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I'm PROUD of YOU!

Adjust . . . Adapt . . . Overcome . . . Live . . . Listen . . . Love!

About Me





CONGRATULATIONS to The Dixie Chicks in Their Five (5) Grammy Awards; Truly, a DECISIVE and a MEANINGFUL Victory Over the "Great Decider," the MOST Arrogant American President Since Richard Nixon!

--- The Dixie Chicks

HAPPY Days Are Here AGAIN!!! . . . CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES!!! Our Democracy Has Been SAVED from the Tyranny and Arrogance of Our "Accidental pResident," KING GEORGE II!!!

The DEMOCRATS were triumphant in the November 2006 Congressional elections, and RECAPTURED control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate! Consequently, it is a happy time for all Americans; a time to reclaim our faith from the homophobic Religious Right and the arrogance and incompetence of the fascist triumvirate of Bush-Cheney-Gates!

Now, with the resignation of Rumsfeld, the newly formed Democratic Congress must now move decisively, to impeach and remove from office BOTH George W. Bush and Dick Cheney for crimes against the people of the United States and the world community--for the senseless sacrifice of over 3000 Americans and over 600,000 Iraqis, in a war that the aforementioned troika had no business in starting with a nation that the American people have no issues. Bush and Cheney lied to the Congress and the American people regarding the existence of WMDs--"weapons of mass destruction." In reality, they have been nothing more than weapons of mass destruction to complete the destruction of our democracy begun on December 12, 2000; when the U. S. Supreme Court VIOLATED the U. S. Constitution by SELECTING George W. Bush as President. Our most recent loss has been the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus! Consequently, for all the reasons cited, I prayerfully hope that both Bush and Cheney are impeached and removed from office; and in variance with precedent, are then deported to federal prison!!! Then, the real CELEBRATION can begin!!!





The coffins of brave American servicemen and women that the Bush Administration does *not* want the American public to see; nor does Mr. Bush have the "time" or the "inclination" to attend their funerals!


Please remember the well over 10,000 American servicemen and women who have senselessly and permanently lost legs, arms, hands, and feet; and, whose lives will never be the same, as the consequence of an unconstitutional, undeclared war in Iraq--initiated by a President who avoided service and combat in Vietnam!

Here are a pair of creatively designed videos that captures the rising pain, anger and disgust that the body politic has towards George W. Bush--undoubtedly, the stupidest and the most incompetent American President in modern American history!

Anti-Bush, War, Politics . . . A Girl's Opinion

http://www.youtube.com/v/F7RfCemoMMs

What's "Going On," Mr. President?!

http://www.youtube.com/v/Z94fnwyDKfI


I am a 52 yr. old, divorced, white male. I am an only child and a Marine Corps "brat"; with my father having spent 30 yrs. in the Corps--retiring when I was 16 (1971), but since I went to college and graduate school, I remained a military dependent till I was 23 (1978). I was born with club feet, a dislocated left hip, and the most serious form of spina bifida, myleomeningocele. Happily, it was in the sacro-lumbar region of the spine--minimizing the paralysis. Similarly, I was spared the usual complications--a credit to the excellent surgeons I had at Bethesda Naval Hospital in Maryland in the spring of 1956. Finally, my parents truly supported and believed in me; and this empowered me to live and enjoy a happy life!


Both of my parents were 35 when I was born on September 22, 1955, at the U. S. Naval Hospital in Jacksonville, Fla. They accepted with courage and grace the challenge my disability presented; and "fought" my battles, till I was old enough to do them myself! Indeed, an early theme for me as an impressionable and dependent child that my loving parents gave me was the twin notion that I was a person of value, and, anything that I consciously and carefully resolved to accomplish! The empowerment this gave me was awesome and made a permanent and lasting difference upon a man that through the loving friendship of a very special, beautiful, caring, and creative woman, came to be known as "Puptruck," or Pup, for short!


When I was three years old and living with my mom in Radford, Va. (while my dad was stationed in Korea and Japan), my mother "bucked" the doctors; got an Rx for orthopedic shoes and braces; and subsequently hired a private RN--who, in six weeks, taught me how to walk! And I continued to walk till I was 34 (1989). I then spent seven (7) years in a wheelchair; "topping out" for the first of three times in my life at 350 lbs.


An important part of my high school and college years, was my involvement and participation in the Order of DeMolay. DeMolay is a youth organization for young men 13 to 21 years of age; and was founded by Frank S. Land in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1919. It is sponsored by the Freemasonic fraternity; though a boy does not have to be related to a Freemason to petition for membership. It is named for Jacques DeMolay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templars.

While in college, I served as Master Councilor (President) of the Richmond County Chapter in Rockingham, N. C. In the summer of 1971, I was appointed State Seventh Preceptor (Patriotism) by State Master Councilor Don Etheridge. In the summer of 1972, I was appointed to the highest state office, State Senior Deacon. Then, at the state conclave in Charlotte, I was elected State Junior Councilor (1973). In 1974, in New Bern, I was elected State Senior Councilor at the state conclave in New Bern. Finally, in July 1975, I was elected State Master Councilor (State President) of the North Carolina Association of the Order of DeMolay. Truly, it was a privilege and an honor to serve in this position during the 200th anniversary of the founding of the United States!

What It Means to Be a Freemason

Sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Masons of Massachusetts

http://www.youtube.com/v/yfJVWv5Umc4

Perhaps to best understand and appreciate the profound example of my late father, a Freemason for nearly 53 yrs., had on shaping my life; my interest and involvement in the Order of DeMolay; and my nearly 30 years as a Freemason, an Eastern Star, and a York Rite Mason; and the many other influences in my life, including the decision to become a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A., can be found in the history, symbolic teachings and examples of this--the world's oldest and largest fraternal organization. Reciprocally, my mother has been a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for nearly 60 years. Finally, to any that have wanted to know more about Freemasonry, I believe you will find this video most enlightening and informative.

"Templarios - DeMolay: A Video Montage of Jacques DeMolay, the Knights Templars and His Connection to Freemasonry"

http://www.youtube.com/v/ZdCO-49r7L4


Then, in the summer of 1995, I had two minor surgeries that "paved the way" for me to begin close to six months of physical and occupational therapy. On January 12, 1996, I took my first steps in seven years; and walked for the second time in my life! Similarly, I again began driving a hand-controlled operated car for the second time in my life; and, I took a specially designed driving course for the disabled. And by the spring of 1997, I had lost 145 lbs. (down from 350 lbs.); but, by the close of my therapy in April 1996, I was walking three (3) miles on my steel braces and orthopedic shoes that together, weighed thirteen (13) pounds. Granted, it took me nearly three (3) hours to walk that distance, but, I was walking!

I continued walking till December 10, 2001, when I developed sharp pain in my right ankle (my dominant paralyzed extremity) and, a case of cellulitis in my left calf. Then, I resumed using a wheelchair for ambulation. And on April 18, 2003, my right foot, calf and knee were amputated. Subsequently, I began a medical odyssey of adapting to that change and a colostomy (to facilitate independence), combined with multiple hospitalizations, nursing home stays, home health care, and private pay nursing to heal pressure sores resulting from poor wheelchair seating. Happily, in early June 2007, I have almost achieved total victory!

“For as long as you can remember, you have been a pleaser, depending on others to give you an identity. You need not look at that only in a negative way. You wanted to give your heart to others, and you did so quickly and easily. But now you are being asked to let go of all these self-made props and trust that God is enough for you. You must stop being a pleaser and reclaim your identity as a free self.” --- Henri Nouwen

http://www.youtube.com/v/kZLAvCgV80s

Carole King singing "Tapestry" From the 1st cassette I ever bought, Tapestry; it sums up in a reflective way the eclectic, assimilating, adaptive elements of the human experience that have characterized my life experience of 51+ yrs.



When I received the Degree of a Mark Master (Mason) as part of my receipt into the Royal Arch chapter of the York Rite of Freemasonry, I was obligated to design a mark that would be "my mark". This tradition goes back to the time of operative masons in the building of the great cathedrals. The mark was a way for each mason to say, "This is my work." I chose a Star of David with a cross in the middle. This was to symbolize that as a Christian, I am ever mindful that my roots into the household of faith came through Judaism. May no Christian--whether a Mason or not, ever forget this *important* fact!


The Seal of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, is a Protestant (Christian) denomination that formed at the General Assembly held in Atlanta, Ga., in the summer of 1983, and was the merger of the United Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. and the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. These two branches of the Presbyterian Church split over the issue of slavery; just prior to the outbreak of the American Civil War. Our denominational headquarters is located in Louisville, Ky.

Following my completion of my Bachelor of Arts degree in history from St. Andrews Presbyterian College, located in Laurinburg, N. C., in May of 1976, I began my three-year Master of Divinity degree at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in September 1976. Following the completion of my graduate studies and earning the Master of Divinity degree in May 1979, on July 15, 1979, I was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church in the United States; until the completion of the aforementioned merger in the summer of 1983. The denomination has its European roots with the Reformed tradition--led by John Calvin in Switzerland and John Knox in Scotland. Today, the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. (PCUSA) is the largest and the most liberal Presbyterian denomination. And for many yrs.--even before the merger of the two Presbyterian branches--the PCUSA ordains women ministers, elders and deacons. I have served as Pastor of three (3) churches; and have supplied (preached, conducted the liturgy and administered the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper) in dozens of churches in North Carolina and Mississippi. The motto of my denomination is "reformed, ever reforming."


First Presbyterian Church - New Bern, N. C.

My Home Church, 1969-1979

Founded, 1817


"Any society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve neither and lose both." --- Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), American inventor, journalist, printer, statesman, and a Freemason


Interfaith Prayer for Peace

O God, you are the source of life and peace. Praised be your name forever. We know it is you who turns our minds to thoughts of peace. Hear our prayer in this time of crisis. Your power changes hearts.

Muslims, Christians, and Jews remember, and profoundly affirm, that they are followers of the one God, Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters; enemies begin to speak to one another; those who were estranged join hands in friendship; nations seek the way of peace together.

Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these truths by the way we live. Give to us: Understanding that puts an end to strife; Mercy that quenches hatred, and Forgiveness that overcomes vengeance. Empower all people to live in your law of love. Amen.


The Red Lion Flag of Scotland


Spread love everywhere you go; first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor. . . . Let no one ever come to you without leaving better or happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting. --- Mother Theresa



“Your body needs to be held and to hold, to be touched and to touch. None of these needs is to be despised, denied, or repressed. But you have to keep searching for your body's deeper need, the need for genuine love. Every time you are able to go beyond the body's superficial desires for love, you are bringing your body home and moving toward integration and unity.” --- Henri Nouwen



All living things require love to survive, including ourselves. We must first attend to our own needs for love before we can love others. When we neglect ourselves emotionally, we become emotionally toxic and are not whole enough to give love to others. When we change the inner dialogue from the inner critic to that of the inner companion, we bolster our self-esteem and self-respect. Then we are free to nurture all individuals by being the caring, compassionate, thoughtful and kind beings we truly are. --- Anonymous

The greatest power that a person possesses is the power to choose. --- J. Martin Kohe


http://www.youtube.com/v/XZuq_mMDg20

"Scotland the Brave" and the "Green Hills of Tyrol" played by the massed bands and bagpipes at the Scottish Festival in Estes Park, Colorado, in September 2004. Features the King's Own Scottish Borderers and the Marine Air Land Combat Band.


My father, Kenneth, died 11 days following his 81st birthday in February 2001. He was born and reared in Baltimore, Maryland, and was the eldest of four (4) siblings (3 brothers and a sister), having had two (2) brothers die in childhood of pneumonia. His father was a fireman in Baltimore and served in the U. S. Army in World War I. Dad's father's family, the Southcombs, were a "royal" family from southern England (Devon). His mother's people, the Amsbachers, were German, and settled in southern Pennsylvania. Dad's family was Methodist.


My father served a distinguished career of 30 years in the U. S. Marine Corps; retiring in October 1971, and receiving the Bronze Star with Combat "V," for meritorious service as the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Supply Chief, in DaNang, Republic of Vietnam. He served as a young enlisted man on Henderson Field on Guadalcanal in World War II and again, in defense of South Korea in the Korean War.


Following retirement from the Corps, dad served 12 years in U. S. Government Civil Service--again working as a civilian in naval aviation supply. Interestingly, over 20 years following his retirement from the Marine Corps, my dad was called at home by a lieutenant general from the Pentagon asking him if he would be agreeable to having an annual award and trophy presented bearing his name, to the most distinguished aviation supply Marine. You can learn more about the trophy and award, and its recipients at.:

2005 Kenneth W. Southcomb, Aviation Supply Marine of the Year Award

http://www.flymcaa.org/orgs/mcaa.nsf/0/A9FC902B0DD5636A80256 C0200489AE1?Open..


"Tribute for Marines"

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual &videoid=1091548503

Thanking Those Marines Who Have Given Thier Lives For This Great Nation....THANK YOU..SEMPER FI

In addition to his distinguished military and federal civil service, my father spent a life invested in giving to others and in making a positive contribution to the world. In service to youth, he served as a Boy Scout scoutmaster and, as a Masonic advisor to David's DeMolay chapter. In sevice to God and the Church, my dad was a church school teacher and superintendant; a Ruling Elder; and as Clerk of Session in the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. In service to his fellow human beings, he worked as a volunteer at a community ministry and in a soup kitchen providing food for the hungry and needy! Finally, he was Master of his Masonic lodge; member of the Eastern Star and the Scottish Rite; was presiding officer of all three (3) York Rite Masonic bodies (chapter, council, and commandery). And for this work, he earned the Knight York Cross of Honor, and was initiated into various special Masonic bodies by invitation. And lastly, for the hard work he did with the Order of DeMolay while Pup was "going through the [elected] chairs" in the N. C. Association, Order of DeMolay, he received the Honorary Legion of Merit. Truly, when the Supreme Architect of the Universe called him home on February 18, 2001, Kenneth Whitefield Southcomb was sure to have heard those welcome words.:

Well done thy good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of thy Lord.



My mother, Jean, 87, died in December 2007. Like me, she is an only child. Her father was an engineer with the Norfolk and Western Railroad. Like my dad's father, mother's dad served in the U. S. Army. However, he also served in combat, and was wounded while serving in the 101st Tank Battalion during the Meuse-Argonne offensive; earning the Purple Heart. Mother's mother's family, the Davises, were Scotch-Irish; her father's people, the Geralds, were French. The family was Presbyterian. And, on October 19, 2006, despite my father's "passing" in February 2001, Pup's mother celebrated 63 years of marriage to my beloved father!

My mother spent the productive years of her life in many roles. With dad investing 30 yrs. of his life in the U. S. Marine Corps, this meant good bit of moving! Similarly, with my serious neurological/orthopedic issues--being born 12 yrs. into my parents' marriage, she had her hands full! And except for a brief time when she had pneumonia when dad was in Vietnam (fall 1968), mother drove me to public school every day from grades 1 through 12! Remember too, that in the late 1950s, the 1960s and the 1970s, there were no support groups for the parents of handicapped children, nor were buses equipped to transport the disabled.

Her personal penchants were fine clothes and antiques. At one point, we had an English Manor House dining table. It was exquisite and the carving was phenomenal! She served in the Business and Professional Women; was Chairperson of the Heart Fund; helped distribute food in a soup kitchen; was active in the Order of the Eastern Star and President and Circle Leader of a woman's circle/church in the Presbyterian Church USA.


Financial reasons and the outbreak of World War II kept her from completing her college education; as she went to Radford College (now a university and coeducational) and Assembly Training School (today the Presbyterian School of Christian Education). Curiously, due to her diverse experience in jobs, shortly after my parents began buying a house in 1967, the president of the local community college offered her a permanent teaching position teaching business courses at Master's degree pay. To this day, in a close-knit, family-oriented county where we had no relatives, we wonder how the community college knew about mother's background!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTXRzolPzFo

The incomparable Bette Midler singing the *ultimate* ballad of the essence of true friendship and caring, even, unto death--The Wind Beneath My Wings, from the film of love, devotion and commitment, "Beaches." Dedicated to my friend, "Sunshine" (see her pic). I have tried to be the wind beneath her wings!

On December 1, 2001, I met .., a very special young woman; who continues to bless my life to this day with the gift of her friendship. Upon my giving this petite gal a description of me, she said, "That sounds like a 'Puptruck' to me!" The new pet name "stuck," and I subsequently adopted it as my .. identity!

Today, my Irish bred friend is a busy, active professional woman; with her beautiful, talented, teenage daughter; a wonderful, thoughtful, caring husband; a dog, Buddy; and several cats! Together, they share the joys and perils of family life in the Keystone State! Sunshine . . . Your Pup is so very proud of you; for all that you have done and achieved in the past several years--but, most of all, the endearing and enduring gift of friendship that is best expressed in this thought.:

"Friends have a unique loyalty to one another. This loyalty comes not through a sense of duty in the way one may show loyalty to family, kinsfolk or country. Theirs is born out of love, trust and respect. Nurtured on care and understanding. A perfect loyalty that will survive every hardship and endure the rigorous test of time." --- Stuart and Linda MacFarlane

May a loving and caring God; a God of grace, love and compassion, continue to richly bless you, Beloved One, in all of your noble tasks and undertakings--personally and professionally; and may you always know and fondly remember a man you named "Puptruck," for his constant, consistant and confirming presence and support for you; and his abiding commitment to your happiness and success!


Here is my *special* friend that named me "Puptruck" that Saturday afternoon in December 2001. Because of her cheerful, friendly personality; her strikingly attractive face and her beautifully curled hair; her pleasant voice; her joyful smile; and her gentle Southern approachability (for this Maryland lass), I call her "Sunshine" or "Beloved One." She is married and lives with her daughter in the northeastern United States. Our platonic friendship has survived many changes in *both* of our lives; and points to the forthcoming image, "The heart feels what the eyes cannot see, and knows what the mind cannot understand."

My very special friend who named me "Puptruck," is happily married with her husband and daughter; and together, they live and work in the northeastern United States. She is a busy professional woman, whom I call "Sunshine" or "Beloved One." I am so very happy and proud of her and the enormous joy, peace and happiness that pervades her life today!

Thank you, Sunshine, for teaching your Pup many valuable and important lessons in life--not the least of which is the precious gift of friendship; which sadly, can be squandered and forfeited if we fail to remain focused on what is best for and makes our friend happiest; in enabling Pup to "relearn" the lesson that I learned at the close of my 17-year marriage--namely, that the only person you can "change," is yourself; and perhaps, one of the greatest lessons derived from a genuine, caring friendship: cultivating the gift of attentive listening!

Beloved One, you are truly an amazing human being; and I earnestly thank God for the serendipituous circumstances that has granted me both the privilege and pleasure to be a part of your life; and, during a time of both challenge and opportunity for you, to be a part of the "inner circle" that supported and encouraged you; and hopefully, empowered you to make a decision that has profoundly, personally, and positively, brought you the unspeakable joy and feeling of accomplishment that pervades and permeates your life--and for which Sunshine, Your Pup commends, congratulates and celebrates with You!


May there always be work for your hands to do,

May your purse always hold a coin or two.

May the sun always shine warm on your windowpane,

May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.

May the hand of a friend always be near you,

And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you. --- An Irish Blessing


Indeed, you can read more about my more recent life experiences at my personal website on Earthlink.:

Puptruck's Diversions http://home.earthlink.net/~davidsouth/

Come and "check it out," and learn more about me; ever mindful that I am a "work in progress," who has made gratitude the centerpiece of my life--and, it had much to do with the selection of my chosen profession and the heartfelt passion of my giving, loving, empathetic, and caring heart!



Finally, to those who know me well; and there are a handful of individuals on MySpace that personally know me in "real" time, the following essay, summarizes my philosophy of life. And, as a seminary trained and educated minister, its source may surprise you!

Be Grateful to Everyone by Pema Chodron

If we learn to open our hearts, anyone, including the people who drive us crazy, can be our teacher.

The slogan "Be grateful to everyone" is about making peace with the aspects of ourselves that we have rejected. Through doing that, we also make peace with people we dislike. More to the point, being around people we dislike is often a catalyst for making friends with ourselves. Thus, “Be grateful to everyone.”

If we were to make a list of people we don't like--people we find obnoxious, threatening, or worthy of contempt--we would find out a lot about those aspects of ourselves that we can't face. If we were to come up with one word about each of the troublemakers in our lives, we would find ourselves with a list of descriptions of our own rejected qualities, which we project onto the outside world. In traditional teachings on lojong it is put another way: Other people trigger the karma that we haven't worked out. They mirror us and give us the chance to befriend all of that ancient stuff that we carry around like a backpack full of granite boulders.

“Be grateful to everyone” is a way of saying that we can learn from any situation, especially if we practice this slogan with awareness. The people and situations in our lives can remind us to catch neurosis as neurosis; to see when we’re in our room under the covers; to see when we’ve pulled the shades, locked the door, and are determined to stay there.

There’s a reason you can learn from everything: you have basic wisdom, basic intelligence, and basic goodness. Therefore, if the environment is supportive and encourages you to be brave and to open your heart and mind, you’ll find yourself opening to the wisdom and compassion that’s inherently there.

It’s like tapping into your source, tapping into what’s already there. It’s the willingness to open your eyes, your heart, and your mind, to allow situations in your life to become your teacher. With awareness, you are able to find out for yourself what causes misery and what causes happiness.

“Be grateful to everyone” is getting at a complete change of attitude. It does not mean that if you’re mugged on the street you should smile knowingly and say, “Oh, I should be grateful for this,” before losing consciousness. This slogan actually gets at the guts of how we perfect ignorance through avoidance; not knowing that we’re eating poison; not knowing that we’re putting another layer of protection over our heart; not seeing through the whole thing.

”Be grateful to everyone” means that all situations teach you, and often it’s the rough ones that teach you best. There may be a Juan or Juanita in your life, and Juan or Juanita is the one who gets you going. They’re the ones who don’t go away: your mother, your husband, your wife, your lover, your child, the person that you have to work with every single day, part of the situation you can’t escape.

These situations really touch you because there’s no pat solution to the problem. You’re continually meeting your match. You’re always coming into a challenge, coming up against your edge. There’s no way that someone else can tell you exactly what to do, because you’re the only one who knows where it’s torturing you, where your relationship with Juan or Juanita is getting into your guts. Others don’t know. They don’t know when you need to be gentle; when you need to be more clear; when you need to be quiet; and when you need to speak.

No one else knows what it takes for another person to open the door. For some people, speaking out is opening the door a little wider; for other people, being still is opening the door a little wider. It all has to do with what your ancient habitual reaction is to being in a tight spot and what is going to soften the whole thing and cause you to have a change of attitude. It’s the Juans and Juanitas who present us with these dilemnas, these challenges.

Basically the only way you can communicate with the Juans and Juanitas in your life is by taking the teachings and the practice very personally, not trusting anybody else’s interpretations; because you yourself have the wisdom within, and you yourself will find out how to open that door.

As much as we would like Juan or Juanita to get out of our life and give us a break, somehow they stick around; and even if we do manage to get rid of them, they seem to reappear with another name and another face very soon. They are addressing the point at which we are most stuck.

The main point of “Be grateful to everyone”--the “dig”--is that you want to get rid of the situations that drive you most crazy. You don’t want to be grateful to them. You want to solve the problem and not hurt anymore. Juan is making you feel embarrassed, or degraded, or abused; there’s something about the way he treats you that makes you feel so bad you just want out.

This slogan encourages you to realize that when you’ve met your match you’ve found a teacher. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you shut up and don’t say anything and just stand there breathing in and out, although that might be exactly what you do. But [this practice] is much more profound than that. It has to do with how you open in this situation so that the basic goodness of Juan and Juanita and your own basic goodness begin to communicate.

Something between repressing and acting out is what’s called for, but it is unique and different each time. People have the wisdom to find it. Juan and Juanita have the wisdom, you have the wisdom, everyone has the wisdom to know how to open. It’s inherent in all of us. The path of not being caught in ego is a process of surrendering to situations in order to communicate rather than win.

Compassionate action, compassionate speech, is not a one-shot deal; it’s a lifetime journey. But it seems to begin with realizing that when Juan or Juanita is getting to you, pushing every button, it’s not as simplistic as just eating it, just being a worm, “Okay, let them attack me.” On the other hand, it’s not as easy as just saying, “I’ll get him.” It’s a challenge. This is how the koan appears in everyday life: the unanswerable questions are the greatest teachers.Copyright © 2006 Beliefnet.com. NOTE: This essay was excerpted from Start Where You Are: A Guide to Compassionate Living, which describes the Tibetan lojong, or mind-heart training techniques. Each lojong teaching corresponds to one of 59 "slogans" or guideposts. "Be grateful to everyone" is the 13th slogan. Pema Chodron is a Buddhist nun, renowned for her teachings on compassion.

My Interests

PEACE in Iraq and FREEDOM from Bush's TYRANNY

CONGRATULATIONS to the BALTIMORE Colts, Winner of SUPER BOWL XLI

The Winning Tradition Continues . . .

John Unitas, The GREATEST Quarterback in the History of the NFL (1958, 1959, 1967, 1971)!

Peyton Manning, The "Reincarnation" of John Unitas! The WINNING Tradition of the BALTIMORE Colts, Continues . . . (2007)

The arrogance of Robert Irsay in stealing this championship team from the city of Baltimore, Maryland, in the middle-of-the-night, will never, never be forgotten! Fairness and decency says the Ravens represent Indianapolis; not Baltimore!

Likewise may the highly paid commentators and analysts that bring us this sport, never forget the real origins of the Colts; nor a clean cut, former steel worker, who was "cut" by the Pittsburgh Steelers; known for his high top shoes and pinpoint throwing accuracy, is the real reason that professional football (a la, the NFL), is the #1 spectator sport! Go back to the 1958 and 1959 NFL championship games. Remember this was the time of the rise in usage and availability of television in the American home. And the "common" thread in all of this?! John Unitas! Tell that to the frickin' NFL!!!

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members, a heart of grace and a soul generated by love. --- Coretta Scott King

"Seek, and you shall find; ask, and it shall be given to you; knock, and the door shall be opened for you."

Human salvation lies in the hands of the creatively maladjusted. --- Martin Luther King Jr.

Entered Apprentice Bible Passage

Little Courtney Lovingly Donates Her Hair, So Another Child With Cancer MAY Have Hair! Thank You, Courtney!

American Civil War; Russian History; Modern European History; Freemasonry; Spirituality; Jungian Psychology; Chess; Shortwave Radio; Liberal Democrat; Philosophy; Theology; and, the pursuit of TRUTH, which no Patriot Act can permanently prevent!

Peace will come wherever it is sincerely invited. Love will overflow every sanctuary given it. Truth will grow where the fertilizer that nourishes it is also truth. --- Alice Walker, Author

The brightly shining mind is never absent but is colored by the thoughts and emotions that people put upon it. If you were to see the luminous freedom of this mind, you would cultivate it before any other, keeping it free from all attachments. --- Anguttara Nikaya [Buddhist]

One should not think, 'My religion alone is the right path and other religions are false.' God can be realized by means of all paths. It is enough to have sincere yearning for God. Infinite are the paths and infinite are the opinions. --- Ramakrishna [Hindu, regarding about right and wrong spiritual paths]

KNOW THYSELF --- Engraved on the entrance to the ancient Temple of Delphi in ancient Greece; and is the definitive statement on personal self knowledge.

"Beautiful people do not just happen . . . The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern . . . Beautiful people do not just happen . . ." --- Elizabeth Kubler Ross

Your vision will become clear *only* when you can look into your own heart. --- Carl Jung

There is no fire like greed and no crime like hatred. There is no sorrow like being bound to this world; there is no happiness like freedom. --- Dhammapada [Buddhist]

Freedom means the opportunity to be what we never thought we would be. --- Daniel J. Boorstin (1914-2004), American educator

There is no denying that consideration of others is worthwhile. There is no denying that our happiness is inextricably bound up with the happiness of others. There is no denying that if society suffers we ourselves suffer. Nor is there any denying that the more our hearts and minds are afflicted with ill-will, the more miserable we become. Thus we can reject everything else: religion, ideology, all received wisdom. But we cannot escape the necessity of love and compassion. --- The Dalai Lama

General standards of human rights apply to the people of all countries because, regardless of their cultural background, all humans share an inherent yearning for freedom, equality and dignity. Democracy and respect for fundamental human rights are as important to Africans and Asians as they are to Europeans and Americans. --- His Holiness, The Dalai Lama

Harvard International Review (1995)

When you know who you are; When your mission is clear and you burn with the inner fire of unbreakable will; No cold can touch your heart; No deluge can dampen your purpose. You know that you are alive. --- "Native" American Chief Seattle

Love is the doorway through which the human soul passes from selfishness to service and from solitude to kinship with all humankind. --- Author Unknown

The love you *give away* is the only love you *keep*. --- Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) Writer and publisher

Happiness is not so much in having as sharing. We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. --- Norman MacEwan

Necessary Weaknesses that Build Strength

1. Emotional vulnerability. Becoming an open and feeling person.

2. The ability to ask for help. Both men and women need this one.

3. The ability to say "I am sorry."

4. The ability to make and admit mistakes. Incredibly useful and productive.

5. Reliance on a "higher power."

6. Needs. Everyone has them. Admit to yours and create a plan to meet them in all four areas.: Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual.

7. "Not knowing." The ability to be teachable.

~Ten Signs of Good Health~

1. Persistent presence of a support network

2. Chronic positive expectations; tendency to frame events in a constructive light

3. Episodic outbreaks of joyful, happy experiences

4. Sense of spiritual involvement

5. Tendency to adapt to changing conditions

6. Rapid response and recovery of stress response systems to repeated challenges

7. Increased appetite for physical activity

8. Tendency to identify and communicate feelings

9. Repeated episodes of gratitude and generosity

10. Persistent sense of humor

To succeed . . . you need to find something to hold on to, something to motivate you, something to inspire you. --- Tony Dorsett

The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process is its own reward. --- Robyn Davidson

There is a stage of evolution in one's life when one arrives at a state when every question is answered by the life around him. The answer to his question comes as the re-echo of the very question.

For every thought of a sage, everything becomes an accommodation to help it to resound; and in this resonance there is an answer. In point of fact, the answer is in the question itself. The answer wells up from the depth of all existence, like the sound of a bell being struck, or the splash of water, or the crackle of a firecracker; each reveals its condition when struck, like the knock on the door. --- Hazrat Pir-O-Murshid Inayat Khan (Sufi/Muslim)

http://www.youtube.com/v/PWlS8Oerx8o

Mariah Carey Sings "Hero"

This is one of two songs that motivated and empowered me during the time I had become a mountain of human flesh at 350 lbs., and, had spent 7 yrs. in a wheelchair; caused by depression, loneliness and a declining marriage. I chose to "medicate" myself with food--lots of fattening food! I began outpatient physical therapy in October 1995 with Mississippi Methodist Rehabilitation Center in Flowood. By the time I ended, I was "well on my way" to reaching 205 lbs.; again, driving a hand-control operated car; and even walking 3 miles with my heavy steel and leather braces, orthopedic shoes, and crutches! A heartfelt thanks Mariah, for the profound way your song empowered me to truly transform my life; eat healthier; and live better!

I know why families were created, with all their imperfections. They humanize you. They are made to make you forget yourself occasionally, so that the beautiful balance of life is not destroyed. --- Anais Nin (1903-1977) Writer

http://www.youtube.com/v/Ax6aGxNow5I

Whitney Houston singing several songs, but culminating with "The Greatest Love of All". Both her rendition and Mariah Carey's were *most* inspiring and motivating to me during my 6 mos. of physical therapy (1995-1996), when I learned to walk for the 2nd time in my life! And reciprocally . . . this song has profound meaning and importance to anyone being abused, engaging in cutting, coping with a serious health issue (i.e., heart disease, cancer, disabling accident), depression, bipolar disorder and similar circumstances!

http://www.youtube.com/v/WDQr6w5YIMs

Martina McBride Sings the Ballad Opposing Domestic Violence, "Independence Day"

The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure , the process is its own reward. --- Robyn Davidson

Service... Giving what you don't have to give. Giving when you don't need to give. Giving because you want to give. --- Damien Hess

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it's a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perrenial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive him to be.

And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

--- Author Unknown: Found in a church in Baltimore, Md. in the 18th Century

May your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone. --- Colossians 4:6

Live your life so that the fear of death can never enter your heart. When you arise in the morning, give thanks for the morning light. Give thanks for your life and strength. Give thanks for your food and for the joy of living. And if perchance you see no reason for giving thanks, rest assured the fault is in yourself. --- Chief Tecumseh, Shawnee Indian Chief

We are, each of us, angels with only one wing; and we can only fly by embracing one another. --- Luciano de Crescenzo

Why does losing hurt so much? I have no answers now; only the life I have lived. Twice in that life, I have been given that choice--as a boy and as a man. The boy chooses safety; The man, suffering. The pain now is part of the happiness. That's the deal.

The closing narration by Sir Anthony Hopkins to the film Shadowlands, the story of the life of writer, teacher, and theologian C. S. Lewis; staring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger.

Just Be Yourself

Be strong enough to face the world each day.

Be weak enough to know you cannot do everything.

Be generous to those who need your help.

Be frugal with what you need yourself.

Be wise enough to know that you do not know everything.

Be foolish enough to believe in miracles.

Be willing to share your joys.

Be willing to share the sorrows of others.

Be a leader when you see a path others have missed.

Be a follower when you are shrouded in the midst of uncertainty.

Be the first to congratulate an opponent who succeeds.

Be the last to criticize a colleague who fails.

Be sure where your next step will fall, so that you will not stumble.

Be sure of your final destination, in case you are going the wrong way.

Be loving to those who love you.

Be loving to those who do not love you, and they may change.

Above all, be yourself! --- Author Unknown

Without Love

Without love in the heart,

Life is like a sapless tree in a barren desert.

What good is a body perfect in outer ways,

If inwardly it is impaired by lack of love?

With love enshrined in the heart, one lives.

Without it, the body is but bone encased in skin. --- Tirukkural 8:78-80 [Hindu]

What is called sympathy, kindness, mercy, goodness, pity, compassion, gentleness, humanity, appreciation, gratefulness, service, -- in reality it is love. --- Pir Inayat Khan [Sufi/Muslim]

Marriage

You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore.

You shall be together when white wings of death scatter your days. Aye, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God.

But let there be spaces in your togetherness; And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.

Love one another but make not a bond of love:

Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other's cup but drink not from one cup.

Give one another of your bread, but eat not from the same loaf.

Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone;

Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music. Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping.

For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts.

And stand together, yet not too near together: For the pillars of the temple stand apart; And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow. --- From The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

Your Children

Your children are not your children.

They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.

They come through you but not from you; And though they are with you; Yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts. For they have their own thoughts.

You may house their bodies but not their souls, For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.

You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.

The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.

Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness; For even as he loves the arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable. --- From The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

I must uphold my ideals, for perhaps the time will come when I shall be able to carry them out. --- Anne Frank

Prayer of Kindness

Be generous in prosperity, and thankful in adversity. Be fair in thy judgment, and guarded in thy speech. Be a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, and a home to the stranger. Be eyes to the blind, and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be a breath of life to the body of humankind, a dew to the soil of the human heart, and a fruit upon the tree of humility. --- Bahá'u'lláh

No one is on the journey of faith alone. No one. We are Brother and Sister. We are community. We are part of a "common" planet and world; each with our own unique talents, gifts and abilities; with everyone having something of value and importance to "bring to the Table." And if that is true, it dramatically changes the way we live.

We give up the need to keep score in our relationships. We realize that we are all broken, and the Grace of God is the glue. We learn to see the face of God in our neighbor.

We learn that our identity is no longer dependent on our appearance, affluence or achievement, so we have no need to impress anyone.

We learn to receive from one another, and to give to one another without expecting a payoff. We find God's Grace in places, through people we least expect.

We make a difference together--to serve, and truly be salt and light to a needy world.

Mother Teresa said that the reason we don't have peace in this world is that we have forgotten that we belong to one another. --- Adapted from Jesus in Skin by Terry Hershey

"Be sensitive to the plight of others. You have to know about the tragedies as well as the triumphs, the failures as well as the success." --- Jim Rohn

". . . Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure." --- Philippians 2:12b-13

Tefilat HaDerekh

(The Traveler's Prayer)

May it be Your will, Hashem, our God and the God of our ancestors, that You lead us toward peace, guide our footsteps toward peace, and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness, and peace.

May you rescue us from the hand of every foe, ambush along the way, and from all manner of punishments that assemble to come to earth.

May You send blessing in our handiwork; and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us.

May You hear the sound of our humble request because You are the God Who hears prayer requests.

Blessed are You, Hashem, Who hears prayer. Amen.

"My life is an indivisible whole, and all my attitudes run into one another; and they all have their rise in my insatiable love for mankind."--- Mahatma Gandhi

"How far you go in life depends on you being tender with the young; compassionate with the aged; sympathetic with the striving; and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in life, you will have been all of these." --- George Washington Carver

"Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push - a smile. A word of optimism and hope, a 'you can do it!' when things are tough." --- Richard De Vos

"I would rather live in a world where my life is surrounded by mystery than live in a world so small that my mind could comprehend it." --- Harry Emerson Fosdick (1878-1969), American clergyperson

"The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. . . . The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, the lion shall eat straw like the ox; but the serpent--its food shall be dust! They shall not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain, says the LORD." --- Isaiah 11:6; 65:25

God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. --- II Timothy 1:7

"A Victim NO More!: Domestic and Child Abuse"

http://www.youtube.com/v/KD60vg76fEk

The pictures in this video are graphic; but so are the pain, the scars and the wounds that proceed from this kind of senseless and demented attempt to control another through fear and degradation of body, mind and spirit! If you or someone you love is caught in the net of an abusive relationship, please seek immediate counsel and assistance from a clergyperson or a trusted friend! Your or their life depends upon immediate and decisive action! Love should never hurt!!!

"[Religious] dogmatism is not good. It is not good to feel that my religion is alone is true and other religions are right or wrong, true or false. I say this because one cannot know the true nature of God unless one realizes Him. ... Do you know what the truth is? God has made different religions to suit different aspirants, times, and countries. All [such religious] doctrines are only so many paths [to God]; but a path [to God] is by no means God Himself.....If there are errors in other religions, that is none of our business. God, to whom the world belongs, takes care of that." --- Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna

*Our Greatest Fear*

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?

Actually, who are you not to be?

You are a child of God. Your playing small, doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.

We were born to make and manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. --- Marianne Williamson

Dear Friends,

I just signed the First Freedom First petition -- about the importance of safeguarding separation of church and state and protecting religious liberty. The founders of our nation believed that all Americans should have the right to worship according to their own beliefs, or not to worship at all. It was so important to them that they placed it in the first sentence of the Bill of Rights. I believe that religion is a deeply personal matter and that Americans must be free to practice their religion without coercion. Simply put, there must be a separation of church and state. I know that we agree about the importance of these issues, so I hope that you will ACT NOW, like I just did. Be a part of First Freedom First.

Sign the petition and encourage others to join you. Together, we will send a powerful and resounding message -- safeguard the first freedom!

Please visit the website below and join me in standing up for this fundamental American freedom.

http://www.firstfreedomfirst.org/

The LIBERAL Christian Manifesto

We are witnesses to the Gospel of Jesus Christ; we are not the only people of God, but tell all the Truth; not as a monopoly; but with respect for the views of all persons, irregardless of how they see God, whatever faith system they embrace; they are worthy of love, honor, and respect; and they are all children of the same God as You or me!

I'd like to meet:

The FIRST Female Speaker of the U. S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi

Anti War Protest in Washington, DC

January 27, 2007

http://www.youtube.com/v/vD1uBOiyLSo

Former Soviet President and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Mikhail Gorbachev

Reverend Jim Wallis, Founder of Sojourners Magazine - The Voice of Progressive Christianity

Pennsylvania U. S. Congressman and American Military Hero John Murtha

American Military Hero and Double Amputee (Thanks to Bush's War) Tammy Duckworth

Former NATO Commander, Gen. Wesley Clark

Former President and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Jimmy Carter

CURRENT U. S. President Al Gore

Former President Bill Clinton



You Are 84% Democrat
You are a card carrying Democrat, and a pretty far left one at that!
There's no chance anyone would ever mistake you for a Republican. How Democrat Are You?

The Important Contributions DEMOCRATIC Presidents Have Made In IMPROVING the QUALITY of LIFE in the United States

The ACCOMPLISHMENTS of the GEORGE W. BUSH Administrations

My strength is not in hurting . . . So when she wanted me to STOP, I stopped!

I am "not" Jewish, but I was reared by my parents to have a deep and abiding respect for the Jewish faith and tradition; and to "never" forget as a Gentile that my faith is an inheritance from Judaism!

Similarly, the Holocaust of World War II, should "never" have been allowed to happen by the "free" nations of the world--including the United States! Similarly, I am neither "gay" nor "bisexual," but some of my friends are; and they should "never" have their human or civil rights compromised or abridged because of their sexual orientation!

AFFECTS Us ALL!

Defending the RIGHT of the Bush Administration to Keep YOU "In the Dark" on IRAQ

End Corporate Rule of America!

Reclaim American Democracy . . . Not Republican Borrow-and-Spend Capitalism!

Now surely . . . NO Child is Ever LEFT BEHIND with Bush Administration Education Policies!

The Wizard of Id's Perspective on the GREATEST Dilemna of the Bush Administration . . .

Making an INTELLIGENT Policy Decision

Garfield's Perspective on the #1 DAILY Activity of the Bush Administration . . .

LYING to Congress and the American People

Cheney clearly declares, "Poor Scooter . . . I NEVER knew him!

MMPI Online Score [generally score "ENFJ," but as you see here, 52/48% ratio]

ENFP - The Champion

You scored 72% I to E, 31% N to S, 23% F to T, and 52% J to P! Your type is known as the Champion type, which is part of the larger group called idealists. Nothing occurs that does not have some deep and ethical significance in your eyes. You see life as an exciting drama. You are very charismatic, yet tend to be too harsh on yourself for not being as genuine as you think you should be. 3% of the population shares your type.

As a romantic partner, you need to talk about what is going on in your life. You are a strong supporter for your partner's efforts to grow and change and be happy. You need to feel that same support from your partner. Expressive, optimistic, and curious, you are eager to enjoy new experiences with your partner, whom you wish to be your confidant and soul mate, as well as play mate. You are uncomfortable sharing negative emotion, though, and tend to withdraw from confrontation and process your feelings privately. You feel most loved when your partner appreciates your creativity, accepts your uniqueness, and sees you as the compassionate person you are. You need to hear your partner tell you how much you mean to them and would love if they did thoughtful spontaneous things to demonstrate it.

Your group summary: idealists (NF)

Your type summary: ENFP

It is better to light a candle

Than to curse the darkness.

It is better to plant seeds

Than to accuse the earth.

The world needs all of our power

And love and energy,

And each of us has something that we can give.

The trick is to find it and use it,

To find it and give it away.

So there will always be more.

We can be lights for each other,

And through each other's illumination

We will see the way.

Each of us is a seed,

A silent promise,

And it is always spring. --- Merle Shain

There is a place within you . . .

In which the entire universe dwells . . .

A place of love and light and understanding

When you are in that place in you

And I am in that place in me

We are one. --- Unknown

People Come Into Your Life For A Reason

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they "act up" and force you to take a stand.

What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime. --- Unknown

Teach this triple truth to all: A generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are the things which renew humanity. --- Buddha

You will make all kinds of mistakes, but as long as you are generous and true, and also fierce, you cannot hurt the world or even seriously distress her. --- Winston Churchill

The best thing about giving of ourselves is that what we get is always better than what we give. The reaction is greater than the action. --- O. S. Marden

Won't it be GREAT when the United States is RID of the STUPIDEST and the Most ARROGANT President in modern American history and we can again share in being Active Promoters of PEACE!

King George III, The House of Bush

LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH

Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me. Let there be peace on Earth, the peace that was meant to be.

With God as our Father, brothers all are we, Let me walk with my brother, in perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me, let this be the moment now. With every step I take, let this be my solemn vow,

To take each moment and live each moment in peace, eternally. Let there be Peace on Earth, and let it begin with me.

The HUMAN Cost of the WORST Foreign Policy Decision in American History!

Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people. --- Jawaharlal Nehru

Music:

Holocaust Remembrance Day: April 15, 2007: Never, Never Again, Dear God!

Classical (Mozart, Bach, Brahms, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Haydn, Handel and Sibelius are among my favorite composers); Easy Listening (doctor's office/elevator music); Celtic/New Age (Enya); Opera (The Magic Flute, La Boheme, and Madame Butterfly are my favorites); Showtunes (Oklahoma, Cabaret, Fiddler on the Roof, Guys and Dolls, South Pacific, West Side Story, and The Man of LaMancha are among my favorites); Classic Pop (Carole King, Carly Simon, Linda Ronstadt, the Supremes, Chicago, the Beach Boys, the Lettermen, Herman's Hermits, the Beatles and the Grassroots are among my favorites); Contemporary Pop (the Carpenters, Barry Manilow, Barbara Streisand, Billy Joel, "early" Mariah Carey are among my favorites); Adult Contemporary (Beth Nielsen Chapman, Natalie Cole); Contemporary Country (Reba McEntire, Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood, the Dixie Chicks, and Martina McBride, are among my favorites), and together, these are Puptruck's favorite musical genres.

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring by J. S. Bach

http://www.youtube.com/v/Q1HtJzRDXpc

Organist Sandy Davis performing "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" on the organ at Third Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Brother Wolfgang A. Mozart, The GREATEST Composer and Musical Genius of ALL Time! When a multitude of artists, songs and genres are long forgotten, Mozart and his music will be forever remembered!!!

The beauty, profundity and the simplicity of the symbols of Freemasonry, that molded and shaped the life and work of Brother Mozart--most notably, his seminal operatic work, The Magic Flute.

The Joy, Beauty, Harmony and Enrichment Derived from CLASSICAL Music: The Music That WILL "Stand the TEST of TIME"!

http://www.youtube.com/v/02yf6RHIQjQ

Natalie Dessay performs "Der Hölle Rache" from "Die Zauberflöte"

http://www.youtube.com/v/YO2QqvNgvjs

O mio babbino caro (Oh, Dear Daddy) from "La Boheme"

http://www.youtube.com/v/PNKWzml7zlY

Angela Gheorghiu performs "Un bel di vedremo" from "Madame Butterfly"

A Tribute to Karen Carpenter: 1950-1983, and ANOREXIA NERVOSA

http://www.youtube.com/v/-dFT0TvZQ1o

This video reminds us of one of the most tragic events in recent pop music history--the death of Karen Carpenter in February 1983. Karen, perhaps possessed, the most beautiful voice of the 1970s and early 1980s. Together with her brother Richard, the two of them "cranked out" one hit song and ballad after another. Sadly, on February 4, 1983, Karen died of heart failure--engendered by a longstanding battle with an eating disorder that goes back to ancient times, anorexia nervosa. She was only 32.

This video also highlights other famous people's lives who were claimed by this disease--a condition predicated on a false self-image, where the person perceives themself as fat, when in reality, they are either of normal size or too thin! The video also gives important information about the condition and other famous person's claimed by this horrific illness--fueled by a penchant for perfection and a modeling industry that forever tells women they can never be too thin! Yet, the sad reality is that you will be dead before you are thin enough--just remember Karen Carpenter!

My Favorite Show Tune, Sunrise Sunset From The 1971 Film Adaptation of Fiddler on the Roof

http://www.youtube.com/v/0ZQtY8pec6s

Having recently had the 6th year anniverary of the "passing" of my beloved father, February 18, 2007; and with the 87th birthday of my mother on March 23, 2007, I am very mindful that between these personal events, combined with special friendships that this year will span 29, 27, 11, and 6 years in 2007, of the profundity and importance of friends and relationships to our emotional health and well-being! Thank you Nancy, Karen, Janice, Jane, and "My Sunshine"! And whether you are "in recovery"; contemplating making significant changes in your life; or, just "connecting" in your heart with the special people that have given you the precious and priceless GIFT of FRIENDSHIP, I invite you to connect with this unique American musical art form!

True friendship isn't about being there when it's convenient; it's about being there when it's not. --- Author Unknown

http://www.youtube.com/v/9HqvfjSVqm8

Enya: Only Time

Which Tarot Card Are You?
You are the Empress card. The Empress is the archetype of the Mother. She creates and nurtures life. She represents the abundance of Mother Earth. The Empress is capable of using nature in a productive way. She espouses art for art's sake. Her planet is Venus, and she embodies love of beauty and a strong value system. Here is also found initial sensation. This is the first really physical experience of the world that The Fool has entered. The Empress has a rich understanding of the world based on her five senses. In a reading, The Empress represents pregnancy, actual or metaphorical. She indicates an act of creation and a sensual experience of beauty. The Empress is a nurturing force that wishes to see the product of her experiences reach the next stage of development. Image from A Photographic Tarot http://www.bluewitch.com/healingtarot/healtar.htm Deck
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ATTENTION WOMEN: Important Insights About Relationships

The greatest achievement is selflessness.

The greatest worth is self-mastery.

The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.

The greatest precept is continual awareness.

The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.

The greatest action is not conforming with the world's ways.

The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.

The greatest generosity is non-attachment.

The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.

The greatest patience is humility.

The greatest effort is not concerned with results.

The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.

The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances. --- Atisha

Movies:






Most people seek after what they do not possess and are enslaved by the very things they want to acquire. --- Anwar el-Sadat



Where the needs of the world and your talents cross, there lies your vocation. --- Aristotle







Without any doubt, Gone with the Wind, the historical novel of war and romance, set in the time of the American Civil War, is the #1 film of all time.


. . . this is not an invitation to rape me!

We ask justice, we ask equality, we ask that all civil and political rights that belong to the citizens of the United States be guaranteed to us and our daughters forever. --- Susan B. Anthony, 19th & early 20th Century leader of the Women's Movement


We are committed to a feminist ideology and reaffirm our historic commitment to gaining equality for women, assuring, safe, legal and accessible abortion and full reproductive freedom, combating racism, stopping violence against women, ending bigotry and discrimination based on sexual orientation and color, ethnicity, national origin, economic status, age, disability, size, childbearing capacity or choices, or parental or marital status. --- Excerpt from the National Organization for Women's 1998 Declaration of Sentiments


Feminism is a social movement whose goal is to eliminate the oppression of women in all its forms. --- Amy Kesselman, Lily D. McNair, and Nancy Schniedewind, eds., Women: Images & Realities, 1996



Feminism has transformed the lives and aspirations of the majority of women in ways unmeasurable by statistics... raising women's intellectual,economic and political expectations, increasing intolerance of wife beating, rape and other violence against women, redefining women's sexuality. --- Linda Gordon, historian, author of United States Women's History, 1997


Feminism is the single most powerful social movement of our time, one that addresses every aspect of human and social life. --- Richard Epstein, author of Bargaining With the State, 1993


Some of my favorite films include.:

Beaches; The Way We Were; Message in a Bottle; When Harry Met Sally; You've Got Mail; Forest Gump; Fatso; Before and After; Doctor Zhivago; Lawrence of Arabia; The Life of Emile Zola; Fiddler on the Roof; Kismet; Cabaret; Man of Le Mancha; Oklahoma; West Side Story; Phantom of the Opera; The Bishop's Wife (original); The Seventh Seal; Hamlet; Macbeth; The Magic Flute; Shadowlands; Gone with the Wind; Gettysburg; Gods and Generals; Glory; The Man Who Would Be King; A Man Called Peter; A Man for All Seasons; Tora! Tora! Tora!; Midway; The Gallant Hours; MacArthur; Heaven Knows Mr. Allison; The Sands of Iwo Jima; The Halls of Montezuma; Guadalcanal Diary; Flying Leathernecks; Fahrenheit 911.


http://www.testriffic.com/personality/

Duty, then is the sublimest word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more; you should never wish to do less. --- Robert E. Lee (1807-1870)


The REPUBLICAN Pledge of ALLEGIANCE

What a cruel thing is war: to separate and destroy families and friends, and mar the purest joys and happiness God has granted us in this world; to fill our hearts with hatred instead of love for our neighbors, and to devastate the fair face of this beautiful world. --- Robert E. Lee

It is well that war is so terrible. We should grow too fond of it. --- Robert E. Lee


The education of a man is never completed until he dies. --- Robert E. Lee

Still Scenes from Gettysburg

http://www.youtube.com/v/ZDfykkn4pRk

Perhaps the greatest war picture--and certainly, the best one on the American Civil War, the defining event of the war; Gettysburg, fought in July 1863, was the defining battle and campaign of that bloody conflict. It was the 2nd installment of a trilogy of films on the Civil War, but was the 1st to be released in the middle 1990s.

Still Scenes from Gods and Generals

http://www.youtube.com/v/6m-Wt858Y_E

Gods and Generals was the 2nd film of a Civil War film trilogy to be released--though chronologically, it is the first. Militarily, it focuses on the Battles of 1st Bull Run, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville; but, the military figure that the film revolves around is Confederate Lt. Gen. Thomas Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson. Jackson is played by Stephen Lang from "Gettysburg." Lang played George Pickett of the disastrous "Pickett's Charge," in the earlier released film. Similarly, there are a number of other carryover actors from Gettysburg, but some new ones as well!


The York Rite and the Scottish Rite degrees and orders enhance and illumine a Freemason's knowledge and understanding of the Craft and its spiritual interpretation of many of the tools and designs of the operative mason. Nevertheless, the true essence of FREEMASONRY are the three degrees of the "Blue Lodge": Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, Master Mason.




Perhaps, one of the simplest, yet one of the most difficult endeavors in life, is honestly confronting our failings, shortcomings and demons! Similarly, one of the perils of modern life, is acknowledging that our narcissistic, perfectionist, lookistic world--supported by the media, continually projects images that essentially declare, "I am not "good" enough! Remarkably, you or I will never be "good enough"! One thing I learned in my seminary education--and, have repeatedly been reminded in over 28 yrs. in my ministerial role as a counselor is the great paradox of ministry: As a clergyperson, I am "called" as a broken, imperfect, sinful person; to minister through "active" listening, to *other* broken, imperfect, sinful persons! Thus, this .gif reminds all of us that our 1st task for happiness and wholeness is to "slay our demons"; accept our shortcomings; and remember the paradox, "There is strength in weakness!" Refrain from comparing yourself with others. Celebrate your strengths. And move forward with confidence--mindful that all things are connected and You are here for a purpose!


Never be afraid to ask a question or seek help! We all have something to bring to the Table; we all are persons of worth and value. By "reaching out" for help, we renew and restore hope; and for many of us--single, widowed, divorced, only children--we discover a more joyful life by remembering that we live "in community" with one another!


The cartoon image of Lucy holding the football for Charlie Brown to kick--and ultimately, to "pull it away" so that Charlie Brown would fall, underscores a profound theological point about the crude reality of life--namely, there will always be people and institutions (i. e., work, school, church/synagogue/mosque, family--and, the people that comprise these components of our lives, that have no compunction or reservation to steal our dreams and goals! Be proactive! Ask questions! Remain focused; and never QUIT!


Accept differences Be kind Count your blessings Dream dreams--nourish, nurture and act on them

Express thanks Forgive often Give freely and without aim for compensation or reward Harm no one

Imagine more Jettison anger away completely Keep confidences faithfully Love honestly and, hold nothing back

Master something well Nurture hope in yourself and in others Open your mind to new possibilities Pack lightly

Quell rumors Reciprocate kindness Seek wisdom and truth Touch hearts authentically

Understand others--both your inferiors and your superiors Value truth and practice it in your dealings with others Win graciously "Xercize" your body and your mind

Yearn for peace in all that you say or do Zealously support a worthy cause --- Anonymous







Ganesha, "The Elephant God," which is the elephant-deity riding a mouse — has become one of the commonest mnemonics for anything associated with Hinduism. Ganesha's head symbolizes the Atman or the soul, which is the ultimate supreme reality of human existence, and his human body signifies Maya or the earthly existence of human beings. The elephant head denotes wisdom and its trunk represents Om, the sound symbol of cosmic reality. In his upper right hand Ganesha holds a goad, which helps him propel mankind forward on the eternal path and remove obstacles from the way. The noose in Ganesha's left hand is a gentle implement to capture all difficulties.

The broken tusk that Ganesha holds like a pen in his lower right hand is a symbol of sacrifice, which he broke for writing the Mahabharata. The rosary in his other hand suggests that the pursuit of knowledge should be continuous. The laddoo (sweet) he holds in his trunk indicates that one must discover the sweetness of the Atman. His fan-like ears convey that he is all ears to our petition. The snake that runs round his waist represents energy in all forms. And he is humble enough to ride the lowest of creatures, a mouse.

Ganesha is also the destroyer of vanity, selfishness and pride. He is the personification of material universe in all its various magnificent manifestations. "All Hindus worship Ganesha regardless of their sectarian belief," says D. N. Singh in A Study of Hinduism. "He is both the beginning of the religion and the meeting ground for all Hindus." SOURCE: About.com:Hinduism. As the graphic illustrates, Ganesha has profound implications for personal spirituality, and, in cultivating a greater mindfulness to serving as a healer and a peacemaker in this broken, troubled and confused world!








I am not gay; but, my friends that are; they are decent, card-carrying members of the human race, and they *deserve* our respect-- and neither ridicule nor condemnation for who they are!






Passion is appropriate in any relationship; between two (2) consenting adults, irregardless of sexual preference; provided there is authentic mutual caring as a foundation for the practice of sharing, caring Love and mutual Forgiveness of Self and each other.


As I have stated previously in this profile, I am not gay; but I honor and respect my gay friend's to express their feelings for their partner the same I would with a woman!



Who are any of Us to judge "another" human being; even someone who chooses, or circumstances necessitate that they work in the sex industry?! They were *created* in the image and likeness of God just like anyone else was! So . . . before you judge anyone, my friend, THINK ABOUT what I just said!



Look forward to Mondays!

Teresa Noreen’s Pic of the Week Archive


Courageous cancer victim Jim Volvano, Head Coach of the N. C. State Wolfpack, celebrating his team winning the 1983 NCAA Basketball Championship.





Truly enough said regarding 12 of the most disastrous years in American history; preceeded by 8 equally disastrous yrs. under Ronald Reagan! I believe in 2008, Americans will finally get it RIGHT--VOTE DEMOCRATIC!!!










This is a 100% HOMOPHOBIC FREE Site!




The Conflicted Feelings of the Anorexic and the Bulimic-Anorexic in a World That Celebrates Slimness and Condemns Soft, Rounded "Fluffy" FAT!


The tragic death of popular singer Karen Carpenter in 1983, from the ancient diagnosed disease of anorexia nervosa, did nothing to change America's celebration of slimness; indeed American women are more fixated on weight than ever before--even willing to die to achieve the "perfect" body!!

















.. NEVER Drink and Drive! There are too *many* friends and family that will miss you when you're gone; and I doubt the thought of spending the rest of Your LIFE in a WHEELCHAIR excites You?! Am I right? I thought I was right!


Poodwaddle.com



Modern humankind has evolved from a hunter to a GLUTTONOUS Hog; who uses and consumes far "more" resources than are available; rapes and destroys the Earth; and fails to preserve wildlife and ecosystems that would be for the betterment of "all" LIFE on our beloved planet!




The beauty and simplicity, yet the complex profundity of the meaning of the working tools of the Entered Apprentice or the 1st Degree of Freemasonry, serves to explain the growth and popularity of the oldest and largest fraternity in the world--started in England in 1717, and based upon the tools used by operative masons in the building of the great cathedrals.


The soul is one, the choice of its thoughts. Think only of those things that can bring the full light of day. The context of your character is your choices. Day by day, what you choose, what you think and what you do is who you become. Your integrity is your destiny. It is the light that guides your way.


DON'T Kid Yourself . . . NURSING HOMES are about $$$ [i.e., Your MONEY] Their CONTROL of You and Managing YOU and Your Loved One . . . It Has NOTHING to Do With Being "Cared For" . . . It's the Bottomline That Matters MOST!!! Write me; I'll tell you my personal 16 month nightmare! The administrator, nursing directors, and social worker that engineered this discharge should be indicted by a grand jury for placing economic profit ahead of patient welfare! In hospitals, you are "cared for"; in the nursing home I and many under 55 persons are taken to heal, you are "managed"! I am happy to tell you the "difference," as well as, the countless things one must consider before placing a family member in a facility! I had 3 elderly roommates during my 16 months of Hell; my first two roommates died--one in the room! Consequently, I can tell you what to expect and what to be ready to experience! It is "not" a pretty picture!


Oh and BTW . . . This health care FAILURE applies to ALL Three (3) parts of the industry: hospitals, home health and nursing homes! Most especially, nearly all of Us will one day live in the financially GREEDY and environmentally MANIPULATIVE residence of a nursing home; where You will be Bossed, Bullied, Controlled and Manipulated; just as I was in a facility for 16 wasted months of my life! Our Mantra? We, the CONSUMER must work to Reverse the dilemna created by this OVERPRICED and poorly MANAGED $6 TRILLION industry! The Time to ACT is NOW!

Television:


Simply stated, separating ourselves from constant acquisition and the proverbial "keeping up with the Jones'," will do wonders for your personal, emotional and financial security and well-being! Rejecting American capitalism'a perversion of Adam Smith's A Wealth of Nations, is truly a wise, prudent, pro-active and positive decision!


The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention. A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well-intentioned words. --— Rachel Naomi Remen


Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. --- Mark Twain


You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. --- Ralph Waldo Emerson


With courage you will dare to take risks, have the strength to be compassionate, and the wisdom to be humble. Courage is the foundation of integrity. --- Keshavan Nair, Indian philosopher, engineer and student of Gandhi




This prayer is a variation of a famous published prayer, composed by a dying Confederate soldier in the waning months of the American Civil War. It reminds us that every "good and perfect gift" is a real and authentic blessing from God--the Supreme Architect of the Universe; and, it is from our Divine Parent, that we are given strength, patience, courage and perseverance in the face of all adversity and challenge we may confront. Further, it is from the lessons that we learn and from an honest awareness of our strength and liabilities, that we grow and mature; and discover that our greatest joy and satisfaction proceeds from committing ourselves to lives of service to others. For in the end, as persons created in the image and likeness of God, we are all that Adoniah has to "carry out" the important work of the kingdom of God!


There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state to another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness. We must have felt what it is to die, that we may appreciate the enjoyments of life. --- Alexandre Dumas


Consider the following. We humans are social beings. We come into the world as the result of others' actions. We survive here in dependence on others. Whether we like it or not, there is hardly a moment of our lives when we do not benefit from others' activities. For this reason it is hardly surprising that most of our happiness arises in the context of our relationships with others. --- The Dalai Lama


Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. --- Melodie Beattie


Growing up is never easy. You hold on to things that were. You wonder what's to come. But that night, I think we knew it was time to let go of what had been, and look ahead to what would be. Other days. New days. Days to come. The thing is, we didn't have to hate each other for getting older. We just had to forgive ourselves... for growing up. --- From The Wonder Years TV series


Too many people grow up. That's the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up. They forget. They don't remember what it's like to be 12 years old. They patronize, they treat children as inferiors. Well I won't do that. --- Walt Disney


The day the child realizes that all adults are imperfect, he becomes an adolescent; the day he forgives them, he becomes an adult; the day he forgives himself, he becomes wise. --- Alden Nowlan


The GREAT ESCAPE . . . Who do you see?


Suffocating . . . sinking further almost every day barely treading water; knowing I will not give up! . . . WHY ME? Turn around and pick up the pieces!

I've heard that it's possible to grow up - I've just never met anyone who's actually done it. Without parents to defy, we break the rules we make for ourselves. We throw tantrums when things don't go our way, we whisper secrets with our best friends in the dark, we look for comfort where we can find it, and we hope - against all logic, against all experience. Like children, we never give up hope. --- Meredith Grey from the fictional TV series Grey's Anatomy


The best way to express and define my television programming preferences is to indicate the satellite channels I watch most often! In addition, I must add the full cornucopia of film channels from Sundance, the Independent Film Channel to STARZ to the commonly popular "pay" channels!

CNN; PBS; History Channel; History International; MSNBC; C-SPAN; C-SPAN II; Learning Channel; Arts and Entertainment; Discovery Channel; National Geographic; Discovery Times; Science Channel; TV Land; Military Channel; Biography Channel; Boomerang

NFL Network; Comcast Channel; College Sports TV; ESPN

Go St. Andrews Knights, Pamlico County Hurricanes, Duke Blue Devils, Penn State Nittany Lions, BALTIMORE Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Orioles, and Carolina Hurricanes and any team playing the Denver Broncos, because of John Elway; or, the New England Patriots, because of George W, Bush, Jr.--Tom Brady!!!




The FOX Channel is nothing more than the "television arm" of the National Republican Party--the last thing in the world for which it can be characterized is "fair" and "balanced"! Indeed, it is just another part of the fascist dictatorship of George W. Bush that began with the tragic events of September 11, 2001; but really began on December 12, 2000, when the U. S. Supreme Court violated the U. S. Constitution by selecting the President of the U. S.--instead of being legitimately elected by the American people! Events following September 11, 2001, both domestically and internationally, have demonstrated that George W. Bush is the stupidest and most incompetant man in modern American history to serve as President!



Like George W. Bush, there is nothing "compassionate" about Ann Coulter--truly the "female Hitler of our time"!


It is ironic what an outstanding spokesperson Ann Coulter is for the REPUBLICAN Noise Machine's School of Hate!


My #1 "Pet Peeve"

From the REPUBLICAN

"Noise Machine":

Ann Coulter:

Its Anorexic "Poster" Child


Henry Rollins Writes a Heartfelt Love Letter to the Anorexic Poster Child of the Right, Ann Coulter

http://www.youtube.com/v/ZgSBhlw-o9E











The Presidential I. Q. Report

The six Republican presidents of the past 60 years had an average I. Q. of 115.5, with President Nixon having the highest I. Q., at 155. President George W. Bush was rated the lowest of all the Republicans with an I. Q. of 91.


We learn from history that we do *not* learn from history. --- Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel


"Pyramid of the Capitalist System" illustrates the fundamental flaws of capitalism--especially when viewed "in light" of the disastrous and the "make richer and the poor destitute presidences of Reagan and *both* Bushes-- currently spanning 18 of the most disastrous years in modern American history!



DISTINGUISHING Traits of Bush's "Compassionate" Conservatism


Power without the trust of the nation is nothing. --- Catherine the Great

The undisciplined man doesn't wrong himself alone—

He sets fire to the whole world.

Discipline enabled Heaven to be filled with light;

Discipline enabled the angels to be immaculate and holy. --- Rumi


We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark. The real tragedy of life is when [people] are afraid of the light. --- Plato

Interestingly, Plato's quote is just as relevant to princes and paupers; including a dark prince who resides at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D. C.; and uses lies, fear, terror and intimidation to manipulate and traumatize the American body politic--thus keeps citizens from seeing The Light and revels in their residing in Fear and Darkness!


A SPECIAL Musical DEDICATION to the STUPIDEST and the Most INCOMPETENT President in Modern AMERICAN History: GEORGE W. BUSH

FROM: 67% and GROWING Slice of the AMERICAN Population

FOR: Crimes Against the PEOPLE of the UNITED STATES; The PEOPLE of the WORLD Community; and the "Trashing" of The Constitution

SONG: Not Ready To Make Nice

ARTIST: The INCOMPARABLE and COURAGEOUS Dixie Chicks

http://www.youtube.com/v/MO-pgEfdXTQ






Shift TARGETS


Indeed, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, followed by a horribly managed war in Afghanistan, then Iraq--both by an arrogant president and vice president--resulting in the senseless slaughter of nearly 4000 American servicemen and women in Iraq alone, has created an America we have never known; a financial debt that generations yet to be born will be paying for decades; and a "broken" military, educational and health care systems, all because every "$" is being spent on the worst foreign policy decision in American history! Is this the kind of world you want your children and grandchildren to inherit?! Write, e-mail or call your congressperson and senators! It is time to "put back on the Table" the impeachment, removal from office, and hopefully, the deportation to federal prison, George W. Bush and Richard Cheney for crimes against the peoples of the United States and the world community!!!


MIDEAST Oil


"Food for Thought" Regarding the Post 9/11 Bush Administration. Think about it!


MORE Food for Thought for the Religious Right ("The American Taliban") for Their SUPPORT of the Stupid, Senseless War in Iraq (The WORST Foreign Policy Decision in American History!!!)

Put your sword back in its place, Jesus said to him, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. --- Matthew 26:52

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. --- Matthew 5:9

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. --- Luke 6:27-28

You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. --- Matthew 5:38-39



It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world. --- Thomas Jefferson


We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable; that all men are created equal and independent, that from that equal creation they derive fights inherent and inalienable, among which are the preservation of life and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. --- Thomas Jefferson


In every country where man is free to think and to speak, difference of opinion will arise from difference of perception, and the imperfection of reason; but these differences, when permitted, as in this happy country, to purify themselves by free discussion, are but as passing clouds overspreading our land transiently, and leaving our horizon more bright and serene. --- Thomas Jefferson


He who permits himself to tell a lie once finds it much easier to do it a second and third time till at length it becomes habitual. --- Thomas Jefferson


Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press and that cannot be limited without being lost. --- Thomas Jefferson


How many bright, courageous American men and women are you going "to plant" this week, King George?! How many *more* Americans must senselessly die or become "permanently" maimed and disabled over a street brawl you had with Saddam Hussein, and, to perpetuate America's gluttonous appetite for oil--personified in the SUV van? With the death toll nearing 4000 Americans; 29,451 wounded, and 13,170 disabled with loss of limbs and body parts; in a war that has lasted longer than World War II, it is time for *all* Americans to contact their congressperson and senator and DEMAND the impeachment and removal from office of BOTH Dick Cheney and George W. Bush for crimes against the people of the United States and the world community!



click here to learn more


They DIED Due to UNconscionable LIES from the Office of the President of the United States


Domestic Violence: What YOU Can DO To RESPOND!





http://www.myspace.com/brokensilence_06

Eating Disorders: Size Acceptance--A Different, Positive, and Healthy Perspective on a Serious Societal Issue


You scored as Gluttony,
Gluttony


100%

Sloth


63%

Greed


50%

Lust


44%

Pride


44%

Envy


31%

Wrath


0%
Seven deadly sins
created with QuizFarm.com

As the whimsical images above indicate, both men and women have become obsessed with the "body beautiful" in our lookistic, shallow, narcissistic and graceless culture. Indeed, there are increasing reports of men becoming involved in the eating disorders of anorexia and bulimia; as well as, binge eating and compulsive overeating. My testimony in this profile, as well as, pictures of me for your comments in my photo gallery speaks to this reality. The influence of television, films and the print media, have brought us to a world that is sadly more focused on appearance, food and fat than ever before--even to a greater extent since the tragic death of Karen Carpenter from heart failure in the early 1980s--the consequences of a lost battle with anorexia--spread over many years. The size acceptance movement "launched" by New York City resident Bill Fabrey in the late 1960s, with the beginning of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance and was given another shot in the arm in the early 1980s with the advent of Big Beautiful Woman magazine under the leadership of Carole Shaw.

A Celebration of the Unique Beauty of Fat


As art historians remind us, the gaunt, slim, emaciated female form has *not* always been celebrated by *both* the art world *nor* its patrons! Similarly, activists in the size acceptance movement since 1967, will tell you the same thing! Indeed, with a proper balance of nutrition, exercise, and a healthy "self esteem," FAT *Can Be* BEAUTIFUL!

NOTE: Due to space limitations in the "Heroes" section of my profile, where, I address the alleged "obesity crisis," as well as such eating disorders as anorexia nervosa (which has been a part of the world since ancient Egypt) and bulimia; I have chosen to "continue the conversation" here, at the close of the most powerful media communicator, television.

A Fat Rant

http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vdmlkcy5teXNwYWNlLmNvbS9p bmRleC5jZm0/ZnVzZWFjdGlvbj12aWRzLmluZGl2aWR1YWwmdmlkZW9pZD0y MDE1ODc1ODcx

As a nearly 52 yr. old, partial amputee paraplegic; who, in the past 12 yrs., has thrice weighed 350 lbs., I have a unique perspective that enables me to identify with the timely thoughts shared in this video! Naturally, this is a topic that rarely focuses on men--but, I can remember beginning to wear husky clothes when I was 6; was medically described as morbidly obese at 9, and began wearing men's clothes a yr. or so later; can remember the delight I had from the first girl I had a crush on (and who was very slim), coming up to me and poking and shaking my fat belly and called me "Jumbo Cumbo" (a spin on the 2nd half of my last name); eating a dozen Krispy Kreme doughnuts in college; and, as a young adult, enjoyed going to the burger joints and "loading up" my tray with as much food as I could, while wearing my FAT CAN BE BEAUTIFUL custom-made tee shirt--with bright red letters on a gray shirt. And given my impaired mobility due to spina bifida, it didn't take a rocket scientist to see why I grew to be so large on my relatively short 5 ft. 5 in. frame. Nevertheless, Joy's point in the video has been replicated in my life--namely, the quality of life and the possibilities that life gives me is not tarnished by my girth! Rather, our societal penchant and admiration of the slim body has evolved through history; and at one time, it was the fuller and rounded figure that was venerated and worshipped! And in some parts of the world, the adulation of what we would think is a "fat" body, continues to receive this kind of emulation and imitation!


Curiously, the real, original Marilyn Monroe, would be deemed "F-A-T" by contemporary cultural standards for "ideal" body weight!
And though I have had occasional dates with average and slim sized women, the smallest woman that I have ever shared an intimate relationship (my last one, BTW) was a size 16 preceded by a size 18. Yet, the majority of these women were a size 20 to a size 32. I likewise became involved in size acceptance through the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA). I earnestly believe this video gives us an honest and insightful perspective on size and weight--an issue that film, TV, the print media and chauvinistic men have made life for women of all sizes, a "living hell"! Indeed, a person can be FAT, and still be FIT! Looking at every fat person you meet and think, "God this person is disgusting . . . soooh 'out of control,' is a wrong assumption; because a whole litany of factors not readily discernible (i.e., sports or back injuries, medications, etc.) may all contribute to why they are carrying a few extra pounds! Dispensing with the natural inclination to judge, is again, best! And BTW . . . never use the word "overweight" to physically characterize someone! "Over" whose weight?! Think about it! And similarly, FAT Can Be Both FIT and BEAUTIFUL!



It hardly takes a "rocket scientist" to figure out who is the *more* attractive woman: the gaunt, emaciated, narcissistic "runway" model; or, the "healthy" looking, full-figured woman with the poolstick! Which one is your choice?!


Supersized women known as "SSBBWs" have a rare and special beauty that mirrors the warmth and extraordinary softness of their feminine figures--with their large, luscious and squeezable rolls and folds of flesh; which, for centuries, art and fashion celebrated and venerated, but, in recent times, has favored the slim, androgynous, masculine figure--robbing women of the curves that uniquely define a woman.


I have been divorced for 10 yrs. In September 2007, I "turn 52." For 17 yrs., I was married to a full figured woman--a size 16-18 when we got married in the summer of 1980; a size 26-28, by the time we divorced in 1997. Similarly, the only "real time" relationship I have enjoyed in the years following, was with a Slovak American woman who stands 5'8" tall; is a professionally educated musician and vocalist; but like me, has had a lifelong struggle with food and obesity. Being a woman, and, in the performing arts, she came under enormous pressure from friends and family. She elected to take phen-fen. She dramatically lost alot of weight--going from over 500 lbs., to 330 lbs., by the time we met. Yet, when the drug was found to be harmful, and was removed from the market by the FDA, her weight again ballooned to over 500 lbs.! Eventually though, she met another professional man--interestingly, with a lifelong disabling condition like me. They married in May 2003. In November 2003, she had weight loss surgery--again having weighed over 500 lbs. In the summer of 2007, she is down to 300 lbs.

In conversations both with her and, with my ex-wife, I heard a common thread in the hurt and pain of their life experience. Namely, as children and teens, they were the object of hurtful words and pranks from male classmates. Yet, as women, it was "other" women that were rude and hurtful to them in interpersonal relationships. The picture above, on the top, reflects the sentiments of men and women that prefer fuller figured women! They are called fat admirers, or "FAs," for short! Yes, to those women that arrogantly and smugly trumpet their tiny, emaciated figures and very small dress sizes, with the intent to hurt, offend or discriminate -- there are persons that embrace this P. O. V.!

The picture above, on the bottom, represents the "enlightened" P. O. V. that these large lasses encounter and experience from their slimmer sisters who choose to treat them as "equals"! Truly, irregardless of size, shape, weight, disability, race, color, creed or sexual orientation, it is, to treat all persons--as decent, card-carrying members of the human race; mindful, that we are all, children of the same God or higher power! Think about it, my friends! It is so liberating to "be ourselves,, and reciprocally, allow others, to do likewise!


Declaration of Health Rights for Fat People

By Lynn Meletiche, October, 1988. © NAAFA

WHEREAS, fat people often suffer discrimination in the health care delivery system; and

WHEREAS, fat people deserve the same level of health care services available to non-fat people,

BE IT RESOLVED that the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, Inc. adopts the following Declaration of the Rights of Fat People in Health Care:

To non-discrimination in the health care system due to weight size or illness category;

To have quality medical care, social services, and adequate physical accommodations / equipment/testing facilities in the health care setting;

To have full explanation of all health procedures; to help choose the modality of treatment; and to refuse treatment (including calorie-restrictive diets);

To have an advocate, either an individual or organizational representative of our choice, to ask questions for us, to listen to what we cannot hear; and to be with us;

To refuse participation in weight loss programs of all kinds, including diets, surgery, aversive psychological conditioning, and chemical regimes, without jeopardizing access to other treatment and care;

To adequate and appropriate analgesia and anesthesia when necessary in the opinion of the patient;

To freedom from ridicule, coercion, and harassment from all care givers in the health delivery system;

To be treated by individuals who are accurately informed about the latest research in the areas of bariatrics, nutrition, metabolism, and genetics with regard to "obesity"; and,

To privacy and confidentiality of all medical records.


It is always good to never take ourselves too seriously! And similarly, never forget this wise proverb regarding life: "Dining well, like living well, can be a *real* challenge--especially considering its many diversions and distractions! Therefore, EAT DESSERT FIRST!"


In these fast-paced, "dog-eat-dog" times, when narcissism, egotism, selfishness, greed and, especially in women, the gaunt, emaciated, lean look is extolled, venerated and worshipped in the temple of slimness, women, most especially, *must* have a clear and decisive view of life--their goals, desires and ambitions--and, a concomitant plan to achieve them! This reality has become all-the-more important for women, who, in increasing numbers, have entered the job market--often with *both* a full time and a part-time job, given the spiraling increase in the number of "single" parent families; *most* with a woman as the sole wage earner! The above graphic whimsically expresses why every woman MUST be a feminist-- if for survival alone, barring "other" issues of equal or greater importance!


Does this picture of these obese women offend you? Do you feel they are "out of control" or that they take up too much space? Do you think they are dirty or unclean or are less intelligent than either an average sized woman or a woman of lean or athletic proportions? Well . . . think again, my friend! There are varied and sundried reasons why someone can have a propensity to gain additional weight! The most important thing is to remember that oldie song, "Everyday People." The world is a better place because there are persons of different sizes and weights, and none of them are "overweight"! "Over" whose weight?! An insurance actuary table based on statistical probability? No, these women are all beautiful people; created in the image and likeness of God; and have unique talents and abilities! So ... the next time you meet a FAT person think TWICE before You JUDGE Them!


http://www.naafa.org







Audrey Hepburn

A WONDERFUL POEM by AUDREY HEPBURN... When asked to share her "Beauty Tips."

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.

Books:


We come to love, not by finding the perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly. Only after we have lost everything, are we free to do anything. Throw things out there and not be perfect and not have answers to anything and see if people understand. --- Angelina Jolie


http://www.campaignforrealbeauty.com

You are here to serve others, to be a light for them, to participate in their lessons and to help heal humanity. You are also here to serve yourself, to heal your karma, to enable your soul's growth and reconnect to the Source. Your challenge is to find a balance between serving others and yourself so that you can accomplish the tasks that you established for yourself in this lifetime and even go beyond that. How you view your role in serving others is an important part of this process. --- Jennifer Hoffman


Whoever is spared personal pain must feel himself called to help in diminishing the pain of others. We must all carry our share of the misery which lies upon the world. --- Albert Schweitzer



A religious man is a person who holds God and man in one thought at one time, at all times, who suffers harm done to others, whose greatest passion is compassion, whose greatest strength is love and defiance of despair. --- Abraham Heschel, 1963


The greater your capacity to love, the greater is your capacity to feel the pain. --- Jennifer Aniston, American actress


Sometimes questions are more important than answers. --- Nancy Willard, American poet


Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for the truth. --- Benjamin Disraeli


Those who don't know how to weep with their whole heart don't know how to laugh either. --- Golda Meir, First Female Prime Minister of Israel


To care for anyone else enough to make their problems one's own, is ever the beginning of one's real ethical development. --- Felix Adler


Love often leads to healing, while fear and isolation breed illness. And our biggest fear is abandonment. --- Candace Pert, neuroscientist


The education and empowerment of women throughout the world cannot fail to result in a more caring, tolerant, just and peaceful life for all. --- Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Leader of Burma's democracy movement


When you begin to touch your heart or let your heart be touched, you begin to discover that it's bottomless, that it doesn't have any resolution, that this heart is huge, vast, and limitless. You begin to discover how much warmth and gentleness is there, as well as how much space. --- Pema Chodron


Lasting change is a series of compromises. And compromise is all right, as long your values don't change. --- Jane Goodall, English primatologist


For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die;

A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

A time to kill, and a time to heal;

A time to break down, and a time to build up;

A time to weep, and a time to laugh;

A time to mourn, and a time to dance;

A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;

A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to seek, and a time to lose;

A time to keep, and a time to throw away;

A time to tear, and a time to sew;

A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

A time to love, and a time to hate;

A time for war, and a time for peace.

--- Ecclesiastes 3:1-8


...when we finally know we are dying, and all other sentient beings are dying with us, we start to have a burning, almost heartbreaking sense of the fragility and preciousness of each moment and each being, and from this can grow a deep, clear, limitless compassion for all beings. --- Sogyal Rinpoche


Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently. --- Rosa Luxemburg, revolutionary


It is in deep solitude that I find the gentleness with which I can truly love my brothers. The more solitary I am the more affection I have for them…. Solitude and silence teach me to love my brothers for what they are, not for what they say. --- Thomas Merton


Genuine politics -- even politics worthy of the name -- the only politics I am willing to devote myself to -- is simply a matter of serving those around us: serving the community and serving those who will come after us. Its deepest roots are moral because it is a responsibility expressed through action, to and for the whole. --- Vaclav Havel


I believe that we are solely responsible for our choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and thought throughout our lifetime. --- Elisabeth Kübler-Ross


Love alone can unite living beings so as to complete and fulfill them... for it alone joins them by what is deepest in themselves. All we need is to imagine our ability to love developing until it embraces the totality of men and the earth. --- Pierre Teilhard de Chardin


I am the owner of my actions, heir to my actions ... --- The Buddha


Parents can only give good advice or put them [children] on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands. --- Anne Frank

Right now you are one choice away from a new beginning—one that leads you toward becoming the fullest human being you can be. --- Oprah Winfrey

There are two days in the week on which I never worry;

One is yesterday and the other is tomorrow. --- Robert Burdette


IMPORTANT Consideration for EVERYONE, But Especially Persons "In Recovery"!:


Katrina Victim Releases Spiritual Book on Civil War!

http://www.myspace.com/gloriakenmaregrant

http://glory1940.tripod.com/


Kindness should not be random; kindness should be deliberate and bold and aggressive. Real kindness is active and alive. --- Anita Roddick


When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace. --- The Dalai Lama


Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver. --- Barbara DeAngelis


One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest. --- Maya Angelou


There never was any heart truly great that was not also compassionate. --- Robert Frost


It is compassion that ... makes the narrow heart as wide as the world. --- Nyanaponika Thera, Buddhist teacher


An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language. --- Martin Buber


The ESSENCE, BEAUTY, and GRACE of the FEMALE Figure


And not to overlook the fact that three (3) is a DIVINE number!


Doubt isn't the opposite of faith; it is an element of faith. --- Paul Tillich

Intention is a clear thought that will help you fulfill a need. --- Deepak Chopra


Pure love is a willingness to give without a thought of receiving anything in return. --- Peace Pilgrim, pacifist

Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to a better understanding of ourselves. --- Carl Jung


If I could define enlightenment briefly I would say, "It is the quiet acceptance of what is." --- Dr. Wayne Dyer


You can never have a revolution in order to establish a democracy. You must have a democracy in order to have a revolution. --- G. K. Chesterton

A great revolution in just one single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a society and, further, will enable a change in the destiny of humankind. --- Daisaku Ikeda


Revolution is a serious thing, the most serious thing about a revolutionary's life. When one commits oneself to the struggle, it must be for a lifetime. --- Angela Davis


Human intelligence is a reflection of the intelligence that produces everything. In knowing, we are simply extending the intelligence that comes to and constitutes us. We mimic the mind of God, so to speak. Or better, we continue and extend it. --- Huston Smith

We who lived in concentration camps can remember the men who walked through the huts comforting others, giving away their last piece of bread. They may have been few in number, but they offer sufficient proof that everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms -- to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way. --- Viktor Frankl


Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. --- Matthew 5:3-12

The essence of optimism is that it takes no account of the present, but it is a source of inspiration, of vitality and hope where others have resigned; it enables a man to hold his head high, to claim the future for himself and not to abandon it. --- Dietrich Bonhoeffer


Like The Nation, Air America Radio is part of that infamous liberal media that the Right Wing, homophobic, Democratic-hating fundies at "unfair and unbalanced" Fox News are forever railing about! Thank God for Bill Clinton "putting them in their place" and Ann Coulter recently demonstrating in a speech, the hate agenda of the Right; combined with its hypocrisy in Republican Speaker Newt Gingrich calling for the impeachment of President Clinton over a sex scandal while he was cheating on his wife!


YIN and YANG: Always Keep Learning; Evolving into NEW States of CONSCIOUSNESS; Revolving Through Creative DIALOGUE; Reflecting on ALL The Elements of Intellectual INQUIRY; and then, ACT on Your REFLECTED Decision

The mark of solitude is silence, as speech is the mark of community. Silence and speech have the same inner correspondence and difference as do solitude and community. One does not exist without the other. Right speech comes out of silence, and right silence comes out of speech. --- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

It is in deep solitude that I find the gentleness with which I can truly love my brothers. The more solitary I am the more affection I have for them…. Solitude and silence teach me to love my brothers for what they are, not for what they say. --- Thomas Merton


Reflections on a Life Well Lived

From the Cradle to the grave,

Our work is never done,

It is the true light

Of Knowledge I crave,

The Bringer of Mercy, The Bearer of Light, I am the Adept; God's Chosen One.

From the Cradle to the Grave,

Our work is never done.

Through Cardinal Virtures, on the five points of fellowship - its Mankind I save;

From his blindness, his evils he is the ignorant one.

I bring freedom, liberty, and justice.

Man fears me, and hunts my family down.

Can't kill my message, my spirit; just us.

My life you may take; what you make lost, will be found.

I am not a wretch, vile and purjured.

My integrity, my honor, my soul is not for sale.

No price for a rough ashlar, imperfect rest assured.

Still, I am silent, no matter the pain you cause I will not tell.

I must protect the Word, and the Word will be with me.

Until then my labor resumes past life's zenith.

I have been elected to receive that which only few can see.

My curse and my blessing, only the chosen to share with.

From the Cradle to the Grave,

Our work is not done.

I liberate the ignorant and free the depraved,

I am so, a son of Light; A Freemason - I am the Adept; God's Chosen One.


. . . It's strange how many people only picture God as transcendent, making himself known by shooting off thunderbolts.

God is transcendent, above the world and beyond it, outside time and space in a mode of being which is beyond the scope of our imaginations to conceive, but the God who makes Himself known to us is the immanent God, the God who's so close that He's at the very center of our existence.

It's strange too how much time people spend traveling round and round the 'circle of existence' and getting nowhere.

The real journey - the journey all people are required to take to achieve integration, self-realization, and fulfillment, - "the eternal life" of religious language - is the journey inwards, the journey to the center of the soul. --- Susan Howatch

Freedom is always and exclusively freedom for the one who thinks differently. --- Rosa Luxemburg, revolutionary


Ethics and Will of God, 2006 PBS documentary on Lutheran Minister in Nazi Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer


The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children. --- Dietrich Bonhoeffer


Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the Web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect. --- "Native" American Chief Seattle

As a rule, men worry more about what they can't see than about what they can. --- Julius Caesar


Be generous and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped. --- Proverbs 11:25


Faith consists in being vitally concerned with that ultimate reality to which I give the symbolical name of God. Whoever reflects earnestly on the meaning of life is on the verge of an act of faith. --- Paul Tillich


From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life. --- Arthur Ashe


Being religious means asking passionately the question of the meaning of our existence and being willing to receive answers, even if the answers hurt. --- Paul Tillich

We must learn to regard people less in light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer. --- Dietrich Bonhoeffer


We will not build a peaceful world by following a negative path. It is not enough to say we must not wage war. It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it. We must concentrate not merely on the negative expulsion of war but on the positive affirmation of peace. We must see that peace represents a sweeter music, a cosmic melody, that is far superior to the discords of war. Somehow, we must transform the dynamics of the world power struggle from the negative nuclear arms race, which no one can win, to a positive contest to harness humanity's creative genius for the purpose of making peace and prosperity a reality for all the nations of the world. In short, we must shift the arms race into a peace race. If we have a will - and determination - to mount such a peace offensive, we will unlock hitherto tightly sealed doors of hope and transform our imminent cosmic elegy into a psalm of creative fulfillment. --- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.



Indeed, the time has come for the earlier pronouncement of Speaker Pelosi to be fully vetoed! Simply stated, both George W. Bush and Dick Cheney should be impeached, removed from office and deported to federal prison for crimes against the people of the United States and, the world community. Both have "trashed" The Constitution of the United States, and have advocated and implemented actions and policies that violate the basic freedoms guaranteed all Americans! Similarly, they employed lies and the obfuscation of Truth to "involve" our nation in the worst foreign policy decision in American history-- a decision that has led to the senseless slaughter of nearly 4000 American servicemen and women!


Worry not that no one knows of you;

Seek to be worth knowing. ---Confucius


Language . . . has created the word "loneliness" to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word "solitude" to express the glory of being alone. --- Paul Tillich


The Seven Noble Treasures

The Confidence of Faith

The Virtue of Morality

The Conscience of Shame

The Fear of Blame

The Advantage of Learning

The Gift of Generosity

The Insight of Understanding --- Buddha


When you find peace within yourself, you become the kind of person who can live at peace with others. --- Peace Pilgrim, spiritual leader


Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.

Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.

Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.

Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.

If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals upon their heads."

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. --- From Paul's Letter to the Romans, 12:9-21



Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew. --- Saint Francis de Sales

Yesterday is but a vision, and tomorrow is only a dream. But today well lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, and every tomorrow a dream of hope. --- Anonymous


Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war. --- Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) Italian educator

It is the characteristic excellence of the strong man that he can bring momentous issues to the fore and make a decision about them. The weak are always forced to decide between alternatives they have not chosen themselves. --- Dietrich Bonhoeffer



What do I believe? As an American I believe in generosity, in liberty, in the rights of man. These are social and political faiths that are part of me, as they are, I suppose, part of all of us. Such beliefs are easy to express. But part of me too is my relation to all life, my religion. And this is not so easy to talk about. Religious experience is highly intimate and, for me, ready words are not at hand. --- Adlai E. Stevenson

The essence of the Liberal outlook lies not in what opinions are held, but in how they are held: instead of being held dogmatically, they are held tentatively, and with a consciousness that new evidence may at any moment lead to their abandonment. --- Bertrand Russell

Government is a contrivance of human wisdom to provide for human wants. People have the right to expect that these wants will be provided for by this wisdom. --- Jimmy Carter

The Democrats are the party of government activism, the party that says government can make you richer, smarter, taller, and get the chickweed out of your lawn. Republicans are the party that says government doesn't work, and then get elected and prove it. --- P. J. O'Rourke

Liberalism is trust of the people, tempered by prudence; conservatism, distrust of people, tempered by fear. --- William E. Gladstone


Revolution is not something fixed in ideology, nor is it something fashioned to a particular decade. It is a perpetual process embedded in the human spirit. --- Abbie Hoffman

May slavery be banished forever together with the distinction between castes, all remaining equal, so Americans may only be distinguished by vice or virtue... In the new laws, may torture not be allowed. --- Jose Maria Morelos y Pavón

Revolution is an abrupt change in the form of misgovernment. --- Ambrose Bierce


Like The Nation, Mother Jones, The New Republic and The Utne Reader, In These Times stands in a distinguished tradition with these progressive and liberal oriented publications, in presenting incisive and thought-provoking journalistic inquiry affecting both the U. S. and the world community. This has been especially important following the events of September 11, 2001, when through various methods--including The Patriot Act and the revocation of the writ of habeas corpus, the Bush Administration has arrogantly employed fear, intimidation and the misrepresentation of facts, to launch a pre-emptive, undeclared and unjust war in Iraq; and has effectively, implemented tyranny for the first time in the history of the American people!


Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable. --- Dr. Joyce Brothers, American psychologist


Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey! --- Barbara Hoffman


It is not enough to pray for peace, you must live it. Peace is not being passive; it is acting out of the highest intention. --- Mary Collins

Entered Apprentice Trestleboard and Symbols


Amos' Plumbline (AMOS ch. 7): Fellowcraft Degree


May every *Master Mason* who has been "passed" to the Degree of a Fellowcraft *never* forget its important lessons, as beautifully portrayed in its lectures: (1) The winding staircase of three, five, and seven steps; (2) The two globes representing the terrestrial and the celestial world; (3) The ancient meaning and importance of receiving your wages in the form of corn, wine and oil; (4) The role of the number "3" in the Middle Chamber for the receipt of the Master's wages and the 3 principal officers of the Lodge; (5) The role of the number "5" in forming a lodge of Fellowcrafts; reminding us as well of the 5th science, "Geometry"; the five senses; and the five orders of architecture.; (6) The role of the number "7" in reminding us of its *perfect* nature (as it is made up of three and four, the two perfect figures, triangle and square) and reminds us of the importance of the seven liberal arts and sciences in cultivating an educated and a learned person.; and (7) The Letter "G" and its meaning and importance in having a balanced and well-shaped understanding of the world.


Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.

But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree; and none shall make them afraid: for the mouth of the Lord of hosts hath spoken it. --- Micah 4:2-5


As they used to say, 'What if they gave a war and nobody came?' How worthwhile if they declared a day of peace and everybody came! --- Edward Asner, Film and television actor


Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945), Executed by the Nazis Near the End of World War II for Running a Renegade "Underground" Lutheran Seminary to Train and Educate Ministers Who Opposed Hitler


Father Henri Nouwen, MY Spiritual Mentor

An individual who has gained popularity and respect in Christian circles, akin to that of Thomas Merton, is the now deceased Catholic theologian Henri Nouwen (1932-1996). Like Merton, Nouwen combines a strong devotion to God with a poetic, comforting, yet distinctly intellectual style that strikes a strong and sympathetic chord with what could be called Christian intelligentsia. Many pastors and professors are greatly attracted to his deep thinking. In fact, one of his biographers revealed that in a 1994 survey of 3,400 U. S. Protestant church leaders, Nouwen ranked second only to Billy Graham in influence among them.


Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968), Baptist Minister, Civil Rights Leader; Killed By an Assasin's Bullet Organizing a Labor Strike in Memphis, Tennessee


Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal. --- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.


I cannot live without books. --- Thomas Jefferson


I never told my religion nor scrutinize that of another. I never attempted to make a convert nor wished to change another's creed. I have judged of others' religion by their lives, for it is from our lives and not from our words that our religion must be read. By the same test must the world judge me. --- Thomas Jefferson



If you haven't forgiven yourself something, how can you forgive others? --- Dolores Huerta, activist

Tribute to Persons Who Have CHANGED The WORLD





Clinical symptoms of schizophrenia

Thought disorder

Reduced logic

Confused associations

Detachment from reality

Auditory hallucinations

Deterioration of personal hygiene

Paranoid feelings

Excessive feelings of guilt

Reduced expression of emotions



Cry Out in Your Weakness . . .


Cry out in your weakness! Recognize that you are a unique child and creature of your "higher power"; with certain unique talents, gifts and abilities that distinguish you from anyone else. You are likewise a product of your experiences, environment, friends and relationships that have inhabited or been a part of your life.

And despite an affinity for cockiness or a penchant for absolutizing things, you really live in a world that is more gray, than black-and-white. Never be afraid to ask questions, as you *will* learn something you didn't know!

Similarly, learn to discipline yourself to listen to others; as this will become your greatest gift to those whose lives you "touch"! Never think you have *all* the answers to all the questions; for as sure as you embrace this view, something will happen that will totally transform your life, and will elicit *more* questions!

Cultivate kindness, caring and empathy for others; as it will enrich your life and make you mindful of gratitude and thanksgiving--and together, it will enable, equip and empower you to do what life is really all about: namely, loving and serving your friends and neighbors without desire for reward or recompense--mindful that whatever weaknesses or shortcomings we may have; someone else is traveling a more dififficult and challenging path, and we can make a difference through extending a caring hand and believing the very best in others.


We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty. --- Mother Teresa, social worker


I look forward confidently to the day when all who work for a living will be one with no thought to their separateness as Negroes, Jews, Italians or any other distinctions. This will be the day when we bring into full realization the American dream -- a dream yet unfulfilled. --- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Heroes:

The Reverend Fred Rogers, Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. ("Mister Rogers Neighborhood")

At the center of the universe is a loving heart that continues to beat and that wants the best for every person. Anything we can do to help foster the intellect and spirit and emotional growth of our fellow human beings that is our job. Those of us who have this particular vision must continue against all odds. Life is for service.

--- (The Rev.) Fred Rogers of Mister Rogers Neighborhood

America's FIRST Real Americans, Who Had Their Lands and Their SACRED Hunting Grounds STOLEN By the U. S. Government

Robert E. Lee; Franklin Roosevelt; Robert F. Kennedy; (Father) Henri Nouwen; (Rev.) Fred Rogers of Mister Rogers Neighborhood; Jacques DeMolay; Anne Frank; George Washington; Harry S. Truman; Thomas Jefferson; Benjamin Franklin; Andrew Jackson; John F. Kennedy; Mikhail Gorbachev; Gandhi; George Washington Carver; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Dietrich Bonhoeffer; Gen. Colin Powell; The Dixie Chicks; John Unitas; Peyton Manning [The "Reincarnation" of John Unitas, and with the same team, the BALTIMORE Colts!]

Our Founders had a job to do to win freedom from the English and forge for the United States our own political identity. Lincoln had a job to do to preserve the Union and make it a nation worth fighting for. Gandhi had a job to do to lead a nonviolent crusade for India's independence. Dr. King had a job to do to lead the struggle for America's civil rights.

These people didn't whine; they acted. They didn't give in to despair; they created revolutions. They didn't curse the darkness; they became the light--passionately intelligent people in service to the job at hand.

They put aside their childish inclinations and served a process larger than themselves. They were not without pain, nor were they perfect people--any more than we are perfect--when they heard and responded to the call of history.

They answered the plea for democracy and justice made throughout the ages, and have answered it; were given all the strength they needed to bring forth the resurrection of good.

These were not geniuses who just happened to care about the human race; they were people who cared passionately about the human race, and out of that passion, their genius emerged.

--- Healing the Soul of America: Reclaiming Our Voices as Spiritual Citizens by Marianne Williamson

Anne Frank, Jewish teenager, who, through much of World War II, she and her family, hid from the Nazis in Holland; but, eventually, their location was revealed; and all but her father, died in the concentration camp at Auschwitz. She is famous for her diary, chronicling the events of her family's hiding; and stands as a lasting testimony to courage, faith, and perseverance.

Jacques DeMolay, The Last Grand Master of the Knights Templars

Brother George Washington: "Father of His Country"; Commander of the Continental Army; 1st President of the United States; A Devout and Devoted Episcopalian; and a Freemason

Brother Benjamin Franklin, Freemason

You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.

--- Brother Woodrow Wilson

PRESIDENT Woodrow Wilson, who guided the United States through World War I and guided the United States to *new* prominence as a world power

The *only* President to be elected to Four (4) Terms, Brother Franklin Deleano Roosevelt, Led America "Out" of the Great Depression and *Most* of World War II, and did so in a wheelchair and with the use of orthopedic braces And without a doubt, neither Ronald Reagan nor George W. Bush in their presidencies, came anywhere near the excellence and the compassion for *real* people that was clearly evident in FDR! Just like Dan Quayle, the stupidest man in modern history to serve as Vice President--and claimed to have some *special* relationship with John Kennedy--neither Reagan nor Bush was a Franklin Roosevelt! BTW, Franklin D. Roosevelt was a Freemason!!!

Brother Harry S. Truman, who served as Grand Master of Masons of Missouri, was catapaulted to the Presidency of the United States--following the sad and untimely death of Brother Franklin D. Roosevelt just weeks before the conclusion of World War II. A veteran of World War I, Truman became the 1st "Cold War" President; taking a leading role in the rebuilding of Europe through the Marshall Plan; implemented the racial integration of the U. S. armed forces; and led the United States in halting North Korean and Chinese Communist aggression in South Korea in the Korean War.

PRESIDENT John F. Kennedy Led the United States into the "Great Frontier," and demonstrated through the use of diplomacy and the wise and adroit use of military power, that the United States could prevent a nuclear war without a "pre-emptive" invasion of a people and a nation the American people had no justifiable reason to attack!

**********

Unconditional war can no longer lead to unconditional victory. It can no longer serve to settle disputes. It can no longer be of concern to great powers alone. For a nuclear disaster, spread by winds and waters and fear, could well engulf the great and the small, the rich and the poor, the committed and the uncommitted alike. Mankind must put an end to war or war will put an end to mankind.

--- John F. Kennedy

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Theodore Roosevelt; Republican; President of the U. S. (1901-1909) and a Freemason. Roosevelt, said in 1902, "One of the things that attracted me so greatly to Masonry . . . was that it really did live up to what we, as a government, are pledged to -- of treating each man on his merits as a Man."

Gerald R. Ford; Republican; Vice-President, then, President of the U. S. (1974-1977) and a Freemason; helped "heal" the U. S. following both the comclusion of the Vietnam War, by offering amnesty to persons that had refused to serve; and similarly, issued a pardon for Richard Nixon; who, shamefully resigned from office; due to his complicit knowledge of a collection of events known as Watergate.

Gen. Colin L. Powell, U. S. Army, Ret.; Former U. S. Secretary of State

For his courage and sensibility in opposing an arrogant President; who believes he can personally alter the meaning and intent of treaties and other binding legal instruments that is the sole right right alone of the U. S. Congress to change, as provided by the U. S. Constitution!!!

The Country Music Trio, THE DIXIE CHICKS

Like Gen. Powell, the Dixie Chicks have taken a firm and resolute stand against George W. Bush. The big difference however, is that the Dixie Chicks "took a stand" when the lie of "Mission Accomplished" was very much in the mind of the body politic and before the disastrous mismanagement of Hurricane Katrina's relief efforts by an arrogant, non-compassionate, uncaring President. Sadly, the Dixie Chicks' career suffered because of the lies of the Republican "Noise Machine," and its primary purveyor, Faux News (Fox News). Happily, with the passage of time, the majority of Americans have come to realize that the pre-emptive invasion of Iraq is the *most* disastrous American foreign policy decision. And with that awareness, has come the concomitant realization that George W. Bush is the *most* incompetent and the stupidest President in modern American history! Congratulations to the Dixie Chicks for their wise and courageous stand!

There have been and there will continue to be great quarterbacks in the NFL; but all quarterbacks are "judged" by the example and the performance of John Unitas!

CONGRATULATIONS to the NFL Network for including a clip of John Unitas in their current promotional advertising!

Conversely, deep criticism of the National Football League must "be leveled" for their failure to acknowledge and recognize that Unitas was the 1st pro quarterback to lead an NFL franchise (the BALTIMORE Colts) to an overtime championship victory in 1958; parallel to the rise of television in the American home!

An effort made for the happiness of others lifts [us] above ourselves.

--- Lydia M. Child (1802-1880) Writer

Our children may learn about heroes of the past. Our task is to make ourselves architects of the future.

--- Jomo Mzee Kenyatta (c. 1893-1978) Kenyan President

The World is Your Mirror

The good you find in others, is in you too.

The faults you find in others, are your faults as well.

After all, to recognize something you must know it.

The possibilities you see in others, are possible for you as well. The beauty you see around you, is your beauty. The world around you is a reflection, a mirror showing you the person you are.

To change your world, you must change yourself. To blame and complain will only make matters worse. Whatever you care about, is your responsibility. What you see in others, shows you yourself.

See the best in others, and you will be your best. Give to others, and you give to yourself. Appreciate beauty, and you will be beautiful. Admire creativity, and you will be creative.

Love, and you will be loved. Seek to understand, and you will be understood. Listen, and your voice will be heard. Teach, and you will learn.

--- Author Unknown

Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere in which individual differences are appreciated, love is shown openly, mistakes are used for learning, communication is open, rules are flexible, responsibility (matching promise with delivery) is modeled and honesty is practiced—the kind of atmosphere found in a nurturing family.

--- Virginia Satir

Humans need to 'wake up' to a reality outside themselves. Inside that awareness, we'll find our true value

--- Anthony De Mello

The measure of love is to love without measure.

--- St. Francis de Sales

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause ...

--- Theodore Roosevelt

Those who cannot feel the littleness of great things in themselves are apt to overlook the greatness of little things in others.

--- Kakuzo Okakura

Friendship takes many years to establish; so do not fall out with a friend over a single disagreement.

--- Gulistan by Sadi [Muslim/Islam]

Our friends are those who know their own faults well enough to forgive us ours.

--- Moulton Farnham

Poets need not go to Niagara to write about the force of falling water.

--- Robert Frost

Dancing with the feet is one thing, but dancing with the heart is another.

--- Author Unknown

The stereotypical scientist—the 'man' of logic ... is far from reality. Successful science demands imagination, and insight, sensitivity and common sense, as well as a passion for discovery.

--- Nancy Rothwell

I have always believed, and I still believe, that whatever good or bad fortune may come our way, we can always give it meaning and transform it into something of value.

--- Hermann Hesse

A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues.

--- Cicero

Life without thankfulness is devoid of love and passion. Hope without thankfulness is lacking in fine perception. Faith without thankfulness lacks strength and fortitude. Every virtue divorced from thankfulness is maimed and limps along the spiritual road.

--- John Henry Jowett

God is pleased with no music below so much as with the thanksgiving songs of relieved widows and supported orphans; of rejoicing, comforted, and thankful persons.

--- Jeremy Taylor

FAT and Getting FATTER!

Globally, the statistics are mind-boggling: there are more obese people in the world than those who do not have enough food to eat. America is the global capital of fat, with 30 per cent of people medically obese.

. . . For a start, the current wave of obesity in the U. S. began in about 1980. Back then, only about 5% of the population was obese. Now, the figure is six times greater. But the Western diet hasn't become noticeably more calorific in the past 26 years. Nor do people exercise markedly less or drive much more.

OBESITY: The Big Issue by Michael Hanlon

--- The Daily Mail, February 23, 2007

Never kid yourself . . . there is nothing fun and enjoyable about compulsive overeating or becoming obese!

For like the smoker with their cigarettes; the alcoholic, with their excessive consumption of beer, wine or liquor; the drug addict and their illicit drug(s) of choice; the shopaholic, who is forever "buying stuff" and going "deeper in debt"; or, the relationship addict, who feels "love" in how many persons they can "sleep with"--ALL of these individuals need professional help!

The timeless dictum: "Everything in moderation," represents the healthiest and, the *most* mature response to the emptiness and the personal vacuum ALL of them feel! For, in the end, it is only by confronting and slaying our demons and addictions, will we ever realize permanent and lasting growth!

America's sedentary lifestyle, poor eating habits, and the availability of cheap, high fat "fast food" is making our society and its citizens fatter than ever! The percentage of obese persons continues to steadily increase. And the number of pre-school and elementary aged children who are 50 lbs. over their ideal weight is mindboggling. Fat children generally become obese adults. Without decisive, pro-active action now, to get young people moving, is going to have a disastrous effect on our culture that we cannot even measure!

The HEARTBREAKING Sadness of America's OBESE Children

Every day, about one-quarter of American adults eat at fast-food restaurants. Cheap, tasty, and convenient, fast food is loaded with saturated fat and calories, and it's low in fiber and nutrients. Thanks in large part to fast food, half of America's adults and one-quarter of its children are obese, double the rate of a generation ago. Even some popular chicken nuggets, which many consumers consider a healthier alternative, are flavored with beef extract and contain twice as much fat, ounce for ounce, as a hamburger.

Although most of the health problems related to fast food aren't felt until middle age -- obesity, heart disease and Type II diabetes are at an all-time high --- the damage starts before children enter kindergarten. Hoping to shape eating habits, fast-food chains market heavily to children. About 96% of American school-aged children recognize Ronald McDonald, second only to Santa Claus. Almost every American child eats at a McDonald's® at least once a month. The picture above showcases the real tragedy that proceeds from the obesity crisis and the sedentary lifestyle that geometrically enhances its effects!

The "Ultimate" Illustration of the SERIOUSNESS of the OBESITY Crisis

A 39 yr. old, 625 lb. Maryland man has been bedridden for 7 yrs. There are literally thousands of Americans weighing 500 lbs. or more! You do NOT see them, because their weight has confined them to their homes or worse, the bed, 24/7!!!

WHY feed, fill, gorge, stuff, and fatten OURSELVES on excessive quantities of FOOD?! Fat kills and fat people DIE young! LIFE is too short to needlessly abuse our bodies in this manner!!!

ANOREXIA: The "Other" Side of America's Struggle for Beauty and Perfection

This Is the PRICE of BEAUTY?!

We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival.

BULIMIA: Throwing Up Food to Preserve IDEAL Weight?!

ANOREXIA is a LOSING Game You DON'T Want to WIN!

We gain strength and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face...we must do that which we think we cannot.

--- Ralph Waldo Emerson

ARE YOU STARVING FOR PERFECTION?

Perfection doesn't look so hot, does it?

Recovery is HOPE!

Life is outside your door and love is all around you. . . . Get Real!

Beauty isn't worth thinking about; what's important is your mind. You don't want a fifty-dollar haircut on a fifty-cent head.

--- Garrison Keillor

http://www.myspace.com/bannersofhope

THANK God for FEMINISTS!

As a middle aged, partial amputee paraplegic professional person, I thank God for the 1st woman I met that was an avowed and a committed feminist. We met through computer dating, shortly after my 23rd birthday in my 3rd yr. of graduate school 1978. In the spring of 1979, we became engaged to be married. And even though we did not get married, we have remained lifelong friends for nearly 30 yrs.! The education and consciousness raising that Nancy gave me in our intimate relationship was priceless, and has empowered me to be an advocate for women's rights; and, an ally in the important battle against domestic violence! Thank God for Nancy and thank God for feminists! I am honored and privileged to be your friend!

May every Christian remember your spiritual heritage, the Ten Commandments and Jesus Himself, all come from Judaism and the Jewish faith. Indeed, the idea of creeds, found in the Apostle's and Nicene creeds, have their origins in "The Shema" of Deuteronomy, "Hear Oh Israel; the LORD Our God is ONE!

"Be Someone"

Be someone who listens, and you will be heard.

Be someone who cares, and you will be loved.

Be someone who gives, and you will be blessed.

Be someone who comforts, and you will know peace.

Be someone who genuinely seeks to understand, and you will be wise.

Be someone kind, someone considerate, and you will be admired.

Be someone who values truth, and you will be respected.

Be someone who takes action, and you will move life forward.

Be someone who lifts others higher, and your life will be rich.
Be someone filled with gratitude, and there will be no end to the things for which you'll be thankful.

Be someone who lives with joy, with purpose, as your own light brightly shines.

Be, in every moment, the special someone you are truly meant to be.

--- Ralph Marston

My Blog

Ten Curious Things About "Puptruck"

Being a fairly transparent person, and, having revealed a fair amount about myself in my profile, it's a real "stumper" to answer this challenge tonight from my good friend Addie; very recently, from ...
Posted by I'm PROUD of YOU! on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 08:48:00 PST

Home from the Hospital . . . My Mother Dies!

As some of you know, I have been plagued with pressure sores on my derriere for nearly 5 yrs.--largely as an outgrowth of poor seating of a wheelchair I received in November 2002 from the work of a ki...
Posted by I'm PROUD of YOU! on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 07:17:00 PST

"Front Page 40" Friends

I trust everyone had a delightful holiday season and are now making plans now for a safe and enjoyable New Year's Day celebration observance! It will certainly be special for me; as it will be my firs...
Posted by I'm PROUD of YOU! on Mon, 31 Dec 2007 10:36:00 PST

A Democratic Dictatorship

As many of you know,  I am an ardent liberal Democrat; and, I make *no* apology for my P. O. V.!!! Nixon resigned as President "in disgrace" when I was 18, and it proved to be a personally "defin...
Posted by I'm PROUD of YOU! on Sun, 03 Sep 2006 07:51:00 PST