So Long, Mexico
I thought I would be more disappointed and sad at leaving our home in Mexico. We had moved there to be able to live a comfortable life on short money after a stroke took both my wife and me from our jobs. And, living in Mexico was wonderful on several levels, including the reasonable cost of living. We found some very good friends (more family than friends), we totally lucked out in finding a very nice house to rent, and the climate, well the climate was not always the best, but there was no snow or ice to deal with.
About a year into our stay in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas I started to get “antsy”. It bordered on bored and I decided to involve myself in a course of study. I really searched my soul for an area that would interest me and, as if divinely inspired, I was directed to the ministry. Having been raised a Catholic I found it almost amusing that I might become a minister of Jesus the Nazarene. But that's another story. This journey of spiritual and emotional development took some strange turns and eventually led to my choosing an on-line seminary from which I could become ordained. But most importantly, I was occupied everyday and two years went by without incident. Carolyn was content watching TV and going to the movies once a month. We traveled to McAllen Texas about every three months to attend the VA clinic and shop for the few things we wanted that were not available in Mexico. These trips broke up the year and provided a pleasant distraction.
Life was good and the living was easy. Then, about a year ago, I became aware that the tension in town was becoming more tangible. There was nothing I could point to directly, but my friends seemed more on edge, there were more federal police around, army checkpoints along the highways were more and more intrusive. The drug violence that was usual along the border began to seep down closer to our town. As our discomfort level rose, I decided to plan our return to the States when I turned 62 and could get Social Security. Part of this process was looking into the job market. I answered an ad for a position in Victoria, Texas. We traveled to Victoria in the early spring for the interview. I didn't get the job, but we did like the town. So, Victoria was the destination.
The 4th of July is a holiday in the States, but in Mexico, this year, it was election day. The weeks leading up to the elections were filled with the usual champaign activity. I don't pretend to understand the politics of Mexico and worked very hard to keep a safe distance from the rallies and speeches. The candidate who was predicted to win the Governorship of Tamaulipas was a nice enough politician who was charismatic and well liked. Apparently not everyone was happy with his popularity, however. He and five of his aides and security detail were ambushed and killed not too far from our house.
That was it for us. All of a sudden things became uncomfortable. Restaurants were empty, No one moved around after dark. Heavily armed troops patrolled our city and helicopters flew overhead. We decided to move immediately. We went to Victoria, TX at the end of July, rented an apartment in a nice, older established complex and decided that August 20th was moving day. Upon returning to Mexico we told our Mexican family that we would be leaving. We sat down, looked around, and decided, almost on a whim, to pack and get out as soon as possible. We moved on August 9th.
I thought I would be more sad about leaving Mexico, but I am not sad at all. Don't get me wrong, I love our Mexican family. And I will miss them. But not Mexico. In fact, I am giddy at being back in the States. It seems that I have, for some time, been repressing feelings of regret and resentment. I'll have to deal with these. God bless America.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Saturday, April 24, 2010
This a response to an article in the Bangor Daily News continuing the "faith vs. truth" discussion.
When I am asked why I "chose" to be a Christian, I simply say it was ordained. Had I been brought up in Iraq or Egypt I might just as well have been ordained to be a Muslim. In India I probably would have been a Hindu. And if I was born today in the US I might easily be an agnostic, or even an atheist. Why? Because what be believe is determined by what we are taught. Faith is the result of believing that what we are taught is correct. Not necessarily factual and not always truthful, but that what we are taught is correct. A thousand years ago the circle of "teachers" available to a child was limited to family, maybe a few neighbors, and possibly a civil authority or a church leader. In many cultures the civil authority and the church leadership were the same. Many times the freedom to explore alternative beliefs and knowledge was considered disloyal and sometimes heretical. A hundred years ago the pool of available teachers expanded to include written documents, radio, films, and organized schools, mostly run by civil authority and whose teachings were dictated by committees and which followed strict Christian doctrines, even when they expressly denied they were Christian based. 50 years ago, when I was in school, I was influences by TV. No longer did the family, school, or church have the premier impact on my beliefs. Advertiser in New York influenced my choices in clothes, what I desired, and what I wanted to eat. What I said and how I said it mirrored what I saw on TV and in the movies. I was constantly assaulted with bits of information that were contradictions of what I was being taught by my family, my church, and in my school. And, "if it was on TV, it must be true".
Today, it is a constant source of discomfort for me that children have available to them a virtually unlimited supply of information from sources completely unheard of even twenty years ago. I applaud the information technology that makes this possible, but I am concerned that this information blitz is not filtered somehow, to weed out that information that is patently false. This raises the question,"who decides what is true and what is false?" One of my favorite TV shows right now is GLEE. When Brittany tells her friend that "dolphins are just gay sharks", I wonder how many kids will not be able to know that this is just false. Silly, you say? Well, how many people cowered in their homes or even committed suicide when Orwell's, "War of the Worlds" was broadcast over the radio just about 80 years ago?
How easy it is today for children to have so much information, much of it contradictory, that they find it easier to choose to believe in nothing. After all, when they can be taught by a potential role model that dolphins are gay sharks, what can be believed. And God help us all if our children are watching "South Park".
"Who filters this vast influx of information for our children?" The answer is, "we all must". Beginning with the parents, then expanding to our schools, and finally, to our mass media and the messages we send to the media executives by our spending habits. "What about church?:, you may ask. Church membership and participation is the direct result of the parenting provided to children. Faith in God is based on what our children believe. What they believe is totally dependent upon what they are taught. It is up to the parents to filter information and assist their children in sorting out what they are being taught into what is and what isn't to be believed. Yes, it's subjective and, yes, it's somewhat limiting, but it is a primary parental responsibility to train children in deductive reasoning and decision making. A few people believed it was possible that Martians were landing in New Jersey but millions didn't. A few people will believe that dolphins are gay sharks, but millions will think that Brittany is just dumb. A few children will grow up believing that God is a figment of delusional minds, but millions will have faith (because they have been taught to) that God is. What is important to remember, in my humble opinion, is that God smiles at our folly and all will be revealed in His good time. That's what I believe. Pray for peace.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
When I am asked why I "chose" to be a Christian, I simply say it was ordained. Had I been brought up in Iraq or Egypt I might just as well have been ordained to be a Muslim. In India I probably would have been a Hindu. And if I was born today in the US I might easily be an agnostic, or even an atheist. Why? Because what be believe is determined by what we are taught. Faith is the result of believing that what we are taught is correct. Not necessarily factual and not always truthful, but that what we are taught is correct. A thousand years ago the circle of "teachers" available to a child was limited to family, maybe a few neighbors, and possibly a civil authority or a church leader. In many cultures the civil authority and the church leadership were the same. Many times the freedom to explore alternative beliefs and knowledge was considered disloyal and sometimes heretical. A hundred years ago the pool of available teachers expanded to include written documents, radio, films, and organized schools, mostly run by civil authority and whose teachings were dictated by committees and which followed strict Christian doctrines, even when they expressly denied they were Christian based. 50 years ago, when I was in school, I was influences by TV. No longer did the family, school, or church have the premier impact on my beliefs. Advertiser in New York influenced my choices in clothes, what I desired, and what I wanted to eat. What I said and how I said it mirrored what I saw on TV and in the movies. I was constantly assaulted with bits of information that were contradictions of what I was being taught by my family, my church, and in my school. And, "if it was on TV, it must be true".
Today, it is a constant source of discomfort for me that children have available to them a virtually unlimited supply of information from sources completely unheard of even twenty years ago. I applaud the information technology that makes this possible, but I am concerned that this information blitz is not filtered somehow, to weed out that information that is patently false. This raises the question,"who decides what is true and what is false?" One of my favorite TV shows right now is GLEE. When Brittany tells her friend that "dolphins are just gay sharks", I wonder how many kids will not be able to know that this is just false. Silly, you say? Well, how many people cowered in their homes or even committed suicide when Orwell's, "War of the Worlds" was broadcast over the radio just about 80 years ago?
How easy it is today for children to have so much information, much of it contradictory, that they find it easier to choose to believe in nothing. After all, when they can be taught by a potential role model that dolphins are gay sharks, what can be believed. And God help us all if our children are watching "South Park".
"Who filters this vast influx of information for our children?" The answer is, "we all must". Beginning with the parents, then expanding to our schools, and finally, to our mass media and the messages we send to the media executives by our spending habits. "What about church?:, you may ask. Church membership and participation is the direct result of the parenting provided to children. Faith in God is based on what our children believe. What they believe is totally dependent upon what they are taught. It is up to the parents to filter information and assist their children in sorting out what they are being taught into what is and what isn't to be believed. Yes, it's subjective and, yes, it's somewhat limiting, but it is a primary parental responsibility to train children in deductive reasoning and decision making. A few people believed it was possible that Martians were landing in New Jersey but millions didn't. A few people will believe that dolphins are gay sharks, but millions will think that Brittany is just dumb. A few children will grow up believing that God is a figment of delusional minds, but millions will have faith (because they have been taught to) that God is. What is important to remember, in my humble opinion, is that God smiles at our folly and all will be revealed in His good time. That's what I believe. Pray for peace.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
I wept today, twice.
I watched a film called "Swing Vote" with Kevin Kostner. The plot was contrived and the content was predictable. Due to a malfunction in an election booth Bud needed to cast the final vote in a presidental election. I had seen the movie a couple of times before and watch it over again, hoping for an alternative ending. The plot line, or punch line, if you will, is that the President and his opponent come to court Bud for his vote. The rational charictor is his pre teen daughter, Molly. She serves as the conscience and is the smart one. Well, why did this make me weep, you may ask? Just this. The final scene in the film is Bud hosting a presidental debate in his home town with the President and his opponent ready to field questions. I weep every time at this point because the first question Bud asks is "if America is the richest country in the world, why is it that so many of us can't afford to live here"? I can't afford to live in America. After my wife had her stroke, I was put in a situation where I could'nt afford to continue to work. Her day care was expensive and neither my HMO or any public funded plan covered it. She didn't qualify for a nursing home, which may have been covered and I earned too much for public assistance for her care. I had to quit my job, allow our home to be foreclosed, left everythng we owned and we fled, literaly, to Mexico, where we could afford to live on SSI and my small VA compensation. Why is it that a disabled veteran and his physically challenged wife can't afford to live in their counrty?
I wept again this evening when the House of Representatives approved the Health Care Bill. Maybe, just maybe, we will be able to return home. That would be nice.
I watched a film called "Swing Vote" with Kevin Kostner. The plot was contrived and the content was predictable. Due to a malfunction in an election booth Bud needed to cast the final vote in a presidental election. I had seen the movie a couple of times before and watch it over again, hoping for an alternative ending. The plot line, or punch line, if you will, is that the President and his opponent come to court Bud for his vote. The rational charictor is his pre teen daughter, Molly. She serves as the conscience and is the smart one. Well, why did this make me weep, you may ask? Just this. The final scene in the film is Bud hosting a presidental debate in his home town with the President and his opponent ready to field questions. I weep every time at this point because the first question Bud asks is "if America is the richest country in the world, why is it that so many of us can't afford to live here"? I can't afford to live in America. After my wife had her stroke, I was put in a situation where I could'nt afford to continue to work. Her day care was expensive and neither my HMO or any public funded plan covered it. She didn't qualify for a nursing home, which may have been covered and I earned too much for public assistance for her care. I had to quit my job, allow our home to be foreclosed, left everythng we owned and we fled, literaly, to Mexico, where we could afford to live on SSI and my small VA compensation. Why is it that a disabled veteran and his physically challenged wife can't afford to live in their counrty?
I wept again this evening when the House of Representatives approved the Health Care Bill. Maybe, just maybe, we will be able to return home. That would be nice.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Second round of questions for the Outreach Pastor position
Good Morning, Pastor Mark. I hope this letter finds you well.
Let me say that I have enjoyed our discussion both as as a challenge to my thoughts and beliefs about my faith but also as an exercise in intellectual debate among friends. Yes it seems that we are of kindred spirit in most things concerning Jesus. And, I feel, the things where we differ are small and I'm sure we could agree to disagree without jeopardizing our effectiveness in spreading the Word.
Concerning the Old Testament, I did not effectively state my position. Yes the Old Testament is important and needs to be read, studied and understood. It puts things into context. Jesus was, after all, a Jew who lived the life of a Jew in Palestine. This meant living by the laws of God as interrupted by the Jewish leaders and implemented in secular life. He was renowned for His knowledge of the scriptures. He also rebelled against the Jewish leadership, and therefore Jewish law, when he advocated allowing the pagans and Gentiles into the temple to worship. Jesus' teachings on the Mount and in the Beatitudes is also an example of his contrary view of Old Testament lessons. So, it is true that an understanding of the contents of the Old Testament is necessary to fully understand the dynamics of Jesus' mission as the Messiah. To fully comprehend Jesus as God, however, we must accept that He rejected what had come to be the practice of using scripture as a way to oppress, reject and exclude the people of the time from God's love and promise.
I believe that God works in mysterious ways. I also firmly believe that nothing happens in God's world by accident. God doesn't make mistakes. So, in that context, I offer that He is revealing new and controversial material for us to ponder, as we are able to deal with it. Does this new material connote a new testament? No. Does it mean that what we have learned thus far is invalid? No. All it does do is to provide us with a new chance to explore our faith based on some new knowledge. Is all of this new information true and accurate? No. Is it inspired by God? Well, I don't know, do I. Until that is revealed to me I can only assume that God put it out there for a reason. Is this new information the products of some who would like to have me deny God and destroy my faith? Maybe. But I would be remiss if I didn't read it. So often I see people who have some information and determine that that is all they need to know. It's sad, really, to see people so entrenched in a flawed system and so unwilling to seek a remedy in new awareness. (I'm afraid my early Catholic experiences are surfacing)
Because I read everything that I can find about Jesus, His life, and His teachings, I can better form my beliefs about Him and His divinity. Knowledge is never bad or wrong. And the search for new knowledge is always helpful. The works of Prophet, Hassain & Levi, Thiering, and Butler-Bass contradict each other on every page. Each are committed to their research and beliefs. And each offers an opportunity for me to fine tune my faith by challenging what I know to be true. So what if we determine that Jesus was in fact an Essene Jew, dedicated to a communistic lifestyle, popular in His day. So what if it is proven that Jesus traveled to the East and studied and taught before His mission in Palestine. It doesn't matter. None of that takes away one iota of truth of His ministry documented in the New Testament.
That brings up the concept of the devil. There is much written about the devil, the ultimate antagonist in the drama of the world. Did he exist? Does he exist today? Or has his usefulness diminished since the arrival of Jesus. If we need a face of evil to make sense of some of the events in our world then the devil serves that purpose. It's easier to point to the devil as the cause of the tragedy in Haiti than to believe that God allows such things. But, I can't have it both ways. If I believe, as I do, that God is in total control of the world and nothing happens in God's world by accident, then I must accept that God is in charge of what I identify as evil, not the devil. And it is not my place to try to comprehend God's purpose. To paraphrase another Big Book I read and rely upon, “acceptance is the key”.
SIN: Sin is a very personal issue between God and me. God is the final judge concerning sin. I believe that no one other than the individual can determine if a certain behavior is sinful. There are some pretty strong argument against certain behaviors and thoughts. And some things are just inherently wrong; sinful in every case. We humans have a seemingly unlimited ability to rationalize our actions. We can, and do, justify almost everything to make us less guilty of sin.
Killing another human being for any reason is a sin. IT'S ONE OF THE BIG 10. However, I have killed people and felt justified in doing so, at the time. It was war, after all, and by definition, warfare involves killing people. Did I sin? Of course, no question about it. Was I wrong in committing those sins? Yes. Was it necessary, at the time, to do so? Well, that's something I have lived with for 40 odd years and will do for the remainder of my life. I believe that I have been absolved of those sins. However, I'll find out later. I wait to see what weight God places on my behavior for when I meet Him.
Now for the news that is difficult for me to share. Although I would relish the chance to come to PEI and work with the immigrants, I can't. My wife is completely against moving to another country. She is adamant that the next move she makes will be back to the US, close to family. It could seem I have been selfish in using this as an opportunity to express my faith, I assure you that I did not intend this to be the case. But I will not deny that I have thoroughly enjoyed our dialogue. Best of luck finding the right person to fill this position. I wish it could be me. But, as always, my wife's needs come before mine.
My God bless you and guide you in your search. Bob
Let me say that I have enjoyed our discussion both as as a challenge to my thoughts and beliefs about my faith but also as an exercise in intellectual debate among friends. Yes it seems that we are of kindred spirit in most things concerning Jesus. And, I feel, the things where we differ are small and I'm sure we could agree to disagree without jeopardizing our effectiveness in spreading the Word.
Concerning the Old Testament, I did not effectively state my position. Yes the Old Testament is important and needs to be read, studied and understood. It puts things into context. Jesus was, after all, a Jew who lived the life of a Jew in Palestine. This meant living by the laws of God as interrupted by the Jewish leaders and implemented in secular life. He was renowned for His knowledge of the scriptures. He also rebelled against the Jewish leadership, and therefore Jewish law, when he advocated allowing the pagans and Gentiles into the temple to worship. Jesus' teachings on the Mount and in the Beatitudes is also an example of his contrary view of Old Testament lessons. So, it is true that an understanding of the contents of the Old Testament is necessary to fully understand the dynamics of Jesus' mission as the Messiah. To fully comprehend Jesus as God, however, we must accept that He rejected what had come to be the practice of using scripture as a way to oppress, reject and exclude the people of the time from God's love and promise.
I believe that God works in mysterious ways. I also firmly believe that nothing happens in God's world by accident. God doesn't make mistakes. So, in that context, I offer that He is revealing new and controversial material for us to ponder, as we are able to deal with it. Does this new material connote a new testament? No. Does it mean that what we have learned thus far is invalid? No. All it does do is to provide us with a new chance to explore our faith based on some new knowledge. Is all of this new information true and accurate? No. Is it inspired by God? Well, I don't know, do I. Until that is revealed to me I can only assume that God put it out there for a reason. Is this new information the products of some who would like to have me deny God and destroy my faith? Maybe. But I would be remiss if I didn't read it. So often I see people who have some information and determine that that is all they need to know. It's sad, really, to see people so entrenched in a flawed system and so unwilling to seek a remedy in new awareness. (I'm afraid my early Catholic experiences are surfacing)
Because I read everything that I can find about Jesus, His life, and His teachings, I can better form my beliefs about Him and His divinity. Knowledge is never bad or wrong. And the search for new knowledge is always helpful. The works of Prophet, Hassain & Levi, Thiering, and Butler-Bass contradict each other on every page. Each are committed to their research and beliefs. And each offers an opportunity for me to fine tune my faith by challenging what I know to be true. So what if we determine that Jesus was in fact an Essene Jew, dedicated to a communistic lifestyle, popular in His day. So what if it is proven that Jesus traveled to the East and studied and taught before His mission in Palestine. It doesn't matter. None of that takes away one iota of truth of His ministry documented in the New Testament.
That brings up the concept of the devil. There is much written about the devil, the ultimate antagonist in the drama of the world. Did he exist? Does he exist today? Or has his usefulness diminished since the arrival of Jesus. If we need a face of evil to make sense of some of the events in our world then the devil serves that purpose. It's easier to point to the devil as the cause of the tragedy in Haiti than to believe that God allows such things. But, I can't have it both ways. If I believe, as I do, that God is in total control of the world and nothing happens in God's world by accident, then I must accept that God is in charge of what I identify as evil, not the devil. And it is not my place to try to comprehend God's purpose. To paraphrase another Big Book I read and rely upon, “acceptance is the key”.
SIN: Sin is a very personal issue between God and me. God is the final judge concerning sin. I believe that no one other than the individual can determine if a certain behavior is sinful. There are some pretty strong argument against certain behaviors and thoughts. And some things are just inherently wrong; sinful in every case. We humans have a seemingly unlimited ability to rationalize our actions. We can, and do, justify almost everything to make us less guilty of sin.
Killing another human being for any reason is a sin. IT'S ONE OF THE BIG 10. However, I have killed people and felt justified in doing so, at the time. It was war, after all, and by definition, warfare involves killing people. Did I sin? Of course, no question about it. Was I wrong in committing those sins? Yes. Was it necessary, at the time, to do so? Well, that's something I have lived with for 40 odd years and will do for the remainder of my life. I believe that I have been absolved of those sins. However, I'll find out later. I wait to see what weight God places on my behavior for when I meet Him.
Now for the news that is difficult for me to share. Although I would relish the chance to come to PEI and work with the immigrants, I can't. My wife is completely against moving to another country. She is adamant that the next move she makes will be back to the US, close to family. It could seem I have been selfish in using this as an opportunity to express my faith, I assure you that I did not intend this to be the case. But I will not deny that I have thoroughly enjoyed our dialogue. Best of luck finding the right person to fill this position. I wish it could be me. But, as always, my wife's needs come before mine.
My God bless you and guide you in your search. Bob
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Responses to concerns about my Christianity
What follows is a response to some concerns a Pastor has while considering me for an unpaid missionary position in Canada. I do not have permission to publish his questions so I won't. But they are directly related to essays and postings on this blog.
First, and most important, is the clear understanding that as an academic I separate "belief" and "faith", just as I distinguish between “truth” and “fact”.
What I, and you, and everyone else "believe" is based on our knowledge, experiences, and how we interpret all of this information. Many of us believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as the three persons in one God. We further believe that Jesus the Nazarene is the Messiah foretold in the Old Testament. Many others believe something else, based on what they have learned and experienced. This does not make their beliefs "wrong". I believe that the path to redemption is through Jesus. And I believe that I have an obligation to bring this message to others. And the way to bring others to Jesus is to provide them with the Word and to have them experience the love and acceptance of our Christian community. Beliefs, therefore are intellectual, residing in the head, so to speak.
Faith, on the other hand, is spiritual, based in the heart, if you will. Faith can be shared but never taught. Faith must be felt deep in the core of one's being. Faith transcends knowledge, experiences, and beliefs. Faith is sometimes associated with trust. But it's more. Trust is of the world; I trust that the bank will give me back my money when I ask. Faith is that God will provide me with everything I need, even if what He provides is pain and suffering. Faith allows me to go on in the face of danger. I'm reminded of one time in Viet Nam when everything I knew and believed was useless and only my faith carried me through. Close combat does that.
So, yes, what we believe is true, at that time, based on our available information, our knowledge, and our experiences. I can't think of a more destructive way to gather people to Jesus than to tell them that everything they know about God is wrong. They must be offered Jesus at a personal level, first by experiencing Jesus' love through our actions and then through knowledge of his teachings in the New Testament. Because I believe that Jesus is the redeemer, I have an obligation to teach that to others. More importantly, I have the task of “showing” Jesus in my daily life choices. And I have faith that through my efforts on behalf of Jesus, more people will be saved. Yes, I believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. However, I also believe that the Word has been mistranslated, misinterpreted, and therefore, misunderstood for thousands of years. Other than as a genealogical record and a collections of teaching stories, the Old Testament is of little relevance to Christians today. Jesus brought with Him a New Testament designed to replace the Old and offer a new way of living. Gone is the hateful, vengeful God and here now is the God of love and salvation. Gone are the days when only the elite got to worship in the temple and here are the days when everyone is welcome. We no longer need to fear God because we are taught that God is our father. We are encouraged to have a close personal relationship with God, through Jesus, and that God loves us.
I have absolutely no trust that what a pagan Roman Emperor decided 1700 years ago are the only writings to be considered divine after multiple committees debated for over a year and settled on what can only be described as the least common denominator of doctrines.
I look at my three study bibles and see three translations, each saying the same thing, differently. And each interpreting what is said in it's own way, based on what the authors want me to believe. The truth is no one really knows what the original gospels said. We are reasonably sure that what is included in the New Testament is only a small part of the available writings about Jesus and his ministry. And, God in His infinite wisdom is bringing some of these other writings to light in His good time. What these writings say and who wrote them is speculative, but must be explored.
In the meanwhile I have faith that the word of God is revealed to me exactly as God wants me to hear it.
Coincidently, I am currently reading THE LOST YEARS OF JESUS, Documentary Evidence of Jesus' 17 Year Journey To the East. I believe that each of us has an obligation to read everything available about Jesus and his life, no matter how incredible they seem. WHY? Because it is these writings that our detractors will use to discredit our faith. We must know what these writings say in order to be a competent witness of Jesus and his teachings. Knowledge is never a bad thing. However we must place that knowledge in context. I don't have a problem with someone providing evidence that Jesus traveled and studied in the East as an adolescent and young adult. I can see similarities in the teachings of Jesus and those of the Buddha. The more I learn about what others say about Jesus in the East, the more convinced I am that they have it backwards. Jesus was more a teacher in the East than a student. I don't have a problem with others believing that Jesus' message is based his teachings on Eastern philosophies. I don't take issue here because I believe that Jesus influenced Eastern thought and not the other way around. I don't have a problem wondering, as some have suggested, if God sent his Son to earth more than once. Perhaps the Buddha was, in fact, an earlier presence of God on Earth. No one really knows for sure. And who cares? It doesn't, in any way, change what we know of Jesus in Palestine, his life there, and his teachings and commandments to us, as his disciples. It doesn't shake my faith that Jesus is God, come to us in the form of a man to bring us to salvation.
Yes, we believe what we believe and have faith in God. However, we can never know the intent of God. But we must consider everything and put it into context. Someday, something may come to light that puts everything I believe in doubt. That is the day I look forward to. That is the day I can put everything I have learned to the test. On that day, what I believe will be challenged. But my faith will not be. My faith in God is not dependent upon anything worldly.
You are correct to question my statements about the absurdity of requiring others to have the same beliefs as do I. I think I have addressed this in a previous paragraph. May I simply say that I believe Jesus when he says, with authority, “I am the Way”.
At the risk of sounding trite, I was raised a Catholic, probably the least Christian of Christian religions. And, as a result, I am critical of what passes for Christianity today. It is my observation that most people who claim to be Christians aren't, that they are delinquent in their attempts to demonstrate a life based on the teachings and commandments of Jesus.
Jesus commands us to care for one another. That's pretty much it. Feed the hungry, treat the sick, shelter the homeless, comfort the weary and protect the children. And do all of this in our own neighborhoods. Jesus sent His disciples out to the people. He did not require the people to come to him. He never suggests that there are exceptions. He doesn't address any “why” questions about someone needing assistance. He doesn't say help only those you feel deserve it. He simply says to help those in need. To me that means helping those who's life choices I find repulsive, dangerous, and/or politically incorrect. And Jesus never said, nor do I believe He condones, withholding our assistance from anyone who rejects Him.
I also have contempt for any organized church that excludes others for any reason. I take issue with church buildings being empty 95% of the time. I question the practice of paid clergy. (I understand the need for it, but I sometimes wonder if salary and benefits gets in the way of a pastor confronting the members when required.) And I find it offensive to see mega churches, “feel good” auditoriums, which seem designed to be money generators and houses of glory to man, being promoted as the 'new Christianity'.
I hope these responses answer your questions. I have, in good faith, been as forthright as possible. My beliefs and faith are “out there” for anyone to read and scrutinize. And I will be posting these clarifications on the blog this afternoon, again for everyone to see.
Now I would like to learn more about you, your church, and it's mission. Do you have a web site? A published Statement of Faith for your ministry? Does your church welcome everyone, without exception. Do you, Mark, measure up to my expectation of a Christian as I have outlined here today? It is you, after all, that is asking for help.
I look forward to your response. Peace and love through Jesus.
First, and most important, is the clear understanding that as an academic I separate "belief" and "faith", just as I distinguish between “truth” and “fact”.
What I, and you, and everyone else "believe" is based on our knowledge, experiences, and how we interpret all of this information. Many of us believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as the three persons in one God. We further believe that Jesus the Nazarene is the Messiah foretold in the Old Testament. Many others believe something else, based on what they have learned and experienced. This does not make their beliefs "wrong". I believe that the path to redemption is through Jesus. And I believe that I have an obligation to bring this message to others. And the way to bring others to Jesus is to provide them with the Word and to have them experience the love and acceptance of our Christian community. Beliefs, therefore are intellectual, residing in the head, so to speak.
Faith, on the other hand, is spiritual, based in the heart, if you will. Faith can be shared but never taught. Faith must be felt deep in the core of one's being. Faith transcends knowledge, experiences, and beliefs. Faith is sometimes associated with trust. But it's more. Trust is of the world; I trust that the bank will give me back my money when I ask. Faith is that God will provide me with everything I need, even if what He provides is pain and suffering. Faith allows me to go on in the face of danger. I'm reminded of one time in Viet Nam when everything I knew and believed was useless and only my faith carried me through. Close combat does that.
So, yes, what we believe is true, at that time, based on our available information, our knowledge, and our experiences. I can't think of a more destructive way to gather people to Jesus than to tell them that everything they know about God is wrong. They must be offered Jesus at a personal level, first by experiencing Jesus' love through our actions and then through knowledge of his teachings in the New Testament. Because I believe that Jesus is the redeemer, I have an obligation to teach that to others. More importantly, I have the task of “showing” Jesus in my daily life choices. And I have faith that through my efforts on behalf of Jesus, more people will be saved. Yes, I believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. However, I also believe that the Word has been mistranslated, misinterpreted, and therefore, misunderstood for thousands of years. Other than as a genealogical record and a collections of teaching stories, the Old Testament is of little relevance to Christians today. Jesus brought with Him a New Testament designed to replace the Old and offer a new way of living. Gone is the hateful, vengeful God and here now is the God of love and salvation. Gone are the days when only the elite got to worship in the temple and here are the days when everyone is welcome. We no longer need to fear God because we are taught that God is our father. We are encouraged to have a close personal relationship with God, through Jesus, and that God loves us.
I have absolutely no trust that what a pagan Roman Emperor decided 1700 years ago are the only writings to be considered divine after multiple committees debated for over a year and settled on what can only be described as the least common denominator of doctrines.
I look at my three study bibles and see three translations, each saying the same thing, differently. And each interpreting what is said in it's own way, based on what the authors want me to believe. The truth is no one really knows what the original gospels said. We are reasonably sure that what is included in the New Testament is only a small part of the available writings about Jesus and his ministry. And, God in His infinite wisdom is bringing some of these other writings to light in His good time. What these writings say and who wrote them is speculative, but must be explored.
In the meanwhile I have faith that the word of God is revealed to me exactly as God wants me to hear it.
Coincidently, I am currently reading THE LOST YEARS OF JESUS, Documentary Evidence of Jesus' 17 Year Journey To the East. I believe that each of us has an obligation to read everything available about Jesus and his life, no matter how incredible they seem. WHY? Because it is these writings that our detractors will use to discredit our faith. We must know what these writings say in order to be a competent witness of Jesus and his teachings. Knowledge is never a bad thing. However we must place that knowledge in context. I don't have a problem with someone providing evidence that Jesus traveled and studied in the East as an adolescent and young adult. I can see similarities in the teachings of Jesus and those of the Buddha. The more I learn about what others say about Jesus in the East, the more convinced I am that they have it backwards. Jesus was more a teacher in the East than a student. I don't have a problem with others believing that Jesus' message is based his teachings on Eastern philosophies. I don't take issue here because I believe that Jesus influenced Eastern thought and not the other way around. I don't have a problem wondering, as some have suggested, if God sent his Son to earth more than once. Perhaps the Buddha was, in fact, an earlier presence of God on Earth. No one really knows for sure. And who cares? It doesn't, in any way, change what we know of Jesus in Palestine, his life there, and his teachings and commandments to us, as his disciples. It doesn't shake my faith that Jesus is God, come to us in the form of a man to bring us to salvation.
Yes, we believe what we believe and have faith in God. However, we can never know the intent of God. But we must consider everything and put it into context. Someday, something may come to light that puts everything I believe in doubt. That is the day I look forward to. That is the day I can put everything I have learned to the test. On that day, what I believe will be challenged. But my faith will not be. My faith in God is not dependent upon anything worldly.
You are correct to question my statements about the absurdity of requiring others to have the same beliefs as do I. I think I have addressed this in a previous paragraph. May I simply say that I believe Jesus when he says, with authority, “I am the Way”.
At the risk of sounding trite, I was raised a Catholic, probably the least Christian of Christian religions. And, as a result, I am critical of what passes for Christianity today. It is my observation that most people who claim to be Christians aren't, that they are delinquent in their attempts to demonstrate a life based on the teachings and commandments of Jesus.
Jesus commands us to care for one another. That's pretty much it. Feed the hungry, treat the sick, shelter the homeless, comfort the weary and protect the children. And do all of this in our own neighborhoods. Jesus sent His disciples out to the people. He did not require the people to come to him. He never suggests that there are exceptions. He doesn't address any “why” questions about someone needing assistance. He doesn't say help only those you feel deserve it. He simply says to help those in need. To me that means helping those who's life choices I find repulsive, dangerous, and/or politically incorrect. And Jesus never said, nor do I believe He condones, withholding our assistance from anyone who rejects Him.
I also have contempt for any organized church that excludes others for any reason. I take issue with church buildings being empty 95% of the time. I question the practice of paid clergy. (I understand the need for it, but I sometimes wonder if salary and benefits gets in the way of a pastor confronting the members when required.) And I find it offensive to see mega churches, “feel good” auditoriums, which seem designed to be money generators and houses of glory to man, being promoted as the 'new Christianity'.
I hope these responses answer your questions. I have, in good faith, been as forthright as possible. My beliefs and faith are “out there” for anyone to read and scrutinize. And I will be posting these clarifications on the blog this afternoon, again for everyone to see.
Now I would like to learn more about you, your church, and it's mission. Do you have a web site? A published Statement of Faith for your ministry? Does your church welcome everyone, without exception. Do you, Mark, measure up to my expectation of a Christian as I have outlined here today? It is you, after all, that is asking for help.
I look forward to your response. Peace and love through Jesus.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Well I never...!
Something occurred tonight on the CBS Evening News with Katie Curic. Between the “war” this and “Tiger” that was a story that I'll bet you never thought you would see in a million years.
“Mexico's public medical/health care system is becoming overburdened by immigrants, U.S. Immigrants.”
That's right, Mexico is feeling the pinch from U.S. And Canadian immigrants who have moved to Mexico to retire. As legal immigrants, we are eligible for and many do partake of this excellent benefit.
As a “rentista” living in Mexico for the past two years and who has had the IMSS health care scheme since I moved here, I can tell you that it is far superior to the HMO plan provided by my former employer and equal if not a little better than the VA health care I am eligible for as a disabled vet. The level of care is no better or worse than that available from the HMO plan, but there are no co-pays. I see the same doctor each visit. I get my prescriptions on the spot for free, and I am referred to a specialist when needed. All included in the subscription cost of about $500.00US each year. Eye care, dental, pharmacy, and any and all special needs items are covered.
The BIG difference is one that many Americans would find troubling. In Mexico we get the medical care we need when we need it. North of the border it has been my experience that Americans feel they have the right to what they want when they want it.
In Mexico the IMSS system will and does meet the needs of the vast majority of the residents. That's NEEDS. There is a high priority placed on prevention and they vigorously promote wellness for everyone. But everyone in the plan gets excellent care from well qualified professionals, many of whom studies and trained in the US of Europe. A few even speak some English, but don't plan on it. BUT, interestingly enough, my doctor at the VA clinic barely speaks English and he was trained in Pakistan.
Above I emphasized NEEDS. If I want something that is not covered or want something sooner than the IMSS system can provide it (a special procedure or a particular medication) I always have the choice to go to a private doctor, or even my clinic doctor at her private practice office and pay for it out of pocket. This is widely available and used by both Mexicans and Americans. Even then the costs for the entire procedure is little more than the co-pay at my former HMO.
Here is another factor that may leave some Americans a little vexed.
When you sign up for the plan you are given a booklet that is your passport to services. Within the pages of this booklet are listed all of the routine preventive care procedures, laboratory tests, dental exams and procedures and other health related tests and procedures for which you are eligible. There are about a dozen different booklets. WHY? Because the booklets are complied for different genders and age groups. That's right, some stuff that's in the booklet of a twenty year old is not in my booklet and vise versa. There is stuff in my booklet that is not in my wife's booklet and vice versa. And, when I turned 61 my booklet changed. The bottom line is that the Mexican IMSS administration has decided, after years of data collection, what goes into each booklet. Some may call this selective care based on age or gender, and it is. At my age, I would never be placed on a list for any type of transplant and when I need dentures I will have to buy them. On the other hand, a twenty year old does not need nor will receive a prostate exam or calcium supplements. By the way, everyone is considered an organ donor unless they specify they do not want to be included. There's an urban legend that those who opt out of the donor program do not get transplants. I like to think otherwise, but who knows?
Yes there are sometimes delays in seeing a doctor without an appointment. And, yes, occasionally the prescribed medicines are not available that day or even the next. I feel quite at home in the IMSS hospital. I think because I worked in a Navy hospital in the 60's and a VA hospital in the '70's. In our small city the IMSS hospital is older and appears to have been organized by committee. Having been a Corpsman in the Navy and an LPN in civilian life, I can attest to the fact that the equipment is neither outdated nor state of the art, with certain exceptions. My wife had an ultrasound the other day and the doctor used a brand new laptop style portable sonargram instrument. MRI and cancer related radiography technology is top drawer. The cardiology clinic is as good as the ones in general hospitals in the States. In the lab, schedules are a 'cattle call'; dozens of people scheduled for the same time and a line forms about a half hour before. Vacutainer technology is reserved for emergencies. Blood is drawn with a syringe and placed in test tubes. Just like we did 50 years ago. This is perfectly OK, but some Americans may see this as backwards. In Mexico it's a cost control issue. X-ray equipment is state of the art and strictly monitored by factory trained technicians.
So, without overstating, or more so, health care in Mexico is professional, inexpensive, and up to date. All the more reason to consider retiring to Mexico. And if you are considering retiring to Mexico, you may want to read my ebook RETIRE TO MEXICO-20 Questions You Need To Answer, available at www.ebookmall.com
Something occurred tonight on the CBS Evening News with Katie Curic. Between the “war” this and “Tiger” that was a story that I'll bet you never thought you would see in a million years.
“Mexico's public medical/health care system is becoming overburdened by immigrants, U.S. Immigrants.”
That's right, Mexico is feeling the pinch from U.S. And Canadian immigrants who have moved to Mexico to retire. As legal immigrants, we are eligible for and many do partake of this excellent benefit.
As a “rentista” living in Mexico for the past two years and who has had the IMSS health care scheme since I moved here, I can tell you that it is far superior to the HMO plan provided by my former employer and equal if not a little better than the VA health care I am eligible for as a disabled vet. The level of care is no better or worse than that available from the HMO plan, but there are no co-pays. I see the same doctor each visit. I get my prescriptions on the spot for free, and I am referred to a specialist when needed. All included in the subscription cost of about $500.00US each year. Eye care, dental, pharmacy, and any and all special needs items are covered.
The BIG difference is one that many Americans would find troubling. In Mexico we get the medical care we need when we need it. North of the border it has been my experience that Americans feel they have the right to what they want when they want it.
In Mexico the IMSS system will and does meet the needs of the vast majority of the residents. That's NEEDS. There is a high priority placed on prevention and they vigorously promote wellness for everyone. But everyone in the plan gets excellent care from well qualified professionals, many of whom studies and trained in the US of Europe. A few even speak some English, but don't plan on it. BUT, interestingly enough, my doctor at the VA clinic barely speaks English and he was trained in Pakistan.
Above I emphasized NEEDS. If I want something that is not covered or want something sooner than the IMSS system can provide it (a special procedure or a particular medication) I always have the choice to go to a private doctor, or even my clinic doctor at her private practice office and pay for it out of pocket. This is widely available and used by both Mexicans and Americans. Even then the costs for the entire procedure is little more than the co-pay at my former HMO.
Here is another factor that may leave some Americans a little vexed.
When you sign up for the plan you are given a booklet that is your passport to services. Within the pages of this booklet are listed all of the routine preventive care procedures, laboratory tests, dental exams and procedures and other health related tests and procedures for which you are eligible. There are about a dozen different booklets. WHY? Because the booklets are complied for different genders and age groups. That's right, some stuff that's in the booklet of a twenty year old is not in my booklet and vise versa. There is stuff in my booklet that is not in my wife's booklet and vice versa. And, when I turned 61 my booklet changed. The bottom line is that the Mexican IMSS administration has decided, after years of data collection, what goes into each booklet. Some may call this selective care based on age or gender, and it is. At my age, I would never be placed on a list for any type of transplant and when I need dentures I will have to buy them. On the other hand, a twenty year old does not need nor will receive a prostate exam or calcium supplements. By the way, everyone is considered an organ donor unless they specify they do not want to be included. There's an urban legend that those who opt out of the donor program do not get transplants. I like to think otherwise, but who knows?
Yes there are sometimes delays in seeing a doctor without an appointment. And, yes, occasionally the prescribed medicines are not available that day or even the next. I feel quite at home in the IMSS hospital. I think because I worked in a Navy hospital in the 60's and a VA hospital in the '70's. In our small city the IMSS hospital is older and appears to have been organized by committee. Having been a Corpsman in the Navy and an LPN in civilian life, I can attest to the fact that the equipment is neither outdated nor state of the art, with certain exceptions. My wife had an ultrasound the other day and the doctor used a brand new laptop style portable sonargram instrument. MRI and cancer related radiography technology is top drawer. The cardiology clinic is as good as the ones in general hospitals in the States. In the lab, schedules are a 'cattle call'; dozens of people scheduled for the same time and a line forms about a half hour before. Vacutainer technology is reserved for emergencies. Blood is drawn with a syringe and placed in test tubes. Just like we did 50 years ago. This is perfectly OK, but some Americans may see this as backwards. In Mexico it's a cost control issue. X-ray equipment is state of the art and strictly monitored by factory trained technicians.
So, without overstating, or more so, health care in Mexico is professional, inexpensive, and up to date. All the more reason to consider retiring to Mexico. And if you are considering retiring to Mexico, you may want to read my ebook RETIRE TO MEXICO-20 Questions You Need To Answer, available at www.ebookmall.com
Thursday, November 26, 2009
NEWS FROM THE WHINERY
Boy, it's hard to be thankful this year. The economy is in the crapper. The weather is changing for the worse. And, most of all, I'm 3000 miles from my Mom and Dad.
I don't know why this year is any different than the other forty or so Thanksgivings I've been away from my parents home. It just is, somehow.
I think one of the reasons is that I've decided to move back to Maine next year and I'm subconsciously counting the days. I had made this decision earlier this fall after a 'too close for comfort' car accident in San Antonio. This brought into perspective just how vulnerable we were. I have, in my cocky, self centered way, been living under the illusion that I could handle anything that came up. I had done all of the research, make the proper arrangements, and covered all of my bases before and during our sojourn to Mexico. All of my planning was for the care of my wife. Medical care, housing, domestic help, creature comforts, these things I planned for and provided with some success. What I so blindly avoided was the possibility that something could happen to me. I didn't plan for an unthinkable event that would leave me unable to continue being the full time care giver and protector of the person who relies on me for everything.
Another thing that makes me more melancholy this season than in others is the reality that, at 85 years old, my parents have only a few more seasons for me to be with them. It seems strange that I so easily postponed, canceled, ignored, or rationalized away so may holidays during the past few dozen years. And now, seemingly all of a sudden, I need desperately to be with them. I think I'm just lonely. It is discouraging, sometimes, to live in a community where I am the outsider, and knowing that no matter what I do or for how long I live here, I will always be the outsider. The gringo with the exorbitant (by Mexican standards) income without needing to labor. The hombre who doesn't speak Spanish but expects everyone to understand him. How pitiful I sound.
I just realized how selfish I seem, pathetic really. Me, me, me. Well I guess in an essay intended as an expression of feelings the focal point should be the author.
On an up note, we are hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for the people here in Mexico who have become our friends. Our neighbor and landlady and her live-in “friend” will be here. They spent all afternoon taking over the cleaning of our furniture and hanging new flower baskets outside. Also attending is our housekeeper and her two teenage daughters as well as the boyfriend of one of them. This is the group I use to celebrate my milestones. They joined us for my latest birthday and when we went out to a restaurant with our friend, Brian, who came from England for a visit. Yep, that's correct. Two times in two years. (sounding pitiful, again)
Largely because of television, the people here in Mexico know of and understand, at a rudimentary level, what Thanksgiving Day is and what it is meant to celebrate. They see President Obama pardoning a turkey and smile without really knowing the symbolism. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is watched with the same anticipation of Santa's arrival as in the States. The children at the market who want to practice speaking the English they are required to learn tell me how George Washington saved the Indians from the British and that is the true meaning of Thanksgiving. I want to correct them but their story is more interesting than the one I learned when I was their age.
So, later I will roast the Butterball I bought in Texas, candy the carrots with just a hint of chilies , mash up the sweet potatoes with some of the maple syrup we took off the table at the Cracker Barrel restaurant last summer in Fort Worth, and prepare the Pepperidge Farms stuffing mix according to package directions. I'll stuff the celery stalks with cream cheese and olives, plate the pickles and cranberry jelly, and warm the store bought pumpkin pie while we eat. Carolyn and I will know the symbolism of these dishes. And I'll beam as I offer the Thanksgiving blessing for the first time as a minister of God.
And, I'll smile to myself in the awareness that I have so much to be thankful for that I am ashamed for whining so in this essay.
May the blessing of Jesus the Nazarene be upon you and yours today, tomorrow and all of the tomorrows to come. Happy Thanksgiving.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Boy, it's hard to be thankful this year. The economy is in the crapper. The weather is changing for the worse. And, most of all, I'm 3000 miles from my Mom and Dad.
I don't know why this year is any different than the other forty or so Thanksgivings I've been away from my parents home. It just is, somehow.
I think one of the reasons is that I've decided to move back to Maine next year and I'm subconsciously counting the days. I had made this decision earlier this fall after a 'too close for comfort' car accident in San Antonio. This brought into perspective just how vulnerable we were. I have, in my cocky, self centered way, been living under the illusion that I could handle anything that came up. I had done all of the research, make the proper arrangements, and covered all of my bases before and during our sojourn to Mexico. All of my planning was for the care of my wife. Medical care, housing, domestic help, creature comforts, these things I planned for and provided with some success. What I so blindly avoided was the possibility that something could happen to me. I didn't plan for an unthinkable event that would leave me unable to continue being the full time care giver and protector of the person who relies on me for everything.
Another thing that makes me more melancholy this season than in others is the reality that, at 85 years old, my parents have only a few more seasons for me to be with them. It seems strange that I so easily postponed, canceled, ignored, or rationalized away so may holidays during the past few dozen years. And now, seemingly all of a sudden, I need desperately to be with them. I think I'm just lonely. It is discouraging, sometimes, to live in a community where I am the outsider, and knowing that no matter what I do or for how long I live here, I will always be the outsider. The gringo with the exorbitant (by Mexican standards) income without needing to labor. The hombre who doesn't speak Spanish but expects everyone to understand him. How pitiful I sound.
I just realized how selfish I seem, pathetic really. Me, me, me. Well I guess in an essay intended as an expression of feelings the focal point should be the author.
On an up note, we are hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for the people here in Mexico who have become our friends. Our neighbor and landlady and her live-in “friend” will be here. They spent all afternoon taking over the cleaning of our furniture and hanging new flower baskets outside. Also attending is our housekeeper and her two teenage daughters as well as the boyfriend of one of them. This is the group I use to celebrate my milestones. They joined us for my latest birthday and when we went out to a restaurant with our friend, Brian, who came from England for a visit. Yep, that's correct. Two times in two years. (sounding pitiful, again)
Largely because of television, the people here in Mexico know of and understand, at a rudimentary level, what Thanksgiving Day is and what it is meant to celebrate. They see President Obama pardoning a turkey and smile without really knowing the symbolism. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is watched with the same anticipation of Santa's arrival as in the States. The children at the market who want to practice speaking the English they are required to learn tell me how George Washington saved the Indians from the British and that is the true meaning of Thanksgiving. I want to correct them but their story is more interesting than the one I learned when I was their age.
So, later I will roast the Butterball I bought in Texas, candy the carrots with just a hint of chilies , mash up the sweet potatoes with some of the maple syrup we took off the table at the Cracker Barrel restaurant last summer in Fort Worth, and prepare the Pepperidge Farms stuffing mix according to package directions. I'll stuff the celery stalks with cream cheese and olives, plate the pickles and cranberry jelly, and warm the store bought pumpkin pie while we eat. Carolyn and I will know the symbolism of these dishes. And I'll beam as I offer the Thanksgiving blessing for the first time as a minister of God.
And, I'll smile to myself in the awareness that I have so much to be thankful for that I am ashamed for whining so in this essay.
May the blessing of Jesus the Nazarene be upon you and yours today, tomorrow and all of the tomorrows to come. Happy Thanksgiving.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Monday, November 16, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
PRAY FOR AMERICA
Nothing, absolutely nothing,
happens in God’s world by accident.
God doesn’t make mistakes
These words are the cornerstone of my belief system. They come from my ‘other’ bible, the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. These words are the inspiration for my personal recovery, both physically and spiritually. It’s difficult to apply these words to yesterday’s horror in Texas, however. I spent some time in the armed services and went through combat in Viet Nam.
I can understand the need to take lives to protect one’s self and those whose lives are entrusted to you. I can understand police activity that involves the use of deadly force in order to “protect the domestic tranquility“. I understand that this is part of the world in which we live and I trust that these actions are all part of a plan, the nature of which I do not have the need or ability to know.
What I’m having a difficult time wrapping my head around this morning, is the purpose in the killings and wounding of unarmed people who were waiting in line to defend me and our country. I’m having difficulty accepting this terror as part of a plan of my loving, benevolent God. It all seems so senseless.
It’s things like this that really test my faith in God and His plan. I have to fight off the instinct to demand explanations and insist that this horror make sense. I truly have difficulty letting God take care of His world and my part in it.
What I have to remember is that I’m understanding exactly everything I’m supposed to at this time. I’m exactly where I am supposed to be right now. I’m who I am meant to be, right now.
There is a purpose. There is a plan. And there is no reason to believe that anything is not precisely as it is supposed to be in God’s world.
Dear God, thank you for granting me ignorance of Your wisdom, the gift of pain and grief, and the benefit of Your love. I trust You , absolutely. I ask that You provide these victims and those around them only that ignorance, pain and grief, and love they are able to benefit from. May the teaching of Jesus the Nazarene guide us through these next few days. Amen.
happens in God’s world by accident.
God doesn’t make mistakes
These words are the cornerstone of my belief system. They come from my ‘other’ bible, the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. These words are the inspiration for my personal recovery, both physically and spiritually. It’s difficult to apply these words to yesterday’s horror in Texas, however. I spent some time in the armed services and went through combat in Viet Nam.
I can understand the need to take lives to protect one’s self and those whose lives are entrusted to you. I can understand police activity that involves the use of deadly force in order to “protect the domestic tranquility“. I understand that this is part of the world in which we live and I trust that these actions are all part of a plan, the nature of which I do not have the need or ability to know.
What I’m having a difficult time wrapping my head around this morning, is the purpose in the killings and wounding of unarmed people who were waiting in line to defend me and our country. I’m having difficulty accepting this terror as part of a plan of my loving, benevolent God. It all seems so senseless.
It’s things like this that really test my faith in God and His plan. I have to fight off the instinct to demand explanations and insist that this horror make sense. I truly have difficulty letting God take care of His world and my part in it.
What I have to remember is that I’m understanding exactly everything I’m supposed to at this time. I’m exactly where I am supposed to be right now. I’m who I am meant to be, right now.
There is a purpose. There is a plan. And there is no reason to believe that anything is not precisely as it is supposed to be in God’s world.
Dear God, thank you for granting me ignorance of Your wisdom, the gift of pain and grief, and the benefit of Your love. I trust You , absolutely. I ask that You provide these victims and those around them only that ignorance, pain and grief, and love they are able to benefit from. May the teaching of Jesus the Nazarene guide us through these next few days. Amen.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
VETERAN'S DAY 2009
"Let us give thanks to God for the land of our birth with all its chartered liberties. For all the wonder of our country's story:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For leaders in nation and state, and for those who in days past and in these present times have labored for the commonwealth:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For those who in all times and places have been true and brave, and in the world's common ways have lived upright lives and ministered to their fellows:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For those who served their country in its hour of need, and especially for those who gave even their lives in that service:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
O almighty God and most merciful Father, as we remember these your servants, remembering with gratitude their courage and strength, we hold before you those who mourn them. Look upon your bereaved servants with your mercy. As this day brings them memories of those they have lost awhile, may it also bring your consolation and the assurance that their loved ones are alive now and forever in your living presence."
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THOSE WHO GUARD OUR FREEDOMS
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For leaders in nation and state, and for those who in days past and in these present times have labored for the commonwealth:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For those who in all times and places have been true and brave, and in the world's common ways have lived upright lives and ministered to their fellows:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
For those who served their country in its hour of need, and especially for those who gave even their lives in that service:
Reprise: WE GIVE YOU THANKS, O GOD.
O almighty God and most merciful Father, as we remember these your servants, remembering with gratitude their courage and strength, we hold before you those who mourn them. Look upon your bereaved servants with your mercy. As this day brings them memories of those they have lost awhile, may it also bring your consolation and the assurance that their loved ones are alive now and forever in your living presence."
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THOSE WHO GUARD OUR FREEDOMS
Shame on Maine
Well, as expected, the fear mongers and promoters of ignorance succeeded in clouding the issues and convinced Mainers to violate the civil liberties of a whole segment of our population. That's right, like it or not, homosexuals are a growing segment of our population and they don't have equal protection under the law.
In fact, marriage it is a civil matter requiring a government license, and recorded in a government courthouse. Marriages are civil actions with civil rights and regulations. There is nothing “church”, religious, scriptural, or sacred, about it. If this is confusing, try to get married without a marriage license issued by a government officer.
Everyone who wants to believe that a wedding is sacred is welcome so to do and they would be supported by scripture and most churches. However, some time in the distant past, marriages were confused with weddings which are preformed by clergy and sanctified by God. And this somehow transformed a civil act into a religious one.
It is possible for the government to recognize and protect civil rights to equal protection under the law without clouding the issue with religious interference. No one can perform a marriage without special government permission, even clergy. Judges, Justices of the Peace, Clerks of Courts, some wardens of prisons, and a variety of other civil officials can perform marriages. Even ship's captains can do it. WHY? Because these people, by virtue of their civil authority, have permission from the government. Some (albeit, most) clergy can marry people, too. But it has nothing to do with their religious affiliation, religious beliefs, or God. All clergy must present their credentials to a government authority to be reviewed and judged to be sufficient. Even when a couple is wedded by a member of the clergy, that clergy must sign the official government document for the marriage to be valid.
So what have the voters of Maine done to "protect" the institution of marriage? Nothing! Nothing but restrict a segment of Maine residents from being afforded the same civil rights as others. All of the scriptural, spiritual, religious, and moral arguments do nothing but obscure the fact that some of Maine's residents continue to be blocked from exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right to equal protection under the law.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
In fact, marriage it is a civil matter requiring a government license, and recorded in a government courthouse. Marriages are civil actions with civil rights and regulations. There is nothing “church”, religious, scriptural, or sacred, about it. If this is confusing, try to get married without a marriage license issued by a government officer.
Everyone who wants to believe that a wedding is sacred is welcome so to do and they would be supported by scripture and most churches. However, some time in the distant past, marriages were confused with weddings which are preformed by clergy and sanctified by God. And this somehow transformed a civil act into a religious one.
It is possible for the government to recognize and protect civil rights to equal protection under the law without clouding the issue with religious interference. No one can perform a marriage without special government permission, even clergy. Judges, Justices of the Peace, Clerks of Courts, some wardens of prisons, and a variety of other civil officials can perform marriages. Even ship's captains can do it. WHY? Because these people, by virtue of their civil authority, have permission from the government. Some (albeit, most) clergy can marry people, too. But it has nothing to do with their religious affiliation, religious beliefs, or God. All clergy must present their credentials to a government authority to be reviewed and judged to be sufficient. Even when a couple is wedded by a member of the clergy, that clergy must sign the official government document for the marriage to be valid.
So what have the voters of Maine done to "protect" the institution of marriage? Nothing! Nothing but restrict a segment of Maine residents from being afforded the same civil rights as others. All of the scriptural, spiritual, religious, and moral arguments do nothing but obscure the fact that some of Maine's residents continue to be blocked from exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right to equal protection under the law.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Thursday, October 29, 2009
MORE MUSINGS FROM MEXICOTwo things crossed my desk today, each from my home town of Brewer Maine. The first was an email from a former classmate apprising me of the death of another classmate from High School. The other was an announcement that the Boy Scouts Troop of which I was a member had turned 100 years old. Both of these news items, together, combined to cause a rush of memories of my childhood.
Brenda's death touched me far deeper than any friendship we had during High School. I recall several opportunities when I could have been a better friend and wasn't. You see, Brenda was physically challenged to the point that she eventually became a quadriplegic. She was handicapped even more by the ignorance and intolerance of the community and sometimes me. I don't make apologies for my behavior, or lack of action, to be more specific. I was a kid and moved in different circles than did Brenda. But on the occasions when our paths did cross, I was frequently less than kind and sometimes downright hurtful.
I would love to rationalize my behavior away as that of a young kid who didn't know any better. The problem is, though, I did know better. I was raised to know better. I had been a jerk and knew it. As happens, Brenda and I never connected again after High School, both she and I moved away, me to the Navy, Viet Nam, and marriage, and she (I just found out) to State government, where she was a driving force in Maine becoming aware of the handicapped and their special needs.
Call it karma, fate, or destiny, but 40+ years later I do have the opportunity to atone for whatever slights I did to Brenda. Some of you may know that my wife is now handicapped and dependent on my assistance for her daily needs. God does work in mysterious ways.
The second piece of news was about Boy Scout Troop reaching the 100 year milestone. As a boy and continuing into my teens I was involved in scouting. I was a Cub Scout, Boy Scout (in Troop 1) and an Explorer Scout. These organizations made up much of my 'out of family' life as a child. What I remember most was the freedom to make mistakes, with the expectation that we learned from those mistakes. Each week we were expected to show up at a meeting, dress a certain way, be clean and act right. We performed rituals that included attention to God and Country. We learned to undertake tasks with the expectation that we completed these tasks on time and in the desired format. Our leaders made no secret that the Scouts was a place to learn how to be a 'man'. Weaknesses were challenged but never exploited. Leadership qualities were encouraged and rewarded. We (I) learned that being a good follower was also OK.
I'm not sure that these qualities are taught today. I wonder if children are encouraged to try new things with the possibility of failure. I sometimes see parents talk of failure as a four letter word. The ability to fail builds character. We were allowed to put ourselves in harms way, under supervision, and when we failed, it was a learning opportunity, not a time for ridicule. I still have the scars from a fall onto the “big rockies” while on an Explorer outing to Beach Hill Lake. I was fearless and careless. I lost my footing on a boulder and opened up my knee. Our leader, Gardner Reed, had to leave the group and take me home. I felt terrible. Not for the cut and new stitches, but because I would have to suffer the teasing from my friends. The teasing lasted about a day, the lessons from that day still serve me today.
Recently it seems that the only time I hear about friends from High School is in the obituaries. I guess that is to expected, but not welcomed. I am a better person because of the Scouts. And I can now understand how my choices very often result in consequences unimaginable at the time.
Brenda's death touched me far deeper than any friendship we had during High School. I recall several opportunities when I could have been a better friend and wasn't. You see, Brenda was physically challenged to the point that she eventually became a quadriplegic. She was handicapped even more by the ignorance and intolerance of the community and sometimes me. I don't make apologies for my behavior, or lack of action, to be more specific. I was a kid and moved in different circles than did Brenda. But on the occasions when our paths did cross, I was frequently less than kind and sometimes downright hurtful.
I would love to rationalize my behavior away as that of a young kid who didn't know any better. The problem is, though, I did know better. I was raised to know better. I had been a jerk and knew it. As happens, Brenda and I never connected again after High School, both she and I moved away, me to the Navy, Viet Nam, and marriage, and she (I just found out) to State government, where she was a driving force in Maine becoming aware of the handicapped and their special needs.
Call it karma, fate, or destiny, but 40+ years later I do have the opportunity to atone for whatever slights I did to Brenda. Some of you may know that my wife is now handicapped and dependent on my assistance for her daily needs. God does work in mysterious ways.
The second piece of news was about Boy Scout Troop reaching the 100 year milestone. As a boy and continuing into my teens I was involved in scouting. I was a Cub Scout, Boy Scout (in Troop 1) and an Explorer Scout. These organizations made up much of my 'out of family' life as a child. What I remember most was the freedom to make mistakes, with the expectation that we learned from those mistakes. Each week we were expected to show up at a meeting, dress a certain way, be clean and act right. We performed rituals that included attention to God and Country. We learned to undertake tasks with the expectation that we completed these tasks on time and in the desired format. Our leaders made no secret that the Scouts was a place to learn how to be a 'man'. Weaknesses were challenged but never exploited. Leadership qualities were encouraged and rewarded. We (I) learned that being a good follower was also OK.
I'm not sure that these qualities are taught today. I wonder if children are encouraged to try new things with the possibility of failure. I sometimes see parents talk of failure as a four letter word. The ability to fail builds character. We were allowed to put ourselves in harms way, under supervision, and when we failed, it was a learning opportunity, not a time for ridicule. I still have the scars from a fall onto the “big rockies” while on an Explorer outing to Beach Hill Lake. I was fearless and careless. I lost my footing on a boulder and opened up my knee. Our leader, Gardner Reed, had to leave the group and take me home. I felt terrible. Not for the cut and new stitches, but because I would have to suffer the teasing from my friends. The teasing lasted about a day, the lessons from that day still serve me today.
Recently it seems that the only time I hear about friends from High School is in the obituaries. I guess that is to expected, but not welcomed. I am a better person because of the Scouts. And I can now understand how my choices very often result in consequences unimaginable at the time.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
IF I MAY HAVE YOUR ATTENTION FOR A MOMENT
I was shopping at the local supermarket yesterday and happened to overhear a conversation between a couple. This would not be remarkable except that they were speaking English. And that would not be remarkable unless you remember that I live in Mexico.
Ken and Michele Trapnell are, it turns out, missionaries in a small town south of here. We had a very enjoyable conversation and agreed to exchange email address and web site info.
Over the last two days I have researched this couple and their commitment to Mexico and to Jesus Christ. Both are solid and strong. So here is the reason for this message.
Support this mission!!!
Mexico Medical Missions delivers the goods.
They walk the talk, it's that simple
Please check out their web site.
So, when you're in the next meeting of your church group or social club, or even if you have a calling to help on a personal level, remember Mexico Medical Missions as a place where your energy and resourses will have a maximum impact.
Also, please feel free to forward this message to your contacts across the web. Thanks
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
I was shopping at the local supermarket yesterday and happened to overhear a conversation between a couple. This would not be remarkable except that they were speaking English. And that would not be remarkable unless you remember that I live in Mexico.
Ken and Michele Trapnell are, it turns out, missionaries in a small town south of here. We had a very enjoyable conversation and agreed to exchange email address and web site info.
Over the last two days I have researched this couple and their commitment to Mexico and to Jesus Christ. Both are solid and strong. So here is the reason for this message.
Support this mission!!!
Mexico Medical Missions delivers the goods.
They walk the talk, it's that simple
Please check out their web site.
So, when you're in the next meeting of your church group or social club, or even if you have a calling to help on a personal level, remember Mexico Medical Missions as a place where your energy and resourses will have a maximum impact.
Also, please feel free to forward this message to your contacts across the web. Thanks
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
FINAL ESSAY FOR THE COURSE
THE FOUR GOSPELS
REV. ROBERT JAMES SHAND MS, D.DIV.
http://freechurch.faithweb.com
As a minister of The Free Church of Universal Life, I have a close personal connection to all of the gospels of Jesus the Nazarene. This course both challenged and frustrated me on several levels. After many years of study and research of the “alternate” gospels, I found myself confronted with this seemingly simple interpretation of the four traditionally accepted gospels. The text presented these books in a way that was both simplistic and enlightening. This text even further confirmed my belief that there was only one source for all of these gospels. As presented, the gospels are almost a verbatim narration of one story that was circulated throughout early Christendom. This is not surprising, however. When Jesus sent his followers out to teach in His name, they took with them the oral narrative of the life of Jesus. And in at least one situation, this narrative was written down and circulated to the early Church. The original version of this written story is lost to history. But what we now read as the four gospels of the Bible, I believe, is a close approximation of that early text. That the 4th century Christian leaders who met to determine the “true” Bible saw these four narratives as inspired by God is not that difficult to understand. Imagine being in a crowded room with hundreds of people, each with particular points of view and a cannons of beliefs that seem either too conservative or liberal to those you profess. And during these weeks and months of deliberations four stories seem to surface, each from a different country, written in a different language, and each being put forth as the “truth”. In those days, only one or two generations away from paganism and polytheism in Rome, seeing four documents stating essentially the same exact thing must have seem divine. After much discussion and debate, these early Christian leaders could agree that these four nearly identical stories must present the true account of the life and ministry of Jesus.
This theory is not intended to diminish the importance of the Word. It only highlights the need to read and understand other narratives of the teachings of Jesus. I believe that Jesus the Nazarene was, and is, the Messiah sent by God, the Creator. But, the four gospels do not present the entire teachings of Jesus. In recent history we have been able to see and read other documents which shed more light on Jesus the Nazarene and his life and teachings. These new texts allow for a rethink of the four traditional gospels. It is important to note that none of the new documents suggest anything that pulls the gospels into question or that might diminish Jesus and his teachings. The one exception might be that Jesus may not have actually died on the cross and ascended to heaven, but lived to marry and have children. Even if that was true, it doesn't take away from His message. But that is another essay.
This theory is not intended to diminish the importance of the Word. It only highlights the need to read and understand other narratives of the teachings of Jesus. I believe that Jesus the Nazarene was, and is, the Messiah sent by God, the Creator. But, the four gospels do not present the entire teachings of Jesus. In recent history we have been able to see and read other documents which shed more light on Jesus the Nazarene and his life and teachings. These new texts allow for a rethink of the four traditional gospels. It is important to note that none of the new documents suggest anything that pulls the gospels into question or that might diminish Jesus and his teachings. The one exception might be that Jesus may not have actually died on the cross and ascended to heaven, but lived to marry and have children. Even if that was true, it doesn't take away from His message. But that is another essay.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Saturday, July 25, 2009
ON FAITH AND FACTS
Some may ask why this discussion needs to be revisited. We all know the differences between these terms. Don't we?
Well, apparently not. In researching the literature for my upcoming book, SAY WHAT YOU MEAN-MEAN WHAT YOU SAY1, I found that even today, in the age of electronic everything, people are still compelled to blur these terms to fit their own agenda.
FAITH is what we hope to be true. We do not need any facts to back up our FAITH. As a matter of fact, if there were to be facts available to prove the point, we wouldn't need FAITH. We have FAITH in information we receive from outside sources. Someone, either in person, through the electronic media or in the written word, has told us something and we BELIEVE them and have FAITH that the information is true. What they have to say may be pure fantasy or it may be based on a pseudo-science such as astrology or Tarot readings, or, in the case of we Christians, the information we have FAITH in comes from the writings about Jesus the Nazarene. Whatever the source, it sounds good and offers to meet some unmet need and we attach value to it and have FAITH that it will turn out our advantage. Much of the time it is based loosely on mythology or “traditional History”.2 Some of the time it is based on the teachings of a mystic, guru, prophet, or even God. But no matter how much of these stories come from an oral tradition, text books, or religious doctrine, something appeals to us and we have FAITH in the message. We want it to be true and in FAITH, we impose “TRUTH” on the message. As a result, we oftentimes profess that what we have FAITH in (BELIEVE in) is TRUTH. As a result, TRUTH then is the internalization of these stories from outside sources which we BELIEVE and assign them to be TRUE. What we BELIEVE is TRUTH. When many people have FAITH in a message and BELIEVE it to be true, they frequently band together in this common, shared BELIEF. When the BELIEF concerns God we call these groups religions, and when the common belief concerns the life and teachings of Jesus the Nazarene we are known collectively as Christians.
The accounts written in what we call the New Testament are a few of the stories, mythology, and folktales about Jesus the Nazarene. As science advances we are slowly being able to see and study other stories and mythologies about Jesus from outside sources. We have manuscripts, books, and other archaeological evidence that Jesus probably lived, that He was a devotee of the Essene sect of Jews, that he was a rabbi and teacher, and that He rebelled against the establishment. He was a radical left wing pain in the side of the established Temple hierarchy. It was this hierarchy who manipulated the Roman government, and as a result, Jesus was sentenced to death.
We also have 2000 years of the continuous, uninterrupted FAITH in Jesus' teachings, HIS life as the message and HIS divinity. Not bad for a man who, during HIS entire ministry, only actually spoke to a few thousand people in a small, relatively unimportant part of the world and in a language spoken by only a handful of people. Today a preacher can go on television and speak directly to millions of people. What would Jesus think of that? I believe that HE would be (and is) extremely upset at the misinformation and manipulative messages being broadcast.
We have this Heritage of FAITH because a few of Jesus' followers thought that what He had to say was important enough to jot down some quotes and to write a few letters. But we don't have any facts to back up these stories and accounts of HIS life. Just because someone says so, doesn't make it so. “What if several people say so? Doesn't that make it so”, you may ask. Well, only if you are willing to admit that the world was actually flat right up to the point that it was proved a sphere. After all, everyone BELIEVED it to be flat and therefore it must be so.
Fortunately, we don't need to prove anything. Facts are fun but unnecessary when it come to Jesus the Nazarene. Jesus, you see, never asks us to BELIEVE anything. He never says “ I want to you to trust Me” or “BELIEVE in Me”. Jesus states , with authority, “I am the way!” He doesn't 'ask' us to do anything. He tells us that if we want salvation we must follow HIM. Jesus does not offer qualifiers like “if, and, or, but”. He doesn't hint, suggest, or elude, He simply states that He is the “way”. And, how do we know this is true, that he said these things? Because we have FAITH that the stories written in the New Testament are accurate representations of what Jesus actually said and did. And we have these stories from at least four separate, independent sources. And we have 2000 years of continued reliance on the accuracy of these stories, past down from generation to generation, first in an oral history and later in the written word.
Facts are fun, but FAITH is forever. Facts change as science continues to uncover the physical mysteries of this world. Someday maybe someone will find the facts that disprove the existence of Jesus. Even if that should occur, the message from Jesus the Nazarene would continue to be valid. His teaching of love, patience, and salvation through baptism and the forgiveness of sins through confession and absolution will go on.
1Due out in Fall 2009
2A term I made up to represent the stories and other oral traditions of our heritage, family, or tribe.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Thursday, June 4, 2009
THE MARINE
THE MARINE
We all came together,
Both young and old
To fight for our freedom,
To stand and be bold.
In the midst of all evil,
We stand our ground,
And we protect our country
From all terror around.
Peace and not war,
Is what some people say.
But I'll give my life,
So you can live the American way
I give you the right
To talk of your peace.
To stand in your groups,
and protest in our streets.
But still I fight on,
I don't fuss, I don't whine.
I'm just one of the people!
Who is doing your time.
I'm harder than nails,
Stronger than any machine.
I'm the immortal soldier,
I'm a U.S. MARINE!
So stand in my shoes,
And leave from your home.
Fight for the people who hate you,
With the protests they've shown.
Fight for the stranger,
Fight for the young.
So they all may have,
The greatest freedom you've won
Fight for the sick,
Fight for the poor
Fight for the cripple,
Who lives next door.
But when your time comes,
Do what I've done.
For if you stand up for freedom,
You'll stand when the fight's done
By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert, US Marine Corps
USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF
Hey Dad,
Do me a favor and label this 'The Marine' and send it to everybody on your email list. Even leave this letter in it. I want this rolling all over the US ; I want every home reading it. Every eye seeing it. And every heart to feel it. So can you please send this for me? I would but my email time isn't that long and I don 't have much time anyway.
You know what Dad? I wondered what it would be like to truly understand what JFK said in His inaugural speech. 'When the time comes to lay down my life for my country, I do not cower from this responsibility. I welcome it.' Well, now I know. And I do. Dad, I welcome the opportunity to do what I do. Even though I have left behind a beautiful wife, and I will miss the birth of our first born child, I would do it 70 times over to fight for the place that God has made for my home. I love you all and I miss you very much. I wish I could be there when Sandi has our baby, but tell her that I love her, and Lord willing, I will be coming home soon.Give Mom a great big hug from me and give one to yourself too.
Aaron
Please let this marine (and all our military) know we care by passing his poem onto your friends even if you don't usually take time to forward mail...do it this time!
Thanks,
Let's help Aaron's dad spread the word .... FREEDOM isn't FREE Someone pays for you and me.
We all came together,
Both young and old
To fight for our freedom,
To stand and be bold.
In the midst of all evil,
We stand our ground,
And we protect our country
From all terror around.
Peace and not war,
Is what some people say.
But I'll give my life,
So you can live the American way
I give you the right
To talk of your peace.
To stand in your groups,
and protest in our streets.
But still I fight on,
I don't fuss, I don't whine.
I'm just one of the people!
Who is doing your time.
I'm harder than nails,
Stronger than any machine.
I'm the immortal soldier,
I'm a U.S. MARINE!
So stand in my shoes,
And leave from your home.
Fight for the people who hate you,
With the protests they've shown.
Fight for the stranger,
Fight for the young.
So they all may have,
The greatest freedom you've won
Fight for the sick,
Fight for the poor
Fight for the cripple,
Who lives next door.
But when your time comes,
Do what I've done.
For if you stand up for freedom,
You'll stand when the fight's done
By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert, US Marine Corps
USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF
Hey Dad,
Do me a favor and label this 'The Marine' and send it to everybody on your email list. Even leave this letter in it. I want this rolling all over the US ; I want every home reading it. Every eye seeing it. And every heart to feel it. So can you please send this for me? I would but my email time isn't that long and I don 't have much time anyway.
You know what Dad? I wondered what it would be like to truly understand what JFK said in His inaugural speech. 'When the time comes to lay down my life for my country, I do not cower from this responsibility. I welcome it.' Well, now I know. And I do. Dad, I welcome the opportunity to do what I do. Even though I have left behind a beautiful wife, and I will miss the birth of our first born child, I would do it 70 times over to fight for the place that God has made for my home. I love you all and I miss you very much. I wish I could be there when Sandi has our baby, but tell her that I love her, and Lord willing, I will be coming home soon.Give Mom a great big hug from me and give one to yourself too.
Aaron
Please let this marine (and all our military) know we care by passing his poem onto your friends even if you don't usually take time to forward mail...do it this time!
Thanks,
Let's help Aaron's dad spread the word .... FREEDOM isn't FREE Someone pays for you and me.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
IN MY HUMBLE OPINION
There were two causalities in the War on Terrorism on Monday. Pvt. William Long was killed and Pvt. Quinton Ezeagwula was wounded in a attack on a military outpost by a Muslim extremist.
The facts are clear. Abdulhakim Bledsoe, aka Abdulhakim Mujahid Muhammad, armed with at least three firearms and, according to his own statements to police, acted on his religious beliefs as a practicing Muslim by driving by a military recruiting outpost in Little Rock, Arkansas and firing as many as sixteen shoots at the young, unarmed soldiers standing outside the office.
Pvt. Long was killed and Pvt. Ezeagwula was wounded in action as a direct result of enemy fire. Little Rock or Baghdad, it doesn't matter. They are causalities of armed aggression against the United States by a Muslim terrorist. They deserve the Purple Heart and to be listed as casualties of war.
Bledsoe is an enemy combatant and as such does not, and should not, have the civil protection of the constitution. He should be charged with acts of terrorism against the United States, confined in a military prison and afforded the same treatment as all other enemy combatants in the War on Terrorism.
Rev. Robert James Shand, MS. DD
Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico "people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
The facts are clear. Abdulhakim Bledsoe, aka Abdulhakim Mujahid Muhammad, armed with at least three firearms and, according to his own statements to police, acted on his religious beliefs as a practicing Muslim by driving by a military recruiting outpost in Little Rock, Arkansas and firing as many as sixteen shoots at the young, unarmed soldiers standing outside the office.
Pvt. Long was killed and Pvt. Ezeagwula was wounded in action as a direct result of enemy fire. Little Rock or Baghdad, it doesn't matter. They are causalities of armed aggression against the United States by a Muslim terrorist. They deserve the Purple Heart and to be listed as casualties of war.
Bledsoe is an enemy combatant and as such does not, and should not, have the civil protection of the constitution. He should be charged with acts of terrorism against the United States, confined in a military prison and afforded the same treatment as all other enemy combatants in the War on Terrorism.
Rev. Robert James Shand, MS. DD
Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico "people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Monday, June 1, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Vietnam Vet giving back by helping wounded soldiers.
Dr. Donald Hall a veteran of the Vietnam war has published a novel. The book sells online at most of the major bookstores, Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles, Books a Million, Indie Books, Authorhouse.com bookstore. Disney is looking into a possible movie from the book series. The title to the book is "The Cross-Over Chronicles" by D.L.Hall.
With every book that is sold he is donating a large percentage of the profit to
The National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington DC to help the soldiers who have been severely wounded in the war overseas to date.
Get the book it is a good story and helps a great cause. Thanks
Dr. Donald Hall a veteran of the Vietnam war has published a novel. The book sells online at most of the major bookstores, Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles, Books a Million, Indie Books, Authorhouse.com bookstore. Disney is looking into a possible movie from the book series. The title to the book is "The Cross-Over Chronicles" by D.L.Hall.
With every book that is sold he is donating a large percentage of the profit to
The National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington DC to help the soldiers who have been severely wounded in the war overseas to date.
Get the book it is a good story and helps a great cause. Thanks
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
URGENT MESSAGE
Hola, from beautiful, warm and SAFE, Mexico. I watch with interest the reports on travel to Mexico. As you may imagine, I watch and read everything about traveling to Mexico because I tutor people on how to retire here.
It is true that drug dealers and the people who smuggle illegals into the States are at war with each other and sometimes the police. And it is true that EVERYONE needs to take precautions against becoming a victim of street crime. That goes for Mexico as well as Maine and every other of the United States. The crime rates in the States is rising and violent crime leads the list.
I have lived in Mexico for 2 years now and not only do I feel right at home, I feel very safe in town and traveling withing the country. Since I don't use drugs, sell drugs, coyote illegals across the border, nor do I associate with those that do, I am at a very low risk of the types of crime sensationalized in the media. Crime is always here as in every place else. People here need to be diligent and aware, just like those in Philadelphia or New Haven to minimize the potential for being victimized.
I encourage everyone who wants a pleasant, fun, exciting retirement in the sun to come here to live. For those looking for a respite, come to Mexico, bring your money, spend it wisely, and then go home to tell all of your friends how much fun you had and how inexpensive Mexico is as a tourist destination.
However, if your goal is to buy and sell drugs, get sloppy drunk, flash your wealth, be overly promiscuous, and generally act like an ass, STAY HOME. You will most likely be part of the next headline.
It is true that drug dealers and the people who smuggle illegals into the States are at war with each other and sometimes the police. And it is true that EVERYONE needs to take precautions against becoming a victim of street crime. That goes for Mexico as well as Maine and every other of the United States. The crime rates in the States is rising and violent crime leads the list.
I have lived in Mexico for 2 years now and not only do I feel right at home, I feel very safe in town and traveling withing the country. Since I don't use drugs, sell drugs, coyote illegals across the border, nor do I associate with those that do, I am at a very low risk of the types of crime sensationalized in the media. Crime is always here as in every place else. People here need to be diligent and aware, just like those in Philadelphia or New Haven to minimize the potential for being victimized.
I encourage everyone who wants a pleasant, fun, exciting retirement in the sun to come here to live. For those looking for a respite, come to Mexico, bring your money, spend it wisely, and then go home to tell all of your friends how much fun you had and how inexpensive Mexico is as a tourist destination.
However, if your goal is to buy and sell drugs, get sloppy drunk, flash your wealth, be overly promiscuous, and generally act like an ass, STAY HOME. You will most likely be part of the next headline.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Why Counseling
WHEN FAITH ISN'T ENOUGH
(Or at least it seems that way)
Prayer, meditation, fasting, and other forms of spiritual cleansing are each, in their own way, forms of internal self-talk that we all use to make sense of the events of our lives. Most of the time we don't even know that is what we are doing. Somewhere in our history we have been taught how to cope with stressful situations. Some us were taught to pray for guidance. Some have been told that meditation and fasting will lead to peace of mind. Others of us were taught that stress is best dealt with by chemical intervention, legal and otherwise. Of course, not all of these methods are effective all of the time. At least, not to our level of expectation. Sometimes, even after doing what we know has worked in the past, we find that we are still unsatisfied. Our needs are left unmet. The most common reason that these methods are not always effective is because they rely on the individual to have the insight and strength to carry on alone. When we get stuck in the loop of stress and disappointment we need to get outside of ourselves and involve another. One of the best ways to do this is to visit our spiritual guide. Most minister, pastors, priests, etc. have some training and expertise in counseling people through stress. There are also groups of professional counselors who have specific education, training and skills, some of which use a spiritual and/or biblical approach.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN I NEED A COUNSELOR?
There is no easy answer to this question. Only you can know when you have done all that you know how to do and still are not satisfied. Some of us go immediately to a spiritual guide when things get stressful. Some go inside ourselves and pray or meditate for guidance. And some of us go inside of a bottle. A professional counselor can be the next best option. First of all they are uniquely qualified to do the job. Next, they are bound by ethical mandates of confidentiality. And, sometimes most importantly, they can act as a disinterested third party who can give honest feedback, insight, and confrontation, allowing you to see your issues from another point of view. To gain perspective, so to speak. Oftentimes this new perspective is the key to resolving your stress.
There is no easy answer to this question. Only you can know when you have done all that you know how to do and still are not satisfied. Some of us go immediately to a spiritual guide when things get stressful. Some go inside ourselves and pray or meditate for guidance. And some of us go inside of a bottle. A professional counselor can be the next best option. First of all they are uniquely qualified to do the job. Next, they are bound by ethical mandates of confidentiality. And, sometimes most importantly, they can act as a disinterested third party who can give honest feedback, insight, and confrontation, allowing you to see your issues from another point of view. To gain perspective, so to speak. Oftentimes this new perspective is the key to resolving your stress.
WHERE DO I FIND A COUNSELOR?
When we are experiencing stress, we oftentimes become concerned that others will see us as weak and vulnerable. This makes it difficult to ask for help. Who do you trust? Your family? Pastor? Friends? When the answer is difficult to find, get out the BOOK. No, not that one, although it never hurts to consult the Bible for answers, the book here is the Yellow Pages. Go to the “Marriage and Family Counselors” or “Mental Health” sections and go down the list. Do you recognize any of the names? Did someone you know use one of these agencies? Are any of them specifically offering a Christian or Bible based approach? If none of the names stand out, pick up the phone and call the agency who's ad grabs your attention. You need to ask these three questions:
When we are experiencing stress, we oftentimes become concerned that others will see us as weak and vulnerable. This makes it difficult to ask for help. Who do you trust? Your family? Pastor? Friends? When the answer is difficult to find, get out the BOOK. No, not that one, although it never hurts to consult the Bible for answers, the book here is the Yellow Pages. Go to the “Marriage and Family Counselors” or “Mental Health” sections and go down the list. Do you recognize any of the names? Did someone you know use one of these agencies? Are any of them specifically offering a Christian or Bible based approach? If none of the names stand out, pick up the phone and call the agency who's ad grabs your attention. You need to ask these three questions:
Do you have Christian counselors available?
What are your fees? Do you have a sliding fee schedule? What, if any, insurance do you accept?
Are your counselors licensed or certified in any way?
What are your fees? Do you have a sliding fee schedule? What, if any, insurance do you accept?
Are your counselors licensed or certified in any way?
The ideal match would be a Christian counselor who is licensed or certified, who is able to provide services you can afford without adding to your stress.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM A COUNSELOR?
When you are “in counseling” you are in it 24/7, not just the 50 minutes you are with the counselor. Your counselor will only be able to help you with the issues you bring with you to the sessions. Some counselors are clever and can sometimes “trick” you into areas you are trying to avoid. But, here it is, it's your dime! You can decide to jump into the deep end right away and get down to it, or you can hem and haw at $$ an hour, waiting for the counseling to “work”. If you choose the later approach, don't be surprised if the counselor asks you to come back when you're ready to work.
Write down what it is you are feeling, thinking, and looking for as an outcome of the counseling before coming to the first session. Your counselor may even ask you to complete an intake questionnaire, inviting you to explain your background and current situation. Be as specific as you can. The more you can get your issues out and onto paper, the quicker you can get down to work in the sessions.
Counseling sessions take may forms. The most common is the office interview, conversation style. You and the counselor discuss your issues in a quiet, comfortable room. The counselor may ask open ended questions in an attempt to guide you through a particular point. You may be asked to talk about your belief system and how your beliefs effects your issues. Don't be surprised if you are asked to describe your relationships. Sometimes how we relate to others explains a lot about how we deal with stress. And you should expect homework to be completed between sessions. This may be a journal, notes to yourself, questionnaires or worksheets, etc. Or, you may be asked to read something or watch a video. Let's face it. You are in counseling because what you have always done to deal with stress has failed. You need to learn something new. Knowledge is the key to changing beliefs. And beliefs are the framework of our behavior. It's as simple as “A,B,C”.
A- Activating Event
B- Belief/Behavior
C- Consequences
Something happens, we make choices based on our beliefs about the event which lead to behaviors, and there are consequences associated with our choices/behaviors. These consequences become the next activating events and the whole cycle begins again. If, at any point in this process we take a detour or are confronted with a roadblock we can't get around, we can spin out of control. What we “know” no longer provides relief. What we believe comes into question, and what we do is based on faulty logic. It is this faulty logic that a counselor can discover and help you get back on track.
When you are “in counseling” you are in it 24/7, not just the 50 minutes you are with the counselor. Your counselor will only be able to help you with the issues you bring with you to the sessions. Some counselors are clever and can sometimes “trick” you into areas you are trying to avoid. But, here it is, it's your dime! You can decide to jump into the deep end right away and get down to it, or you can hem and haw at $$ an hour, waiting for the counseling to “work”. If you choose the later approach, don't be surprised if the counselor asks you to come back when you're ready to work.
Write down what it is you are feeling, thinking, and looking for as an outcome of the counseling before coming to the first session. Your counselor may even ask you to complete an intake questionnaire, inviting you to explain your background and current situation. Be as specific as you can. The more you can get your issues out and onto paper, the quicker you can get down to work in the sessions.
Counseling sessions take may forms. The most common is the office interview, conversation style. You and the counselor discuss your issues in a quiet, comfortable room. The counselor may ask open ended questions in an attempt to guide you through a particular point. You may be asked to talk about your belief system and how your beliefs effects your issues. Don't be surprised if you are asked to describe your relationships. Sometimes how we relate to others explains a lot about how we deal with stress. And you should expect homework to be completed between sessions. This may be a journal, notes to yourself, questionnaires or worksheets, etc. Or, you may be asked to read something or watch a video. Let's face it. You are in counseling because what you have always done to deal with stress has failed. You need to learn something new. Knowledge is the key to changing beliefs. And beliefs are the framework of our behavior. It's as simple as “A,B,C”.
A- Activating Event
B- Belief/Behavior
C- Consequences
Something happens, we make choices based on our beliefs about the event which lead to behaviors, and there are consequences associated with our choices/behaviors. These consequences become the next activating events and the whole cycle begins again. If, at any point in this process we take a detour or are confronted with a roadblock we can't get around, we can spin out of control. What we “know” no longer provides relief. What we believe comes into question, and what we do is based on faulty logic. It is this faulty logic that a counselor can discover and help you get back on track.
WHAT COUNSELING CAN'T DO
FIX IT! Counseling can not “fix” anything. Only you can do that. Your counselor can only point out some of your faulty logic which is clouding your choice making ability.
MAKE IT GO AWAY! Your stress is a naturally occurring result of some event that your prior coping mechanisms are not able to deal with. If fact, you don't want the stress to go away, unresolved. It will be there in the background, eating away at your self confidence and self esteem. Skin conditions, heart problems, nervous tics, and high blood pressure are oftentimes the result of unresolved stress. You must deal with it.
CURE YOU! Happily, stress is one of those conditions that we have the ability to “cure” ourselves, with assistance. Once you have determined the cause of the stress, you can take steps to reduce the symptoms and avoid their return. Your new knowledge and understanding will lead to changes in your belief system. These changes in your beliefs will lead to changes in the way you view the world and how these events effect you. And, consequently, this new perspective on the world will result in better choices when similar events occur in the future.
MAKE IT GO AWAY! Your stress is a naturally occurring result of some event that your prior coping mechanisms are not able to deal with. If fact, you don't want the stress to go away, unresolved. It will be there in the background, eating away at your self confidence and self esteem. Skin conditions, heart problems, nervous tics, and high blood pressure are oftentimes the result of unresolved stress. You must deal with it.
CURE YOU! Happily, stress is one of those conditions that we have the ability to “cure” ourselves, with assistance. Once you have determined the cause of the stress, you can take steps to reduce the symptoms and avoid their return. Your new knowledge and understanding will lead to changes in your belief system. These changes in your beliefs will lead to changes in the way you view the world and how these events effect you. And, consequently, this new perspective on the world will result in better choices when similar events occur in the future.
WHAT ABOUT MY FAITH?
It is possible that some of your beliefs about God, Jesus, and religion will be challenged. Don't worry, God can take it. Jesus will never be hurt by your questions. And your religious beliefs can always use a little tweaking. If they are true, they will be your base, your support system, your foundation. If they let you down, maybe they weren't true in the first place. If you are a Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, or whatever, because your parents were, or you belong to a church whose focus has turned away from the faith it had when you joined, it maybe time for a change. At least it's time for a review of your core values. If, during the counseling process you are suddenly confronted with a crisis of faith you have the obligation to tell the counselor this. A faith-based counselor will be able to guide you. You may be asked to join like minded people for group sessions dealing with this specific issue.
It is possible that some of your beliefs about God, Jesus, and religion will be challenged. Don't worry, God can take it. Jesus will never be hurt by your questions. And your religious beliefs can always use a little tweaking. If they are true, they will be your base, your support system, your foundation. If they let you down, maybe they weren't true in the first place. If you are a Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, or whatever, because your parents were, or you belong to a church whose focus has turned away from the faith it had when you joined, it maybe time for a change. At least it's time for a review of your core values. If, during the counseling process you are suddenly confronted with a crisis of faith you have the obligation to tell the counselor this. A faith-based counselor will be able to guide you. You may be asked to join like minded people for group sessions dealing with this specific issue.
God don't make mistakes. And God doesn't answer to us. We answer to Him
1Paraphrased from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Friday, January 30, 2009
Allright, Already
As you may know, I have recently been ordained as a Minister. With that ordination has come many more people reading my writings. And, as some of my writings contain words that some believe are offensive, I feel a need to comment.
Words are just words. They neither enlighten nor offend. They only have the meaning we assign to them. It is the user that determines whether a word enlightens or offends, does neither, or both. The same word, when used in a different context can have the exact opposite effect.
When I write stories, the characters tell me what they say and I write those words down. I know that that sounds like a cop out, but that's how it happens for me. Some of my characters sometimes use words that even I find offensive. But that is how that character talks and I feel a need to be true to him/her in the story.
So, to my newly found brothers and sisters who are questioning my faith and calling, please understand that I do not intend to insult or offend you in any way. Feel free to condemn my characters for their blasphemy or whatever, but please remember that they are just words, offered for your entertainment.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Words are just words. They neither enlighten nor offend. They only have the meaning we assign to them. It is the user that determines whether a word enlightens or offends, does neither, or both. The same word, when used in a different context can have the exact opposite effect.
When I write stories, the characters tell me what they say and I write those words down. I know that that sounds like a cop out, but that's how it happens for me. Some of my characters sometimes use words that even I find offensive. But that is how that character talks and I feel a need to be true to him/her in the story.
So, to my newly found brothers and sisters who are questioning my faith and calling, please understand that I do not intend to insult or offend you in any way. Feel free to condemn my characters for their blasphemy or whatever, but please remember that they are just words, offered for your entertainment.
"people should have to pay to go to church and theater should be free"
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Sometimes I just have to say it
Sometimes I answer questions on Yahoo. Most of the time it's about traveling to Mexico. But today one of the questions asked "what can we do about all of the illegal Mexicans draining the welfare system and taking jobs away from "Americans". Most of the responses chastized the asker and attempted to set her straight. I really got pissed, though, when one of the answers lauded her for her "insight". I just had to add my 2 cents.
Just two new points.
1. Yes, it is true that only citizens can receive welfare in the US. However, all children born in the US are considered citizens, making them eligible, even if their parents are not. So, yes, some illegals are a burden to the systems.
2. It is true that many illegal immigrants work at "stoop labor" in the fields and factories for short wages.
A solution may be found in a fair system of legal "guest laborer" status so employers can hire immigrant labor to do the jobs unemployed US workers won't or can't do.
At the same time, there needs to be a change in the unemployment compensation system in the US. I recently heard that there are millions of "workers" unemployed. At the same time people complain that "millions" of illegal immigrants are working the fields and factories. Instead of collecting money from tax payers to sit around and be choosy about what jobs they will or will not accept, everyone who registers for unemployment should be required to work "day labor" "short term temp" and any other employment for pay, even short pay. NO ONE should be permitted to turn down any job!!! Lets require all of the unemployed US workers to take these field and factory jobs for the same money and under the same conditions the Mexicans get. Then, perhaps the market for illegals would dry up.
Until these unemployed US workers are willing to get out into the fields and into the factories, illegals will. In the meantime, the next time you enjoy a salad or buy a "made in USA" pair of jeans, thank a Mexican laborer for his/her willingness to leave the safety of his/her family and cross an artificial line in the sand to make them for you.
Just two new points.
1. Yes, it is true that only citizens can receive welfare in the US. However, all children born in the US are considered citizens, making them eligible, even if their parents are not. So, yes, some illegals are a burden to the systems.
2. It is true that many illegal immigrants work at "stoop labor" in the fields and factories for short wages.
A solution may be found in a fair system of legal "guest laborer" status so employers can hire immigrant labor to do the jobs unemployed US workers won't or can't do.
At the same time, there needs to be a change in the unemployment compensation system in the US. I recently heard that there are millions of "workers" unemployed. At the same time people complain that "millions" of illegal immigrants are working the fields and factories. Instead of collecting money from tax payers to sit around and be choosy about what jobs they will or will not accept, everyone who registers for unemployment should be required to work "day labor" "short term temp" and any other employment for pay, even short pay. NO ONE should be permitted to turn down any job!!! Lets require all of the unemployed US workers to take these field and factory jobs for the same money and under the same conditions the Mexicans get. Then, perhaps the market for illegals would dry up.
Until these unemployed US workers are willing to get out into the fields and into the factories, illegals will. In the meantime, the next time you enjoy a salad or buy a "made in USA" pair of jeans, thank a Mexican laborer for his/her willingness to leave the safety of his/her family and cross an artificial line in the sand to make them for you.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
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