Several years ago, I was rushing to O'Hare Airport to catch a flight to Denver for a critical meeting with a very large prospect. I was meeting a colleague in Denver the night before and reviewing notes so that we were prepared for the following morning. I went to the gate about 10 minutes before departure, handed my boarding pass and ticket to the lady at the gate, and proceeded to get on the plane. Once settled in, I realized I was exhausted and shut my eyes, only to fall asleep immediately. The flight must have been a smooth one because I did not wake up until we were descending and close to touching down. After taking a few minutes to get my head together, I looked out the window and things just didn't seem right. As we taxied to the gate, the captain announced over the loud speaker that we had landed in..........North Dakota. Immediately, my mind went into hyper speed trying to get a grip on what was going on. Was this a connecting flight? Did we get re-routed? Did my baggage come with me? How in the world was I getting to Denver? The airport was the size of an office and every person in the airport had a cowboy hat on their head. Obviously, I did not make it to Denver for my meeting and I spent a restless night on a chair in the airport in the middle of nowhere.
Needless to say, I was material for water cooler gossip at our corporate office for the next month. Honestly, it was not funny at the time, but to look back now, I literally laugh out loud at the memories. But there was a good life lesson in this little adventure of mine.
I thought that I had done everything correctly. I was prepared and ready. I was on time. I relied on other people to point me in the right direction. And still I ended up in the middle of nowhere. And I missed a critical appointment. And ultimately, I lost a sale and a big commission check. So what was the lesson? I learned that no matter what the intentions, no matter how much we prepare, no matter how right we think we are, one little, incorrect decision can make a huge difference in our lives and in our plans.
It is a lesson I learned again in my business a few years later and it is one of the reasons that I am slower to make a decision today. It is the reason that I try to analyze my decisions and view them from as many angles as I can think of. It is the reason that I try constantly to impress on my staff, my friends, and my family the importance of even seemingly small decisions in their lives.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
My Resignation
This past Wednesday night I met with the freshman boys that I have been mentoring. Tonight, I let them know that I will be meeting with them for two more weeks and then I am finished. I have enjoyed the time together and I have gotten an education about what the youth of suburban America is going through right now. Quite frankly, some of the things that I have learned are surprising, even shocking. Quite frankly, some of the things I have learned are very sad.
I have learned that some of the boys don't have money for lunch and they won't stand in the "poor" boys lunch line because the girls don't date those boys. I have learned that some of the boys have not seen their mothers in over 10 years (these boys are 14 and 15 year old boys). Some of the boys' parents are hooked on meth and crack and these people don't function at home very well so the boys end up taking care of themselves. Some of the boys face verbal and physical abuse when they go home. Some of the boys have sex on a regular basis and started when they were 12 or 13 years old. All sad situations indeed.
But there have been some very rewarding things that have happened the past two years. Some of my boys have gone from D students to A/B students. Some of my boys have started trying to eat healthy. Some of them have given up tobacco. A few of the boys are reading the bible on a daily basis. Some are learning to unconditionally love their parents, no matter what the situation is. And some have set their goals on attending college and making a better life for themselves and their families.
I hope I have been some kind of help to these boys. I will miss them. But it is time to move on. I feel like my work is done and that the boys need someone locally to lead them so that they can do weekend events together and just see each other on a more regular basis than what I am able to.
For any of the boys that read this blog; Thank you. You have given me more than I could have ever given you. Stay the course. Persevere. And trust God. You will make it and you will make a difference.
God Bless!
I have learned that some of the boys don't have money for lunch and they won't stand in the "poor" boys lunch line because the girls don't date those boys. I have learned that some of the boys have not seen their mothers in over 10 years (these boys are 14 and 15 year old boys). Some of the boys' parents are hooked on meth and crack and these people don't function at home very well so the boys end up taking care of themselves. Some of the boys face verbal and physical abuse when they go home. Some of the boys have sex on a regular basis and started when they were 12 or 13 years old. All sad situations indeed.
But there have been some very rewarding things that have happened the past two years. Some of my boys have gone from D students to A/B students. Some of my boys have started trying to eat healthy. Some of them have given up tobacco. A few of the boys are reading the bible on a daily basis. Some are learning to unconditionally love their parents, no matter what the situation is. And some have set their goals on attending college and making a better life for themselves and their families.
I hope I have been some kind of help to these boys. I will miss them. But it is time to move on. I feel like my work is done and that the boys need someone locally to lead them so that they can do weekend events together and just see each other on a more regular basis than what I am able to.
For any of the boys that read this blog; Thank you. You have given me more than I could have ever given you. Stay the course. Persevere. And trust God. You will make it and you will make a difference.
God Bless!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Immigration, World Poverty, and Gumballs
When I was in high school, I went on a missions trip to Mexico during Christmas break. The experience was life-changing and I still reflect on my time in Mexico during the Christmas season. The group of guys that I went with had fun while helping to build a church that was desperately needed. I liked the experience because we were not just sending money ( although I think monetary support is great) but we were working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Mexicans and forming a bond. At the end of a day's work, I was tired and sore, but I also felt as though I was, in some small way, making a difference. It was a good feeling.
I believe that our foreign policy regarding immigration and aid should be somewhat the same. The proverb saying, "Give a fish to a man and you will help feed him for a day. Teach the man to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime" is very applicable here.
I heard Roy Beck give his presentation about immigration several years ago. I just found a new updated presentation, and I still think it makes complete sense. Take a few minutes and listen to his presentation below. I hope that it makes sense to you.
I believe that our foreign policy regarding immigration and aid should be somewhat the same. The proverb saying, "Give a fish to a man and you will help feed him for a day. Teach the man to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime" is very applicable here.
I heard Roy Beck give his presentation about immigration several years ago. I just found a new updated presentation, and I still think it makes complete sense. Take a few minutes and listen to his presentation below. I hope that it makes sense to you.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Crazy "Birthers"
This morning Obama released the long form of his birth certificate stating that he was born in Hawaii.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The Tyranny of Obama
Being a conservative in many circles of today's society is not popular. Conservatives are looked down upon and are depicted by the press and media as the individuals that are stopping progress and keeping America from being a great nation. Statists often say that the individual's freedoms should take a back seat for the common good of the people. So what are the differences and why should we care?
"The Founders believed, and the Conservative agrees, in the dignity of the individual; that we, as human beings, have a right to live, live freely, and pursue that which motivates us not because man or some government says so, but because these are God-given natural rights".
The Modern Liberal, or Statist, believes in the supremacy of the state. The Liberals reject the principles of the Declaration and believe that the individual's imperfection and personal pursuits block the ability to create a utopian state. The Statist taints "equality" to pursue economic and social outcomes that are equal for everyone in society. The Statist is relentless in his or her quest for power because power is necessary to create Utopia for all. "President Barack Obama made this point when lecturing the Wesleyan University graduating class of 2008 during his campaign; "Our individual salvation depends on collective salvation."
Obviously, Hollywood and the media are liberal. It is why you don't hear an outcry regarding $4.00 gas prices under the Obama Administration but $3.00 per gallon gas was top news headlines under Bush. It is why the media and Hollywood bashed Bush for the Iraq war but not a word is written about the failed policies regarding Egypt and Libya. Liberals, or Statists, crushed Bush for $158 billion in debt but say how necessary it is for Obama to raise the debt ceiling and don't question $3 Trillion.
The British writer-philosopher C.S. Lewis wrote," Of all the tyrannies, a tyranny sincerly exercised for the good of it's victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under the robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty my sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience."
In other words when Obama ran under "Hope and Change" we should have questioned what hope and change he had in mind. When he stated, "We are the ones we have been waiting for", we should have cringed because Obama sincerely believes he is exercising tyranny for the good of his victims as an omnipotent moral busybody.
If you value liberty, you must do all that you can to make this man a one-term president.
"The Founders believed, and the Conservative agrees, in the dignity of the individual; that we, as human beings, have a right to live, live freely, and pursue that which motivates us not because man or some government says so, but because these are God-given natural rights".
The Modern Liberal, or Statist, believes in the supremacy of the state. The Liberals reject the principles of the Declaration and believe that the individual's imperfection and personal pursuits block the ability to create a utopian state. The Statist taints "equality" to pursue economic and social outcomes that are equal for everyone in society. The Statist is relentless in his or her quest for power because power is necessary to create Utopia for all. "President Barack Obama made this point when lecturing the Wesleyan University graduating class of 2008 during his campaign; "Our individual salvation depends on collective salvation."
Obviously, Hollywood and the media are liberal. It is why you don't hear an outcry regarding $4.00 gas prices under the Obama Administration but $3.00 per gallon gas was top news headlines under Bush. It is why the media and Hollywood bashed Bush for the Iraq war but not a word is written about the failed policies regarding Egypt and Libya. Liberals, or Statists, crushed Bush for $158 billion in debt but say how necessary it is for Obama to raise the debt ceiling and don't question $3 Trillion.
The British writer-philosopher C.S. Lewis wrote," Of all the tyrannies, a tyranny sincerly exercised for the good of it's victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under the robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty my sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience."
In other words when Obama ran under "Hope and Change" we should have questioned what hope and change he had in mind. When he stated, "We are the ones we have been waiting for", we should have cringed because Obama sincerely believes he is exercising tyranny for the good of his victims as an omnipotent moral busybody.
If you value liberty, you must do all that you can to make this man a one-term president.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Three Cigars
Just within the past few weeks, the Civil War has started to be commemorated throughout various locations in the United States, due to it's 150 year anniversary. Growing up in the North and moving to the South has given me a great appreciation for the history of this time in American history. Franklin, Tennessee (close to where I live) played a prominent role in the Civil War, but so did three cigars. Let me explain.
In Septemeber of 1862, Robert E. Lee made a decisive and strong move and invaded the North. It was a very critical time in the war. If Lee could win, European nations most likely would recognize the Confederacy and the war would, for all intents and purposes, be over. The South would be triumphant as an independent nation.
George McClellan, the Union general, was known to be overcautious and moved slowly and hesitantly. Lee's bold moves seemed to always be a step ahead and he appeared to have the momentum. However, fate intervened when an Indiana regiment stopped to rest in a field that the Confederates had vacated only a few days before. Three soldiers were taking a rest in the field when one of them noticed an envelope lying in the grass. Inside the envelope were three cigars wrapped in a piece of paper. The soldiers split the cigars - and then one of them decided to look at the paper.
His curiosity changed history.
The Union soldier had found the marching orders for Lee's army. It told It told where the Confederates were headed and what they had planned. Finally, McClellan went on the attack.
The results were that the Confederates were turned back at the Battle of Antietam, on the bloodiest single day in American history.
All because of three cigars.
In Septemeber of 1862, Robert E. Lee made a decisive and strong move and invaded the North. It was a very critical time in the war. If Lee could win, European nations most likely would recognize the Confederacy and the war would, for all intents and purposes, be over. The South would be triumphant as an independent nation.
George McClellan, the Union general, was known to be overcautious and moved slowly and hesitantly. Lee's bold moves seemed to always be a step ahead and he appeared to have the momentum. However, fate intervened when an Indiana regiment stopped to rest in a field that the Confederates had vacated only a few days before. Three soldiers were taking a rest in the field when one of them noticed an envelope lying in the grass. Inside the envelope were three cigars wrapped in a piece of paper. The soldiers split the cigars - and then one of them decided to look at the paper.
His curiosity changed history.
The Union soldier had found the marching orders for Lee's army. It told It told where the Confederates were headed and what they had planned. Finally, McClellan went on the attack.
The results were that the Confederates were turned back at the Battle of Antietam, on the bloodiest single day in American history.
All because of three cigars.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
The End Times.....Again?!
Happy Easter!
I am confident that some of the messages in churches today mentioned not only the Easter story but also the end times. It seems as though everyone is talking about the end times nowadays. Earthquakes, wars, protests of governments around the world, a push towards one currency and a one world order are all things that individuals point to as signs of the end of days.
Most people reference the books of Mathew, Daniel, and Revelations in the bible when talking about end times. Most bible prophecy "experts" refer to a 70 week period (the book of Daniel) that will take place as the signaling of the end of times. And most of the end times 'scholars" say that 69 weeks have passed and we are waiting for the 70th week, which will signal the beginning of the end.
But what if the experts are wrong? What if the 70th week has already occurred? The problem with saying that there is a "gap" between the 69th and 70th weeks is that the bible indicates absolutely no gap. And Jesus said to his disciples and followers, in Mathew 24:34, 'Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place". It seems to me like Jesus is saying to the people with whom He was speaking that they would live to see and experience the events described in Matthew 24. But that is impossible! Right?! I don't know, but I have learned that today's prophetic scenario that is so popular on the radio and with TV evangelists, and multi-million copy best sellers has a very, very short history. The system of prophetic interpretation that is familiar to most Christians today had it's beginnings in 1830.
Everyone from Billy Graham to Barbra Streisand states that the end is near. But what do they mean by near? The book of Revelation states that the time was "near" for those who first read the prophecy (Rev. 1:1,3). Since the book of Revelations was written during Nero's reign, prior to the total destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, common sense would say that the prophetic events of Revelation were fulfilled during the lifetime of those who first read the prophecy.
In his book, Last Days Madness, author Gary DeMar states, "As early as the second century, prophets were suggesting dates for the bodily return of Christ. The lesson of history are recorded for all to heed For many, however, the past is a distant memory. All that counts is the present. Sure, they were wrong, the prophecy "experts" warn us, but it will be different with us".
While I have not come to a definitive conclusion regarding the information presented in this book, I have been greatly challenged. If you don't want to be challenged, I would not suggest reading Last Days Madness.
I am confident that some of the messages in churches today mentioned not only the Easter story but also the end times. It seems as though everyone is talking about the end times nowadays. Earthquakes, wars, protests of governments around the world, a push towards one currency and a one world order are all things that individuals point to as signs of the end of days.
Most people reference the books of Mathew, Daniel, and Revelations in the bible when talking about end times. Most bible prophecy "experts" refer to a 70 week period (the book of Daniel) that will take place as the signaling of the end of times. And most of the end times 'scholars" say that 69 weeks have passed and we are waiting for the 70th week, which will signal the beginning of the end.
But what if the experts are wrong? What if the 70th week has already occurred? The problem with saying that there is a "gap" between the 69th and 70th weeks is that the bible indicates absolutely no gap. And Jesus said to his disciples and followers, in Mathew 24:34, 'Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place". It seems to me like Jesus is saying to the people with whom He was speaking that they would live to see and experience the events described in Matthew 24. But that is impossible! Right?! I don't know, but I have learned that today's prophetic scenario that is so popular on the radio and with TV evangelists, and multi-million copy best sellers has a very, very short history. The system of prophetic interpretation that is familiar to most Christians today had it's beginnings in 1830.
Everyone from Billy Graham to Barbra Streisand states that the end is near. But what do they mean by near? The book of Revelation states that the time was "near" for those who first read the prophecy (Rev. 1:1,3). Since the book of Revelations was written during Nero's reign, prior to the total destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, common sense would say that the prophetic events of Revelation were fulfilled during the lifetime of those who first read the prophecy.
In his book, Last Days Madness, author Gary DeMar states, "As early as the second century, prophets were suggesting dates for the bodily return of Christ. The lesson of history are recorded for all to heed For many, however, the past is a distant memory. All that counts is the present. Sure, they were wrong, the prophecy "experts" warn us, but it will be different with us".
While I have not come to a definitive conclusion regarding the information presented in this book, I have been greatly challenged. If you don't want to be challenged, I would not suggest reading Last Days Madness.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
I am Losing It!
On March 5th, I wrote that I was ready to get back in the game and lose some weight A short, off-the-cuff comment a friend had made to me about someone else totally resonated with me. He was talking about how an overweight person was interviewing for the same head coaching position as he is. He said that he was sure he held the advantage because the other candidate was overweight, a clear sign that he was unable to take care of himself, not to mention running a football team. I disagree, however, I also have to consider the fact that society believes this way. So I decided to go on a "no fake food" eating plan (as described in my March 24, 2011 blog). Below are the "before" and "after" pics for the first 40 days. I have lost 45 pounds and at least 4 inches around my waistline. I would like to lose at least 45 more pounds and am committed to do so by Thanksgiving 2011.
Friday, April 22, 2011
For Duty or Love
My son, Joshy, really likes history and does his History homework quickly and without any delay. He likes his History teacher and the course content. Spanish is another story. He couldn't stand Spanish 3. He would drag out every homework assignment for ages. We had to "threaten" him to get the work done. I guess the acorn didn't fall too far from the tree. I do the same thing. If I like a project or an assignment, I can spend hours making sure it is done properly and really enjoy it. On the other hand, if I have to do somethng out of "duty", it seems like a form of torture.
Today is Good Friday. And this time of year I often wonder how Jesus felt about about dying on the cross. Was it for love or was it out of duty? We know that He didn't want to be crucified. He was human. Nobody in their right mind would want to be crucified. Have you ever seen The Passion of the Christ? Although just a depiction, the crucifiction scene showed a brutal, barbaric way to die. But I think to say he was crucified even though he didn’t want to be crucified is to take the idea too far. I believe He wanted to sacrifice on our behalf, he just didn’t want to feel the torture and the pain. A mother wants to give birth, but she doesn’t want to feel pain either. Still, if you tell her it’s going to hurt terribly, she’s not going to back out of it, she wants to have the baby. If I asked my dad why he sacrificed so much for me, I believe he would say that he loves me. That is certainly more affirming than answering that it was his duty as a father. I know for a fact that I sacrifice for my family because I love them. There is no sense of duty whatsoever. I imagine you feel the same way.
I think that in order to live a more fulfilling and joyful life, it is necessary to start serving in the ways that you are gifted to serve, and cut out all the duty and obligation and pride stuff. Really. If you are teaching out of a sense of obligation, stop. Literally stop as soon as you can. Instead, find something that gets you fired up. Who knows what that something is… Maybe it’s plumbing or carpentry work, maybe it’s counseling executives, maybe it’s walking people’s dogs or planting a community garden. Who knows, but serve in a way God has wired you to serve. I think He actually wants you to enjoy it, not offer it as some sort of sad sacrifice. Can you imagine your parents wanting you to be miserable all the time? Why do we imagine God would be any different?
I am going to start challenging myself to serve out of love rather than out of sacrifice and duty. I think that's what God does. I believe that is how we should function also.
Today is Good Friday. And this time of year I often wonder how Jesus felt about about dying on the cross. Was it for love or was it out of duty? We know that He didn't want to be crucified. He was human. Nobody in their right mind would want to be crucified. Have you ever seen The Passion of the Christ? Although just a depiction, the crucifiction scene showed a brutal, barbaric way to die. But I think to say he was crucified even though he didn’t want to be crucified is to take the idea too far. I believe He wanted to sacrifice on our behalf, he just didn’t want to feel the torture and the pain. A mother wants to give birth, but she doesn’t want to feel pain either. Still, if you tell her it’s going to hurt terribly, she’s not going to back out of it, she wants to have the baby. If I asked my dad why he sacrificed so much for me, I believe he would say that he loves me. That is certainly more affirming than answering that it was his duty as a father. I know for a fact that I sacrifice for my family because I love them. There is no sense of duty whatsoever. I imagine you feel the same way.
I think that in order to live a more fulfilling and joyful life, it is necessary to start serving in the ways that you are gifted to serve, and cut out all the duty and obligation and pride stuff. Really. If you are teaching out of a sense of obligation, stop. Literally stop as soon as you can. Instead, find something that gets you fired up. Who knows what that something is… Maybe it’s plumbing or carpentry work, maybe it’s counseling executives, maybe it’s walking people’s dogs or planting a community garden. Who knows, but serve in a way God has wired you to serve. I think He actually wants you to enjoy it, not offer it as some sort of sad sacrifice. Can you imagine your parents wanting you to be miserable all the time? Why do we imagine God would be any different?
I am going to start challenging myself to serve out of love rather than out of sacrifice and duty. I think that's what God does. I believe that is how we should function also.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday
I remember going to Maundy Thursday services with my parents and siblings. It was very personal and meaningful. The "services" that we attended were not formal. Families attended during a particular time frame during the evening and participated in the Lord's Supper as a family only. I wish more services were like this.
Tonight, churches all over the world will be celebrating Maundy Thursday. The exact Maundy Thursday meaning has perhaps changed over the years, but today it is based on early Christian traditions. The meaning of Maundy can be traced to the word mandatum - which means a mandate. So, Maundy Thursday represents the mandate given to Christians to follow in the steps of Jesus.
Traditionally, Christians attending a Maundy Thursday service will experience the Lord’s supper, and/or the washing of feet and the traditional reading of Psalm 21 and 22. Again, however, the actual "rituals" performed vary from church to church across the United States.
Even if you don't attend a Maundy Thursday service tonight, I would encourage you to spend some personal time in reflection, humbleness, and gratitude for the celebration and meaning of the Easter weekend.
Tonight, churches all over the world will be celebrating Maundy Thursday. The exact Maundy Thursday meaning has perhaps changed over the years, but today it is based on early Christian traditions. The meaning of Maundy can be traced to the word mandatum - which means a mandate. So, Maundy Thursday represents the mandate given to Christians to follow in the steps of Jesus.
Traditionally, Christians attending a Maundy Thursday service will experience the Lord’s supper, and/or the washing of feet and the traditional reading of Psalm 21 and 22. Again, however, the actual "rituals" performed vary from church to church across the United States.
Even if you don't attend a Maundy Thursday service tonight, I would encourage you to spend some personal time in reflection, humbleness, and gratitude for the celebration and meaning of the Easter weekend.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Game-Changer
"Hi, My name is Matt Foley. I am 35 years old, divorced, and live in a van down by the river". So goes the beginning of a famous skit by Chris Farley on SNL. Because of the similarities of my life and this skit, I have gotten a lot of mileage out of it. My colleagues at work give me a hard time because I live in a camper down by the lake. Most of the time I love staying in the camper. It is a good place to stay when I am out of town. I am in the woods, make fires quite often, grill out most of the time, read a lot, and kayak on the 300 acre lake that is 50 feet from my front door.
There are some down sides to the campground, however. It is very cold in the winter. And lonely. There was a drug and prostitution ring that was busted a few campers down from where I stay. I have seen drug exchanges take place in the very early morning hours. And, when it snows, I have been stuck and unable to get out. Because I am alone during the winter months and 10 miles from the city, I decided to buy a pistol...just in case.
This week, I was glad that I did. As I entered the shower house, I noticed a bicycle in the far left shower stall. I just had a feeling. So I went back to the camper and got my Springfield Arms 44 gap, loaded with a magazine of hollow tip shells. To make a long story short, I had an encounter with a desperate man. He said he was biking across the state to see his daughter. He needed money and food. He was determined. Much to his surprise, I had my pistol tucked neatly under my towel. Needless to say, his story and demeanor changed very quickly when he realized he that I was prepared and armed.
I don't know what would have happened if I had not been armed. Maybe nothing. Who knows? But I am thankful for the right to bear arms and thankful that our founding fathers had the common sense to make provisions for law-abiding citizens to be able to protect themselves.
There are some down sides to the campground, however. It is very cold in the winter. And lonely. There was a drug and prostitution ring that was busted a few campers down from where I stay. I have seen drug exchanges take place in the very early morning hours. And, when it snows, I have been stuck and unable to get out. Because I am alone during the winter months and 10 miles from the city, I decided to buy a pistol...just in case.
This week, I was glad that I did. As I entered the shower house, I noticed a bicycle in the far left shower stall. I just had a feeling. So I went back to the camper and got my Springfield Arms 44 gap, loaded with a magazine of hollow tip shells. To make a long story short, I had an encounter with a desperate man. He said he was biking across the state to see his daughter. He needed money and food. He was determined. Much to his surprise, I had my pistol tucked neatly under my towel. Needless to say, his story and demeanor changed very quickly when he realized he that I was prepared and armed.
I don't know what would have happened if I had not been armed. Maybe nothing. Who knows? But I am thankful for the right to bear arms and thankful that our founding fathers had the common sense to make provisions for law-abiding citizens to be able to protect themselves.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Rest in Peace
I have never really been close to my second cousin, Carol. I think mostly because of distance. She grew up in southern Illinois and then moved to Florida. I grew up in central Illinois and the distance was just too far to have a close relationship. But when we got together, I really enjoyed spending time and we had a lot of fun. She is sweet and kind and considerate. And she has a good sense of humor. Distance continues to be a hindrance even today. Carol lives in Denver. I live in Nashville.
On Wednesday, April 13th, Carol's 19 year-old daughter passed away. My heart aches for Carol and her family. What do you say to a mother of a 19 year-old that has died? What can you say positive about a young adult that is just starting to make her way in life and then suddenly has it tragically ended? I don't know. Cliches come to mind and only seem to ring hollow. And the funeral service most certainly will be terribly difficult. At times such as these, I believe we were created to mourn and to cry. At times like these, I think we can only pray that God provides comfort, and peace, and strength for the future.
Funerals make me reflect. I think about the life of the person for whom the funeral is taking place. I think of loved ones that have passed. And I often think of what I would want my funeral to be like. Daniel Boone had a great ending to his life. His family gathered around him for nearly two weeks. They sang favorite songs, told stories about his life, told him how much they loved him, and then one night, with his family gathered around, passed in his sleep. That's the way I would love to have my life end. I want my funeral to be small. My wife, my boys (and their families), a few friends, my siblings, and Dad and Mom (Shirl), and my mother would be just fine for me. At my funeral, I want to leave letters that are read to these people to let them know one final time how much I loved them. I would hope that could say that my life was about helping them. I would hope that they would know that I sacrificed some part of my life for them, and for me, it was completely worth it. I would hope that they could say that in some small way I had challenged them to be a better person.
I can't say that I know Carol's daughter. I have spent time with her only a few times. But, when we did spend time together, she was sweet and kind, just like her mother. And I am sure that at her funeral, family and friends will know that she loved them and that she made a difference in their lives.
Rest in peace Allison. Rest in peace sweet young lady.
On Wednesday, April 13th, Carol's 19 year-old daughter passed away. My heart aches for Carol and her family. What do you say to a mother of a 19 year-old that has died? What can you say positive about a young adult that is just starting to make her way in life and then suddenly has it tragically ended? I don't know. Cliches come to mind and only seem to ring hollow. And the funeral service most certainly will be terribly difficult. At times such as these, I believe we were created to mourn and to cry. At times like these, I think we can only pray that God provides comfort, and peace, and strength for the future.
Funerals make me reflect. I think about the life of the person for whom the funeral is taking place. I think of loved ones that have passed. And I often think of what I would want my funeral to be like. Daniel Boone had a great ending to his life. His family gathered around him for nearly two weeks. They sang favorite songs, told stories about his life, told him how much they loved him, and then one night, with his family gathered around, passed in his sleep. That's the way I would love to have my life end. I want my funeral to be small. My wife, my boys (and their families), a few friends, my siblings, and Dad and Mom (Shirl), and my mother would be just fine for me. At my funeral, I want to leave letters that are read to these people to let them know one final time how much I loved them. I would hope that could say that my life was about helping them. I would hope that they would know that I sacrificed some part of my life for them, and for me, it was completely worth it. I would hope that they could say that in some small way I had challenged them to be a better person.
I can't say that I know Carol's daughter. I have spent time with her only a few times. But, when we did spend time together, she was sweet and kind, just like her mother. And I am sure that at her funeral, family and friends will know that she loved them and that she made a difference in their lives.
Rest in peace Allison. Rest in peace sweet young lady.
Monday, April 18, 2011
In Obama's own words: The debt ceiling debate
Obviously, the speech below is from a time when Obama was getting ready to run for the Presidency and was trying to pull the wool over the voter's eyes. Obviously, Barry does not believe his own words. However, his speech could not be more correct. If any reporter has the guts to ask Obama about this speech, we all know the answer will be that had no idea that Bush had left him with such a terrible mess and that he has had to change his views for the good of the country. But, indeed, Obama himself makes a strong argument against his NEW views.
This is from a speech Obama made in 2006:
This is from a speech Obama made in 2006:
The fact that we are here today to debate raising America’s debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the U.S. Government can’t pay its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our Government’s reckless fiscal policies.
Over the past 5 years, our federal debt has increased by $3.5 trillion to $8.6 trillion.That is “trillion” with a “T.” That is money that we have borrowed from the Social Security trust fund, borrowed from China and Japan, borrowed from American taxpayers. And over the next 5 years, between now and 2011, the President’s budget will increase the debt by almost another $3.5 trillion.
Numbers that large are sometimes hard to understand. Some people may wonder why they matter. Here is why: This year, the Federal Government will spend $220 billion on interest. That is more money to pay interest on our national debt than we’ll spend on Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. That is more money to pay interest on our debt this year than we will spend on education, homeland security, transportation, and veterans benefits combined. It is more money in one year than we are likely to spend to rebuild the devastated gulf coast in a way that honors the best of America.
And the cost of our debt is one of the fastest growing expenses in the Federal budget. This rising debt is a hidden domestic enemy, robbing our cities and States of critical investments in infrastructure like bridges, ports, and levees; robbing our families and our children of critical investments in education and health care reform; robbing our seniors of the retirement and health security they have counted on.
Every dollar we pay in interest is a dollar that is not going to investment in America’s priorities.
Senator Barack Obama
Senate Floor Speech on Public Debt
March 16, 2006
Sunday, April 17, 2011
I am Still Here
Well, obviously I haven't had a week like this past week since I started blogging. I literally had no time to blog. I am looking into how to be able to blog from my phone so that I can post a few things while on the road.
My week started last Sunday with my weekly drive to Kentucky. Monday, I worked late so that I could leave Kentucky on Tuesday. Tuesday rolled around and my Blackberry suffered a software glitch that left my cell phone inoperable. (I literally had no communication, except at the office and at home until Wednesday night) On Tuesday, I drove back to Nashville to see Spencer play at the Hard Rock Cafe. On Wednesday, I worked from home and spent time at the Verizon store and on the computer trying to restore my new phone. Thursday, I woke up at 3:30 a.m. to drive to Kentucky again and spend the rest of my day in a Healthcare Council meeting. Thursday night, I fell asleep early. Friday, I attended a staff meeting and drove to Tennessee. When I arrived in Tennessee, I unpacked my car, loaded the Suburban, put five track athletes in my vehicle, and drove through tornadoes, fog, hail, and driving rain to Atlanta. It was around 11:30 when we got to bed. Saturday was spent at a track meet in Atlanta. We ate and then drove back to Thompson's Station, arriving at 9:30 last night. Today, I will drive back to Kentucky and then on Tuesday I will drive back to Nashville to see Joshy run in an elite, invitation only meet at Vanderbilt University.
So, I am not complaining, but you probably get the picture. A lot of driving and little "down" time. But, I found myself enjoying the moment quite often really. I enjoyed my time on the road and made a conscious effort to enjoy the scenery. Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia all have very distinct, beautiful scenery. I enjoyed just riding alone in the car with no cell phone interruptions like in the "old days". I enjoyed taking a trip with my son and having him ride along beside me. And I enjoyed making memories with him.
And I will remember this week for a long time and the uniqueness of it. But, I have to admit, a return to "normalcy" would be nice too.
My week started last Sunday with my weekly drive to Kentucky. Monday, I worked late so that I could leave Kentucky on Tuesday. Tuesday rolled around and my Blackberry suffered a software glitch that left my cell phone inoperable. (I literally had no communication, except at the office and at home until Wednesday night) On Tuesday, I drove back to Nashville to see Spencer play at the Hard Rock Cafe. On Wednesday, I worked from home and spent time at the Verizon store and on the computer trying to restore my new phone. Thursday, I woke up at 3:30 a.m. to drive to Kentucky again and spend the rest of my day in a Healthcare Council meeting. Thursday night, I fell asleep early. Friday, I attended a staff meeting and drove to Tennessee. When I arrived in Tennessee, I unpacked my car, loaded the Suburban, put five track athletes in my vehicle, and drove through tornadoes, fog, hail, and driving rain to Atlanta. It was around 11:30 when we got to bed. Saturday was spent at a track meet in Atlanta. We ate and then drove back to Thompson's Station, arriving at 9:30 last night. Today, I will drive back to Kentucky and then on Tuesday I will drive back to Nashville to see Joshy run in an elite, invitation only meet at Vanderbilt University.
So, I am not complaining, but you probably get the picture. A lot of driving and little "down" time. But, I found myself enjoying the moment quite often really. I enjoyed my time on the road and made a conscious effort to enjoy the scenery. Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia all have very distinct, beautiful scenery. I enjoyed just riding alone in the car with no cell phone interruptions like in the "old days". I enjoyed taking a trip with my son and having him ride along beside me. And I enjoyed making memories with him.
And I will remember this week for a long time and the uniqueness of it. But, I have to admit, a return to "normalcy" would be nice too.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
My Response to Rick
My "blog" friend wrote a response to my blog entitled," I am Not a Republican". In his reply Rick states:
"three comments to Jeff on his blog....
1) 100B in savings (what he wanted) amounts to 2.25 weeks of interest payments on our current debt.
2) The GOP got more than $38.5B because they stripped out other money in the first few "continuing resolutions".
3) If he's so worried about money then he should not be so harsh on the abortion topic because if we had an additional 330K unwanted kids a year in this country then the cost would be astronomically larger than the $300M in P.P. funding (which doesn't only go towards abortions)....Just sayin, he's off on this rants. Feel free to print this and share with him".
Rick, I love the feedback from you. Keep it coming. Hopefully, I can learn a few things from you and maybe you can get a different viewpoint from me. So here's my response:
1) I agree 100% with you. $100B or $38.5B really doesn't matter either way right now. Both amounts are pitiful compared to the national debt. But, given the situation that America is in right now, I would favor $100B rather than $38.5B. Personally, I don't see the budget as a Republican or Democratic issue. I see it as an American issue and I am for America, my kids, and my grand kids (if/when we have them). It's just that my simple little mind tells me that you can't continue to spend $100 when you only have $20 in your money clip. I think we need more cuts. I don't know all of the proposals in the Ryan budget cut proposal of $6-7 trillion, but I think that is a step in the right direction.
2) You wrote, "The GOP got more than $38.5B because they stripped out other money in the first few "continuing resolutions". Not according to the AP. The press and the Administration did a "bait and switch" over the weekend and praised Boehner, but on Tuesday of this week, the praise started going back to Obama. Why? Because he "duped" the Republicans. The AP reported yesterday that, "The historic $38 billion in budget cuts resulting from at-times hostile bargaining between Congress and the Obama White House were accomplished in large part by pruning money left over from previous years, using accounting sleight of hand and going after programs President Barack Obama had targeted anyway. The details of the agreement reached late Friday night just ahead of a deadline for a partial government shutdown reveal a lot of one-time savings and cuts that officially "score" as cuts to pay for spending elsewhere, but often have little to no actual impact on the deficit." In other words, the GOP didn't get as much as it first appeared. Obama and the Democrats won. America lost.
3) We may simply have a different opinion on abortion and I am sure that I can't convince you otherwise. However, for me, I can't save money at the expense of a human life. And I can't make a distinction between an unborn child, and say, and an elderly person. To me, both are human lives. Both could be termed "unwanted". The old retired person simply draws from the system and costs us money. But I have a 96 year-old grandad that I cherish and could never imagine terminating his life because he is unwanted and costs us money. The Germans thought the Jews were "unwanted" also.
In regards to Planned Parenthood, I simply don't want to pay for killing babies. If this issue is so important to people, tell them to hit people up like George Soros that have the money to fund every PP clinic in America, or donate themselves. I can't imagine the outcry of liberals if the government would purchase a gun for every adult in America or if the Left had to pay for mosques, churches, and synagogues. They wouldn't stand for it and they wouldn't allow it because they don't believe in it.
Also, 97% of the women entering PP get an abortion. 3% get "other healthcare services". In a study done recently, over 50 clinics were called inquiring about receiving a mammogram or cancer screening. 98% of the Planned Parenthood clinics responded saying that they don't provide those services.
And that is why I don't think I am off on this rant.
"three comments to Jeff on his blog....
1) 100B in savings (what he wanted) amounts to 2.25 weeks of interest payments on our current debt.
2) The GOP got more than $38.5B because they stripped out other money in the first few "continuing resolutions".
3) If he's so worried about money then he should not be so harsh on the abortion topic because if we had an additional 330K unwanted kids a year in this country then the cost would be astronomically larger than the $300M in P.P. funding (which doesn't only go towards abortions)....Just sayin, he's off on this rants. Feel free to print this and share with him".
Rick, I love the feedback from you. Keep it coming. Hopefully, I can learn a few things from you and maybe you can get a different viewpoint from me. So here's my response:
1) I agree 100% with you. $100B or $38.5B really doesn't matter either way right now. Both amounts are pitiful compared to the national debt. But, given the situation that America is in right now, I would favor $100B rather than $38.5B. Personally, I don't see the budget as a Republican or Democratic issue. I see it as an American issue and I am for America, my kids, and my grand kids (if/when we have them). It's just that my simple little mind tells me that you can't continue to spend $100 when you only have $20 in your money clip. I think we need more cuts. I don't know all of the proposals in the Ryan budget cut proposal of $6-7 trillion, but I think that is a step in the right direction.
2) You wrote, "The GOP got more than $38.5B because they stripped out other money in the first few "continuing resolutions". Not according to the AP. The press and the Administration did a "bait and switch" over the weekend and praised Boehner, but on Tuesday of this week, the praise started going back to Obama. Why? Because he "duped" the Republicans. The AP reported yesterday that, "The historic $38 billion in budget cuts resulting from at-times hostile bargaining between Congress and the Obama White House were accomplished in large part by pruning money left over from previous years, using accounting sleight of hand and going after programs President Barack Obama had targeted anyway. The details of the agreement reached late Friday night just ahead of a deadline for a partial government shutdown reveal a lot of one-time savings and cuts that officially "score" as cuts to pay for spending elsewhere, but often have little to no actual impact on the deficit." In other words, the GOP didn't get as much as it first appeared. Obama and the Democrats won. America lost.
3) We may simply have a different opinion on abortion and I am sure that I can't convince you otherwise. However, for me, I can't save money at the expense of a human life. And I can't make a distinction between an unborn child, and say, and an elderly person. To me, both are human lives. Both could be termed "unwanted". The old retired person simply draws from the system and costs us money. But I have a 96 year-old grandad that I cherish and could never imagine terminating his life because he is unwanted and costs us money. The Germans thought the Jews were "unwanted" also.
In regards to Planned Parenthood, I simply don't want to pay for killing babies. If this issue is so important to people, tell them to hit people up like George Soros that have the money to fund every PP clinic in America, or donate themselves. I can't imagine the outcry of liberals if the government would purchase a gun for every adult in America or if the Left had to pay for mosques, churches, and synagogues. They wouldn't stand for it and they wouldn't allow it because they don't believe in it.
Also, 97% of the women entering PP get an abortion. 3% get "other healthcare services". In a study done recently, over 50 clinics were called inquiring about receiving a mammogram or cancer screening. 98% of the Planned Parenthood clinics responded saying that they don't provide those services.
And that is why I don't think I am off on this rant.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
HB 3200 - OBAMACARE
I understand why Nancy Pelosi urged Congress to pass Obamacare and read the details afterwards. You can pull up the Bill on the internet. Some interesting sections are as follows:
Page 50/section 152: The bill will provide insurance to all non-U.S. residents, even if they are here illegally.Why? I don't understand this provision except that it will get the Democrats more votes. And please don't tell me illegals cant/dont vote.
Page 58 and 59: The government will have real-time access to an individual's bank account and will have the authority to make electronic fund transfers from those accounts. What? Are you kidding me? I find this ridiculous.
Page 65/section 164: The plan will be subsidized (by the government) for all union members, union retirees and for community organizations (such as the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now - ACORN). Is it any wonder that the Union workers in Wisconsin were going nuts?!
Page 203/line 14-15: The tax imposed under this section will not be treated as a tax. How could anybody in their right mind come up with that?
Page 241 and 253: Doctors will all be paid the same regardless of specialty, and the government will set all doctors' fees. Now that's comforting. The guy that gives you mist to sniff up your nose for your allergies will be paid that same amount as the guy that drills a hole in your head.
Page 272. section 1145: Cancer hospital will ration care according to the patient's age. I have heard that the age "cutoff" for treatment is 76. Hang on Dad, you won't be able to go to M.D. Anderson and save your own life in a couple of years. THank God you got your cancer before Obama took office.
Page 317 and 321: The government will impose a prohibition on hospital expansion; however, communities may petition for an exception. Like it matters what the community wants.
Page 425, line 4-12: The government mandates advance-care planning consultations. Those on Social Security will be required to attend an "end-of-life planning" seminar every five years. (Death counseling..)
Page 429, line 13-25: The government will specify which doctors can write an end-of-life order. HAD ENOUGH????
"Finally, it is specifically stated that this bill will not apply to members of Congress. Members of Congress are already exempt from the Social Security system, and have a well-funded private plan that covers their retirement needs. If they were on our Social Security plan, I believe they would find a very quick 'fix' to make the plan financially sound for their future.- Honorable David Kithil of Marble Falls, Texas
Please contact your Congressional representative and let them know that this Bill must be repealed.
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Perfect Storm
The movie, A Perfect Storm, was released in 2000. The story begins in October 1991, when the Andrea Gail returns to port following a poor catch. Desperate for money, Captain Billy Tyne, convinces the Andrea Gail's crew to join him for one more late season fishing expedition. They head out past their usual fishing grounds, leaving a developing thunderstorm behind them. Things don't go very well though, until the crew ventures even further than normal and the fish start to hit. However, at the height of their catch, the ice machine breaks; the only way to sell their catch before it spoils is to hurry back to shore. After debating whether to sail through the building storm or to wait it out, the crew decides to risk the storm. With 40-foot waves crashing on to the deck, a broken stabilizer ramming the side of the ship, and two men thrown overboard, the crew decides to turn around to avoid further damage by the storm. The ship is immediately capsized by a huge wave and, after a short struggle, the boat goes to the depths of the sea and the crew is never seen again.
I thought the movie was a good movie. Most critics picked the movie apart, as usual. However, the thing that I liked most about the movie was the spectacular scenes in the storm. The cinematography was incredible and made you feel as though you were in the midst of a raging, terrible storm.
That is why I could better relate to the story of John Newton. Mr. Newton was a successful businessman in 1748. He owned his own ship and captained it himself. On May 10, 1748, his ship was in the middle of an incredible storm at sea, one I suppose like the storm depicted in the movie. Until that moment, Newton had never been "religious". However, as the storm raged on and grew even larger, Newton fell to his knees and begged for mercy. Immediately, the storm died down, and from that moment, Newton was a changed man.
That very moment changed his life forever, and ultimately the lives of millions. It took years, but eventually Newton changed professsions, from that of a very successful slave trader to minister.
And he also started to write hymns. One song of his, in particular, my grandmother loved. The song was a song about Newton's own life and starts:
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.
And as Paul Harvey used to say, now you know the rest of the story.
I thought the movie was a good movie. Most critics picked the movie apart, as usual. However, the thing that I liked most about the movie was the spectacular scenes in the storm. The cinematography was incredible and made you feel as though you were in the midst of a raging, terrible storm.
That is why I could better relate to the story of John Newton. Mr. Newton was a successful businessman in 1748. He owned his own ship and captained it himself. On May 10, 1748, his ship was in the middle of an incredible storm at sea, one I suppose like the storm depicted in the movie. Until that moment, Newton had never been "religious". However, as the storm raged on and grew even larger, Newton fell to his knees and begged for mercy. Immediately, the storm died down, and from that moment, Newton was a changed man.
That very moment changed his life forever, and ultimately the lives of millions. It took years, but eventually Newton changed professsions, from that of a very successful slave trader to minister.
And he also started to write hymns. One song of his, in particular, my grandmother loved. The song was a song about Newton's own life and starts:
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see.
And as Paul Harvey used to say, now you know the rest of the story.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
I am not a Republican!
Boehner and Company ( the Republicans) caved last night. In November, they promised the American voter $100 billion in cuts. When the negotiating started, the Democrats claimed a "drop dead" number of $40 billion. And it was reported this morning that a budget deal was reached at $38.5 billion. The Rebublicans blinked. And really that is no surprise to me anymore.
House Speaker John Boehner had the political world in his hands, but as unthinkable as it is for a fighter ahead on points to throw in the towel and quit, Boehner did just that, saving himself for a tougher rematch instead…A much tougher fight than the one he conceded.
Former President Harry Truman coined the phrase, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” Speaker Boehner shed tears when he stepped into the Speakership but now true Conservatives are in tears.
Boehner tossed away the winning hand for vague promises that Planned Parenthood funding would come up for a separate vote, a vote that is a mirage because President Obama will certainly veto any such legislation. Another promise was to bring up the HealthCare plan for a separate vote…Same final result…Presidential veto.
Speaker Boehner acted like an incumbent seeking re-election rather than like a soldier on the field of battle who sacrifices himself to save his buddies. Boehner gave up his most valuable card, the value of human life sacrificed on the altar of Planned Parenthood that gives sacrificial offerings to the gods of death, 330,000 babies aborted each year, funded partly by $300 Million of taxpayer money.
I am tired of being on the side that caves. I am tired of supporting liars. I am a conservative, but I no longer consider myself a Republican.
House Speaker John Boehner had the political world in his hands, but as unthinkable as it is for a fighter ahead on points to throw in the towel and quit, Boehner did just that, saving himself for a tougher rematch instead…A much tougher fight than the one he conceded.
Former President Harry Truman coined the phrase, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” Speaker Boehner shed tears when he stepped into the Speakership but now true Conservatives are in tears.
Boehner tossed away the winning hand for vague promises that Planned Parenthood funding would come up for a separate vote, a vote that is a mirage because President Obama will certainly veto any such legislation. Another promise was to bring up the HealthCare plan for a separate vote…Same final result…Presidential veto.
Speaker Boehner acted like an incumbent seeking re-election rather than like a soldier on the field of battle who sacrifices himself to save his buddies. Boehner gave up his most valuable card, the value of human life sacrificed on the altar of Planned Parenthood that gives sacrificial offerings to the gods of death, 330,000 babies aborted each year, funded partly by $300 Million of taxpayer money.
I am tired of being on the side that caves. I am tired of supporting liars. I am a conservative, but I no longer consider myself a Republican.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Simplicity
Until I left for college, I attended the same church every Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday night. Without exception, a boy who was mentally-challenged would find me, give me a hug, and talk to me about his life. I loved those moments because everything with Ricky (later he demanded to be called Richard) was so pure and simple and honest. If Richard was feeling happy, he would tell you. If he was feeling sad, he would tell you. And if he liked or disliked something, in a matter of fact way, he would let you know.
But in today's society, we often don't get the plain truth. We often tell some sophisticated story in order to place blame or practice avoidance regarding the real issue. Wouldn't it be refreshing not to have to guess what someone was really thinking? Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't have to play games with words so that people wouldn't think we were unkind or not caring?
The older I get, the more I appreciate simplicity rather than sophistication. I wonder what our world would start to look like if we stopped covering things up with distraction and manipulation and spin?
But in today's society, we often don't get the plain truth. We often tell some sophisticated story in order to place blame or practice avoidance regarding the real issue. Wouldn't it be refreshing not to have to guess what someone was really thinking? Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't have to play games with words so that people wouldn't think we were unkind or not caring?
The older I get, the more I appreciate simplicity rather than sophistication. I wonder what our world would start to look like if we stopped covering things up with distraction and manipulation and spin?
Thursday, April 7, 2011
April 7, 1974
It was a Sunday night as I recall. I made the long walk (or what seemed like a long walk) from the funeral home parking lot to our little church in East Peoria, IL. We crossed the main road and into a "revival" church service. I don't remember who spoke exactly, but I do remember Reverend Timm being there.
Growing up, I wasn't the best kid in church. I remember being young and feeling compelled to stand up in the pew and help the pastor preach. My parents and grandparents weren't to keen on the idea though. I also remember waiting until the "best" possible moment and dashing under the pews, trying to see how far I could crawl until someone caught me and sent me back. Usually, this resulted in a quick trip to the downstairs bathroom where I would be instructed to pull my pants down, touch my ankles, and have some belt therapy applied. Most of the time it worked, but sometimes the DNA and my Irish and Scottish heritage would take over and I would be just stubborn enough to go upstairs and repeat the actions that got me to the basement bathroom in the first place. And back down to the basement my dad and I would go, repeating this crazy cycle over and over again. After being a father for nearly twenty one years now, I completely understand why my father has grey hair. Sorry Dad!
But this night, April 7, 1974, was special for me. Something stirred my heart and I felt like I should make a conscious decision to live my life for Jesus. So after the service, I asked Pastor Timm if we could meet in his pastor's study. He did and we prayed a little prayer.
For thirty seven years, I have been a Christian. And for some reason after all these years, I am still trying to dodge under the pew, sometimes I try to help with the preaching (when I shouldn't), and I definitely am having to take many, many trips to the bathroom for belt therapy.
So today, my hope and prayer is to stop being so stubborn so that I can quit repeating this crazy cycle over and over again.
Growing up, I wasn't the best kid in church. I remember being young and feeling compelled to stand up in the pew and help the pastor preach. My parents and grandparents weren't to keen on the idea though. I also remember waiting until the "best" possible moment and dashing under the pews, trying to see how far I could crawl until someone caught me and sent me back. Usually, this resulted in a quick trip to the downstairs bathroom where I would be instructed to pull my pants down, touch my ankles, and have some belt therapy applied. Most of the time it worked, but sometimes the DNA and my Irish and Scottish heritage would take over and I would be just stubborn enough to go upstairs and repeat the actions that got me to the basement bathroom in the first place. And back down to the basement my dad and I would go, repeating this crazy cycle over and over again. After being a father for nearly twenty one years now, I completely understand why my father has grey hair. Sorry Dad!
But this night, April 7, 1974, was special for me. Something stirred my heart and I felt like I should make a conscious decision to live my life for Jesus. So after the service, I asked Pastor Timm if we could meet in his pastor's study. He did and we prayed a little prayer.
For thirty seven years, I have been a Christian. And for some reason after all these years, I am still trying to dodge under the pew, sometimes I try to help with the preaching (when I shouldn't), and I definitely am having to take many, many trips to the bathroom for belt therapy.
So today, my hope and prayer is to stop being so stubborn so that I can quit repeating this crazy cycle over and over again.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
"Give me your tired, your poor?" No Thanks!
From my understanding, most of my ancestors immigrated from Ireland, Scotland, and Sweden. I am sure that there is a myriad of various countries that I could add to that list, however, these "big three" get most of the credit in my family tree.
I am very thankful that my ancestors were welcomed at Ellis Island and made the United States of America their home. From Kentucky to Iowa to Illinois, they all settled in, worked hard, and provided for their families the best they could. In that day, the plan worked very well. The tired and downtrodden were necessary 100 years ago when we had a manufacturing economy based on raw manpower. And even then there were strict controls to prevent people coming illegally, with over 25% of immigrants entering Ellis Island sent home.
A few weeks go, I had several new sales that needed to be turned in before the quarter's end. I pulled the managerial staff together and devised a plan to allow our plant workers the opportunity to work overtime and gain some extra money. A "no-brainer" in today's economy right? Wrong. No one wanted to work extra hours. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't understand why not. And then I got an explanation that hit me right between the eyes. I was told that, if our workers put in extra time and earned extra money, that it would affect their government support. In other words, their precious entitlements might not pay quite so much if they were to earn extra money.
So I did some research and the numbers are shocking. Fifty-seven percent of households headed by an immigrant (legal and illegal) with children (under 18) used at least one welfare program, compared to 39 percent for native households with children (which is alarmingly high in itself). The highest rates are for families headed by an immigrant from the Dominican Republic (82 percent using welfare) and Mexico and Guatemala (75 percent). The states with the highest rates are Arizona, Texas, California, and New York (61–62 percent) — which, unfortunately, are also the top states of immigrant settlement. For immigrant households with four or more children, 81 percent are using welfare, as are 80 percent of households with children that are headed by an immigrant without a high school degree.
In addition, the Fresno county city of San Joaquin has a higher share of children under 18 than any other California city, 41 percent compared to the state average of 25 percent. Orange Cove has the second-highest share of children. Both cities are over 95 percent Hispanic, and both have per capita incomes lower than the per capita income of Mexico, which was $10,000 in 2009, or $14,000 at purchasing power parity. Per capita income in San Joaquin was $8,000, and $7,500 in Orange Cove.
Quite alarming. Immigrants have figured out that they can come to America, have children, be susidized for everything by you and me, and not have to work. I understand that there are exceptions, however, when you look at the percentages that I have listed in the previous two paragraphs, it is clear to me that illegals and other immigrants aren't coming here to take jobs that Americans won't take.
America today is a wealthy country in a competitive global economy where our prosperity is always in danger of being toppled. I cannot understand why so many Americans, in spite of the clear evidence presented by California's fall from grace, seem bent on a less-educated, less-wealthy future. In the end, this problem is not about common sense or morals, or providing a helping hand. It is about power to the Democratic party. In other words, Democrats need people to be needy and dependant, not productive and self-sustaining.
I am very thankful that my ancestors were welcomed at Ellis Island and made the United States of America their home. From Kentucky to Iowa to Illinois, they all settled in, worked hard, and provided for their families the best they could. In that day, the plan worked very well. The tired and downtrodden were necessary 100 years ago when we had a manufacturing economy based on raw manpower. And even then there were strict controls to prevent people coming illegally, with over 25% of immigrants entering Ellis Island sent home.
A few weeks go, I had several new sales that needed to be turned in before the quarter's end. I pulled the managerial staff together and devised a plan to allow our plant workers the opportunity to work overtime and gain some extra money. A "no-brainer" in today's economy right? Wrong. No one wanted to work extra hours. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't understand why not. And then I got an explanation that hit me right between the eyes. I was told that, if our workers put in extra time and earned extra money, that it would affect their government support. In other words, their precious entitlements might not pay quite so much if they were to earn extra money.
So I did some research and the numbers are shocking. Fifty-seven percent of households headed by an immigrant (legal and illegal) with children (under 18) used at least one welfare program, compared to 39 percent for native households with children (which is alarmingly high in itself). The highest rates are for families headed by an immigrant from the Dominican Republic (82 percent using welfare) and Mexico and Guatemala (75 percent). The states with the highest rates are Arizona, Texas, California, and New York (61–62 percent) — which, unfortunately, are also the top states of immigrant settlement. For immigrant households with four or more children, 81 percent are using welfare, as are 80 percent of households with children that are headed by an immigrant without a high school degree.
In addition, the Fresno county city of San Joaquin has a higher share of children under 18 than any other California city, 41 percent compared to the state average of 25 percent. Orange Cove has the second-highest share of children. Both cities are over 95 percent Hispanic, and both have per capita incomes lower than the per capita income of Mexico, which was $10,000 in 2009, or $14,000 at purchasing power parity. Per capita income in San Joaquin was $8,000, and $7,500 in Orange Cove.
Quite alarming. Immigrants have figured out that they can come to America, have children, be susidized for everything by you and me, and not have to work. I understand that there are exceptions, however, when you look at the percentages that I have listed in the previous two paragraphs, it is clear to me that illegals and other immigrants aren't coming here to take jobs that Americans won't take.
America today is a wealthy country in a competitive global economy where our prosperity is always in danger of being toppled. I cannot understand why so many Americans, in spite of the clear evidence presented by California's fall from grace, seem bent on a less-educated, less-wealthy future. In the end, this problem is not about common sense or morals, or providing a helping hand. It is about power to the Democratic party. In other words, Democrats need people to be needy and dependant, not productive and self-sustaining.
And if this issue isn't at the forefront in the 2012 election, we'll not only fail to fix our spending addiction, we'll leave the country in a perilous state and, most likely, without the means to ever right itself again.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
What's the Plan, Stan?
There was a time in my life when things came so easily and I didn't think or plan the "next" step. It just happened. For example, when I got fed up with an employer and was thinking about making a switch, I got a call out of the blue to take a position that was a step up both fiscally and in responsibility. Then that faucet seemed to turn off. Things didn't (and still don't) come easily and things don't have a purpose.
So I decided to plan. I had a one year, five year, ten year, twenty year,and twenty-five year plan. It included everything from physical goals (weight, fitness levels, eating plans), mental goals ( reading, time alone, thinking), and spiritual goals (reading the bible, praying, tithing). But I didn't stop there. I had marital goals and plans, fiscal goals, and material goals. Any type of goal and plan you could think of, I had it planned. And in writing. And things were going very, very well. I thought I had tapped into something really helpful. I had things figured out. And then, I started having marital problems and then the money tree dried up due to something beyond my control. I take responsibility for both of these things but outside factors happened that I did not plan on happening.
And that's the point. What happens when you have your life planned and doctors find cancer in your body? What happens when your spouse and you have grown apart and another man or woman seems like a better fit and a better option? What happens when the company you are working for goes out of business? Unless you are very different than the average American, you don't plan for these things. And they can change your life dramatically.
So what are we to do? I dont know. I haven't gotten to the point that I can plan again. And, in my case, it didn't help to plan. To look back on some of my plans and goals that I had listed for 2011 is simply a joke. I am no closer to any physical, mental, spiritual, fiscal, or marital goals than I was before I started planning.
So what's the plan, Stan? I dont know but maybe the solution is to simply take action (like I mentioned in one of my blogs).
So I decided to plan. I had a one year, five year, ten year, twenty year,and twenty-five year plan. It included everything from physical goals (weight, fitness levels, eating plans), mental goals ( reading, time alone, thinking), and spiritual goals (reading the bible, praying, tithing). But I didn't stop there. I had marital goals and plans, fiscal goals, and material goals. Any type of goal and plan you could think of, I had it planned. And in writing. And things were going very, very well. I thought I had tapped into something really helpful. I had things figured out. And then, I started having marital problems and then the money tree dried up due to something beyond my control. I take responsibility for both of these things but outside factors happened that I did not plan on happening.
And that's the point. What happens when you have your life planned and doctors find cancer in your body? What happens when your spouse and you have grown apart and another man or woman seems like a better fit and a better option? What happens when the company you are working for goes out of business? Unless you are very different than the average American, you don't plan for these things. And they can change your life dramatically.
So what are we to do? I dont know. I haven't gotten to the point that I can plan again. And, in my case, it didn't help to plan. To look back on some of my plans and goals that I had listed for 2011 is simply a joke. I am no closer to any physical, mental, spiritual, fiscal, or marital goals than I was before I started planning.
So what's the plan, Stan? I dont know but maybe the solution is to simply take action (like I mentioned in one of my blogs).
Monday, April 4, 2011
Budget Politics as Usual
Yesterday morning I watched an early morning political show on television. My ears perked up when the host started an interview with Harry Reid. Without going into the boring details, Bob Sheffer and Harry Reid were talking about Congress being shut down if no agreements (compromises) can be made regarding the budget. Reid commented saying that the Democrats and Republicans are not the problem with the budget. Both of these parties are willing to compromise. Reid said that the radical Tea Party is the problem. He says the Tea Party is fading in popularity "because the American people sees how unreasonable they are. So let me reiterate my hope that the Republican leadership recognizes they can't continue to be pulled to the right by the radical, unrealistic, unreasonable…faction: the Tea Party." Any time Harry Reid starts to talk about a group of people like that I am naturally attracted to them.
The budget can be very confusing when Congress starts talking about billions and trillions of dollars. My small brain doesn't compute numbers like that. But, here's what I do understand. The Democrats want to cut $20 billion. The Congressional budget is $4 billion per day. So the Democrats want to cut one week's worth of money. That's it. The numbers seem astronomically high, however, when you consider what is really being cut, the numbers don't even make a dent in the budget.
If you didn’t hear about it, Sen. Charles Schumer was caught on an open mic telling his fellow Democrats he was told to use words like “extreme” when referring to proposed Republican budget cuts. Former Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean said he wants a government shutdown, thinking it would be blamed on Republicans. Shumer and Dean think it's good for elections, so who the heck cares about what is good for America.
We hear words from Democrats like “draconian,” “extreme” and “drastic”. “Going the wrong way,” is the wording used when referring to the $61 billion Republicans (the Tea Party) want to cut from the 2011 budget, a budget Democrats failed to pass in September.
Some facts are in order. Discretionary spending has increased 24 percent since President Barack Obama took office, and the debt has been raised by more than $3 trillion. The government is “borrowing” $4 billion a day, in large part by buying its own debt.
Our debt stands at more than $14 trillion. We are expected to be well over $20 trillion in debt if Obama serves two terms. And Democrats think a cut of $61 billion is draconian, extreme or drastic.
I wonder what words Democrats would use if Republicans were to really get serious about lowering the debt?
I'm starting to think the Republicans are just as spineless as the Democrats when it comes to the budget. The Tea Party is looking good to me right now. Anyone for some cream and sugar?
The budget can be very confusing when Congress starts talking about billions and trillions of dollars. My small brain doesn't compute numbers like that. But, here's what I do understand. The Democrats want to cut $20 billion. The Congressional budget is $4 billion per day. So the Democrats want to cut one week's worth of money. That's it. The numbers seem astronomically high, however, when you consider what is really being cut, the numbers don't even make a dent in the budget.
If you didn’t hear about it, Sen. Charles Schumer was caught on an open mic telling his fellow Democrats he was told to use words like “extreme” when referring to proposed Republican budget cuts. Former Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean said he wants a government shutdown, thinking it would be blamed on Republicans. Shumer and Dean think it's good for elections, so who the heck cares about what is good for America.
We hear words from Democrats like “draconian,” “extreme” and “drastic”. “Going the wrong way,” is the wording used when referring to the $61 billion Republicans (the Tea Party) want to cut from the 2011 budget, a budget Democrats failed to pass in September.
Some facts are in order. Discretionary spending has increased 24 percent since President Barack Obama took office, and the debt has been raised by more than $3 trillion. The government is “borrowing” $4 billion a day, in large part by buying its own debt.
Our debt stands at more than $14 trillion. We are expected to be well over $20 trillion in debt if Obama serves two terms. And Democrats think a cut of $61 billion is draconian, extreme or drastic.
I wonder what words Democrats would use if Republicans were to really get serious about lowering the debt?
I'm starting to think the Republicans are just as spineless as the Democrats when it comes to the budget. The Tea Party is looking good to me right now. Anyone for some cream and sugar?
Sunday, April 3, 2011
The No Blog Blog
Today, I've been easy like Sunday morning.
Yesterday was an awesome day. Josh had a fantastic 800m race that was courageous, inspiring, and just down right fast. His coaches (and Mom and Dad) were thrilled. He overcame some adversity before the race and put it all behind him to show some real mental toughness. Spenny boy and his band, The WhiteWall Gentlemen' won the Nashville region contest of College Battle of the Bands and will play now at the Hard Rock Cafe on April 12th to advance to another playing culminating in Los Angeles. They also finished their new EP (that's the equivalent of a record for us old folks).
And today? Well today I am resting. It's a wonderful sunny, 83 degree day and I am taking a Sunday ride out in the country with my better half. Sometimes it just feels good to take a break and get away.
I have some blogs that are in an edit phase and waiting for "posting", so visit me again tomorrow for a new blog.
See you tomorrow.
Yesterday was an awesome day. Josh had a fantastic 800m race that was courageous, inspiring, and just down right fast. His coaches (and Mom and Dad) were thrilled. He overcame some adversity before the race and put it all behind him to show some real mental toughness. Spenny boy and his band, The WhiteWall Gentlemen' won the Nashville region contest of College Battle of the Bands and will play now at the Hard Rock Cafe on April 12th to advance to another playing culminating in Los Angeles. They also finished their new EP (that's the equivalent of a record for us old folks).
And today? Well today I am resting. It's a wonderful sunny, 83 degree day and I am taking a Sunday ride out in the country with my better half. Sometimes it just feels good to take a break and get away.
I have some blogs that are in an edit phase and waiting for "posting", so visit me again tomorrow for a new blog.
See you tomorrow.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
A Saturday Morning
I like Saturday mornings. No expectations for work, I get to be at home, and the early mornings are so peaceful. Before the days events unfold (track meet and honey-do's), I made a cup of hot tea, and decided to do some reading. I also ventured outside for a short walk to feel the crisp morning air. Besides the birds singing their morning songs, there was silence. No cars, no people, and only an occasional opossum and cat wandering the streets. Saturday mornings give me time to unwind. I get to think and reflect on Saturday mornings.
I like to take times like this morning to look back in reflection and forward in anticipation. Looking back on the week, it was tough. There were several problems to correct, people to motivate, meetings to analyze, and tough decisions to make. But now, on Saturday morning, I am at peace with the week, the decisions that were made, and the results of my actions and decisions.
Looking forward, I have decided that I am going to focus on preparations for the future. I do a poor job of preparing for the worst and expecting the best. I am determined to live more like this.
I have also decided that I want to hunt. I love the idea. I just have never taken the time to learn the skill. I love to be outside in the woods. I love the challenge of pitting myself against nature and a wild animal. I spoke to my brother, Matt, about hunting yesterday, and he spoke very passionately about hunting. I love his passion for this hobby and I hope that I can feel the same things he feels when hunting.
So the morning is getting later now. The TV is on, my wife is up, the dogs need to be taken out, and soon Joshy will be up and preparing for his meet. And I am glad to get the day rolling and anticipate the feeling of accomplishment I will feel later when I get things done.
But for awhile this morning, it was good to just live in the moment and savor a Saturday morning.
I like to take times like this morning to look back in reflection and forward in anticipation. Looking back on the week, it was tough. There were several problems to correct, people to motivate, meetings to analyze, and tough decisions to make. But now, on Saturday morning, I am at peace with the week, the decisions that were made, and the results of my actions and decisions.
Looking forward, I have decided that I am going to focus on preparations for the future. I do a poor job of preparing for the worst and expecting the best. I am determined to live more like this.
I have also decided that I want to hunt. I love the idea. I just have never taken the time to learn the skill. I love to be outside in the woods. I love the challenge of pitting myself against nature and a wild animal. I spoke to my brother, Matt, about hunting yesterday, and he spoke very passionately about hunting. I love his passion for this hobby and I hope that I can feel the same things he feels when hunting.
So the morning is getting later now. The TV is on, my wife is up, the dogs need to be taken out, and soon Joshy will be up and preparing for his meet. And I am glad to get the day rolling and anticipate the feeling of accomplishment I will feel later when I get things done.
But for awhile this morning, it was good to just live in the moment and savor a Saturday morning.
Friday, April 1, 2011
The Sky is Falling, The Sky is Falling
Nowadays, it is hard for me to stay positive. There is so much going on in our country and around the world that it sometimes seems hopeless. I have blogged about several of the issues that I am referring to now.
I believe Obama and his Administration are terrible for our country. His foreign policy, his domestic policy, his view of the U.S., and his ideology are for the most part 180 degrees opposite of mine. But, I am an "ordinary Joe". What do I know? Do some research on your own. You will find economic scholars and historians will tell you we are in big trouble.
Just to name a few things. The debt that we have incurred and now owe the world is astounding. I read recently that if every tax-payer in America paid 100% of their wages, we would still be in debt. Gas prices are projected to be $5.00 per gallon within 9 months, food prices are escalating rapidly, our freedoms are being taken away, the housing crisis is getting worse (as of this week, the U.S. has more homes that are uninhabited than any other previous time in history), we have endless unemployment, and earthquake and tsunami occurrences are happening more often and are reeking havoc on parts of the world. Unfortunately, I feel like I am starting to sound like Glen Beck. I have listened to Glen Beck a few times, and while I think he is able to connect the dots and seems to make sense with some things, it can be downright depressing listening to him.
And then, through an unexpected avenue, I gained some perspective and some hope. I have been doing research for my book about my grandfather's life. He was born in 1914, so naturally I have been looking into the Great Depression. From 1929 through 1941, things seemed very bleak for most Americans. During that time, 50% of all children did not receive adequate food, shelter, or medical care. 750,000 farmers declared bankruptcy. The unemployment rate reached 24.9%, with some areas being hit especially hard such as Toledo, Ohio having experienced 80% unemployment. Tough times indeed. And we are not that bad.......yet.
But most economic scholars find the 2009-2011 economic condition more troubling than that of the 1930s' Great Depression. Why? Because debt in 2011 includes not only stocks but also millions of homes, property, local governments, and entire nations. Also, in contrast to the 1930s, the U.S. is now a debtor nation and more households in the U.S. are in far greater debt.
So while I don't think we should run around declaring the sky is falling, I do believe that we need to prepare for the worst while having expectations for the best.
Uh-oh, am I just suffering from "normalcy-bias"? More about this new buzzword later.
I believe Obama and his Administration are terrible for our country. His foreign policy, his domestic policy, his view of the U.S., and his ideology are for the most part 180 degrees opposite of mine. But, I am an "ordinary Joe". What do I know? Do some research on your own. You will find economic scholars and historians will tell you we are in big trouble.
Just to name a few things. The debt that we have incurred and now owe the world is astounding. I read recently that if every tax-payer in America paid 100% of their wages, we would still be in debt. Gas prices are projected to be $5.00 per gallon within 9 months, food prices are escalating rapidly, our freedoms are being taken away, the housing crisis is getting worse (as of this week, the U.S. has more homes that are uninhabited than any other previous time in history), we have endless unemployment, and earthquake and tsunami occurrences are happening more often and are reeking havoc on parts of the world. Unfortunately, I feel like I am starting to sound like Glen Beck. I have listened to Glen Beck a few times, and while I think he is able to connect the dots and seems to make sense with some things, it can be downright depressing listening to him.
And then, through an unexpected avenue, I gained some perspective and some hope. I have been doing research for my book about my grandfather's life. He was born in 1914, so naturally I have been looking into the Great Depression. From 1929 through 1941, things seemed very bleak for most Americans. During that time, 50% of all children did not receive adequate food, shelter, or medical care. 750,000 farmers declared bankruptcy. The unemployment rate reached 24.9%, with some areas being hit especially hard such as Toledo, Ohio having experienced 80% unemployment. Tough times indeed. And we are not that bad.......yet.
But most economic scholars find the 2009-2011 economic condition more troubling than that of the 1930s' Great Depression. Why? Because debt in 2011 includes not only stocks but also millions of homes, property, local governments, and entire nations. Also, in contrast to the 1930s, the U.S. is now a debtor nation and more households in the U.S. are in far greater debt.
So while I don't think we should run around declaring the sky is falling, I do believe that we need to prepare for the worst while having expectations for the best.
Uh-oh, am I just suffering from "normalcy-bias"? More about this new buzzword later.
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