Showing posts with label Citizenship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Citizenship. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Tenth Amendment to The Constitution of the United States of America
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. ~ Ratified December 15, 1791
Sunday, January 22, 2012
How do I vote thee? Let me count the ways ....
My wife reminded me of a different view toward casting that important decision in November 2012.
It's not about the candidate, its about what he represents; its about what his party represents. We must set aside our like or dislike of the final candidate for whichever party we most closely align ourselves to and vote in that direction.
Do you believe that a woman's right to convenience outweighs the right to an unborn child's life? Do you believe that our nation should be governed by a foreign collective, the UN, instead of by representatives duly elected by the people? Do you believe that homosexuals deserve special treatment; that, contrary to their own vocal demands for "equality", they should be a protected class, given preferential bias in all areas of American society and culture? Do you believe that no one should have to take personal responsibility for their actions and that, instead, the government will protect those who lack or fail to exercise common sense, from themselves and from society? Do you believe that the Federal Government has the intelligence, foresight and capacity to creatively make your life decisions for you? Do you believe that the Federal Government is better equipped to make parental decisions for your children? Do you believe that it is better to keep generations of citizens in poverty, continuing to feed, house, clothe, and minimally educate them so that the vast majority they will never rise above their current living condition. Do you believe that striving for success in America, for any reason other than increasing your ability to give your success away at the mandate of the Federal Government, is wrong?
If you believe all these things, then you should vote for the Democrat candidate, whomever he or she may be.
If, however, you disagree with these concepts, then your vote must logically be cast in another direction.
Do you believe that God created life and holds it to be a precious? Do you believe that the Constitution of The United States of America is, and should continue to be, the sole source of law in America? Do you understand and believe that homosexuals are already protected by exactly the same laws that protect heterosexuals and that they are not deserving of anything special or different solely because they choose to live differently? Do you believe that, according to all existing laws and God's design, that each of us has a free will and that we must be held accountable for the exercise of that will and that we must rightly suffer the just consequences, good and bad, of our decisions and choices? Do you understand that the Federal Government is made up of common men and women and that each of them suffers the same flaws and weaknesses that each and every other one of us do; that they are not "super wise and intelligent" people that we should blindly follow? Do you believe that the parent is best equipped to raise their own children in the manner of each family's personal views and beliefs and that the Government has no place in that decision making process, other than in the exercise of common law?
These beliefs best represent a vote for a Republican candidate, whomever that candidate may be.
Somewhere between these two views are the Libertarians and you might discover your vote properly belongs there.
In any case, please, don't throw away your vote, and your country, by voting for or against a face, a name, a suit, a hair style, an accent, a spouse or a skin color. Don 't diminish yourself by voting for an attitude. Vote for the party that best represents your views; and then pray that God will guide the individual who comes out in the lead.
BTW, exercise common sense; just because one party claims to be the ONLY party that represents a particular view, keep in mind that politics is primarily a popularity contest and telling you what you want to hear is the most employed tactic.
I remember being in McAllen, TX on the eve of the Clinton/Bush election and hearing Bill Clinton tell a crowd of 10,000+ on the airport tarmac that, if he was elected, he would guarantee a free college education to all their children. This was a ridiculous promise, but the crowd roared its approval, and I'm sure that Governor Clinton chuckled all the way back to his plane seat, certain that more than a few would vote for him just because of that one farcical bit of last minute grandstanding. Politicians have always known, and counted on, what P.T. Barnum reportedly said, "There's a sucker born every minute."; some parties count on them more than others.
Democrat Party Platforms
Libertarian Party Platforms
Republican Party Platforms
It's not about the candidate, its about what he represents; its about what his party represents. We must set aside our like or dislike of the final candidate for whichever party we most closely align ourselves to and vote in that direction.
Do you believe that a woman's right to convenience outweighs the right to an unborn child's life? Do you believe that our nation should be governed by a foreign collective, the UN, instead of by representatives duly elected by the people? Do you believe that homosexuals deserve special treatment; that, contrary to their own vocal demands for "equality", they should be a protected class, given preferential bias in all areas of American society and culture? Do you believe that no one should have to take personal responsibility for their actions and that, instead, the government will protect those who lack or fail to exercise common sense, from themselves and from society? Do you believe that the Federal Government has the intelligence, foresight and capacity to creatively make your life decisions for you? Do you believe that the Federal Government is better equipped to make parental decisions for your children? Do you believe that it is better to keep generations of citizens in poverty, continuing to feed, house, clothe, and minimally educate them so that the vast majority they will never rise above their current living condition. Do you believe that striving for success in America, for any reason other than increasing your ability to give your success away at the mandate of the Federal Government, is wrong?
If you believe all these things, then you should vote for the Democrat candidate, whomever he or she may be.
If, however, you disagree with these concepts, then your vote must logically be cast in another direction.
Do you believe that God created life and holds it to be a precious? Do you believe that the Constitution of The United States of America is, and should continue to be, the sole source of law in America? Do you understand and believe that homosexuals are already protected by exactly the same laws that protect heterosexuals and that they are not deserving of anything special or different solely because they choose to live differently? Do you believe that, according to all existing laws and God's design, that each of us has a free will and that we must be held accountable for the exercise of that will and that we must rightly suffer the just consequences, good and bad, of our decisions and choices? Do you understand that the Federal Government is made up of common men and women and that each of them suffers the same flaws and weaknesses that each and every other one of us do; that they are not "super wise and intelligent" people that we should blindly follow? Do you believe that the parent is best equipped to raise their own children in the manner of each family's personal views and beliefs and that the Government has no place in that decision making process, other than in the exercise of common law?
These beliefs best represent a vote for a Republican candidate, whomever that candidate may be.
Somewhere between these two views are the Libertarians and you might discover your vote properly belongs there.
In any case, please, don't throw away your vote, and your country, by voting for or against a face, a name, a suit, a hair style, an accent, a spouse or a skin color. Don 't diminish yourself by voting for an attitude. Vote for the party that best represents your views; and then pray that God will guide the individual who comes out in the lead.
BTW, exercise common sense; just because one party claims to be the ONLY party that represents a particular view, keep in mind that politics is primarily a popularity contest and telling you what you want to hear is the most employed tactic.
I remember being in McAllen, TX on the eve of the Clinton/Bush election and hearing Bill Clinton tell a crowd of 10,000+ on the airport tarmac that, if he was elected, he would guarantee a free college education to all their children. This was a ridiculous promise, but the crowd roared its approval, and I'm sure that Governor Clinton chuckled all the way back to his plane seat, certain that more than a few would vote for him just because of that one farcical bit of last minute grandstanding. Politicians have always known, and counted on, what P.T. Barnum reportedly said, "There's a sucker born every minute."; some parties count on them more than others.
Democrat Party Platforms
Libertarian Party Platforms
Republican Party Platforms
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
a Believers vote
Who will I vote for?
I will never vote for any politician who endorses a "right" to abortion.
I will never vote for any politician who endorses any type of restriction of my Second Amendment RIGHT to own and possess firearms.
I will never vote for any politician who endorses any type of restriction on my Constitutional RIGHT to a free expression of religion.
The rest is up for discussion.
I will never vote for any politician who endorses a "right" to abortion.
I will never vote for any politician who endorses any type of restriction of my Second Amendment RIGHT to own and possess firearms.
I will never vote for any politician who endorses any type of restriction on my Constitutional RIGHT to a free expression of religion.
The rest is up for discussion.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
This young man, Troy Ard, absolutely gets it; what is important, what is right and what is wrong in our overly politicized America.
In The First Person
"As long as we have two parties who would rather stop each other than serve the national interest, there is no hope for our future. Until our politicians can climb from the mud and work for the hope of a better day yet to come, today will be as good as it gets. Until liberals, both classic and neoliberals, can put aside popularity for pragmatism, there is no political gain. Unless conservatives can realize that it is better to be honest and to admit that there is no option but shared sacrifice—the real kind, not Joe Biden’s kind—where all classes, races, and citizens must work as one nation to serve one singular purpose as one American people, then there are no conservatives–no federalists–at all."
In The First Person
"As long as we have two parties who would rather stop each other than serve the national interest, there is no hope for our future. Until our politicians can climb from the mud and work for the hope of a better day yet to come, today will be as good as it gets. Until liberals, both classic and neoliberals, can put aside popularity for pragmatism, there is no political gain. Unless conservatives can realize that it is better to be honest and to admit that there is no option but shared sacrifice—the real kind, not Joe Biden’s kind—where all classes, races, and citizens must work as one nation to serve one singular purpose as one American people, then there are no conservatives–no federalists–at all."
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
fast and furious response by Senator Cornyn
I received this email today from Senator John Cornyn regarding the criminal activities of the Justice Department relating to the Fast and Furious debacle. This is the complete transcript of the email.
Dear Mr. Larson:
Thank you for contacting me about the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ (ATF) Fast and Furious operation. I share your concern and appreciate having the benefit of your comments on this important matter.
As you are aware, recent congressional investigations have revealed the existence of a controversial "gun-walking" program operated by the ATF in Phoenix, Arizona. The ATF, despite its mandate to curtail gun trafficking activities, was actively funneling firearms to drug cartel gun buyers. The ATF has stated that the Fast and Furious operation was an attempt to target and track drug cartel leaders; however, the agency admits that they lost track of thousands of firearms in the process. Many of these firearms turned up at crimes scenes on both sides of the border, including at the murder of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry in Arizona and during a January and April 2010 seizure of 60 guns in El Paso, Texas.
I wrote to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder following press reports of an alleged Texas-based "gun-walking" program similar to the Fast and Furious operation. In this letter, I demanded answers regarding additional media reports that revealed that ATF managers who directed the Fast and Furious operation were offered new positions in the ATF’s Washington headquarters. Attorney General Holder and Justice Department officials must be held accountable, and until they provide answers regarding all alleged gun-walking operations, it is inconceivable to reward those who spearheaded this disastrous operation with new assignments in Washington.
Furthermore, I introduced an amendment to the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2012 (H.R. 2112) that will bar taxpayer funds from being used by the Justice Department to conduct gun-walking programs similar to the Fast and Furious operation, and I am pleased that this amendment passed with unanimous, bipartisan support in the Senate. This bipartisan effort is just the first step towards ensuring that such a foolish operation can never be repeated.
I appreciate having the opportunity to represent Texans in the United States Senate, and you may be certain that I will continue working to provide strict oversight of the Obama Administration. Thank you for taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator
517 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Tel: (202) 224-2934
Fax: (202) 228-2856
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Obama decries religious theme of "Christmas"
Here just one more example of the anti-Christian, anti-God philosophy of President Obama and his administration. A friend posted this on his Facebook page:
"Thought you might be interested in this information from the White House. This isn't a rumor; this is a fact."
"We have a friend at church who is a very talented artist. For several years she, among many others, has painted ornaments to be hung on the various White House Christmas trees. The WH sends out an invitation to send an ornament and informs the artists of the theme for the year."
"She got her letter from the WH recently. It said that they would not be called Christmas trees this year. They will be called Holiday trees. And, to please not send any ornaments painted with a religious theme."
"She was very upset at this development and sent back a reply telling them that she painted the ornaments for Christmas trees and would not be sending any for display that left Christ out of Christmas."
"Just thought you should know what the new residents in the WH plan for the future of America. If you missed his statement that "we do not consider ourselves a Christian Nation" this should confirm that he plans to take us away from our religious foundation as quickly as possible."
Those of you who call yourselves "Christian" and voted for Obama, and plan to vote for Obama again, please bear in mind that his intention remains to put and keep Christianity "under a bushel" in this nation.
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." ~ Matthew 5:14-16
"Thought you might be interested in this information from the White House. This isn't a rumor; this is a fact."
"We have a friend at church who is a very talented artist. For several years she, among many others, has painted ornaments to be hung on the various White House Christmas trees. The WH sends out an invitation to send an ornament and informs the artists of the theme for the year."
"She got her letter from the WH recently. It said that they would not be called Christmas trees this year. They will be called Holiday trees. And, to please not send any ornaments painted with a religious theme."
"She was very upset at this development and sent back a reply telling them that she painted the ornaments for Christmas trees and would not be sending any for display that left Christ out of Christmas."
"Just thought you should know what the new residents in the WH plan for the future of America. If you missed his statement that "we do not consider ourselves a Christian Nation" this should confirm that he plans to take us away from our religious foundation as quickly as possible."
Those of you who call yourselves "Christian" and voted for Obama, and plan to vote for Obama again, please bear in mind that his intention remains to put and keep Christianity "under a bushel" in this nation.
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." ~ Matthew 5:14-16
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
"set apart and observe the last Thursday of November ... as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise"
October 3, 1863
By the President of the United States
A Proclamation
A Proclamation
The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.
In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and provoke their aggressions, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict; while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
No human counsel hath devised, nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that, while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation, and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United Stated States to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.
Abraham Lincoln
Monday, November 14, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
The sleeping giant that is apathetic America must awaken now if we are to survive as a democratic republic, a free, self governing people.
60% of eligible voters in this country typically will stay home and allow their fates to be decided by the minority who chose to use that which so many have fought and died for; the right to vote.
I challenge you to be among the few and encourage you to encourage others to get up and take action to continue the great American experiment that is this democratic republic, The United States of America.
60% of eligible voters in this country typically will stay home and allow their fates to be decided by the minority who chose to use that which so many have fought and died for; the right to vote.
I challenge you to be among the few and encourage you to encourage others to get up and take action to continue the great American experiment that is this democratic republic, The United States of America.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
life at 40 hours
I work hard for my money, and, if I was fortunate enough to earn enough to buy a yacht, my yacht would probably have two wheels, but I would be satisfied that I had earned it and it would be mine by the sweat of my brows and the work of my hands and no free loader's gonna take that away.
Many "millionaires" started as small business owners and were successful to the 'nth degree (ben and jerry, HEB, Kroger, etc....) They worked hard, put in their time and hired thousands of folks and today, due to their successes, they employ thousands more and more and more and more every day. Sam Walton started as a small business owner and the list can be strung out for days and days of "small business owners" who made it to millionaire/biliionaire status.
That's the American way. Work hard, enjoy your success.
As far as I'm concerned, they earned it and they should be entitled to reap what they sowed. Should they pay a fair share of taxes? They already do, and then some. The richest "1%" of Americans pay the lion's share of taxes and have for generations.
I've been told I should stop watching Fox news and get the real story. I don't spend much time watching Fox, (I don't have cable/sattelite and only get to watch Fox on my break at my JOB) but, o.k., I'll stop watching Fox news completely. I never did care much for Sean Hannity and, to be honest, the talking heads at Fox are not much more balanced than the talking heads at MSNBC, CNN, NBC, CBS and ABC. Maybe I should join the rest of the "puddin heads" and just believe everything Behar and Winfrey have to say!
I read and follow a lot of news and opininon on Twitter, both conservative and liberal. Should I also stop following all these? Where am I going to get my information, Calvin and Hobbes?
OWS is a sad joke, a pitiful commentary of the State of the Union, a Union run by generations of "Fat Cat" politicians, Democrats and Republicans, but lets not look at the facts, that would take all the fun out of the discussion. Let's just keep blaming George Bush, both of 'em, for all of the ills our country faces.
Six years from now, the Republicans will be blaming Obama, 10 years later the new Democrat President will be blaming the last Republican Presidents and so on and so on and nothing will ever change, except we'll look like England again, with insane taxation and millions of folks on a willingly self imposed slavery to the government.
Then the hordes will come and we'll see the end of this great experiment called America!
Gotta go to work now, I have a long twelve hours ahead of me to support my family and my "extravagant lifestyle".
Many "millionaires" started as small business owners and were successful to the 'nth degree (ben and jerry, HEB, Kroger, etc....) They worked hard, put in their time and hired thousands of folks and today, due to their successes, they employ thousands more and more and more and more every day. Sam Walton started as a small business owner and the list can be strung out for days and days of "small business owners" who made it to millionaire/biliionaire status.
That's the American way. Work hard, enjoy your success.
As far as I'm concerned, they earned it and they should be entitled to reap what they sowed. Should they pay a fair share of taxes? They already do, and then some. The richest "1%" of Americans pay the lion's share of taxes and have for generations.
I've been told I should stop watching Fox news and get the real story. I don't spend much time watching Fox, (I don't have cable/sattelite and only get to watch Fox on my break at my JOB) but, o.k., I'll stop watching Fox news completely. I never did care much for Sean Hannity and, to be honest, the talking heads at Fox are not much more balanced than the talking heads at MSNBC, CNN, NBC, CBS and ABC. Maybe I should join the rest of the "puddin heads" and just believe everything Behar and Winfrey have to say!
I read and follow a lot of news and opininon on Twitter, both conservative and liberal. Should I also stop following all these? Where am I going to get my information, Calvin and Hobbes?
OWS is a sad joke, a pitiful commentary of the State of the Union, a Union run by generations of "Fat Cat" politicians, Democrats and Republicans, but lets not look at the facts, that would take all the fun out of the discussion. Let's just keep blaming George Bush, both of 'em, for all of the ills our country faces.
Six years from now, the Republicans will be blaming Obama, 10 years later the new Democrat President will be blaming the last Republican Presidents and so on and so on and nothing will ever change, except we'll look like England again, with insane taxation and millions of folks on a willingly self imposed slavery to the government.
Then the hordes will come and we'll see the end of this great experiment called America!
Gotta go to work now, I have a long twelve hours ahead of me to support my family and my "extravagant lifestyle".
7 minutes ago ·
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
been there done that; failed
"Europeans today prefer leisure to performance, security to risk-taking, paternalism to free markets, collectivism and group entitlements to individualism. They have always been more risk-averse than Americans, but the difference continues to grow. Economic freedom has a very low priority here. It seems that Europeans are not interested in capitalism and free markets and do not understand that their current behavior undermines the very institutions that made their past success possible. They are eager to defend their non-economic freedoms—the easiness, looseness, laxity and permissiveness of modern or post-modern European society—but when it comes to their economic freedoms, they are quite indifferent.
The critical situation in Europe today is visible to everybody. It is not possible to hide it. I had believed that this spectacle would be a help to the cause of political and economic freedom in Europe, but this is not proving to be the case. Of course, with the way your American government has been going, you might be able to catch up with us—in terms of our problems—very soon. But you are not as far along yet. So maybe seeing Europe’s crisis today will at least help you in America turn back toward freedom." ~ Václav Klaus, President, Czech Republic
The Crisis of the European Union: Causes and Significance
The critical situation in Europe today is visible to everybody. It is not possible to hide it. I had believed that this spectacle would be a help to the cause of political and economic freedom in Europe, but this is not proving to be the case. Of course, with the way your American government has been going, you might be able to catch up with us—in terms of our problems—very soon. But you are not as far along yet. So maybe seeing Europe’s crisis today will at least help you in America turn back toward freedom." ~ Václav Klaus, President, Czech Republic
The Crisis of the European Union: Causes and Significance
Friday, October 07, 2011
"competent christian vs competent non-christian"
In an interview with CNN, mega church pastor Robert Jeffress said Republicans shouldn't vote for White House hopeful Mitt Romney because he's a Mormon and described the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a "cult".
Are Mormons a "cult"? Based upon the Biblical standard of one true God, they are not a "Christian" denomination as defined by the protestant faith. Their "Jesus" is not Jesus, the Biblical Son of the One True God, but another man altogether. Their religion is based upon the premise that man may become "god", by following the precepts of their faith. They may well follow " a Christ", but he is not The Christ as defined in the Holy Bible.
Mormonism Research Ministry
Stepping back to the central question of whether or not a Bible believer should vote for a Mormon, or for any non-Christian, I think we need to separate our intentions. Are we electing a civil leader or a religious leader? The Constitution is quite clear that our government shall establish no religion" and "no religious test shall ever be required" for public office; I think we need to set the issue aside unless and until we can make a clear determination of "who follows what". At least, in Romney, we know what we're getting, as opposed to so many "Christians on the surface" who vote and represent us in a manner clearly contradictory to the teachings of the Bible.
Amendment 1 - Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Article Six (part three) - The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.
That being said, I would not cast a ballot for an avowed atheist because this candidate clearly would be an immoral person and that would be reflected in every decision he or she made. "Immoral" in this context is defined by me as subscribing to no definable standard of conduct.
If the choices are a "hypothetical christian" (as in Obama) vs a "cult christian", (as in Romney), I think we have to let the issue of religion drop and look to their platform on the issues alone. Clearly, from the perspective of a protestant Bible believer, neither candidate will reflect the God of Abraham and Isaac, God the Father, "I Am".
"And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, "I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie, I will give it to you and to your descendants." ~ Genesis 28:13
Are Mormons a "cult"? Based upon the Biblical standard of one true God, they are not a "Christian" denomination as defined by the protestant faith. Their "Jesus" is not Jesus, the Biblical Son of the One True God, but another man altogether. Their religion is based upon the premise that man may become "god", by following the precepts of their faith. They may well follow " a Christ", but he is not The Christ as defined in the Holy Bible.
Mormonism Research Ministry
Stepping back to the central question of whether or not a Bible believer should vote for a Mormon, or for any non-Christian, I think we need to separate our intentions. Are we electing a civil leader or a religious leader? The Constitution is quite clear that our government shall establish no religion" and "no religious test shall ever be required" for public office; I think we need to set the issue aside unless and until we can make a clear determination of "who follows what". At least, in Romney, we know what we're getting, as opposed to so many "Christians on the surface" who vote and represent us in a manner clearly contradictory to the teachings of the Bible.
Amendment 1 - Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Article Six (part three) - The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.
That being said, I would not cast a ballot for an avowed atheist because this candidate clearly would be an immoral person and that would be reflected in every decision he or she made. "Immoral" in this context is defined by me as subscribing to no definable standard of conduct.
If the choices are a "hypothetical christian" (as in Obama) vs a "cult christian", (as in Romney), I think we have to let the issue of religion drop and look to their platform on the issues alone. Clearly, from the perspective of a protestant Bible believer, neither candidate will reflect the God of Abraham and Isaac, God the Father, "I Am".
"And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, "I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie, I will give it to you and to your descendants." ~ Genesis 28:13
"And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you." Exodus 3:14
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Tea Party
I am curious why some of my friends are opposed to the "Tea Parties" that have spread across the American political landscape in recent years. I have not visited a Tea Party gathering but I have read of them and their philosophies and am, in general, in line with their thinking.
The TeaParty.net site stated this:
Our mission is to recruit like-minded Americans to the Tea Party movement in order to advance the principles of limited government, fiscal restraint, and individual liberty at all levels of government through promotion and education.
The Tea Party movement is a grassroots movement of millions of like-minded Americans from all backgrounds and political parties. Tea Party members share similar core principles supporting the United States Constitution as the Founders intended, such as
Limited federal government
Individual freedoms
Personal responsibility
Free markets
Returning political power to the states and the people
The San Antonio Tea Party had this to say:
I am in favor of these Constitutionally minded tenants and hope to attend a local meeting sometime in the near future in order to see if the fuss I'm hearing in the news media is real, or just another distraction from the vastly liberal minded media.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
The TeaParty.net site stated this:
Our mission is to recruit like-minded Americans to the Tea Party movement in order to advance the principles of limited government, fiscal restraint, and individual liberty at all levels of government through promotion and education.
The Tea Party movement is a grassroots movement of millions of like-minded Americans from all backgrounds and political parties. Tea Party members share similar core principles supporting the United States Constitution as the Founders intended, such as
Limited federal government
Individual freedoms
Personal responsibility
Free markets
Returning political power to the states and the people
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The San Antonio Tea Party had this to say:
Mission of the San Antonio Tea Party
“ to restore government by and for the people”
We the People …
RECOGNIZE …
that God grants to all people certain unalienable rights,…
that people in turn grant to governments their consent to be governed, and…
that government’s role is defined by the people to preserve those rights.
that people in turn grant to governments their consent to be governed, and…
that government’s role is defined by the people to preserve those rights.
We the People …
ACKNOWLEDGE …
the concept of American Exceptionalism, that the United States of America is a “city upon a hill,” a beacon of good at home and abroad.
We the People …
DEFINE…
the mission of the San Antonio TEA Party, Inc., is to educate and advocate for…
maintenance of a strong national defense to retain our National sovereignty,…
protection of individual rights and liberties while promoting personal responsibility, morality, and religious expression,…
strict adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law, and …
exercise of limited government, sound fiscal policies, and free enterprise.
maintenance of a strong national defense to retain our National sovereignty,…
protection of individual rights and liberties while promoting personal responsibility, morality, and religious expression,…
strict adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law, and …
exercise of limited government, sound fiscal policies, and free enterprise.
We the People …
COMMIT to…
remain non-partisan in our efforts, …
ensure government policies and actions are in keeping with our mission objectives, and …
hold our government officials accountable to …
ensure government policies and actions are in keeping with our mission objectives, and …
hold our government officials accountable to …
We the People!
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meeting my expectations
So, here's the thing; I will never find a politician who meets all of my expectations and agrees with all of my personal philosophies, and neither will you. I haven't even discovered a "Founding Father" who meets all of my points!
The best we can hope for is to find candidates who agree with most of our key issues. The best we can do, in voting with a logical, emotionless participation, is to make a list of issues that are important to us and seek out those who agree by the largest percentage. The alternative is to not vote at all.
I admit I tend to vote predominately Republican and that's because the party platform, both locally and nationally supports most of my hot issues. I have voted for Democrats on occasion, primarily for local Judges and county law enforcement, and a Libertarian here and there.
I believe in God, the God of Abraham, Issac and Joseph and I believe in His Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus. I will not support any candidate who is not ready to fight to protect my 1st Amendment right to worship freely and to exercise my beliefs in peace. The argument about the "separation of church and state" is not supported by the Constitution of the United States.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." ~ The First Amendment to The Constitution of The United States
I am wholeheartedly against abortion and I will not cast a vote for any candidate who has shown a history, inclination or vocalized support for abortion. If all the candidates for a particular office support the legalized sanction of fetal murder, I don't vote for any candidate.
I favor candidates who take a tough, no nonsense stand on crime and punishment. When the laws of our land are not enforced by pacifist judges, weak prosecutors and ineffective local law enforcement, i look for someone who is not afraid to speak up and stand for public and personal safety.
I support the Second Amendment right of citizens to freely own, possess and carry guns. I believe every moral minded, law abiding, mentally sound American should be carrying a weapon at all times.
If you study the early periods in our history and culture (pre-1900) you will find a minimal presence of violent crime against individuals and society. Justice was swift and hard and folks felt, and were, for the most part safe in their homes and communities. Crimes were few and criminals were swiftly caught and punished.
"The society of late twentieth century America is perhaps the first in human history where most grown men do not routinely bear arms on their persons and boys are not regularly raised from childhood to learn skill in the use of some kind of weapon, either for community or personal defense − club or spear, broadsword or long bow, rifle or Bowie knife. It also happens to be one of the rudest and crudest societies in history, having jubilantly swept most of the etiquette of speech, table, dress, hospitality, fairness, deference to authority and the relations of male and female and child and elder under the fraying and filthy carpet of politically convenient illusions. With little fear of physical reprisal Americans can be as loud, gross, disrespectful, pushy, and negligent as they please. If more people carried rapiers at their belts, or revolvers on their hips, It is a fair bet you would be able to go to a movie and enjoy he dialogue from the screen without having to endure the small talk, family gossip and assorted bodily noises that many theater audiences these days regularly emit. Today, discourtesy is commonplace precisely because there is no price to pay for it." ~ Samuel Francis via Jeff Cooper's Commentaries Vol. 1, No. 1 2/53
It was an armed populace that freed us from the tyranny of an oppressive King and it is an armed populace that helps to keep the wolves of foreign aggression from these shores.
I believe that the idea for this nation was sound, that the Constitution is a workable ethic and that those who would desire to live here, in peace, should subscribe to the same. Those who would enjoy the freedoms of living in America and who are ready, willing and able to abide by the laws of the land are welcome. Immigration is not a hot issue with me, but I understand the strain of financially supporting the non-tax paying residents of our nation and I look for candidates who offer sound, compassionate, workable solutions to the problem of illegal immigration. I believe, at a minimum, that candidates for citizenship in the United States should be able to read and speak English to the degree necessary to comprehend and follow the laws and customs of our country, to complete legal forms (drivers license applications, etc.) and to vote using the same ballot I use.
The best we can hope for is to find candidates who agree with most of our key issues. The best we can do, in voting with a logical, emotionless participation, is to make a list of issues that are important to us and seek out those who agree by the largest percentage. The alternative is to not vote at all.
I admit I tend to vote predominately Republican and that's because the party platform, both locally and nationally supports most of my hot issues. I have voted for Democrats on occasion, primarily for local Judges and county law enforcement, and a Libertarian here and there.
I believe in God, the God of Abraham, Issac and Joseph and I believe in His Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus. I will not support any candidate who is not ready to fight to protect my 1st Amendment right to worship freely and to exercise my beliefs in peace. The argument about the "separation of church and state" is not supported by the Constitution of the United States.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." ~ The First Amendment to The Constitution of The United States
I am wholeheartedly against abortion and I will not cast a vote for any candidate who has shown a history, inclination or vocalized support for abortion. If all the candidates for a particular office support the legalized sanction of fetal murder, I don't vote for any candidate.
I favor candidates who take a tough, no nonsense stand on crime and punishment. When the laws of our land are not enforced by pacifist judges, weak prosecutors and ineffective local law enforcement, i look for someone who is not afraid to speak up and stand for public and personal safety.
I support the Second Amendment right of citizens to freely own, possess and carry guns. I believe every moral minded, law abiding, mentally sound American should be carrying a weapon at all times.
If you study the early periods in our history and culture (pre-1900) you will find a minimal presence of violent crime against individuals and society. Justice was swift and hard and folks felt, and were, for the most part safe in their homes and communities. Crimes were few and criminals were swiftly caught and punished.
"The society of late twentieth century America is perhaps the first in human history where most grown men do not routinely bear arms on their persons and boys are not regularly raised from childhood to learn skill in the use of some kind of weapon, either for community or personal defense − club or spear, broadsword or long bow, rifle or Bowie knife. It also happens to be one of the rudest and crudest societies in history, having jubilantly swept most of the etiquette of speech, table, dress, hospitality, fairness, deference to authority and the relations of male and female and child and elder under the fraying and filthy carpet of politically convenient illusions. With little fear of physical reprisal Americans can be as loud, gross, disrespectful, pushy, and negligent as they please. If more people carried rapiers at their belts, or revolvers on their hips, It is a fair bet you would be able to go to a movie and enjoy he dialogue from the screen without having to endure the small talk, family gossip and assorted bodily noises that many theater audiences these days regularly emit. Today, discourtesy is commonplace precisely because there is no price to pay for it." ~ Samuel Francis via Jeff Cooper's Commentaries Vol. 1, No. 1 2/53
It was an armed populace that freed us from the tyranny of an oppressive King and it is an armed populace that helps to keep the wolves of foreign aggression from these shores.
I believe that the idea for this nation was sound, that the Constitution is a workable ethic and that those who would desire to live here, in peace, should subscribe to the same. Those who would enjoy the freedoms of living in America and who are ready, willing and able to abide by the laws of the land are welcome. Immigration is not a hot issue with me, but I understand the strain of financially supporting the non-tax paying residents of our nation and I look for candidates who offer sound, compassionate, workable solutions to the problem of illegal immigration. I believe, at a minimum, that candidates for citizenship in the United States should be able to read and speak English to the degree necessary to comprehend and follow the laws and customs of our country, to complete legal forms (drivers license applications, etc.) and to vote using the same ballot I use.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
the end of reason
British MP: 'Force Churches to Perform Same-Sex Unions or Close Them Down'
This is why I oppose the normalization and legalization of homosexual unions and this is why we, who call ourselves by the name of Jesus, must continue to oppose this in America. It begins with "union" and ends in legally sanctioned, forced intolerance against those who are deemed "intolerant".
It is all about the continued effort to force God out of society. It is all about the plan of Satan to destroy the faith in God that we, in this country, once taught our children as a normal, ingrained, facet of our family life, our society and our culture.
This is why we must continue to stand against those who oppose God and stand up for freedom of religion in America.
"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." Mark 8:38 NASB
It is truly all about God. Are you for Him or are you against Him?
United States Constitution Wiki
Amendment One: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
This is why I oppose the normalization and legalization of homosexual unions and this is why we, who call ourselves by the name of Jesus, must continue to oppose this in America. It begins with "union" and ends in legally sanctioned, forced intolerance against those who are deemed "intolerant".
It is all about the continued effort to force God out of society. It is all about the plan of Satan to destroy the faith in God that we, in this country, once taught our children as a normal, ingrained, facet of our family life, our society and our culture.
This is why we must continue to stand against those who oppose God and stand up for freedom of religion in America.
"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." Mark 8:38 NASB
It is truly all about God. Are you for Him or are you against Him?
United States Constitution Wiki
Amendment One: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Sunday, September 18, 2011
in simplest terms
author unknown
In Simplest Terms: Why The U.S. Was Downgraded
Let's remove 8 zeros and pretend it's a household budget:
author unknown
In Simplest Terms: Why The U.S. Was Downgraded
- U.S. Tax revenue: $2,170,000,000,000
- Fed budget: $3,820,000,000,000
- New debt: $ 1,650,000,000,000
- National debt: $14,271,000,000,000
- Recent budget cut: $ 38,500,000,000
Let's remove 8 zeros and pretend it's a household budget:
- Annual family income: $21,700
- Money the family spent: $38,200
- New debt on the credit card: $16,500
- Outstanding balance on the credit card: $142,710
- Total budget cuts: $385
author unknown
Monday, November 08, 2010
The Liberty Institute
"Liberty Institute was founded as Free Market Foundation in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization dedicated to protecting freedoms and strengthening families."
"Guided by principles that limit government and promote Judeo-Christian values, Liberty Institute was founded in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to protect freedoms and strengthen families by impacting the legislature, media, grassroots, and the courts with the truth."
"Specifically, Liberty Institute works to educate, advocate, and, when necessary, litigate for freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution including:
* Freedom of Speech
* Religious Freedom
* Parental rights
* Student's Rights
* Responsible and limited Government"
The Liberty Institute
"Guided by principles that limit government and promote Judeo-Christian values, Liberty Institute was founded in 1972 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to protect freedoms and strengthen families by impacting the legislature, media, grassroots, and the courts with the truth."
"Specifically, Liberty Institute works to educate, advocate, and, when necessary, litigate for freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution including:
* Freedom of Speech
* Religious Freedom
* Parental rights
* Student's Rights
* Responsible and limited Government"
The Liberty Institute
Sunday, July 18, 2010
God knows what He's doing.
I don't like Mr. Obama, but he is the President of my country. I disagree with pretty much everything he publicly states, but he is the authority over us.
"Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for {rulers} are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax {is due;} custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." ~ Romans 13:1-7
I look forward to his absence, but in the meantime, I need to remember him in my prayers.
"First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God. This kind of prayer is good, and it pleases God our Savior." ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-3
"Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for {rulers} are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax {is due;} custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." ~ Romans 13:1-7
I look forward to his absence, but in the meantime, I need to remember him in my prayers.
"First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God. This kind of prayer is good, and it pleases God our Savior." ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-3
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