tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56829612012-01-27T13:25:38.620-08:00“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.comBlogger1951100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-87064452291712754082012-01-20T06:46:00.000-08:002012-01-20T07:38:37.931-08:00

The chattering classes and politicians enjoy offering sweeping pronouncements. I am not immune to this, so I will claim here and now, "mea culpa" for my declarations of principle. I only ask that they be evaluated. One of the disturbing trends of the past century has been the collectivization of people-groups and voting constituencies, at the expense of individuality and true community. The 2012

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-55793767680592843142012-01-12T06:34:00.000-08:002012-01-12T07:34:52.197-08:00

The interminable Presidential campaign continues, with some anointing Romney as the only one able to beat Obama (sounds like the brief flurry of Pro-McCain media until after his nomination in 2008)and Democrats knowing they have nowhere else to go. Our President refuses to set direction, craft workable solutions and negotiate with Congress, preferring a totalitarian populism and endless

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-52516812468951329992012-01-05T14:02:00.000-08:002012-01-05T16:13:12.070-08:00

This week a student texted a question to me, "Dr. Self, is the world going to end in 2012?" The inquirer was a sincere, thoughtful Christian and concerned about the dire predictions of friends, media moguls and spin doctors on the left and right. I answered that all Christians believe in the hope of Christ's Return; however, we are to fulfill our callings well until that Day. As we live in hope

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-21850795387211135372011-12-05T13:57:00.000-08:002011-12-05T18:57:33.653-08:00

December 7, 1941 - "a day that will live in infamy..." President Roosevelt's famous words launched America's participation in a war that would claim millions of lives, reshape empires and usher in the nuclear age. On December 11, Hitler declared war on the USA, even though Roosevelt did not include Germany in the December 8th address to Congress. America was now allied with Great Britain and the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-32613691321842055682011-11-22T14:31:00.001-08:002011-11-23T07:38:06.040-08:00

Halloween is over and the Christmas crush has started. A full year before an election and we are already saturated with political news. The globe is cooling...or warming - it all depends on who you read. Is solar energy a farce or our future? I hope it is the latter. Stay tuned for more bailout buzz as your public servants make fools of themselves. In the Theater of the Surreal, "devout" Roman

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-79029824080443698252011-11-09T09:16:00.000-08:002011-11-15T06:27:22.101-08:00

The global community is awakening from her slumber and discovering that the public troughs are empty. They are not just empty - they cannot be replenished without significant sacrifices. From The USA to Europe, austerity is the rule of the day. How we arrived at this point is well-known. All political parties and public officials, along with a variety of interest groups, from banks to unions,

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-19962992159176850932011-10-14T08:35:00.000-07:002011-10-14T09:23:52.653-07:00

We are just a year away from the 2012 elections. The economy is a mess, our "outreach" to radical Islamicists is a failure and our current President - the least transparent in US history - is losing popularity daily. Republicans still struggle to find a unifying leader who will galvanize the base and appeal to non-partisan, thoughtful people. The EU is struggling, China is gobbling up all the oil

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-56040961286228807172011-10-10T11:14:00.001-07:002011-10-10T12:07:37.513-07:00

There are remarkable similarities between the Tea Party Movement and the Occupy Wall Street protests. Yes, there are cavernous differences as well, but both movements are touching important public nerve endings. First, both groups are suspicious of "the machine." For Tea Party adherents, the machine is an over-bloated, under-accountable, out-of-control federal government. Critical Constitutional

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-28308967393057926592011-09-23T13:56:00.000-07:002011-09-26T11:50:46.671-07:00

The proto-state of Palestine, held together by a coalition that is ambiguous at best toward peace with their neighbor Israel, has made her bid for UN recognition. The process is a bit akin to Roman Catholic sainthood, except that the Vatican has a more objective process. The USA is obligated to veto such a move, even though President Obama has staked his world reputation and his Nobel Prize for

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-35298085265623231272011-09-12T12:44:00.000-07:002011-09-12T13:50:21.539-07:00

At the request of friends, I am transcribing some thoughts from another work to this online forum. I am concerned that we approach future relationships between Christians and Muslims and Americans and Muslims (they are different, with America's diversity and our Constitutional guarantees of liberty of conscience and religion) with thoughtfulness. Not all readers share my religious convictions;

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-59202617732655474972011-09-11T14:25:00.000-07:002011-09-11T15:08:21.095-07:00

As we pause and remember the events and victims of 9-11-2001, we have an opportunity to recapture some of the courage and unity that marked the labors of our first responders and the spontaneous expressions of the American people. This unprecedented tragedy opened a new chapter of global warfare, awakening America and the West to the pervasive threat of radical Islam. We need to celebrate our

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-316103818408611432011-08-30T19:12:00.000-07:002011-08-30T19:58:10.246-07:00

My friends on the Left have demonized the Tea Party movement, rendering anyone connected with these groups ignorant, reactionary and the enemies of all that is noble and progressive. Some of my friends on the Right assail any advocate of environmental oversight or national medical care as anti-American and at least quasi-socialist. Amidst all the polemics, we have a paralyzed economy, mounting

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-87118368149204619682011-08-11T07:10:00.001-07:002011-08-19T11:41:05.147-07:00

Our current economic crises - yes, they are plural and global - stem from many factors. Bad government policies and processes for more than 50 years, unethical and unthoughtful business decisions and woeful strategic thinking have created this tsunami. In the midst of the (programmed) anarchy and polemics, we can miss one very important reality: this situation is reversible in months, not years

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-65495900093114840622011-08-07T15:32:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:08:14.858-07:00

As the USA navigates uncharted economic rapids, there are groups of people that are overlooked in the passions and polemics. I am not speaking of the groups each political party claims as their own. Democrats claim the "poor" and Republicans claim the "small business" community. Tea party activists are marginalized and anyone for universal health care is labeled a socialist. Lost in all the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-42780816460152148502011-07-27T10:17:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:40:29.544-07:00

Watching the current Debt Crisis debate is tortuous for any thoughtful person. Yes, there are real differences in how Democrats and Republican want to spend money - BUT there should be no differences on two goals - a balanced budget and a growing economy. What we have is political posturing, magical thinking and a contempt for Economics 101 and the good faith of the American people. In the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-40559721155433868812011-07-01T08:43:00.000-07:002011-07-01T16:19:21.427-07:00

On this Independence Day weekend we celebrate our freedom, remember a bit of history and eat wonderful food. All of this is good. Even the rather dour founder John Adams called for feasting and fireworks to mark the day the Declaration was ratified and signed by John Hancock (others would sign on August 2). As I consider the history, the contrasts between our founders and today's celebrity

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-59117417629214401892011-06-27T06:35:00.001-07:002011-06-27T17:43:45.996-07:00

My beloved Los Angeles Dodgers filed for bankruptcy today. Mismanagement and contentious divorce proceedings between the owner and his ex-wife have changed the team from a great icon of America's pastime to a sideshow unworthy of a Lifetime Network movie. This is a sad day for baseball and millions of fans. This event by itself is a mere footnote compared to our budgetary, geopolitical and

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-1562395104284441492011-06-17T04:36:00.000-07:002011-06-19T18:10:02.253-07:00

Change is unsettling. Even in our hectic, global-internet world, we want some things to be stable. We hope we can keep our marriages and our friends, our church and community connections and perhaps our favorite barista! We enjoy hearing from fellow high school and college alumni and when we drive past old neighborhoods we instinctively look for landmarks of our history.But changes come.

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-87952065084331533012011-05-31T10:57:00.000-07:002011-05-31T11:41:57.373-07:00

"That's impossible! Never happen. Not is a million years. OK, not in my lifetime."These phrases are uttered daily by well-meaning people. Change is hard. Changing long-held conscious and unconscious thinking is even harder. There are a few people temperamentally wired for change; however even these initiators of innovation have some habits that are hard to break.If we are going to solve some of

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-55282553865846799572011-05-26T06:42:00.000-07:002011-05-26T07:51:49.597-07:00

When we hear the word, "radical" we imagine 1960s hippies, Greenpeace boats or suicide bombers in burkhas. It is sad that this important word has been historically hijacked and used for extremism and fringe movements. The etymology of this word is "radix" or "rooted." For something to be radical not only implies change, but change that is deeply rooted in unwavering principles. As we begin the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-8989666088933007022011-05-19T09:33:00.000-07:002011-05-19T10:08:49.832-07:00

There is no serious movement for democracy in the Middle East. The little bit of liberal/secular opposition to dictatorships is being consumed by Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood. Any regimes that even think of working with Israel or the USA will be subject to protests and violence. Our current Administration is naive at best and self-destructive at worst as it attempts "outreach" to Islamic

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-65636845924934279512011-05-08T16:52:00.000-07:002011-05-09T12:44:29.043-07:00

The death of Osama bin Laden is as close to a"fact" as we can assert. As a historian, I am fascinated by the context and significance of the event for different groups of people. OBL's death is confirmed by his followers, but there are multiple meanings we need to understand. For most Americans, this is a brief moment of payback for the awful attack of 9/11/01 and the taunting messages of a

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-25216482065798887352011-05-01T21:27:00.000-07:002011-05-01T21:52:41.673-07:00

Osama bin Laden is dead. Perhaps this is another historic "end of the beginning" (to paraphrase Winston Churchill) as civilized humankind confronts global terrorism. It is too early to prognosticate all the implications, but we can pause, praise our special forces personnel and take stock of what is needed to see real progress in this conflict.Until the Eschaton, there will be enemies of all that

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-82554845940839216362011-04-21T18:41:00.000-07:002011-04-21T19:56:47.543-07:00

As I join multitudes of Christians around the world in Holy Week reflection and worship, I celebrate the unity of our one, holy, catholic and apostolic faith that expresses itself in many languages, liturgies and locations. From African churches without walls to grand cathedrals a millennium old, people are gathering to remember the great events that are the historical core of Christianity. Jesus

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-52547994183691609772011-03-30T06:47:00.000-07:002011-03-30T07:31:35.770-07:00

In our data-driven, sound-bite (or byte) world, words create worlds of anarchy or community, of mutual understanding or polemical alienation. We hold ourselves hostage to our solipsistic creations, arguing vacuously and wondering why others "just don't get it." In my last essay, I posited that justice is a deep, rich cry from the soul pointing to a universal in human consciousness, a principle I

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-57011155220525624142011-03-25T06:27:00.000-07:002011-03-25T06:56:53.779-07:00

From the Prophet Micah in the 8th century B.C. to current bloggers, "justice" is a primal cry of the human heart. This word is one of the most astounding concepts that makes us more than animals. It is also an abused term, becoming the shibboleth for all kinds of ideologies and political agendas.Is justice punishing the guilty for criminal behavior? Yes, protecting our community is part of

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-25518344686712315312011-03-22T06:34:00.000-07:002011-03-22T06:53:19.955-07:00

The 2011 policies of the Obama Administration can be summarized in one phrase: Hope that things are stable enough economically and globally for re-election next year. I am using the word CEASE as an acronym to expose the paucity of principle and the absence of substance found in current leadership.C = There is no CLARITY in current decisions. Until the recent months, Libya was barely on the radar

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-35239233808862179442011-03-12T07:29:00.000-08:002011-03-12T08:02:16.920-08:00

Current crises present thoughtful people with opportunities for impact as the polemicists of the extremes wear themselves out. I suggest the following for our discourse and decisive action:Let's stop the name-calling. Whether we are conservative or liberal, progressive or libertarian, labeling and hyperbole keep us from actually looking at the issues. As long as we can call someone a Nazi or a

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-69796604403235803852011-03-11T06:33:00.001-08:002011-03-11T06:45:28.789-08:00

The earthquake and tsunami in Japan remind us all that natures' vagaries show no favoritism. Right now thousands of workers and millions of dollars are making their way to beleaguered populations. We are not in control of the waves and winds, but we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this moment.We must pause for prayer, reflection, and generosity. It is also an opportunity

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-61189305353314274492011-03-06T21:40:00.000-08:002011-03-06T22:28:47.201-08:00

Civility is a dying principle in our public discourse. The viral world of blogging and tweeting foments unrefined communication allowing the reaction of the moment to become part of a global conversation. We have thousands getting their news from two comedians and celebrities and politicians issuing threats and using obscenities as a matter of course. Sadly, what is lost is reasoned debate on the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-6866713434757354472011-02-17T06:21:00.000-08:002011-02-17T07:27:05.941-08:00

Local, national and global events assault our senses as we go about our day, consciously working and unconsciously worrying. What is the meaning of the unrest in the Arab nations? Why is the USA going to rebuke Israel at the UN? Will the politicians stop posturing and figure out how to get spending under control? When will we welcome our troops home from inhospitable lands that resent our

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-75765328467284374152011-02-01T08:54:00.000-08:002011-02-01T10:44:56.590-08:00

Thanks to the Wizard of Oz, thoughtful people learn to ask what factors are behind the events, ideas and pronouncements that hourly assault the airwaves, radio frequencies and web world. Let's go behind the veil and look at some current items:"The Exception is the Rule" with Obamacare. We now know that their are more than 700 waivers for those opting out of a law that was supposed to transform

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-17922998187121396502011-01-22T09:55:00.000-08:002011-01-22T10:40:21.310-08:00

As I listen to global and local leaders evaluating problems and proposing solutions, I am arrested by the contradictory rhetoric in our public discourse. My friends on the Left tout "structural issues" such as "capitalism/colonialism" and "poverty" as "root causes" for anarchy and violence, including Islamic militancy. On the Right, I hear shrill calls for "personal responsibility" and "

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-18932966449024046172011-01-10T06:45:00.000-08:002011-01-10T11:07:22.586-08:00

The horrific tragedy in Arizona is being exploited by politicians who want to restrict "violent" rhetoric - and in the process irrevocably change the intent of the First Amendment. Throughout our history, we have confronted directly subversive and violent threats to people and our nation. The Courts have consistently ruled that there are limits to free speech - but very few and only in serious

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-17971941457368687962010-12-22T11:42:00.000-08:002010-12-22T12:14:46.445-08:00

I am heartsick and hopeful as I pen these words. Colleagues and friends have shared tragic stories of emotional and physical pain. At the same moment I am absorbing their concerns, I am happily awaiting the arrival of my adult children for Christmas. My heart is bursting with gratitude for my family and breaking with empathy for some friends. The affections of Christmas have always been

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-72925272979649257502010-12-17T06:30:00.000-08:002010-12-17T07:12:06.826-08:00

When I observe the shenanigans in Washington DC - on both sides of the aisle - I feel like I am living in an M.C. Escher print or a Salvador Dali painting. Nothing is as it seems. We have Nancy Pelosi berating Republicans for adding debt that our children and grandchildren will have to pay back to China. Of course, her leadership only added about $3 trillion to the price tag! We have "

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-60279184936517222322010-12-07T06:22:00.000-08:002010-12-07T06:56:11.602-08:00

We now have a President in favor of tax breaks for all...and the Republicans are again on their heels in the perception game. Add to this the earmarks that even Rand Paul is approving and you have the pathway to a Democratic victory in 2012.The lack of courage by both sides is appalling. Democrats will not fight for their constituencies and the newly-elected Republicans seem unwilling to make the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-63336506198737232222010-12-02T05:49:00.000-08:002010-12-02T06:12:44.979-08:00

As we enter the Advent Season and attempt some moments of normality ("normalcy" was a new term coined by then-Presidential candidate Warren G. Harding in 1920), I offer the following reflections on current events:Wikileaks is not a crusade for righteousness, but one more group of arrogant elitists with an agenda. They are happy to expose any and every national leader, but will not reveal the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-70465502565748106022010-11-16T10:37:00.000-08:002010-11-16T13:41:59.671-08:00

Somewhere in-between the cynicism of fatalists and the Pollyanna sentiments of too many greeting cards is the sentiment of gratefulness. Let's strip away the cliches of "an attitude of gratitude" and the moronic, "it's all good" and choose to be grateful for the abundance of blessings that most of us take for granted.Before sharing these simple sentences, it is wise to affirm that all of us have

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-66119421577612398612010-11-01T06:42:00.000-07:002010-11-01T07:22:28.470-07:00

On November 3, all the newly-elected and the survivors of the recent political battles must wake up from the parties and realize a sobering fact: the way forward for America is hard. The difficulties have been exacerbated by Obama's policies, but neither he nor one political party are responsible for our current state. Our challenges have been a century in the making, with the last forty years

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-28148793548636315522010-10-20T19:36:00.000-07:002010-10-20T20:38:37.809-07:00

As we approach the 2010 midterm elections, prognostications are everywhere about the extent of the Republican gains and the fractures in the Democratic Party. Of course, two years ago, the Republicans were deeply divided and the Democrats were unstoppable behind their leader of hope and change. Politics is a fickle enterprise and the patience of the electorate is not endless. The Obama message of

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-36205184827518556142010-09-18T09:37:00.000-07:002010-09-24T08:11:00.166-07:00

It is fun to read bumper stickers. My travels take me to many locales across America, and I am intrigued by the language of these ubiquitous message boards. From the Left - usually plastered on old Volvos or new hybrids - I read phrases such as, "Dissent is the purest form of freedom" and "subvert the dominant paradigm" and even the oxymoronic, "pro-child, pro-choice."From the Right, there are

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-72074685287683876122010-09-11T18:16:00.000-07:002010-09-11T19:05:30.091-07:00

Today is the ninth anniversary of...my oldest son's 18th birthday. As we were preparing to celebrate this milestone, multiple attacks stunned our nation and forever changed how we see September 11. There are so many images and words filling the media spaces that I wondered what I could add to the mix. I dedicate this essay to my oldest son Michael, for whom 9-11 will always cast a shadow over his

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-84546178209880243912010-09-08T14:53:00.000-07:002010-09-08T15:43:46.926-07:00

A fringe, small-church pastor wants to burn the Muslim scriptures, the Qur'an. Burning the Qur'an benefits only extremists, and hinders the cause of dialogue and peace.Palestinian leader Abbas' vision of a new state includes no Israeli political or security presence. On the surface, this sounds reasonable, until one realizes that neither Abbas nor any other Arab leader has given unconditional

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-69825666678638310482010-08-27T07:29:00.000-07:002010-08-27T08:26:51.209-07:00

AIDS activists are protesting the unsafe sex practices of Larry Flynt's pornographic films. They argue that the failure to show condom use will encourage dangerous practices that allow AIDS pathogens to spread.Concurrent with these protests are feminist concerns about the dehumanizing and objectifying consequences of pornography for female dignity and equality. Some of these same groups are

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-71095892376935041762010-08-22T16:01:00.000-07:002010-08-22T16:27:47.822-07:00

We live is a world of data points, sound bites (or bytes?), twitter updates and instant analysis. What is lacking is the rare combination of compassion and critical thinking, the love and respect we need if we are going to solve the global and local problems we confront.In recent days I have been deeply disconcerted by the behavior of two Christians - one from the Left and one from the Right side

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-91052385742320688262010-08-18T16:07:00.001-07:002010-08-19T07:31:46.034-07:00

Amidst the final days of a surreal summer and in anticipation of the election propaganda about to be unleashed, I offer the following observations for my thoughtful audience to contemplate:It is easy to caricature and criticize, but difficult to think critically and act wisely.In the absence of solutions, attack your opponents character and motives. It will veil your superficiality.The world is

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-84322686769926263352010-08-11T15:36:00.000-07:002010-08-12T08:32:10.827-07:00

America and France have a long love-hate relationship. French help was critical in our War of Independence. Many Americans were initially excited about the anti-monarchical tendencies of the nascent French Revolution in 1789. The implosion of the secular left and the rise of Napoleon cooled affections for awhile. America's help in WWI and WWII is appreciated and resented by French elites, who

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-40970857981465087142010-07-19T12:08:00.000-07:002010-07-19T18:48:36.293-07:00

Recent Obama speeches in Egypt and China have hailed "freedom of worship" as an important universal right. At first glance, this seems to be a simple reiteration of the best in American social thought. I applaud the sentiments that champion freedom, but I am appalled at the subtle and subversive change in language from "freedom of religion" to "freedom of worship." Our founders understood that

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-70902157654014653182010-07-13T11:01:00.000-07:002010-07-13T12:14:55.475-07:00

When times are tough, people look for scapegoats. Today the Obama Administration leaders are lambasting the racist elements of the Tea Party Movement and encouraging African-Americans to be more "intense" in their demands for better health care, education and job opportunities. For an Administration billed as "post-racial" we are seeing familiar agitprop and a refusal to condemn the hate speech

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-80698878854472340622010-06-30T21:04:00.000-07:002010-06-30T21:40:02.750-07:00

For seven years I have commented on current events, waxed philosophical about creative and disturbing trends and tried to be a faithful "messenger to the thoughtful." As we celebrate America's 234th birthday, we are watching the erosion of ideals and institutions that have held our experiment in liberty together. I will continue to try to move the conversation from anger to action, from

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-83957761581420299242010-06-23T02:41:00.000-07:002010-06-23T03:36:59.361-07:00

Freedom is fragile. Throughout history, most people have lived in cultures or under regimes where blood, religion and soil have determined beliefs and behavior with no room for dissent. In the past 500 years, Judeo-Christian and Enlightenment affirmations of full liberty of conscience, private property and personal virtue have brought enormous good to the world.As the US Constitution was framed

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-39922500153091704622010-06-18T14:14:00.000-07:002010-06-18T14:34:32.586-07:00

Today at Acton I attended a lecture by Mustafa Akyol, a writer for the the Turkish Daily News and author of the forthcoming book, The Islamic Case for Freedom. He represents the most hopeful thinking I have heard from Muslims who seek to live peacefully alongside people of all faiths or none. Akyol uncovered some important historical sources of progressive Islamic thought, from the seventh to the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-45107167349276975212010-06-17T19:15:00.000-07:002010-06-17T20:17:34.029-07:00

Today at the Action Institute I attended excellent presentations on a range of topics, from evangelical environmental and social ethics to the challenges of globalization and the need for ethical entrepreneurship as one key to liberating persons from poverty. The insights and principles were important and well-stated and I will be using this knowledge immediately in classes and communication.

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-19242705802245846712010-06-16T19:33:00.000-07:002010-06-16T20:37:00.437-07:00

This week I have the honor of being a Kern Foundation Fellow attending a special conference at the Acton Institute/University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The focus is the integration of Christian faith and leadership in economic, political and social arenas. All too often there is a disconnect between Sunday's religious experiences and the pressures of commerce and community Monday through

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-76403691061001253732010-06-11T08:41:00.000-07:002010-06-11T10:16:47.733-07:00

In recent dialogues with social activists, I am noting a disturbing trend among those who identify themselves as Christians and 'post-conservatives." There is a visceral fear among many devout people at being identified with the Right. This disdain for conservatism leads them to take positions they claim are compassionate and nuanced, while in fact they are violations of their deepest moral

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-60017791268049072712010-06-07T14:01:00.000-07:002010-06-07T14:31:52.198-07:00

There are two special days in the past weeks that the current Administration completely ignored. It seems that far too many Americans, awash is apathy, ignored them as well. The first is Memorial Day and the second is the anniversary of D-Day, June 6. Barack Obama is the first President to not attend the service at Arlington National Cemetery. He decided vacationing in Chicago took precedence

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-31906823944528726982010-06-01T14:00:00.000-07:002010-06-01T20:32:34.281-07:00

My friend Adam Cintz died yesterday at the age of 99. His life was full and his family was near. He survived two wives and was a success in business and in the community. He was a cheerful presence to all and until recent months continued to read voraciously and tinker in his workshop. All of us will miss him deeply and my heart goes out to the family as they cope with their loss. His sons and

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-15323533418645356522010-05-17T17:31:00.000-07:002010-05-21T08:52:48.830-07:00

Forty years ago, newly ex-Beatle John Lennon captured the attention of the world with his evocative, quasi-Marxist utopian ballad, Imagine. He cried for a world free from borders, nations, possessions, religion and war with everyone "living for the world." The song remains a favorite of folks over 50 and all who share its collectivist and globalist sentiments. Though I do not share the late

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-52648248032204549552010-05-07T08:08:00.000-07:002010-05-07T09:48:53.019-07:00

Today is the 7th of May in the year of our Lord 2010. I live in the USA, a republic with more than 300 million citizens from around the world. I love the vast landscapes and tall skyscrapers. I love the diverse cultural, political and religious communities that make our nation the envy of the world. I am aware of our current problems and the serious challenges to our future. I will continue to

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-87447753406433721592010-04-30T13:29:00.000-07:002010-04-30T13:55:30.783-07:00

The recent furor over the Arizona's decision to enforce federal standards for immigration reveals deep confusion and devastating subversion concerning our national identity. In the name of compassion and social justice, and amidst fears of a police state, Arizona is being boycotted, demonized and harassed for standing up for her citizens. What is often not visible is the hypocrisy of the Right

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-86165124757410613512010-04-19T07:59:00.000-07:002010-04-19T09:24:29.844-07:00

One of the challenges in today's public square is our captivity to "McThinking" -fascination with memorable phrases and sweeping declarations, regardless of their empty content. Pundits on the right love to extol the "magic of the market." and the importance of "family values." Bloggers on the left speak passionately about compassion, tolerance and equity. Meanwhile, millions need work, help with

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-2564274606394103452010-04-16T09:06:00.000-07:002010-04-16T12:24:41.751-07:00

Samuel Adams was the firebrand of colonial opposition to British taxation and one of the key mobilizers for the American Revolution. Between 1765 and 1776 he was the most passionate, radical and uncompromising spokesman for liberty. The British leaders hated him, considering him a lower-class agitator. Fellow-revolutionaries (even family member John Adams) were often put off by his tactics,

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-10318063210151491322010-04-08T09:25:00.000-07:002010-04-08T10:28:02.425-07:00

Governing is more difficult than agitating. Our current leaders, like all their predecessors, are finding the realities of domestic demands and global conflagrations more challenging than the academic and policy papers they serenely composed before their ascent to power. Tea Party Leaders and other aspiring conservatives who "want their country back" need to think deeply about what

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-15780712828429140862010-03-25T06:51:00.000-07:002010-03-25T07:32:28.304-07:00

The current descent into the politics of intimidation and reaction is not serving our nation well. As long as the votes are there, the current administration doesn't give a fig about what the other party or even a majority of Americans think - they know better and they are counting on ignorance and neediness to fuel their agenda. The Republican and Tea Party reactions (not always the same thing)

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-18906467424298654452010-03-23T09:10:00.000-07:002010-03-23T10:24:54.973-07:00

The collectivists have won a Pyrrhic victory with health care. Far from uniting Americans, The Obama Administration has unleashed a new level of histrionics and partisanship. The Chicago-style arm-twisting and pay-offs to drug companies, politicians and federal unions is not what we were promised in 2008. Conversely, the Republicans have failed to offer solid hope to the millions of uninsured and

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-54276450420659969792010-03-10T06:52:00.000-08:002010-03-13T08:30:01.428-08:00

The haunting lyrics and music of "Bring Him Home" in the musical Les Miserables provide the context for consideration of U.S. foreign policy and the deployment of our military around the world. The moment family and friends say farewell to our women and men in uniform, the longing for return is present. We celebrate the courage and sacrifice of those who are in harm's way, while lamenting the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-58083093292374937532010-02-22T06:46:00.000-08:002010-02-22T07:13:38.309-08:00

Why are the Democrats determined to ram through a health care package, regardless of the fiscal impact on anyone who makes a decent wage?One answer: Do it now before the conservative backlash leads to a loss of influence and seats in November.Second - and more nefarious - answer: Do it now before the economy rebounds and people have other things on their mind. Create a dependent class that will

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-15378042732767451532010-02-15T13:39:00.000-08:002010-02-22T06:46:37.549-08:00

The "climategate" news is fueling the "deniers" of global warming (or climate change)and causing environmental advocates to find other ways to raise money for their overhaul of the world economy. Meanwhile, China, India and Russia continue to grow their economies on fossil fuels, thumb their noses at any binding climate agreements and the good people of the USA wonder what to believe. Even

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-32595963752560859392010-02-11T09:12:00.000-08:002010-02-11T10:20:18.482-08:00

"Justice for the oppressed and poor!" shout the "advocates" for "undocumented workers." "Restore the rule of law and deport the hardened criminals" scream the proponents of "secure borders." Meanwhile thousands who have the cash and corporate connections are hired by high-tech firms and millions who are looking for work can not find any. Prisons are overrun with illegal immigrants, while many

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-38973520039660079542010-02-06T07:40:00.000-08:002010-02-08T06:30:45.462-08:00

In his book, Moral Choices, Boston College philosopher Peter Kreeft (author of the hilarious and insightful, Between Heaven and Hell and Jesus Meets Socrates) has a chapter about twelve boxes that Jesus will not squeeze into. Kreeft makes the salient point that Jesus is not Left or Right, and he is not a friend of extreme individualism or communism. I think an authentic pro-life perspective is

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-80674409351036210302010-01-21T10:52:00.000-08:002010-01-21T12:19:06.897-08:00

The glee of Republicans and the scrambling of Democrats for cover after the Senate election in Massachusetts are predictable reactions but bad portents for the future. Scott Brown ran a good campaign and Martha Coackley was in the cross-hairs of an angry, independent electorate. Our problems are so daunting that both parties need to wake up and stop their posturing. Serious public servants need

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-89083594753301376562010-01-18T10:40:00.000-08:002010-01-18T20:07:28.828-08:00

The cries of Haitians are heard around the world and generous private and public aid is making its difficult way to the people. Apart from the foolish diatribes of Hugo Chavez and some stupid words from the religious and secular Right, all people of conscience, regardless of faith or politics, are moved by the plight of the nation. Haiti speaks to all of us. She is the poorest nation in the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-45646277429405541582010-01-10T11:45:00.000-08:002010-01-10T12:37:57.590-08:00

As we look at the year ahead, The political rhetoric will heat up as we move toward the November midterm elections. Democrats will continue to blame the previous administration and try to force their way forward in Congress. Republicans will proclaim themselves the alternative to big, inefficient government and call on the voters to oust the "Beltway insiders" in Washington, D.C.The script is so

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-6337514998166463292010-01-03T16:31:00.000-08:002010-01-03T17:27:27.327-08:00

Today's snow has hushed the land outside my window, creating just the right moment to reflect on the year ahead. Every blog, column, magazine and newspaper has just finished with their ten best/worst of 2009 and their trendy predictions for everything form the economy to fashion for 2010.2010 will be an interesting year, with elections looming, global crises ever-present and most folks hoping

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-25838246208092555712009-12-22T15:54:00.000-08:002009-12-22T16:24:12.087-08:00

I enjoyed the new movie Invictus. Morgan Freeman did a stellar job of portraying the early years of Nelson Mandela's leadership in post-apartheid South Africa. Mandela's willingness to forgive the past and embrace a rugby team that had been a symbol of the oppression for so many is inspiring. Mandea's leadership provides some clues to a better future for our nation. I am not a fan of our current

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-47701426777762804002009-12-13T14:00:00.000-08:002009-12-13T16:07:06.985-08:00

I recently had the honor of spending some time with Dr. Peter Kusmic, one of the world's ecumenical leaders, a scholar and a man known for his peacemaking efforts in the Balkans. Peter is the brother-in-law of Dr. Miroslav Volf, a professor who anchors the Center for Religion and Culture at Yale. Both of these men take the words of Jesus seriously, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-14000528873565850572009-12-04T06:57:00.000-08:002009-12-04T07:17:47.182-08:00

Finally, EU and UN officials are coming clean and speaking of "global management" and "global governance" as the aims of the Copenhagen climate summit. I am not against voluntary international cooperation.I am deeply worried about a new elite "managing" our lives down to our electric meters.China, India and Russia are already, "Nay" on any serious controls over their economies.The EU leaders are

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-24213899638963705412009-12-01T19:38:00.000-08:002009-12-01T21:17:53.790-08:00

Our President is sending 30,000 more soldiers to the same dangerous deserts that Persian, Greek, Mongol, British and Russian Empires could not completely subdue.The small number, coupled with a timeline for withdrawal will not secure freedom for Afghans or safety for the West. What should our policy be?Victory and vigilance.We must strike a decisive blow and destroy the forces of terror and then

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-70790199853061859702009-12-01T12:06:00.000-08:002009-12-01T16:15:21.430-08:00

As a historian, my interest grows as I see commentary on the "New Atheism." The "Big Four" - Dawkins, Dennett, Harris and Hitchens (sounds like British law firm) - have created a stir that stimulates skeptics to be more militant and religious apologists to fire up their debating skills.There is absolutely NOTHING new about any of the ideas brought forward any of these or other atheists. They are

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-3133499180539259952009-11-21T09:26:00.000-08:002009-11-21T15:29:52.815-08:00

On November 20, 2009 I was part of a three-person panel debating the question, "Does God Exist?" against three atheists, two of which are part of the nationally-known circuit of militant naturalists campaigning against religion in general and Christianity in particular. My teammates were Dr. Zachary Manis, a brilliant young philosopher and Dr. Greg Ojakangas, an astrophysicist and neuroscientist.

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-59583840948328462942009-11-10T13:58:00.000-08:002009-11-16T21:42:28.845-08:00

As I prepare for a civil and lively debate with atheist scholars this week, I am struck by the number of paradoxes thoughtful folks live with all the time. As a celebration of being human, let's ponder the following:We are capable of amazing altruism and stunning depravity. In the same village one family rescues a Jewish refugee while another sells her neighbor for a price.We encounter

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-85480163512632415782009-10-29T13:22:00.000-07:002009-10-29T13:55:34.508-07:00

We almost have a Health Care Reform Bill - a massive missive of almost 2000 indecipherable pages that few of our elected officials will even read.Regardless of opinions of the role of the federal government, aren't the following facts disturbing?The bill will not be posted in sufficient time for public review before a vote.The "opt out" option for states is unclear and expensive.Private citizens

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-4275469598200663492009-10-28T09:21:00.001-07:002009-10-28T14:04:57.572-07:00

Today I noticed an item online that signaled another subversion of the moral framework necessary for a free and well-ordered society. Apparently, some new marriage certificates are being issued with the category, "Opposite-Sex Marriage." In our PC world, various elites will simply say that this is a way of equalizing all adult unions, so what is the problem?The problem is that there is a best way

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-78033470965885433632009-10-20T13:36:00.000-07:002009-10-20T14:33:50.418-07:00

I am tired.No, I am not giving up on life, nor have I lost my passion that people "think deeply and act decisively."I am tired of shrillness substituting for soundness and name calling replacing careful argumentation.The critical ideas of Left, Right and Center are being lost in the current climate of in-your-face polemics.Polemical writing is easy: find the weaknesses in opponents' arguments,

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-81603214406517092692009-09-29T14:59:00.000-07:002009-10-06T15:47:19.264-07:00

We live in a dangerous world and history is unkind to leaders who refuse to see the gathering storms. Equivocation in the face of evil spells disaster. Conversely, ideological bigotry can prevent transformational solutions to real issues.The American Presidents of the 1850s showed little courage to create an environment that would lead to the emancipation of slaves and preservation of the Union.

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-16688437001442079842009-09-14T07:58:00.000-07:002009-09-14T08:48:11.012-07:00

It is easy to criticize the foibles of philosophical and political opponents. The current Administration is so out of touch with the Constitution and the deepest values that have forged our nation.It is also easy to list "talking points" about What Must Be Done, as long as the author has no real responsibility to do anything!We must get beyond reaction to substantive action that will actually

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-46132156483247611172009-09-10T09:47:00.001-07:002009-09-10T10:24:59.310-07:00

Last summer before the 2008 Presidential Election, Joe the Plumber made quite a splash with his criticisms of then-candidate Barack Hussein Obama. The attempts to destroy him have failed and Joe the Plumber remains an interesting voice in the public square.Last night we were introduced to Joe the Heckler who rudely interrupted the President's speech on health care reform with two words, "You lie!

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-90548439089932257562009-08-24T14:46:00.000-07:002009-08-25T09:24:22.111-07:00

Exactly 70 years ago (August 22-23, 1939 to be precise), Germany and the USSR stunned the world by signing a non-aggression pact. In a moment, years of animosity had to be covered and new propaganda created to explain this shocking development. Two bitterly opposed totalitarian states working together? How could this happen? This pact sealed the fate of Poland (with the secret protocols dividing

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-29463854919379957552009-08-14T08:38:00.000-07:002009-08-14T11:42:46.009-07:00

My last blog was a polemic against the totalitarian tendencies I see in the current administration. Today I want to offer a way forward for our nation that draws on the brilliance of our Founders and the ingenuity of today's citizens. I still believe that the USA is the greatest experiment in freedom and that we do not have to change our foundational principles to continue this adventure into the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-80575835359083716362009-08-07T13:15:00.000-07:002009-08-07T14:00:30.652-07:00

The Democractic leadership is displaying a palpatable arrogance unparalled in U.S. history. Marginalizing anyone who disagrees with them as "Nazis" and suggesting that the grassroots protests are no more than "astroturf" are tactics designed to hide their grasp for totalitarian power.Let the record show that it is Democrat operative Axelrod who created the "astroturf" genre of public

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-50903737344794505792009-07-12T17:00:00.000-07:002009-07-12T17:20:14.417-07:00

"The sky is falling!" "Doom, despair and destruction!" "Floods and famine!" Such are the histrionics of the current Democratic leadership as they attempt to coerce Congress into passing the worst piece of legislation is U.S. history. Never in our years as a Republic has such a blatant attempt at total centralization of economic and social policy come before us. In addition to being immoral,

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-33799377404412978772009-07-03T13:23:00.000-07:002009-07-03T15:10:49.782-07:00

On July 4, 1776, John Hancock was the only signer of the Declaration of Independence. The rest affixed their names on August 2. For most, the pledge of their, "lives, fortunes and sacred honor." would mean catastrophic loss and, for some, the ultimate price.Our Founders sorrowfully parted with England after years of debate. The intractable King George III and Lord North would not listen to the

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-17127984698993180582009-06-28T08:47:00.000-07:002009-06-28T09:44:11.299-07:00

Every day I wake up and see a facet of my beautiful country marred or destroyed by the current totalitarian regime.I think many of out current leaders want to be compassionate and helpful, but their ideology, philosophy and strategy, if unchecked by principle and reason, will subvert our freedoms and subjugate America to powerful forces beyond her control.Compassion for our current administration

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-12518728750911086282009-06-01T01:41:00.000-07:002009-06-16T10:31:06.479-07:00

Amidst the smiles and self-congratulatory parties among the elites, we are watching our nation slide into the abyss of totalitarianism. Before you assume that this is another "bash Obama" piece and stop reading, I urge you to continue and realize that what I am about to say has little to do with the current President and everything to do with the moral condition of our nation.Totalitarians Left

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-54724659553899392009-05-18T23:52:00.000-07:002009-05-19T00:30:18.980-07:00

The Obama Administration's hubris and ignorance is on full display in its current Middle East policy.The words emanating from Washington sound like academic rants from the 1970s instead of proposals that propel peace forward. Oh, I forgot - the people now in power really believe the radical rhetoric they were fed in class!The USA has been the only even-handed voice in this region since the 1950s.

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-59469924291639712212009-05-10T08:30:00.000-07:002009-05-11T11:43:58.735-07:00

Like many thoughtful conservatives, I am more than disquieted by the policies and principles of the new administration. We are inundated with code words and marketing pitches while our liberties are gradually stripped away. "Equity" and "fairness" now mean unprecedented wealth redistribution. Temporary government assistance is becoming permanent ownership. Prosecuting the previous

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-10713436464151284922009-04-14T23:59:00.000-07:002009-04-15T00:54:29.427-07:00

As I write these words, the clock strikes midnight and April 15th has arrived. Taxes are due.Some dread this day - they owe money and times are tough. Some get excited about getting a check - forgetting that it is their money the government is using.We are witnessing the largest government intervention in our economy in history and the apparent end of any attempt for a balanced budget. But my

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-70870587928449695722009-03-16T07:49:00.000-07:002009-03-16T08:48:21.160-07:00

I have invited the famous Greek philosopher Socrates to speak to the issues of our day. Of course, Socrates will not make too many direct assertions, but his questions always create quite a stir. The transcript that followers was obtained from an anonymous source in the Administration. Remember, all Socrates does is ask questions. He was originally summoned to a conference with other great

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682961.post-44888798496131574072009-02-07T09:59:00.000-08:002009-02-07T11:20:24.735-08:00

With the turmoil in Washington over the current spending bills, it is easy to miss the the serious psycho-political maneuvers by the powers of the current Administration. The critical thinking errors involved in this manipulation of the public consciousness are, "Assuming the Conclusion" and the "Either/Or" Fallacy. When millions do not see it their way, they respond with anger and clenched fists

“Messenger to the Thoughtful"http://www.blogger.com/profile/00967173267657367130noreply@blogger.com2