Wednesday, June 14, 2017
The way it should be
There are certain things we're not allowed to say, or even talk about in today's society. Things that are understood to be taboo, and strictly off limits, unless you want to be labeled and branded for the rest of your life.
In a country that founded the very idea of "free speech", I find this outrageous and incredibly stupid.
Why is it, I can go to nearly any university in America, and hear lectures and guest speakers promoting hate, violence and racism against the Right-wing, and even average white Americans? Yet, let a nonviolent Conservative try to speak at a campus, and everyone loses their damned minds?
Why is it, most major cities, including so-called Conservative ones, permit (and often promote) discrimination in the form of things like gay pride parades, Cinco De Mayo celebrations, or even Miss Black America beauty pageants? And yet, no one can express pride in being straight, white or male, without being labeled a bigot, racist or sexist?
I'm not asking for my own parade, nightclubs or businesses. I don't want a special month, or even a day set aside for people who physically look like me, or act like me. All I want is true equality for everyone... of all races, genders, spiritual or sexual preferences. Where no one is treated any differently than anyone else, and no one has any more or less rights than anyone else.
I want to live in world where gays are allowed to marry, adopt children and share work benefits with their partners; but aren't allowed to hold parades or exclusive businesses that ban others. I want to have a country where African Americans can get a safe and decent education, with as many opportunities as anyone else to get better jobs; without having their own history month, colleges and laws forcing people to hire them based entirely on skin color. A place where women can be paid just as much as any male counterpart, with the same chances for promotions in every job; but are expected to do the same work, at the same level as any man.
To me, that is true equality, when you leave your race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious/political views at home whenever you go out into society. When we can honestly say that we don't really care if you're White, Black, Asian, Latino, gay, straight, male, female, Liberal or Conservative. As long as you follow the laws, all are welcome here... that's the America I want to live in.
In a country that founded the very idea of "free speech", I find this outrageous and incredibly stupid.
Why is it, I can go to nearly any university in America, and hear lectures and guest speakers promoting hate, violence and racism against the Right-wing, and even average white Americans? Yet, let a nonviolent Conservative try to speak at a campus, and everyone loses their damned minds?
Why is it, most major cities, including so-called Conservative ones, permit (and often promote) discrimination in the form of things like gay pride parades, Cinco De Mayo celebrations, or even Miss Black America beauty pageants? And yet, no one can express pride in being straight, white or male, without being labeled a bigot, racist or sexist?
I'm not asking for my own parade, nightclubs or businesses. I don't want a special month, or even a day set aside for people who physically look like me, or act like me. All I want is true equality for everyone... of all races, genders, spiritual or sexual preferences. Where no one is treated any differently than anyone else, and no one has any more or less rights than anyone else.
I want to live in world where gays are allowed to marry, adopt children and share work benefits with their partners; but aren't allowed to hold parades or exclusive businesses that ban others. I want to have a country where African Americans can get a safe and decent education, with as many opportunities as anyone else to get better jobs; without having their own history month, colleges and laws forcing people to hire them based entirely on skin color. A place where women can be paid just as much as any male counterpart, with the same chances for promotions in every job; but are expected to do the same work, at the same level as any man.
To me, that is true equality, when you leave your race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious/political views at home whenever you go out into society. When we can honestly say that we don't really care if you're White, Black, Asian, Latino, gay, straight, male, female, Liberal or Conservative. As long as you follow the laws, all are welcome here... that's the America I want to live in.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The Dangers of Temper Tantrums
Today, as you may or may not know, was yet another unnecessary hearing, held for no other purpose than to destroy a member of the President's cabinet, and ultimately take down Trump himself. This time, it was Attorney General Jeff Sessions that faced the Liberal firing squad in Congress. (Only, this time, Sessions shot back.)
This has gone far beyond ridiculous. It's now to the point of sickening, and quickly approaching treasonous on the other side.
Personally, I'm really starting to get angry with all this childish nonsense from the Left. It's frustrating and unpatriotic, end of story.
I've said it thousands of times, and will continue to do so... It's okay to disagree with a seated President. In fact, that's one of the rights that makes this country great. Go ahead and complain, or even peacefully protest their policies. That's your right (and Lord knows I exercise mine).
However, no one has a right to shut anyone else up by shouting them down. No one has the right to commit acts of violence against anyone else, or public/private property to protest something they disagree with. And, no one has the right to slander (or libel), or tie up the courts/Congress making false claims and allegations.
Now, I did say this was approaching treason, and I stand by it. Here's why...
By now, only the deepest Kool-aid drinkers on the Left still firmly believe that Trump or any of his advisors colluded with the Russians. There simply has been no evidence of any kind here. In fact, the only provable crimes committed have been on the anti-Trump side (leaking classified information to the press for political gain).
Yet, the Left-wingers, and a few RINOs, are continuing this charade for no other reason than to damage the Trump administration. This, in and of itself, isn't necessarily treason (as sickenly cowardly and childish as it may be). However, it's stupid and dangerous, which can and does lead to treason.
Follow me, if you can now... I'm about to break it down logically...
By now, all these so-called "Collusion Hearings" are proving to be nothing more than a massive waste of tax payer money, and Congressional time, in short... a major distraction. As long as they go on, our Congressmen are focusing on this nonsense, instead of the welfare and security of our nation (dereliction of duty). This farce also encourages our officials to steal and leak classified information (espionage) to the media in order to subvert and undermine a seated United States President (Mutiny). All of these are considered "High Crimes", which are the official definition of treason.
Granted, I admit that it's a bit of a stretch, but there's far more evidence for my case, than there is for any of theirs.
I just wish, for once, they'd be honest about what they're trying to accomplish, and why. But, of course, they can't. Because, if they were honest (even to themselves), they would have to admit that their little fit has nothing to do with whether Trump could be a good President, or not. Rather, it's about power, and the ability to steer the country away from all the principles that built this nation and made it great.
The Regressive Left are the type of people who set fire to their own house, complain about the flames, then curse the firemen whom come to put it out.
They are the true reason behind all the modern division in America (while claiming to be victims), and as long as they keep it up, we're never going to be free, or safe. We can't keep an eye on the real threats, if we're constantly worrying about bruising their delicate little feelings when they don't get their way.
Maybe the reason ISIS hasn't launched a major attack on U.S. soil in a while, is because they know they don't have to. They see how the Regressives and snowflakes are acting, and they realize we're destroying ourselves from within. All they have to do is sit and wait.
This has gone far beyond ridiculous. It's now to the point of sickening, and quickly approaching treasonous on the other side.
Personally, I'm really starting to get angry with all this childish nonsense from the Left. It's frustrating and unpatriotic, end of story.
I've said it thousands of times, and will continue to do so... It's okay to disagree with a seated President. In fact, that's one of the rights that makes this country great. Go ahead and complain, or even peacefully protest their policies. That's your right (and Lord knows I exercise mine).
However, no one has a right to shut anyone else up by shouting them down. No one has the right to commit acts of violence against anyone else, or public/private property to protest something they disagree with. And, no one has the right to slander (or libel), or tie up the courts/Congress making false claims and allegations.
Now, I did say this was approaching treason, and I stand by it. Here's why...
By now, only the deepest Kool-aid drinkers on the Left still firmly believe that Trump or any of his advisors colluded with the Russians. There simply has been no evidence of any kind here. In fact, the only provable crimes committed have been on the anti-Trump side (leaking classified information to the press for political gain).
Yet, the Left-wingers, and a few RINOs, are continuing this charade for no other reason than to damage the Trump administration. This, in and of itself, isn't necessarily treason (as sickenly cowardly and childish as it may be). However, it's stupid and dangerous, which can and does lead to treason.
Follow me, if you can now... I'm about to break it down logically...
By now, all these so-called "Collusion Hearings" are proving to be nothing more than a massive waste of tax payer money, and Congressional time, in short... a major distraction. As long as they go on, our Congressmen are focusing on this nonsense, instead of the welfare and security of our nation (dereliction of duty). This farce also encourages our officials to steal and leak classified information (espionage) to the media in order to subvert and undermine a seated United States President (Mutiny). All of these are considered "High Crimes", which are the official definition of treason.
Granted, I admit that it's a bit of a stretch, but there's far more evidence for my case, than there is for any of theirs.
I just wish, for once, they'd be honest about what they're trying to accomplish, and why. But, of course, they can't. Because, if they were honest (even to themselves), they would have to admit that their little fit has nothing to do with whether Trump could be a good President, or not. Rather, it's about power, and the ability to steer the country away from all the principles that built this nation and made it great.
The Regressive Left are the type of people who set fire to their own house, complain about the flames, then curse the firemen whom come to put it out.
They are the true reason behind all the modern division in America (while claiming to be victims), and as long as they keep it up, we're never going to be free, or safe. We can't keep an eye on the real threats, if we're constantly worrying about bruising their delicate little feelings when they don't get their way.
Maybe the reason ISIS hasn't launched a major attack on U.S. soil in a while, is because they know they don't have to. They see how the Regressives and snowflakes are acting, and they realize we're destroying ourselves from within. All they have to do is sit and wait.
Thursday, June 8, 2017
Comey Hearing
Earlier today, former FBI Director James Comey testified before Congress in what has got to be the most boring waste of time and tax dollars of the Trump era so far. I mean, we learned absolutely nothing new from this day-long snooze-fest.
If you hated Trump before, you found Comey's testimony damning. If you loved him, Comey came off looking like a fool. For the rest of us, you wondered why you just wasted your time watching the charade.
To some up today's event:
1. Comey was unable to find any proof the Russians actually changed a single vote in our election last November.
2. He didn't find any proof that Trump directly or indirectly colluded with the Russians.
3. He rushed the results of the Clinton investigation because of Bill's shady meeting with Attorney General Loretta Lynch, and fear of political fallout.
4. Trump never asked him to drop the Russian Investigation, or the Flynn investigation. (Though he did say that he hoped it could be dropped soon... not a crime.)
5. He suddenly decided to keep notes (which told us nothing new) after each meeting with Trump. Even though he never did this after eight years with Obama.
6. He believes the President fired him over the Russian Investigation, though he admitted Trump didn't directly say that, and he has no proof. He also directly said Trump lied about why he was fired, and has credibility issues. (So, it's Comey's word against Trump's.)
7. He admitted to telling Trump at least three times that he (Trump) was not being investigated in the Russian Probe. (Now, who has credibility issues?)
8. He couldn't say whether Trump obstructed his investigation. (If he couldn't, then who in the hell can???) And, he's looking forward to the special committee digging into this, and leaning that way. (Sounds awful partial and partisan to me.)
9. Michael Flynn and Jeff Sessions may be in bigger trouble over the Russian issue than we thought. (Of course, he didn't really elaborate on how or why.)
10. He actually unwittingly helped the President's credibility, by confirming that the media got most of the stories about the Russian Investigation wrong and were engaging in "fake news". He even admitted to leaking details of the probe (even though he was supposed to be finding the source of leaks).
So, basically the whole affair was a giant nothing-burger with heavy cheese. Not one single mind was changed, and I seriously doubt any will be any time soon.
The one thing I personally took away from the hearing today, was that there's still no evidence of a crime on Trump's part. He was well within his rights and authority to fire Comey. They still can't find any proof the President colluded with the Russians. And, the Left isn't going to stop trying to destroy him, or give up on their insane dream of impeachment (even though, they don't have any legitimate grounds).
Meanwhile, all the partisan fighting and juvenile obstructionism is dividing the country further, and making us less safe.
While hunting for boogie-men in every shadow, the real boogie-men (ISIS and Al-Qaeda) are sniffing around our door.
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
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.
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.
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.
Sunday, June 4, 2017
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.
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