But John Wayne has several other paeans to the simple greatness that is America:
Ah, we miss you, Duke!
"God of Our Fathers" was written by Daniel C. Roberts in 1876 (one would assume for our Centennial) and set to music already composed by George William Warren. The CompleteLee Blog has a little Bible study, and goes a little deeper into the history of the song. More information can be found here, here and here.
God of our fathers, whose almighty hand,And how ungrateful we have become, to turn away from the One True God who brought this country into being. How sad that the songs lifted up in faith and praise to Divine Providence have faded into a background murmur! How foolish we have become, to deny His presence and power, which are proclaimed throughout Creation!
Thy love divine hath led us in the past,Father, we have turned astray from the faith and love that built this nation under Your guidance. We reject Your good law and immerse ourselves in sin and unrighteousness, we kill our own children for convenience's sake and praise vain and selfish people rather than simple, honest and good citizens. Father, lay Your hand upon this nation once again to turn us back to You in faith, trust and obedience!
From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence,Only God can bring peace, and where the Spirit of God is, there is true liberty. It is the freedom to act with dignity and self-control, simply and humbly living for others according to God's will. It is the peace which passes all understanding, with which we can face the greatest bounty and the sorrows of war with hope and confidence, keeping our eye on the God who holds all history in His hand.
Refresh thy people on their toilsome way,Return, O Lord! Return to us and turn our hearts to You! Renew within us a right spirit, renew our minds with the washing of Your grace and Your word! Take away our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh that love Your commands and long to obey them! Make us into a people of praise, living Your precepts, worshiping You in spirit and in truth. Let Your work in this nation and in our hearts and lives be proclaimed to the glory of Your name throughout the world!
And though I despise the heresy of their church, you can't deny the beauty of the voices of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir:
--- I posted this three years ago, and it was well received. And so I post it again in hope that it lifts up someone's spirit and reminds them of the foundation of this great country on its birthday. Here is the wonderful mix that Alton made for me. He'd asked me to record this post, and then he added music. Listen or read - but enjoy either way! .---
Two hundred thirty three years ago, a group of men - men of influence, wisdom, and courage - gathered together to sign a Document and birth a Nation:
IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
And so began the war for our Independence, a war where we threw off the stifling apron-strings of our Mother, Britain, and began our journey of discovery. The War was long, and fraught with set-backs, disasters, tremendous hardship, and discouragement. But through it all, one man held true to the ideal and fought with dogged determination to keep his army and his new country from giving in.
General George Washington. He was not necessarily a brilliant man, but he was honorable and resolute. He had been given the duty of defeating the British and winning the War, and he pursued his orders with unflinching persistence.
And in October of 1781, the British General, Cornwallis, surrendered at Yorktown, VA.
The United States of America was free.
But freedom doesn't come easily. The States had adopted the Articles of Confederation in early 1781. The Articles gave the States many sovereign powers, and any changes to the Articles had to be approved by nine of the thirteen States. Federal power was practically non-existent: it couldn't raise taxes, it couldn't regulate trade, it couldn't stop States from printing their own money.
With authority to act scattered throughout the States, and an anemic central government, America threatened to dissolve into a group of bickering little provinces. The States had their own armies, their own international ambassadors, they argued over interstate trade, the justice system left quite a bit to be desired. In other words, it was a bit of a mess!
In 1786, after much unrest and disputes among the States, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton petitioned that the Constitutional Convention convene to write a new Constitution which would strengthen and unify our young Nation. The man the Convention elected to preside over this process was none other than George Washington, the man all Americans look on as our First Father. General Washington was reluctant - he had recently lost his brother, and he preferred to remain at Mount Vernon, managing his lands. Finally, however, he accepted the duty, and made his way to Pennsylvania.
Under his calm influence, eventually each of the States made compromises and came to agreements, negotiated the power of the Federal Government and State Governments, outlined the authorities of the branches of the Federal Government, and placed the ultimate power of Government firmly in the hands of the People. The first draft was accepted in August of 1787 after months of wrangling and debating. Five weeks later, on September 17th, the convention dismissed, and the Constitution went to the States for ratification. It wasn't until July of 1788 that the Convention received word that the ninth State, South Carolina had ratified the Constitution.
Finally, enough States had accepted the Constitution to begin to implement its laws. Of course, there was further debate about the Bill of Rights, which were passed by a total of three quarters of the States by late 1791, but now America had her "supreme Law of the Land," which began:
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Thus we began to work out this fine balance between the Power and Authority of the People, and that of the Government. Men and women have stepped up to serve our country in war and in peace throughout our 230-year history. Elected officials, military, police, firemen, medical personnel, charity organizations, human rights groups, and so many more have furthered the cause of Freedom and Liberty in our country.
But for me, no group deserves our honor and our respect more than the men and women who serve her in our Armed Forces. Each man and woman who enters the military takes this oath:
...I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same...
Our men and women do not swear to a particular leader. They are not members of a cult of personality. They swear to uphold the Law, and the Supreme Law of the United States of America is the Constitution.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what the Fourth of July means to me. "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," "We the People," and "I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same."
Happy 233rd birthday, America! I love you dearly, and pray that God will continue to bless and guide you. I pray that you will always be that "shining city on the hill," a light and example to the rest of the world of Freedom and Liberty.
Happy birthday!
hen
in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to
dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and
to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station
to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent
respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare
the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.
New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton
Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott
New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris
New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn
South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton
Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton
... from ReasonTV via the Puppy Blender...
Wow! Can we do that every year until the morons in D.C. actually learn fiscal responsibility?!
Oh, President Reagan, how I miss men of your strength and character! How I miss statesmen with clear moral vision and spines of steel!
It has been too long since giants walked the earth, and we are all diminished by it.
I am so glad that I never watched Letterman! If I had years of this bitter, unfunny drivel cluttering up my brain, I'm sure that I would be a brain-dead liberal, too.
Here is Gov. Palin's gracious and self-effacing response to Letterman's arrogant slander:
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Classy, classy lady! It would be an honor to shake her hand. Letterman, of course, would get the disdainful cold shoulder, which is more than a cad like him deserves.
See, this is how true conservatives act. They don't need an entourage, they don't need to parade themselves, and they are not so puffed up with themselves that they walk around with a "Do you know who I am?" attitude.
From FoxNation, an article at NBC Washington:
High school seniors Terrence Stephens and Jason Ankrah, star football players at Quince Orchard High School in Gaithersburg, Md., were sitting on a plane returning from a recruitment session at the University of Nebraska when they struck up a conversation with the man sitting next to them.
Their seat-mate just happened to be a major Cornhuskers fan.
When they started chatting, Stephens and Ankrah didn't have a clue they were holding court with Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
"I was amazed this guy knew so much about us as football players and as people," said Stephens. "That was shocking. I felt honored to be known by someone of his caliber. He was just a regular old guy, sitting in coach, which really shocked me."
And they were so impressed by Justice Thomas that they asked him to be the keynote speaker at their graduation - and he accepted.
"Just a regular old guy, sitting in coach."
Compare that to the whiny drama of Pelosi. Or the arrogant narcissism of President Obama.
A man of great power and influence chatting amiably with two unknown young men. A man of immense intellect and wide experience in humble conversation, focusing on others rather than himself.
Clarence Thomas. A man of dignity, grace, and character. A man!
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
' Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
-- Kipling, "If"
I got this link from my friend Scott on his Facebook page:
Is it okay to show your patriotism at the office?
For one Arlington woman, the answer was "no" after she hung an American flag in her office just before the Memorial Day weekend.
Debbie McLucas is one of four hospital supervisors at Kindred Hospital in Mansfield. Last week, she hung a three-by-five foot American flag in the office she shares with the other supervisors.
When McLucas came to work Friday, her boss told her another supervisor had found her flag offensive. "I was just totally speechless. I was like, 'You're kidding me,'" McLucas said.
Some ignorant and intolerant... person... was offended by the display of a flag for Memorial Day weekend?!
McLucas said the supervisor who complained has been in the United States for 14 years and is formerly from Africa. McLucas said the supervisor took down Debbie's flag herself.
This ... person... has been in America for 14 years, enjoying the hospitality, liberty and prosperity of America, and is OFFENDED at the display of the flag?
I have one thing to say: GET OUT.
As for the craven cowardice displayed by the admin department of the hospital, I would suggest that you call (817) 473-6101, ask for Administration, and offer them your thoughts. Firmly, politely - but very decisively.
(UPDATE: Scott has posted full contact details on his blog...)
UPDATE 2.0 - A David Inman, supposedly from Kindred has posted a comment at Scott's -
Kindred Hospital Mansfield has a great deal of appreciation for the service that many of our employees and their families have given to their country. We honor our veterans and active military through a variety of benefits and service programs. This was an isolated incident between two employees that we are working to resolve amicably. Both employees have family members who have served in the military. The disagreement was over the size of the flag and not what it symbolized. We have invited the employee to put the flag back up. We share their love of country and we appreciate the service of their family members as well as all members of the armed forces.
And NBC Dallas confirmed the facts stated in that comment.
Nevertheless, even if this is an office kerfuffle, the management should not have caved so readily. AND the supervisor who took it down behaved childishly. I still would like to know whether that person is a citizen or not...
We are, of course, going to be having a family gathering tomorrow at CatHouse Central to enjoy friends and family and the long weekend.
But this weekend is in memory and celebration of the men and women in our armed forces who gave the last, full measure of devotion to this country, so it's appropriate to remember and honor them.
Back in February, HBO aired an incredible movie - "Taking Chance." I was upset that I couldn't watch it, but heard so many enthusiastic endorsements of it - including from my Beloved Husband, who saw it while traveling - that I had to order it. I recieved notice near the beginning of May that it had shipped, but was down in Orlando helping my Mom when it arrived.
Today, while cleaning out the cooler in preparation for this weekend's festivities, lo and behold, there was the package from Amazon...
So now I have the perfect movie to remember and honor our citizan soldiers who have laid down their lives so that this country remains free.
The money quote:
“I am excited to continue my duty as Miss California, USA. All I want to be able to do is to tell my story, which no one can take away from me. Not everyone may like me or agree with me…but I hope at the end of the day, everyone can respect my rights, as I respect theirs; and together we can bring back civility in our social and cultural discussions. I am convinced, now more than ever, of the importance for standing up for your beliefs and convictions. For everyone out there listening - do not be silenced. Take this story of mine and apply it to your own life. I hope I’ve inspired others to maintain compassion, civility, respect, and tolerance - while staying true to your convictions…and to never, ever, compromise your beliefs in the pursuit [of your] goals, regardless of the consequences. [emph. mine]
... you'll know what to do.
Go read. NOW!
Last month, I referred to a post over at And Rightly So which discussed several states which had taken measures to take back their 10th Amendment rights from the Federal Government. I wondered why Virginia, which is the Mother of Presidents, hadn't gotten on the bandwagon, and several of my Virginia blog-brothers reminded me of the Virginia Resolution of 1798 (actual text here).
So, Virginia has had this on the books, as it were, for a long time.
I didn't blog it then, but last week, the Old Virginia Blog pointed to some information that Del. Christopher Peace is the chief sponsor of HR 61, State Sovereignty. Virginia *IS* pushing back against the Federal Government's infringement of states' rights!
Full text of the bill is here, and I give my whole hearted support to it - and I pray that, once it passes (God willing), the government of this Commonwealth follows through and tells the Feds where to stick it when Uncle Sam (NannyState version) tries to meddle!
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With the Republican Party of Virginia making serious moves to oust its currant chairman, Jeff Frederick, will the National Committee be following suit?
*sigh*
Looks like the Republican Party continues to implode. Which is just as well - the RINOs need to be purged (yes, I know it's a strong word), and the Party needs to return to and promote its foundational values: small government, low taxes, economic power, strong national defense, combined with personal integrity and honor at every level.
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Totally LOVE Evan... He's awesome! His last speech at Heritage was two years ago, and was superb. Now he's back with a speech from last week, again at Heritage:
I'm going to get it, though, if it ever comes out on DVD...
I've really been disgusted by the continual creep of the Federal Government into areas where it has no Constitutional right. It offends me as a citizen and as a conservative who loves our Founding Documents and the founding principles of this country.
This morning, I see that Duncan over at And Rightly So has posted that Texas is finally fed up with this too, and has taken steps to address the issue. Here's the summary of the bill (ARS has the full text):
Affirming that the State of Texas claims sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States over all powers not otherwise enumerated and granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution, serving notice to the federal government to cease and desist certain mandates, and providing that certain federal legislation be prohibited or repealed.
Virginia, you are the "Mother of Presidents"! Many of our distinguished Founders and Presidents have come from the Commonwealth, and served with honor and integrity. Why are we not on the forefront of this movement??
Watch the WHOLE THING!
Really, I do. We don't agree on everything, but the love and regard we have for our nation and for conservative/libertarian ideals is spot on:
It has been a source of delight for me these past few days to see nothing but evidence of this, all across our defeated lines. Nowhere have I heard a shred of defeatism or despair. On the contrary. In point of fact, the magnanimity and graciousness I have seen in defeat in so many places on the right tells me that this is a eager and seasoned army, one able to look defeat in the face and own up to the errors in tactics and strategy that got us there. And nowhere do I see a call to abandon our core principles and sue for terms, but rather that our loss was caused precisely by our abandonment of the issues we which hold dear and which have served us so well on battlefields past.
So consider this, my fellows in arms:
On Tuesday, the Left – armed with the most attractive, eloquent, young, hip and charismatic candidate I have seen with my adult eyes, a candidate shielded by a media so overtly that it can never be such a shield again, who appeared after eight years of a historically unpopular President, in the midst of two undefended wars and at the time of the worst financial crisis since the Depression and whose praises were sung by every movie, television and musical icon without pause or challenge for 20 months… who ran against the oldest nominee in the country’s history, against a campaign rent with internal disarray and determined not to attack in the one area where attack could have succeeded and who was out-spent no less than seven-to-one in a cycle where not a single debate question was unfavorable to his opponent – that historic victory, that perfect storm of opportunity…
Yielded a result of 53%
Folks, we are going to lick these people out of their boots.
Go read his whole post; it's short (particularly for him; he writes WONDERFUL essays!), and very much worth your time.
*sigh* Yup. Just ADORE the man...! And, he's just earned the right to have the label "Hero" applied to him in my categories - this has previously been reserved for our wonderful, brave military, and a few other folks who have also displayed courageous patriotism. Welcome to their ranks, Bill - you've earned it!
... Which is one of the BIGGEST reasons we lost this election, you friggin' morons! Via Ace, Michelle, and Redstate among many others, I hear of "anonymous" staffers from the McCain campaign trashing Gov/ Sarah Palin.
Ace says:
Here's a story these staffers tell: Sent to collect Palin from a hotel, she greeted them, straight from the shower (running late, I guess ) dressed (scandal!) only in a bathrobe (presumably a very thick hotel bathrobe).
These staffers called that "uncommon" -- Cameron delighted in the word to give it the sound of "whorish, unprofessional."
Heh, assholes? She had to open the door and had just gotten out of the shower. Did you want her to use her magical powers of telekinesis to open the door for you?
The anonymous trashing of Sarah Palin by blabbermouth McCain aides who are leaking to Fox News is disgusting. Absolutely disgusting.
Allah’s got the vid clip of a report citing unnamed McCain staffers accusing Palin of lacking, in Carl Cameron’s words, “knowledgeability.” More slime here. And here.
At least all the Hollywood and Manhattan Palin-haters were willing to sign their names and put their faces on their attacks.
Redstate is launching Operation Leper:
We intend to constantly remind the base about these people, monitor who they are working for, and, when 2012 rolls around, see which candidates hire them. Naturally then, you'll see us go to war against those candidates.
Works for me.
Listen, you deaf, smug, elitist snobs who claim to be Republicans and yet refuse to adhere to the core values of the party, I didn't for FOR John McCain. I voted FOR Sarah Palin and AGAINST Obama. If John McCain hadn't brought Sarah Palin on board as his running mate, I would have voted third party and said "To hell with the Republicans!"
If not for Sarah Palin, the popular vote would have been much MORE in Obama's favor; she is a true maverick, is cheerfully courageous, actually lives the values that make up the Republican Party, and isn't afraid to speak the truth and call her opponent on his gaffes, lies, subterfuges, associations, and experience. She is articulate without the overly-polished (i.e. "how well can I say something without actually saying anything?") rhetorical style of Washington insiders - she is a REAL PERSON who understands what it's like to be an "average citizen."
That's who I voted for, and your slimy, craven, and dishonorable behavior towards her ranks you right with the LameStream Lying Media and the DemonRATS.
We lost this election because you RINOs went to Washington, lived the good life, and forgot your base. Your spines turned to mush, your brains decayed, your hearing faded, and your eyes went blind. And the proof is that now, in defeat, instead of standing firm as the loyal opposition and graciously conceding this victory while remaining true to your (long-abandoned) values, you are rolling over, showing your belly, and peeing all over yourselves in eagerness to show your willingness to bend over and be screwed.
Curs! Cowardly, dishonorable, craven, spineless, frail, dithering, foolhardy IDIOTS!
Congratulate Sen. Obama for his historic accomplishment - and remind America that the race card is now off the table forever. Acknowledge his well-run campaign; 'cause you obviously can learn a lot from it. Acknowledge the Democrats' lawful leadership - but never forget that almost half of the people who voted voted AGAINST socialism, AGAINST big government, AGAINST weakness, and AGAINST corruption.
Your "leadership," RINOs, got us into this. You ignored your base, and now the country will pay the price. You will eventually go down; either to more and more liberal, spineless, weak socialists, or to true conservatives who will lead according to the foundational philosophy of conservatism: small government, fiscal restraint, national strength, personal integrity, individual responsibility, and dedicated perseverance.
Something tells me I'll be voting third party for real, next time - unless a miracle happens and you incompetents can get your act together and promote real conservative Republicans.
Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice... Ain't gonna happen, dudes.
UPDATE: Oh, and Misha has a few choice words to offer McCain (but read it all; it *IS* the Emperor, LOL) -
But where is the “Maverick” in all of this? Nowhere to be found. His staffers are spreading lies about his VP pick like crazy, but the “brave” Maverick can’t find it in himself to tell his own employees to shut up already and quit character assassinating his own pick. As a matter of fact, the only person in the McCain camp who stood up for her, one Randy Scheunemann, was first reported to have been fired for “disloyalty” and then, later on, claimed that he hadn’t been. Who knows?
All we know is that our Imperial Mother told us to stand up for ladies when they are attacked, but obviously that’s not something that appears in the McCain family curriculum.
Call us when you find your balls, you clown.
Yeah. I'm disgusted with this - for all the rhetoric McCain spoke about his warrior past, and his honorable, manly service, he can't stand up for the woman who pulled his campaign's nuts out of the fire and saved him from losing like Carter lost to Reagan.
[headdesk] No more, RINOs. Not EVER again!
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And vote McCain-Palin!
(Kittipurrs to Gateway Pundit)
Oh, and you want a bit more documented evidence of Obama's socialist background? Look right over here... Wonder why New Zealand could dig this up, when our own media can't [rolls eyes].
A vote for Obama is a vote for socialism and the destruction of our Constitutional liberties!
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Gateway Pundit posts this damning video about Obama's position on abortion:
Christian, if you are faithful to your Bible, you cannot vote for Sen. Obama. If you do, you are spitting in the face of God Himself - and displaying serious evidence which would lead many to conclude that you are not truly His.
Look at the way Obama prevaricates with Pastor Warren. Listen to his strong statements in favor of abortion. Remember how he describes a baby as a punishment when referring to his daughters and a hypothetical unplanned pregnancy.
Do you know how GOD describes children? Like this:
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior,
So are the children of one’s youth.
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them;
They shall not be ashamed,
But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.
The Lord has been abundantly kind to this nation, but we have fallen so terribly far from where we began! The fact that He has restrained His hand of judgment for so long both amazes and terrifies me, because America has earned His condemnation.
And if you think that I'm too single-issue about this, that's not my problem. But a true Christian recognizes and submits to God's absolute sovereignty over us all, even from before our birth - and He hates the murder of children. His holy hatred will exact a terrible retribution, and I fear for Sen. Obama's very soul when he espouses such evil while claiming the title of Christian.
At Sinai, God commanded the Israelites to choose, and to hold fast to that choice. He gives America the same choice today, with the same sober warning:
See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil, in that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess. But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them, I announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to go in and possess. I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them. [emph. mine]
Choose wisely, America. Your fate, and the fate of your children, hangs in the balance.
Have you considered praying for the economy?
Matt Perman, over at Desiring God, gives his reasons as to why every Christian ought to be doing this. Well worth a Sunday read, as are pretty much all the posts at Desiring God.
It is absolutely true that God does good through times of hardship and not just health. This is not just true, but glorious. Yet this does not give us reason as Christians to be nonchalant about whether hardship comes. We are to guide our actions and desires by God’s will of command, which is to seek our nation’s (and the world’s) welfare, just as God commanded Jeremiah: “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare (Jeremiah 29:7).
Our leaders need extraordinary wisdom as they determine the most effective way to deal with the current tumultuous situation in the financial markets. This weekend is especially significant as Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, and congress flesh out the details of the bold plan that is needed to end this situation.
Like I said - go read!
Also of note today, the Anchoress has an excellent article this morning (last night?) about why our financial system nearly collapsed:
Yes, I know is voice is grating, yes I know he can be too rude by half on his program, but
take the time to listen to this audio of last Friday’s Mark Levin show. (H/T Ace) You want the breakdown of what happened and why it happened? Levin gives it to you in plain language. Listen to it, even if you really don’t want to. I didn’t want to, but it’s important that we understand what happened, here, historically, that we don’t simply succumb to spin. Look past Levin’s politics and his cranky yelling, and just get the history.
Another worthwhile read for today.
(POST WILL BE UPDATED ALL DAY WITH NEW LINKS)
PRIDE OF PLACE ADDITION: To celebrate Bill Whittle's return (God willing) to regular writing, I quote from his essay in National Review Online:
And, finally . . . what of John McCain? I’ve read many comments about his speech being a disappointment. I don’t know how it looked or played from the floor. But I know how it played from my Los Angeles living room. I believe — and we’ll know soon enough if I’m right — that John McCain did something Thursday night more powerful and astonishing than Sarah Palin did the previous evening. Sarah stole Obama’s glamour. McCain stole his message. (Granted, that may not be a lot, apart from the glamour, but it was all Obama had left.) {emph. mine - Kat}
(We now return you to the original post)
A couple of confessions, first - as I was a little worried about how Gov. Palin would do on Wednesday night, I was also worried about how McCain would do last night. Saracuda did so well, and was received so enthusiastically that, combined with her pitbull determination and her novelty, I wondered how Sen. McCain would match her.
Well, Maverick did just fine - just fine, indeed!
Which leads to my second confession: I only watched the speech this morning on CSPAN's YouTube channel. Although I wasn't sorry to miss what I hear were some real yawner speeches last night, I did want to watch McCain - but, as they say, the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak: I was asleep by about 9:45. Ah, well...
But I watched the speech this morning, and I was very optimistic because of what my blog-brother, Mike, has passed along in the e-mail list (gotta check the e-mail first thing in the morning, LOL) and then posted on his blog:
We’d heard the story over and over this week. How he was shot down. How he was tortured. How he never fully healed. So I didn’t expect to hear it again from him.
By the time he’d finished his story, I was nearly in tears. And I understood. I understood the Maverick. I understood his value system. I understood his love for America.
By the end, I was ready to scream along with the crowd.
I may have been slow in coming around.
But tonight, I love John McCain.
When I watched the video, I, too, understood. And I can now say, proudly and certainly that
JOHN MCCAIN IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR AMERICA!!
Watch his speech:
I've been an imperfect servant of my country for many years. But I have been her servant first, last and always. And I've never lived a day, in good times or bad, that I didn't thank God for the privilege. [...]
I was in solitary confinement when my captors offered to release me. I knew why. If I went home, they would use it as propaganda to demoralize my fellow prisoners. Our Code said we could only go home in the order of our capture, and there were men who had been shot down before me. I thought about it, though. I wasn't in great shape, and I missed everything about America. But I turned it down.
A lot of prisoners had it worse than I did. I'd been mistreated before, but not as badly as others. I always liked to strut a little after I'd been roughed up to show the other guys I was tough enough to take it. But after I turned down their offer, they worked me over harder than they ever had before. For a long time. And they broke me.
When they brought me back to my cell, I was hurt and ashamed, and I didn't know how I could face my fellow prisoners. The good man in the cell next door, my friend, Bob Craner, saved me. Through taps on a wall he told me I had fought as hard as I could. No man can always stand alone. And then he told me to get back up and fight again for our country and for the men I had the honor to serve with. Because every day they fought for me.
I fell in love with my country when I was a prisoner in someone else's. I loved it not just for the many comforts of life here. I loved it for its decency; for its faith in the wisdom, justice and goodness of its people. I loved it because it was not just a place, but an idea, a cause worth fighting for. I was never the same again. I wasn't my own man anymore. I was my country's.
I'm not running for president because I think I'm blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save our country in its hour of need. My country saved me. My country saved me, and I cannot forget it. And I will fight for her for as long as I draw breath, so help me God.
And that, my friends, draws the stark contrast between the newest American Idol, Barack Obama, and a true American Hero, John McCain.
I am sure that Obama is intelligent, and attractive, and charismatic; his accomplishment in rising to where he is is a testament to the American ideal that a citizen of this great country can do anything, if he or she puts their mind to it.
But Sen. Obama simply does not have the history of sacrifice, of dedication, of endurance and of honor that are the distinctive marks of John McCain's life.
Sen. Obama is too untried, he is too unscarred, he is too unknown. I cannot risk entrusting the safety, prosperity and freedom of this country to him. John McCain, for all the differences I may have with him (*cough* McCain-Feingold *cough* Amnesty for Illegal Aliens *cough*), is a man who has PROVEN with blood, sweat and tears, that he is worthy to lead this great country and to protect and serve the Constitution to the best of his considerable ability.
John McCain has the determined steadfastness, courage, and character required of a President of the United States.
Here are more links to read:
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He's my favorite on-line essayist, and I must admit that sometimes I get truly angry with him... because he never posts enough! Weeks - months! - will go by and the will be nothing. Nothing* whatsoever to feed my love of country, nothing* to encourage me to try and uphold the rugged individualism that is the foundation of this great country, nothing* which smacks me in the face with how blessed we are to live in this great country.
It can be quite depressing. As a matter of fact, it can be similar to a great love, unrequited...
But, it appears that Bill Whittle may - MAY! - be writing again.
All right. Maybe it's not his long, detailed and exhaustive tours-de-force... But, if National Review can get Bill Whittle writing again on a regular basis - I'LL TAKE IT!!!
*"nothing" of course, meaning "nothing written by Bill Whittle"
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Obama is not ready for prime time - what the heck is he doing, spewing this kind of pap?!
Democrat Barack Obama took his presidential campaign today to the region with Virginia’s highest unemployment and vowed to work to improve lives of middle-class workers
“I’m not going to say all of the jobs in Martinsville are going to come back if I’m elected president,” Obama told about 300 invited guests - most of them blue-collar workers - gathered at a community college.
“I’m not saying the schools will be fixed,” he said. “What I’m saying is that I’m going to wake up every morning thinking about you.”
Oh, how sweet! [pauses while everyone coos "Awwww!"] While he's raising our taxes, while he's pandering to terrorists, while he's supporting infanticide, he'll still be thinking about Martinsville every morning. My, that's so... comforting! So... inspiring!
Yeah. Right. You want to know what he's gonna be thinking? He's gonna sit up in bed at the White House every morning, have a good stretch, and think
I can't believe those schmucks actually bought it!
Vote NObama - because if hope ain't teamed with sweat and guts, it's just an empty suit of hot air.
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(UPDATE: Ooops - fixed the wee typo in the title)
LOVE this guy! Love him, love him! He's conservative, he's Republican, he's awesome!
(WARNING: the language is not always safe for work... So if Mom and her friends stop by and then click through to his videos - YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!)
Here's a sample:
Virginia Beach has lost one of their honored sons.
May God comfort his family and friends, and may He continue to bless and guide the men and women who stand against evil.
God bless you and keep you. May He honor your service and guard your family.
I was brought up to honor and respect police (and I still do!) and to believe that I should do my civic duty and offer what appropriate assistance and information they might require. Heck, I grew up when the police were often derisively called "pigs," and Mom had a bumper sticker that I love to this day:
I LIKE PIGS
Pride. Integrity. Guts. Service.
So it is with a definite sense of shock that I post these two videos, and am now basically determined that the only words which shall pass my mouth in a police interview are "I'd like a lawyer, please."
*sigh*
Good boy! Glad to see you express these sentiments, President Bush:
As Cassy Fiano, over at Wizbang, says:
This sums up, in a nutshell, the difference between Republicans and Democrats. Republicans usually believe that Americans are smart enough to run their own lives; Democrats don't. Republicans usually think that Americans deserve to keep their own money; Democrats don't. Republicans usually think that Americans will lead their lives perfectly fine without government intervention; Democrats don't.
Which is why, although I'm disenchanted with the majority of Republicans in office these days, I could never, ever, EVER be a nanny-state-we-know-better-than-you-give-us-your-money-so-the-government-can-help-you DemocRAT.
No due process, no warrant, no just cause, no accountability.
I'm very glad I wasn't there.
But folks, this is why we have the Second Amendment, this is why it is an individual right: because men are not angels, and governments turn too easily into police states. The New Orleans area got a small taste of what it's like to live in a police state when their guns were being taken without reason and when the police had no desire to obey the law - or wanted to obey unconstitutional laws.
When the police act like thugs, when law-abiding citizens are treated like criminals, that's when the Second Amendment stands in the way. That's when we return to the Declaration of Independence:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. [emph. mine.]
Kittipurrs to the Puppy Blender for the video.
--- I posted this last year from the year before, and it was well received. And so I post it again in hope that it lifts up someone's spirit and reminds them of the foundation of this great country on its birthday. Here is the wonderful mix that Alton, made for me two years ago. He'd asked me to record this post, and then he added music. Listen or read - but enjoy either way!
04 July, 2008 - I've made some minor edits, so the audio version won't match exactly with this written version. Have a blessed and safe celebration of our Independence!
Two hundred thirty two years ago, a group of men - men of influence, wisdom, and courage - gathered together to sign a Document and birth a Nation:
IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
And
so began the war for our Independence, a war where we threw off the
stifling apron-strings of our Mother, Britain, and began our journey of
discovery. The War was long, and fraught with set-backs, disasters,
tremendous hardship, and discouragement. But through it all, one man
held true to the ideal and fought with dogged determination to keep his
army and his new country from giving in.
General George Washington. He was not necessarily a brilliant man, but he was honorable and resolute. He had been given the duty of defeating the British and winning the War, and he pursued his orders with unflinching persistence.
And in October of 1781, the British General, Cornwallis, surrendered at Yorktown, VA.
The United States of America was free.
But freedom doesn't come easily. The States had adopted the Articles of Confederation in early 1781. The Articles gave the States many sovereign powers, and any changes to the Articles had to be approved by nine of the thirteen States. Federal power was practically non-existent: it couldn't raise taxes, it couldn't regulate trade, it couldn't stop States from printing their own money.
With authority to act scattered throughout the States, and an anemic central government, America threatened to dissolve into a group of bickering little provinces. The States had their own armies, their own international ambassadors, they argued over interstate trade, the justice system left quite a bit to be desired. In other words, it was a bit of a mess!
In 1786, after much unrest and disputes among the States, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton petitioned that the Constitutional Convention convene to write a new Constitution which would strengthen and unify our young Nation. The man the Convention elected to preside over this process was none other than George Washington, the man all Americans look on as our First Father. General Washington was reluctant - he had recently lost his brother, and he preferred to remain at Mount Vernon, managing his lands. Finally, however, he accepted the duty, and made his way to Pennsylvania.
Under
his calm influence, eventually each of the States made compromises and
came to agreements, negotiated the power of the Federal Government and
State Governments, outlined the authorities of the branches of the
Federal Government, and placed the ultimate power of Government firmly
in the hands of the People. The first draft was accepted in August of
1787 after months of wrangling and debating. Five weeks later, on
September 17th, the convention dismissed, and the Constitution went to
the States for ratification. It wasn't until July of 1788 that the
Convention received word that the ninth State, South Carolina had
ratified the Constitution.
Finally, enough States had accepted the Constitution to begin to implement its laws. Of course, there was further debate about the Bill of Rights, which were passed by a total of three quarters of the States by late 1791, but now America had her "supreme Law of the Land," which began:
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Thus we began to work out this fine balance between the Power and Authority of the People, and that of the Government. Men and women have stepped up to serve our country in war and in peace throughout our 230-year history. Elected officials, military, police, firemen, medical personnel, charity organizations, human rights groups, and so many more have furthered the cause of Freedom and Liberty in our country.
But for me, no group deserves our honor and our respect more than the men and women who serve her in our Armed Forces. Each man and woman who enters the military takes this oath:
...I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same...
Our men and women do not swear to a particular leader. They are not members of a cult of personality. They swear to uphold the Law, and the Supreme Law of the United States of America is the Constitution. At this time, they are engaged in combat against an enemy that hates everything America stands for, and unfortunately, some of those enemies are here at home. As civilian citizens, we owe it to them to honor their service and to protect the freedom, independence and dedication to duty which our Founders bequeathed to us.
Freedom isn't free, and the Tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what the Fourth of July means to me. "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," "We the People," and "I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same." I would hope that each citizen of this beloved country would rededicate themselves to the principles of our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution and work together to keep America strong and just.
Happy 232nd birthday, America! I love you dearly, and pray that God will continue to bless and guide you. I pray that you will always be that "shining city on the hill," a light and example to the rest of the world of Freedom and Liberty.
Happy birthday!
UPDATE: Here are some other extremely worthy posts to read -
But - fair warning! - it's not politically correct, and the language isn't pristine... But this is hilarious! (Thanks to my friend, Tony, who e-mailed the link to me)
I posted this video of Evan Sayet speaking at the Heritage Foundation last March, because I thought it was so insightful and true - and now one of my dear friends of the blogosphere, my beloved blog-brother, Kender, has set up a phone call for me this evening with this witty and astute man.
I am greatly honored, and the K-man also tells me that he's arranged for Mr. Sayet to autograph a copy of his book for me when it comes out. Hopefully, I'll be able to chat intelligently, and then gracefully allow Mr. Sayet to get back to his busy schedule ;-)
Folks, we're in for some hard times. Listen to what Charlie Rose and Pete Peterson are talking about - we're either going to have to step up to the plate now, tighten our belts, and exercise fiscal restraint and responsibility, OR our children and grandchildren (probably even ourselves, fellow Boomers) are going to be smacked in the face with a debt we cannot pay...
Our future is in peril... We need to fix this!
Yep. He did. He whacked Skye, just for videotaping an exchange of insults. Sky was not participating, she was only taping, and this cretin lashes out at her! Melanie Morgan has posted that the... male person... who attacked Skye has been identified as
The (alleged) Peace Slapper has been identified as John Meicht , a college professor who taught a course at Widener University last spring.
And here's the video of the, erm, "distinguished professor's" attack:
Class act, dude. Really... stylish. So tolerant, enlightened, loving and peaceful.
Not.
Got this via the Instapundit... PLEASE watch!
America... Buy your flag BACK from the pawnshop! The 4,000 men and women who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan deserve all the support, love, and thanks we can give. Don't let them die for nothing.
Buy back that flag.
The power of God works its way through our lives, visibly and invisibly, no matter what we believe. God can work - He DOES work! - even in the lives of atheists and agnostics to accomplish His purposes.
He can even use a little old lady who is strong in faith to further His Kingdom, and to save a soul...
I would ask my readers to pray for this man that Mrs. Jacoby met. Pray that God's Word reached down into his soul and brought forth new life. Pray that God would work His will in this man so that he becomes a strong witness to the glorious, transforming power of the God Who Saves.
And then turn right around and praise God for a little old lady who stood firm in her faith, and wielded the Sword of the Spirit like a true warrior!
(Kittipurrs to the Evangelical Outpost - and if you're NOT reading his weekly "33 Things," you're missing out!)
Not that I'm surprised; I saw this as inevitable once Thompson crapped out:
...John McCain swept all four states voting Tuesday and clinched the GOP nomination, leading Mike Huckabee to drop out of the race. With his victories, McCain reached the 1,191 delegates needed to ensure he becomes his party’s nominee.
*sigh*
My blog-brother, Michael, has this to say:
So to my friends in the “I’ll never vote for John McCain” camp, all I’ll say is “Go now and die in what way seems best to you.”
But as for me, I’m joining the McCain camp.
He wasn’t my first choice. But the remaining choices, Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, are simply unacceptable.
OK. You're right.
But I'm still gonna bring my airsick bag to the polls in November...
The Father of our nation, a man of humility, integrity, and deep faith. Indeed, he was a blessing to our fledgling country, and set a high standard for all who followed him.
First in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in the humble and endearing scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate and sincere— uniform, dignified and commanding—his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting. . . . Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues. . . . Such was the man for whom our nation mourns.
How far have we fallen from the foundations our godly forebears gave to us! I pray that God will somehow have mercy on America and raise up sound leaders who will help us return to the principles which birthed this land.
Happy birthday, President Washington!
Today would have been Ronald Reagan's 97th birthday. He was a good man of integrity and courage, a man with a moral vision who wasn't afraid to stand for what it right and good and true. Yes, he had faults (who doesn't?), but his grace and easy humor paired beautifully with his character and humility and gave America a President worthy of leading this blessed country.
Ladies and gentlemen, I miss Ronald Reagan and the legacy and values for which he fought. But we don't need another Reagan, and we ought to stop looking for one. What America needs is a man (or woman) of character, integrity, honor, and courage who isn't Reagan but simply... himself.
Yes, that person will be standing on the shoulders of a giant - of many giants! - but Reagan's qualities didn't start with him, and they are not unique to him. Men and women of his caliber used to be all around us; where are they now? If conservatives want to return this wonderful country to the foundation of liberty and freedom and limited government, DON'T LOOK FOR ANOTHER REAGAN.
Look for a person of integrity, both in public and private life. Look for a person of courage, who can stand for what is right, even when the opposition is overwhelming. Look for a person who can speak the truth clearly and forcefully, but who can also laugh at themselves. Look for a person who is gracious and humble, who remembers and appreciates those who have given them support and encouragement. Look for a person who is optimistic, who loves this country and believes in the potential of our citizens. Look for a person who is thoughtful, who reviews the facts and can listen to and accept different opinions before making a decision. Look for a person who can make decisions with confidence, and without excessive concern for what the world thinks. Look for a person who can own up to a mistake, and make an apology without passing the buck.
Reagan was a good man. He was a good president. But he's dead; let him enjoy his well-earned rest.
We don't need another Reagan. All we need is another person of honor, courage, and integrity.
(But, because he had great ideas, I'll post a video and transcript of his speech, "A Time for Choosing," below the fold...)
Who to vote for?
I mean, I told an RNC caller just two months ago that the Republican Party could just kiss me goodbye if either Guiliani or McCain were the nominee. Guiliani, thankfully, has now made that point moot (unless he's a VP nominee *shudder*), but McCain looks to be the favorite at the moment.
Huckabee is all wrong; on the unlikely chance that he did win the White House, I truly think he'd be an embarrassment to Christians (rather like Jimmuh CAHtuh). Ron Paul, while he has a lot of good conservative principles, is really unelectable and I cannot abide some of the dreck surrounding him about 9/11 and the War on Terror. Romney? A "successful" Republican in a state that's so liberal they pass blue urine? I dunno...
I certainly can understand with Ann Coulter's assertion that she'll campaign for Hillary if McCain wins the Republican nomination; Clinton would certainly provide someone for Republicans to rally against... But I think that that argument really isn't sufficient. Besides, I'd rather vote FOR something... Yet, the need to vote against another corrupt Clinton in the White House is a possibility...
*sigh*
Frankly, I'm sick of the whole line up - on BOTH sides.
So at the moment I believe I'm firmly in the "They're all self-serving liars, and a lot can happen between now and November, so I'm throwing up my hands in intense frustration and waiting until October."
But, I swear, if I end up voting for McCain, I'll be slinking into the voting booth wearing stealth-clothes and carrying an airsick bag...
This is a post from March 27, 2007. I've been more and more irritated with the Republican party in general, and Bush's latest stupidity concerning the gun ban in D.C. is yet another burr under my saddle...
I'm far too tired with the lack of character displayed by members of my former party. I'm disgusted with the fact that they exhibit little to no moral fortitude, neither do they appear to care about conforming to the founding principles of our country.
So, I'm done with them.
Now, Democrats, don't start crowing with joy because your party isn't any better! Your representatives seem pretty rife with self-serving corruption, too, and I'm tired of having to choose between the pot and the kettle.
Therefore, I'm now calling myself a Christian Conservative. Note the order of that: Christian is first. My first allegiance is always to my risen Lord and Savior, and I cannot endorse any candidate who does not live according to a biblical moral code, who does not keep to the highest standards of integrity and honor.
First off, if you're "pro-choice," I want nothing to do with you. I will not cast my vote in favor of anyone who supports the state-sanctioned murder of innocents. Abortion is an abomination in the sight of God, and a terrible, black stain on our country's conscience. Any candidate who wants my support must believe firmly in the sanctity of life and have a record to prove that they will fight for that position. I want a candidate who is unabashedly against Roe v. Wade, and outspoken in favor of its reversal.
Secondly, I want an honest candidate. I want a man or a woman who strives for openness and integrity in every area of their life, personal and public. I understand how mistakes can be made - none of us are perfect - but mistakes should be dealt with immediately, with full disclosure and proper apologies accompanying appropriate preventative measures for the future. I don't want any mealy "Well, if you were offended, I'm sorry" apologies, I want "What I said/did was wrong and unacceptable. I take full responsibility, and I will not do that again. I apologize."
I want a candidate with fortitude and perseverance. I want follow through. I want a candidate whose handshake is a guarantee of a done deal. I want a candidate who knows he or she is my employee, who will use my tax dollars responsibly, honestly and transparently. I want someone who remembers what it's like to be a typical citizen, with little access to the "halls of power" or mansions and private jets. I want someone who honors and upholds our laws, and does not exempt himself from them.
I want a candidate who loves this country and believes in its foundational goodness. I want this man or woman to be dedicated to protecting its citizens and our borders. I want our military to be cherished and supported, and directed with wisdom and shrewdness.
I want this candidate to understand that our Founding Fathers were intelligent men who did not write in parables. Our Founding Documents were written in clear English, with documented interpretation and discussion as to their meaning, and the current "dynamic translations" of the Constitution shame and insult our Fathers.
I want a candidate who is color-blind. I do not want any special rights for any ethnic group: either you are qualified to do a job, or you're not - skin color has no bearing on the issue. I want a candidate who works towards encouraging people to take responsibility for their own lives and actions, to stand on their own feet. Welfare and programs like it should be reserved for people who truly need the assistance, and not those who simply have no motivation. I want a candidate who has practical intelligence, however: if one group of people is statistically far more likely to blow up planes, trains, schools, banks, etc., then that's the group our law enforcement officers should focus on.
Finally, I want strong Christian candidates. I want people who go to church on Sunday and read their Bible every day. I want devoted followers of Christ, who take up their cross daily to follow their Savior. I want the humble, servant's attitude of a disciple of Christ. I want them to display a compassion and fortitude similar to Jesus, and I want them to be bold in calling evil by its name.
These are tough standards, and I realize I may have to go with the best available on some - some! - of these points. But if you don't pass on the first test, and don't get at least 80% on the rest, then get out of my face: I want nothing to do with you.
So. Is there anybody out there who can meet my standards? I'm watching. I'm looking.
And I'm hoping and praying...
To the original post I will add that if you don't take our National Security seriously, if you are in favor of benefits and fast-track citizenship to illegal immigrants, then you are a spineless coward who does not truly have the interests of American citizens in mind. On the contrary, you are out to destroy our sovereignty and, yes, I question your patriotism.
Secondly, our government sent our troops into Iraq and Afghanistan. It is now our responsibility to support our military and do all we can to help them finish the job and come home triumphantly. These men and women have volunteered for service, have shed blood, sweat and tears to help Iraq and Afghanistan become free and productive countries. We owe our men and women in uniform the honor and respect of a grateful nation. If you don't stand four-square behind our troops and the job they are doing, then, yes, I question your patriotism.
Finally, if you can't vigorously support tax reform, fiscal responsibility, low taxes, and openness and transparency in all monetary aspects of our legislature, then I not only call you cowardly, craven and anti-American, I call you a liar and a thief. I would say that if you wouldn't do it to your dear, sweet Mom, you shouldn't do it to the American taxpayer. Too many of you have proven you're willing to have your Mom roast in Hell so you can have your moment of power and 15-second soundbite, however, so I doubt that will mean much to you.
If the Republican party can't get on board, if they continue to turn away from their base and our values, then I'm looking for a new party. I'm tired of the status quo, I'm tired of business-as-usual, and I'm tired of just settling for the lesser of two evils.
"Here I stand; I can do no other. God help me. Amen!"
Well, sort of... The Marines are coming into town for "Realistic Urban Training," where they will conduct an exercise:
U.S. Marines will conduct reconnaissance and surveillance, then raid a mock terrorist cell during a special training exercise in Chatham Nov. 1-3.
The "Realistic Urban Training," or RUT, exercise is designed to duplicate the kind of situations Marines often encounter in the field, said Capt. Kelly Fushour, public affairs officer for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Lejeune, N.C.
"Any time we can do training off base, it's a good thing," she said." It's training we can't replicate on base."
According to Frushour, about 100 Marines will take part in the three-day Chatham exercise, which is being conducted with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
"Role players" posing as Al Queda terrorists are scheduled to arrive Thursday, Nov. 1, and will be "inserted" in a house in town. [link]
Works for me! Any support and assistance our citizens can give to the training of our armed forces should be offered unstintingly - and maybe we'll have some part in hunting those murderous barbarians down and sending them on to the "72 Virginians" who are waiting for them!
