LESSONS FROM ADOLF HITLER?
April 29, 2005
I’m sure that you’ve heard the expression, “Tell a lie often enough, and loud enough, and before long people will think you’re telling the truth.” Add a little compassion and the joining of souls, and you’ve captured your audience. So it was for Hitler and so it was long before him.
The lesson hasn’t been lost on many of our politicians in 2004. Tell the world that Bush went AWOL and that Kerry threw his medals away, and before long, it’s history: fact or not! Democrats believe Bush went AWOL, and Republicans believe Kerry threw his medals away. Who knows what the Independents believe.
There is some garbage that only a fool would fall for though. For me the most obvious recent “spin”, as O’Reilly would say, came from John Kerry himself. He’s now trying to get across to the down-and-out public that, as he puts it, “He feels their pain”.
Workers have too little health care, they are under paid, not appreciated, and their pension plans are way short of what they should be. He feels their pain, bro!
Really? How so? How does a man who is married into the Heinz fortune worth hundreds of millions able to do that? How does a man, who makes millionaire Bush look like a piker, that owns several mansions in various states and nations, come across as “feeling their pain”?
And what does it say to the “little man” when he hears that John Kerry flies in his hair-stylist and gets a trim job costing right at $1,000- as he did three days ago? I think he needs a new speech writer or at least a new publicity consultant if he thinks his “compassion theme” is going to fly.
Not even Hitler tried to sell that big of a “stink-bomb”.
AN AMAZING MIRACLE- NO INFLATION?
April 28, 2005
Every month the PPI and CPI (economic indicators)comes out saying that there is NO INFLATION! Last week, Alan Greenspan declared that DEFLATION had been whipped. So, what do we call this “nothingness”?
I don’t know about the rest of these United States, but from where I sit, everything seems to cost more. I’m sure that you’ve seen the cost go sky-high for filling up your vehicle with gas. Wow! We’re not talking pennies here. It now takes $2.00 more per tank for me to fill up compared to January.
I recently read an article that showed new home average prices in California had gone up 22% in March alone! Figure that one annually and I’m buying some real estate in the Golden State.
The bottom line has to be that the government is playing with the numbers or else we’re about to see them sky-rocket. Then maybe we could change how we measure inflation: take milk for an example. Krispy Creme is having to increase prices on those devilishly good donuts due to the rising cost of milk. And, to confirm it, yesterday, Starbucks said that they were going to have to increase the price of their latte’s due to milk price increases.
Got milk? At cheaper prices?
THE NATION OF……SELF!
April 27, 2005
I have to admit that I like going to Kroger’s these days. I mean I have my own “Kroger card”. I get a discount on my dog food, light bulbs, and white powdered donuts. Yeah, I buy a few other things, but I’m not the grocery shopper in our household.
It’s not just the card but the fact that I can check myself out. I don’t have to wait in line behind those families that buy for what looks to be a month. Standing in line to purchase 2-4 items when someone in front of you really needs two carts to hold their hurricane-laden supply of groceries is just too much for me. I use the SELF HELP check out.
Come to think of it, we really are moving to a SELF HELP world. The SELF HELP section of Barnes and Noble is now one of the largest divisions in the store. McDonalds has just announced that they are going be offering a McFood line. You order by computer, put in your credit card, and they’ll bring your food to your table or Playland where you and the kids are hanging out.
Did I mention that I just drive up to the window with my laundry and they take it and bring me my clothes as well? Studies show that people would rather drive through than get out and go in.
I can testify to that as well. There are three Starbucks in my neighborood (yes there is a god), but I only go to the one that has the drive-through. I’ve always favored Marriott for my hotel stays, and they were the first to allow me to check out via TV-computer.
Ahh, the good life! We live in a nation of SELF service and it’s getting more so- unfortunately in more ways than just “service”, are we a nation of- SELF!
DIVIDE & CONQUER STILL WORKS
April 26, 2005
It’s hard to believe that we still have seven more months of political junk left. We’re back to the decades old debate again about both men’s military service.
Did JFK throw his medals away or did he not? Did he just throw away his ribbons and not his medals? Did the medals belong to other soldiers? Becomig angry on ABC GMA Monday, Kerry got red-faced and went after Bush for his National Guard service: was he AWOL? One attack deserves another you know. We learned that from Israel & Palestine: or did they get it from us?
We have men and women in harms way, dying daily in the god-forsaken mountains of Afghanistan, in the deserts of Iraq, the slums of Fallujah, and the harbors of Basra: and this is what’s important to yak about?
I don’t know about you but I’m weary of the nonsense. I wonder if there is a seven month pill we could take that would make us immune to it all? I don’t know who said it, but wouldn’t it be great if both Kerry and Bush stood up and said that whoever won in November, their military policy towards Iraq would be the same?
The insurgents ploy for Italy to pull out or see their hostages killed didn’t work, so they are now saying that if enough Italians demonstrate in Rome against the war, they won’t kill the other three. Can’t we see this game? It’s divide and conquer. And aren’t they doing a great job of it all? Aren’t we falling for it in this election year, and inviting an attack like Spain?
Thank God that Bush’s numbers are still high. If they start to go down, we can expect the terrorists to increase their rhetoric and attacks to gain sympathy from the American public. I pray to God that we don’t fall for it.
PAT TILLMAN…..One More Time
April 24, 2005
This is the third and final (for now) comment on the LIFE of Pat Tillman. Over the weeks ahead, there will be numerous stories on him, memorials, and of course eventually a funeral.
Many public sports venues in Arizona will get a name change- to his. The NFL will capitalize on his fame as well. There’s nothing wrong with it, but Pat wouldn’t want the attention. These memorials though aren’t for him as much as they are for us.
Reviewing his LIFE reminds us, sets a standard, and shows us how far below the bar we have fallen. Seeing such selflessness convicts us of our self-absorbtion. He wasn’t even alive when John F. Kennedy planted a phrase in the American psyche that Tillman lived: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” He asked. He responded. Mission accomplished.
Pat did all that one man can do. It reminds me of another man, who 2000 years ago gave all that He could give as well- and so much more.
So, while we complain about the price of gasoline, rail about insufficient health insurance, and demand more government entitlements, a light just penetrated our darkened soul. Like the Light of 2,000 years ago, it’s glow was removed from us all too soon. However, though Pat is no longer with us physically, his spirit will live eternally.
My challenge, or challenge, is not only to emulate his heart, but to somehow pass his legacy on to our children as a modern-day example of one who demonstrated an even greater model for us 2,000 years ago.
PAT TILLMAN…………Continued
April 23, 2005
When I heard about his death Friday morning, I sat down at my computer and wrote the commentary. Somehow, I had forgotten to do it Thursday night and so the door was open.
In the last twenty four hours I have read numerous stories on him- most of which I already knew. The culmination of all those stories reminds me of the line in the movie, “Is This As Good As It Gets” wherein Jack Nicholson tells Diane Keaton, “You make me want to be a better man.”
Hearing Pat’s story over and over again leaves me with the proverbial good news-bad news feeling. Can a man (read mankind) really be that good? How can a man give up so much that the world cherishes to go after what seems to be so ideal, so right, so God?
As I examine my life I wonder if it’s possible to recapture some of the plans that God originally had for me- for us all. It’s both humbling and challenging to see the comparison of a life given to God, country, duty, and then look at what the rest of us sem to chase.
Audie Murphy just got replaced on my “hero” list. Pat Tillman has given me a glimpse of what we were built and intended to be. May I borrow another line from a recent movie (The Last Samurai), and say may his LIFE (not his death) be what I remember, and try to model.
FOR HIS GLORY & HONOR!
April 22, 2005
While many gutless Congressmen debate the merits of the War On Terrorism and question if we should have a draft or not, there are others who DO- and not just DEBATE!
If given a choice, would you take a $3.6 million NFL contract or decide to risk your life for your country in a god-forsaken land of Afghanistan for a pay of $18,000 a year? Duh!
While the tragedy of 9-11 is being debated and politically used, for Pat Tillman, 9-11 was a wake up call: it was his DUTY to respond. And that is why Pat decided to give up his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals and join his brother, Kevin, enlisting in the U.S. Army to become an elite Ranger.
He abruptly made the move because at 24 he was close to missing the age limit for Rangers. He wasn’t big at 5 foot 11 and barely 200 pounds; however, being able to start in the NFL and complete a 70 mile triathlon said something about his chemistry and will.
Tillman flew through basic training, parachute school, and Ranger indoctrination ready for combat with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. Only 35% of the candidates get to wear the coveted black and gold Ranger Tab. This remarkable individual who was the 226th draft pick in 1998 had a 3.84 grade point average and a desire unmatched.
Today, April 23rd, it was revealed that Pat Tillman (#40) was killed in action in Afghanistan. While we enjoy the comforts of our homes, seeking even more rest for our souls, Pat Tillman has found his final rest. And may we rediscover the true reality of what life is all about because of his life: one lived not for profit but for the glory and honor of His maker.
THE FOX AND THE CHICKENS!
April 21, 2005
Kerry and most Democrats want to turn over the fighting in Iraq to the U.N. I have already addressed this issue; however, there’s yet another side to this that I want to explore.
We all know that the U.N. is totally ineffective without the U.S. (we carry the fighting burden everywhere). Right after a bomb blew up in Baghdad at the U.N. Hotel, they pulled their people out. But there’s a more troubling issue here.
Do you think the Iraqis really want the U.N. protecting them? They know they can’t, but the issue goes deeper. The Iraqis also know that it was the U.N. that kept Saddam in power. It was the U.N. that gave billions to Saddam through the Food For Oil program that was more like Money For Saddam program.
It’s estimated that more than $10 BILLION was siphoned off this corrupt program, and it appears that France and Russia stole the most- along with some insiders at the U.N. Paul Volcker has been appointed to chair an invstigation, but without any real power!
The Security Council blocked any real teeth for Volcker. He has no legal authority! They don’t want the truth to be known. And the truth is? The truth is that the chickens in Iraq were being watched over by the foxes of the U.N. And everyone knows how that scenario ends.
MINORITIES & MAJORITIES
April 20, 2005
Our founding fathers were a lot more wise than we give them credit. Any political science student will recognize the fine balance that they wove between the powers of the majority and minority. Their concern went beyond the three branches of government that are now being clouded.
The majority could not wield too much power over their lesser rivals and neither could the minority hold the majority hostage to their whims.
Reading the Reuters news story on Jermaine Jackson’s trip to the Middle East brought me to a couple of mental debates. Jermaine has converted to Islam and it seems that too many of this religious persuasion have become radicals. If I am wrong, I must ask where are the peaceful Muslim clerics because they sure aren’t making the news. Jermaine is now saying that Muslims in America are the “new Negroes in America”. He says he is against Muslim extremism, but, what is that anyway? And where are they?
It seems that this minority religion is bent on making the world’s majority religion (and all others) subject to their desires. And within this minority of believers (1.2 to 1.6B followers) is a growing majority of radicals.
In the Western Christian faith, there are many nuts and wackos; however, they are by far a very small minority. And, Christianity and Catholicism doesn’t have as it’s goal or rhetoric, the predisposition to killing anyone (known as infidels) that won’t convert to their faith.
Let’s face it. One of the most important questions that society will have to address and answer in the coming decade is the role that all other religions must take to confront this growing majority of Muslim radicals bent on converting the world to their faith- even though they represent less than 25% of the worlds population.
GIVE IT UP - PUT IT TO BED!
April 19, 2005
I am amazed at the ‘hot potato’ game that most politicians play with Iraq and other problems. In addition to the crowd above, there is this international, one-world community that somehow sees all the people of the planet as one. I can hear the lyrics now, “We are the world.”
Give me a BREAK!
There are so many different cultures, paradigms, mindsets, and values that if there is a consensus, it’s that there isn’t a consensus. If you think I agree with the people-eating tribes of the world, you’ve got another think coming. I am also far from being a stalwart believer in Richard Gere’s Budhism, or Ghandi’s Hinduism, or any of the Muslim extremists. Did I mention I don’t agree with either Israeli or Palestinian societal life?
So, you want me to buy in to the idea that the U.N. has all the answers to life mindset? Think again! To JFK and all of those who want to turn Iraq over to the U.N., I ask this question. Would they take it? NO! Who would they ask to shoulder the burden: the U.S. of course.
And did you think Kofi Anan and the U.N. was some sort of purist entity? Well, wait til you hear the end of the Iraq food for oil program wherein U.N. reps stole more than $10 BILLION in hush money. Anan is rying to hide this one under the U.N. rug.
Listen, the U.N. is made up of a couple hundred nations who can’t agree on anything other than to meet and talk. If they did, one of the nations that has a veto on the Security Council would veto it. Or, we’d jaw-bone it to death for a couple of decades while tens of thousands of people died.
So, to JFK and all the other rabid U.N. fanatics- GET A LIFE, give it up, and put the crazy idea to bed!
IS THE NATION GOVERNABLE?
April 18, 2005
The liberal press is having a field day with the troubles in Iraq. If they had it their way, they’d pull our troops out immediately. Amazing. God forbid they have it their way.
Within an hour of being installed as the new prime minister of Spain, Jose Zapatero said he was immediately pulling his troops out of Iraq. I wonder who will be next? And if the commitment costs him the presidency, I believe Bush will stay the course.
We’ve spent in excess of a billion dollars to train a new army and police force and last week, they laid down their arms and refused to fight the insurgents: some turned on our men who had trained them. Is there anyone that can be trusted in Iraq.
With the latest battles on the Syrian border, the press is fast to say that we’ve lost 99 men so far in April. And you will see the number of the dead reported as front page news from here to eternity (read until we leave the nation).
Bremer now admits that the security forces we’ve trained there will not be ready to protect the people come June 30th. I think most people knew that. The real question is will the nation ever be safe- protectable?
WITH MUCH GRATITUDE
April 17, 2005
I got away for nearly 20 hours Friday and Saturday, visiting a unique B&B (one of my favorite past times) with a couple of friends. Texas has many fun places to stay; however, it’s still Texas and there’s no place like Mendocino, California (and the Headlands Inn B&B).
Matagorda Bay was the location (Palacios to be exact) where Earl and Gaye Hudson have an historic building and lots of fabulous rooms overlooking the Bay. They even fix a dinner for any guests who want to partake and it’s more than worth it. Did I mention the breakfast if out of this world as well? And that the name is Moonlight Bay. Pick the Moonglow room for value and amenities.
As I sit in my back yard with my laptop, enjoying the last few nghts of cool weather, I can’t help but reflect on what’s happening in other places around the world. So much of the world is in an entirely different state.
Another Hamas leader is taken out by the Israelis. More people are taken hostage in Iraq, and more of our soldiers die. Poverty abounds in so much of the world, not to mention terrorism and sickness.
If ever I had a thought about not being satisfied with my life, the last two days erased that quickly. It is with much gratitude and thankfulness that I enjoy my place in life, my family, my friends, my world, my God.
DIVIDE & CONQUER TACTICS
April 15, 2005
And you thought UBL was one bright terrorist? His ploy Thursday was anything but smart. It was actually just what the doctor ordered for George Bush.
You see, Spain caved in big time when UBL’s bomb squad blew up the trains in Madrid. So, with that success, UBL played the intimidation card and offered all of Europe “peace” that only UBL can broker, if they would quit killing Iraqis and turn against the U.S. No one accepted the offer: not even France or Germany.
The sissy leadership that now heads up Spain’s populace is into social issues and out of world terrorism issues. In fact, they are now going to make same sex marriages legal. Now that’s a really important issue in light of international turmoil.
South of the border, Hugo Chavez, now the dictator of Venezuela, is trying to turn all of South America against the U.S. as well. Even Colombia, his next door neighbor, isn’t buyig it. Give idiots enough rope and even those that look bright for a season, stumble over their own shoe laces.
So, another day passes for UBL to spin his legacy or hate and division. History shows us that those who try to divide and conquer are in the end on the losing side. It’s just a matter of time. UBL will himself die by that same sword that he currently wields.
THE POT JUDGING THE KETTLE
April 14, 2005
Ah, the humor in it all. I don’t think there is a person in America who believes that the 9-11 commission is UN-biased. Maybe someone out there thinks so
I’ve watched a few minutes here and there and you would know who the Republicans were by the questions they asked: the same for the Democrats. Each party is out to make their points. And oh how they love to cast blame.
I happened to tune in for John Ashcroft’s introductory comment yesterday. He went after the “system” for being broken. He talked not about personalities or parties but about concepts and constructs that had killed any ability to keep 9-11 from happening.
And finally, he said part of the building of the “wall”, the inability to track the bad guys, was as a result of one of the committee members. In other words, one of the members of the commission who was trying to figure out what the problem was, was the problem!
John didn’t name the person but everyone knew he was talking about Clinton’s Deputy Attorney General under Janet Reno, Ms. Gorelick. It’s now well known and though there have been calls for her to step down, she won’t.
I see it as much like Mel Gibson’s film though. It wasn’t the Jews, nor is it the “other guys”. We’re all to blame for 9-11 because we are a nation of “too nice” people who don’t go to war until attacked. Bush is changing that- maybe.
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