Basically Speaking

Let the Wind of Change Blow

2011-12-31T21:58:00.001-07:00

The wind blew like crazy last night. Our windows rattled, screens shook, and sounded ominous. The lights flickered and interrupted our reading for a moment. I looked at my wife and assured her we had a working flashlight nearby. Then I thought of the new generator I got for Christmas. Would we have to use it so soon? I hadn't even unboxed it yet

Well, fortunately it didn’t come down to dealing with an emergency. Though the winds continued to howl and whine, we soon fell asleep and missed the rest of the winds assault on the Salt Lake Valley.

The morning, though cold, brought sunshine and blue skies. It was absolutely gorgeous. Quite a contrast from the weeks before. Salt Lake Valley often sports an inversion in the winter. It’s a murky layer of not so pleasant smog... best not breathed in large doses. We’re told to cut down on our driving and to stay indoors if possible. For some the smog can actually be on the deadly side. But today was bright, clear, and beautiful... what a relief.

As I thought about the needed change in this new day, I remembered the wind from the night before. What seemed threatening the night before actually cleared the smog from the valley. The murky atmosphere that tended to affect our moods and trap numerous particles in the air was gone... blown away by the wind.

So it is with winds of change. We all experience a certain murkiness in life. This murkiness can affect our moods and attitudes. If it gets thick enough it also affects how far we can see. Sometimes it can be filled with things that are dangerous to us... impeding our essential progress in life. That's when the storms of life or the winds of change actually do us a favor. With life's murkiness blown away, we can see clearly again and feel hope and excitement. Life is once again gorgeous and beautiful.

So here we are, the end of yet another year... the turning of another page in our lives. Have you experienced any murkiness in 2011? Has it been hard to “see” clearly? Are you ending the year with a discouraging mood or attitude? If so, maybe 2012 can provide a needed wind of change and blow away life’s murky smog. I have a feeling though that whether the wind blows is up to you and me. So this New Year, let the winds blow.

The Sixty-Nine Cent Christmas

2011-12-23T23:46:00.002-07:00

One Christmas I’ll never forget happened many years ago in Southern Idaho. Early in my career as a religious educator I found myself teaching at a small high school near Blackfoot. We had three young sons at the time, which made it hard to pack everything needed to travel for the holidays. Money was tight and it was looking like a meager Christmas.

As a dad, I really wanted to make this first Christmas at our own home a special one. The new technology that year was the VHS player. I thought it would be great to record shows off the TV and play videos for the kids. As new technology arrives it usually comes at a cost, at least until competition helps drive prices down.

So it was on a lark that one day I stopped by a local TV and electronics store hoping beyond hope that something might fit into my price range. It didn’t take long to realize how far off the prices really were. I searched for damaged or scratch and dent VCRs, but didn’t find anything—so much for following a whim and hoping for some good luck.

A bit discouraged I headed for the door when something caught my eye. On the wall near the door a homemade sign announced: “Christmas Fun only $.69.” Below the sign hung a long red plastic sheet. It had two rectangle holes cut near the top of the sheet. I stopped in my tracks and wondered what it was. I asked an employee about it. “It’s a sleigh, you know, for the snow,” I was told. Now, that sounded cool… especially to a guy raised in Southern Nevada.

I thrust my hands into my pocket and determined that this was something I actually could afford. I slapped coins down on the counter and walked out with my Christmas surprise. As I drove home, I found myself hoping it worked and that it would be something the boys would enjoy. It didn’t look like much and so I worried into the night how the family might receive it. It didn’t take long to find out.

On Christmas day, of the few presents opened, the one that provided the most fun was a red plastic sheet that cost $.69. We dashed to the Seminary building that conveniently sat on a hill. All day long we made runs down the hill only taking breaks for hot chocolate. We threw snowballs and sleighed and laughed all day long. Who would have thought that something so simple would provide so much joy? What a Christmas!

So this Christmas, if you find yourself short on cash, remember that the best gifts aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones. Try simplifying your Christmas by giving simple gifts. Most of us would rather enjoy family and time together than things anyway. So, from this basic guy, I wish you a very merry, but basic Christmas.

What's the Hurry?

2011-11-04T16:13:00.000-06:00

I think I almost killed someone this morning. Now, I wasn’t angry, bi-polar, or out of sorts, nor am I a hit man or terrorist. I’m simply a normal Joe who was happily on my way to work. It was dark out because I like to be in the office by about 7:00 am.

I had just turned onto the main road that leads to the Community College where I teach. Now where I live we have two lanes of traffic going both directions separated by a center lane used for turning across traffic or merging into traffic. I was traveling in my formidable SUV in the lane next to the center lane when a little compact car darted across traffic on my left. A city bus barely missed the young lady and let her know it. Because of the speed she was going, she was unable to turn into the center lane. Instead she made a wide arc into my lane.

Now, I have to admit, my reflexes are not as sharp as they once were. Luckily for both of us, I was able to slam on my breaks and avoid a collision. She of course accelerated up the road, probably wondering just how close the grill of my SUV got to her little car as she eyed me in her rear-view mirror. Of course, I was relieved that no one was hurt… OK, I have to admit, the episode did not make me happy… alright, I was ticked. But there was no road rage.

As I reflected on the experience for the remainder of the drive, I came to a couple of conclusions.First, the young lady was probably in a hurry to get to work on time. Who knows, maybe she has a demanding boss that monitors her every move. She came out of a shopping area that only has one business open at that hour of the morning: Starbucks. Well, all of that made sense to me and I began to settle down.

However, the second conclusion that came to me gave me pause. Is there any job, appointment, or destination so critical that it’s worth testing your vary life to make it? What’s the hurry? It seems to me that the last thing you want to hurry to is the unintended end of your life. This young woman came within seconds of such an unfortunate end… twice! I hope she felt it, because if she did, maybe it will serve as a warning. Maybe next time, she’ll hurry less and count her blessings.

What’s the lesson? Well, life is dang fast. It moves almost effortlessly through its twists and turns, highs and lows, and good times and bad. Too often we slip into the flow of things and let life control the pace. Wouldn’t it make more sense to choose the pace ourselves as best we can? In doing so, we’ll have more control over our own lives. So, what’s the hurry?

Just Who has "Diluted" God's Word?

2011-09-29T09:17:00.001-06:00

As I follow the current run for president and consider the political landscape, I continue to be struck by the Mormon issue. It’s not fading away… especially among our evangelical friends. You don’t have to look very far to find a worried evangelical declaring that a vote for a Mormon is a vote for the dark side (or something like that).

Why such a strong objection to a presidential candidate with otherwise capable skills? It still comes back to basic old theology. I suppose they’d say it’s nothing personal, but Mormons are deceived and a Mormon president would deceive the nation. Some are much more kind in their attacks on Mormon’s in politics. For example, one senior pastor named Bob Merrit (who just happens to be Michele Bachmann’s pastor), “delivered a July 2007 sermon titled, ‘Raise Your Religious IQ — Investigating Mormonism’ (available for download via iTunes). He said:

“‘I very respectfully push back and I say (to Mormons) you have taken something extra and added it to (God’s word) to make all of it untrue,’ Merritt said. ‘Think of it this way: what does your car need to run properly? It needs pure, refined petroleum — it needs gasoline. And what happens when you dilute the gasoline with something like water? The car doesn’t run. I think that’s a good analogy for what our Mormon friends have done with God’s word. … The whole thing is diluted, and honestly it just doesn’t work’” (Jamshid Ghazi Askar, “Michele Bachmann’s pastor on Mormonism,” Deseret News, Sept. 6, 2011).

Did I hear that right? He thinks Mormon’s have diluted God’s word? Talk about diluting God’s word, how about a continuous rash of Christian theologians in the 4th and 5th centuries arguing over the very definition of God and finally settling on the most incomprehensible definition of God by majority vote! No one did more to “dilute” the word of God than those man-made council’s. And to think that the entirety of today’s Christendom rests on such a frail foundation.

Fortunately, God has reasserted the truth about Himself--yes, the New Testament truth that was forgotten, ignored and lost for some reason in the 4th and 5th centuries—by appearing to a 14 year-old boy in upstate New York. Nothing “added” as Mr. Merritt suggests, just simply God re-revealed.

Now I’m just a basic guy, but this true God revealed is way more comprehensible and personal than that god defined by argument and majority vote. One thing we can agree on is that God is a loving Father in Heaven and extends His mercies to His children on earth. If a Mormon can believe that, what harm could possible come to the nation under skilled leadership of a Mormon president?

Child of God or King of the Whole World?

2011-08-29T19:32:00.001-06:00

I was sitting in my office today between classes and found myself staring at a calendar on the wall. It was the right month, but I realized I really hadn’t noticed the picture. It showed a beautiful little girl resting her chin on her hand. And the eyes… they were alive. How had I missed this, the month was nearly over? Then I saw the words:

“It is better to be the child of God than king of the whole world” (St. Aloysius Gonzaga).

The message struck me. The truth of it settled nicely into my heart. Most often men or women who seek to rule the world are driven by mortal passions as opposed to God’s will. Therefore, even though all existing world leaders are also children of God, they most often do not act like it. Power really does tend to corrupt and as Lord Acton has so famously said, “absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

But wouldn’t it be a tremendous blessing to the world if the leaders of nations actually lived, and believed, and acted like they were children of God? I think so. Sadly, we’ll have to wait for the coming of God’s Only Begotten Son… the One who actually believes that it is better to be the child of God than the king of the whole world.

I hope He comes soon.

Mr. Obama: Mr. Compromise Once Again

2011-07-25T21:17:00.002-06:00

I sat and watched Mr. Obama tonight. Maybe you did too. He engaged me with his genuine plea to work together. He admitted that Washington is dysfunctional, over-spends, and is self-serving. Mr. Obama invited everyone to sacrifice, including himself, to save America. It was great.

When it was over I began to wonder, where was this president during the past three years? Where was he when Obamacare was shoved down America's throat? A Democratic Congress pulled every trick in the book to pass that law even though most Americans were clearly opposed to the idea. And Mr. Obama signed it into law. So where was the compromise then? Where was the “working together” attitude then? It didn’t exist.

So there it is again. Mr. Obama is all of the sudden in the mood to work together for the good of America. Why? Because it is convenient for him. I’ve accused Mr. Obama before of being "A Convenient President." It is how he needs to appear before the people right now. He needs some positive press and will do what is necessary to get it. However, when the need passes, he’ll return to business as usual and will do things that meet Mr. Obama’s agenda, not the people of the United States.

This may seem to be pretty down on the president, but I can’t help it. Time and time again he has said things that appeal to Americans in general, but then turned around and does something different. I guess I should clarify. He may not “do” things himself, he actually allowed the formerly democratic dominated Congress or now the Senate to do all the dirty work… without a word from him.

Now I know I’m just a basicguy, but I have a warning. If Mr. Obama is pawning for a compromise, there’s something in it for him. It’s convenient to compromise right now because he’s lost the democratic controlled Congress and his political ideology is losing ground in America. So, he needs something, and I suggest that we not give it to him.

One Debt or Another

2011-05-17T17:05:00.003-06:00

Can you believe the dangerous predicament we’re in? Just today, while searching the Internet, I found out that the US has once again reached its debt limit at over 14 trillion dollars. And the most worrisome part is that there is no agreed upon plan to do anything about it… especially from the Whitehouse. Why don’t they see the danger that basic folk see and get busy fixing the problem?

Another news story was another sign of dangerous times ahead. 2010 marked the first time that more was spent from Social Security than was taken in. I had hoped that my many years of contributing to this fund would still be available when I retired, but I seriously doubt it now. I suppose a lot could happen over the next 9 years, but having watched the Obama economy, it isn’t likely.

So, how did we get here? Well, we have a government with no fiscal restraint. I see it as one of the problems that come with a generation of career politicians. They spend as if the American economy will eventually overcome all shortfalls. It may be true when the economy is robust. Which brings us to another obvious problem; the economy is not robust these days and doesn’t show any promise that it will become such either. The political climate that a vote for change has brought has ensured that.

I have heard talk of two other problems that contribute to these dangerous conditions. One is the Baby Boomers. With a very large and growing aged population (many drawing upon Social Security and other government sponsored programs) the pressure on government entitlements threatens to overwhelm our resources.

Why? Well, one reason is our shrinking work force. The American workforce isn’t shrinking just because of high unemployment rates; there is more to it than that. It’s true, we find ourselves in challenging circumstances. Fewer people working equals fewer taxes which equals fewer dollars to cover our increasing debt and other government programs like Social Security.

But there is another reason for this workforce shortfall. Plain and simply we have fewer people entering the workforce. Families are smaller than they used to be. With each successive generation, family size is shrinking. We should have known that this day would come; when a very large bubble of boomers who have done their part for the American economy are now ready for their day in the sun.

But there is still one more reason that needs to be mentioned, and faced by this nation. Years of Roe v Wade has assisted in the genocide of millions of babies. What a waste. Not only do we miss the talents and skills that may have been born with the live birth of some of these sacrificed embryos, but we miss the shear number of individuals that could have been part of today’s workforce. I’m left to wonder how things might have been different had some Americans been different in how they viewed life. So, before you complain about the serious imbalance between the American workforce and the retiring Baby Boomers, first consider whether you are part of the problem or not.

Now, I personally believe that abortion is a plague. It is far more serious a problem than a simple imbalance in this country. Each child in embryo is a God-given gift. Each deserves a chance at life, to fulfill dreams, and to contribute in a positive way to this great nation. It is a national shame that we have allowed it to plague us for so long. Well, now we all have to pay for it… literally. Talk about a debt limit… this one dwarfs our $14 trillion.

How Wide the Divide?

2011-05-08T20:39:00.001-06:00

As I have watched the discussion in Utah regarding illegal immigration, I’m struck with the difficult situation that it has become… especially for members of the LDS Church. Being a member myself, I have been caught in the firestorm of deliberation over the LDS Church’s seeming confusing compassionate stand on illegal immigration.

One of the strongest arguments against the Church’s compassionate stand is found in it’s own core doctrine. The 12th Article of Faith declares that the Latter-day Saints believe in “obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.” There are some things surrounding illegal immigration that make a compassionate stand extremely difficult. Just the word “illegal” says a lot.

On the other side of the divide, there is another aspect of this situation that puts the Church in a difficult circumstance. What if the Lord is inspiring some of His children in Mexico and other places to risk coming to the US… even illegally? Many of them have found their way into the Church; especially families. The Prophet Joseph Smith once expressed something he had learned from his experience with God:

“Whatever God requires is right, no matter what it is, although we may not see the reason thereof till long after the events transpire” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 256).

I know it doesn’t fully explain the 12th Article of Faith, but it does create some sense of being measured in our response to the situation. So, with that said, as a basicguy I believe the following:

1. We need to first secure the border. It really is a security risk and we live in a very dangerous world.
2. We then need to formulate a fair and manageable immigration policy and process… one that makes sense, requires a commitment to English, encourages acceptance of the American tradition, and one we can afford.
3. Finally, we need to develop a measured but compassionate strategy for dealing with those already here. Some are more deserving than others; some are criminal and need to be deported immediately. However, there are those who truly seek a better opportunity. Is it possible that the US position of turning a blind eye towards our own immigration law has actually encouraged illegal immigration? If so, does that not beg for some compassion for those who are here illegally? In a way, we’re all guilty of illegalities. We risk speeding up to 5 mph over the speed limit because law enforcement allows it. Should we hold our neighbors to a higher standard than the one we ourselves are willing to abide by?

I think we can deal with this issue in a way that both sides will find fair and balanced. I’m just glad that someone smarter than I will be left to figure it out.

The US can learn from the UK on this one

2010-12-22T17:02:00.001-07:00

Well, it’s Christmas and, like you, I’m often looking for good ideas for gift giving… especially for kids. Gift giving gets pretty difficult as the years build up on you. When my wife asks, “What do you want for Christmas?” I really struggle as to what to say. I have no idea. I don’t need any particular thing and when you get to be my age what you really want is way too much money. So, what can you say? It’s just as challenging when trying to figure out what to give.

Well, I recently received a link to a story from a friend. The headline thrilled me because of the subject. I identified it right away as a great Christmas gift—a different kind of gift, but a gift just the same—especially for kids. The headline read: “Plan to block all online Porn.” It immediately caught my attention. One of the frustrations of the internet is the easy availability of porn. It has been a dangerous blight and has captured plenty of full grown men in its trap. So, when I saw the link I followed it.

Imagine my disappointment when I found the article (see http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/world/all-internet-porn-will-be-blocked-to-protect-children-under-uk-government-plan/story-e6frfkui-1225973481287), and realized it was in the UK, not the US. Well, of course not. What was I thinking? Why would the country or purveyor of 80% of all internet porn think to make the internet safer for our children? You see, we can’t compromise the astounding amount of money to be made.

I know the argument; it’s the parent’s responsibility to teach their kids about the dangers of porn and also to provide safety nets on their own home computers. Pornographers don’t bear any responsibility for the welfare of US kids, just their own welfare. Besides they have a 1st amendment right to muddy the morality of our youth and eventually our country.

Well, the last time I looked at the Constitution, there was more there than just the 1st amendment. I wonder what pornographers can do to help “form a more perfect Union,” or “insure domestic Tranquility”? Or what do they think it means to “promote the general Welfare” … “to ourselves and our Posterity”? Wouldn’t it be nice if the world of porn policed itself and willingly contributed to the safety of our children? Now that’s a real gift they could give. It may not be a gift that brings them more wealth, but it might help America maintain a moral people in whose hands the Constitution would be held inviolate. In that way we all benefit.

Since the Revolutionary War, there hasn’t been much America has jealously wanted from the UK. Well, maybe this is one thing to jealously desire. We also need to find a way to block internet porn to protect our kids. Let’s make the internet less dangerous for them. Though I don’t appreciate the porn world as some do, I don’t suggest blocking it from everyone. With all of the technology out there, I’m certain there is a way to conveniently make the internet safer for families without compromising access for those who want it. I have a feeling it could easily be resolved if the pornographers were willing to unselfishly give a gift. Come on, it’s Christmas, give a gift to America’s kids.

It's all about Spin

2010-11-20T11:21:00.002-07:00

I remember as a kid getting spun round and round by friends and then they’d step away and laugh as I dizzily stumbled this way and that and finally falling to the ground. Of course, I’d do it right back to someone else… all in the name of fun.

Well, I’m old enough now that I don’t have to worry about being spun around by friends anymore. However, a new spinning game is very prevalent. Instead of physically spinning your body around in circles, the new game attempts to spin our minds around in circles. And some are very affective. Spin is best achieved in the title, especially in a browsing culture. Too many will just read the lead title and skip the article and never come to appreciate the details. That’s how those who “spin” their agenda win.

As I have thought about it, I’ve seen some spin with such topics as education, entertainment, politics, religion, and culture. For example, just this week an article from the Associated Press quickly spread through the web. It was titled: “4 Out of 10 Americans Say Marriage is Obsolete!” Now that sounds pretty serious.

A friend of mine sent me a link to the story. I could tell it had concerned her. Being a basic “married” guy, that ominous sounding headline also concerned me… at first. But you see, once you become aware of the “spin cycle” which is so widespread in our society, you get a little suspicious of peoples motives. Everyone has an agenda and they try makes things appear in a way that promotes their worldview. The “spin” in this articles title suddenly looked like an agenda talking.

Note this title from an article in the Deseret News on November 18th: “Study reports Americans are optimistic about the family unit” (see http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700083108/Study-reports-Americans-are-optimistic-about-the-family-unit.html. What’s interesting about this article is that it is based on the same Pew Study as the Associated Press article, but clearly this writer had a different agenda.

So tell me, in your opinion, which one of these two approaches represents spin and which one represents reporting a news story? Is it spin to report that “6 Out of 10 Americans are Optimistic about Marriage” or that “4 Out of 10 Americans Say Marriage is Obsolete”? Some may argue that both are spin… one written by a writer who opposes traditional marriage and the other by a happily married person.

Well, as far as I’m concerned, I know which one is spin to me. Since when do we emphasize the smallest number in a report and give it the weight of the biggest number? Well, when it helps promote your agenda… that’s when. Now, I’m just a basicguy, but that just seems wrong. So, here’s some spin for you. I’m glad to be part of the biggest number… the side where 6 out of 10 who are optimistic about marriage. You see, it’s all about spin.

Murkowski's Last Grab

2010-10-01T10:59:00.000-06:00

Many years ago a friend and I were walking through a hallway of some dorm rooms and by chance saw an interesting poster on a wall. It pictured a squirrel hanging on for dear life to a tree branch and the caption read: “Hang in there, baby!” I’ve been reminded of this poster lately as I’ve watched entrenched politicians trying to find ways to cling to their “jobs” after being upset by Tea Party favorites.

One of the most recent was Lisa Murkowski, senator from Alaska who lost her primary bid to Joe Miller who was backed by Palin and Tea Party faithful. Murkowski, who was first appointed to office in 2002 by her Governor father, is just finishing her first full term to which she was elected by the people of Alaska. The unexpected loss obviously did not sit well with Murkowski because she has mounted a write-in campaign in hopes of regaining her seat. Talk about hanging on!

Why is it that some politicians can’t seem to accept the will of the people? Some try to find a way around the system by changing parties (i.e., Charlie Crist in Florida has jumped from the Republican Party to run as an Independent). Murkowski opted to give voters another chance to make up for their mistake or to come to their senses through a write-in vote. Why?

Well, in Murkowski’s case, she said she was doing it for the people of Alaska. So, what is she saying? Did the people of Alaska not make their choice in the primary? Did she not have an opportunity to make her case to “the people of Alaska”? What was so wrong about the process that will change with a write-in campaign? Are the people going to change their minds? Go figure.

I see another reason which Murkowski would never say openly. I think Murkowski is yet another example of the career politician. She sees it as a job. She was hired by the state of Alaska, given a great benefits package, and a very nice annual salary. The office where she works happens to be in Washington D.C. Being fired from this job doesn’t sit well with career politicians. Especially in her case; she hadn’t yet reached full-retirement that brings a lifetime income and benefits package. She needed to serve just one more term for that favored status to kick in. No wonder she’s clinging, clawing, and hanging for her life.

There was a day when politicians were statesmen (or women) who “served” the people rather than worked a job. When you are a servant, you go home when freed by your constituents. If for whatever reason your service is no longer required, “we the people” can send you packing. That’s all there is to it. To see an array of career politicians clamoring or clawing for their “jobs” is embarrassing. If you want a career, get a real job. If you want to serve “we the people,” then serve.

Glenn Beck? Oh What the Heck!

2010-09-04T10:20:00.001-06:00

It has been fun to read the varied responses to the recent Glenn Beck “Return to Honor” gathering in Washington D.C. The most fun has been the bantering by evangelicals. Most are not sure what to make of Glenn and especially the Mormon Church. The most interesting question has been: Is this a Beck conversion?

I suppose anything is possible… Beck did “convert” to Mormonism some years ago. But why does it have to be a conversion? Why can’t a Mormon be concerned about America? Why can‘t a Mormon know that the only way to maintain our freedoms and liberties is through being true to God? Why can’t a Mormon desire a return to God? Beck, as a Mormon, has recognized the dangerous times in which we live and is sincerely using whatever God has made available to him to do something about it.

Why are the evangelicals suspicious? One declared that America was founded on Protestant Christianity. He pointed out that only one Catholic signed the Declaration of Independence and that all the rest were from the protestant tradition. I’m sure historians would argue whether you could describe all of the Founders as strict traditional “Protestants,” but can agree that they believed in the “Christian” God. Mormon’s also believe in the “Christian” God… if you agree that Jesus Christ is God!

That brings me to the next suspicion. Evangelicals do not like Mormon theology of the Godhead. Both sides agree that the Godhead is made up of three entities: The Father, Son and Holy Ghost. However, there is substantial disagreement about what the Godhead looks like. Evangelicals believe in the traditional Godhead that grew out of the creeds of Christian fathers: Three entities, one God. Mormons believe in Three entities who are agreed in one, each fulfilling unique missions under the direction of God the Father. Does that mean we can’t stand on the same stage and invite all Americans to return to honor… return to God?

Another evangelical pointed out that Mormon’s believe that Christ’s Atonement did not take place on the cross, but in the garden of Gethsemane. That’s why Mormon’s don’t have crosses on their building or have them dangling around their necks. So, Mormon’s obviously do not believe as Paul: preach Christ and Him crucified. Well, this is unfortunate misinformation. Mormons do preach the crucifixion. Mormons believe that the Atonement began in Gethsemane, where the Savior did pour out great drops of blood as He suffered for the sins of mankind. But all Mormons also know that the Atonement continued through the crucifixion and culminated in the resurrection. You see, Paul also preached that “we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life” (Romans 5:10). Mormons preach that the only way we can overcome this fallen life is through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, but also know that we can ease life’s path by choosing to focus on the Savior’s life and living as He did as best we can.

With all that said, and despite the differences, it has been heartening to see that some evangelicals are setting aside theological differences and giving Beck the benefit of the doubt. Why not? The circumstances we find ourselves in these days cry for a unity of faith in a God… one that can help us return to honor. And on that point, I’m with Beck.

Dreams "On the Side"

2010-05-24T20:47:00.002-06:00

What a day to live in. Each day things seems to change right before your eyes. As a boy, growing up in the deserts of southern Nevada, I had my dreams. They fluctuated between playing in a rock band to being an international spy. But at some point, reality set in and I had to “do” something, not just dream it, in order to be a contributing member of society.

In time, I found myself as a teacher. I’ve taught for decades now, not just years. Was teaching ever a dream? No. But it has been a stable profession that has allowed me to marry and raise five children to adulthood. Have all my dreams been dashed upon the rocks of reality? I can honestly say, no.

I still have dreams… they’ve just morphed and changed over the years. I have been able to fulfill many of them “on the side” of real life. Some people experience some luck and fall into a situation where their “dream” and their “life’s work” are one in the same. For most of us, however, we mostly work out our dreams on the side. But that’s OK. Those who fulfill their dreams “on the side,” at least, are no burden on their neighbors.

That brings me to something that troubles me these days. There seem to be many who have no qualms about being a burden on their neighbors. In fact, they often declare that they are owed something. Life owes them, the government owes them, their parents owe them, something or everything. What ever happened to personal responsibility? Picking yourself up by your own boot-straps? Why does it seem like there are woefully fewer individuals who believe in the value of being self-reliant? And then I get really troubled when those who should no better promote such attitudes.

I was shocked recently when word hit the news about some comments Nancy Pelosi gave at a Washington event. She was defending the merits of the unmerited Obama Health-Care Bill. Note this insightful quote from her speech:

“We see it as an entrepreneurial bill, a bill that says to someone, if you want to be creative and be a musician or whatever, you can leave your work, focus on your talent, your skill, your passion, your aspirations because you will have health care. You don't have to be job-locked.”

Gosh, the government will save us. Where were they when I was dreaming about being in a rock band or employing skills as an international spy? I sure missed out didn’t I? Instead, I’m one of those guys who will foot the bill for those who can now escape being “job-locked” and feel free to forever explore their dreams. Why? Because they will no longer need a job to have health care.

Well, as far as I’m concerned, I feel much more useful and valuable to society as an active contributor… one who is self-sustaining and responsible… and still get to enjoy dreams “on the side.” To my own kids, and to the rising generation, I say, try it, you may like it… and yourself.

Hear the Boot Drop?

2010-05-10T20:29:00.001-06:00

Well Utah has sent a message to all RINOs that exist in the political zoo in Washington D.C. It came in the form of the rejection of Bob Bennett, a 3-term incumbent Republican, in the second of three rounds of voting. Setting aside the frantic picture being painted by the MSM (main stream media ) that a gang of radical tea party-ers were to blame, you can bet that RINOs throughout the US heard the boot drop echo from Utah.

So, what is the reaction of the esteemed Utah Senate delegation? Bennett suggested that he was done in by the toxic political environment and a couple of votes. Then he said the words that really grind on me. He said that it was these things “that ended my career.” Well, there you have it. Any sympathy I might have had for the guy is drowned out by that “career” word. For I man who promised Utahans that he would only serve two terms, the word “career” shows his true heart. Too many politicians see their position of trust as a career as opposed to a time of service for their country.

The other esteemed Senator from Utah has a similar problem. When he ran against Frank Moss what seems like centuries ago, he fought off Moss’s argument that his position of power and influence nurtured over decades of work make him a shoe in for Utahans. Hatch downplayed the importance of such position, power, and influence. Utah agreed and voted him into office. How the shoe is on the other foot. Guess who’s using the “power and influence and position” argument? Can you hear echoes of Frank Moss? Like Mr. Moss and Mr. Bennett, Hatch has become a career politician.

Asked what he thought of Bennett’s defeat and the possibility that he will run into the same opposition, Hatch responded with, “I’m ready for a fight.” A fight? Now that’s a very interesting response. I’d ask him: “Well, just who do you think you’re going to be fighting with, Mr. Hatch?” There’s only one answer—his own constituency. If he thinks he can win that fight, then he deserves a royal whipping.

It’s time to remove career politicians across the country. Service in Washington is NOT a career or a right of passage or anything else. It’s an opportunity to serve your country and to maintain for the people their rights and freedoms.

We need more boots to drop.

“It’s not Time to Retreat, but to Reload”

2010-03-27T16:59:00.002-06:00

So, what were you doing this morning? Sleeping in? Jogging? Eating a big breakfast? Tilling your garden space for Spring planting? Well, when I started out this morning at my wife’s encouragement, I could think of several other places to be going. Staying with the in-laws in Henderson, NV, we stepped out of their home, hopped into the XTerra, and headed to Searchlight.

What in the heck were we doing going to Searchlight? Well, it wasn’t to shake hands with each of the 773 people who live there. On this particular weekend, there was an organized event. In fact, it was a Tea Party, purposely scheduled in Harry Reid’s hometown. Why? It was a “Dump Harry Reid” party, and Sarah Palin showed up to give it some creds.

About 4 miles outside of Searchlight we ran into stop and go traffic. It was a little surprising since they were only expecting about 4,000 people to show up. We slowly made our way another 2 ½ miles and noticed people pulling of I-95 and parking. We hurried and did the same.

There we were, walking with whites, blacks, Latinos and Hispanics. They were of all ages, from kids to grandpas… all of them happy to be together and shooting pictures of posters and signs. It was also an interesting mix of people from all walks of life. You had your bikers with long hair and earrings to grandmas with umbrellas. One guy had his leg in a brace and a cane… slowly making his way to the event. These folks were quite a contrast to the Reid supporters who drove by yelling obscenities from car windows or who threw eggs at the Tea Party Express bus. In fact, I’m sure the Nevada Highway Patrol had to be surprised by the pleasant thank you’s extended to them as they crossed the street.

When we finally finished our 1 ½ walk, we were surprised to find a crowd of people in a dusty desert bowl surrounding a makeshift stage. High above the stage was a large speaker hanging from a cranes extension. We heard a variety of different speakers whipping the crowd into a frenzy. There were a number of motor homes parked around the bowl marking the perimeter. We made our way to a rise on the opposite side of the bowl and sat on a rocky mound.

My wife asked if these people were in Cougar stadium how many people would I say were there. It was a good way to look at the crowd. My best guess was that there were 30,000 to 40,000 people crowded in that dusty bowl. Flags colored the crowd: an American flag here; a “Don’t Tread on Me” flag there. A variety of signs and tee shirts carefully moved through the mass of people. One young woman featured a sign that said: “I’m in your DEBT, Obama.” High in the skies above, five planes painted word art messages. “God bless the US.” “Tea Party-ers Vote Reid Out.” And then Sarah Palin took the stage….

She is a crowd favorite. A helicopter from a local station hovered above us; they must have been informed about the time Palin was to speak. It was so noisy it competed with Palin’s talk. The cold wind didn’t help either. It didn’t matter to the crowd, they were glad to be there and to heartily thank Palin for some one-liners that they did catch. What was one of her most popular one-liners? “It’s not time to retreat… but to reload.”

Well, that is the point, isn’t it. The Democrats cram through legislation that Americans didn’t want. They did so in ways that sicken most red-blooded Americans. They’ve abused some principles of representative government. Finally, Mr. Obama signed it into law. With so much going against us… including our own elected representatives… the tendency would be to throw in the towel. “Why try… no one’s listening anyway?”

Well, from what I saw today, no one is throwing in the towel. In fact, they’re writing “Don’t Tread on Me” on their towels and waving them for the world to see. Palin’s got it right… one battle may be over, but the war goes on. Don’t retreat, just reload. Well, this is one Basicguy who will do just that. I’m not finished… I’m thinking we replace those who refuse to represent the people in both 2010 and 2012. We literally reload Congress and the White House and then repeal bad law. In time the bad taste in my mouth will be gone and I’ll once again be enjoying the sweet flavor of liberty and hope.

Well, our first Tea Party experience is now over. How heartening it is to know that good and basic people are rallying to this cause. Little Searchlight, Nevada, drew people from Texas, Oregon, California, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Pennsylvania and, of course, Nevada. This is a nationwide movement. It is a grassroots movement. It is a movement for limited government, free enterprise, and sanity in the political arena. Basic people mad about Mr. Obama’s change, like a sleeping giant, are awake and rising up to wrench America back from the hands of those who hate it and intend to reinvent it in their own sorry image.
Well, America is speaking out… since too few are speaking for them in Washington. Reload America… lock and load… load with the right ammunition—the principles of freedom found in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Now, I’m just a Basicguy, but if America rode into existence on the shoulders of such weighty principles, we can ride them again to reclaim our nation.

Denying the Undeniable

2010-02-17T16:55:00.001-07:00

Did you catch the new out of Washington D.C. today? The Obama administration had an anniversary of sorts. Under the circumstances, I’m not sure I would have even brought it up. But they did. It was a year ago today that Mr. Obama signed the nearly a billion dollar Stimulus Bill. Fox News reported it this way:

“The White House stood its ground Wednesday on the impact of the economic stimulus package, arguing that the bill signed a year ago has given an ‘undeniable’ boost to the economy and that Republican critics are just playing politics.

“On the one-year anniversary of the bill's signing, President Obama said the $787 billion package saved 2 million jobs and helped prevent a ‘second depression.’ White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said that while many Americans have soured to the program, the bill is working and taxpayers will ‘absolutely’ have a different outlook once it has had its full effect.”

Golly, I’m sure glad we dodged that “second depression”! Of course, on earlier similar claims Mr. Obama and his staff have made, no one had any idea where they got their numbers. We’ll probably hear similar reports about these claims too. But not to worry, Roberts Gibbs assures us that it’s all “undeniable.”

Hmmm. That sounds familiar. Wasn’t that word once used to describe the science behind global warming and climate change… even by this administration? Makes one wonder doesn’t it.

Aw, what the heck. I’m going out on a limb. I’m denying the undeniable in this case. Getting to be quite a habit too.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2010-02-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

Do you feel like a sing along with Andy Williams? I do. And there’s one song in particular that I’d love to belt out about now. Let it Snow. Why? Because if Washington DC is socked in with record snow levels, maybe Congress can’t do any more damage to the country. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Tea Anyone?

2010-02-06T10:40:00.003-07:00

Now, I’m not a tea drinker… never have been. Actually, some forms of it is against my religion. However, there is one particular tea I’m very partial to. It both tastes good and feels right. It’s something that anyone can taste or feel at your local tea party. What am I talking about?

Well, there have been “tea parties” sweeping the nation for at least a year now and they keep coming. The name was borrowed from our early revolutionists who opposed British taxation on local tea and ended with a major tea party in Boston harbor. The movement today is a national stand of regular people against big government and irresponsible spending. In essence it’s a citizen’s revolt against the policies of intrusion by the Obama White house and the wasteful and out of control spending of Congress. And to me, it’s the only tea that both tastes and feels good going down.

I’ve watched it with a great deal of interest and feel swells of patriotism for my country. A glimmer of hope fills me knowing that I’m no longer alone in a world that once appeared to be slipping into political and economic insanity. But of course, if we’re not careful, all of this hope can be dashed upon rocks of reality. I see worries on the horizon.

Tea Partiers beware! Political forces see you as a prime source to exploit, are at your doors. Don’t get sucked into their web. Many are conspiring for their own gain. The GOP would love to “catch” your wave and claim you as its own. Now, I’m a republican, a say this carefully. I may be a Republican, but I’m a conservative first. Republicans like Democrats use movements to gain power. Republicans “used” conservatism for this purpose and once in control ended up wielding their new-found power to simply maintain job security on the people’s dime. Conservatives felt betrayed when those entrusted with the reins of power defaulted to party politics. The same thing will happen to the Tea Party movement if you are not careful.

Another warning I can see is the temptation to establish a third party. Political parties tend to exist less for movements, and more for those who seize control of them. Power invested in the few has a debilitating affect on mere mortals. They tend to think its all about them instead of an opportunity to use talents for the greater good… servants of the people. With this in mind, I was glad to see Mark Skoda (a Tea Party organizer in Memphis, TN) says:

“This movement is beginning to mature… not as a third party but a force to be reckoned with in the traditional party structure.”

Now that makes the most sense to a basicguy like me. The Tea Party needs to remain as a movement. There may a star around which the movement takes voice such as a Sarah Palin or a Mit Romney. But as soon as any one person sees it as a chance to seize some power and wealth, and Tea Partiers allow it to happen, then the movement dies. So, let’s keep our fingers crossed… no, let’s stay ever vigilant and not allow for any one person or entity to rest it from the hands of the people.

Finally, a tea the tastes and feels good going down… and that isn’t against my religion. Tea anyone?

The State of the Union or Mr. Obama?

2010-01-27T15:03:00.001-07:00

Well, it’s Mr. Obama’s moment to shine. He seems to crave moments that allow him to be in control and to look his best. All of that is usually accomplished through the membrane of a tele-prompter.

Pundits words fill the blogoshpere with predictions of those things that Mr. Obama will focus on and why. Some of the predictions are sure to be more informed than others. One blogger, Andrew Golis (editor of Yahoo!’s News blogs), listed five questions he thought needed answered by Mr. Obama considering the state of things in the Union since the Massachusetts’s Shocker.

1. Can he reclaim the role of "changer in chief"?
2. Will there be another "You lie!" moment?
3. What will he say about health care?
4. Does he have a sound bite that sticks?
5. Can he offer a hopeful economic vision?

That’s nice. But I thought there was only one question that needed to be answered. How many things will Mr. Obama either lie about or spin to put him in the best light and ease the concerns of a growing discontented populace?

I know, I seem to be a serious skeptic here. Well, what do you expect? Try this experiment. On a sheet of paper, list as many things as you can that shows how Mr. Obama actually did what he said he would do. Here’s mine:

• Ahhh
• Hmmm

OK, so I can’t think of any. Your turn.

Anyway, if you choose to tune in tonight and catch the President’s State of the Union address, it might be just as important to try and determine what the State of Mr. Obama is. In my opinion this president has difficulty being genuine. He tends to say things for looks. He also tends to say things to spin a message. If he can say the right things and gain even a tiny degree of trust among his fellow Americans, he can then go on and do what he really wants while America looks the other way.

The times in this country are just too dangerous to be caught looking the other way. Watch this guy like a hawk and take nothing for granted. Only in this way can we hope to keep the state of this Union in the safe harbor of the Constitution of the United States.

A New Dawn for America?

2010-01-23T13:03:00.003-07:00

The morning the New Year dawned I woke up feeling positive about the future. That hadn’t happened in some time. For much of the previous two years a depressing pall hung over my life. I noticed that a similar pall hung over the country. But 2010 opened with a glimmer of hope… a lighter feeling… a bit of excitement. I related these feelings to some friends and when they asked why I thought I felt differently, I really couldn’t explain it.

Who would have known that any news out of Massachusetts would have provided a glimpse into my glimmer of hope… a tentative glimmer to be sure… but there is no doubting the hopeful feeling inside. Scott Brown… Chevy truck… healthcare reform is dead… Democrats getting frantic… Kennedy’s seat… wake-up call… Is it Martha or Marcia Coakley? Each of these words and phrases fueled the hope within until I heard the news… Brown Wins! Then in his acceptance, Brown declared: “This isn’t Kennedy’s seat, or my seat, but your seat!”

That is like music to my ears. I detest the growing political aristocracy in America. Political offices are a right of passage to some. To others the seat is bought off. And still to others, once they get the office, it becomes their job… their profession. Brown has the right idea… the seat belongs to the people and those that the people put in the seat serves them. Where has this idea gone?

Well, I’m happy for Scott Brown and the Republican Party. I’m happy that there is a chance to turn the tide of big fat government controlling every aspect of our country. There is a chance that the free enterprise system can be saved from government take-over. Maybe some sanity will set in and we’ll learn to live within our means, strengthen the dollar, and re-establish the hope of America.

However, I have a warning for Scott Brown and other Republicans like him. First, don’t get caught up in the thought that the Massachusetts shocker is a repudiation of the Democratic Party and a mandate for the Republicans. It has little to do with party, but everything to do with ideals… conservative ideals.

I’m a registered Republican, but I’m a conservative American first. I believe in a lean central government that fulfills the mandate written in the Constitution. I think the Founding Father’s stand head and shoulders above their peers and see hardly anyone today who can even be considered their peer. I believe in America’s Christian heritage that opens the door to other religions and non-religions to exist in a free society. I believe in our imperfect but free enterprise system that fuels the greatest nation on earth. When these things are tempered in the hands of a moral people… a people who accept personal responsibility… then truly there is such a thing as an American dream.

So, is it a New Dawn for traditional American ideals? I truly hope so. As for now, my hope index is up… may yours be too.

Who's Really in the Main Stream?

2010-01-18T11:07:00.003-07:00

We’ve heard a lot over the past several months about the shortcomings of the MSM (Main Stream Media). They seem oblivious to the pulse of their audience. A recent poll shows that an increasing majority of MSA (Main Stream America) believes the country is woefully going in the wrong direction (see http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/59934). And yet the MSM has chosen not to pick up the story and report it.

Now, I could talk about the definition of “Main Stream” and wonder who is really in it: the media or the American people. But that really isn’t the story to me. What’s really interesting is how the MSM has failed to capture the minds of the MSA… this time. They have functioned now for months as Mr. Obama’s spin machine… trying to manipulate what the MSA hears and believes. But despite the MSM’s one-sided and heavy-handed progressive political agenda, the MSA still believes that Mr. Obama’s country is seriously going in the wrong direction.

That’s really good news to me… a basicguy in the main stream of America. I’ve had to search far and wide for media that represents what most American’s believe in and bring some sanity back into the argument in this great land. As the MSA continues to search as I have and abandons the MSM, maybe they’ll come to their senses… it’s not likely… but one can hope.

Later the same day:

Well, well, what do you know? As I watched ABC’s World News, what did Diane Sawyer report on? The very poll I mentioned above. Now that was unexpected. Is this a course change… or a crumb to keep MSA interested? As always, time will tell.

The Audacity of Dopes

2009-12-26T11:09:00.001-07:00

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?

A Season of Firsts

2009-11-21T18:37:00.005-07:00

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.

He's Taking Us for a Ride

2009-10-11T19:35:00.003-06:00

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.

Broken Capitalism is Superior to Socialism

2009-09-14T22:15:00.004-06:00

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:

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.

President or Community Organizer?

2009-09-04T21:26:00.003-06:00

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.

"Things are not Always what they Seem"

2009-08-20T09:14:00.006-06:00

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.

"Surrendering the Field"

2009-08-12T08:56:00.004-06:00

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.

Public Good or Private Gain

2009-07-19T21:09:00.003-06:00

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.

Political Aristocracy

2009-07-04T11:20:00.004-06:00

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:

"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.

"Something Significant"

2009-04-18T20:38:00.007-06:00

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.

Dreams Dashed on Rocks of Reality

2009-04-13T15:25:00.003-06:00

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.

Kicking the Dog

2009-03-06T20:38:00.005-07:00

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.

This Goose is Cooked!

2009-02-27T08:43:00.003-07:00

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:

"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.

The Last Train to Pottersville

2009-02-16T16:42:00.005-07:00

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!

Conspiracy Anyone?

2009-02-16T16:13:00.004-07:00

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:

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.

Un-American or Un-God?

2009-02-01T22:01:00.005-07:00

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.

Happy Birthday Macintosh!

2009-01-24T10:13:00.006-07:00

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.”

"There's No Place Like This Home"

2009-01-22T20:27:00.005-07:00

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."

America's Hope or Last Breath

2009-01-07T12:05:00.005-07:00

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.

One Bad Apple

2009-01-03T21:43:00.003-07:00

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.

All in the Family

2008-12-27T09:13:00.002-07:00

Have you ever just wanted to be "one of the boys" or part of the crowd? Now, some crowds aren't worth being part of, but most of us have a need to belong, to be part of a group.We just want to fit in and be accepted for who we are. I guess it gives some feeling of worth. Yes, it would be nice if we were self-confident enough to not have such needs, but it seems that our lives have that much more meaning when we can share life with others... giving to... and taking from... others. (I wonder if this is one reason why a family is such a necessary part of society?)

Well, that appears to have been the case last night for one member of our family.

My wife and oldest daughter... well, my only daughter... were watching a Christmas movie last night. Well, it was a movie that had been given as a Christmas gift, that is. Anyway, as is their custom, they were all wrapped up in their blankets, very engaged in the film. Sadie, the family beagle, left her perch on a new Christmas pillow and tried to sneak under one of the blankets with the other women in the family. Apparently there wasn't room for her.

However, not to be dissuaded, Sadie ran into the office. You see, in the office we keep a nice blanket where she sleeps on cold winter nights. Smart dog. Sadie nudged her way under the blanket and then returned to the family room... blanket in tow, hooked on the brow of her head. Yes, Sadie got herself all wrapped up in her blanket, just like all the other ladies of the house. I suppose Sadie just wanted to be part of the family.

Now, I may have not even noticed this event if I hadn't recently seen "Marley and Me," a movie about a couple, a dog, and a growing family. Marley (a very rambunctious yellow lab) became as much a part of the family as anyone else. The Grogan family would not have been the same if it hadn't been for Marley. You could say the same for us.

As a New Year dawns upon us, and the troubles of life grow beyond measure, it will be tough to tread life's path alone. We're all going to need to belong to something or with someone. Maybe that something or someone can be a family. In most cases, it's hard to replace a family. So, like Sadie, get yourself a blanket, get all wrapped up in it, and join the others in the family room!

"Bleeding Heart Tightwad" or Cheerful Giver?

2008-12-24T08:26:00.005-07:00

Well, it's finally here... Christmas is tomorrow. It's interesting how the season slowly builds up for weeks and then sadly abruptly ends. I love the season... always have... but it's turning more and more into a deja vu experience each year. Like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day! Fortunately there is a way to keep Christmas all year long. That is to follow the "giving" way of the Savior of the world... the One born in a lowly stable in Bethlehem... the One whose birth we celebrate every December 25th.

In an interesting article by Nicholas D. Kristof, a self-professed liberal, it appears that the most giving political idealists are conservatives (see "Bleeding Heart Tightwads," NY Times). Ole Nick was very surprised and disappointed to find that those who share his political idealism lag far behind in charitable giving. Well, I know I'm just a basicguy, but I don't share Nick's surprise.

Liberals that I know tend to be more secular and less religious. God is less important than the "village" and church is less important than the state. In this environment, you pay your taxes to the government and they then take care of the people in the village, both here and abroad. It's pretty convenient... you never have to actually confront people in need or see them or talk to them... the government just takes care of it.

On the other hand, conservatives tend to be active Christians (think Religious Right) and as such feel the need to learn of, and live like, the icon of Christianity... Jesus Christ. The scriptures record that Jesus "went about doing good" (Acts 10:38) and most often this good was of a very personal sort... one on one... person to person.

Each of us can "keep" this Christmas... make it last a little longer and keep it from abruptly ending... by following the "giving" way of the Christ. Spend some quiet time in the scriptures and learn how to be a more personal giver. It helps while reading to ask the question posed by Saul, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" (NKJV Acts 9:6.) I've found that keeping Christmas in this way, tends to make me a cheerful giver instead of a "bleeding heart tightwad." This year of all years, when so many are in trouble and hurting, let's make it so.

Merry Christmas!

The Only Bail Out I Like

2008-12-22T21:21:00.003-07:00

Is anyone else out there getting just a little fed up with the increasing bail out talk? How many bail outs can the US taxpayer cover? I guess the answer to that is how many future generations of Americans you include in your calculation. From Wall Street to Main Street and all those in between (even states are asking for a bail out!), the numbers are staggering. Of course, to a basicguy like me, I was more than staggered at the initial $700 billion.

Like many normal people out there, I opposed all of the bail outs. Practices like financial planning, an organized budget, and living within your means are apparently too old school for the financial wiz kids that supposedly know much more than me. I hoped that congress and the offending financial institutions would come to their senses and begin to show some restraint. But I guess that was a bit too much to ask.

Why? Because we have a president-elect (you know, the one whose going to change the world for the better?) who is planning yet another bail out. You heard me, another bail out. And this one offends me more than them all. Obama's transition team is calling for "dramatic policy reversals on abortion, including $1 billion in taxpayer money for international abortion groups like Planned Parenthood. The report, titled 'Advancing Reproductive Rights and Health in a New Administration,' also calls for a 133-percent increase in funding for the Title X program, which funds Planned Parenthood clinics across the country."

So much for change, huh? Not only am I opposed to bail outs in general, but I am also opposed to abortion, particularly those performed for casual reasons. How can we even consider bailing out an industry that encourages the demise of 1.4 million people. That's right, I said people. Most aborted babies would grow up to be living breathing, productive Americans... future generations that could help us grow our population and income potential as a nation. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot.

It seems to me that maybe I am in favor of bail outs after all. If America was a plane, it might be helpful if some of our worst offending members of society bailed out without a chute! Maybe then, saner minds would prevail and our country could be set back onto a more financial secure path. However, I am only a basicguy.

Black Friday was Actually a Bright Spot

2008-12-11T11:34:00.003-07:00

Well we survived it. Black Friday is now a distant memory. It was shockingly colored by two seriously disturbing events, but people still shopped in large numbers. There were enough "numbers" that a Wal-Mart employee was trampled to death. There was also a gun battle at a Toys-R-Us. So it's hard to challenge that people weren't passionate this year about the season. Fortunately, most places were just normally busy with frantic, but law abiding shoppers.

However, with all of the good news that shopping was a little better than last year, there was also the bad news. You see, there was one significant change from previous years. Reporters were hard-pressed to explain the phenomenon, but eagerly reported this serious threat to our economy. It turns out that people were indeed shopping at a very brisk pace, but they were only shopping for others... they weren't buying for themselves!

Oh, my gosh. The world is coming to an end. I can't believe that it has come to this. People are setting aside personal needs to think of others during this Christmas season? Well, it was fun while it lasted.

I know, it's over the top tongue-in-cheek stuff there... I couldn't help myself. I don't know about you, but for me, it's sort of natural to think of others at Christmas time. It's the season to be jolly and to live in a way that reminds us of Jesus Christ... whose birth we actually celebrate at this time of year. We should be shedding the "what's in it for me" attitude and doing our best to put someone else first... and for many people, to put someone else first for a change. For example, Blagojevich, the now disenfranchised Governor of Illinois, apparently didn't know what time of year it was as he tried to enrich himself by selling an appointment for senator. Unreal.

Well, enough said. The times are what they are. Money is tight. The economy struggles from day to day. Jobs are more scarce. Companies are closing their doors. It is what it is. Still, I actually find it refreshing that people, even in these tough times, are thinking of others instead of themselves while Christmas shopping. As one born in a lowly manger, Jesus Christ, in His poverty, gave all that He had to others. It somehow seems fitting that American's are shopping... and not for themselves.

Good Luck, Mr. Brit

2008-11-29T21:55:00.003-07:00

So, I'm watching the news tonight for a few minutes (I get most of my news on the Internet), and the anchor dangles a carrot. A story is coming about a guy who says he will live for a year without spending a dime. I was interested enough to check back often until the story was reported. It finally came.

It was about a man living in England, a Brit, who had some degree in economics. He was fed up enough with the financial crisis that he was going to show his displeasure with the way things are by checking out of the system for 12 months. You heard me... 12 months.

How would he do it? He would trade his talents and skills for food and other needed items. Instead of a vehicle he'd ride a bike with a small trailer attached to carry possessions. Pretty interesting, though nothing terribly new. This idea has been tried before. Check out of man-made society and into the perfectly created earth. I do wish him well. As a basicguy, a simpler life is very appealing.

However, his last comment was the one that really caught my attention. When asked about capitalism, his profound reply was, "Capitalism is flawed." Wow. Now that is something I'd never considered. Really? Flawed, huh? Well, duh. Of course its flawed! Every man-made financial system is flawed. Name any financial system that has ever existed, and flaws can be revealed. Why is that? It's simple. Financial systems are flawed because people are flawed.

So, Mr. Brit, I do wish you well in your personal rebellion against the way things are in our financial world. With all of its weaknesses, capitalism has the power and energy to resolve massive financial challenges. There has never been anything quite so effective in eradicating poverty and building extensive civilized infrastructures. But sadly it engenders greed and other debilitating characteristics. Yet, even though I'm just a basicguy, Mr. Brit, I can see the day when you get burned by some person who doesn't quite live up to an agreement you made for your services. I hope it doesn't come to that... but all man-made financial systems are flawed... because people are flawed. Good luck, Mr. Brit.

Maintining a Lifestyle or Getting a Life

2008-11-26T16:41:00.003-07:00

It's interesting to hear all the reports about how Americans aren't flying or buying or traveling like they used to. Reporters are fretting about it. So are business owners. So is Wall Street. Why all the head-scratching?

The government bailout may allow Wall Street executives, Corporate officers, and Bankers to maintain their unrealistic and expensive lifestyles, but no one else. Most normal Americans no what it means to live within their means. They know when there are financial challenges, it is more important to get a life than to maintain a lifestyle. They may not be able to afford a certain lifestyle, but they can afford a life. And the miracle? No one else has to bail them out so they can maintain some selfish lifestyle.

It's too bad our federal government hasn't chosen to learn from "we the people"... you know, the normal Joes and Plain Janes. I guess it's been way too long since our elected leaders had a real life instead of their false Washington lifestyle. Besides, there is nothing wrong with driving over to Grandma's house instead of the Cayman Islands for a change. I know I'm just a basic guy, but it seems to me that there is far more life in "getting a life" than in maintaining some false "lifestyle."

America's New Day May Be Too New

2008-11-15T21:48:00.003-07:00

Well, a lot has happened since I last posted any thoughts. America has chosen an historic direction by voting into office Barrack Obama. He will become the first African-American to so serve. This truly is a new day for America. I just hope that this "new day" isn't too new.

Obama and his cadre of leaders are claiming a mandate from the American people for significant change. Why is it that whenever people win presidential elections they claim some mandate? Now, it is true, some have won by a landslide. In that case, a mandate can be claimed. But most win by a few percentage points. So, can one claim a mandate from just half the people? Not me.

One percentage caught my eye and told me a lot about what happened. In general, the percentage of Republicans and Democrats who vote in a presidential election is pretty even--37 to 38%. However, in this election there was an obvious difference. Democrats maintained their average, while the Republicans dropped by an amazing 7% to 8% points. Now this fact may not have changed result of this years election. But it is telling. It helps reveal that McCain never did garner the needed support of his party.

Change was inevitable for two reasons. First, how do you stand in the way of history? We have witnessed history in the making. In some ways, it's a remarkable time to live for we have come so far as a country. It's a journey we needed to make. Whether now or with this man, is the right time and person, I'm not convinced. Time will tell. Second, Republicans shot themselves in the foot. They betrayed their base support through their own pride and corruption. Who knows how long it will take to repair the damage and rebuild the trust.

In the meantime, with a Republican party as damaged goods, who will be in a position to act as a check and balance to a Democratic Party claiming a mandate? Government size and spending has already ballooned under Republicans, so what will happen as spend-happy Democrats seize even more control? I shudder to think.

Who knows, maybe Obama will come to his senses as he is absorbed in his "new day." I know, dream on, Basicguy.

McCain Shows his Age... Needs Hearing Aides

2008-10-04T12:01:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you, but I've been doing a lot of head scratching lately. Being a conservative, and watching the recent financial fiasco, I'm left to wonder: just who is John McCain listening to? Now, I've noticed that older folk get a little hard of hearing. I watched it happen to my Dad and even now, at my relatively young age, I'm noticing the beginnings of it. But is everyone on McCain's staff the same age?

Watching President Bush, his administration, and the mainstream media (MSM) over the past week or so, I've concluded that they were all on the same page. There is only one solution for our failing economy and wall street woes: a bailout at tax payers expense. Oddly enough there was no discussion of a Plan A or B, let alone a Plan C. There's just one possible answer for this predicament: do the $700 billion dollar bailout or life as we know it ends. For some reason McCain heard that option, he supported it.

However, reading a conservative magazine and a couple of conservative blogs, and listening occasionally to conservative talk radio, it became apparent that there were plenty of other options to the proposed bailout. One option was to drop the capital gains tax for two years and flood the market with an enormous amount of cash. The experts did say that the market needed and infusion of cash, so that probably would have worked... without using tax payers money.

Why didn't this idea gain any traction? Well, the MSM didn't report it on TV or print it in newspapers. I'm assuming they didn't report it because of the continual feud between the MSM and conservative thinkers. So, an idea that might have solved our financial crisis without forcing the nation to take a socialistic step, is sadly lost to us.

Now, here's the most disappointing thing to me. John McCain courted conservatives saying he had our back. He hinted at this position by selecting Sarah Palin, which did satisfy a lot of us conservatives who really had no one to rally around until then. All that is fine and dandy, but with recent actions by the McCain camp leaves conservatives wondering: just who is John McCain listening to? Well, it's pretty obvious that he's not listening to conservatives. He simply supported the bailout plan discussed by the MSM. He supported President Bush's administration, even though most American's opposed it.

So what do we learn from all of this? McCain is an avowed moderate. He doesn't, and never has, seriously considered conservative thinking. His solutions are the same as those conjured up by big government intelligensia. It's sad really. He was given a gift... a real opportunity to offer something new and different... to take a stand as a "straight talker"... show a dynamically creative way to solve our financial crisis... and to set him apart from Obama's camp and Washington. But instead he obviously listened to the MSM and ended up exposing his age. McCain is hard of hearing, especially when it comes to listening to solutions offered by conservative thinkers.

Being a Basicguy and all, I'm probably not smart enough to comprehend McCain's greater plan. But I do know this, if McCain continues to be hard of hearing of conservative thought, conservatives will be hard of hearing of his... regardless of how many times he throws Governor Palin out there to satisfy them. It's not working. Unfortunately, McCain's aging hearing problem will guarantee a loss of more than hearing in November and carve a path for a disastrous Obama presidency.

McCain, where are your hearing aides?

An Endangered Species

2008-08-30T21:54:00.004-06:00

John McCain has an excellent staff. Despite the odds, they cleverly maneuvered through Democratic Olympics and Obama's coronation with deftness and expertise. I'm impressed. And then to steal the thunder of the Mr. Obama's magical night by introducing Sarah Palin of Alaska as the Republican nominee for Vice President of the United States of America. Whether you like it or not, its tough to refute the brilliance of the move. As McCain kindly tendered to Obama on his special night, I say to McCain: well done.

I was feeling pretty good about things. It was that "gotcha" experience you always like to have. You know, the way you felt when you finally realized what was going on in The Sixth Sense? So it was very satisfying when McCain pulled Palin out of his hat. But pouring over the blogs on the heals of the announcement, I came across the naysayers. Many were belligerent and attacked with passion. Even another "mother" (like Palin), insisted that Palin was the wrong choice because she lacked experience and could never lead this country when (not if) McCain became incapacitated. I wonder if Pelosi had other reasons for this attack. Did she feel slighted by Obama? I personally think she likes being the most powerful woman in America and Palin is a threat to that status quo.

But there was one attack that caught my eye. A woman derided the Palin choice as politics as usual... an effort by the McCain camp to court Hillary voters. I'm sure that observation was accurate. But then she followed it with this quote: McCain will never get my vote because Palin is pro life... she does not believe in a woman's right to choose what to do with her own body. It was an especially panged comment considering that Palin gave birth to a down syndrome child in April. Palin's selfless and courageous decision dwarfs the hundreds and thousands of women who have selfishly and cowardly ended the life of a human being because a woman has a right to choose.

It is interesting that many of the same women, who cavalierly choose to end the life of a human embryo, march hand in hand for PETA, global warming, and endangered species. I find it shocking that it's safer to be born an owl than a human. I wonder if someone should put forth a bill in congress to add humans to the endangered species list. Maybe then unborn humans might have a better chance to breath earth's air, behold its fruited plains, and walk its amber cities. Now, I'm just a Basicguy, but that makes a lot of sense to me.

Obama: The Convenient Candidate

2008-07-07T20:36:00.004-06:00

Now, don't get me wrong, I like things to be convenient just as much as any one else; the alarm clock next to the bed, a tall glass of ice water next to the easy chair, a Chick-fil-A down the street, or a laptop that connects to the internet in any room of the house. However, some conveniences are more one sided and are designed to deceive.

I've been watched the presidential contest for months now. Though I must admit, when my choice flamed out, I haven't been near as passionate, simply an interested observer. I have been amazed at the crowds that Obama commands at every stop and have wondered why. Now that time has passed and many things have been said, I can't help but conclude that Obama is the convenient candidate.

For example, Obama is conveniently black. Why claim to be an African-American when half of your DNA is white? Why not claim to be the other half? Or better yet, why not simply claim to be an American? The convenience here is to catch the historical wave. There is nothing new about saying you are an American running for president. But being the first black man to capture the White House is really saying something.

Obama is conveniently moderate. Now, being a conservative, I've noted the records of those who had thrown their hat into the presidential ring. Interestingly enough, Obama's record was the most liberal of all the candidates. He even bested Hillary Clinton... which is hard to do. But now, Obama claims centrist positions that he hasn't claimed in the past. One example is taking credit for backing a welfare bill in his home state of Illinois that he actually opposed as a state senator.

Obama is conveniently Christian. I know that he denies accusations about his Muslim past, but there are way too many reports about his life to excuse them. This is a Christian nation, for better or for worse. Better in my opinion. And would be more convenient for anyone running for president in a Christian nation to be an avowed Christian.

Now, as more news spreads throughout the blogosphere, be sure to pay attention. You may not hear much about these controversies on network news programs, but there will be plenty being blogged. Determine for yourself if Obama is for real or, like me, conveniently real.

Don't Take it Personal

2008-06-26T19:57:00.002-06:00

Well, it's over. An entrenched incumbent lost his seat in a Utah Republican primary. Chris Cannon, a 12 year vet of Washington politics, was trounced by newcomer Jason Chaffetz. If I had a chance to talk to Mr. Cannon, I'd tell him not to take it personal. He had a voting record that makes a good conservative giddy, but was guilty by association. Most conservatives are generally ticked at congress because of the pathetic state of union. On a Republican watch spending got out of control, debt mounted to the size of Everest, earmarks burdened bills, entitlements grew, corruption spread, and immigration was never solved, etc. It was amazing, you couldn't tell the difference between a Democrat or a Republican.

So you see, Mr. Cannon, you became a target by association. And other conservatives like me hope that term limits come to many more who showed no leadership to stem this unwieldy tide. Unfortunately, Bush's "compassionate conservatism" spilled over the banks and washed a slug of congressmen down river. Mr. Cannon, you were one of them. And then you had the audacity to say that there is a lack of GOP unity in Utah and the US (see Deseret News, Thursday, June 26, 2008, A1, A6). Well, how are we supposed to be unified behind the kind of leadership our esteemed politicians have given us? And you wondered why the delegates at the Utah State Convention seemed "uncivil". I'd say they were appropriately mad.

Now, if I had a chance to talk to Jason Chaffetz, I'd say: don't take it personal. I know, it's the same council I'd give Mr. Cannon. I have my reasons. You see, Mr. Chaffetz, if you let this new position go to your head (like so many others), you'll just end up like Mr. Cannon. We didn't vote you in so you can be all that. You were in essence hired by the people to do a job. You are a public servant. We have no stomach for a political aristocracy. We need a statesman. (Something you said you wouldn't go to Washington to be... remember? Dumb comment, Mr. Chaffetz.) We also need someone with vision who can influence the party to bring sanity back into the halls of congress. Oh, by the way, since "we the people" employ you to do a job, we retain the right to "take things personal" if you choose some other insane course of action.

Finally, to all those who are elected officials, or want to be, and the party elite, don't take this personal. The Republican Party keeps sending requests for money. Why would a conservative want to continue to finance a party that has allowed itself to stray so far off course? This one wouldn't... and won't. Now, I'm just a basicguy, but I'd be willing to bet that other conservatives share this stance: I'm an American first, a conservative second, and a Republican third. Understand?

The Reds of Life

2008-06-19T20:49:00.002-06:00

I just have one question: Why can't the Dodgers play the Reds every day? The Dodgers have their number. In the two series with the Reds this year, the Dodgers have only lost one game. As a Dodger fan that's nirvana. However, I'd feel really bad for the Reds fans... for about 3 minutes.

But isn't that a lot like life? We really don't get to choose who we play. We all face an endless parade of challenges and often the order in which they come seems to be unfair or overwhelming. I suppose that's why we feel relief when we come to challenges or trials that are familiar--those that we've faced before and have successfully stood up to. Oh, that we could always face the Reds in our life's experiences.

Party or Principle?

2008-06-10T21:36:00.004-06:00

I recently had a conversation with a colleague that really got me thinking. He shared an insight I had never considered before. Now, I'm not a young guy by any means, but most of my real political experience has happened since just before the Reagan Revolution. That fact has shaped my beliefs and assumptions about the Republican Party.

My parents were on opposite sides of the political spectrum. My dad was a WWII vet and a dyed in the wool Democrat. My mom on the other hand opted for the Republicans. There was one year when we had political signs in our yard of opposing candidates. One thing you can say is that they each had passion.

So, when it was my turn to enter the voting world and choose a party, who did I follow? My dad. Well, it does make some sense, I was a guy. Most guys were Democrats... right? Not long after I cast a vote for McGovern. However, when he lost badly, I felt like a loser. And whenever I lost in my youth, it wasn't unusual for me to quit. So, I quit politics... for a while. Then one day, I was introduced to Ronald Reagan. No, not personally. He was on TV sharing his reasons for opposing abortion. Something rang true about this man. Was it his warmth? His sincerity? He just made sense.

From that time on, I watched Reagan rise to the top of the Republican world. He brought a conservative message to the US political landscape that made sense. It drew me into the Republican Party, engaged my interest and political energy, and fired my hopes and political passion. And I wasn't alone. From Reagan on, I've assumed that republicanism was synonymous with conservatism.

So, now, back to my colleague. Tom Valletta (http://vallettapapers.blogtownhall.com/) has a similar political genealogy as mine... only he was very involved in the political process. He actually worked on McGovern's campaign. One day I expressed my frustration with the state of the Republican Party. Our ship was adrift and has left its political moorings. It was filled with politicians who have forgotten conservative principles and have done little to offset the growth of big government, entitlements, and debt.

Can you imagine how surprised I was when Tom pointed out that the party was simply returning to what it once was... the Grand Ole Party. I asked him to explain. He said, "Conservatism is a political movement or philosophy. With the rise of Reagan, conservatism hijacked the Republican Party, and has had a good run of influencing the direction of political affairs. Conservatism has simply lost its hold on the party."

We talked for a few minutes longer. It all made sense. My own history with the party was mostly a conservative history. I had never known the party to be any thing different. So, what am I? Am I a Republican or a conservative? A conservative Republican, I suppose. If the Republican Party turns its back on conservative principles (which in some ways, Bush has been guilty of this very thing), then what am I? I'm still a conservative. Basically speaking, I'm an American first, a conservative second, and party member third. Nothing else makes sense to me. And I owe it all to my colleague.

Statesman or Politician?

2008-05-11T21:09:00.003-06:00

As you could probably tell from my last blog I was a delegate for my state's convention. The convention was yesterday... an all day affair. The main objective for my part of the convention was to vote for a congressman. There were 5 candidates; 4 challengers and an incumbent. Each candidate was given 7 minutes to speak to the delegates. I had come to the convention leaning in a particular direction, however, I thought that the speeches might still sway one way or another. I was right.

The first speaker was in his own world. His speech made little sense, but we kindly clapped out of respect. The second, Joe Fergusson, made a great deal of sense, but tended to be over-zealous about a single issue (the North American Union). Though the issue deserves a great deal of attention there are many more things that needed addressing. He was articulate but didn't give himself much of a chance for serious consideration. The third speaker caught my attention. David Leavitt spoke about the need for a true statesman in Washington, not a politician. He had enough fire in his bones that I got stirred. This one deserved some serious consideration. Next, a very energetic Jason Chaffetz took the stand. He had some strong points, the strongest being that he was a fiscal conservative. He proved it by indicating he had a budget for his campaign and stayed within it. Both of his major contenders outspent him by 8 to 1 and also over-spent their budgets. He got a rousing response as he promised to run his office in Washington the same way. The final speaker was the incumbent, Chris Cannon. His point was simple, he has always fought for our state and was in a position to have influence in Washington. My experience has been that all incumbents make this argument. He does have a good voting record but this argument always wears thin.

Well, I voted for the "statesman". After the count, my candidate was in a tenuous third place. The bottom two were eliminated and we voted again. I punched my card for the "statesman", checked for any hanging chads, and stuffed it into the ballot box. When the results were announced I was disappointed once again. My guy was a distant third. Then the unthinkable happened. Campaign volunteers for the "statesman" funneled into the convention hall carrying Chris Cannon signs; a clear signal that Leavitt was not only admitting defeat, but pointing his voters towards his choice for congress.

Understandably Chaffetz supporters booed the effort until the convention officials cleared the illegal campaigners from the hall. I was stunned. My "statesman" had ripped off his mask and all I could see was a politician. I was disappointed in my choice for congress, and the incumbent, who clearly welcomed this effort to sway Leavitt voters his way. Anything to win I guess. I quickly took out my final ballot and punched the number for Chaffetz.

Now, I'm just a basicguy, and some might say I'm not smart enough to understand how politics works. Maybe so. But I can say that something didn't feel quite right. Basically speaking, you can't claim to be a statesman and then act like a politician. Well, I suppose you can, but it just isn't right. I expect more from anyone who seeks to enter public life. I've had enough of the political elite, America's voted royalty, who assume that position affords privilege and wealth. I thought they were to defend the Constitution and serve the public. I guess things have changed. Maybe Jason Chaffetz will surprise me. I can only hope he's heard of the term "statesman".

Buying or Winning Votes?

2008-05-01T20:05:00.005-06:00

Well, I've finally arrived. I feel as close to being a politician as I'm likely to ever get. I was nominated as a state delegate and selected by our precinct voters as part of a Republican caucus meeting. Over the ensuing weeks its been pretty much like the other times I've served as a delegate. But there was something different this time. The difference was probably in me... but it was different all the same. Let me explain.

A couple of weeks ago I was reading the local paper. The front page article of the local section stood out: "Lobbyists gave $125k to legislators" (Deseret News, Saturday, April 19, 2008, B6). That caught my eye. The article broke down some of the gifts that lobbyists were giving to our state legislators: $20,000 for entertainment; $10,00 for t-shirst, umbrellas, caps, etc.; $68,000 for lunches or dinners; and more. I don't know about you, but that sort of appears like bribes... buying favors. Do you know what the clincher was in the article? 89% of the reported gifts were to recipients whose names were undisclosed. Hmmm, added to all the favors, we now have all the secrets. I must admit, the article just didn't sit well with me.

As the weeks passed, my mail began to multiply. You got it, candidates opened the flood gates with arguments and invitations to meet them. All that was just fine. It is my duty to find out all that I can about each candidate so I can make an informed vote at the State Convention. But then I saw it. Candidate after candidate was inviting me to meet them at bbq's, restaurants, pizza parties, breakfast engagements, etc. I even got a 6-pack of bottled root beer. Then it happened. I started to feel like a politician. I thought: "So this is what it feels like!" These people want me to vote a certain way--their way--and they are willing to bribe me or buy my vote.

Well, I want you to know that I have not taken advantage of a single offer... my vote will be pure. It does make one wonder about the candidates. If they play this game on this little stage, what games will they play on the much bigger stage? Now, I'm just a Basicguy, and I may not know all about the bigger world out there, but it seems to me that some rules ought to apply in any game. They wouldn't change the rules from the regular season when they play the Super Bowl would they? Basically speaking, these guys are simply tipping their hand... showing their face.

Now there is one guy who hasn't offered any food or gifts of any sort, just opportunities to discuss the issues. He explained that he intended to run his campaign the way he would run the office if elected--on an appropriate budget. I guess buying me a slice of pizza wasn't in his budget. Hmmm, gotta like that... he's sort of set himself apart from the pack. I guess there's two ways to get votes... buy'em or win'em. This guy just may have won mine.

Legislating from the Throne

2008-04-30T21:06:00.003-06:00

I've often heard some political activists talk about candidates for the Supreme Court or even an occasional member of the current court. They'd say: "We need someone who won't legislate from the bench!" At first I wondered what they were talking about. "Why would a supreme court justice be legislating" and "what is a bench?" Though I'm just a Basicguy, it still didn't take me long to figure out what they were trying to say. The bench is that stand that the justices sit on when they hear and respond to cases brought before them. And the legislating thing? Well, that's how laws are made, usually by the legislature, and should not be by a supreme court with a political agenda.

Well, all this got me thinking the other day. I was reading some of the transcript from the most recent debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Each candidate was warned that they would be pressed by constitutional matters, but it didn't take long to leave the Constitution and see the bickering back and forth over the candidates favorite issues. As I read, I began to wonder how many of the things they were promising to do for America actually related to the duties of a president as dictated by the Constitution. Well, not much.

It seems that most of the things presidential candidates talk about (and that goes for both parties) fall within the duties of the legislative branch, not the executive. Well, if that's the case, would it be fair to say: "We need someone who won't legislate from the throne?" Now, I voted for President Bush, but looking at his politics from this perspective, I wondered how many of the initiatives he instigated really didn't belong to the executive office of government? Here are some to think about: The Iraq war; Prescription drug benefits; NAFTA; CAFTA; No child Left Behind; etc., etc., etc.

Well, I imagine this line of discussion could spark some debate. So be it. There's nothing wrong with a healthy constitutional conversation. All I'd ask first is that you pull out your old pamphlet of the Constitution and review articles I and II of the Constitution. Article I deals with the Legislative Branch and Article II deals with the Executive. Put the current president and the candidates on trial.

Basically speaking, whenever you hear any politician put forth some fascinating plan for the country, ask yourself if the Constitution really allows them to do that. If it does, then maybe that person is a good choice. However, if it doesn't, it ought to worry us that such important people do not know the very Constitution they promise to protect and uphold on a stack of bibles. If we're not more vigilant on these constitutional issues, we may find that "legislating from the throne" is far worse than legislating from the bench. Keep your constitutional eyes open America.

Change the Climate on Climate Change

2008-04-19T13:20:00.003-06:00

Was I just seeing things? I'm sure my eyes were playing tricks with me, but I thought that was Newt Gingrich sitting with Nancy Pelosi on TV. As I sat recently watching a program on TV, Newt and Nancy appeared on a commercial together. Nancy admitted that the to of them hadn't agreed on much over the years (to which Newt nodded his head in approval), she said there was one thing they both did agree on. Newt then announced that they both agreed on doing something about Global Climate Change. I about died.

You already know how I feel about climate change or global warming (see my blog entry titled: "The Spectacle of Daily Spectacle" on March 20, 2008). It's a scam. Current "real" science does not support such a claim. But the green movement in America, who blame man for all the ills on earth, would have us stall our economy and further indebt our nation to escape the coming climate crisis. Don't buy it. And there he was, Newt Gingrich alongside Nancy, having bought the green line hook, line, and sinker. He had swallowed the whole line and the rod and the reel. Newt, hurry to YouTube and watch The Great Global Warming Swindle before its too late!

If that wasn't enough, the Deseret News reported this morning that Gordon Brown called on the US and Europe "to lead a new era of global 'interdependence' aimed at solving international problems such as terrorism, poverty and climate change" (see Deseret News, Saturday, April 19, 2008, A12). There it was again... climate change. And you can bet that climate change is on his mind because he's bought into the assumption that man is the major contributor of climate change. We are in real trouble when the heads of state start pushing agendas based on fear instead of fact.

Now I know I'm just a Basicguy. I don't have a science degree. But as I listen to other sources besides the mainline media (that do not have an obvious liberal agenda), I'm convinced that the scientific community is not in agreement on this issue. Many do believe that there is evidence of climate change, but there is no evidence that pins it on man. Other natural forces are at work such as, the earth's ecosystem, changes in activity on the sun, and the CO2 created by domestic animals. Even a Basicguy can read. Gore is, and always has been, wrong. There is no scientific consensus on global warming. Basically speaking, we need to change the climate on the climate change discussion.

What We Do in the Name of Religion

2008-04-17T21:26:00.003-06:00

I'm often surprised by what people will do to each other in the name of religion. Just this past presidential season displayed the widespread bias of evangelicals against Mormons. Though he tried to hide his disdain, Mr. Huckabee probably smiled when Mitt Romney opted to drop out of the race. Those Mormons are a cult you know and the nation has been spared being seized upon by this stray evil. Well, I suppose I shouldn't be a sore loser... but its tough for us Basicguy's to accept defeat or disappointment with the needed grace.

As interesting as I find this particular issue, there is a far bigger picture that I'd like to address in relation to religious abuse. I came across an interesting article today written by Ken Timmerman. He writes a column often dealing with the Middle East and the challenges this country faces there. He often has insights from well-placed connections. In this article he covered the Kurds in Northern Iraq. Notice this:

“The Kurdish regional government in Northern Iraq is providing a safe haven to several thousand Iraqi Christians who have fled persecution in other parts of the country, government officials and local pastors told Newsmax.

“Unlike refugee camps set up for some 100,000 Shia Muslims fleeing attacks from Sunnis, which are closely monitored by Kurdish security forces, Christians have been encouraged to live anywhere.

“‘Christians in Iraq need special attention, because they’ve been suffering because they are Christians,’ Deputy Prime Minister Omar Fattah told Newsmax in an exclusive interview in Erbil. ‘Maybe we give some instructions to others where they can go, but to Christians, never, because we are not afraid they will be terrorists.’”

Did you catch that? The Kurd’s welcome Iraqi Christians and allow them to live anywhere “because we are not afraid they will be terrorists.” They can’t do the same with sunni or shia Muslim’s because there is no telling what you’ll get. And yet the Christians flee Bagdad and other cities in their homeland because of the abuse they suffer… even unto death.

Now I know that there have been years of darkness even among Christianity. But that was ages ago. Christians have matured and come of age. Christianity led the world into an age of progress and civility. Then radical Islam showed up on stage and has violently imposed its archaic beliefs upon the world.

It’s sad isn’t it? A people who once offered the world so much in all the educational disciplines has fallen pray to a religion and a movement that seeks to plunge the world back into the dark ages or Old Testament times. All the progress and good that God has wrought through His children over the years is threatened by this growing threat.

So basically speaking, it is surprising what people are willing to do to each other in the name of religion. I’m glad to be part of a people that others “are not afraid they will be terrorists.” Now, if only Mr. Huckabee would let me be a Christian.

Hillary's Fantasy Stories

2008-03-27T21:28:00.002-06:00

Over the years I've really enjoyed reading fantasy. J.R.R. Tolkien, Terry Brooks, Lloyd Alexander, and Susan Cooper have kept me entertained for many years. Now I know there are no Hobbits, and that a man named Allannon probably can't live for 300 years, but to relive the victory of light over darkness keeps me going back for more.

Recently, though, I've come to find out that I no longer need to make a trip to the library for a new fantasy fix. All I have to do is turn of the TV and watch any of the national news broadcasts. You see, a daily look at those politicians running for president of the United States is fantasy enough.

Lately, the fantasy author I've been most intrigued with is Hillary Clinton. Did you hear her colorful rendition of a visit she made to Bosnia while the First Lady? Man bullets were flying as she and Chelsea ran for cover. Oh, and don't forget the one where Chelsea was at ground zero during the terror filled morning of 9/11. Luckily she had just darted into a coffee shop, but heard the plane hit the building! What a close call. Hillary almost lost Chelsea twice. And don't forget how Hillary single handedly brokered piece accords in Ireland.

Wowzer! You see what I mean? Who needs a good fantasy book when you can get stories like these. Actually, that's really all these accounts are... just stories... inaccurate accounts of what really happened. Hillary has been found out as a fibber. She tends to stretch the truth. Now I'm just a Basicguy, but I think the word is liar. I don't know how else to describe her recent claims except as bald-faced lies.

When you read fantasy, you expect a world that is made up... make believe. When you listen to a candidate for president, you'd hope that the truth might be somewhere nearby. Not so with Hillary. If she can't tell the truth about a simple story, how could we possibly expect the truth from her in a campaign promise or a State of the Union speech? As for me, this lady has crossed a line. Basically speaking, she could never win my vote.

The Spectacle of Daily Spectacle

2008-03-20T20:35:00.000-06:00

The other night my wife, daughter and I were playing on the internet. We were googling crazy words and things when the idea came to google our names. To my surprise my name listed pages of hits. As we looked through the lists, most referred to books I had help write and a published article. But one entry caught my eye. It was a blog called The Daily Spectacle. As I explored the site I realized it was kept by a liberal living in Salt Lake City.

This guy had somehow noticed a brief letter I had written to the editor of the Deseret Morning News. Unbeknownst to me, he had clipped my message and proceeded to rip me on my opinion. I had no idea it was there or that anyone had responded to my message... I had no opportunity to carry on a conversation. But it was kinda cool that he at least referred to me as "Mr." (see http://desspec.blogspot.com/2006/10/opinion-bruce-l-andreason.html)

As I read his thoughts on the subject, I noticed that he claimed to have read research on global warming and knew that it was for real. Science had determined that global warming was a man-made problem and that "scientists aren't pulling this research out of their [posterior]". Then he told naysayers to quit listening to Rush Limbaugh for scientific insights. I assume that he assumed that Rush was my source.

Well, all of that is very interesting. But I'm glad to report that as of today most scientists doubt anymore that global warming is a man-made phenomenon. In fact a report today indicates that the oceans temperature have actually cooled a bit. And who hasn't seen the BBC special "The Great Global Warming Swindle" on YouTube in 8 parts? (see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIjGynF4qkE)

Well, I know I'm just a Basicguy, but seeing things in hindsight, maybe its better to listen to Rush Limbaugh with half a brain tied behind his back than to Al Gore (who seems to be this guys source for his science) who laughably invented the internet and listened to his mother sing the theme song for the AFL-CIO as a babe in a crib years before it was written. Take your pick... but I know which one I'll listen to. Basically speaking, listen to the one who has no financial agenda... no reason to whip people into a frenzy and to make panicked choices that allow big special interests groups to rake in the bucks.

Thinking Outside YOUR Box

2008-03-11T20:36:00.000-06:00

Has anyone ever told you that you need to "think outside the box"? I get it on occasion. Sometimes it comes out at work too. Just what does it mean to "think outside the box"? What is a person really saying to you when inviting to "think outside the box"?

For me, a Basicguy, it makes me wonder. In a corporate setting, when your company pays a group big money to promote fresh ideas and exciting change among employees, thinking outside the box is a common idea. I know, I've been there. But think about it, if you're to think outside the box, aren't you really being encouraged to think outside of your box? And here's the kicker, isn't the person inviting you to "think outside the box" really asking you to think "inside" his or her box? So, when it comes to boxes, who's box is it best to think in?

Now, obviously there must be something to this "thinking outside the box" idea or it wouldn't continue to come up. So when does it make the most sense to think outside the box? I suppose that each of us tend to slip into ruts. We all recognize ruts, they are part of human nature. Thinking outside the box can dislodge a rutted person and set them on a new path.

Another important way to think outside the box is to put yourself in the shoes of another or to try to see things through someone else's eyes. This can help us feel needed compassion for others and become more responsible members of society.

Maybe there are some benefits in business for employees to "think outside the box", but I see more intrinsic value for families, neighborhoods, communities, and nations. Basically speaking, it makes a lot of sense to "think outside YOUR box" as often as you can. In the end the world would be a better place to live in.

Porn: Drug of the New Millennium

2008-03-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

Back in high school everyone knew who the druggies were. They didn't try very hard to keep it a secret. You could tell by how they dressed, acted, or who they hung with. Of course, more drank alcohol in those days, but illegal drugs were on the rise in are little town just outside of Vegas. Now, over the years, drug abuse has grown into a plague, especially with the explosion of legal drug abuse. Whenever you find abuse of drugs, you'll see a trail of death and sorrow.

However, there is a new drug out there that doesn't get near the press. You'll never see it over-reported on Access Hollywood (as they did the accidental death of a movie star who abused prescription drugs). Yet, one author tagged this new drug as "The Drug of the new millennium" (http://www.familysafemedia.com/drug_of_the_new_millennium_6_c.html). Sadly, this drug leaves it's own trail of death and sorrow. What is this drug of the new millennium? Pornography.

Researchers have found that pornographic images release certain chemicals in the human brain. These chemicals tend to be every bit as addictive as those taken in with a needle, or a snort, or a glass of water. Still nobody considers pornography a threat... not like cocaine or heroine. In fact many drugs are illegal, but pornography often enjoys legal support from the 1st amendment... you know, free speech. To a Basicguy like me, I have a hard time figuring how pornography fits under free speech.

The US is the biggest provider and user of this drug of the new millennium. 80% of all pornography on the internet is produced and spread throughout the world from our borders. If we wanted to, the US could really do something about this plague. As of now, the US controls the internet. There are thousands of portals available on the internet. An average family uses four or five portals. Why do pornographers need access to all of the thousands of portals to spread their disease? We could divide portals into zones. Begin with family safe zones and then provide other realms for increasingly adult regions of the internet. We rate movies, why not internet portals?

Basically speaking, we can spare families and save kids... if we chose basic reason. We could surf the net without accidentally tripping over an offensive site. We could open our email and find a message from grandma instead of several offers to experience porn. Of course, all of this makes a bit too much sense in a world that defines pornography as free speech. It's all pretty disturbing. It's sad to see the demise of basic decency and innocence.

Take Not "From a Thread to a Shoelatchet"

2008-02-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

It was years ago now, but it's something I've never forgotten. In the "heat" of the Cold War, a group representing college students in Great Britain, sent an open letter to the people of the United States of America. They wanted the US to tone down the rhetoric and the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Their argument was simple, it's better to be a communist than dead. I remember my thinking at the time: "So, give up the hope of a free world for one dominated and dictated by a regime of power-hungry men? A world where the promise of a better life is in the hands the advantaged few? Are you kidding me?" I had no interest in surrendering "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", simply because a group of students feared the mighty power of the Soviet Union. Of course, since then we have found out that the Soviet power was a ruse and that communism really doesn't work. Marx was wrong.

Now, to a BasicGuy, all that seems pretty plain. But here we are, all these years later, and some troubling signs appear in our own land. There is a growing number of individuals who tend to believe in government subsidies or hand-outs. The government should provide health care for everyone, social security for retirement, and prescription drug benefits. The government should keep banks from repossessing the homes of those defaulting on mortgages and other loans. The government should do this and that. It seems to me if we keep going down such a precarious path, we may as well have bowed to the pressure to surrender to the Russians so many years ago, because we're going there anyway.

And what's really interesting is that some of this new "attitude" about government sponsored programs is coming from college age young people in our own country. The attitude being, the government owes me something because I pay taxes. The problem is, if any people become accustomed to paying the government to provide services, in time that government is empowered to take ownership in their life. There was a scene in the movie "Cinderella Man, that moved me. (It was surprising that a liberal leaning Hollywood would allow such an honorable act to remain in the film.) The lead actor, Russell Crowe, was a boxer, but times were hard. He was close to losing his family because he couldn't support them. In a desperate act, he borrowed from the government. In fact, he took welfare. However, he was a decent basic guy, and felt a specific responsibility for his own life and that of his family. Not only did he feel some shame for needing the government hand-out, as soon as he was able, he paid the money back. The government official tried to explain that it wasn't necessary to return to money, but he insisted. That's the attitude I've been raised with. Pay your own way as best you can.

This idea is as old as the Bible. In the days of Abraham, there were several kings in confederate wreaking havoc upon the peoples near where Abraham lived. Sodom and Gomorrah fell pray to this army and Abraham's nephew, Lot, and many others were taken captive along with their possessions. When Abraham heard of it, he amassed his own confederacy and defeated the offending army. He returned Lot, and the people, and their goods to their freedom. When the King of Sodom greeted Abraham, the successful warrior, he said: "Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself" (Genesis 14:21). All this, I suppose, to show gratitude for the deed. But Abraham's response is one to remember. He said, "I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich" (Genesis 14:23).

Now, I'm just a BasicGuy, but that inspires me. It just makes plain sense. I don't want any government to own me. In my way of thinking, Governments job is simply to provide an atmosphere where people are free to have life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If we grant the government too much power to provide for the basics in our lives, we simply deed away the right to determine who we are and who we can become. That's far too much to give up.

So here we are in the 21st century. A unique and historic presidential election is taking place. On the one hand, we have candidates who claim that the government needs to do more, or provide more, or be more of the answer for the people in the United States of America. Are we going to choose or vote our way into the very circumstance that British college students pleaded for us to embrace so many years ago? I hope not.

Basically speaking, we have a simple choice. If a candidate runs on a record or rhetoric that offers government sponsored solutions to life's problems, then find someone else to vote for. If "change" is simply more government entitlements and hand-outs, remember Abraham or the Cinderella Man, and choose the basic life instead. Take not "from a thread even to a shoelatchet"; don't allow any government to claim it made you rich. We'll all regret it.

"Huck"ing Romney

2008-01-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

It was amazing to read about the meteoric rise to the top that Mike Huckabee did in the Iowa presidential caucus. He surprised everyone, especially Romney's camp, who had expected to do very well. Romney's obvious plan was to spend a lot of money in the two early primaries and jump start his little known campaign. But Huckabee stole the show. Of course, Huckabee's explanation was that his message just rang true among Republican faithful. Others were suspicious that he had simply rallied the Evangilical forces.

I'm just a basic guy so I took everyone's word for it... they're all smarter than me anyway. But it kept eating at me. I read an article that suggested that Huckabee's rise to the top was really very simple... Huckabee is just a likeable guy. Well, that was obviously true. I had seen the man in the debates and on TV... he did seem likeable. In fact, I could probably vote for the guy under the right circumstances. He and I saw eye to eye on a few issues. But when he didn't score so well in Hew Hampshire, it got me thinking again. Was his rise to the top simply because he was likeable? I began to doubt it.

The thought that really stuck out to me was the heavey Evangilical vote. Could it be that his rise was less likeability and more a movement against Romney? In fact I started wondering if it was really a vote against a Mormon. Huckabee's second place win in South Carolina was largely Evangelical again. His candidacy looks more like an effort to ensure that a Mormon doesn't win. I know, I sound like a conspiracy freak. I don't mean to. I'm just suspisious of the whole thing.

Being a basic guy, I'd normally worry a bit about being labeled a conspiracy freak. But this time other things came to my attention that kept me sane. One was a University of Vanderbilt poll (survey by political scientists John Geer, Brett Benson, and Jennifer Merolla). The authors of the survey found that 57% of the Evangelicals admitted to having a bias against Mormon's. Now in my mind, that would be votes against Romney. I didn't want to believe it at first, but then it started to make sense.

Would I vote against Huckabee because he was an Evangelical? Not at all. In fact, I don't remember asking what a candidates particular religion was in the past. Then I wondered if I would vote for Romney just because he and I share the same religion. Then I remembered Harry Reed, the Nevada Senator. There is no way he'd get my vote. When I settle all of this in my mind, I wasn't very happy with what appeared to be an Evangelical effort to keep a Mormon off the Republican ticket.

If that was all I'd probably give up on the issue and write it off and a lame-brained idea. I came across another article that moved my suspisions to fact. Jonathan Martin, writing for Politico, revealed Huckabee's real agenda. He gathered his thoughts from Huckabee's own speech after the prmary in South Carolina and described the Evangelical presidential hopeful as a "Mitt Killer" (see http://www.politico.com:80/neews/stories/0108/8003.html). Huckabee's plan is to steal conservative Evangelical votes from Romney so McCain can win the nomination.

Not only does that show a certain level of unchristian activity, but it also shows that Huckabee is not a true conservative. A true conservative would not help a liberal to moderate McCain win the Whitehouse. That seals the deal for me. I've lost the respect I once had for the "likeable" Huckabee. He's helped me narrow my own field of possible contenders for the Republican nominee. Thanks Huck for "Huck"ing Romney. Basically speaking, you've made my job much easier, especially now that Thompson has called it quits.

"Best Year So Far!"

2008-01-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

I was watching a little tv recently and a Super Bowl advertisement caught my attention. It was glitzy. It was quick. It had flashes of great plays and some comments by athletes on teams who still have a chance at the big event. One player was holding the Super Bowl trophy in out-stretched hands and then he lowered it long enough to kiss it. Then another player comes on the screen talking about how this is what its all about. All of the work, the sweat, the pain leads to this defining moment... which will be the most important moment in his life. Wow... the most important moment of his life. That's saying something.

Now, don't get me wrong, I've been a sports fan over the years and have cheered for my favorite teams. Gee, maybe that's the problem... I'm just sore because the Ram's didn't show up to play this year. Be that as it may, there is still something telling when a person indicates that their defining moment is an athletic event... a big one for sure... but its just a game! Can you imagine how many people are just simply out of luck because they didn't have the opportunity to win the Super Bowl? I guess they don't get to have a "defining moment" in their lives. It's too bad... all is lost.

Now again, I'm just a Basicguy, but I hope there are other things in life that can be considered "defining". Recently I was with my son and his young family. I saw him tenderly hold their newborn son, raise him in the air for others to see, and then lower the babe so he could kiss his son on the forehead. I know it may not have the glitz of the Super Bowl trophy, but to the normal Joe's like me, it certainly was "defining".

Basically speaking we all have defining moments. They are made of events or experiences that we place value on. Frankly, there are some things that deserve to be way more valued than they are. If we would just open our eyes and hearts to the world around us, we'd find plenty of things to love and to value. Often it is in the basic things in life that real defining moments are found. Basicguys tend to find them while the not so basic walk right past them on their way to the glitz or the money or the fame.

Well, its a new year. Is it possible for us to land some real defining moments this year? It is for the Basicguy. Years ago, another Basicguy had a profound influence on me. As we came together from opposite directions one regular day, I gave the traditional greeting: "how are you doing?" His answer wasn't traditional like, "good (fine or great), how are you?" He surprised me with: "Best day so far!" The look in his face convinced me that this was no joke or some platitude. He meant it.

So, I wonder, is it possible that such a positive approach to daily life might garner many more of those elusive "defining moments" for Basicguys? I'm willing to bet on it. Maybe we could try an experiment. What if Basicguys like you and me approached this new year with a new attitude and practiced greeting others with, "best year so far". I know, I know, its one thing to say it, but quite another to believe. By all means believe it. What do we have to lose? That's right... nothing.

So, how is this Basicguy doing? Best year so far!

All in the Family

2007-12-30T19:19:00.001-07:00

The news was heart-wrenching. It was Christmas Eve when a daughter and her boyfriend visited her parents. Swept by anger into a frenzy, the misguided young woman and her beau, shoot her parents to death. After dragging the bodies into an outdoor shed, more family arrived for a holiday visit. Fearing being exposed for the murder of her parents, this murderous team leaps into action once more. by the time their dark work is finished, two young children and their parents are added to the mayhem. Aren't families great?

Some might wonder whether families are worth all the trouble after hearing stories like this one. For a Basicguy like me, it is all very hard to comprehend. All I can figure is that there must have been something far less than "basic" going on in this particular family... at least in the incomplete mind of this murderous young woman. It is all too sad, especially for a Christmas season.

Fortunately, there are basic families scattered all over the world--unsung and unnoticed by the media--where goodness, peace and joy reign. We had grandchildren visiting our home for Christmas. Not only did their eyes sparkle with the lights on the Christmas tree, but with the pure and exquisite joy of Christmas. You see, Santa did visit and once again did his magic. There was nothing particularly extraordinary or expensive about this Christmas. In fact it was a perfect display of all that is right about Basicguys and basic families. It was just simple joy enjoyed by a simple family that loves being together.

It was a traditional day, where there was as much joy over the Mountain Man breakfast and Orange Rolls as the gifts. To simply look into each face, adult and child, and see the warm glow of joy was enough for the day. Of course gifts are a rich part of Christmas and have been since wise men brought them to a Babe born in a manger in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago. But it may be that the silent gifts of adoration brought to the manger by spiritually enwrapped shepherds, are the most lasting and enduring gifts that can be given.

Though I have had many associations throughout my life (at work, in the community, at church), I have found the richest ones as part of a family. It began with the family of my youth in Southern Nevada and now continues with the family of my adulthood. My wife, my children, their spouses, and their children have added to the enduring joy of family. From face to face, both young and older, the warm glow of joy keeps the simple gifts of Christmas alive for me and magnifies the manger in ways I never could have understood as a child.

Basically speaking, most joy in life comes in a family. The family is where it is at. From the Holy family all down through the ages to mine, family is where it is at. I can only hope that everyone is as lucky as I am. If you're not, take me at my word and set about making a family for yourself. I know I'm only a basicguy, but I believe that God intended for all of His children to have a family. I mean we came from one didn't we? How can we be considered God's children if we weren't part of a heavenly family? And so He designed that there would be families here. But life is not perfect. People make mistakes; some very serious mistakes. But that doesn't mean we can't break imperfect chains.

So, since a family is where it's at and the best things happen "all in the family," do your best to be part of one. Do your best to have your own. It's best to do so in God's way. He is the designer of the family... being the first Father that I know of. Doesn't it make sense to follow His lead? Basicguys tend to simply follow their God's perfect lead. Good luck making something "basic" out of your life... all in a family.

Mitt Romney and Mormon Insanity

2007-12-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

Republican Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, recently gave a talk to clarify his religious faith. Being a practicing Mormon, it apparently became critical for his candidacies survival. His "Faith in America" speech turned out to be more satisfying to Mormon's than to others. Many complained that he didn't go deep enough into his own beliefs to satisfy the masses. The latest polls out of Iowa seem to confirm this feeling. Romney has slipped further behind Huckabee in a state he once dominated.

My son who is a law student at the University of Nebraska, sent me an editorial written by a poly sci student in Lincoln. I found it really fascinating that in this students mind, everyone else but him seem to believe things that are insane. He pointed out that Scientologists believe in a dark science fiction type character named Xenu who will one day come earth to destroy it. He then likened that to a Mormon belief that an angel named Moroni appeared to a boy named Joseph Smith and directed him to some gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated. Because of belief's like these, he then purported that Mormons and Scientologists are insane. How can you vote for someone who believes in such insanity?

Now, I know I'm just a Basicguy, but I feel certain that if I were to pin this young student down on his own religious beliefs I'd find something that borders on the fantastic or even the insane. For example, he claims to believe in Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world. Does his belief include the Savior's miraculous birth? If so, couldn't anyone with a rational mind conclude that the virgin birth borders on the fantastic or insane? All humans, religious or atheist, can be accused of some insanity. The Jews believe that God wrote commandments on stone books with His finger; Muslim's believe that Mohammad was taken to heaven on a magic chariot; evolutionists believe that all living creatures descended from an ameba living in a miry primordeal swamp. Can't any of these appear fantastic or "insane" to others?

Clearly, I draw a line with Xenu, but what's wrong with an angel named Moroni? Is that so different from an angel named Gabriel or Raphael? Why this student choses to lump the spiritual drama claimed by Mormon's with Xenu and not the New Testament's Gabriel is beyond me. If I had to guess, I'd say he has something against Mormons. Which is unfortunately often the case when individuals choose to accent the excesses of any religion.

I feel bad for Romney. He seems like a sharp guy... unlike most of us basic guys. Anyone who has the smarts to saved companies that are billions of dollars in the red, could probably do a lot to save a nation nearing an economic collapse. Basically speaking, a Mormon can be an American too. Look at me, I'm an American and a Basicguy all rolled up into one. Gee, maybe I could run for president?

Clearing Things Up a Bit

2007-12-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I misplaced my glasses. I can read without them so I often take them off when dealing with things close to me. When I realized they were missing, I searched everywhere for them. I went to the restaurant where we ate that night. I went to the store we shopped at after dinner. I turned the house upside down and wracked my brain, all to no avail.

I finally had to admit that they were gone. So I turned to an old pair of glasses hidden in a drawer for safe keeping. Actually I keep them out of sight. They are rather large by today’s standard and remind me of “That 70’s show.” But what am I to do? I’m just a Basicguy.

I bravely pressed forward with my “better than nothing” glasses. Day after day I was reminded why they normally sat hidden in a drawer. Since they were also a much older prescription, it didn’t take long until I set up an appointment with my eye doctor. I found out it had been 4 ½ years since my last visit so it made double sense.

Each day I realized how difficult life is without clear vision. I failed to acknowledge a waving friend. Street lights were like a kaleidoscope while driving at night. But I could at least read.

Finally, one morning, my wife and I knelt to pray as is our custom. As I knelt at the foot of our bed, I leaned forward and glimpsed something caught between the footboard and mattress. It was my glasses. What joy; what surprise. It was a nice beginning to my day.

To a guy like me, the meaning was obvious. There is a connection between prayer and glasses. Basically speaking, prayer can clear up a lot of things in life. You just seem to see things better when you pray. So when darkness tends to blur things in your life, or friends or other associates seem oddly distanced from you, pray, and see if things don’t clear up a bit.

"Train"ing the Mind

2007-11-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

Riding a commuter train to and from work can provide a revelation almost every day. You see so many different people; the variety is amazing. For the most part they mind their own business hunkered down in some carefully controlled little world. Most a busy with something... though some slumber away the miles and frequent stops.

As I looked around today, I noticed that some were lost in a book. A few were texting on their cell phones. The normal number were nodding their heads to tunes on iPods. One was carrying on a rather loud argument with his wife on his cell phone. It sounded like a divorce in the making. Another had his laptop on his lap, probably unable to leave work at the office. Still, a handful were talking, friends on their way home from college classes.

Now, it's not that any of these things are wrong or bad, some might even be necessary. However, there is another activity that could benefit anyone who tries it. I call it "train"ing the mind. Not bad for a Basicguy, huh. Just what is "train"ing the mind? Consider what you can learn by listening, thinking, and writing.

One of my sons and his wife gave me a small leather notebook for Father's Day for this very purpose. It's a place that I write thoughts and impressions while on the train. The process has made me a better person; a more thoughtful person. I'm also a more confident person because I carefully think things through and have a better idea which direction I need to go. Basically speaking, focused thinking and writing enriches my life.

Now, I know I'm just a Basicguy and you might feel I lack some expert degree to be talking about such a thing. Forget about me and just give it a try. what can you lose? Some sleep? Not every one rides a train everyday, but everyone has down time somewhere in the day. find your down moments and make some of them a little more productive. I did.

"Fake 'em Out!"

2007-11-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Most of us have some kind of hobby; something we love to do. I'm no different. I don't share or talk much about my hobbies beyond family and close friends. It can be a bit embarrassing when you blab about your hobby as if you are some kind of expert to someone who really is an expert (or at least appears more expert than you as you talk). When you come across someone who shares your passion for the hobby in question, they ultimately want to compare notes, or, worse yet, see your work. That's when the inferior flags go up: "may- day, may-day, danger approaching!" At least for Basicguys.

One of my hobbies is photography. Recently I was on a Hawaiian cruise. As we cruised to the next island, the ship's captain promised we would cruise the famous Na Pali coastline of Kauai. I found a good spot to shoot from and planted myself. I wasn't disappointed. The Na Pali is awesome. I fired shot after shot. The guy next to me was doing the same with a point-and-shoot. He watched as I changed lenses back and forth on my Canon DSLR. As I packed up my gear, he asked if I got some good shots. I could tell he felt a bit jealous. I said I thought I did. He said, "I'll see your stuff in National Geographic."

Of course, he assumed photography was more than a hobby for me because of my gear. But I've learned that it isn't the gear that makes the shot, but the person behind the gear. Don't get me wrong, many times more advanced gear provides advantages that a point-and-shoot can't match. Still, I've seen some nice stuff taken with a point-and-shoot. It just takes a little more time and patience to get it. I took a shot last Christmas that is suitable for printing and framing. It was a night shot taken with a Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ3. I hand held the little 5 megapixel camera and used no flash. But its the composition that makes the shot. I took great care to only include what I wanted in the picture when I snapped the shutter.

So, the next time you have a chance to compare notes with a fellow hobbyist, take it. You will either learn something worth knowing and enriching your own hobby experience, or you will give someone else the motivation to take their hobby to the next level. Remember, with a little time and patience, you can show little flashes of brilliance in your hobby. Basically speaking, fake 'em out!

Ring True?

2007-11-04T19:58:00.002-07:00

Well, it happened again. How many times can you feel good about announcing something that you very well know is a lie, or, at the very least, a deception? Now I know I’m just a Basicguy, but that just doesn’t seem, right. Maybe it’s OK to the privileged, or those who have told themselves that the means justifies some grand end. But somehow I can’t help but think it violates something… something good… something we shouldn’t lose or allow to slip from our grip. It’s something worth latching onto and never letting go. Do you know what I mean?

Here in my current home state (which isn’t the state of my home), a political issue is topping the news and water-cooler conversations. Here it’s known as Referendum 1. It deals with providing vouchers to families with students in the public schools, who have a desire to try a private school instead. The voucher awards $500 to $3,000 per student depending on the family income. Even at the highest amount, it is less than half of the total allotted to students in this state. So, those opposed to the voucher (mostly educators, both state and national), advertise that $459 million dollars will be siphoned out of the public schools. You can imagine what that number looks like to concerned parents. Of course they will vote against it. However, the ad doesn’t explain that more than half of the funds stay with the public schools, even though their class sizes diminish. Basically speaking, there is something devious about their selective information campaign.

If that was all the anti-voucher folk were saying, I’d think the voucher proponents might have a chance to refute the message. However, added to the multi-million dollar deficit lie is the suggestion that teachers in the private schools are not required to have certifications. False! So, parents in this state have to consider a huge loss of funds and ill-prepared teachers. They’d obviously wonder why anyone would even suggest a voucher plan that fails so miserably—a plan that was drafted and passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor. They must not have done their homework. I guess the only ones who know how to do the homework are the teachers—the same ones who have an invested interest in doing anything they can to not give private schools more money—who probably fear the competition.

Well, I don’t know about you, Basicguy’s like me are probably just not thoughtful enough to figure all these weighty things out. That being said, it sure seems strange that most of the people opposed to vouchers are public school teachers and the NEA. If there were a broader support for the opposition it might not look so odd. It might ring more true. As it is, every time I see a public school teacher of the year on TV proclaiming that Referendum 1 is bad for my home state, I’m basically saying to myself: “You mean, it’s bad for you.” Now that rings true for me.

Radical Islam’s Chink

2007-10-23T14:31:00.001-06:00

I know I'm just a basicguy, but it seems to me that the Bush Doctrine (which in reality is the old doctrine of the Western World) has exposed a serious flaw, or chink, in Radical Islam’s holy armor. Bush’s doctrine of God-given Freedom and Liberty to people of every land, culture, and religion has incited a renewed holy jihad. One might ask: Why?

Well, basically, radical Islam obviously cannot trust its own people. Because of this concern, self-styled religious leaders of this movement seek to impose a strict and forbidding law upon its people. If they didn’t, as the history of the Western World attests, they would suffer a miserable defeat at the hands of Freedom and Liberty.

Radical Islam suppresses choice and forces its will upon the masses. They have to. Who in their right mind would choose a god or religion that stifles free thought or expression, hinders people’s motivation to learn and discover more about the secrets of God’s creations, and smother desires to live peacefully in a world with a variety of cultures and beliefs?

Maybe what it really comes down to is that the radicals of radical Islam don’t really trust themselves in a world of Freedom and Liberty. It may be the chink in their personal armor that leads them to such a destructive frenzy. What was it that the radicals did the night before taking flight on 9/11? They took advantage of the “evils” of a free society. Well, basically speaking, at least now they are in a position where their chinked armor is no longer tempted by the evil Western World.

Come to the Summit

2007-10-17T21:23:00.000-06:00

I suppose it shouldn't be too hard to understand that a basicguy like me, just doesn't get! It is a hard pill to swallow when you find out you're not as smart as you thought you were. I mean, I have a Basic education (again, that's my high school's name), but I guess its just not enough. What am I talking about?

Health care. That's right, health care. I mean, I really care about health care. Don't you? If you don't, you haven't paid for a doctor's bill or medicine recently. It's obvious the presidential candidates do... at least they keep talking about it. The dems all seem to believe that the best way to fix the problem is to turn it all over to the federal government, they'll fix it. You know, the way they've fixed welfare and social security... with that track record we shouldn't let the government within 100 miles of the health care system. What are the republicans saying? Not much. Their answer is more about letting things ride to see if the market adjusts and eventually provides relief.

The real surprise to me is what the private health care professionals seem to be doing about it. They just keep billing the insurance companies as if they are deep pockets who in turn reach into the pockets of us plain old consumers.

Does it look like anyone really wants to seriously deal with the issue?

Now I know I'm just a basicguy, but basically speaking, if I had anything to do with it, I'd hold a summit on the health care crisis. Key industry practitioners, administrators, and thinkers in the private sector would be invited to attend. I'd lay down the simple truth that leaving things as they are would produce ever more expensive care and force Americans to choose the government/socialized options being spewed out by the dems just to make health more affordable. That solution would be a disaster for the private sector... and for me, and you. Yet people are slowly embracing the idea of national health care.

However, wouldn't it be better if the health care industry worked together to find practical solutions to the problem that allowed them to continue in business and yet provide excellent health care that the rest of the world dreams about? Americans have often stepped up when an identified crisis called. American ingenuity and hard work bailed us out of financial collapse and wars. Why not health care? Let's give them a chance.

So, Mr. or Mrs. President, invite them to "Come to the Summit". It seems to me that common folk, with a common goal, can work together to provide for the greater good. In the end everyone benefits. So, basically speaking, maybe its time to get back to basics. Why isn't anyone out there suggesting such a simple solution? I guess more people need a basic education.

Basically Speaking

2007-10-13T12:33:00.000-06:00

A few friends have asked about the use of "basic" in many of my descriptions: basic blab; basic guy; basic thoughts; basic thinker; etc. Well it pretty much stems from my high school experience. I attended Basic High School. No joke. It's as real as money (well, some might challenge the reality of money). I can honestly say that I have a basic education. So, whenever I choose to share a thought in this type of forum, basically speaking, its from a basicguy.

Speaking of basic. I think we need more basic people in the world. Let me rephrase that. I think we need more exposure to basic people in the world. Wasn't there a show once--one of those news magazines--that had a guy traveling to select cities, finding a basic name in the phone book, and doing a story about something unique in that families life? There were some pretty interesting stories.

What do we get? Brittany Spears, Anna Nicole Smith, Howard Stern, Nicole Richey, Obama, Hillary, All Gore. What's basic about these people? In a word, nothing. I find most of the people in the news are overrated. They get show time when what they have to offer should garner no time. People living basic lives generally offer more depth and humanity than those in the lime light. But that's just the opinion of a basicguy.

However, basically speaking, if basic people were thrust into the center of the world's attention, would they remain basic? I would hope so. Some would be tempted and even drawn by the allure of popularity--the world's praise. But I think most would prefer the stardom enjoyed in their little world rather than the world at large.

As for me, I can't think of anyone in the news or in Hollywood or in the political arena that I would rather be--just a basicguy.

A Basic Blab

2007-10-11T19:43:00.001-06:00

Is anyone out there as concerned with the state of things in the good ole USA as I am? I hope I'm not alone. But as I overhear conversations at work, listen to reporters on TV, and read the news, I get the feeling that forces are moving the world I've known in new, but concerning directions. More and more people seem to be embracing things that have always been hands off for me. Sometimes it feels like my world is shrinking around me.

You're probably wondering what I'm blabbing about. I suppose that is what you get from someone with a "basic" education.

Why is it that more and more people are looking for handouts? Would rather play for a living instead of work? Who often cheat their employer? Who hope to sue for wealth instead of saving their money? "It's the easy way or no way"… way more selfish than self-less… thinking only of self instead of the greater good.

I know I shouldn't pick on our congressmen this way (joke). Actually, you would be hard-pressed to find any organization or group of people that weren't severely affected by these influences. And just think, I haven't even scratched the surface of those things that are more concerning than these.

As the world gets uglier by the day, its important to find those who are doing their best to counter-balance the negative. I think I'll watch for examples for a couple of days and report what I find. In the meantime, be good for change. :-)