School Daze

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't it the purpose of "higher education" to educate and prepare students for skilled and upper level careers in the "real" world? I was under the impression that people attended colleges and universities to acquire the knowledge and expertise to get ahead in their chosen fields.

To my way of thinking, this training should occasionally include bringing in guest speakers whom have already achieved and succeeded in some aspect of life.  The purpose for this, is to share their insights and pass on things they may have discovered along their own journey.

It should also include real diversity, and differing view points, to give everyone a more rounded and informed opinion on any given topic. You can't  truly claim to be knowledgeable or skilled in an area, if you're only exposed to one side of the subject. People tend to learn more from those they disagree with, than those who share their beliefs. (It either challenges and reinforces, or completely changes your views.)

I'm starting to see institutions of higher education as a predatory, indoctrinating waste of time and money. They are places where people go to amass massive amounts of debt few will ever be able to pay back, while being totally immersed in one-sided propaganda, intended to indoctrinate and kill critical, independent thinking.

Today's students are being taught wrong-minded lessons about how everyone gets a trophy, how they don't have to listen to opinions they were taught not to agree with, and how everyone (including their parents) are evil monsters for disagreeing with them.

Most of these schools' administrators and faculty have spent so much time coddling them, they've lost control. They're now in the business of placating and providing "safe spaces", rather than seriously teaching.  And, if they dare to say anything that even slightly goes against the will of the collective, they're shouted down and attacked  (the same way they taught the students to treat others).

It's sad, pathetic and disgusting. They are supposed to be the so-called "adults" in the room. It's their job (and duty) to teach not only skills, but discipline and true conflict resolution.

The college generation of today, isn't going to be anywhere near prepared to make it in the real world, once they're forced to leave the safety and security of school. They're already proving they can't handle facing and confronting opinions and ideas other than their own.

Hate to break it to you, butter cups, but there aren't any "safe spaces" when you have to pay your own bills, and put food on your own table. People aren't just going to give up their right to speak, simply because it hurts your delicate little snowflake feelings.

Once you leave the ivory towers (sorry to all the elephant lovers out there) of your little fantasy world, you're going to get a real education... you're going to learn that, not everyone shares you beliefs, and most don't give a damn about you feelings. (Which includes all the politicians and activists you look up to, a depend upon to tell you how to think.)

It may sound cold and harsh, and I'm certain many of you don't like it, or agree... However, it's a badly needed dose of truth for a world that's been without it for far too long.

And, if it offends you, or hurts you feelings
.. tough. Suck it up, and move on.

Time To Grow Up

As a father of three, you can bet that I know a temper tantrum when I see one. Trust me, I know all about the "Hold-your-breath-till-you-get-your-way", or the "Kick-and-scream-that-it's-not-fair". Let's not forget my personal favorite: the ever popular, "Blame-others-to-get-ourself-out-of-trouble", mixed with a side of "Shout-over-others-so-they-can't-speak-or-tell-their-side".

Yes, I've seen them all, more than once.

Which is why, I can safely tell you that the mainstream media, and the Regressive Left (not to mention, a few Conservatives), are in full-on hissy-fit mode over Donald Trump.

I mean, come on... It's been eight months, since the man was fairly elected President. The sky hasn't fallen, we haven't nuked anyone off the planet, and the global temperatures haven't risen. Somehow, we're all still here, and (despite baseless claims to the contrary) the numbers show our economy is improving rapidly.

Look, I get it. He wasn't my first choice either. But, let's get real here...

He hasn't done nearly as bad as most predicted, and has accomplished far more than they give him credit for.

As for all the other "scandals" (mainly, the collusion with Russia during the elections), it's been nearly a year of nonstop "investigations", and still no real evidence. As a matter of fact, all the signs point to his opponents actually violating the law (stealing classified information, and illegally unmasking classified names) to get "proof". Yet, they're still empty handed.

You want to oppose his policies? Fine, disagree with them. Just stop making up crap to pin on him, especially when your side is guilty of the same things, or worse. (I'm talking about you, Hillary Clinton and Elizabeth Warren.) Stop throwing a tantrum like a spoiled two year old in a candy store ( all you "safe space", Regressive college cry babies). And, quit putting your political views ahead of the safety and well being of the nation (Senators John McCain and Chuck Schumer, and the anti-deportation/"Muslim ban" crowd).

We're facing some really tough times ahead, and none were actually caused by Trump. In fact, most are messes left by the previous administration, or even the one before that. The only way we're going to get through them, is to roll up our collective sleeves, swallow a lot of pride, and work together for real solutions.

You don't like what Trump offers? Fine. Listen to his proposals,  then civilly present a realistic idea of your own. Debate (equally and fairly) both sides without all the biased, juvenile nonsense. May the best idea win. That is the only way we're all going to get through these issues.

Radical Islam

Evil must be stopped...

I've had a writing project that centers around this one, simple phrase for some time now. However,  I'm discovering that it applies to the world we live in today. 

And, that it's deceptively simplistic. 

The concept hinges around understanding the difference between not only good and evil, but right and wrong. (No, the two are not the same. One can be wrong, without being evil.)  Then, having the courage and wisdom to do something about it.

One of the core reasons for writing this blog, for instance, is to correct wrongness when I find it (and have the time and ability to address it). Every now and then, I find I have to confront not just wrong thinking or beliefs, but true evil.

Take the world's current struggles with terrorism and radical Islam...

I am a Christian,  and a firm believer in Christ. However, I accept that not everyone shares my values and faith. I sincerely wish they would,  and am happy to help those whom wish to know more. But, everyone is entitled to their own views, even if I think they're wrong.

I try to follow the teachings of Jesus, and live my life accordingly. (I may not always succeed, but I am trying.) 

Anyway, despite claims by some, modern Christianity isn't violent, or about condemnation. We don't force people into following our religion at the point of a sword, or the barrel of a gun. (I dare say, that if that were the practice, it'd be time to find a new faith.)

Radical Islam isn't just wrong, it's evil. It'sfollowers are taught to conquer and murder innocents in the name of a corrupted, monstrous version of the one true God (both Allah and Jehova or the Christian God, are one in the same, the God of Abraham.)

This is not an attack on all Muslims, nor is it any sort of "Islamaphobia". I have known several Muslims whom were peaceful, loving people.

However, if your "God" is commanding you to behead innocent people, based on their belief; or blow up concerts filled with children; or gun down/run over crowds of unarmed tourists... He is a monster, and unworthy of worship or praise.

And, if you're willing to commit these acts without hesitation or second thoughts, there is something seriously wrong with you. For the good of not only humanity, but your family and yourself, please seek medical help immediately. 

As for how the rest of the world should deal with groups like ISIS, there is no simple, quick answer. Bombs and bullets won't completely eliminate the threat. (In fact, it seems to win over a few that are a "special" kind of stupid.) Yet, we can't simply hug or ignore them away either. (sometimes, force is required to get your point across.)

It seems to me, that the answer lies somewhere in the middle. America, and her allies, should be prepared to fight and kill when necessary. But, we should also try to take a more enlightened approach,  through outreach, education and aid for those oppressed under ISIS rule. Trying only one, or the other, isn't going to work, we need both.

The American Muslim community claims they are being discriminated against, and "Islamaphobia" is on the rise. But, what are they doing to distance themselves from the extremists, and educate the public on knowing the difference? (Answer: very little.) Every great now and then you see an Imam speaking out, but it's rare. 

If you want to stop ignorance, you need to teach and enlighten. You need to be out front, showing the world the difference between you and the bad guys, while exposing them wherever they try to hide amongst you. Only then will there be peace and understanding. 

Same Old Regressive Tricks...

The recent story of "comedian" (term used very loosely) Kathy Griffin's failed attempt at political comedy, her premeditated apology and the insane aftermath, is neither new, nor surprising.

For those of you who may not know what I'm talking about... Never-was (has-been would give her far too much credit) comedian Kathy Griffin released a picture of her holding the life-like, bloodied and severed head of President Trump. Unfortunately for her, a video of the preparation for the photo shoot was released at the same time. 

In the video, Griffin is discussing the shoot with her photographer, telling him that they'll take the picture, then she'll make an apology,  and he may have to move to Mexico. All of this was done before  the picture was even taken.

Once the image was released, a disheveled, and makeupless Griffin appeared, right on cue, to apologize  (but not to Trump or his family directly). The apology was better scripted and rehearsed than any comedy routine she had ever done. It was absolutely robotic. 

President Trump responded  (on Twitter,  of course), by calling the photo, and her attempt at comedy, "disgusting", and saying his family (particularly his youngest son, Baron) was extremely upset by the image. (Who wouldn't be?)

Barely a day later, Griffin is back in front of the cameras, calling Trump and his family "bullies". Sobbing (unconvincingly), she claims to be bullied by the President and his family, and that she's "broken".

As I stated before,  this little ploy isn't anything new. It's a tactic the Left uses regularly,  especially since Trumps election. 

Step 1... say or do something incredibly offensive and disgusting.  Step 2... apologize, if there's any kind of backlash.  Step 3... Play the victim, and demonize the offended party. It's right out of the Sal Alinsky playbook, and there's nothing Regressives are better at (aside from spending other people's money) than playing the victim.

Not surprisingly, she's lost her job at CNN (she does the New Years show with Anderson Cooper every year), and just about any sponsors or public appearances she had. This was due to her actions (Not Trump's) and the decisions of all those whom let her go.

I believe firmly in the First Amendment, and that it applies to all U.S. citizens (even those I disagree with). I don't believe that she should be fired. However, she (like so many others) needs to learn that you can't have freedom,  without consequences. That's called anarchy or chaos.

I'm back (sort of)

Due to computer issues, I haven't been able to post anything in quite a while.  This has given me time to think  (which can be a very dangerous thing).

My tech issues still aren't fully resolved, so I won't be able to post as much, or as often as I would like. But, I will try to make an effort.

Stay tuned...

Choose Your Battles

Okay, so we get it... You're not happy because Donald Trump won the election, and you're worried about all the things he promised to do during the campaign. Fine, we get it.

But, that doesn't give you the right to riot in the streets, and burn down businesses and neighborhoods like a bunch of animals on a rampage. It doesn't give the press the right to make up any story they can about him or his family, and then whine when he fights back.

You know, Jesus once said, "Before you complain about the speck in my eye, you should first remove the plank from yours."

Yes, Donald Trump hasn't always been honest with the facts. But then, neither has the media. And, to my knowledge, they've been lying and twisting the truth a lot longer than he has.

As a matter of fact, as I write this, there are calls for an investigation into whether members of Trump's campaign worked with the Russians to hack the Democrats' emails and sway the election. There is evidence that Attorney General Jeff Sessions (a Senator at the time) met with a Russian Ambassador and didn't report it. There's no proof that they discussed anything illegal, but Sessions recused himself because of how it looked.

And now we find out, it wasn't just Sessions. Several high-ranking Democrats, including Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Schumer also met with the same Ambassador, even though they are protesting and a speaking out against Sessions! (The Left's hypocrisy knows no bounds.)

Since the election, the Left has been raising one concern after another about Trump's Presidency. Some of them (very few) are legitimate. However, a lot are bogus and baseless, or simply oppositional for the sake of opposing him. This is divisive and stupid, and really needs to stop.

No one is denying the Left's right to disagree with the President, or their rights to free speech and assembly. Those are fundamental, and a healthy part of our society. What needs to stop is the rioting, and the obstructionism for the sake of obstructionism. It's petty, unproductive and accomplishes nothing but tearing down our nation and our people on a whole.

And before anyone points out that the Republicans obstructed Obama and the Democrats for the six out of eight years... I would point out that there weren't any Conservative-led riots, or people in Congress publicly stating Obama was not their President and they would do everything they could to stop him in everything he tries to do. (Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity both made comments along these lines lines, but neither are elected officials.)

Right now, Democrats are acting like spoiled toddlers who have finally been told no (and that's exactly how the general public is seeing them). They're throwing everything they can come up with at the wall, just to see what they can make stick. Instead of doing what the Republicans did in their place eight years ago, and trying to find a way to work the system, by getting some of their ideas passed and minimize the damage done by the other side.

Call me whatever you like, but I don't recall ever seeing all those "uneducated, backwoods, rednecks" in the TEA Party dressing as vaginas and burning down their cities while chanting idiotic slogans. I don't remember Trump, or any of his supporters telling the American public that we'd have to pass his immigration bill to know what's in it. I don't see him making promises, and then not lifting a finger to even try to get them to pass. (You may not like what he promised, but you have to admit he's at least trying to fulfill them.)

The real problem currently, isn't that the Democrats (and some anti-Trump Republicans) are protesting things they feel are unfair. It's that they feel everything the other side does is unfair, and are protesting every little thing equally. All this does is detracts from the truly big and important issues, and makes people ignore everything. It's like my mother always used to tell me, "Choose your battles wisely."

With the current climate (still waiting on the change!) on the Left, all the hateful rhetoric and intolerance of Conservatives, I'm starting to call them "Regressives", rather than Progressives. To me, it's a more apt description.

Stop the Hypocrisy and Madness

Am I the only one who is sick and tired of all the non-sense and b.s. we're being fed in the world today? Am I really standing alone in my quest for truth and a little common sense?

I'm fed up with bigotry and hatred masquerading as tolerance and unity. I've had enough of watching our society be divided by the very same people who tell us we need to stand together for equality, of watching our cities riot and burn by the ones who claim to want peace and justice.

It's time for anyone out there with even an ounce of human dignity and intelligence left within them to stand up, and denounce the insanity. It's time that we take back our schools, our media, our government and our very lives.

You will never have peace or justice by burning down your neighborhoods every time something happens you don't agree with. You will never have equality and unity, as long as you focus on the things which divide and separate us as a nation and a people. If all you look for is racism and intolerance, guess what you'll find?

Whatever happened to decency and understanding? To treating people with the same respect you demand for yourself?

A simple test for determining if something is truly right or wrong is simply asking, "If I held the opposite view, would I want someone to treat me the way I'm treating others now?" For example, I'm willing to bet a vast majority of the protesters at nearly every demonstration now days, would have an issue with watching people march and destroy their cities while chanting",White Lives Matter!" (If that would be considered racist and hateful, why isn't it in reverse?)

If you truly want equality, then be equal. Don't take, or demand liberties not afforded to anyone else. And don't allow anyone to manipulate your emotions and principles in order to stir you into a frenzy, and further their own agenda. In other words, stop being a puppet for people who claim to have your interests at heart, but only want your support to gain or keep power.

True freedom and equality rarely relies upon violence, hate or illegal activities to be upheld or enforced. Real tolerance means listening to every point of view, not just the ones you agree with. It also means defending everyone's rights, even those you may personally oppose.

To quote Bill O'Reilly, "Bad behavior does not justify bad behavior." Just because something was done to you, does not give you the right to do it to someone else. Real character and mortality come from "being the bigger person" and "turning the other cheek".

I know, all this sounds like a bunch of clichés, but believe me, there are undeniable truths in them. All it requires is a little honest thought to see it.

In the end, it really doesn't matter whether you're a Liberal or Conservative, Democrat or Republican, or something in between. When it all comes down to it, we're all human beings made of the same flesh and blood. No one wants to be treated any less, and no one deserves to be treated any better than anyone else.

"Love thy neighbor, as thyself." Was more than a commandment from Christ. It was/is an universal human truth. Without it, the world is pure chaos, and we are nothing more than mere animals.