A thought about fear of flying. I don’t have it. I have a growing dislike because of TSA and a continued reduction in size of the seats, but I have no fear. I do, however, know a couple of people who have that fear.
I don’t understand it but I know it is real. They generally deal with it by not flying. I have one friends who just will not get on an airplane but she still manages to get to family get togethers and go on vacation. How does she do it? Amtrak. It takes her a long time to get there but get there she does. She did fly to Hawaii about 10 years ago because it was an important family event but she left fingernail marks on the armrests and her screams still echo in the jet stream. She brings real meaning to the expression, “Never again!”
The other used to be a globe trotter. She literally traveled around the world. She did things like back packing in the Himalayas as a single woman. Now she is afraid to drive across town and almost panics when she has to fly. She does fly on occasion but only when there is no choice.
That is how you deal with fear of flying. You don’t use it as an excuse to avoid something you don’t want to do. Unless you are a Democrat trying to derail the Republic.
November is coming. Your part in draining the swamp is to vote against the critters.
homo unius libri
Sunday, September 30, 2018
Saturday, September 29, 2018
Opus 2018-235: No Shame
One of the great things about no longer living is the People’s Republik of Kalifornia is that I no longer have to say that Diane Feinstien and Kamala Harris are my senators. You have no idea how embarrassing that was. Actually you probably do. Watching them at the hearing about Christine Blasey Ford’s accusations made me want to scream at the TV set while I danced in joy that I am now in Texas.
This whole thing was set up by Diane Feinstein with the willing cooperation of the Democrats on the committee. Ford was wrong in thinking she could make such accusations without getting involved. That is a common thing in public education. Anonymous tip lines are the thing so I can cut her some slack. She probably never had a teacher that had read the part of the Constitution that gives the accused the right to face their accuser. In spite of that the entire thing could have been dealt with and not ruined the lives of two families.
The Democrats have no shame.
And did you notice how they kept trying to get Judge Kavanaugh to defend himself by dragging someone else through the mud. They kept referring to the testimony of one of his room mates in college. The judge kept reminding them that the issue had been dealt with in private session with the understanding it would be kept confidential. That didn’t stop them.
The Democrats have no shame.
November is coming.
homo unius libri
This whole thing was set up by Diane Feinstein with the willing cooperation of the Democrats on the committee. Ford was wrong in thinking she could make such accusations without getting involved. That is a common thing in public education. Anonymous tip lines are the thing so I can cut her some slack. She probably never had a teacher that had read the part of the Constitution that gives the accused the right to face their accuser. In spite of that the entire thing could have been dealt with and not ruined the lives of two families.
The Democrats have no shame.
And did you notice how they kept trying to get Judge Kavanaugh to defend himself by dragging someone else through the mud. They kept referring to the testimony of one of his room mates in college. The judge kept reminding them that the issue had been dealt with in private session with the understanding it would be kept confidential. That didn’t stop them.
The Democrats have no shame.
November is coming.
homo unius libri
Friday, September 28, 2018
Opus 2018-234: Little Details
I missed it. I was too angry at the gotcha question that Senator Booker kept repeating. A “gotcha question” is one that goes like this: Have you stopped beating your wife? Just give me a “yes” or “no” answer. In this case most of us can see the trap. I guess Booker and the other Democrats who kept asking their version of Have You Stopped Beating Your Wife thought that the judge was as limited as they were and would not see it.
I picked it up in an article at Chicks on the Right. They looked at Booker’s question and focused on a two word phase: her truth. I don’t know if it hits you right away but this sums up the difference between the rule of law and the rule of despots.
Our country’s founding fathers had a lot of differences but the vast majority of them had a mind set based in Judeo-Christian thinking that says there is objective truth. All things are not relative. There may be disagreement on what that truth is. There may be solutions that can not grasp the whole truth. We may not understand it, but there is truth.
The Democrats (Socialists, Communists, leftists, elites, Rinos, Progressives, Liberals) on the committee reject that position and it was demonstrated by Cory Booker’s statement. He was basically saying that even if the alleged attack never took place, to her it did and that made it “truth”. Even if it was a lie, it was truth. That sounds very sensitive and touchy feely. If you are trying to decide who gets the biggest slice of pie for desert it is no big deal but if you are responsible to pass laws and enforce them it is chilling to civilized behavior.
What is does is allow you to have a living Constitution. That means that the law can mean anything that the latest judge wants it to mean. The world is their oyster and we are the sand that they get to make their pearls with. It means that any woman can accuse any man of anything at anytime and he is guilty. It means that any non-white can accuse any white of anything at any time and that they are guilty. You can rewrite that statement any way you want. Fill in your own nouns. What it means that we all walk in fear because we don’t know what will set someone off. It could be anything as silly as the color of your sox to the look on your face.
No, Senator Booker, it was not “her truth”. It might be her belief. It could be her opinion. It could be all kinds of things but it is either true or not.
Liberty is based on such small details. Stay awake. We have an election coming. If you want people of good character to refuse to seek public office then by all means vote for a Democrat.
homo unius libri
I picked it up in an article at Chicks on the Right. They looked at Booker’s question and focused on a two word phase: her truth. I don’t know if it hits you right away but this sums up the difference between the rule of law and the rule of despots.
Our country’s founding fathers had a lot of differences but the vast majority of them had a mind set based in Judeo-Christian thinking that says there is objective truth. All things are not relative. There may be disagreement on what that truth is. There may be solutions that can not grasp the whole truth. We may not understand it, but there is truth.
The Democrats (Socialists, Communists, leftists, elites, Rinos, Progressives, Liberals) on the committee reject that position and it was demonstrated by Cory Booker’s statement. He was basically saying that even if the alleged attack never took place, to her it did and that made it “truth”. Even if it was a lie, it was truth. That sounds very sensitive and touchy feely. If you are trying to decide who gets the biggest slice of pie for desert it is no big deal but if you are responsible to pass laws and enforce them it is chilling to civilized behavior.
What is does is allow you to have a living Constitution. That means that the law can mean anything that the latest judge wants it to mean. The world is their oyster and we are the sand that they get to make their pearls with. It means that any woman can accuse any man of anything at anytime and he is guilty. It means that any non-white can accuse any white of anything at any time and that they are guilty. You can rewrite that statement any way you want. Fill in your own nouns. What it means that we all walk in fear because we don’t know what will set someone off. It could be anything as silly as the color of your sox to the look on your face.
No, Senator Booker, it was not “her truth”. It might be her belief. It could be her opinion. It could be all kinds of things but it is either true or not.
Liberty is based on such small details. Stay awake. We have an election coming. If you want people of good character to refuse to seek public office then by all means vote for a Democrat.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-233: What Is at Stake
After what I hope is the final Kavanaugh hearing not much has changed.
Ford had her say. She may or may not believe what she claimed. She was definitely used as a pawn by the Democrats. Kavanaugh could not say it because it would make him look mean, but the rest of us can. We may never know if she was a willing dupe or had a sincere sense of duty. I think we all believe that legitimate claims of sexual crimes need to be reported. How much they are considered and acted on depends on something called “due process”.
And that is what the next step is all about.
Two important questions: Will there be a long postponed vote? Will Judge Kavanaugh be confirmed? There needs to be on resounding answer: Yes.
The issue is not whether the judge is qualified. Everyone agrees that he is. The issue is not even whether the accusation is true. As offensive as the alleged act was it was not rape or even close to rape. It was 35 years ago and even if true has not demonstrated a pattern in his life. The issue is not the judge.
The issue is the rule of law. That involves following due process and everyone playing by the same rules. The Democrats have developed a strategy that has worked for them many times. I think most of us look back to the disgusting attacks on Judge Borke. It was successful. We saw it used against Clarence Thomas. It failed. It was used against Judge Moore. It was successful. We could continue with other names but the key issue is that it must stop.
Why is it important? Because the left, whether it be the Communist party or your local Democrat leftist, never gives up or stops. They keep coming back and wear the law-abiding people of good will down. We keep thinking they will give up and go away or be satisfied. It will not happen. They will keep chipping away at our liberty until the last dust of freedom has settled. The real danger is that they will win because we decide to use their tactics.
The big difference between the right and the left is not that we are pure and they are not. The big difference is that we realize we are not perfect and rely on rules that have been legitimately agreed on and expect everyone to follow them. We realize they are not the final word but also realize because we are not perfect we need to guard the process and keep the ground as level as possible. It is why we have a Constitution and a process to amend it.
So I hope that congress will strike a blow for liberty. Judge Kavanaugh may not be the best choice but to reject him at this point will only fuel the fire of rule by fiat instead of law.
homo unius libri
Ford had her say. She may or may not believe what she claimed. She was definitely used as a pawn by the Democrats. Kavanaugh could not say it because it would make him look mean, but the rest of us can. We may never know if she was a willing dupe or had a sincere sense of duty. I think we all believe that legitimate claims of sexual crimes need to be reported. How much they are considered and acted on depends on something called “due process”.
And that is what the next step is all about.
Two important questions: Will there be a long postponed vote? Will Judge Kavanaugh be confirmed? There needs to be on resounding answer: Yes.
The issue is not whether the judge is qualified. Everyone agrees that he is. The issue is not even whether the accusation is true. As offensive as the alleged act was it was not rape or even close to rape. It was 35 years ago and even if true has not demonstrated a pattern in his life. The issue is not the judge.
The issue is the rule of law. That involves following due process and everyone playing by the same rules. The Democrats have developed a strategy that has worked for them many times. I think most of us look back to the disgusting attacks on Judge Borke. It was successful. We saw it used against Clarence Thomas. It failed. It was used against Judge Moore. It was successful. We could continue with other names but the key issue is that it must stop.
Why is it important? Because the left, whether it be the Communist party or your local Democrat leftist, never gives up or stops. They keep coming back and wear the law-abiding people of good will down. We keep thinking they will give up and go away or be satisfied. It will not happen. They will keep chipping away at our liberty until the last dust of freedom has settled. The real danger is that they will win because we decide to use their tactics.
The big difference between the right and the left is not that we are pure and they are not. The big difference is that we realize we are not perfect and rely on rules that have been legitimately agreed on and expect everyone to follow them. We realize they are not the final word but also realize because we are not perfect we need to guard the process and keep the ground as level as possible. It is why we have a Constitution and a process to amend it.
So I hope that congress will strike a blow for liberty. Judge Kavanaugh may not be the best choice but to reject him at this point will only fuel the fire of rule by fiat instead of law.
homo unius libri
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Opus 2018-232: Political Antics Get Started
I thought I would try to listen to a bit of the hearing today. I am already bored with the opening propaganda screed by Diane Feinstein. I think the reason that she is going on is to bore people who will then tune out before anything important is actually addressed.
I may be one of those.
homo unius libri
I may be one of those.
homo unius libri
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Opus 2018-231: Baby Talk: Baby Pride
Have you noticed that babies really don’t care about the fancy do-dads on their outfits? I noticed this as I was changing a diaper. In order to change one you need to get the child out of all the cute stuff and find the working material. This involves snaps and zippers, possibly velcro. Since most of the costumes we are using are passed down from previous generations I don’t see much velcro.
The grown women of my life always know when I changed the last diaper. It isn’t that I get it on backwards. The give away is that I don’t bother with all the snaps. I figure the kid doesn’t care or know she is supposed to care. You can’t say that about mom and grandma. So far it has not caused me to be banned from diaper changing but I can keep hoping.
Adults are just the opposite. Maybe I should say men are just the opposite. No one else really cares if their nail polish matches their hair bow. At least I can speak for the men out there. Guys, when was the last time you noticed that a waitress had fingernail polish that matched a pin she was wearing? My wife did and asked about it.
How often have you had a wife say, “That shirt doesn’t match those pants”? Does it bother you at all to learn that little tidbit. Or have you heard her say, “You look good in that color”? Does it make you run out and rebuild your wardrobe? I thought not.
Think about the words of Jesus,
homo unius libri
The grown women of my life always know when I changed the last diaper. It isn’t that I get it on backwards. The give away is that I don’t bother with all the snaps. I figure the kid doesn’t care or know she is supposed to care. You can’t say that about mom and grandma. So far it has not caused me to be banned from diaper changing but I can keep hoping.
Adults are just the opposite. Maybe I should say men are just the opposite. No one else really cares if their nail polish matches their hair bow. At least I can speak for the men out there. Guys, when was the last time you noticed that a waitress had fingernail polish that matched a pin she was wearing? My wife did and asked about it.
How often have you had a wife say, “That shirt doesn’t match those pants”? Does it bother you at all to learn that little tidbit. Or have you heard her say, “You look good in that color”? Does it make you run out and rebuild your wardrobe? I thought not.
Think about the words of Jesus,
(Matthew 18:3 KJV) And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.Babies are full of philosophical wisdom.
homo unius libri
Monday, September 24, 2018
Opus 2018-230: Good Faith, Bad Faith
One of the major differences between today’s Democrats and Republicans is that the Republicans still have a residue of respect for truth and belief that the end does not justify the means. I say “residue” because it does not apply to all Republicans and the quantity of integrity varies with the individual. The current character assassination of Bret Kavanaugh is just one example that stretches back for years.
The difference goes down to a basic philosophy of life. I often add to the title of Democrat a list of other titles that apply (Liberal, Communist, Socialist, elites, leftist, progressives, RINO). They all base their values and priorities on a rejection of basic Judeo-Christian ideas about morality and truth. This came to mind when I was looking over some notes on a book. The author references Ronald Reagan.
We need to assume that no Democrat (Liberal, Communist, Socialist, elites, leftist, progressives, RINO) is speaking in good faith. I am willing, intellectually, to admit there might be exceptions but I am still waiting to be surprised.
Remember, they lie. It is their nature.
Mead, Walter Russell. God and Gold. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2007.
homo unius libri
The difference goes down to a basic philosophy of life. I often add to the title of Democrat a list of other titles that apply (Liberal, Communist, Socialist, elites, leftist, progressives, RINO). They all base their values and priorities on a rejection of basic Judeo-Christian ideas about morality and truth. This came to mind when I was looking over some notes on a book. The author references Ronald Reagan.
“Communists according to Reagan ‘...had a philosophical stance that expressly made it impossible to assume their good faith.’” p. 22Believing Jews and real Christians base their behavior and choices on an awareness that there is a thing called truth and it does not change because you want it to. Modern New Agers, like so many of their predecessors, believe that the truth is whatever advances your cause and it can change in a heartbeat. We see this dichotomy in the #Metoo movement that ignores accusations against Keith Ellison and jumps on every rumor about Brett Kavanaugh. We see it in believing stories 35 years old by a Trump hater but rejecting any accusations against Bill Clinton. They have a double standard that cannot be trusted.
We need to assume that no Democrat (Liberal, Communist, Socialist, elites, leftist, progressives, RINO) is speaking in good faith. I am willing, intellectually, to admit there might be exceptions but I am still waiting to be surprised.
Remember, they lie. It is their nature.
Mead, Walter Russell. God and Gold. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2007.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-231: The Most Important Election
I have been hearing a lot about how this election is the most important in our lifetime. I have heard it on the radio, read it on the internet and was reminded again today. This sounds serious. This is true.
It is always true.
It doesn’t take long to give up the liberty that we have grown so complacent about. Think about elections. Where would we be if the polls had been right about Ronald Reagan being elected? Where would we be if Jimmy “malaise” Carter had been reelected? How much worse would things be if Kerry or Gore had prevailed? Can you picture the Supreme Court today if Hillary had won?
Ronald Reagan took a bit longer view but the sentiment was the same.
homo unius libri
It is always true.
It doesn’t take long to give up the liberty that we have grown so complacent about. Think about elections. Where would we be if the polls had been right about Ronald Reagan being elected? Where would we be if Jimmy “malaise” Carter had been reelected? How much worse would things be if Kerry or Gore had prevailed? Can you picture the Supreme Court today if Hillary had won?
Ronald Reagan took a bit longer view but the sentiment was the same.
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”Is this election vital? Yes, just like the last one and the next one. If getting excited by quotes like this gets you out to vote if it is a rainy day, well and good. Remember the issues. Think about what is at stake.
homo unius libri
Sunday, September 23, 2018
Opus 2018-229: Latest Conspiracy Theories
My wife keeps me posted on the latest hot news. Let me share the last two submissions.
Obama was raised by the CIA in a Deep State plot to overthrow the United States. While I would admit that his actions would fit such a scenario I don’t think we need to go that far.
Obama issued secret pardons to all of the people that are trying to bring down President Trump. They already have them in their pockets so they have nothing to fear.
I will let you decide if this will change the flavor of ice cream you buy today.
homo unius libri
Obama was raised by the CIA in a Deep State plot to overthrow the United States. While I would admit that his actions would fit such a scenario I don’t think we need to go that far.
Obama issued secret pardons to all of the people that are trying to bring down President Trump. They already have them in their pockets so they have nothing to fear.
I will let you decide if this will change the flavor of ice cream you buy today.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-228: Digging into Deuteronomy: Idle Worship and Idol Worship
(Deuteronomy 4:23 KJV) Take heed unto yourselves, lest ye forget the covenant of the LORD your God, which he made with you, and make you a graven image, or the likeness of any thing, which the LORD thy God hath forbidden thee.
Most people have heard of the Ten Commandments. I doubt if there are many who could list all ten. If you are curious you can find them at Exodus 20:3-17. I don’t know if the last six are listed by priorities but it is clear that the first are most important. Actually they are a package deal and in spite of what you have heard, they can be obeyed. The problem is no one wants to obey. If we look at modern entertainment we find that most of them are violated on a regular basis.
The second commandment is being referred to here.
For example take the commandment that says,
I think the point of violation will be different for each of us. It may be subtle. It will have eternal results. Keep in mind that God will not be mocked.
homo unius libri
Most people have heard of the Ten Commandments. I doubt if there are many who could list all ten. If you are curious you can find them at Exodus 20:3-17. I don’t know if the last six are listed by priorities but it is clear that the first are most important. Actually they are a package deal and in spite of what you have heard, they can be obeyed. The problem is no one wants to obey. If we look at modern entertainment we find that most of them are violated on a regular basis.
The second commandment is being referred to here.
(Exodus 20:4-6 KJV) Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.Most of us today would not think of actually building an idol and putting it in a special room to worship. We are to modern for such foolishness. Who wants a golden calf or a statue of pan in their living room? This points out that idolatry can take many forms. An idol is anything that we give a place to in our lives that represents anything that God has commanded us to avoid.
For example take the commandment that says,
(Exodus 20:8 KJV) Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.How many regular habits do we have that occupy our day of rest? You might have a garage full of lawn equipment and feel that Sunday is the only day you have to mow the yard. You may feel like you have a need for a game of golf or other sport activity. Maybe you honor the sabbath by eating out and making others do the work you are avoiding. Those appropriate activities become idols because they get in the way of putting God first.
I think the point of violation will be different for each of us. It may be subtle. It will have eternal results. Keep in mind that God will not be mocked.
homo unius libri
Saturday, September 22, 2018
Opus 2018-227: The Art of Life
As I was perusing the notes I had taken while reading Marcus Aurelius, I came across this line,
A dancer can be a loner and doing their own thing. If they have a partner they are working together. Ultimately they are really competing against themselves. A dancer is involved in an work of art. In addition to the strength and endurance of a wrestler they also have elements of interpretation and creativity.
Few of us has the gifts to produce a great work of art. We can celebrate those who do. The rest of us should be able to take some satisfaction in putting a half Nelson, whatever that is, on the next crisis that dares to look us in the eye. A perfect cup of coffee is a rare treat to be savored but on a day-to-day basis most of us will have to be content with a cup of everyday Joe.
Aurelius, Marcus. The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, from the Harvard
Classics, Vol 2. New York: P.F. Collier & Son Corporation, 1937.
homo unius libri
“The art of life is more like the wrestler’s than the dancer’s...” page 251I find I can identify with that. Wrestlers and dancers both use a lot of energy but have totally different experiences. A wrestler gets down and dirty. A wrestler always is involved with someone else and responds to what they do. A wrestler is defeated by someone else. I tried wrestling once in college and one day put me in bed for two.
A dancer can be a loner and doing their own thing. If they have a partner they are working together. Ultimately they are really competing against themselves. A dancer is involved in an work of art. In addition to the strength and endurance of a wrestler they also have elements of interpretation and creativity.
Few of us has the gifts to produce a great work of art. We can celebrate those who do. The rest of us should be able to take some satisfaction in putting a half Nelson, whatever that is, on the next crisis that dares to look us in the eye. A perfect cup of coffee is a rare treat to be savored but on a day-to-day basis most of us will have to be content with a cup of everyday Joe.
Aurelius, Marcus. The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, from the Harvard
Classics, Vol 2. New York: P.F. Collier & Son Corporation, 1937.
homo unius libri
Friday, September 21, 2018
Opus 2018-226: The Crime of Loophole
We have a genre of laws which add extra penalties for killing a police officer. We seem to feel that labeling something a “hate crime” adds to the seriousness. I think it may be time to do the same thing for politicians. We could call them Loophole Crimes.
We need a law adding special penalties to people in positions of power who manipulate the political process. This would need to isolate elected officials as well as appointed positions. Thus it could even be applied to judges who ignore the law in order to advance their personal agendas.
This should apply even if specific laws were danced around. We know that loopholes are bigger in the laws effecting the rich and powerful than they are in purchasing firearms. At the present time congress seems to exempt themselves from the laws they lay on the rest of us. Since cop killers seem to get special treatment maybe Constitution killers deserve the same fate. We also should follow the money and confiscate all of the wealth that they and their families have gathered as they were lined up at the public pork trough.
Since this would need to be written and passed by politicians I won’t be holding my breath.
homo unius libri
We need a law adding special penalties to people in positions of power who manipulate the political process. This would need to isolate elected officials as well as appointed positions. Thus it could even be applied to judges who ignore the law in order to advance their personal agendas.
This should apply even if specific laws were danced around. We know that loopholes are bigger in the laws effecting the rich and powerful than they are in purchasing firearms. At the present time congress seems to exempt themselves from the laws they lay on the rest of us. Since cop killers seem to get special treatment maybe Constitution killers deserve the same fate. We also should follow the money and confiscate all of the wealth that they and their families have gathered as they were lined up at the public pork trough.
Since this would need to be written and passed by politicians I won’t be holding my breath.
homo unius libri
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Opus 2018-225: Election 2018: Consider the Source
I have no intention to have anything to do with the current product of the porn star who has been trying to make money off Donald Trump for months now. It is impossible to avoid other people’s fascination with what she has to say.
But I notice a parallel.
She is trashing the president on one level while Hillary is out on the game shows trying for the prize by trashing him on another level. Did I say, “game shows”? I meant news programs. Actually, no I didn’t. Her motivation is the same as the porn star and I would imagine her credibility is even worse.
What does it say that a former president is also out trying to trash the president?
November is coming. Make your opinion of all this be felt. Are you going to take the offerings of three over the hill losers or are you going to look at the economy, judges nominated, international progress, etc. I know how that Democrat next door will vote. The question is how will all of you that know the difference between to, too and two.
homo unius libri
But I notice a parallel.
She is trashing the president on one level while Hillary is out on the game shows trying for the prize by trashing him on another level. Did I say, “game shows”? I meant news programs. Actually, no I didn’t. Her motivation is the same as the porn star and I would imagine her credibility is even worse.
What does it say that a former president is also out trying to trash the president?
November is coming. Make your opinion of all this be felt. Are you going to take the offerings of three over the hill losers or are you going to look at the economy, judges nominated, international progress, etc. I know how that Democrat next door will vote. The question is how will all of you that know the difference between to, too and two.
homo unius libri
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Opus 2018-224: Moore Please
I keep wondering why no one brings up the name of Judge Roy Moore. The parallels are there. The victory for the Democrat smear machine was overwhelming. It is happening again.
I hear about Clarence Thomas. That was the peak of Democratic arrogance. He was man enough to persevere. Borke was chewed up and spit out by the same Democratic machine and Democratic party-over-country approach to politics. Eric Estrada didn’t even get this far.
I thought that Donald Trump’s example might help the Republicans grow some backbone. The jury is still out but it isn’t looking good.
homo unius libri
I hear about Clarence Thomas. That was the peak of Democratic arrogance. He was man enough to persevere. Borke was chewed up and spit out by the same Democratic machine and Democratic party-over-country approach to politics. Eric Estrada didn’t even get this far.
I thought that Donald Trump’s example might help the Republicans grow some backbone. The jury is still out but it isn’t looking good.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-223: Election 2018: The Blue Wave Oversleeps
I first heard the news on the radio that woke me up this morning and later found it on My San Antonio. A “political newcomer” named Pete Flores won a special election for the Texas state senate. The loser was a known name in both state and federal government. Here is the corker: This is the first time the seat has ever gone to a Republican and the records go back 139 years. This is a blue wave I can learn to like.
The radio also reported that Cruz now had a nine point lead in the polls. Of course I don’t know which polls and how reliable they were but this certainly goes against the narrative we are hearing in the Main Stream Media (DNC Talking Points Media).
Feel free to read the article and gloat. Since I don’t listen to the left wing news sources I don’t know if they are reporting this.
homo unius libri
The radio also reported that Cruz now had a nine point lead in the polls. Of course I don’t know which polls and how reliable they were but this certainly goes against the narrative we are hearing in the Main Stream Media (DNC Talking Points Media).
Feel free to read the article and gloat. Since I don’t listen to the left wing news sources I don’t know if they are reporting this.
homo unius libri
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Opus 2018-222: Election 2018: The Catholic Hierarchy Are Democrats
I understand that most bishops, archbishops and cardinals are not American so the tie to the Democratic party is purely symbolic. But consider what we have seen seeing recently. They are getting caught. There doesn’t seem to be much question about that. The juries are not only out but never met but the Catholics I have talked with believe there is no doubt.
So how do they respond? Like Democrats.
They are doubling down and running for re-election. Molesting little boys? We will pay them off and move you to a new location. Involved in homosexuality? We will promote you and give you more power.
Republicans also get caught. Depravity and criminal behavior know no political party. The difference is that the Republicans have the courtesy to step down. If they don’t then the party moves in to make it happen.
Someone once said that Republicans may not be the solution but Democrats are the problem.
Remember that when you vote in November.
homo unius libri
So how do they respond? Like Democrats.
They are doubling down and running for re-election. Molesting little boys? We will pay them off and move you to a new location. Involved in homosexuality? We will promote you and give you more power.
Republicans also get caught. Depravity and criminal behavior know no political party. The difference is that the Republicans have the courtesy to step down. If they don’t then the party moves in to make it happen.
Someone once said that Republicans may not be the solution but Democrats are the problem.
Remember that when you vote in November.
homo unius libri
Monday, September 17, 2018
Opus 2018-221: Amazing Teachers
I make frequent reference to the low level of modern teachers on the intellectual and knowledge scales. At least I do so in my conversations. It always amazes me the respect that some people have for teachers. In selected cases it might be deserved but usually not. Borepatch has a post that gives some specific examples of the ignorance of your typical young teacher.
We home schooled. Our children never darkened the doorway of a school until they visited me when I was teaching in the public schools. We started the home schooling before I went into education. At the time we were not aware of the general ignorance of teachers. Our reasoning had to do more with the philosophical problems in public education. Our decision has been repeatedly reinforced.
You might want to bookmark that post and refer to it any time someone starts their mantra about how underpaid teachers are. Many of them deserve to be paid even less.
homo unius libri
We home schooled. Our children never darkened the doorway of a school until they visited me when I was teaching in the public schools. We started the home schooling before I went into education. At the time we were not aware of the general ignorance of teachers. Our reasoning had to do more with the philosophical problems in public education. Our decision has been repeatedly reinforced.
You might want to bookmark that post and refer to it any time someone starts their mantra about how underpaid teachers are. Many of them deserve to be paid even less.
homo unius libri
Sunday, September 16, 2018
Opus 2018-220: Blessed Vision
Why has God allowed me to be so blessed?
Ultimately it is unanswerable. God is sovereign. He does not operate by my standards or have a need to justify anything to me. I still wonder how He chooses and why He blesses. I think there is often an element of cause and effect.
By that I do not mean vending machine cause and effect. God will not be manipulated. It is never a matter of jumping through a hoop and getting a prize. Instant gratification makes us puppies doing tricks for treats. God is bigger than that and wants more for us than that. But I still feel that our behavior and willingness to obey results in something.
Maybe it is more a matter of vectors and “unintended” consequences. If you remember your math a vector is an angle of variation from a straight line. Airplanes are constantly figuring vectores because winds push them to the side and they have to figure a new angle to arrive at the target destination. A small variation does not make much difference over a few feet but over a thousand miles you can end up far from where you are supposed to be.
Consider that in life. Two people start off the same heading for the same goal. One varies a little and the other doesn’t. In the short term it doesn’t seem to make any difference but over a lifetime it can be dramatic.
It is also possible that some are more open to see their blessings. Recently, while back east we went to a place called Friendly’s to get some butter crunch ice cream. It is the ultimate in ice cream, or at least it used to be. I enjoyed my cone as much as ever but my wife kept telling me all the reasons it wasn’t as good as it used to be. I didn’t have the nerve to tell her that a lot of things had not tasted as good lately. I let her think the difference was the ice cream. Of course, since I am noted as having a jaded palate, maybe it was the ice cream.
The book of Proverbs in the Bible is full of indications that obedience and seeking wisdom will make a difference in our lives. I don’t know how it works but I am willing to believe it.
homo unius libri
Ultimately it is unanswerable. God is sovereign. He does not operate by my standards or have a need to justify anything to me. I still wonder how He chooses and why He blesses. I think there is often an element of cause and effect.
By that I do not mean vending machine cause and effect. God will not be manipulated. It is never a matter of jumping through a hoop and getting a prize. Instant gratification makes us puppies doing tricks for treats. God is bigger than that and wants more for us than that. But I still feel that our behavior and willingness to obey results in something.
Maybe it is more a matter of vectors and “unintended” consequences. If you remember your math a vector is an angle of variation from a straight line. Airplanes are constantly figuring vectores because winds push them to the side and they have to figure a new angle to arrive at the target destination. A small variation does not make much difference over a few feet but over a thousand miles you can end up far from where you are supposed to be.
Consider that in life. Two people start off the same heading for the same goal. One varies a little and the other doesn’t. In the short term it doesn’t seem to make any difference but over a lifetime it can be dramatic.
It is also possible that some are more open to see their blessings. Recently, while back east we went to a place called Friendly’s to get some butter crunch ice cream. It is the ultimate in ice cream, or at least it used to be. I enjoyed my cone as much as ever but my wife kept telling me all the reasons it wasn’t as good as it used to be. I didn’t have the nerve to tell her that a lot of things had not tasted as good lately. I let her think the difference was the ice cream. Of course, since I am noted as having a jaded palate, maybe it was the ice cream.
The book of Proverbs in the Bible is full of indications that obedience and seeking wisdom will make a difference in our lives. I don’t know how it works but I am willing to believe it.
homo unius libri
Saturday, September 15, 2018
Opus 2018-219: Cornerstone Considerations: BRVI, The Haters Strike Again
Amidst the weeping and gnashing of teeth about the lack of civility from our liberal snowflakes we have the latest bit of hate filled smear aimed at Brett Kavanaugh. Someone, who does not want to be named, wrote a letter to a Trump Hating congresswoman and asked that nothing be done about it. Say that again? The continued leaks infer it was something from his high school years. The media has been having a hay day with it.
It now gives us a good test of Kavanaugh’s character. I am not talking about whether he acted like a fool when he was in high school. No sane person really cares about that. I mean does he have the courage to stand up to the Democrat hate machine when it gets this bad. If he cannot stand up in the face of this then he probably will not stand by his principles later. I could say the same thing for the Republicans who should get this vote over without a hiccup.
We also need to get past all this anonymous nonsense that is going on about calling a hot line if you see something happen. Anonymous hot lines are the tool of the devil. The Founders understood that when they wrote the Sixth Amendment to the Constitution which says anyone accused of a crime has the right
I would vote to censor Diane Feinstein before I would want Judge Kavanaugh to be rejected over this.
homo unius libri
It now gives us a good test of Kavanaugh’s character. I am not talking about whether he acted like a fool when he was in high school. No sane person really cares about that. I mean does he have the courage to stand up to the Democrat hate machine when it gets this bad. If he cannot stand up in the face of this then he probably will not stand by his principles later. I could say the same thing for the Republicans who should get this vote over without a hiccup.
We also need to get past all this anonymous nonsense that is going on about calling a hot line if you see something happen. Anonymous hot lines are the tool of the devil. The Founders understood that when they wrote the Sixth Amendment to the Constitution which says anyone accused of a crime has the right
“...to be confronted with the witnesses against him...”It is very easy to call people names when you don’t have to be held accountable for your accusations.
I would vote to censor Diane Feinstein before I would want Judge Kavanaugh to be rejected over this.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-218: Laura Ingles Is a Hater
I have come across discussions at several locations of the change that has taken place in the left as they attempt to destroy the freedom produced by Western culture. They are specifically focused on America since they have already run roughshod over Europe. The idea is that a couple of generations ago the Marxists began a different approach. Instead of the traditional economic approach they have begun pushing something called Cultural Marxism. They had succeeded in gutting the free market with socialism and state control but even the little bit of wiggle room they have left was too much for Economic Marxism. In spite of the regulations and redistribution of income through taxes, capitalism is so effective that people are still prospering and thus not ready to move back to the collective.
So they have instead started working on the culture. That movement is having a lot more success. Witness the Snowflake generation that has been raised to be economically illiterate. The concept of hard work and risk have been deleted from the educational curriculum. They think they deserve everything just because they are alive. When they don’t get their own pet unicorn or EBTGold card, they declare themselves victims of the system. Many are still living with mommy and refusing to get real jobs. We saw it in the last election. If all the millennials who protested Trump’s election had bothered to register and vote, Hillary would be president today. One current expression of this is the prevalence of the anti-bullying curriculum saturating our public schools. You are not to learn to stand up for yourself. You are to find a representative of the government, a teacher or counselor, and have them work out your problem.
The most recent example of Cultural Marxism to hit the culture is the attack of Laura Ingles Wilder and her Little House series of books. Her name used to be on an award given by the American Library Association. Now it is being removed because she was not politically correct by modern Progressive standards.
You have to be a special group of snowflakes to feel Little House on the Prairie is violating your safe space. Maybe they need to read The Long Winter.
homo unius libri
So they have instead started working on the culture. That movement is having a lot more success. Witness the Snowflake generation that has been raised to be economically illiterate. The concept of hard work and risk have been deleted from the educational curriculum. They think they deserve everything just because they are alive. When they don’t get their own pet unicorn or EBTGold card, they declare themselves victims of the system. Many are still living with mommy and refusing to get real jobs. We saw it in the last election. If all the millennials who protested Trump’s election had bothered to register and vote, Hillary would be president today. One current expression of this is the prevalence of the anti-bullying curriculum saturating our public schools. You are not to learn to stand up for yourself. You are to find a representative of the government, a teacher or counselor, and have them work out your problem.
The most recent example of Cultural Marxism to hit the culture is the attack of Laura Ingles Wilder and her Little House series of books. Her name used to be on an award given by the American Library Association. Now it is being removed because she was not politically correct by modern Progressive standards.
You have to be a special group of snowflakes to feel Little House on the Prairie is violating your safe space. Maybe they need to read The Long Winter.
homo unius libri
Friday, September 14, 2018
Opus 2018-217: On the Street: Brain Rot Source Found
One of the depressing aspects of travel is that you are forced to endure the mind numbing blather of the left. It is amazing how many hotel lobbies still have CNN 24/7. I went down to the lobby to try to do some study and writing and I only lasted about 20 minutes. I could not block out the constant Trump Derangement Syndrome coming from the screen on the wall. I asked them to at least turn it down since they would not turn it off or change it. They said they would. They didn’t. I felt my IQ shrinking as I sat there.
On the road it is amazing to get some ethics-dead left wing talk show host putting out the same distorted view of reality. I don’t know how many people I have heard talk about how incompetent and downright stupid Trump is. What does that say about them when he is running rings around them?
I can’t wait to get home and back in my corner of the world. At least the scorpions and centipedes don’t talk all the time.
homo unius libri
On the road it is amazing to get some ethics-dead left wing talk show host putting out the same distorted view of reality. I don’t know how many people I have heard talk about how incompetent and downright stupid Trump is. What does that say about them when he is running rings around them?
I can’t wait to get home and back in my corner of the world. At least the scorpions and centipedes don’t talk all the time.
homo unius libri
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Opus 2018-216: Nike Speaks
For a brief time it seems that a majority of Americans in almost every demographic have turned against Nike. Well and good. They deserve our contempt and not our business. They really don’t care about the opinions of the unwashed masses but they certainly care about our business and until we get another Progressive government like Obama gave us we will not have a mandate requiring us to buy Nike shoes. Can’t you see an Obamapod-care act requiring everyone to buy at least one pair of Nike shoes a year?
Some people have tried to sidetrack the issue by claiming that the shoes are made in Asia by people making 20 cents an hour. They then decry the vulgar profits being made when they sell their shoes for so much money. Neither argument is worth consideration. They are simply distractions.
First, let’s consider the 20 cents. Is the claim true? I have no way of verifying it. The number may have originated the same way the statistics were generated about the environmental damage that plastic straws create. What if it is true? Then you need to get out a little more and realize how much of the world lives. If someone in China gets paid 20 cents an hour to make shoes and is still working there a week later then that tells you that somehow that person is able to stay alive making 20 cents an hour. In a way we cannot wrap our heads around with our air conditioning, smart phones and, yes, $150 Nikes, they are able to provide for their needs. If they could not they would die of hunger or exposure. Could they do it in Washington, D.C.? That is a stupid question. They don’t live in Washington D.C. On our trip we talked to a waitress in Michigan and a waiter in West Virginia. Both said their salary was $3.20 and hour. Could I live on that? No way. Neither could they. Did you ever stop to think that the bulk of the Asian workers income might come from bonuses based on production rather than the hourly wage?
Second, the reason Nike sells their shoe for so much is a twofer. It starts with the fact that people will pay for it. The only time I every bought any Nike shoes I paid $10 at an outlet mall. I remember talking to a security guard at my school who had hundreds of pairs of shoes and he paid a lot more than $10. It is enabled by a government that allows tariffs that benefit the Chinese rather than Americans.
So get mad at Nike for the right reason: They have glorified a race baiter who hates the country that has blessed him. At the same time remember the federal administrations of both parties that have sold you down the river to the benefit of the rest of the world. Be glad Trump seems to be trying to correct that.
homo unius libri
Some people have tried to sidetrack the issue by claiming that the shoes are made in Asia by people making 20 cents an hour. They then decry the vulgar profits being made when they sell their shoes for so much money. Neither argument is worth consideration. They are simply distractions.
First, let’s consider the 20 cents. Is the claim true? I have no way of verifying it. The number may have originated the same way the statistics were generated about the environmental damage that plastic straws create. What if it is true? Then you need to get out a little more and realize how much of the world lives. If someone in China gets paid 20 cents an hour to make shoes and is still working there a week later then that tells you that somehow that person is able to stay alive making 20 cents an hour. In a way we cannot wrap our heads around with our air conditioning, smart phones and, yes, $150 Nikes, they are able to provide for their needs. If they could not they would die of hunger or exposure. Could they do it in Washington, D.C.? That is a stupid question. They don’t live in Washington D.C. On our trip we talked to a waitress in Michigan and a waiter in West Virginia. Both said their salary was $3.20 and hour. Could I live on that? No way. Neither could they. Did you ever stop to think that the bulk of the Asian workers income might come from bonuses based on production rather than the hourly wage?
Second, the reason Nike sells their shoe for so much is a twofer. It starts with the fact that people will pay for it. The only time I every bought any Nike shoes I paid $10 at an outlet mall. I remember talking to a security guard at my school who had hundreds of pairs of shoes and he paid a lot more than $10. It is enabled by a government that allows tariffs that benefit the Chinese rather than Americans.
So get mad at Nike for the right reason: They have glorified a race baiter who hates the country that has blessed him. At the same time remember the federal administrations of both parties that have sold you down the river to the benefit of the rest of the world. Be glad Trump seems to be trying to correct that.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-215: Election 2018: An Insight from Sowell
One of the books on my “everyone should read” list is Conflict of Visions by Thomas Sowell. He discusses the two dominate philosophies trying to guide culture in the West. He labels them the constrained and the unconstrained visions. The Constitution and the American Revolution are products of the constrained vision. It maintains that man is not to be trusted and thus we have the checks and balances in our system of government. The French Revolution was an example of the unconstrained vision. Because they had a more humanistic view of the nature of man they did not think something like the Reign of Terror or the emergence of a Napoleon to be possible. It is a bit simplistic but you might call the current stand of the liberals in favor of a living Constitution are unconstrained. Those who believe in the original intent of the Constitution are constrained.
Judicial activism as we observe it today is part of the unconstrained vision. We have Ruth Bader Ginsberg openly calling on the precedents of international laws to settle issues in the Untied States Supreme Court. You have a long history of new rights carved out of the imaginations of the liberal justices. Sowell describes it thus,
The midterm elections are coming. Ponder what kind of Supreme Court you want and vote accordingly.
Sowell, Thomas, A Conflict of Visions, New York: Basic Books, 2007.
homo unius libri
Judicial activism as we observe it today is part of the unconstrained vision. We have Ruth Bader Ginsberg openly calling on the precedents of international laws to settle issues in the Untied States Supreme Court. You have a long history of new rights carved out of the imaginations of the liberal justices. Sowell describes it thus,
“Yet those who argue for deliberate law making through judicial activism do so not on the basis of having a democratic majority, even in a given generation, but rather on having an intellectually and morally superior process for decision making.” p. 54We need to understand that there are elites in the world who think they know what is best for us and want to limit our options. They do this in a genuine belief in their own wisdom and our lack of same. This is the big issue at stake in the current confirmation battle over Bret Kavanaugh. The progressives are concerned that he will interpret the Constitution as it is written instead of the way that the liberals want us to understand it. The unconstrained vision believes that some people are so pure and superior that they will make the right choices.
The midterm elections are coming. Ponder what kind of Supreme Court you want and vote accordingly.
Sowell, Thomas, A Conflict of Visions, New York: Basic Books, 2007.
homo unius libri
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Opus 2018-214: Is Weather Fake News?
My wife is glued to the Weather Channel on the cable TV in our room at the hotel. These people are living through the high point of their career. All of the drama coaching they had over the years is paying off. We are all going to die but we are going to be entertained while we do it. The graphics are superb. The flowing colors and morphing images are awesome. Shakespeare would drool over some of the dramatic presentations of the dynamics of hurricanes. Oscars will go to the meteorologists standing on sidewalks where the ocean will surge.
Meanwhile at Weather.com it tells me the forecasted wind speed for Charleston, South Carolina is 34 MPH for Friday and 54 MPH for Saturday. That is some real wind but a long way from Armageddon. Where we are my wife is worried about them shutting down the airport and keeping my son from flying out and the forecast is for 10 MPH.
I understand that weather is an guessing game. I am amazed at what they can figure out but even then it could have been totally different. What I don’t understand is how they can come to such extreme differences from the same data. We will be starting the drive home soon. My wife expects to be swept from the Interstate by flash floods. I expect to see a few puddles. I imagine the truth will be somewhere in between.
homo unius libri
Meanwhile at Weather.com it tells me the forecasted wind speed for Charleston, South Carolina is 34 MPH for Friday and 54 MPH for Saturday. That is some real wind but a long way from Armageddon. Where we are my wife is worried about them shutting down the airport and keeping my son from flying out and the forecast is for 10 MPH.
I understand that weather is an guessing game. I am amazed at what they can figure out but even then it could have been totally different. What I don’t understand is how they can come to such extreme differences from the same data. We will be starting the drive home soon. My wife expects to be swept from the Interstate by flash floods. I expect to see a few puddles. I imagine the truth will be somewhere in between.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-213: Headlines: Two More for the Donald
The Washington Free Beacon gives two reasons to continue to “put up” with Donald Trump. The new one is the announcement by John Bolton that the United States would no long offer any support or cooperation with the UN joke called the International Criminal Court (ICC). Its real name should be The Communist Anti-American Committee. Like so many UN organizations it started with a lot of great ideals and immediately became another joke.
The second reason is one that has been in the news for a few days, if you get your news from people who actually report. President Trump has announced he is going to shut down the office of the Palestinian Liberation Organization in Washington, D.C. That office is another example of a good idea that turned out to be a waste of time.
Remember we have elections coming up in November. Remember that if the Democrats gain seats they will cripple the attempts of Donald Trump to Make America Great Again. He already has to fight the press and most of the Republican party. While it is amazing what he has achieved in the face of all that resistance, he does not need the challenge of a total Democrat roadblock.
Elections have consequence. I believe Obama said that when he won. Of course he forgot all about it when he lost. Lets refresh his memory.
homo unius libri
The second reason is one that has been in the news for a few days, if you get your news from people who actually report. President Trump has announced he is going to shut down the office of the Palestinian Liberation Organization in Washington, D.C. That office is another example of a good idea that turned out to be a waste of time.
Remember we have elections coming up in November. Remember that if the Democrats gain seats they will cripple the attempts of Donald Trump to Make America Great Again. He already has to fight the press and most of the Republican party. While it is amazing what he has achieved in the face of all that resistance, he does not need the challenge of a total Democrat roadblock.
Elections have consequence. I believe Obama said that when he won. Of course he forgot all about it when he lost. Lets refresh his memory.
homo unius libri
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Opus 2018-212: 9/11 from Two Sides
It is time to remind ourselves of the evil in the world. 9/11 represents that evil. That is true if you are a believer in conspiracy theory or if you feel we were attacked as a nation by the fanatical arm of a warlike religion.
The conspiracy theorists are alive and well. If you have not been following their posts they believe that there is a world-wide conspiracy of the elites to bring America to its knees and institute the reign of the few. They believe that George Bush was in on the planning that brought down the Twin Towers. There is an international banking cabal led by the Rothschilds who are using their money to make slaves of the rest of us. The hidden leaders of the deep state assassinated JFK with the aid of the CIA. They are all involved in grotesque rituals involving murdered children and human trafficking. If you have any questions, ask my wife.
A more rational view is that the United States was attacked by the forces of jihad with the enthusiastic support of the world’s Muslims. The Twin Towers were brought down by a plot that was well financed and carefully planned by followers of Islam who believe America is the great Satan and will do anything they can to destroy us. For us 9/11 was a wake up call to the fact that we are in a war for survival. If we don’t remain awake then Sharia law will eventually replace the liberty enshrined in the Constitution and we will look like another third world country.
Stay awake. Never forget. The battle is just beginning.
homo unius libri
The conspiracy theorists are alive and well. If you have not been following their posts they believe that there is a world-wide conspiracy of the elites to bring America to its knees and institute the reign of the few. They believe that George Bush was in on the planning that brought down the Twin Towers. There is an international banking cabal led by the Rothschilds who are using their money to make slaves of the rest of us. The hidden leaders of the deep state assassinated JFK with the aid of the CIA. They are all involved in grotesque rituals involving murdered children and human trafficking. If you have any questions, ask my wife.
A more rational view is that the United States was attacked by the forces of jihad with the enthusiastic support of the world’s Muslims. The Twin Towers were brought down by a plot that was well financed and carefully planned by followers of Islam who believe America is the great Satan and will do anything they can to destroy us. For us 9/11 was a wake up call to the fact that we are in a war for survival. If we don’t remain awake then Sharia law will eventually replace the liberty enshrined in the Constitution and we will look like another third world country.
Stay awake. Never forget. The battle is just beginning.
homo unius libri
Monday, September 10, 2018
Opus 2018-211: Headlines: Global Warming into Tennis
Evidently someone named Roger Federer lost a game of tennis to John Millman. According to the Washington Free Beacon the New York Times headline attributed his loss to, wait for it, drum roll, global warming. Since I don’t read the New York Times I would like to thank the Free Beacon for calling this one. The article is a bit tongue in cheek so you might enjoy reading it. For the liberal reading “tongue in cheek” means it is written as humorous.
The author missed one point though. While Federer himself seems to have offered only a comment about how hot it was I wondered if the New York Times was familiar with the game of tennis. Last time I paid attention I thought that both players were exposed to the same heat. I have never heard of a tennis court with only one side having air conditioning. It isn’t like a newspaper where only one side is covered. They could have just as easily claimed that Millman won because of global warming.
Newspapers are kind of like mosquitos. They have some purpose but they are mainly a source of irritation.
homo unius libri
The author missed one point though. While Federer himself seems to have offered only a comment about how hot it was I wondered if the New York Times was familiar with the game of tennis. Last time I paid attention I thought that both players were exposed to the same heat. I have never heard of a tennis court with only one side having air conditioning. It isn’t like a newspaper where only one side is covered. They could have just as easily claimed that Millman won because of global warming.
Newspapers are kind of like mosquitos. They have some purpose but they are mainly a source of irritation.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-210: Time to Join the Catholics
On our current road trip we have been visiting family and friends, many of which we have not seen for decades. Among them is a Catholic couple that I would consider devout. They are one of the reasons I fully expect to see a lot of Roman Catholics in heaven. They will not be there because they are Catholic but because of their trust in the saving blood of Jesus Christ, the same as protestants.
When you meet with Roman Catholics the state of the church comes up. I hope you are aware of the general reporting of the perversions going on among the priesthood and hierarchy. It seems to reach all the way to the pope. They report that the laity is outraged. They are writing letters and such but the Catholic church belongs to a tradition that is ruled from the top down. I asked if they are going to withhold funds. They said yes.
Now I see it happening.
You will find an article in CNS News. They quote the Wall Street Journal as a source of information. It seems that a group of business men who are Catholic have agreed to withhold almost a million dollars in contributions that they would normally give to the church. This is serious money.
If Hillary had won the election I imagine that the Justice Department would now be filing a lawsuit against these men for a hate crime. It would make the case against the Christian baker look like a kindergarten romp. These men have deep pockets. I could even see DOJ going for jail time because these men dared to discuss this in private and agree to a course of action. I think conspiracy would be the least of the charges.
Since Trump won I don’t expect the DOJ to get involved but the ACLU is still out there.
I have been saying that we need to hold Nike’s feet to the fire and avoid patronizing other businesses that are on the wrong path. I am glad to see some Catholic businessmen are putting their money where there mouths should be.
It is time for all of us to join them.
homo unius libri
When you meet with Roman Catholics the state of the church comes up. I hope you are aware of the general reporting of the perversions going on among the priesthood and hierarchy. It seems to reach all the way to the pope. They report that the laity is outraged. They are writing letters and such but the Catholic church belongs to a tradition that is ruled from the top down. I asked if they are going to withhold funds. They said yes.
Now I see it happening.
You will find an article in CNS News. They quote the Wall Street Journal as a source of information. It seems that a group of business men who are Catholic have agreed to withhold almost a million dollars in contributions that they would normally give to the church. This is serious money.
If Hillary had won the election I imagine that the Justice Department would now be filing a lawsuit against these men for a hate crime. It would make the case against the Christian baker look like a kindergarten romp. These men have deep pockets. I could even see DOJ going for jail time because these men dared to discuss this in private and agree to a course of action. I think conspiracy would be the least of the charges.
Since Trump won I don’t expect the DOJ to get involved but the ACLU is still out there.
I have been saying that we need to hold Nike’s feet to the fire and avoid patronizing other businesses that are on the wrong path. I am glad to see some Catholic businessmen are putting their money where there mouths should be.
It is time for all of us to join them.
homo unius libri
Sunday, September 9, 2018
Opus 2018-209: Physician, Heal Thyself
As I observe what appears to me to be the hypocrisy and total lack of integrity on the left I go through a bit of introspection: Am I guilty of the same type of disconnect? We are generally very quick to see the faults in others and slow to see our own. That is the source of Jesus’ comment,
So I find that when I see others doing things I think are wrong I need to take a deep breath and look at my own actions and motives. Jesus again,
homo unius libri
(Matthew 7:3 KJV) And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?I have noticed that the leftists in the media and politics like to take their own devious priorities and accuse conservatives of being guilty. Remember Hillary and her talk of a “great right wing conspiracy” when it was really the left that had the conspiracy going? Remember all the talk about the violence being generated by conservative talk radio when it was the left showing no restraint. Who is it that is being uncivil in the Kavanaugh confirmation hearings? In psychology it is called “projection”. Jesus knew about it.
So I find that when I see others doing things I think are wrong I need to take a deep breath and look at my own actions and motives. Jesus again,
(Matthew 7:5 KJV) Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.The only thing I will add that people don’t like to hear is that one reason we are called to self examination and honesty is so that we can then proceed to evaluate others.
homo unius libri
Saturday, September 8, 2018
Opus 2018-208: Fake Outrage
The talking heads were outraged over the movie called First Man. It tells the story of the first landing on the moon but deliberately cuts out the scene where the American flag is planted. It seems that the film makers are America haters and felt it was an achievement for mankind, not the United States. They were angry, but it seems they were still going to see it.
Another talking head talked about his dislike for Robert DeNero because of his anti-American screeds. But he still goes to DeNero’s movies. I guess he got upset enough half way through one to get up and leave but I didn’t hear anything about asking for his money back. You can do that, you know. My children have done it and received a refund. Even if you lose the money you make a point to the theater manager who wants your repeat business.
People criticize the New York Times but still read it. I think it must be some kind of mentality that we used to hear about Playboy Magazine, “I only buy the magazine for the articles.”
When are we going to catch on.
homo unius libri
Another talking head talked about his dislike for Robert DeNero because of his anti-American screeds. But he still goes to DeNero’s movies. I guess he got upset enough half way through one to get up and leave but I didn’t hear anything about asking for his money back. You can do that, you know. My children have done it and received a refund. Even if you lose the money you make a point to the theater manager who wants your repeat business.
People criticize the New York Times but still read it. I think it must be some kind of mentality that we used to hear about Playboy Magazine, “I only buy the magazine for the articles.”
When are we going to catch on.
homo unius libri
Friday, September 7, 2018
Opus 2018-207: Headlines: Booker Shows Off His Knowledge of the Constitution
Cory Booker continues to reinforce his image of a bumbling clown according to the Washington Free Beacon. I actually thought the post would be a spoof, but it was accurate.
By now you have probably read about Booker and his Spartacus Moment. It was later revealed that the e-mails he had risked his life and career to reveal had already been cleared for release. His bravery was similar to a healthy man challenging a deaf quadriplegic who is facing the other direction to a fist fight.
It gets better.
Evidently a reporter tried to call him to account for his ridiculous antics. You see, his empty gesture was even noticed by a member of the press. His response to the question was that the reporter was violating the Constitution by asking him a question. I don’t know if the reporter knew what Booker was talking about. I am amazed that Booker knew enough even to give his retarded answer, but the Constitution bars of congress from being arrested or questioned on the floor or on their way to congress. It is to protect them from the kind of partisan law enforcement that the left uses when the police ignore violent Antifa rioters. It has nothing to do with a reporter forgetting his role as a voice of the DNC and actually asking a pertinent question.
Maybe Booker thought the reporter was a marshal.
It was a typical liberal application of the Constitution. They view the document as a bag of tricks to be called on to perform whatever slight of hand they are attempting at the moment.
November is coming. Voting Republican doesn’t always pay off. Voting Democrat is making a pact with the Devil.
homo unius libri
By now you have probably read about Booker and his Spartacus Moment. It was later revealed that the e-mails he had risked his life and career to reveal had already been cleared for release. His bravery was similar to a healthy man challenging a deaf quadriplegic who is facing the other direction to a fist fight.
It gets better.
Evidently a reporter tried to call him to account for his ridiculous antics. You see, his empty gesture was even noticed by a member of the press. His response to the question was that the reporter was violating the Constitution by asking him a question. I don’t know if the reporter knew what Booker was talking about. I am amazed that Booker knew enough even to give his retarded answer, but the Constitution bars of congress from being arrested or questioned on the floor or on their way to congress. It is to protect them from the kind of partisan law enforcement that the left uses when the police ignore violent Antifa rioters. It has nothing to do with a reporter forgetting his role as a voice of the DNC and actually asking a pertinent question.
Maybe Booker thought the reporter was a marshal.
It was a typical liberal application of the Constitution. They view the document as a bag of tricks to be called on to perform whatever slight of hand they are attempting at the moment.
November is coming. Voting Republican doesn’t always pay off. Voting Democrat is making a pact with the Devil.
homo unius libri
Opus 2018-206: Two Can Play the Race Card
Ron DeSantis used the word “monkey”. Evidently this is supposed to be a racist thing to do. The Social Justice Warriors went on the warpath. It was a repeat of what the left has been doing for years. In the process of accusations the left repeats its habit of ignoring truth. The internet is full of posts quoting Democrats and other servants of darkness repeatedly using the word monkey. Never is there a link to racism, but we are used to this.
The big question that time will answer is, “Has he learned the Trump lesson?”
The Trump lesson is the way in which Donald Trump responds to the ridiculous claims of the left wing press. He doesn’t cower. He doesn’t apologize. He doesn’t sweat or tremble in fear. He laughs at them and throws it back in their face. Does “Fake News” ring a bell? DeSantis needs to take that lesson to heart.
I learned this lesson in front of a middle school class, not in national politics. Middle school students have learned to play the race card and to be honest, it works very well for them. It is amazing how many teachers are afraid of being called a racist. I responded differently when they wanted to play. Instead of folding, I chose to raise.
Let’s say that a student is sitting in his seat quacking like a duck. I might tell him to stop acting stupid. Often if it is a black student he will say, “Are you saying that I am stupid because I am black? Are you a racist?” He has anted. Now it is my turn. Instead of pleading that I am not a racist I turn it on him. I point out that I did not say anything about being black. I talked about acting stupid. Then I ask him why he assumed that acting stupid had anything to do with being stupid or black. Then I would tell him to stop being a racist. It doesn’t take much to shift the conversation. After a few tries the race card went back into the deck to be tried on another teacher.
Republicans need to learn from the lesson Trump is giving them. It will make a difference in our country.
homo unius libri
The big question that time will answer is, “Has he learned the Trump lesson?”
The Trump lesson is the way in which Donald Trump responds to the ridiculous claims of the left wing press. He doesn’t cower. He doesn’t apologize. He doesn’t sweat or tremble in fear. He laughs at them and throws it back in their face. Does “Fake News” ring a bell? DeSantis needs to take that lesson to heart.
I learned this lesson in front of a middle school class, not in national politics. Middle school students have learned to play the race card and to be honest, it works very well for them. It is amazing how many teachers are afraid of being called a racist. I responded differently when they wanted to play. Instead of folding, I chose to raise.
Let’s say that a student is sitting in his seat quacking like a duck. I might tell him to stop acting stupid. Often if it is a black student he will say, “Are you saying that I am stupid because I am black? Are you a racist?” He has anted. Now it is my turn. Instead of pleading that I am not a racist I turn it on him. I point out that I did not say anything about being black. I talked about acting stupid. Then I ask him why he assumed that acting stupid had anything to do with being stupid or black. Then I would tell him to stop being a racist. It doesn’t take much to shift the conversation. After a few tries the race card went back into the deck to be tried on another teacher.
Republicans need to learn from the lesson Trump is giving them. It will make a difference in our country.
homo unius libri
Thursday, September 6, 2018
Opus 2018-205: Money and Mouths
I was listening to a radio conversation about how the left attacks and shuts down any business that rises on their radar as supporting Trump. We are familiar with the baker taken to court because he would not produce a wedding cake with a homosexual theme. We know about the gloriously failed boycott of Chick-fil-e and currently of In and Out. Bricks come through windows. Employees and customers are assaulted. The fascist forces of socialism are on the attack everywhere.
The conservative talking heads took it as a point of pride and maturity that conservatives don’t act that way. I understand that. As a Christian I am taught to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile. I am taught agape love which is patient and kind. I know that and I understand it. But.....
Perhaps it is time for us to begin working toward the same goals of winning our culture but with methods of integrity. We can’t throw rocks through their windows but we can take our business somewhere else. We can take the high road and we need to realize that the high road means making a different economic pattern in our lives. It will be hard by our modern snowflake vaules but if we ever get serious we will see some results.
A current example is ESPN. I understand that they finally fired the race baiting Jemele Hill who was getting away with disgusting verbal assaults. That was good. The fact that they paid here 2.5 million to get her to go away makes it a joke. We got the results we wanted in one way but she got such a reward that she is laughing all the way to the bank. Recently Nike put their international reputation behind an America hating racist. Maybe it is time to stop believing their commercials and try one of the many competitors out there. I must confess that I have not bought any Nike products for decades because their shoes and my feet don’t get along very well. The point is there are many other companies that make shoes. Make Nike a little less cocky.
Need I remind you of the many companies that can be brought to see the error of their ways? Had a Starbucks lately? Do you remember that Levi cut off the Boy Scouts back when they were still the real boy scouts? Have you paid any attention to the evil going on in the Disney empire? Do you like Ben and Jerry’s ice cream or have Progressive insurance?
The list goes on. Unless conservatives bite the bullet the profits will go on too.
homo unius libri
The conservative talking heads took it as a point of pride and maturity that conservatives don’t act that way. I understand that. As a Christian I am taught to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile. I am taught agape love which is patient and kind. I know that and I understand it. But.....
Perhaps it is time for us to begin working toward the same goals of winning our culture but with methods of integrity. We can’t throw rocks through their windows but we can take our business somewhere else. We can take the high road and we need to realize that the high road means making a different economic pattern in our lives. It will be hard by our modern snowflake vaules but if we ever get serious we will see some results.
A current example is ESPN. I understand that they finally fired the race baiting Jemele Hill who was getting away with disgusting verbal assaults. That was good. The fact that they paid here 2.5 million to get her to go away makes it a joke. We got the results we wanted in one way but she got such a reward that she is laughing all the way to the bank. Recently Nike put their international reputation behind an America hating racist. Maybe it is time to stop believing their commercials and try one of the many competitors out there. I must confess that I have not bought any Nike products for decades because their shoes and my feet don’t get along very well. The point is there are many other companies that make shoes. Make Nike a little less cocky.
Need I remind you of the many companies that can be brought to see the error of their ways? Had a Starbucks lately? Do you remember that Levi cut off the Boy Scouts back when they were still the real boy scouts? Have you paid any attention to the evil going on in the Disney empire? Do you like Ben and Jerry’s ice cream or have Progressive insurance?
The list goes on. Unless conservatives bite the bullet the profits will go on too.
homo unius libri
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
Opus 2018-204: Headlines: The Consistent Communist, South Africa Implodes
I have mentioned South Africa and the communist destruction of that country at least twice. Although it is starting as murder and genocide against white farmers the real goal is the destabilization and destruction of a once prosperous nation. I find that South Africa’s agony is something that many people still do not hear about in the MSM. Since I don’t frequent any of the liberal voices I don’t know if they are covering what is going on there. I have found that people who rely on the leftist talking heads don’t seem to hear anything.
Walter Williams has a good post giving background at The Daily Signal. He makes the link to the way Zimbabwe was similarly destroyed. In typical Williams style he gives some interesting statistics about inflation. Evidently the highest inflation rate in history took place in Hungary in 1946 at 41.9 quadrillion. That makes Venezuela look like a booming economy. What they have in common is communist overlords.
If you have been following this tragedy then you probably don’t need to read this article. If you have not, it might be good for you to check it out.
homo unius libri
Walter Williams has a good post giving background at The Daily Signal. He makes the link to the way Zimbabwe was similarly destroyed. In typical Williams style he gives some interesting statistics about inflation. Evidently the highest inflation rate in history took place in Hungary in 1946 at 41.9 quadrillion. That makes Venezuela look like a booming economy. What they have in common is communist overlords.
If you have been following this tragedy then you probably don’t need to read this article. If you have not, it might be good for you to check it out.
homo unius libri
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Opus 2018-203: Baby Talk: Context of Cute
Cuteness is all timing. I think my granddaughter brings new depths of meaning to the common understanding of cute. I also accept that I might be a bit biased. You can see that I would not make a good reporter for the New York Times or CNN.
I also know it is a matter of context. If I laid on a bed and kicked my legs and ate my shirt, no one would think I was being cute. They would dial 911. When she drools while smiling it melts my heart but her uncle rushes off to wash his hands. I thought changing diapers was fun when I was a parent. Now I will do a number 1 but for a 2 it is time for momma to have some quality time.
When you come across people who are new parents you need to be patient with them. They are in a bubble and the new bundle is at the center.
homo unius libri
I also know it is a matter of context. If I laid on a bed and kicked my legs and ate my shirt, no one would think I was being cute. They would dial 911. When she drools while smiling it melts my heart but her uncle rushes off to wash his hands. I thought changing diapers was fun when I was a parent. Now I will do a number 1 but for a 2 it is time for momma to have some quality time.
When you come across people who are new parents you need to be patient with them. They are in a bubble and the new bundle is at the center.
homo unius libri
Sunday, September 2, 2018
Opus 2018-202: History Will Judge
I have not been paying much attention to the funeral and orations concerning John McCain. I have been to enough funerals and participated an too many. I know how much hot air is projected at such events. They are almost as bad as some of the award assemblies I had to attend while teaching public school. It is a good thing that God does not usually throw lightening bolts to sear liars. He will wait until eternity where he has a lake of fire waiting.
You have mixed stories and wonder which to believe. You have fellow prisoners claiming that he was noble and courageous. You have others saying he ratted them out to the guards. Hero or traitor? Which is true? Maybe both. It could be that different cell mates saw different things at different times. It is possible that actions were misinterpreted, positive and negative. He could have been strong at one point and broken at another. Maybe neither. Memories get clouded and motives can be varied. We will never really know.
Maybe we should divide McCain’s legacy into three stages. The first was his time of captivity in a Vietnamese prison. We will never be able to dig into that so maybe we should just give him the benefit of the doubt and let the legends stand.
The second stage would be the middle point in his career as senator. My wife, who almost spits at the mention of his name, says he was at least consistent with his defense of the unborn children being killed in abortions. That is worth something. I am willing to say that during that time period he was a normal politician and has a mixed record.
The third stage is the one that clouds his memory for me. It is a strong indicator of his later record that he was so loved by the anti-American hacks in the media. Is in an indication of his seduction by the dark side that so many socialist Democrats were his buddies. In the last ten years you find him constantly stabbing the conservative agenda in the back. He became petty and self serving. He made it an issue of banning President Trump from his funeral. I don’t think he thought about the fact that Trump would have hated every moment and would have had less time to tweet if courtesy demanded his attendance. Less widely broadcast is that he also banned Sarah Palin. This is mysterious as well as petty. I have read that Sarah Palin never said a bad word about him even though his people tried to make her look like a fool while she was running as his vice-presidential nominee. She acted like a lady. He acted like a cad.
If John McCain had finished the third chapter like he lived the first two I might feel like his death brought a loss to the country. As it is I can only feel it is a negative influence that has been removed. The frustrating thing about history is that it is not really written until we have all passed from the scene. Take a look at your history. Benedict Arnold was an American hero early in the Revolutionary War. He was the leader that won the battle of Saratoga that brought the French into the war. But something changed and instead of being remembered as a hero his name has become synonymous with betrayal. He is our name for traitor. The later actions of betrayal eclipsed the early gallant service.
homo unius libri
You have mixed stories and wonder which to believe. You have fellow prisoners claiming that he was noble and courageous. You have others saying he ratted them out to the guards. Hero or traitor? Which is true? Maybe both. It could be that different cell mates saw different things at different times. It is possible that actions were misinterpreted, positive and negative. He could have been strong at one point and broken at another. Maybe neither. Memories get clouded and motives can be varied. We will never really know.
Maybe we should divide McCain’s legacy into three stages. The first was his time of captivity in a Vietnamese prison. We will never be able to dig into that so maybe we should just give him the benefit of the doubt and let the legends stand.
The second stage would be the middle point in his career as senator. My wife, who almost spits at the mention of his name, says he was at least consistent with his defense of the unborn children being killed in abortions. That is worth something. I am willing to say that during that time period he was a normal politician and has a mixed record.
The third stage is the one that clouds his memory for me. It is a strong indicator of his later record that he was so loved by the anti-American hacks in the media. Is in an indication of his seduction by the dark side that so many socialist Democrats were his buddies. In the last ten years you find him constantly stabbing the conservative agenda in the back. He became petty and self serving. He made it an issue of banning President Trump from his funeral. I don’t think he thought about the fact that Trump would have hated every moment and would have had less time to tweet if courtesy demanded his attendance. Less widely broadcast is that he also banned Sarah Palin. This is mysterious as well as petty. I have read that Sarah Palin never said a bad word about him even though his people tried to make her look like a fool while she was running as his vice-presidential nominee. She acted like a lady. He acted like a cad.
If John McCain had finished the third chapter like he lived the first two I might feel like his death brought a loss to the country. As it is I can only feel it is a negative influence that has been removed. The frustrating thing about history is that it is not really written until we have all passed from the scene. Take a look at your history. Benedict Arnold was an American hero early in the Revolutionary War. He was the leader that won the battle of Saratoga that brought the French into the war. But something changed and instead of being remembered as a hero his name has become synonymous with betrayal. He is our name for traitor. The later actions of betrayal eclipsed the early gallant service.
homo unius libri
Saturday, September 1, 2018
Opus 2018-201: Christian Cliches: Chapter and Verse Please
I am really getting tired of hearing people say, “Scripture says....” I keep wanting to scream in their ear, “Where? Give me chapter and verse.” Usually they can’t. It is interesting how often people quote Benjamin Franklin and act like it is the Bible. We need to be careful in misquoting the Bible. I say that in spite of the fact that I believe that the Bible is the word of God.
The general pagan doesn’t care. Really. Why should a Buddhist, a Hindu or a Wican care what the Bible says about anything. If you believe it is just another old book it has no more authority than something written by Oprah or Dr. Phil. Actually it has less impact.
The cultural Christian doesn’t care. They might pay lip service to the Bible as a great book but it doesn’t go too far. Any part that limits their personal gratification gets set aside for some reason. It is amazing how many so-called Christians reject some of the central teachings of the Bible. The physical resurrection of Jesus which the Bible presents as the center of the faith is labeled a myth. Sexual purity is just a hang up that some of the frustrated men tried to force on us to keep us from having fun. The list goes on and the accommodations pile up.
The new Christian often doesn’t know any better. The problem here is that you can distract them from the truths that the Bible teaches by getting them focusing on deceptive points. It is crippling to their spiritual growth.
Anyone who actually reads their Bible might be a bit skeptical. One of the general principles I operate by is that if it sounds fishy then it will smell fishy if you get closer. I say that not to insult the fish but to remind myself that the Bible is a book of consistent truth from a God who does not change. I wish I could say the same for the people who like to throw out “quotes”.
If you are going to quote the Bible, get it correct and use it with people who will listen.
homo unius libri
The general pagan doesn’t care. Really. Why should a Buddhist, a Hindu or a Wican care what the Bible says about anything. If you believe it is just another old book it has no more authority than something written by Oprah or Dr. Phil. Actually it has less impact.
The cultural Christian doesn’t care. They might pay lip service to the Bible as a great book but it doesn’t go too far. Any part that limits their personal gratification gets set aside for some reason. It is amazing how many so-called Christians reject some of the central teachings of the Bible. The physical resurrection of Jesus which the Bible presents as the center of the faith is labeled a myth. Sexual purity is just a hang up that some of the frustrated men tried to force on us to keep us from having fun. The list goes on and the accommodations pile up.
The new Christian often doesn’t know any better. The problem here is that you can distract them from the truths that the Bible teaches by getting them focusing on deceptive points. It is crippling to their spiritual growth.
Anyone who actually reads their Bible might be a bit skeptical. One of the general principles I operate by is that if it sounds fishy then it will smell fishy if you get closer. I say that not to insult the fish but to remind myself that the Bible is a book of consistent truth from a God who does not change. I wish I could say the same for the people who like to throw out “quotes”.
If you are going to quote the Bible, get it correct and use it with people who will listen.
homo unius libri
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