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ANDS for March 5th, 2016!

ANDS for March 5th, 2016!
Good Saturday Morning from You!
 
AND: It’s more than simply the “better intelligence”.  A culture exists that believes “Technology” can solve/fix anything.  That an “Algorithm” can make better decisions. What’s more, we’ve created an environment that “PC Eggshells” surround our Leaders and influence their timely decision making.

What’s more, these items have helped create Managers, not Leaders. They ‘manage’ data and more data means better management opportunity.  They manage the PC environment with the data to reach an optimally acceptable outcome versus a best outcome.
 
Is it how we fight our WOT….Yes, its how we do most things today.  Sad….
 
AND: Can’t add or subtract a thing.  “The Judas Test”…Haven’t thought of betrayal that way.  This writing is so true.  For me, it is very hard to find the patience and tolerance to overcome betrayal.  So difficult to forgive, and especially to repent of failure to forgive.  I have questioned,  “Why should I suffer for a wrong someone committed against me,” and then I try to justify my resentment and bad attitude.  You’re right.  Learning to forgive in such circumstances is one of the ultimate tests of life.
 
AND:  In Lincoln’s time there was another great conflict going on and then as now, both sides invoked God’s support. Then as now, both sides could not claim God’s intent as their own. Lincoln saw this not as a contradiction but perhaps a revelation. 

      Maybe we have this conflict now to birth a new and greater faith again Mark. 
      
Will of God Prevails”The will of God prevails. In great contests each party claims to act in accordance with the will of God. Both may be, and one must be, wrong. God cannot be for and against the same thing at the same time. In the present civil war it is quite possible that God’s purpose is something different from the purpose of either party – and yet the human instrumentalities, working just as they do, are of the best adaptation to effect His purpose.”
Abraham Lincoln
 
AND: I am the fool…I am overly cautious.  When I lack the wisdom to decide in a situation, I hold back making a decision…because I do not want to make a mistake.  Unfortunately, this becomes such a way of life that I forget I didn’t used to be like this…and I accomplished many things by not holding myself back with caution.
AND:I watched perhaps the last 30 minutes of the debate….maybe more like the last 20 minutes.

The failure of the GOP debates, whether led by Fox or CNN or whoever, is that the monitors decide the questions and topics.  Have any of the monitors in any of the debates asked the questions you are seeking?  I don’t think so.  And why is that?
Its all about money, viewership, ratings for whoever sponsors the event.  Fox doesn’t care who is the candidate…CNN does not care either.  They are in the business of providing a ‘service’ to the public…but the more viewers that service manages to get people to tune in, the more money they make.  So, the “debate” is then morphed by the questions…the questions are morphed away from boring policy and towards confrontation.
Are these debates governed by Roberts Rules?  No.  The debates have been a reality show of sorts…and as long as the candidates and the networks proceed on this vector, the greater the chance the candidate who plays ‘reality show’ best gains ground.  Its the self licking ice cream cone.
The networks are at greatest fault here–but, you have to agree they are in the business of making money, not candidates.  Next I blame the RNC.  Why put your candidates thru a process like this?  No substance. No dignity.  Just air time.  The RNC is showing its ignorance IMO.
AND: One can validate this theory by simply observing the traffic jams around Charlotte daily and the weekly shootings over drug deals.
Stress can create so many health issues.
 
AND:You have to wonder, is it pure coincidence or happenstance that both Rubio and Cruz started pinging Trump on the same day?  Perhaps there was collaboration between the two?  I don’t think so.  Perhaps ‘someone’ from within the RNC got to both Rubio and Cruz and recommended the tactic?  Perhaps, but again I don’t think so.  Maybe, just maybe someone who is fearful of Trump’s success/election approached Rubio and Cruz.  That’s my bet…could be “establishment GOP” (hmm, Cruz approached by establishment?)…could be Lobbyist (Trump is not beholden to Lobbyists) perhaps. But at any rate, you can bet it is someone or some organization that does not want the standard political ROE’s to be changed.

Should we fear Trump?  IDK either.  But, there are some nice things….Business with an eye at the bottom line would be a welcomed change.  Imagine not funding “crap”…imagine spending and getting value.  Do I care if he’s Left or Right?  I don’t think so.
I do think we are at a telling time in America.  Its not a cliff…its simply a fork in the road.  One direction will take us away from our cultural past, the other will bring us back towards our traditional value system.  I don’t think Rubio can do it.  Cruz, perhaps.  Trump, IDK.
 
AND: Interesting. No, not as divided as ever. I would imagine Civil War time was the worst divide. I did hear an interesting tidbit on the radio just this week- and I happen 

to agree with it.  I’m forgetting who said it- I listen to many, wonderful, intelligent conservatives- Rush Limbaugh, Mark Levin, Benjamin Shapiro, Glenn Beck, etc
He said- ten years ago was the most prosperous time n America. Those children were expected to live longer, healthier & more successful lives than their parents. 
He listed several more reasons that I can’t remember now- I listen to a lot of talk radio, I love it. Unless we elect a Christian President who turns our country’s future over to God, I truly am afraid for my grandchildren and the America they will grow up in. I’m praying for God to elect a God-fearing man. 
 
AND: Not necessarily.  The Vietnam war divided this  Nation with the students in the moratorium and Democrat’s Chicago convention  growing
up in Liberal teaching colleges that engrained their progressive beliefs.   Some of the baby boomers of the sixties are now the parents of  narcissistic
children who opt for the non-religious, non-institutional , or unorthodox spirituality, commonly known as hippies in the 60s.  This generational split continues to manifest into today’s culture.   We observed this at the last Democrat convention in Charlotte when God was booed. 
 
AND: I think we as a Nation ignore the real threat vectors out of PC.
 
AND: I agree. I believe all young people need mentors. I have always taught my children to not be too proud to not get help, when they need it. I’ve taught them also to at least listen to advice from smart people & then take with them what sounds like good advice to them, personally. 
 
AND: I know John the Baptist was way way way more than this: He was a good man. He never performed any miracles, but he told me about Christ, which led me to know Him for myself.”

You know brother – it just bugs me when “authors” stretch things.  This is definitely one of those times.  Reminds me of the stupid sermons that happen every non-sabbath.

Kind of like-hey, let’s use John to talk about you.  Works at getting the message to the narcissist.  “How does this apply to you” versus “How do you apply yourself to it”

 
AND:Support for Trump must be much greater than what I estimated.  If not, why the bashing from Rubio and Cruz?  What’s more, the bashing is sophomoric and personal at best.  Cruz goes so far as to insinuate criminal associations.  Really?

This got me to thinking.  In campaigning,  I hope I get to know and understand the candidate.  I hope that what I hear and see reflects the candidate’s true persona.  Of all the candidates–both parties–here is my impression:
+ HRC: a liar, so I expect her to lie.  When she speaks, I hear lies. Tho biased, she is displaying what I expect.
+ Sanders: a strong socialist.  While his message is often softened, I believe what I see is authentic–an unapologetic socialist.
+ Carson: a smart fellow and good man.  His image is consistent
+ Kasich: a politician willing to work with others. Sees compromise as a useful tool in advancing good.
+ Trump: a business man first. Fairly consistent persona.
+ Cruz: a politician willing to change personas depending upon the audience.
+ Rubio: a politician first, willing to change personas and perhaps positions depending upon the audience.
Honestly, the most consistent of this entire group is Sanders and Trump.
Imagine that…
AND: Long ago–back in ’03ish–I learned that you could pay Google for where your link may fall during a search.  Its one way they made money.  So, if you were looking for replacement windows and Googled ‘replacement windows’, the first ‘hit’ may be Pella…then Anderson…then Marvin.  These companies paid for that placement.

Once this was learned, Google suffered a lot of pushback. So they changed their ways, sort of.  Google added a feature–do a search and the top return spots could go to “ads”….meaning, they’d differentiate the search results by placing “ad” markings in front of the first two or three results that were clearly paid for.  What I don’t know is what the priority of results are that follow the “ad” status.
I don’t know how Google decides the priority of information today. I do use Google as my primary search engine.
A few things popped into my head as I was listening to this report yesterday, and again as I read what you sent:
+ I have long suspected a bias in what is presented by Google whether that be political (when searching news) or commercial (when searching products)
+ People lack analytical skills.  People are lazy creatures.  People tend to “go with the flow” and are comfortable taking the path of least resistance.
+ In the marketplace of Information, let the buyer beware.
+ What is Truth
+ Thankful I know Truth
+ While we’d like to think POTUS is just another ordinary guy, trying to do good.  The reality is that it is the world’s most powerful seat and coveted by many.  In that light, no expense nor type of corruption should be underestimated in the pursuit of winning the POTUS election.  Its not just about dead people voting in Chicago or Philadelphia precincts voting 120% for the Democrat…its about the under the table money, the information manipulation, the media control, and yes, the paybacks once elected.  Its ugly…its not wholesome in the least.
I am a registered voter, and I vote.  I am not affiliated with a Party.  I do not answer online surveys nor do I take any telephone surveys.  I do not participate in social media.  I will do whatever I can to not let some pollster label me and put me in a pigeon hole.  Look at Lois Lerner and the IRS to understand why we all need to protect our identities from our government.  It only takes one person in even a limited-power position to bring havoc to your life.

Have a great weekend!

rem – I had no knowledge that I had no knowledge.
Question & Thought & ANDs.

Question & Thought for January 6th, 2016!

Question & Thought for January 6th, 2016!
Good Wednesday Morning Friends!
1. Question – You know what I appreciate about this daily dialog we have about a question and a thought?
2. Thought – You keep me on my toes!
Like yesterday’s – Question – What is worse than a lie? and  – Thought – “An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie.” (Alexander Pope). I missed Monday’s thought because of many excuses I could explain to you but basically I didn’t discipline myself Sunday to put down something of substance for you who take the time to read what I read and think on.
Late Monday night I felt compelled to put something out for Tuesday in regards to a question and a thought. So I found something, without reading much, and put it out to the internet world and you replied. Here are just two of your responses and you taught me a lesson:
  • Disagree…
    But that’s my job 🙂
  • Hey Mark,

    What if the excuse/lie is “white”, i.e., issued in order to keep from hurting the person it is told to?  But then would any of us want to be on the receiving end of such a “white” excuse/lie?  (I know, I hate it when someone answers my question with another question)  I think what Alexander Pope is referring to is offering a rationale for lying.  To my mind, an excuse implies one truly feels that they are excused from lying, for whatever reason.  Here is another question: In the Ten Commandments, is it declared that it is a sin to lie? or is it specifically to not bear false witness against thy neighbor (a fairly specific type of lie)?

    I appreciate your recommendation to read Ecclesiastes.  I have read the summary, started it, but have finished it.  From what I have taken in thus far, it makes an immense amount of sense to me.  I have to admit, that I had a bad habit of using “Cliff Notes” to try and cruise through high school and college literature classes (did not always work).
“Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning.” (Solomon, Ecclesiastes 11:7)
Thanks!
rem – I had no knowledge that I had no knowledge.
Question & Thought & ANDs.

ANDs from you for December 19th, 2015!!!

ANDs from you for December 19th, 2015!!!

Good Saturday ​

​!

AND: ​Amazing what our schools have evolved to, and the scary part is how many of us are aware, What to do, what to do

​AND: ​Hillary Clinton is more trustworthy than all of the other candidates combined.  You can bet your house that she will do everything in her power to take care of herself.

AND: Not certain I have a candidate that I trust more over the others.  I do see candidates that I have no trust in.  There is a difference between mistakes and crimes. Crimes take the longest to forgive…multiple crimes won’t be forgiven.  I am puzzled by the party support for Clinton.  At this juncture, its easier to know who not to trust than who to trust.

AND: Great reaction to the debate.  I didn’t watch it…for much of the reasoning you mention. What are the forces at play–GOP, CNN, Candidates–and how will it move the ball forward in helping me learn and make an educated decision. My answer was to spend my time elsewhere.

I was wrong about our Fed and interest rate movement. I said back in Sept the rate hike wouldn’t happen in 2015 and that the first hike would be an 1/8 point, not a quarter.  Two strikes against me.  The economic data being offered reflects a ‘stronger’ economy and perhaps more promising inflationary environment.  I think the data is a bit misleading…and I very well may be wrong.  Near term, the rate increase could be a good thing for us.  How so? It may provide impetus to act.  Our rates had been flat for so long that those who wanted to borrow had the luxury of waiting and in essence procrastinating regarding any borrowing decision–they could delay the house or car decision because rates would be the same in a month or in a quarter.  The Fed has now provided motivation for some to move.  So I expect to see an uptick in economic activity, near term, with this rate increase.  That’s counter intuitive to a rate increase.

Inflation is nearly flat…gas pump prices continue to fall…our dollar will loose a bit of strength, helping our trade balance…on the margins for the next 6 months things should ‘improve’ a bit. I am not confident that is permanent or stable…but, its also worth the effort to test these waters.

Today I finish another trip around the sun and begin my next.  As we have talked about…so much pain…so much wonder and immeasurable beauty.  I am blessed with loving friends and family.

AND: One of the most terrifying messages you’ve ever sent!

Socialism is a social and economic system characterized by social ownership and democratic control of the means of production, as well as a political theory and movement that aims at the establishment of such a system.

Put another way a kindergarten class is taught:

or in realistic terms:

AND: The “Trinity” as taught to be understood by the church is terribly misleading and has roots in paganism from Constantine on.  In most cases it is taught as 3 separate “persons”…not so much attached.  Resulting in the G-d of the Old Testament is hard and judging while “Jesus” is graceful and merciful.  As if a contradiction or change is possible.  Some early Church writers even taught that the Hebrew scriptures should be thrown out – Marcion – He didn’t like the G-d of the Old Testament.  Also, to outsiders, the Trinity appears polytheistic versus monotheistic.  The Talmud and commentary by later Sages incorporate statements against this theology.  Motivated somewhat to create/maintain a separation from the Christian faith (as persecution after the 3rd Century and onward was quite common).  Jesus, as taught by the church at that time (and some even to this day), was a rebel against the Torah.  And Paul’s writings were so improperly taught – that even if the Jews could see “the suffering Servant” as in the prophets – Paul essentially created a new religion aka “Pauline”.

 

“Triune” is more appropriate.  Which allows previous scripture to be true.  The “Shema” as an example… Deuteronomy 6:4-15English Standard Version (ESV)

4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”

 

There is an element of plurality even as early as in Genesis 1:26, God says, “Let us make man in our image.” “Let us….” Does this mean that there is more than one God? Some say yes. They say that the Hebrew word elohim is a plural noun, showing that there is more than one God. Yet the Hebrew Bible plainly quotes God as saying that there is only one God. “I am God,” he says, “and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:22). God does not say, “we are God.”

 

In light of this mystery, what do I think is most important?  That we understand G-d to be as one in unity in all character and purpose:  Grace, Mercy, Judgment, Teaching, etc.  There can be no contradiction or incongruence.    It is the lens through which to properly see all of scripture.

English Standard Version No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. John 6:44

Just MHO.  What do you think?

AND: More blowback from 0’s oration…many on the Left feel it fell woefully short.  As one (Right) commentator put it, the bar is pretty low if we are optimistic because the president finally admitted this was a terrorist act.  And he’s correct, we have struggled with this president for so long that now when he finally clears a very small hurdle we think its an accomplishment.

The prez’s optics over the past month have been horrific–Turkey, France, Carbon Emissions as a ‘real’ threat, the containment of ISIS–he really is looking like a buffoon to us and to the world.

 

Interesting times.  Your Thought today was spot on…

AND: Common miss teachings of the church:

Faith vs Works:  Misnomer.. works are followed by faith.  One is not pitted against the other.  One must be with the other.

Grace vs Laws:  Misnomer..

Grace is pitted against the condition of sin without  repentance.  Grace versus Legalism (true).  But Grace versus Law (Torah – the teachings of G-d) is a false faith.

Just my thoughts…

Happy 7th day of Hanukkah!

We all need to be like the Maccabees!  Do you know what Maccabee means?  It means “Hammer”.

AND: The answer to the motive behind what is happening in America is to abolish the U.S. Constitution and establish Sharia Law.  The first and second amendments are particularly problematic for achieving the goals of Universal Sharia Law that would rule over the United States of America.  The US happens to be the greatest nation that has ever existed in the history of the world, established as a free nation under God.  The United States was conceived because of first, a great trust in God’s eternal natural law, and second, trust in man to be a person of strong Judaeo/Christian values who would guard the minds and hearts of his posterity by seeing that they were educated on those values and the principles of freedom.   Understanding this concept is necessary in order that the children may be capable of governing themselves and be free..

 

Our great documents of freedom were divinely inspired and designed by men, the Founding Fathers, who provided We the People with the rule of law consisting of The Declaration of Independence that states our belief system, and the Constitution that provides the law designed to protect those beliefs.

 

Tyrants would rule under Sharia Law and there would be no freedom.  The question is…Is America ripe for choosing Islam?  Is America immoral, complacent and void of the strong desire to be good and free?  And if so, has America abandoned God and the will to understand freedom, and the will to fight for it?

 

MY OPINION AND SOLUTION: In order to restore and establish this desire and will among the people, I believe the fight for freedom is here at home.  We believers have a mission to return to God and to pray for the will and strength to follow his counsel and laws.  Because our freedom to choose is His cause, Heavenly Father established our personal freedom as the first commandment which was given in the Garden of Eden to Adam and Eve when they were given freedom to choose whether or not to eat the forbidden fruit.

AND: I would seem to me that economics and philosophy should be taught together.  Is not the reason of the teacher to impart wisdom and most of all the ability to think.  To teach them at the same time would give the student a greater ability to sort the instruction.  Economics as a science is pretty clear, yes I understand that the micro side can be a bit murky in its finest form but I digress.  The problem is when we introduce politics into the mix that confusion reigns. Now people will tell you that you can not separate the two the problem is we don’t separate the two. Philosophy would impart that ever so fine edge of thought the ability to think through the noise.  Once one can discard the noise and understand the meaning of anything true knowledge will come.  So teach them together teach whatever brand of economics you wish and trust the student with the ability not to be distracted by the maybe but understand the why and the interrelation of fact. Clarity is the result and when you are not bound by the irrelevant wisdom in all things is beautiful consequence.

AND: I strongly oppose Common Core and urge you, my representatives, to oppose it as well.  So please ignore the efforts of those who are not your constituents who would urge you to disregard SB812 and the recommendations from the Academic Standards Review Commission. The ASRC represents my ideas on educating North Carolinians.  Please serve me and the diligent efforts of the members of ASRC by upholding their educational standards for North Carolina.

 

 

AND:  The most practical and important thing about a human being is not his or her view of the universe and theory of cosmos – but rather his relationship.  His relationship to the one and only true G-d.  You are not saved by your head knowledge…period!

AND: Interesting reading…very interesting.

I was with the female w/25 years of service, opinion until the very end….interesting that just a few words in a few sentences can change a perspective.

Jesus telling “stories”….”Fiction”…..not certain how to come back to that comment.

Careerist vs Professionals…..was always leery of anyone who claimed one or the other.  How about just “doing the right thing” and maintain your integrity…labels fall short too often.  Others will decide if your action reflect Careerism or Professionalism.

 

Hope your day is bright.  Today I am doing my civic duty….I am on jury standby until 1130…then I call for further instruction.  Retired and pulling Bravo Alert….who’d of thought!

AND: Is there really such a thing as “Secular”?

AND: I watched the Army v Navy game yesterday.  Hard to believe it was 68* in Philly in mid December.  I thought it was a great game…I was so pleased to see Army compete as hard as they did.  In many ways it was their game to lose.  I know Navy was heavily favored, but Army’s performance was impressive.  Their freshman QB is going to be a player IMO.  Navy on the other hand has a fine team…I think they are playing Pitt in a bowl game. Navy’s QB, Reynolds, is a gifted athlete.  Not pro material at the QB position, but perhaps as a special situation player, I dunno.  Second half Navy’s defense kicked some butt. Very aggressive, hard hitting D…loved watching that.  I filled stadium…guess folks still like watching a rivalry….

A comfy 25* outside…our yard is mostly white.  Love it.  Friday we head to the middle of the state to Crested Butte for 5 days of hanging out with the family in the mtns.  I’m excited.  As you know, its always special when you get to hang with your (adult) boys…its just a different relationship, different time.  Their questions are different, their attitudes are different…its just neat sharing time with them.

 

I’m gonna have to get Cinderella Man….I remember when it first came out and I wanted to see it.  I’m pretty slow on those things so it left before we got a chance to see it.  I’ll rent it and watch tho.

 

Enjoy your Sunday my friend.  Lots to think over in today’s Thought…you know, at troubled as our country is, as troubled as the ME is, and as troubled as the world is, I still can find peace in my heart.

AND: Good friend died last night, age 60. Feeling melancholy, questioning all the things we do.

AND: Taking a “day off” today…heading to the mtns for a day of fishing.

I cringe when politicians talk about our rich and that they must shoulder more of the country’s fiscal burden.  Or when they talk about poverty, welfare and social support programs.  As a country we have divided perceptions on these issues.  I do not believe the govt should be defining ‘rich’.  We have a progressive tax system–and that’s okay, I doubt any tax structure is perfect or acceptable to all people.  Our tax system tho is too complicated for the vast majority of Americans to fully understand…it needn’t be that way.  I would love to see a simplified tax code that achieved the goal of more Americans paying into the system.  I believe we need more skin in the game!

AND: Your next house needs this:

AND: Mark,I ran across this on PC:

The following is the winning entry in an annual contest at Texas A&M University calling for the most appropriate definition of a contemporary term. This year’s term was “Political Correctness.”

The winner wrote:

“Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional illogical minority and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end…”

 

AND: Baruch HaShem!  7 years ago, G-d started scraping the scales off of my eyes and placed an earnest spirit within me to study the word and a confidence to question those I looked up to and also what I thought I knew.  He put some great people and teachers around me.  It began a wild ride that has not stopped!  I shared with many – some were ready too – others not so much.  Some friendships faded and others came or were strengthened.  Early on we were still feeling quite alone (even though there were others on the same walk) in the midst of the greater believing community.  However, G-d has done the same thing in so many others now and the pace for their growth is far quicker now than our experience.  We no longer feel alone.  It amazes me every day.

 

It sounds as though you are on the ride.  I know you will be blessed daily…for I was and am!

AND: Again, I’m so thankful for my knowledge of the Plan of Salvation or Plan of Happiness, that we (all of us) lived with Heavenly Father prior to earth life.  We chose freedom then.  Earth life with its trials and temptations is designed to prove us still.  It is a test to see if we will choose God’s plan or Satan’s desire to make us all equal.  The war in heaven was fought over freedom vs tyranny.

AND: I believe it was the Greeks who first brought about the practice of removing the children from the home.  You can conquer nations without firing a bullet…if you can get to the children.

Another note.  I don’t know if you have ever really studied Kohelet (Ecclesiastes)…it is a “circular” type book…Very interesting.  One of those books that can appear contradictory through a limited glance without knowing the greater part of the book.

AND: Yeah…you are right.

Your post is very true – about trust.  I have witnessed (and G-d forbid if/when I have been guilty) leaders who it was about the only thing about them you could trust – them looking out for number one first…and then all other things come second.

 

rem – I had no knowledge that I had no knowledge.

Question & Thought & ANDs.

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Question & Thought & AND for September 16th, 2015!!!

Question & Thought & AND for September 16th, 2015!!!
Good Wednesday Morning!
1. Question – Iran & nukes – Done deal or not? I think the President just smiles sometimes.
2. Thought – Congress is now debating the Vienna agreement on Iran’s nuclear-weapons program, but we already know the outcome. A bipartisan House majority has or will shortly reject the deal, as will the Senate if it can overcome a Democratic filibuster. If the two houses act in sync, and if a resolution of disapproval reaches President Obama’s desk, he will veto it. Congress will not muster the constitutionally required two-thirds majority to override.
The grim reality, therefore, is that Obama will prevail. His Iran agreement will be implemented, with grave risks for the Middle East (ME) and the world, despite majorities in Congress and most public opinion polls rejecting it. Accordingly, opponents must immediately begin laying the foundations to abrogate the deal immediately upon the next president’s inauguration. (Scuttling a done deal on Iran by John Bolton from Pittsburgh Tribune Review, September 13, 2015)
AND – from me: So here we go…another ‘debate’ between leaders who desire to be the POTUS. Isn’t it strange that America has allowed the media to have such an impact on candidates for the presidency? I remember in the ‘ol days,’ and the hype before the Frazier and Ali or Foreman fights. How America couldn’t wait to see someone beat another. Competition at its best! Throw in all the rhetoric before the fight and we were just thrilled with anticipation. When I watch FOX and CNN and hear their talking heads speaking about today’s debate – it saddens me. We seem to be so enthused at putting another man or woman down from the same party. (“Who’s going to have the #1 sound-bite?”) I prefer FOX, but they are all the same. These talking heads are just too thrilled about the duel coming up between potential leaders of the free world. It is not entertainment we are talking about for crying out loud. The world’s pretty messed up. The U.S. is too. And this position of the POTUS seems to have taken on a Hollywood entertainment venue, without respect for what it is really about, and our kids are watching and Rome is crumbling.
AND:  Yesterday was a weird day for me…I doubt I’ll ever feel 100% on 9/11 ever again.  My kids will; but I doubt I will.  13 yrs ago I learned of a high school friend whose birthday is 9/11.  This is my one bright spot on that day, I send an email wishing her a happy birthday.

Watched a couple 9/11 specials last night.  I still shed a tear when I think of the twin towers falling, the heroes of flight 93, and the pentagon.  I will always wonder if we could have done more.
We’ve had two POTUS in office since 2001 and each took an almost opposite stance in opposing this Islamic movement.  Bush choose war; 0 choose withdrawal–almost isolationism.  If success is measured as the retreat of the Islamic movement, neither has worked. War seemed to have slowed the progress; but left unchecked, the Islamic movement grows at a more rapid pace.  The Arab Spring only seemed to have resulted in the advance of militant Islam across northern Africa.
A fair question is What’s the Plan?  It appears the US is willing to let the ME sort out its own issues.  For the most part, we are empowering Iran and thus must be content with the concept of Iran being the ME bully in the short term.  Likewise, we must also be content with the concept of several ME nations gaining nuclear capabilities.  The Iran deal will do one thing and do it well–it will secure the future of nuclear proliferation in the region. In the absence of any tangible world leadership, this outcome is certain.
But simultaneous to this growth in nuclear weaponry will be the exodus of people from the ME.  Christians, Jews and Muslims will leave the region by the droves.  Immediate destinations will be, in essence, anywhere and everywhere.  But make no mistake, the final destination will be the United States. For while our current world image may be tarnished, we are still the brightest image of Freedom and Equality for the world. How will be deal with the mass migration that is eminently upon us?
I am not a strong advocate for diversity.  I readily admit that diversity and equal opportunity (culturally) has its place, but Performance still matters.  If we are to forego Performance for the sake of diversity then we must be willing to accept Average rather than Excellence.  You do not build strong organizations or strong nations on the back of Average.
So, What is the Plan?  What is being communicated from the Oval Office? From Congress? From our Judicial branch?  Who exactly is looking out for you and your family’s best interest? What do you envision and desire your children’s future to look like?  If you can answer these questions then perhaps you can understand the importance of an election and an educated vote.
​“Q​: And if the current situation is allowed to continue? A: The very definition of tyranny, according to Madison, is the accumulation of all power in one hand.” (Matthew Spaulding)

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rem – know the why or lose the way! 
Question & Thought & ANDs.