Friday, February 28, 2003
Bad News...
Appeals Court reaffirms decision of phrase "... under God..." is unconstitutional.
In the same article however, it is clearly apparents that Newdow doesn't care about his daughter reciting the pledge, he is just using his daughter as a political tool. The same article states:
The guy doesn't even have legal custody of his own child! One would think that if he is going to go to court with his child, it would be over obtaining legal custody rather than trying to rail away against two words in the Pledge of Allegiance. Yet another case of the moral bankruptcy of the atheist position. And yes, I am generalizing here... sue me.
Appeals Court reaffirms decision of phrase "... under God..." is unconstitutional.
In the same article however, it is clearly apparents that Newdow doesn't care about his daughter reciting the pledge, he is just using his daughter as a political tool. The same article states:
Newdow's lawsuit began as a challenge to a 1954 decision by Congress to add the words “under God” to the pledge. The lawsuit later sidestepped into a parental rights case over a custody dispute between Newdow and his 8-year-old child’s mother, Sandra Banning of Elk Grove.
In response to the court’s original ruling, Banning asserted that her daughter is not harmed by reciting the pledge and is not opposed to God. Banning, who now has legal custody of the child, urged the court to consider whether Newdow even had legal standing to bring the case on behalf of his daughter. The court said Newdow did have such legal standing.
The guy doesn't even have legal custody of his own child! One would think that if he is going to go to court with his child, it would be over obtaining legal custody rather than trying to rail away against two words in the Pledge of Allegiance. Yet another case of the moral bankruptcy of the atheist position. And yes, I am generalizing here... sue me.
Thursday, February 27, 2003
Wow, England isn't messing around on this Iraq deal...
England calls up 80 year old to fight Iraq.
Funny thing is, this guy took it all in stride... his response? "I'm a bit past my prime..." :)
England calls up 80 year old to fight Iraq.
Funny thing is, this guy took it all in stride... his response? "I'm a bit past my prime..." :)
Where will gas prices top off at?
That was a short stay...
Those who frequent the many parishes of St. Blog's know Fr. Rob Johansen, one of St. Blog's pastors, who runs/ran the Thrown Back blog. They also know that several months ago, Fr. Johansen was asked to take a respite from blogging for six months by his bishop. Well, recently Fr. Johansen returned from his sabbatical and began blogging again. However, all that ended on Feb 21, 2003 when his bishop asked him once again to stop blogging.
At least a couple of parishoners of St. Blogs have commented on this but I also wanted to add my two cents. Not being prone to writing emails to people in protest, I did feel moved to write a letter to Fr. Johansen's bishop... here was my letter:
Right Reverend Sir,
It is with much dismay that I recently noticed that Fr. Rob Johansen has once again stopped blogging per your request. I know that Fr. Johansen will faithfully comply with your wishes but I must admit that this leaves those of us who look to priestly guide on the internet at a disadvantage. On May 12, 2002, the Pope proclaimed that the Internet would provide a new platform for the presentation of the Gospel, and I would think that there would be more priests willing to spend time and energy leading the Catholic faithful who maintain a presence there. I know from past experience, that the writings of Fr. Johansen have proven beneficial for this Catholic and I can only assume from the shock waves that Fr. Johansens second departure has created, that others feel the same way. Therefore I beseech you to reconsider your request of Fr. Johansen and allow him to resume his blogging activity. Thank you for your attention on this matter.
Deo iuvante,
Thomas Joseph
I don't expect it to make any difference in the matter, but this vascillating by Fr. Johansen's bishop would certainly tick me off if I were in the good Padre's position. I guess that is why I'm not a priest. :)
Those who frequent the many parishes of St. Blog's know Fr. Rob Johansen, one of St. Blog's pastors, who runs/ran the Thrown Back blog. They also know that several months ago, Fr. Johansen was asked to take a respite from blogging for six months by his bishop. Well, recently Fr. Johansen returned from his sabbatical and began blogging again. However, all that ended on Feb 21, 2003 when his bishop asked him once again to stop blogging.
At least a couple of parishoners of St. Blogs have commented on this but I also wanted to add my two cents. Not being prone to writing emails to people in protest, I did feel moved to write a letter to Fr. Johansen's bishop... here was my letter:
Right Reverend Sir,
It is with much dismay that I recently noticed that Fr. Rob Johansen has once again stopped blogging per your request. I know that Fr. Johansen will faithfully comply with your wishes but I must admit that this leaves those of us who look to priestly guide on the internet at a disadvantage. On May 12, 2002, the Pope proclaimed that the Internet would provide a new platform for the presentation of the Gospel, and I would think that there would be more priests willing to spend time and energy leading the Catholic faithful who maintain a presence there. I know from past experience, that the writings of Fr. Johansen have proven beneficial for this Catholic and I can only assume from the shock waves that Fr. Johansens second departure has created, that others feel the same way. Therefore I beseech you to reconsider your request of Fr. Johansen and allow him to resume his blogging activity. Thank you for your attention on this matter.
Deo iuvante,
Thomas Joseph
I don't expect it to make any difference in the matter, but this vascillating by Fr. Johansen's bishop would certainly tick me off if I were in the good Padre's position. I guess that is why I'm not a priest. :)
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
You heard it here first... (maybe)
Received the following in an email yesterday. Visited the site and it looked good. Let me (and them) know what you think...
Hey Everybody,
I want to tell you about the launch of a new web site for the movie THERESE, produced by Luke Films and scheduled for theatrical release October 2003. Please visit the site and support this beautiful family film on the life of St. Therese of Lisieux. There are all kinds of things to do and see on the site. You can learn about the people who made the film, learn more about St. Therese and join the discussion group, plus there's a contest where you can win a free trip to the movie premiere. The more of you who visit the site the greater the impact the film will have and it'll show the theater owners and the distributors what kind of films you want to see. Make sure you post a message on the discussion board to show your support. Here's your chance to make a difference in the entertainment industry. Check it out, www.theresemovie.com.
Mike Masny
Luke Films
(800) 683-2998
www.theresemovie.com
Received the following in an email yesterday. Visited the site and it looked good. Let me (and them) know what you think...
Hey Everybody,
I want to tell you about the launch of a new web site for the movie THERESE, produced by Luke Films and scheduled for theatrical release October 2003. Please visit the site and support this beautiful family film on the life of St. Therese of Lisieux. There are all kinds of things to do and see on the site. You can learn about the people who made the film, learn more about St. Therese and join the discussion group, plus there's a contest where you can win a free trip to the movie premiere. The more of you who visit the site the greater the impact the film will have and it'll show the theater owners and the distributors what kind of films you want to see. Make sure you post a message on the discussion board to show your support. Here's your chance to make a difference in the entertainment industry. Check it out, www.theresemovie.com.
Mike Masny
Luke Films
(800) 683-2998
www.theresemovie.com
Sunday, February 23, 2003
Gah!
Last week the temperature here in Oklahoma reached up into the high 80s. Today, it is snowing. I hate winter!
Last week the temperature here in Oklahoma reached up into the high 80s. Today, it is snowing. I hate winter!
Matthew 10:14
And if any one will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town.
How does this verse apply today? When Jesus spoke these words, He had sent the apostles out to preach in His name, well before His death and resurrection. The message they were speaking at the time was completely unknown, at least in the form that the Jews were used to recognizing. In effect, the Apostles would be speaking to entire towns, and as we can see by reading the Gospel accounts, entire towns did reject Jesus. One can consider these words of Jesus Christ as a model for bringing the word to as many people as possible in as quick a time as possible. Jesus knew He didn't have much time and He wanted to get His message spread out as quickly as possible to as many people as possible in as short a time as possible. Therefore it was prudent that the Apostles not dilly dally around trying to get through to people who just didn't want to have any part of it. It is quite possible that with some reasonable discussion over a lengthy process, these sorts of people may have gotten the message, but in the meantime an opportunity for an effective, quick ministry to other people willing to listen would have been lost.
Of course, after the death of Jesus Christ, one would think that as the Apostles set out, that they would have more time to sit down and explain their position in the hopes that they could convince people of Jesus' message and bring them to conversion. However, in Acts 13 we see Paul and Barnabas preaching to Antioch of Pisid'ia. They had preached in the synagogue and during that time Paul presented Christ to the people there. They stayed a week, and then Paul preached the following sabbath. However, at that meeting, Paul and Barnabas were treated with vehement opposition and in verse 51 we see them obeying Christ and shaking the dust off their feet. They didn't give these people much time to change their mind... did they?
So why am I reflecting on these words of Jesus, in particular, today? Good question. This is a verse that I have been struggling with a lot recently, and it has to do with my dealings on particular message boards. I understand that there is a lot of confusion as it pertains to the teachings of the Catholic Church, most of which is the direct result of misinformation spread by people such as Jack Chick, Alexander Hislop, Ian Paisley and Lorraine Boettner, but how long should we spend our time dealing with people who refuse to see information from such people for what it really is... a bunch of lies?
Now, we're not dealing with entire towns, but rather we're dealing with message boards. Also, we're not talking about bringing Jesus Christ to these people because they are already Christians. Is this more of an attempt to rebuke people for the lies they believe about the Catholic Church, and explaining to them patiently the truth about Catholicism and God's plan for salvation through His Church? Such a thing obviously takes considerable time, and Paul in his letters to Timothy outlines an plan of confrontation with such people... a series of approaches which does take time to mature before one considers the proposition pointless. Paul, to Timothy tells Timothy to teach, rebuke and exhort with unfailing patience. Does this mean that we need to never give up on these people before moving on to a possibly more receptive audience? Is it ultimately a decision we need to make by what we feel is the prompting of the Holy Spirit, which may vary from person to person?
There are days when my patience with people who call me a "messenger of satan", "deceived", a "wolf amongst the flock", a "willing pawn" and "hell-bound" runs thin. I've tried a lot lately... and I mean a lot, to keep my temper in check. For the most part it has worked, and I've always tried to give a response worthy of Christ. In some respects it has paid off, and I have received private messages from some people praising me for my efforts. Other private messages have not been so nice, but that is to be expected. However it is frustrating when you are posting in a Christian manner and the replies you receive are not posted in such a manner, and they replies are from people who are very proud of the fact that they are "born again Christians". I realize that perhaps the best approach is to let the chips fall as they may and ignore such people. I hope that there are lurkers who read those posts and see the difference in attitudes and that by weighing the quality of the fruit displayed, that they can see the validity of my message. However I think the moderators of at least one of those forums also know this potential and so unsurprisingly enough, the posts where I wind up presenting the strongest message of Christianity, they seem to be moved to a more remote part of the board, locked or removed entirely. How can one be an effective messenger when his hands are tied at every turn?
Obviously my dilemma needs to be reflected upon with more prayer but I am becoming more and more convinced that providing a presence at certain places is, at least for me, a pointless exercise and my talents for apologetics (if they even exist) might be better spent elsewhere. The problem though is... what is to become of the lurkers then? Have I been effective? Have I sown any good seed for Christ? If I could gauge the quality of such a crop (heck, one good seed alone might be worth the angst of staying) it might change my perception, but is it for God to reveal the potential of the harvest to me or am I to trust in Him without ever knowing?
And if any one will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town.
How does this verse apply today? When Jesus spoke these words, He had sent the apostles out to preach in His name, well before His death and resurrection. The message they were speaking at the time was completely unknown, at least in the form that the Jews were used to recognizing. In effect, the Apostles would be speaking to entire towns, and as we can see by reading the Gospel accounts, entire towns did reject Jesus. One can consider these words of Jesus Christ as a model for bringing the word to as many people as possible in as quick a time as possible. Jesus knew He didn't have much time and He wanted to get His message spread out as quickly as possible to as many people as possible in as short a time as possible. Therefore it was prudent that the Apostles not dilly dally around trying to get through to people who just didn't want to have any part of it. It is quite possible that with some reasonable discussion over a lengthy process, these sorts of people may have gotten the message, but in the meantime an opportunity for an effective, quick ministry to other people willing to listen would have been lost.
Of course, after the death of Jesus Christ, one would think that as the Apostles set out, that they would have more time to sit down and explain their position in the hopes that they could convince people of Jesus' message and bring them to conversion. However, in Acts 13 we see Paul and Barnabas preaching to Antioch of Pisid'ia. They had preached in the synagogue and during that time Paul presented Christ to the people there. They stayed a week, and then Paul preached the following sabbath. However, at that meeting, Paul and Barnabas were treated with vehement opposition and in verse 51 we see them obeying Christ and shaking the dust off their feet. They didn't give these people much time to change their mind... did they?
So why am I reflecting on these words of Jesus, in particular, today? Good question. This is a verse that I have been struggling with a lot recently, and it has to do with my dealings on particular message boards. I understand that there is a lot of confusion as it pertains to the teachings of the Catholic Church, most of which is the direct result of misinformation spread by people such as Jack Chick, Alexander Hislop, Ian Paisley and Lorraine Boettner, but how long should we spend our time dealing with people who refuse to see information from such people for what it really is... a bunch of lies?
Now, we're not dealing with entire towns, but rather we're dealing with message boards. Also, we're not talking about bringing Jesus Christ to these people because they are already Christians. Is this more of an attempt to rebuke people for the lies they believe about the Catholic Church, and explaining to them patiently the truth about Catholicism and God's plan for salvation through His Church? Such a thing obviously takes considerable time, and Paul in his letters to Timothy outlines an plan of confrontation with such people... a series of approaches which does take time to mature before one considers the proposition pointless. Paul, to Timothy tells Timothy to teach, rebuke and exhort with unfailing patience. Does this mean that we need to never give up on these people before moving on to a possibly more receptive audience? Is it ultimately a decision we need to make by what we feel is the prompting of the Holy Spirit, which may vary from person to person?
There are days when my patience with people who call me a "messenger of satan", "deceived", a "wolf amongst the flock", a "willing pawn" and "hell-bound" runs thin. I've tried a lot lately... and I mean a lot, to keep my temper in check. For the most part it has worked, and I've always tried to give a response worthy of Christ. In some respects it has paid off, and I have received private messages from some people praising me for my efforts. Other private messages have not been so nice, but that is to be expected. However it is frustrating when you are posting in a Christian manner and the replies you receive are not posted in such a manner, and they replies are from people who are very proud of the fact that they are "born again Christians". I realize that perhaps the best approach is to let the chips fall as they may and ignore such people. I hope that there are lurkers who read those posts and see the difference in attitudes and that by weighing the quality of the fruit displayed, that they can see the validity of my message. However I think the moderators of at least one of those forums also know this potential and so unsurprisingly enough, the posts where I wind up presenting the strongest message of Christianity, they seem to be moved to a more remote part of the board, locked or removed entirely. How can one be an effective messenger when his hands are tied at every turn?
Obviously my dilemma needs to be reflected upon with more prayer but I am becoming more and more convinced that providing a presence at certain places is, at least for me, a pointless exercise and my talents for apologetics (if they even exist) might be better spent elsewhere. The problem though is... what is to become of the lurkers then? Have I been effective? Have I sown any good seed for Christ? If I could gauge the quality of such a crop (heck, one good seed alone might be worth the angst of staying) it might change my perception, but is it for God to reveal the potential of the harvest to me or am I to trust in Him without ever knowing?
Saturday, February 22, 2003
Abortion reality begins to hit worldwide...
Russia Faces Abortion Complications
Statistics
13% of Russian couples are infertile
75% of infertility is a direct result of complications from previous abortions.
Russia Faces Abortion Complications
Statistics
13% of Russian couples are infertile
75% of infertility is a direct result of complications from previous abortions.
New Kids on the Blog...
Received an email several days ago asking for help in the promotion of a new blog entitled Ever Ancient, Ever New. It looks, good and it's run by the Association of Students at Catholic Colleges. So, here it is... the blog looks good, check it out, make it a regular in your blog reading itinerary, write them, encourage them and most of all pray for them.
Received an email several days ago asking for help in the promotion of a new blog entitled Ever Ancient, Ever New. It looks, good and it's run by the Association of Students at Catholic Colleges. So, here it is... the blog looks good, check it out, make it a regular in your blog reading itinerary, write them, encourage them and most of all pray for them.
If Americans did...
... this ... to obtain access to the Internet, we wouldn't be worrying about ... this ...
Hey, can you pass me that Big Mac? I need 10 more minutes on blogger dot com.
... this ... to obtain access to the Internet, we wouldn't be worrying about ... this ...
Hey, can you pass me that Big Mac? I need 10 more minutes on blogger dot com.
Ooops, I didn't mean to get that abortion...
St. Mary's refuses to take responsibility. This is a place of higher education. Why are they funding trips that they do not know the educational impact of? For all they could have known, this trip could have been nothing but a way to get the college to pay for spring break. Come to think of it... that may have been a better way to spend this money in the first place...
The kicker though is this comment:
Yah like, totally... it's like so cool but ya know, we're a Catholic college and all... bummer. Not suppose to believe in abortion? Hello... McFly! If this was my daughter speaking such words of ignorance, I'd play ignorant on her next semesters tuition.
St. Mary's refuses to take responsibility. This is a place of higher education. Why are they funding trips that they do not know the educational impact of? For all they could have known, this trip could have been nothing but a way to get the college to pay for spring break. Come to think of it... that may have been a better way to spend this money in the first place...
The kicker though is this comment:
I think it's a good idea, aside from the fact we're a Catholic college and not suppose to believe in abortion.
Yah like, totally... it's like so cool but ya know, we're a Catholic college and all... bummer. Not suppose to believe in abortion? Hello... McFly! If this was my daughter speaking such words of ignorance, I'd play ignorant on her next semesters tuition.
Do you have it in you?
Mouse or man?
It's not just a case of "mind over matter" anymore... it's genetic.
Mouse or man?
It's not just a case of "mind over matter" anymore... it's genetic.
Note to the people living in the Congo...
Stoning innocent people to death will NOT STOP the Ebola virus.
Stoning innocent people to death will NOT STOP the Ebola virus.
Thursday, February 20, 2003
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Matthew 5:11
Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
China's potential suppression of Hong Kong's Catholic Church. Is it only a matter of time? I pray that God may protect our Catholic brethren both in Hong Kong and those currently undergoing persecution on mainland China.
Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
China's potential suppression of Hong Kong's Catholic Church. Is it only a matter of time? I pray that God may protect our Catholic brethren both in Hong Kong and those currently undergoing persecution on mainland China.
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.
Seems as if the borrower is also slave to whoever manages to hack access to over 5 million credit cards. Making this yet another reason why paper is better than plastic, and I don't mean just in the case of shopping bags.
The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.
Seems as if the borrower is also slave to whoever manages to hack access to over 5 million credit cards. Making this yet another reason why paper is better than plastic, and I don't mean just in the case of shopping bags.
Once again I say.... "cheese-eating surrender monkeys"
Chirac is a pompous ass
Excuse me Mr. Chirac, but why is aligning oneself with America considered reckless and "not very well behaved"? It worked for you in World War I and World War II, did it not? It got your ass out of a sling in Vietnam too. Thankyouverymuch.
Chirac is a pompous ass
These countries have been not very well behaved and rather reckless of the danger of aligning themselves too rapidly with the American position.
Excuse me Mr. Chirac, but why is aligning oneself with America considered reckless and "not very well behaved"? It worked for you in World War I and World War II, did it not? It got your ass out of a sling in Vietnam too. Thankyouverymuch.
Monday, February 17, 2003
Sunday, February 16, 2003
Hi folks!
Well, I just recently went over 9000 hits and I would like to thank those people who come to visit my blog. I would especially thank those who have come back to check out my blog numerous times. :) The feedback, support and prayers are very much appreciated. I do wonder though, how many people have come to my blog, expecting to read my writing. I only ask this because I've recently looked at some of the web search results that led to people coming to this blog.
Google search : cardinal ratzinger drinking beer
Well, I suppose he would. He is German after all.
Google search : christian view of conscience
This is a good search because it brings up both my website and this blog.
Google search : saying pennsylvania sleep conscience
Your guess is as good as mine on that one. :)
Netscape search : German Shephard Dallas
Hey, I still think that dog should have won "Best in Show".
Google search : Jonas Salk's parents and Brothers
I had written on what would have happened if the parents of some famous people had gotten abortions.
And also...
Google search : christian pick up lines
Whoever you are... I hope they helped you find a nice Christian guy/girl. :)
God bless!
Well, I just recently went over 9000 hits and I would like to thank those people who come to visit my blog. I would especially thank those who have come back to check out my blog numerous times. :) The feedback, support and prayers are very much appreciated. I do wonder though, how many people have come to my blog, expecting to read my writing. I only ask this because I've recently looked at some of the web search results that led to people coming to this blog.
Google search : cardinal ratzinger drinking beer
Well, I suppose he would. He is German after all.
Google search : christian view of conscience
This is a good search because it brings up both my website and this blog.
Google search : saying pennsylvania sleep conscience
Your guess is as good as mine on that one. :)
Netscape search : German Shephard Dallas
Hey, I still think that dog should have won "Best in Show".
Google search : Jonas Salk's parents and Brothers
I had written on what would have happened if the parents of some famous people had gotten abortions.
And also...
Google search : christian pick up lines
Whoever you are... I hope they helped you find a nice Christian guy/girl. :)
God bless!
The Devil's Beatitudes
1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians -- they are my best workers.
2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked -- I can use them.
3. Blessed are the touchy who stop going to church -- they are my missionaries.
4. Blessed are the trouble makers -- they shall be called my children.
5. Blessed are the complainers -- I'm all ears to them.
6. Blessed are those who are bored with the minister's mannerisms and mistakes -- for they get nothing out of his sermons.
7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church -- for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.
8. Blessed are those who gossip -- for they shall cause strife and divisions that please me.
9. Blessed are those who are easily offended -- for they will soon get angry and quit.
10. Blessed are those who do not give their offering to carry on God's work-- for they are my helpers.
11. Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother and sister -- for he shall be with me forever.
12. Blessed are you who, when you read this think it is about other people and not yourself -- I've got you too!
1. Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians -- they are my best workers.
2. Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked -- I can use them.
3. Blessed are the touchy who stop going to church -- they are my missionaries.
4. Blessed are the trouble makers -- they shall be called my children.
5. Blessed are the complainers -- I'm all ears to them.
6. Blessed are those who are bored with the minister's mannerisms and mistakes -- for they get nothing out of his sermons.
7. Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church -- for he is a part of the problem instead of the solution.
8. Blessed are those who gossip -- for they shall cause strife and divisions that please me.
9. Blessed are those who are easily offended -- for they will soon get angry and quit.
10. Blessed are those who do not give their offering to carry on God's work-- for they are my helpers.
11. Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother and sister -- for he shall be with me forever.
12. Blessed are you who, when you read this think it is about other people and not yourself -- I've got you too!
Saturday, February 15, 2003
Quirkyalones?
This is one odd story. Now, don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with being alone. Heck, I certainly hope not because I'm currently alone myself! :) These people claim to be looking for "Mr. Right" or "M(is)s. Right", depending on the gender (ummm, maybe), and I have no problems with that because it's only prudent. However, the following quote kind of took me back...
Hmm, isn't that NOT maintaining your high standard? Or does that just mean, "I'll keep my high standards but I'll whore around from time to time?"
Yah, that makes perfect sense to me... NOT!
This is one odd story. Now, don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with being alone. Heck, I certainly hope not because I'm currently alone myself! :) These people claim to be looking for "Mr. Right" or "M(is)s. Right", depending on the gender (ummm, maybe), and I have no problems with that because it's only prudent. However, the following quote kind of took me back...
“You maintain your high standards for a relationship at all times, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t engage in dalliances, because you’re human and like everyone else you like to be physically involved with other people.”
Hmm, isn't that NOT maintaining your high standard? Or does that just mean, "I'll keep my high standards but I'll whore around from time to time?"
Yah, that makes perfect sense to me... NOT!
In a story related to the one below...
A group of kids on the internet watched as a "friend" fatally overdosed on pain medication. Some went as far to egg him on, saying such things as : eat more! and I wanna see if you survive or if you just black out.
Now granted, thankfully, some of them tried to figure out his location and some tried calling his cell phone, but all to no avail. He was found dead, the next day.
This world gets sadder by the minute.
Lord, have mercy on us.
A group of kids on the internet watched as a "friend" fatally overdosed on pain medication. Some went as far to egg him on, saying such things as : eat more! and I wanna see if you survive or if you just black out.
Now granted, thankfully, some of them tried to figure out his location and some tried calling his cell phone, but all to no avail. He was found dead, the next day.
This world gets sadder by the minute.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Sick, just sick...
It's almost as if the parable of the "Good Samaritan" came to life in this story. One problem though, the good samaritan never showed up and the guy on the side of the road died.
For crying out loud, a guy was a foot away! He even turned to look at the guy lying there, dying? dead? on the ground and then turned his back. There ought to be a law against that!
It's almost as if the parable of the "Good Samaritan" came to life in this story. One problem though, the good samaritan never showed up and the guy on the side of the road died.
For crying out loud, a guy was a foot away! He even turned to look at the guy lying there, dying? dead? on the ground and then turned his back. There ought to be a law against that!
Thursday, February 13, 2003
Justice Served
Clara Harris : GUILTY
Trying to hit his lover's car? Gee, let us see. She ran over her husband three times, hit his lover's car zero times. I guess this proves that women really are horrible drivers.
Clara Harris : GUILTY
A woman who ran down her philandering husband after catching him with his mistress was convicted of murder Thursday by a jury that rejected her claim she was aiming for his lover’s car.
Trying to hit his lover's car? Gee, let us see. She ran over her husband three times, hit his lover's car zero times. I guess this proves that women really are horrible drivers.
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Canine Triple Crown!
Personally, I was more fond of the german shephard Dallas. They didn't ask me though.
Personally, I was more fond of the german shephard Dallas. They didn't ask me though.
Monday, February 10, 2003
A Vaccination for Michael
Dear Mom,
Gosh, can you believe it's 2023 already? I'm still writing "22" on nearly everything. Seems like just yesterday I was sitting in first grade celebrating the new millennium. I know we haven't really chatted since Christmas. Sorry. Anyway, I have some difficult news, and I really did not want to call and talk face-to-face. Ted's had a promotion and I should be up for a hefty raise this year if I can keep up those crazy hours. Yes, we're still struggling with the bills. Michael's been "okay" at Kindergarten although he complains about going. But then, he wasn't happy about daycare either, so what can I do? He's been a real problem, Mom. He's a good kid, but quite honestly, he's an unfair burden in our lives at this time. Ted and I have talked this through and through and finally made a choice. Plenty of other families have made it and are much better off as a result. Our pastor is supportive and says hard decisions are necessary. The family is a "system" and the demands of one member shouldn't be allowed to ruin the whole.
He told us to be prayerful, consider all the factors, and do what is right to make the family work.
He says that even though he wouldn't probably do it himself, the decision is really ours. He was kind enough to refer us to a children's clinic near here, so at least that part's easy.
I'm not an uncaring mother. I do feel sorry for the little guy. I think he heard Ted and me talking about "it" the other night. I turned around and saw him standing at the bottom step in his PJ's with the little bear you gave him under his arm and his eyes sort of welling up. Mom, the way he looked at me just about broke my heart. But I honestly believe this is better for Michael too. It's not fair to force him to live in a family that can't give him the time and attention he deserves. And please don't give me the kind of grief Grandma gave you over your abortions. It is the same thing, you know. We've told him he's just going in for a vaccination. Anyway, they say it is painless. I guess it's just as well you haven't seen that much of him.
Love to you and Dad,
Jane.
Pray for an end to abortion.
Dear Mom,
Gosh, can you believe it's 2023 already? I'm still writing "22" on nearly everything. Seems like just yesterday I was sitting in first grade celebrating the new millennium. I know we haven't really chatted since Christmas. Sorry. Anyway, I have some difficult news, and I really did not want to call and talk face-to-face. Ted's had a promotion and I should be up for a hefty raise this year if I can keep up those crazy hours. Yes, we're still struggling with the bills. Michael's been "okay" at Kindergarten although he complains about going. But then, he wasn't happy about daycare either, so what can I do? He's been a real problem, Mom. He's a good kid, but quite honestly, he's an unfair burden in our lives at this time. Ted and I have talked this through and through and finally made a choice. Plenty of other families have made it and are much better off as a result. Our pastor is supportive and says hard decisions are necessary. The family is a "system" and the demands of one member shouldn't be allowed to ruin the whole.
He told us to be prayerful, consider all the factors, and do what is right to make the family work.
He says that even though he wouldn't probably do it himself, the decision is really ours. He was kind enough to refer us to a children's clinic near here, so at least that part's easy.
I'm not an uncaring mother. I do feel sorry for the little guy. I think he heard Ted and me talking about "it" the other night. I turned around and saw him standing at the bottom step in his PJ's with the little bear you gave him under his arm and his eyes sort of welling up. Mom, the way he looked at me just about broke my heart. But I honestly believe this is better for Michael too. It's not fair to force him to live in a family that can't give him the time and attention he deserves. And please don't give me the kind of grief Grandma gave you over your abortions. It is the same thing, you know. We've told him he's just going in for a vaccination. Anyway, they say it is painless. I guess it's just as well you haven't seen that much of him.
Love to you and Dad,
Jane.
Pray for an end to abortion.
Sunday, February 09, 2003
Anti-Catholic Case Studies
I've noticed, and I'm sure most other Catholics who do apologetics work on the internet have as well, that when anti-Catholics start *ahem* representing Catholic teachings, they do a pretty miserable job of explaining things right. Those who attack the Catholic Church seem to focus in on several key subjects, typically revolving around Mary, though not restricted to her. There representation of "Things Catholic (tm)" leaves a lot to be desired, and quite often is clearly contradicted by reality. Therefore I have begun a series of Case Studies comparing the Accusations against the Reality. I hope that these case studies can be a useful educational tool.
Case Study 1: Mary is Co-Equal with God
Case Study 2: Catholics Don't Preach Jesus
I plan on adding several more. Please take a look and let me know what you think (or if you have suggestions for further case studies) by email.
I've noticed, and I'm sure most other Catholics who do apologetics work on the internet have as well, that when anti-Catholics start *ahem* representing Catholic teachings, they do a pretty miserable job of explaining things right. Those who attack the Catholic Church seem to focus in on several key subjects, typically revolving around Mary, though not restricted to her. There representation of "Things Catholic (tm)" leaves a lot to be desired, and quite often is clearly contradicted by reality. Therefore I have begun a series of Case Studies comparing the Accusations against the Reality. I hope that these case studies can be a useful educational tool.
Case Study 1: Mary is Co-Equal with God
Case Study 2: Catholics Don't Preach Jesus
I plan on adding several more. Please take a look and let me know what you think (or if you have suggestions for further case studies) by email.
Friday, February 07, 2003
Islam takes on Coca-Cola...
... in this story. Sheesh, what's next?
Besides, I wonder who will win. Coca-Cola or Mecca-Cola? Who knows, maybe it'll be Zam Zam Cola.
... in this story. Sheesh, what's next?
Besides, I wonder who will win. Coca-Cola or Mecca-Cola? Who knows, maybe it'll be Zam Zam Cola.
Neoism
Over at Catholic and Loving It, Mark Shea asked:
In answer to His Highness/Holiness/Excellency's question, I coined the term you see above... Neoism.
Anything over 4 syllables would just be "too much" IMO, you know how us "MTV generationers" like to keep things short and simple.
Over at Catholic and Loving It, Mark Shea asked:
And, while you are arming for battle, help us out by *naming* our new religion. Please. Nothing so tacky as "Neuhausism" or "Sheaviolatry". We need something *catchy* for the MTV generation. Something.... hep to the jive as the young people say these days! Looking forward to your groovy responses. Peace and love, dudes and dudettes.
In answer to His Highness/Holiness/Excellency's question, I coined the term you see above... Neoism.
Anything over 4 syllables would just be "too much" IMO, you know how us "MTV generationers" like to keep things short and simple.
1 Corinthians 13
I spend some of my time at a place called the Rapture Ready Message Board (I should spend less time there, I admit). In my humble opinion, it's not a very nice place. In the "Apologetics Forum", Catholics are not well received (to put it mildly). Most everyone there is convinced that the Catholic Church is the Whore of Babylon, that from her will rise the Prophet that proclaims the anti-Christ. Yep, your standard anti-Catholic fan-fare that most of us have seen/heard/witnessed before. However, there are a select few there that even go over and above this... the following is an example of such (NOTE: Curtis, the man referred to in this excerpt is Catholic).
It will only take a push to have them start killing...
That is taking things a bit too far, even for the worst of message boards. Ettiquette? What ettiquette? That post shows no modicum of self-restraint, no common sense, and is just plain old fashioned paranoia. To people like this, Catholics are but one step away from killing everyone who doesn't adhere to ideas that mirror those of the Catholic.
How can one dispel such mistrust? Such hatred?
I'm afraid it might be impossible.
I spend some of my time at a place called the Rapture Ready Message Board (I should spend less time there, I admit). In my humble opinion, it's not a very nice place. In the "Apologetics Forum", Catholics are not well received (to put it mildly). Most everyone there is convinced that the Catholic Church is the Whore of Babylon, that from her will rise the Prophet that proclaims the anti-Christ. Yep, your standard anti-Catholic fan-fare that most of us have seen/heard/witnessed before. However, there are a select few there that even go over and above this... the following is an example of such (NOTE: Curtis, the man referred to in this excerpt is Catholic).
Curtis is the prime example of why Christians will be killed during the Great Trib! They already believe we are hellbound heretics(like we thought they believed otherwise, ). It will only take a push to have them start killing Christians for worshipping Jesus and not the RCC "Mary" and what nots. The deception will be tragic to those who are lost in earthly kingdoms, whose focus is stuff and not Jesus. Horribly sad and tragic.
It will only take a push to have them start killing...
That is taking things a bit too far, even for the worst of message boards. Ettiquette? What ettiquette? That post shows no modicum of self-restraint, no common sense, and is just plain old fashioned paranoia. To people like this, Catholics are but one step away from killing everyone who doesn't adhere to ideas that mirror those of the Catholic.
How can one dispel such mistrust? Such hatred?
I'm afraid it might be impossible.
Thursday, February 06, 2003
Too little, too late
Read the following story and could only thing to myself, "If they had only done this about a decade ago."
I am a microbiologist by trade, I should know. Got my B.S. and M.S. degrees in Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science. My favorite subject (Medical Technology is basically a four discipline trade... blood banking, chemistry, hematology and microbiology) was always microbiology. I'm also now getting my PhD in Microbiology and Immunology. When I first did my clinical rotations for my B.S. I had a mentor in the Millard Fillmore Hospital Microbiology lab who told me "For some bacteria there is only one antibiotic left that can be used to treat them, vancomycin. It is a last resort drug. If these bugs (microbiologist slang for bacteria) ever become resistant, a lot of people will die, there will be no cure."
That was back in 1994. By 1996 vancomycin resistance was showing up in Staphylococcus aureus, one of the largest contributors to nosocomial (hospital aquired) infections, across the world. Quite often, these sorts of infections result in death. The first case in the United States was reported in Pennsylvania this past year (2002). This is not a Good Thing (tm).
Unfortunately, chances are that it's too late. Vancomycin resistance, like other antibiotic resistances, are genetically transferred. Once there is one report, expect more. I hate to be alarmist but we really don't have anyone to blame but ourselves. First, doctors should know better. They prescribe antibiotics for people with all sorts of maladies without checking to see if they are bacterial in nature. If you have a viral infection, antibiotics are not going to work. Antibiotics only target bacteria, not viruses. Second, when you are told to take all of your medicine and you don't, that allows the few bacteria that have survived to build up a tolerance. This tolerance eventually turns into resistance. Plenty of blame to go around.
Eventually, we might regress back into a pre-antibiotic age.
Read the following story and could only thing to myself, "If they had only done this about a decade ago."
I am a microbiologist by trade, I should know. Got my B.S. and M.S. degrees in Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science. My favorite subject (Medical Technology is basically a four discipline trade... blood banking, chemistry, hematology and microbiology) was always microbiology. I'm also now getting my PhD in Microbiology and Immunology. When I first did my clinical rotations for my B.S. I had a mentor in the Millard Fillmore Hospital Microbiology lab who told me "For some bacteria there is only one antibiotic left that can be used to treat them, vancomycin. It is a last resort drug. If these bugs (microbiologist slang for bacteria) ever become resistant, a lot of people will die, there will be no cure."
That was back in 1994. By 1996 vancomycin resistance was showing up in Staphylococcus aureus, one of the largest contributors to nosocomial (hospital aquired) infections, across the world. Quite often, these sorts of infections result in death. The first case in the United States was reported in Pennsylvania this past year (2002). This is not a Good Thing (tm).
Unfortunately, chances are that it's too late. Vancomycin resistance, like other antibiotic resistances, are genetically transferred. Once there is one report, expect more. I hate to be alarmist but we really don't have anyone to blame but ourselves. First, doctors should know better. They prescribe antibiotics for people with all sorts of maladies without checking to see if they are bacterial in nature. If you have a viral infection, antibiotics are not going to work. Antibiotics only target bacteria, not viruses. Second, when you are told to take all of your medicine and you don't, that allows the few bacteria that have survived to build up a tolerance. This tolerance eventually turns into resistance. Plenty of blame to go around.
Eventually, we might regress back into a pre-antibiotic age.
Wednesday, February 05, 2003
An Old Cherokee Saying?
An old Cherokee Indian was teaching his grandson about life.
"A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves."
"One wolf is evil...he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego."
"The other wolf is good...he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
"The same fight is going on inside you...and inside every other person, too."
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked, "Grandfather, which wolf will win."
The old Cherokee replied, "The one you feed."
Thanks to my deacon who sent that one my way. I don't know if it's an actual Cherokee story but it does give one something to think about regardless.
An old Cherokee Indian was teaching his grandson about life.
"A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves."
"One wolf is evil...he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego."
"The other wolf is good...he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
"The same fight is going on inside you...and inside every other person, too."
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked, "Grandfather, which wolf will win."
The old Cherokee replied, "The one you feed."
Thanks to my deacon who sent that one my way. I don't know if it's an actual Cherokee story but it does give one something to think about regardless.
Sunday, February 02, 2003
Idiots
Iraqis Call Shuttle Disaster God's Vengeance
Umm, whatever.
Iraqis Call Shuttle Disaster God's Vengeance
"We are happy that it broke up," government employee Abdul Jabbar al-Quraishi said.
"God wants to show that his might is greater than the Americans. They have encroached on our country. God is avenging us," he said.
Umm, whatever.
