for a ride"? Well, Mr. Obama sings: "Please Come to Chicago and I'll take you for a ride." Change the world indeed. Once again... some change is simply short-changed.
Well, I thought nothing of it until my wife reported that the "doctors" who showed up to support the president's program were part of a group funded by none other than George Soros. No wonder Mr. Obama was smiling from ear to ear... he knew this was spin and a major hoodwink for the American people. They didn't represent a cross section of doctors in America after all. Why should I have been surprised?
But you know the real tragedy in this story for me? It's the fact that in only 9 or 10 months of a new presidency, when I see the president on TV, pushing some new agenda, in a setting that indicates broad support, my first reaction is... right! It's sad that I cannot take this man at his word. There have been too many "set-ups", too much spin, and too many lies. My first reaction is doubt.
I know I'm only a basic guy, but I wonder if others feel the same way or see the same thing. Was it Graham Nash who sang: "Please come to Chicago for a ride"? Well, Mr. Obama sings: "Please Come to Chicago and I'll take you for a ride." Change the world indeed. Once again... some change is simply short-changed.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Broken Capitalism is Superior to Socialism
We keep getting reminded that the economy is broken and it needs to be fixed. Mr. Obama ran on such a message and felt he was given a mandate by the American people to to do just that. Now and again he reminds us just how broken the economy is. To many, the economy translates into capitalism. Capitalism is broken and the only way to fix it is the have the government take charge of the economy... and when the government takes over an economy, you no longer have capitalism. That is what we call socialism.
Now, I'm just a basic guy, but it seems to me that the economy has always been broken. Use the other word if you like: capitalism has always been broken. At least to one degree or another. Why is it, or always has been, broken? None other than John Adams has given a hint as to why. He said:
Just as our Constitution works best with a moral people, the same goes with our economy. Capitalism works best in the hands of a moral people. We have had plenty of evidence of this principle over the last decade as we have watched the parade of financial scandals that have rocked this nation.
Some believe that the answer lies in a heavy handed government. So, let me get this straight. We should take our economy out of the hands of a scandalous private sector and put it into the hands of a scandalous public sector... the government in Washington. That makes sense. Take it out of the hands of thousands in the private sector and entrust it in the hands of hundreds in government (or in our case... one). I'm sorry, but that makes no sense at all. Socialism is entrusted the world we have known into fewer hands. And what if those hands have an even more insidious agenda? America would be in serious trouble.
This is what I think. Capitalism has been the engine that has built the greatest nation in history. It has produced the greatest wealth and inspired ingenuity and unmatched philanthropy. No country that has languished under the cloud of socialism has achieved so much. I know capitalism has its problems and sometimes severe weakness. But even with all of that, broken capitalism is a far better friend to and answer for America that any form of a government run economy.
That said, the best thing for us is to inspire to superior morals in this country. From father to son, mother to daughter, teacher to student, banker to customer, Wall Street to Main Street, preacher to congregation, let's do ourselves a favor and inspire to be a moral people. Let's not allow John Adam's words to haunt us, but to inspire us. We need to reclaim the American dream.
Now, I'm just a basic guy, but it seems to me that the economy has always been broken. Use the other word if you like: capitalism has always been broken. At least to one degree or another. Why is it, or always has been, broken? None other than John Adams has given a hint as to why. He said:
Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
Just as our Constitution works best with a moral people, the same goes with our economy. Capitalism works best in the hands of a moral people. We have had plenty of evidence of this principle over the last decade as we have watched the parade of financial scandals that have rocked this nation.
Some believe that the answer lies in a heavy handed government. So, let me get this straight. We should take our economy out of the hands of a scandalous private sector and put it into the hands of a scandalous public sector... the government in Washington. That makes sense. Take it out of the hands of thousands in the private sector and entrust it in the hands of hundreds in government (or in our case... one). I'm sorry, but that makes no sense at all. Socialism is entrusted the world we have known into fewer hands. And what if those hands have an even more insidious agenda? America would be in serious trouble.
This is what I think. Capitalism has been the engine that has built the greatest nation in history. It has produced the greatest wealth and inspired ingenuity and unmatched philanthropy. No country that has languished under the cloud of socialism has achieved so much. I know capitalism has its problems and sometimes severe weakness. But even with all of that, broken capitalism is a far better friend to and answer for America that any form of a government run economy.
That said, the best thing for us is to inspire to superior morals in this country. From father to son, mother to daughter, teacher to student, banker to customer, Wall Street to Main Street, preacher to congregation, let's do ourselves a favor and inspire to be a moral people. Let's not allow John Adam's words to haunt us, but to inspire us. We need to reclaim the American dream.
Friday, September 4, 2009
President or Community Organizer?
Is any one else as confused as I am? I've been watching with interest the first few months of Mr. Obama's presidency. I have to tell you that I'm confused. What do I mean? Well, let me make it as simple as I can. When Mr. Obama was voted into office, did we get a president of the United States and servant of the people or a community organizer. It's kind of hard to tell.
When you see this president establish a large staff of Czars who are independent from the cabinet and the congress, you realize that this is not business as usual. In fact, as you consult the Constitution, you begin to wonder just what country Mr. Obama thinks he's in. The only one I can think of is Chicago.
Then this latest episode. It's one thing to want to inspire America's youth to greater educational heights, but quite another to slyly organize them into some nation-wide community youth group. Are America's children in school to serve the president? I imagine if you were to ask most any parent, you'd find that they don't think so.
So, I ask again, what is it that Mr. Obama wants to be, the president or some national or global community organizer? I think the jury is out on this one. As for me, I have been suspicious of this man from the beginning. Since taking office, he has done nothing but to add to the confusion and mystery. At this point, my vote would be, Mr. Obama, go back to Chicago and organize some community there. America and the Executive Branch need to be returned their foundation, the Constitution and free enterprise.
When you see this president establish a large staff of Czars who are independent from the cabinet and the congress, you realize that this is not business as usual. In fact, as you consult the Constitution, you begin to wonder just what country Mr. Obama thinks he's in. The only one I can think of is Chicago.
Then this latest episode. It's one thing to want to inspire America's youth to greater educational heights, but quite another to slyly organize them into some nation-wide community youth group. Are America's children in school to serve the president? I imagine if you were to ask most any parent, you'd find that they don't think so.
So, I ask again, what is it that Mr. Obama wants to be, the president or some national or global community organizer? I think the jury is out on this one. As for me, I have been suspicious of this man from the beginning. Since taking office, he has done nothing but to add to the confusion and mystery. At this point, my vote would be, Mr. Obama, go back to Chicago and organize some community there. America and the Executive Branch need to be returned their foundation, the Constitution and free enterprise.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
"Things are not Always what they Seem"
The media has indicated that Mr. Obama is in "campaign" mode as he tries to convince America that his healthcare plan is the panacea for all that ails us. Campaign mode indeed. Note this post from a woman in Bozemen, Montana who showed up at Mr. Obama's town hall meeting in her state:
"Hello All,
"By now you have probably heard that President Obama came to Montana last Friday. However, there are many things that the major news has not covered. I feel that since Joe and I live here and we were at the airport on Friday I should share some facts with you. Whatever you decide to do with the information is up to you. If you chose to share this email with others I do ask that you DELETE my email address before you forward this on.
"On Wednesday, August 5th it was announced locally that the President would be coming here. There are many groups here that are against his healthcare and huge spending so those groups began talking and deciding on what they were going to do. The White House would not release ANY details other than the date.
"On about Tuesday Joe found out that they would be holding the “Town Hall” at the airport (this is only because Joe knows EVERYONE at the airport). Our airport is actually located outside of Belgrade (tiny town) in a very remote location. Nothing is around there. They chose to use a hangar that is the most remotely located hangar. You could not pick a more remote location, and you can not get to it easily. It is totally secluded from the public.
"FYI: We have many areas in Belgrade and Bozeman which could have held a large amount of folks with sufficient parking. (gymnasiums/auditoriums). All of which have chairs and tables, and would not have to be SHIPPED IN!! $$$$$
"During the week, cargo by the TONS was being shipped in constantly. Airport employees could not believe how it just kept coming. Though it was our President coming several expressed how excessive it was, especially during a recession. $$$$$
"Late Tuesday/early Wednesday the 12th, they said that tickets would be handed out on Thursday 9am at two locations and the president would be arriving around 12:30 Friday. Thursday morning about 600 tickets were passed out. However, 1500 were printed at a Local printing shop per White House request. Hmmmm… 900 tickets just DISAPPEARED.
"This same morning someone called into the radio from the local UPS branch and said that THOUSANDS of Dollars of Lobster were shipped in for Obama. Montana has some of the best beef in the nation!!! And it would have been really wonderful to help out the local economy. Anyone heard of the Recession?? Just think…with all of the traveling the White House is doing. $$$$$ One can only imagine what else we are paying for.
"On Friday Joe and I got out to the airport about 10:45am. The groups that wanted to protest Obama’s spending and healthcare had gotten a permit to protest and that area was roped off. But that was not to be. A large bus carrying SEIU (Service Employees International Union) members drove up onto the area (illegal) and unloaded right there. It was quite a commotion and there were specifically 2 SEIU men trying to make trouble and start a fight. Police did get involved and arrested the one man but they said they did not have the manpower to remove the SEIU crowd.
"The SEIU crowd was very organized and young. About 99% were under the age of 30 and they were not locals! They had bullhorns and PROFESSIONALLY made signs. Some even wore preprinted T-shirts. Oh, and Planned Parenthood folks were with them… professing abortion rights with their T-shirts and preprinted signs. (BTW, all these folks did have a permit to protest in ANOTHER area).
"Those against healthcare/spending moved away from the SEIU crowd to avoid confrontation. They were orderly and respectful. Even though SEIU kept coming over and walking through, continuing to be very intimidating and aggressive at the direction of the one SEIU man.
"So we had Montana folks from ALL OVER the state with their homemade signs and their DOGS with homemade signs. We had cowboys, nurses, doctors you name it. There was even a guy from Texas who had been driving through. He found out about the occasion, went to the store, made a sign, and came to protest.
"If you are wondering about the press…..Well, all of the major networks were over by that remote hangar I mentioned. They were conveniently parked on the other side of the buildings FAR away. None of these crowds were even visible to them. I have my doubts that they knew anything about the crowds.
"We did have some local news media around us from this state and Idaho. Speaking of the local media…they were invited. However, all questions were to be turned into the White House in advance of the event. Wouldn’t want anyone to have to think off the top of their head.
"It was very obvious that it was meant to be totally controlled by the White House. Everything was orchestrated down to the last detail to make it appear that Montana is just crazy for Obama and government healthcare. Even those people that talked about their insurance woes……..the White House called our local HRDC (Human Resource and Development Committee) and asked for names. Then the White House asked those folks to come. Smoke and mirrors…EVERYTHING was staged!!!!!!!!!!!
"I am very dismayed about what I learned about our current White House. The amount of control and manipulation was unbelievable. I felt I was not living in the United States of America, more like the USSR!! I was physically nauseous. Joe and I have been around when Presidents or Heads of State visit. It has NEVER been like this. I am truly very frightened for our country. America needs your prayers and your voices. If you care about our country please get involved. Know the issues. And let Congress hear your voices again and again!! If they are willing to put forth so much effort to BULLY a small town one can only imagine what is going on in Washington DC. Scary!!"
Sue
Bozeman, Montana
No Sue, this isn't the USSR... it's just Chicago... a Chicago style campaign that Mr. Obama employed on his race to the top. His strong arm tactics are the only way he can get his way because his ideas have nothing to do with traditional American thought. Stick to your guns. The Constitution and other founding documents were inspired, and are inspiring. How could they not be? Look what they have produced. As a basic guy, I love America as it is... not the America Mr. Obama is desperately trying to spawn.
"Hello All,
"By now you have probably heard that President Obama came to Montana last Friday. However, there are many things that the major news has not covered. I feel that since Joe and I live here and we were at the airport on Friday I should share some facts with you. Whatever you decide to do with the information is up to you. If you chose to share this email with others I do ask that you DELETE my email address before you forward this on.
"On Wednesday, August 5th it was announced locally that the President would be coming here. There are many groups here that are against his healthcare and huge spending so those groups began talking and deciding on what they were going to do. The White House would not release ANY details other than the date.
"On about Tuesday Joe found out that they would be holding the “Town Hall” at the airport (this is only because Joe knows EVERYONE at the airport). Our airport is actually located outside of Belgrade (tiny town) in a very remote location. Nothing is around there. They chose to use a hangar that is the most remotely located hangar. You could not pick a more remote location, and you can not get to it easily. It is totally secluded from the public.
"FYI: We have many areas in Belgrade and Bozeman which could have held a large amount of folks with sufficient parking. (gymnasiums/auditoriums). All of which have chairs and tables, and would not have to be SHIPPED IN!! $$$$$
"During the week, cargo by the TONS was being shipped in constantly. Airport employees could not believe how it just kept coming. Though it was our President coming several expressed how excessive it was, especially during a recession. $$$$$
"Late Tuesday/early Wednesday the 12th, they said that tickets would be handed out on Thursday 9am at two locations and the president would be arriving around 12:30 Friday. Thursday morning about 600 tickets were passed out. However, 1500 were printed at a Local printing shop per White House request. Hmmmm… 900 tickets just DISAPPEARED.
"This same morning someone called into the radio from the local UPS branch and said that THOUSANDS of Dollars of Lobster were shipped in for Obama. Montana has some of the best beef in the nation!!! And it would have been really wonderful to help out the local economy. Anyone heard of the Recession?? Just think…with all of the traveling the White House is doing. $$$$$ One can only imagine what else we are paying for.
"On Friday Joe and I got out to the airport about 10:45am. The groups that wanted to protest Obama’s spending and healthcare had gotten a permit to protest and that area was roped off. But that was not to be. A large bus carrying SEIU (Service Employees International Union) members drove up onto the area (illegal) and unloaded right there. It was quite a commotion and there were specifically 2 SEIU men trying to make trouble and start a fight. Police did get involved and arrested the one man but they said they did not have the manpower to remove the SEIU crowd.
"The SEIU crowd was very organized and young. About 99% were under the age of 30 and they were not locals! They had bullhorns and PROFESSIONALLY made signs. Some even wore preprinted T-shirts. Oh, and Planned Parenthood folks were with them… professing abortion rights with their T-shirts and preprinted signs. (BTW, all these folks did have a permit to protest in ANOTHER area).
"Those against healthcare/spending moved away from the SEIU crowd to avoid confrontation. They were orderly and respectful. Even though SEIU kept coming over and walking through, continuing to be very intimidating and aggressive at the direction of the one SEIU man.
"So we had Montana folks from ALL OVER the state with their homemade signs and their DOGS with homemade signs. We had cowboys, nurses, doctors you name it. There was even a guy from Texas who had been driving through. He found out about the occasion, went to the store, made a sign, and came to protest.
"If you are wondering about the press…..Well, all of the major networks were over by that remote hangar I mentioned. They were conveniently parked on the other side of the buildings FAR away. None of these crowds were even visible to them. I have my doubts that they knew anything about the crowds.
"We did have some local news media around us from this state and Idaho. Speaking of the local media…they were invited. However, all questions were to be turned into the White House in advance of the event. Wouldn’t want anyone to have to think off the top of their head.
"It was very obvious that it was meant to be totally controlled by the White House. Everything was orchestrated down to the last detail to make it appear that Montana is just crazy for Obama and government healthcare. Even those people that talked about their insurance woes……..the White House called our local HRDC (Human Resource and Development Committee) and asked for names. Then the White House asked those folks to come. Smoke and mirrors…EVERYTHING was staged!!!!!!!!!!!
"I am very dismayed about what I learned about our current White House. The amount of control and manipulation was unbelievable. I felt I was not living in the United States of America, more like the USSR!! I was physically nauseous. Joe and I have been around when Presidents or Heads of State visit. It has NEVER been like this. I am truly very frightened for our country. America needs your prayers and your voices. If you care about our country please get involved. Know the issues. And let Congress hear your voices again and again!! If they are willing to put forth so much effort to BULLY a small town one can only imagine what is going on in Washington DC. Scary!!"
Sue
Bozeman, Montana
No Sue, this isn't the USSR... it's just Chicago... a Chicago style campaign that Mr. Obama employed on his race to the top. His strong arm tactics are the only way he can get his way because his ideas have nothing to do with traditional American thought. Stick to your guns. The Constitution and other founding documents were inspired, and are inspiring. How could they not be? Look what they have produced. As a basic guy, I love America as it is... not the America Mr. Obama is desperately trying to spawn.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
"Surrendering the Field"
Years ago while in college I took a military history class. It was a very interesting look at war throughout history. It heralded the great strategic minds that have succeeded over ages past. Some particular battles were turning points. For example, a battle at Canne, France, led to the end of the knight as a war machine and the rise of the long-bowman as an effective warrior.
There was one term that has stuck with me over the years. It is a term I have tried to apply in my personal circumstances. You never "surrender the field" unless it is to continue the fight later on your own terms. Of course, some armies had to "surrender the field" or be annihilated. As some have supposed, its better to be a loser than dead. But these are extreme cases.
While watching a few moments of Good Morning America this morning, I was a little taken back as I watched anchor, Robyn Roberts, "surrender the field." Unfortunately in this case, it had nothing to do with putting herself in a position to continue the fight later on her own terms.
Robyn was reporting on President Obama's staged New Hampshire town hall meeting regarding health care reform from the day before. As she introduced the story, she referred to Mr. Obama as "Fact Checker-in-Chief." Now, I know I'm just a basic guy, but that sounds a lot like "surrendering the field" to me. By relegating to the president the responsibility of "fact checking," she surrendered one of the Press's most lethal weapons. So, the question remains: why isn't the Press fact checking the concerns of the American people? Instead all we hear is that the Americans who are acting all angry and obstinate at this August's rounds of town hall meetings have been whipped into a frenzy by talk radio or been bought off and planted by worried insurance executives.
Well, I say fact check it. Let's have a wary Press fact checking all the claims on both sides of the isle. I'd like to see them quote the health care bill that is being debated. Why haven't we seen such a thing? Instead all we get is Mr. Obama's denials (even though he has admitted having not read the bill himself). One Congresswoman in Missouri asked her constituency, "Don't you trust me?" It was a resounding "no!" Americans are worried about the runaway government all while the Press lays down its weapons.
If the Press refuses to do its duty to protect the American people from an unwieldy government, and instead drops their weapons and runs with the enemy, what else can a people do but put up their own fight the only way they can. Americans have been talking and writing and pressing their opinions to the deaf ears in Washington. So when a chance comes to express their opinion, they speak loudly during town hall meetings.
Call it what you will: unruly or uncivil. These boisterous Americans may not look flattering on camera, but how else can they be heard? How do you talk to the deaf? Congress continues to ram expensive programs down the throats of their constituency, even though the obvious majority doesn't support them. Well, all I can say to my fellow Americans: don't follow in the footsteps of the traitorous Press... do not "surrender the field." If we do, we all lose the battle... not only for ourselves, but our children... their children... and their children's children. Once this battle is lost, there's no turning back.
There was one term that has stuck with me over the years. It is a term I have tried to apply in my personal circumstances. You never "surrender the field" unless it is to continue the fight later on your own terms. Of course, some armies had to "surrender the field" or be annihilated. As some have supposed, its better to be a loser than dead. But these are extreme cases.
While watching a few moments of Good Morning America this morning, I was a little taken back as I watched anchor, Robyn Roberts, "surrender the field." Unfortunately in this case, it had nothing to do with putting herself in a position to continue the fight later on her own terms.
Robyn was reporting on President Obama's staged New Hampshire town hall meeting regarding health care reform from the day before. As she introduced the story, she referred to Mr. Obama as "Fact Checker-in-Chief." Now, I know I'm just a basic guy, but that sounds a lot like "surrendering the field" to me. By relegating to the president the responsibility of "fact checking," she surrendered one of the Press's most lethal weapons. So, the question remains: why isn't the Press fact checking the concerns of the American people? Instead all we hear is that the Americans who are acting all angry and obstinate at this August's rounds of town hall meetings have been whipped into a frenzy by talk radio or been bought off and planted by worried insurance executives.
Well, I say fact check it. Let's have a wary Press fact checking all the claims on both sides of the isle. I'd like to see them quote the health care bill that is being debated. Why haven't we seen such a thing? Instead all we get is Mr. Obama's denials (even though he has admitted having not read the bill himself). One Congresswoman in Missouri asked her constituency, "Don't you trust me?" It was a resounding "no!" Americans are worried about the runaway government all while the Press lays down its weapons.
If the Press refuses to do its duty to protect the American people from an unwieldy government, and instead drops their weapons and runs with the enemy, what else can a people do but put up their own fight the only way they can. Americans have been talking and writing and pressing their opinions to the deaf ears in Washington. So when a chance comes to express their opinion, they speak loudly during town hall meetings.
Call it what you will: unruly or uncivil. These boisterous Americans may not look flattering on camera, but how else can they be heard? How do you talk to the deaf? Congress continues to ram expensive programs down the throats of their constituency, even though the obvious majority doesn't support them. Well, all I can say to my fellow Americans: don't follow in the footsteps of the traitorous Press... do not "surrender the field." If we do, we all lose the battle... not only for ourselves, but our children... their children... and their children's children. Once this battle is lost, there's no turning back.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Public Good or Private Gain
At the risk of being accused of overly pounding the same topic over and over again, I have just one more thing to say concerning the "Political Aristocracy" that I wrote about in my last post. Why? Because I came across a statement that confirms my thoughts.
John Tanner, the academic vice president at Brigham Young University, recently wrote about the "founding generation" and offered George Washington as a supreme example of ideal "citizen leadership" (see "More Than Self," BYU Magazine, Summer 2009, 3). He indicated that General Washington "won the war by the art of strategic retreats" and "secured lasting liberty by the art of strategic resignations."
Washington was a public servant, not a public snob. He carefully showed "how citizen leaders should wield power and yield power." He also pursued "the public good rather than private gain."
Now, how many of today's politicians could be so characterized? By my count... just... none. I'm thinking of Arlen Specter. So, why did he jump from the Republican to the Democratic Party? I think it had something to do with realizing he would have lost the republican nomination (most likely because of his vote on the stimulus package). Does that sound like he's pursuing the public good? Or is it private gain? I have my suspicions.
So, are there any public servants left in America? If so, who are they? I certainly hope some can be found... because if not, there's little hope for a free America.
John Tanner, the academic vice president at Brigham Young University, recently wrote about the "founding generation" and offered George Washington as a supreme example of ideal "citizen leadership" (see "More Than Self," BYU Magazine, Summer 2009, 3). He indicated that General Washington "won the war by the art of strategic retreats" and "secured lasting liberty by the art of strategic resignations."
Washington was a public servant, not a public snob. He carefully showed "how citizen leaders should wield power and yield power." He also pursued "the public good rather than private gain."
Now, how many of today's politicians could be so characterized? By my count... just... none. I'm thinking of Arlen Specter. So, why did he jump from the Republican to the Democratic Party? I think it had something to do with realizing he would have lost the republican nomination (most likely because of his vote on the stimulus package). Does that sound like he's pursuing the public good? Or is it private gain? I have my suspicions.
So, are there any public servants left in America? If so, who are they? I certainly hope some can be found... because if not, there's little hope for a free America.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Political Aristocracy
Well, it seems like it's been forever since I last blogged...I guess that's because it has been forever. However, since it's the 4th, I just couldn't keep from saying something, considering what usually gets said on this most illustrious day. I fear we get so caught up in things that lead us to "forget" why we celebrate this day as opposed to those things that cause us to "remember" why we celebrate it.
As I watch the unfolding events and follow the trends going on in America, I see cause for serious concern. I'm amazed at the audacity of some politicians (way too many) who vote for bills that their constituency oppose or at least plead for more discussion. The Democratic majority ram bills through congress, often without having read the details. Exhaustive bills of a thousand pages or more are introduced and the party leadership forces early votes.
Where is the debate? Why are we not doing the research and considering what is best for the American people? Why are bills introduced by the opposing party buried in committees and never allowed to be heard on the floor? You know, there is a reason why the Founding Father's built in a system of checks and balances. That same wise idea should be employed in congress. We need healthy debate so the best possible options can be vetted for the people of this great land.
I've thought about this for some time now. I've wondered why Democratic leadership is taking such a risk. Are they not worried about backlash from their constituency? Do they think they'll safely ride on Obama's coattails? Do they feel like America gave them some mandate to press forward every liberal thought that ever crossed a liberal mind? The answer is probably yes to all of these questions. However, I think there might be one more... and it is very disconcerting to me.
One of the reasons our Founders issued the Declaration of Independence 233 years ago was their objection to British prideful aristocracy. British royalty felt like they were God's gift to mankind and owned the colonies. Colonist needed the intelligence and wealth of the royals to survive. Colonist also existed for the realm, not the realm for the colonist. No wonder early American colonist rallied around this revolutionary thought:
It appears to me that a new aristocracy is developing in America... a Political Aristocracy. Many of our politicians seem to believe that they are God's gift to mankind. They pass laws like they "own" the American people. They vote as if only they have the necessary intelligence to take care of the less intelligently endowed normal folk who possess the land. Only the wealth of this new aristocratic government can provide what is necessary for their needs. Finally, these political aristocrats act like lowly Americans exist for them, not them for the American people. This thought is confirmed every time I hear names like Pelosi, Reid, and Obama.
You know, I feel pretty certain that this is not the kind of change that most Americans were hoping for. I hope that Americans will soon wake up to this growing threat to peace and prosperity. Maybe we need to resolve, as the Founders did, "that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it."
Maybe it's time to throw out those who believe they are the political elite... a new aristocracy that is as dangerous as any that once wielded power in Britain. We need to either vote them out of office or reduce their salaries... take away their special retirement plan that will bankrupt this country as quickly as the unions imposed retirements destroyed GM. If nothing else, we all need to pay better attention to what the "royals" are doing in Washington and let them know of our growing concerns.
I have little respect for royalty... especially political royalty. There is only one royal that gets my vote... and that is the King of kings... all else are simply men and women given the privilege to serve the greatest nation on earth... even the United States of America.
As I watch the unfolding events and follow the trends going on in America, I see cause for serious concern. I'm amazed at the audacity of some politicians (way too many) who vote for bills that their constituency oppose or at least plead for more discussion. The Democratic majority ram bills through congress, often without having read the details. Exhaustive bills of a thousand pages or more are introduced and the party leadership forces early votes.
Where is the debate? Why are we not doing the research and considering what is best for the American people? Why are bills introduced by the opposing party buried in committees and never allowed to be heard on the floor? You know, there is a reason why the Founding Father's built in a system of checks and balances. That same wise idea should be employed in congress. We need healthy debate so the best possible options can be vetted for the people of this great land.
I've thought about this for some time now. I've wondered why Democratic leadership is taking such a risk. Are they not worried about backlash from their constituency? Do they think they'll safely ride on Obama's coattails? Do they feel like America gave them some mandate to press forward every liberal thought that ever crossed a liberal mind? The answer is probably yes to all of these questions. However, I think there might be one more... and it is very disconcerting to me.
One of the reasons our Founders issued the Declaration of Independence 233 years ago was their objection to British prideful aristocracy. British royalty felt like they were God's gift to mankind and owned the colonies. Colonist needed the intelligence and wealth of the royals to survive. Colonist also existed for the realm, not the realm for the colonist. No wonder early American colonist rallied around this revolutionary thought:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
It appears to me that a new aristocracy is developing in America... a Political Aristocracy. Many of our politicians seem to believe that they are God's gift to mankind. They pass laws like they "own" the American people. They vote as if only they have the necessary intelligence to take care of the less intelligently endowed normal folk who possess the land. Only the wealth of this new aristocratic government can provide what is necessary for their needs. Finally, these political aristocrats act like lowly Americans exist for them, not them for the American people. This thought is confirmed every time I hear names like Pelosi, Reid, and Obama.
You know, I feel pretty certain that this is not the kind of change that most Americans were hoping for. I hope that Americans will soon wake up to this growing threat to peace and prosperity. Maybe we need to resolve, as the Founders did, "that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it."
Maybe it's time to throw out those who believe they are the political elite... a new aristocracy that is as dangerous as any that once wielded power in Britain. We need to either vote them out of office or reduce their salaries... take away their special retirement plan that will bankrupt this country as quickly as the unions imposed retirements destroyed GM. If nothing else, we all need to pay better attention to what the "royals" are doing in Washington and let them know of our growing concerns.
I have little respect for royalty... especially political royalty. There is only one royal that gets my vote... and that is the King of kings... all else are simply men and women given the privilege to serve the greatest nation on earth... even the United States of America.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
"Something Significant"
What a great week... for those who believe in dreams anyway. For those who read my previous blog, I wish I could say that "something significant" made itself evident this week. Well, something significant did happen, but not for me.
You'd have to have spent the week in a cave if you do not recognize the name: Susan Boyle. This middle-aged woman has gone from Scottish nobody to YouTube sensation. Once Ms Boyle went viral, she appeared on US morning shows and was reported on by Charles Gibson on World News Tonight. Why? Because this nobody can sing.
And that brings me to the reason for this post. You see, as I said in my last blog, not all dreams are dashed upon the rocks of reality. When Susan Boyle stepped onto the stage of Britain's Got Talent, the immediate response, from everyone, was one of mocking and laughter. If I had been in her shoes (certainly not her dress), I would have been tempted to exit stage left. But Ms Boyle knew something that nobody else did... she had a dream and she knew it was in reach, because she could sing. The first few notes from her mouth silenced the crowd and made immediate believers out of everyone in the hall.
There are two important things to note about this very intriguing event. First, everyone there, both judges and audience, judged Ms Boyle by her looks. She looked very average at best and admittedly was from rural Scotland. What stellar performer could possibly come from such a plain background? Second, the song Ms Boyle chose to sing was: "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Miserables. Such irony there. Ms Boyle lives her dream by singing a song about a woman, Fantine, whose own dreams had died: "life killed the dream [she] dreamed."
"Something significant"? Yes, for Susan Boyle... and I applaud her for it. I hope it leads her to humble fame and fortune. Why? Because if "something significant" can happen to the Susan Boyles of the world, it can happen to anyone... including some Basicguy.
You'd have to have spent the week in a cave if you do not recognize the name: Susan Boyle. This middle-aged woman has gone from Scottish nobody to YouTube sensation. Once Ms Boyle went viral, she appeared on US morning shows and was reported on by Charles Gibson on World News Tonight. Why? Because this nobody can sing.
And that brings me to the reason for this post. You see, as I said in my last blog, not all dreams are dashed upon the rocks of reality. When Susan Boyle stepped onto the stage of Britain's Got Talent, the immediate response, from everyone, was one of mocking and laughter. If I had been in her shoes (certainly not her dress), I would have been tempted to exit stage left. But Ms Boyle knew something that nobody else did... she had a dream and she knew it was in reach, because she could sing. The first few notes from her mouth silenced the crowd and made immediate believers out of everyone in the hall.
There are two important things to note about this very intriguing event. First, everyone there, both judges and audience, judged Ms Boyle by her looks. She looked very average at best and admittedly was from rural Scotland. What stellar performer could possibly come from such a plain background? Second, the song Ms Boyle chose to sing was: "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Miserables. Such irony there. Ms Boyle lives her dream by singing a song about a woman, Fantine, whose own dreams had died: "life killed the dream [she] dreamed."
"Something significant"? Yes, for Susan Boyle... and I applaud her for it. I hope it leads her to humble fame and fortune. Why? Because if "something significant" can happen to the Susan Boyles of the world, it can happen to anyone... including some Basicguy.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Dreams Dashed on Rocks of Reality
As I woke up Easter morning I became aware of a dream I had been dreaming. I like dreams that have some meaning to them. They provide a little mystery in life... leaving one to wonder if there is something prophetic about the dream (or is that pathetic?!). In this case, I was sitting somewhere at a grassy park writing in my journal. The entry read: "Something significant is about to happen in your life." At that point in the dream, people kept interrupting my revere. I was unable to ponder just what "something significant" might mean. I awoke before I had a chance to find out.
As with many dreams, they don't often get fulfilled in a timely manner... at least as soon as mere mortals would like. So here it is a couple of days later, and still nothing on the horizon that looks "significant." It won't be long and the mere mortal in me will forget all about the dream... probably until "something significant" does happen. But then again, there are many kinds of dreams, and experience has taught that most are unfulfilled... and, of course, the reality of it is that we're better if they aren't.
With all this as background, I got a call from my daughter. She was really excited to share some news. She explained she had been to a fair the week before and had entered some drawings. Well, her dream had come true. A person called to tell her she had won a trip to one of 25 different locations for 3 days and 2 nights! Imagine that... a free trip... right.
Well, having had a large number of such calls in my own life, I wasn't quite as excited as she was. She didn't understand my sarcasm and wondered why I wasn't sharing in her luck. Realizing that I wasn't doing much to cheer my daughter on, I turned the phone over to my wife... who told me later that I had squelched my daughter's enthusiasm. Is that what dad's are for?
I suppose that I've had enough dreams dashed upon the rocks of reality, that real life got the upper hand in this case... unfortunately, for my daughter. I should have just shared in her joy and let life handle it. Well, we live and learn... or should.
Now, just because I'm a Basicguy doesn't mean that I believe that dreams come from travel and condo outfits. My daughter's dream had nothing to do with business, just the luck of the draw and a wonderful chance to see some cool and exotic place. I think a whole lot of people can relate to that. I also believe that not all dreams are dashed upon reality's rocks. At least I hope they aren't... I'm waiting upon "something significant" myself.
As with many dreams, they don't often get fulfilled in a timely manner... at least as soon as mere mortals would like. So here it is a couple of days later, and still nothing on the horizon that looks "significant." It won't be long and the mere mortal in me will forget all about the dream... probably until "something significant" does happen. But then again, there are many kinds of dreams, and experience has taught that most are unfulfilled... and, of course, the reality of it is that we're better if they aren't.
With all this as background, I got a call from my daughter. She was really excited to share some news. She explained she had been to a fair the week before and had entered some drawings. Well, her dream had come true. A person called to tell her she had won a trip to one of 25 different locations for 3 days and 2 nights! Imagine that... a free trip... right.
Well, having had a large number of such calls in my own life, I wasn't quite as excited as she was. She didn't understand my sarcasm and wondered why I wasn't sharing in her luck. Realizing that I wasn't doing much to cheer my daughter on, I turned the phone over to my wife... who told me later that I had squelched my daughter's enthusiasm. Is that what dad's are for?
I suppose that I've had enough dreams dashed upon the rocks of reality, that real life got the upper hand in this case... unfortunately, for my daughter. I should have just shared in her joy and let life handle it. Well, we live and learn... or should.
Now, just because I'm a Basicguy doesn't mean that I believe that dreams come from travel and condo outfits. My daughter's dream had nothing to do with business, just the luck of the draw and a wonderful chance to see some cool and exotic place. I think a whole lot of people can relate to that. I also believe that not all dreams are dashed upon reality's rocks. At least I hope they aren't... I'm waiting upon "something significant" myself.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Kicking the Dog
So it was our date night (as each Friday is) and when we hit the button on the garage door opener, our Beagle darted out of the garage yelping and running back and forth. By the time we all get into the house, her yelping and darting continued. She ran from one room to another and back again... all excited to see her master.
Boy, do I feel loved. Dog's can do that to you. I could have kicked her before I left and she would have acted the very same way when I got home. All is forgotten... just glad I'm home. She was so excited tonight that I thought she might have a heart attack. Soon she was out of breath... and energy. It left me feeling pretty self-conscious. Do I deserve such devoted attention? But after I threw her a bone, I decided that I did.
As I pondered this experience, it reminded me of conversations I had heard earlier in the day on talk radio. Some of the most outrageously bad political and economic news in decades has hit this country. We have never had four straight months of record unemployment numbers. The stock market has plunged over 3,000 points since Election Day. Huge stimulus bills have been passed after bitter political battles in congress. And yet President Obama enjoys stellar approval ratings.
Mr. Obama has been less than perfect. Some of his executive decisions have been contrary to what he promised during the campaign. Many of his appointments have been tax evaders. His stimulus package has been proved mired in earmarks. He has been caught in lies. In essence, he kicked the dog on his way out of the house, and yet when he returns, Americans, like my dog, yelp and dart back and forth in joyful ecstasy to celebrate his return. And Mr. Obama throws a bone.
What is it? Why such Clinton-esque teflon? Now, I'm just a basicguy, but it all seems to border on worship to me. I once wrote that Mr. Obama's victory was more historical than anything else. People had captured the history of the moment. The first black man (well, half black anyway). Fairly young. Considered articulate. Cool and with it. But now that two months have passed, along with horrendous economic woes and obvious missteps, and still his approval ratings soar. I'm left with one explanation. Some Americans worship Mr. Obama.
As for me, I'd say this is very dangerous ground for this country. When one is worshiped, and that person knows it, the temptation to get away with anything your heart desires is real. And so Mr. Obama is getting away with anything he chooses to do. So, how long will the dog let himself get kicked before he finally bites the hand of the master? I hope it's not long. The future of America as we know is at stake.
Boy, do I feel loved. Dog's can do that to you. I could have kicked her before I left and she would have acted the very same way when I got home. All is forgotten... just glad I'm home. She was so excited tonight that I thought she might have a heart attack. Soon she was out of breath... and energy. It left me feeling pretty self-conscious. Do I deserve such devoted attention? But after I threw her a bone, I decided that I did.
As I pondered this experience, it reminded me of conversations I had heard earlier in the day on talk radio. Some of the most outrageously bad political and economic news in decades has hit this country. We have never had four straight months of record unemployment numbers. The stock market has plunged over 3,000 points since Election Day. Huge stimulus bills have been passed after bitter political battles in congress. And yet President Obama enjoys stellar approval ratings.
Mr. Obama has been less than perfect. Some of his executive decisions have been contrary to what he promised during the campaign. Many of his appointments have been tax evaders. His stimulus package has been proved mired in earmarks. He has been caught in lies. In essence, he kicked the dog on his way out of the house, and yet when he returns, Americans, like my dog, yelp and dart back and forth in joyful ecstasy to celebrate his return. And Mr. Obama throws a bone.
What is it? Why such Clinton-esque teflon? Now, I'm just a basicguy, but it all seems to border on worship to me. I once wrote that Mr. Obama's victory was more historical than anything else. People had captured the history of the moment. The first black man (well, half black anyway). Fairly young. Considered articulate. Cool and with it. But now that two months have passed, along with horrendous economic woes and obvious missteps, and still his approval ratings soar. I'm left with one explanation. Some Americans worship Mr. Obama.
As for me, I'd say this is very dangerous ground for this country. When one is worshiped, and that person knows it, the temptation to get away with anything your heart desires is real. And so Mr. Obama is getting away with anything he chooses to do. So, how long will the dog let himself get kicked before he finally bites the hand of the master? I hope it's not long. The future of America as we know is at stake.
Friday, February 27, 2009
This Goose is Cooked!
Have you heard of the old proverb: "What's good for the goose is good for the gander"? These days I'm kind of liking the idea. If the goose represents the Federal Government and the gander represents the American people, we could be on to something really wonderful. Think of it, whatever the government does, we can do! If the government can print money... so can we! If the government can live beyond its' means... so can we. If the government can make expensive purchases and pass it on to their children's-children's-children... hey, why not us? Pretty exciting, huh? Gosh, I thought I didn't want the promised "change" that was coming. Unfortunately, this goose is cooked. What of the gander?
As I read the news and try to get my mind around the unfathomable proposals being made by the Obama administration, I am reminded of a passage in the Old Testament:
In Isaiah's day, Egypt was a world military and financial power. Zoan (Tannis) and Noph (Memphis) were capital cities of Egypt at different times in it's history. The princes are those who ruled. Does any of this sound familiar? In light of what is developing in this country, I hear an ancient echo... and a modern prophet saying:
Can you hear the echo? I think we need to listen up and do something crazy. You know, like... care--care about what's happening all around us. Let's not only care about what's in it for us, but what's in it for our children, and their children, and their children. Let's be wiser than the fools in Washington who think they can establish a budget on money that does not, and never will, exist. Let's support wiser politicians who are trying their hardest to stand in the way of Obama's "Fool's Express."
Now, I know I'm just a basicguy, but sometimes I wish that everyone was a bit more basic... especially the fools in Washington.
As I read the news and try to get my mind around the unfathomable proposals being made by the Obama administration, I am reminded of a passage in the Old Testament:
"The princes of Zoan are become fools, the princes of Noph are deceived; they have also seduced Egypt, even they that are the stay of the tribes thereof" (Isaiah 19:13).
In Isaiah's day, Egypt was a world military and financial power. Zoan (Tannis) and Noph (Memphis) were capital cities of Egypt at different times in it's history. The princes are those who ruled. Does any of this sound familiar? In light of what is developing in this country, I hear an ancient echo... and a modern prophet saying:
"The politicians of Washington are become fools, the politicians of state-houses are deceived; they have also seduced America, even they that are descended from America's origin."
Can you hear the echo? I think we need to listen up and do something crazy. You know, like... care--care about what's happening all around us. Let's not only care about what's in it for us, but what's in it for our children, and their children, and their children. Let's be wiser than the fools in Washington who think they can establish a budget on money that does not, and never will, exist. Let's support wiser politicians who are trying their hardest to stand in the way of Obama's "Fool's Express."
Now, I know I'm just a basicguy, but sometimes I wish that everyone was a bit more basic... especially the fools in Washington.
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Last Train to Pottersville
I don't know how many people I said it to, but I swear it was a million! I don't know how many times I heard a conservative say, "Maybe it's best that McCain loses so the Democrats will fail. We'll win in four." Each time I screamed within: "Are you kidding me?" Then out loud: "I think that we'd be better off with four years of McCain than four years with Obama."
Well, I hate to say it, but I told you so. Conservatives felt betrayed! I know, I'm one of them. But I think I'd deal far better with hurt feelings than with the mess the Obama train is plunging this country into. The unapparent transparent President has conducted his train to "Pottersville" of "It's a Wonderful Life" fame. With the help of Dumb and Dumber (Pelosi and Reid), his train rocketed through the congressional country-side with hardly a stop. No one knows what's on this train... there are over a thousand cars... and you and I are left paying for the trip.
All along this journey, Obama has made conservatives and Republicans look like the bad guys. He was the one who reached across the isle. He took the high road and offered cabinet positions to Republicans. He is the one who took a stand for Main Street Americans.
You know, Obama did finally point out that he's also the one... who won! That's right... that's what he said. He pointed out to Republicans that he is the one who won the election. I guess that makes his word unapproachable. Mr. Obama can't be challenged. He's not just above the law, he is the law. Well, I'm sorry, but that's not now things work. We need to remember that 47% of Americans did not vote for Mr. Obama.
Notice something else Mr. Obama said:
"You can't just listen to Rush Limbaugh and get things done. There are big things that unify Republicans and Democrats. We shouldn't let partisan politics derail what are very important things that need to get done."
Republicans are guilty of partisan politics because they listen to Rush Limbaugh. I wonder what it is when Democrats blindly listen to Mr. Obama? Mr. Obama wants Republicans and Democrats to set aside partisan politics and work together. By the way Democrats rushed the unstimulating "Stimulus Package" through their congressional fairyland; I'm beginning to understand just what Mr. Obama means by non-partisan. Repbulicans (like Snow and Spector) become non-partisans when they come to Obama's socialist table and eat, drink, and be merry.
That's right... we need another party--just like the Democratic Party. Of course, a one party system! That's genius Mr. Obama. That's sure to send the country even more swiftly to Pottersville. Gosh, if I hurry, maybe I can get one of those run down shacks in Potter's field!
Well, I hate to say it, but I told you so. Conservatives felt betrayed! I know, I'm one of them. But I think I'd deal far better with hurt feelings than with the mess the Obama train is plunging this country into. The unapparent transparent President has conducted his train to "Pottersville" of "It's a Wonderful Life" fame. With the help of Dumb and Dumber (Pelosi and Reid), his train rocketed through the congressional country-side with hardly a stop. No one knows what's on this train... there are over a thousand cars... and you and I are left paying for the trip.
All along this journey, Obama has made conservatives and Republicans look like the bad guys. He was the one who reached across the isle. He took the high road and offered cabinet positions to Republicans. He is the one who took a stand for Main Street Americans.
You know, Obama did finally point out that he's also the one... who won! That's right... that's what he said. He pointed out to Republicans that he is the one who won the election. I guess that makes his word unapproachable. Mr. Obama can't be challenged. He's not just above the law, he is the law. Well, I'm sorry, but that's not now things work. We need to remember that 47% of Americans did not vote for Mr. Obama.
Notice something else Mr. Obama said:
"You can't just listen to Rush Limbaugh and get things done. There are big things that unify Republicans and Democrats. We shouldn't let partisan politics derail what are very important things that need to get done."
Republicans are guilty of partisan politics because they listen to Rush Limbaugh. I wonder what it is when Democrats blindly listen to Mr. Obama? Mr. Obama wants Republicans and Democrats to set aside partisan politics and work together. By the way Democrats rushed the unstimulating "Stimulus Package" through their congressional fairyland; I'm beginning to understand just what Mr. Obama means by non-partisan. Repbulicans (like Snow and Spector) become non-partisans when they come to Obama's socialist table and eat, drink, and be merry.
That's right... we need another party--just like the Democratic Party. Of course, a one party system! That's genius Mr. Obama. That's sure to send the country even more swiftly to Pottersville. Gosh, if I hurry, maybe I can get one of those run down shacks in Potter's field!
Conspiracy Anyone?
It's been a long time since I heard anything about conspiracy theories. Those who used to write and talk about them were rejected as idiots or malcontents. They were mocked and laughed at... until no one took them seriously. Societies that grew up around such theories have now been put in their place. Where have all the anti-UNers gone to? What ever happened to those who exposed the tri-lateral Commission or the Council on Foreign Relations for what they really are?
Are you done laughing yet? See, I brought back some memories for you. But before you fall off your chair in a humorous fit, you might want to consider this little insight written Sunday, February 15th, 2009. It was a lengthy piece written by Joan Swirsky, an award winning author. Ms. Swirsky wrote:
Now, I'm just a Basicguy, but that sounds an awful lot like a conspiracy theory to me. Does that make Ms. Swirsky one of those crazies we used to mock? I assume there will be those who will try to characterize her as such. However, if there is any truth to what she is saying (and her article lays out a very nice case for her position), that would be sad indeed, especially if we allowed ourselves to be kept from the truth by preferring the believe those who point a mocking finger. Notice what else Ms. Swirsky wrote:
Would you like to see more? How about this:
Am I a conspiracy theorist? I don't think so. I certainly do not see a conspiracy behind every action. However, I think it would be hard to argue (as some would have us believe) that there have never been, or will ever be, conspiracies. I think there are extremes to each side of the argument.
Still, there seems to be something shady about the whole Obama rise to power. I have had my suspicions all along. But how can we possibly see through all the lies and seeming secrets... a vast web of deceit hidden behind locked doors? One thing is for sure, one day, everything will come to light. I just hope when it does it isn't too late.
Are you done laughing yet? See, I brought back some memories for you. But before you fall off your chair in a humorous fit, you might want to consider this little insight written Sunday, February 15th, 2009. It was a lengthy piece written by Joan Swirsky, an award winning author. Ms. Swirsky wrote:
This leads me to only one conclusion, which I wrote about in a former article: “Obama: The Trojan Horse.” My theory is that President Obama’s narcissistic charm, even temperament, skill with words (teleprompter included), hunger to please, radical agenda, and subterranean rage at the “unfair” American system have been brilliantly exploited by powerful leftist radicals and Marxists in the United States, who for decades have plotted America’s path to socialism. He is their pawn, totally dispensable but handy while the “aura” lasts.
Now, I'm just a Basicguy, but that sounds an awful lot like a conspiracy theory to me. Does that make Ms. Swirsky one of those crazies we used to mock? I assume there will be those who will try to characterize her as such. However, if there is any truth to what she is saying (and her article lays out a very nice case for her position), that would be sad indeed, especially if we allowed ourselves to be kept from the truth by preferring the believe those who point a mocking finger. Notice what else Ms. Swirsky wrote:
These “handlers” saw in Obama the ideal blank slate on which to actualize their agenda, and they made sure the slate remained blank by concealing (or destroying) any evidence of his past, including his birth certificate, Selective Service record, visa(s), school transcripts, and other vital documents. All of which is costing his moneyed backers – including America-loathing billionaire George Soros – multimillions in lawyers’ fees to fight the proliferating lawsuits that seek the truth about this stealth president.
Would you like to see more? How about this:
It is clear that Obama and his fellow radicals are restive. In the less-than four weeks of his presidency, the new president has taken volumes from the Marxian handbook, which dictates that the stupid masses be blitzed with an overload of information, hollow press conferences, appointments, dismantling of formerly effective national-security programs, et al., in order to set the stage for a massive, Soviet-style takeover of our government, including a civilian national security force that Obama has said should be “just as powerful, strong and well-funded as the U.S. military.” Echoes of Nazi Germany in 1938, anyone?
Am I a conspiracy theorist? I don't think so. I certainly do not see a conspiracy behind every action. However, I think it would be hard to argue (as some would have us believe) that there have never been, or will ever be, conspiracies. I think there are extremes to each side of the argument.
Still, there seems to be something shady about the whole Obama rise to power. I have had my suspicions all along. But how can we possibly see through all the lies and seeming secrets... a vast web of deceit hidden behind locked doors? One thing is for sure, one day, everything will come to light. I just hope when it does it isn't too late.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Un-American or Un-God?
I was a little peeved last week when Tom Hanks accused the Mormons of being "un-American." I wanted to write something then, but held back because of some really good articles that hit the Internet the very next day. Of course, Mr. Hanks apologized... though it seemed a bit half-hearted.
Then Samuel L. Jackson came to the rescue. It seems that Mr. Hanks was wrong, the Mormons aren't "un-American," they're just "misinformed." Now that feels better doesn't it? What reasonable person can fault the Mormons for putting up a political fight in California on an issue that is central to their theology? By its very nature, their action is very much American as established by our Founders.
But what about being misinformed? Is it logical to think that all those married Mormons with larger than average families are misinformed about what should be established as traditional marriage? I suppose that in the eyes of non-traditional Hollywood, the Mormon position might appear to be "misinformed." If that's the case then so be it.
However, I wonder if the real issue isn't whether the Mormons are "un-American" or "misinformed," but rather that Hollywood is "un-God" or "spiritually ignorant." Now, I'm just a basicguy, but if I had to vote... I'd vote for the latter.
Then Samuel L. Jackson came to the rescue. It seems that Mr. Hanks was wrong, the Mormons aren't "un-American," they're just "misinformed." Now that feels better doesn't it? What reasonable person can fault the Mormons for putting up a political fight in California on an issue that is central to their theology? By its very nature, their action is very much American as established by our Founders.
But what about being misinformed? Is it logical to think that all those married Mormons with larger than average families are misinformed about what should be established as traditional marriage? I suppose that in the eyes of non-traditional Hollywood, the Mormon position might appear to be "misinformed." If that's the case then so be it.
However, I wonder if the real issue isn't whether the Mormons are "un-American" or "misinformed," but rather that Hollywood is "un-God" or "spiritually ignorant." Now, I'm just a basicguy, but if I had to vote... I'd vote for the latter.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Happy Birthday Macintosh!
Can you believe it? Today we celebrate the 25th birthday of the Macintosh. My first computer experience was on a "Fat" Mac in 1986. The first Mac I wanted to buy was the Macintosh SE/30. The Mac I finally bought and joyfully use is a MacBook Pro. In my way of celebrating the birthday of a revolution, and an expression of appreciation, I offer below an article I wrote (and tried to publish) in the early 90s. Happy birthday Mac! Thanks for the ride.
"As the countdown continues for the long awaited release of Windows 95, Apple continues its pursuit of peaceful co-existence. Talk of a PowerPC that will run Windows and Mac software on the same platform fills on-line message boards and magazines. I guess the IBM vs. Mac war is over. It now has become the Mac vs. Microsoft war and Apple has entered into some strange alliances to do battle with the Redmond giant.
"What has happened to the Apple that I grew up with? Should they settle for this peaceful co-existence as if accepting an inevitable truth? 'Our machines will run Windows better than IBM machines and we will throw in Mac software running under System 7.5 as a bonus!' The world has fled a long ways from the Mac world that I remember—a day when the letters IBM stood for 'I’ll buy Mac!' Oh, how the Mac-patriots rallied!
"It was 1986 and I was beginning post-graduate work at Utah State University. I received my first introduction to Macintosh. It was a desktop publishing seminar and I was in computer heaven. I cut my teeth on a Mac and then was weaned from it in a matter of a year. I eventually gave in to the reality of being employed in an IBM world and succumbed to the DOS disease and nearly died. I watched the Mac from a distance. I loved its revolution. I loved its daring philosophy. I loved its appeal. I loved the fight with the IBM enemy. But I owned an IBM clone.
"Now, all these years later, my IBM looks more and more like a Mac with each passing day. Yet, I know that it will never be the same. Windows brought ease of use to a whole generation of users who once upon a time argued for DOS. Now they feel as though they are part of a revolution and a daring philosophy. It’s a mind game; a facade. The revolution is over. It came and left almost unnoticed by the lion share of computer users around the world. There are those now who enjoy WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) and wonder how they lived without it; others marvel at the promise of plug-n-play and dream about adding a modem without the worry of proper IRQ’s, etc.; still others salivate as they ponder the articles regarding Windows 95 Explorer that will free them from Program Manager’s constraints; others consider the joy of making up titles for files that actually represent what is in it rather than some eight character cryptic code that looks like a foreign language when they scroll through their files. Yet, at the true revolution, the Mac revolution, all of these things already brought joy and peace to Mac-patriots.
"Is it true then that since Apple has been dealt the deaf ear by so many for so long, that the war is over? Should they raise the white flag and concede the victory to Microsoft? To many, that is what peaceful co-existence appears to be. Maybe Apple could still keep a place in history as a trailblazer while Microsoft builds the cities. If there is any truth to this image, sadly, people will flock to the urban areas for work. Once again, Mac will be left out in the cold.
"I don’t say that it’s fair nor does it mean that the best man wins. It may come down to the simple fact that the DOS world won the 'it makes sense' war. With all the marvelous things that the Mac environment brought, business only wanted to crunch numbers and novices only wanted to type letters. They never took notice of the special features that made the Mac different.
"Besides it made dollar sense. Mac’s appeared pricey because its specialties weren’t noticed as necessary. As people became aware of computer talk and techno-jabber and once again looked at that other machine they would notice some startling differences. They would see a 68040/33 with a 170 meg HD and one 3.5@ disk drive and go goo-goo eyed over a 486/33 with a 420 meg HD and two disk drives to boot! What gives! Who’d buy a Mac? Who can afford one? They’d never realize for example that you can fit a lot more Mac programs on its hard drive because of code variances. They’d fall for the 'it makes sense' ideology once again. 'Besides, I have Windows now.'
"Yes, that’s it. 'We have Windows now.' It all seems like a betrayal to me. The great coup! The Mac revolution may have seen its final days. Or has it? Time will give us the answer. In the mean time, Apple needs to send out its disciples once again, declaring the doctrine of first cause. 'Why get a clone when you can have the original?' Then Apple needs to back it with an even better pricing structure. It may mean some lean times but that is the nature of the beast these days. Capture the hearts of patriots. Win the battle for the home and patriots will want to work in that environment at the office. Only don’t delay. Start another revolution by capturing people’s imagination. Win the war of ideas. And when they look this time make sure that 'it makes sense.' Remember, there is no revolution in peaceful co-existence.”
"As the countdown continues for the long awaited release of Windows 95, Apple continues its pursuit of peaceful co-existence. Talk of a PowerPC that will run Windows and Mac software on the same platform fills on-line message boards and magazines. I guess the IBM vs. Mac war is over. It now has become the Mac vs. Microsoft war and Apple has entered into some strange alliances to do battle with the Redmond giant.
"What has happened to the Apple that I grew up with? Should they settle for this peaceful co-existence as if accepting an inevitable truth? 'Our machines will run Windows better than IBM machines and we will throw in Mac software running under System 7.5 as a bonus!' The world has fled a long ways from the Mac world that I remember—a day when the letters IBM stood for 'I’ll buy Mac!' Oh, how the Mac-patriots rallied!
"It was 1986 and I was beginning post-graduate work at Utah State University. I received my first introduction to Macintosh. It was a desktop publishing seminar and I was in computer heaven. I cut my teeth on a Mac and then was weaned from it in a matter of a year. I eventually gave in to the reality of being employed in an IBM world and succumbed to the DOS disease and nearly died. I watched the Mac from a distance. I loved its revolution. I loved its daring philosophy. I loved its appeal. I loved the fight with the IBM enemy. But I owned an IBM clone.
"Now, all these years later, my IBM looks more and more like a Mac with each passing day. Yet, I know that it will never be the same. Windows brought ease of use to a whole generation of users who once upon a time argued for DOS. Now they feel as though they are part of a revolution and a daring philosophy. It’s a mind game; a facade. The revolution is over. It came and left almost unnoticed by the lion share of computer users around the world. There are those now who enjoy WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) and wonder how they lived without it; others marvel at the promise of plug-n-play and dream about adding a modem without the worry of proper IRQ’s, etc.; still others salivate as they ponder the articles regarding Windows 95 Explorer that will free them from Program Manager’s constraints; others consider the joy of making up titles for files that actually represent what is in it rather than some eight character cryptic code that looks like a foreign language when they scroll through their files. Yet, at the true revolution, the Mac revolution, all of these things already brought joy and peace to Mac-patriots.
"Is it true then that since Apple has been dealt the deaf ear by so many for so long, that the war is over? Should they raise the white flag and concede the victory to Microsoft? To many, that is what peaceful co-existence appears to be. Maybe Apple could still keep a place in history as a trailblazer while Microsoft builds the cities. If there is any truth to this image, sadly, people will flock to the urban areas for work. Once again, Mac will be left out in the cold.
"I don’t say that it’s fair nor does it mean that the best man wins. It may come down to the simple fact that the DOS world won the 'it makes sense' war. With all the marvelous things that the Mac environment brought, business only wanted to crunch numbers and novices only wanted to type letters. They never took notice of the special features that made the Mac different.
"Besides it made dollar sense. Mac’s appeared pricey because its specialties weren’t noticed as necessary. As people became aware of computer talk and techno-jabber and once again looked at that other machine they would notice some startling differences. They would see a 68040/33 with a 170 meg HD and one 3.5@ disk drive and go goo-goo eyed over a 486/33 with a 420 meg HD and two disk drives to boot! What gives! Who’d buy a Mac? Who can afford one? They’d never realize for example that you can fit a lot more Mac programs on its hard drive because of code variances. They’d fall for the 'it makes sense' ideology once again. 'Besides, I have Windows now.'
"Yes, that’s it. 'We have Windows now.' It all seems like a betrayal to me. The great coup! The Mac revolution may have seen its final days. Or has it? Time will give us the answer. In the mean time, Apple needs to send out its disciples once again, declaring the doctrine of first cause. 'Why get a clone when you can have the original?' Then Apple needs to back it with an even better pricing structure. It may mean some lean times but that is the nature of the beast these days. Capture the hearts of patriots. Win the battle for the home and patriots will want to work in that environment at the office. Only don’t delay. Start another revolution by capturing people’s imagination. Win the war of ideas. And when they look this time make sure that 'it makes sense.' Remember, there is no revolution in peaceful co-existence.”
Thursday, January 22, 2009
"There's No Place Like This Home"
We recently had our son and his family spend a week with us. My son is in his last year of law school in Nebraska and had come for some potential job interviews. It was a great week to have him, his wife, and three kids with us. We don't see them that often. So when the week ended, it was hard to watch them drive away.
Since it is a long drive home we naturally worried about them. We called every so often to check on their progress. After they got home, I asked my son if his kids were glad to be home. He said as soon as they arrived, the two oldest jumped out of the car and ran to the front door of the apartment complex. Once inside, he said he found his 4 year old son excitedly hugging his bedroom wall. Now, if that isn't happy to be home, what is?
Isn't that the way it is? Like Dorothy declared in the Wizard of Oz: "there's no place like home." And so there isn't. I suppose that most of us are like that. We have a place we call home and prefer to be there. It is the place we are most comfortable; the place where our best memories have a life of their own. There is no place we'd rather be for the holidays.
In some ways that's how I feel about my country. I'm comfortable with its beginnings and history. I love its institutions and ideals. All are created equal and have access to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It just feels like home. In fact there's no place like this home.
Sadly, like so many homes of the past, this home is being sold for a price. New owners are threatening to move the furniture, change the carpet, and paint the walls. It won't be long and it won't feel like home anymore. From the Whitehouse to Wall Street to Main Street, the storm clouds on the horizon portend an Ozian twister that will sweep us to a place that cannot really exist in a constitutional world. I hope that there will be masses of basicguys like me longing for Kansas because "there's no place like this home."
Since it is a long drive home we naturally worried about them. We called every so often to check on their progress. After they got home, I asked my son if his kids were glad to be home. He said as soon as they arrived, the two oldest jumped out of the car and ran to the front door of the apartment complex. Once inside, he said he found his 4 year old son excitedly hugging his bedroom wall. Now, if that isn't happy to be home, what is?
Isn't that the way it is? Like Dorothy declared in the Wizard of Oz: "there's no place like home." And so there isn't. I suppose that most of us are like that. We have a place we call home and prefer to be there. It is the place we are most comfortable; the place where our best memories have a life of their own. There is no place we'd rather be for the holidays.
In some ways that's how I feel about my country. I'm comfortable with its beginnings and history. I love its institutions and ideals. All are created equal and have access to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It just feels like home. In fact there's no place like this home.
Sadly, like so many homes of the past, this home is being sold for a price. New owners are threatening to move the furniture, change the carpet, and paint the walls. It won't be long and it won't feel like home anymore. From the Whitehouse to Wall Street to Main Street, the storm clouds on the horizon portend an Ozian twister that will sweep us to a place that cannot really exist in a constitutional world. I hope that there will be masses of basicguys like me longing for Kansas because "there's no place like this home."
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
America's Hope or Last Breath
I was a little surprised recently to find out that their are those in this country who believe that Western civilization as we know it is nearly on life-support (for example, see Pat Buchanan's "The Death of the West"). Since I'm a fully vested Western civilization person (actually a 4th generation Norwegian American), I must admit, the premise caught my eye. I kind of like our Western civilization. I know it has its flaws, but I'd take it over other offerings around the globe.
Now one of the main insights by those who warn us about our lifeless Western civilization, is population demographic numbers. I have to admit, the numbers are very disconcerting. However, there is one bright spot in the midst of all the gloomy news. That is Ben Steyn's "America Alone." According to Steyn's numbers, the United States still produces enough children per couple to replace our society. The news isn't so good for any of the other countries considered part of Western civilization. They are slowly dying.
Sadly, America isn't fairing all that much better, but at least we are still on the positive side of the ledger. Along with having fewer children, smaller families, what makes things worse for the propagation of American civilization is the 1,000,000 plus abortions that take place each year. If we continue on this path, America, the last gasping breath of Western civilization, will die and disappear into the fabric of some other social order.
Are we willing to listen to reason? If so,
First, let's keep America (indeed Western civilization) alive by holding fast to the ideas and institutions that have made this country free and great for over 200 years. That will be a challenge because there are people arguing for and promoting different ideas and institutions that contribute more to the demise of America than its life.
Second, let's get excited about family again. The traditional family is the best suited option for propagating our species and nation; the larger the family, the better. Now I do realize that there are some legitimate restraints for capping family sizes. Some can have more than others. But if we would all have as many as we are able to under our separate circumstances, America will live on and even get up from its bed of affliction.
Finally, we need a sane approach to abortion. There are way too many frivolous abortions in this country and throughout the world. There are those who say that most Americans support abortion (or a woman's right to choose). That's just nonsense. Fortunately, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops recently commissioned a study (which surveyed a cross section of American society) on the matter. Deirdre McQuade, assistant director of the study said:
"Four out of five American adults -- 82 percent -- think abortion should be either illegal under all circumstances or with limited legality, and only nine percent said that abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy."
Well, there you have it. That's my take on saving Western civilization. Now, I know I'm only a basicguy, but being a father of five and a grandfather of four (# five is due any day now), I think I can speak from a position of knowledge and experience. My family loves our Western culture, and especially this great country we live in. I'd hope that all similar loving folk respond before America's last breath.
Now one of the main insights by those who warn us about our lifeless Western civilization, is population demographic numbers. I have to admit, the numbers are very disconcerting. However, there is one bright spot in the midst of all the gloomy news. That is Ben Steyn's "America Alone." According to Steyn's numbers, the United States still produces enough children per couple to replace our society. The news isn't so good for any of the other countries considered part of Western civilization. They are slowly dying.
Sadly, America isn't fairing all that much better, but at least we are still on the positive side of the ledger. Along with having fewer children, smaller families, what makes things worse for the propagation of American civilization is the 1,000,000 plus abortions that take place each year. If we continue on this path, America, the last gasping breath of Western civilization, will die and disappear into the fabric of some other social order.
Are we willing to listen to reason? If so,
First, let's keep America (indeed Western civilization) alive by holding fast to the ideas and institutions that have made this country free and great for over 200 years. That will be a challenge because there are people arguing for and promoting different ideas and institutions that contribute more to the demise of America than its life.
Second, let's get excited about family again. The traditional family is the best suited option for propagating our species and nation; the larger the family, the better. Now I do realize that there are some legitimate restraints for capping family sizes. Some can have more than others. But if we would all have as many as we are able to under our separate circumstances, America will live on and even get up from its bed of affliction.
Finally, we need a sane approach to abortion. There are way too many frivolous abortions in this country and throughout the world. There are those who say that most Americans support abortion (or a woman's right to choose). That's just nonsense. Fortunately, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops recently commissioned a study (which surveyed a cross section of American society) on the matter. Deirdre McQuade, assistant director of the study said:
"Four out of five American adults -- 82 percent -- think abortion should be either illegal under all circumstances or with limited legality, and only nine percent said that abortion should be legal for any reason at any time during pregnancy."
Well, there you have it. That's my take on saving Western civilization. Now, I know I'm only a basicguy, but being a father of five and a grandfather of four (# five is due any day now), I think I can speak from a position of knowledge and experience. My family loves our Western culture, and especially this great country we live in. I'd hope that all similar loving folk respond before America's last breath.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
One Bad Apple
A few months ago, eating an apple during a lunch-time walk, I bit into an area that immediately tasted bitter. As you might expect, I quit chewing and looked at the apple. It was rotting from the inside out. I spit out the offending chunk into my other hand. If I hadn't, it would have come up anyway... an involuntary expelling of matter.
Now, some have tougher stomachs than I do and could have finished that apple without a skipping beat. Or is it that their taste buds are numb... so they can get anything down? I know I'm just a basicguy, but I'd prefer to be able to taste things and repulse food that is rotten.
Now why am I talking about such a silly subject? One reason. I've been following the multitude of news stories that reveal a rotten core in American society. We see it in politics, business, schools, families, neighborhoods, entertainment, and even religion. The recent story of corruption in Illinois politics is just the tip of the ice berg. Watching the evening news shows waves of corruption throughout American society.
Are American societal taste buds numb? How can we continue to stomach such corruptness in our midst and not do something about it? Will we continue to allow individuals with rotten cores to take office without a fight? Personally, I'm sick of the ever growing rotten core. I say cut it out before it corrupts everything else.
Now, it will take an effort. We need more interest at the grassroots level in this country. It's in the grassroots that most normal people reside. That's right... we need to get back to basics. I know, we need a bunch of basic guys and gals to step forward and challenge the rotten status quo. Too many are in business and politics for power, prestige, and profit... what's in it for me. That attitude corrupts. Basic guys and gals tend to think of others and do things for the greater good. Somehow, we've lost that feeling in much of public America.
Now, most apples that I eat have no rotten core. I know America is yet full of good apples. Let's find them and encourage them to stand up to the growing corruption. Then let's support them so they have an opportunity to win and help set new standards for our country. It won't be easy... there is a lot of money in the hands of all the wrong people. But their money can't by votes, only the ability to deceive.
We, the people, the grassroots, must become more vigilant in finding the right people to lead us. We have to take more ownership for the information we obtain, understand, and believe. But we can do it. If we will. I'll do it if you will. Good luck.
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