October 30, 2004

America's Godly Heritage

This title may not bring in the kind of numbers that that preacher from Houston does, but.....

Seriously, I was reading Greg's blog over at the Parish where he has a really interesting discussion on what the church could be. At the same time, I have been mulling over an email from a conservative evangelical detailing how our religious freedom is "under attack" and explaining that the words "separation of church and state" are not in the Constituion.

It is old news, at least for me. I remember very well receiving a video from an aquaintance that featured David Barton on why America was Godly at one time and then ceased to be (right about the time they took prayer out of schools and stopped forcing gay people into closets).

So, I have been thinking about this for a long time. I am a historian, of sorts. I know that our nation has a complicated religious history--and that our founders were complicated men who had religious ideas that we would both recognize and find odd.

But we do know that they decided on a Constitution that doesn't mention God. This is no accident. These people understood the problems of monarchy and of theocracy. They knew that mixing church and state ends up hurting both. Church becomes more institutionalized (eh, Greg?) and state finds itself picking between competing faiths. Better to have a secular government and let the faith run free. And run free it does. To Branch Davidians and Lakewood Baptist Church. From compounds and towers to ginormous church structures in America's suburbs.

I am asking why this isn't enough for my conservative evangelical friends? They are represented in the White House, Senate and House--with friends on the high court. They are on every corner--on every twist of the AM dial, and woven into our very political and cultural fabric. Yet they are mad about, what, a stone monument to the Ten Commandments? Or taking the phrase "Under God" out of our already fascist-leaning pledge?

I know why this bugs me. Christians seem to get worked up about the silliest shit. I have yet to see conservative evangelicals march to protest poverty, or to protect the environment, but they will turn out in huge numbers to support Mel's twisted vision, or bus themselves to Alabama to support an arrogant and twisted judge. Why will they boycott Disney over same-sex benifits, but turn a blind eye to toys made by children? It isn't the outrage that bothers me, it is the priority.

October 28, 2004

Bible Bar

Have I said that I find contemporary Christianity ridiculous? See, I went to Mardels yesterday. For those of you out of state, it is a Christian Bookstore in Oklahoma. They also sell office supplies and I needed some paper. So, I buy the paper and am checking out and what do I see? The LOGIA: BIBLE BAR at the counter! Yay! It's the Bible, but in a bar form. At first I had hopes of a theology surrounding liquid bread (beer), but that clearly wasn't the issue. Instead, we have a nutritional or energy bar wrapped in the very history of Christianity all for sale. Yah!

Reading their website is a bit annoying. Read this crap and tell me how different it is from the marketing that sells diapers by appealing to women's guilt? Here, it is promising (based on vague references in Dueteronomy or some book) that their commercial product is Godly! Holy Fuck! A commercial product straight from the mind of God! I say again... Yay.

Sheesh................

..Indeed. the concept of eating the right foods is so important to God that He wastes no time in the Bible instructing us on how to eat properly:

......And God said, "See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food." (Genesis 1:29)

......The plot thickens when the first man and woman are further instructed and warned that eating improperly will cost them their lives:

.......And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." (Genesis 2:16-17)

......It is easy to deduce two very important points then from these familiar scriptures as well as several others in the Bible. First of all, God most definitely has ordained a perfect eating plan for human beings – one that, when followed, will give us health, vitality, strength, long life, and yes. . . even wisdom. Secondly, eating the wrong foods can lead to unnecessary illnesses and even a premature death.

.......These two deductions form the core of what we at Logia call "Biblical Nutrition." It is our belief that God wants us to seek out these biblical principles of nutrition and diet as conveyed in the Holy Scriptures and then incorporate them into our daily lives.

......Furthermore, we believe that by eating properly, we enable our bodies to truly become the TEMPLE of the Holy Spirit and thus establish a closer bond with the LORD. Hence, Biblical Nutrition is not only about the physical needs of man, it is closely linked to our spiritual well being as well.

BIBLICAL NUTRITIONAL PRINCIPLES

All food should be eaten as close to its natural state as possible.
The more man processes his food, the less biblical it is.

Eating and drinking should always be done in moderation.

Artificial, man-made chemicals and additives should never be added to foods.

All foods should be grown organically as much as possible.

Fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, grains and nuts constitute the principle categories of Biblical Nutrition foods.

The Bible mentions several health building foods by name. We should strive to incorporate as many of these foods as possible into our diet.



. With these principles in mind, Logia has set out to bring to the world a line of biblically based foods formulated to present the utmost in both nutritional and spiritual benefits. Our assurance to you is that each and every product we offer is made of the highest grade, all natural and purest food sources available. Furthermore, we use true organic ingredients whenever and wherever possible. Our motto is to bring you nutrition truly as God intended.

. Consequently, each of our products, such as the Bible Bar, contains all of the natural vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber as placed in them by God Himself. None of our Logia food line is ever fortified with synthetic nutrients or artificial chemicals or additives. When you purchase any of our Logia foods of the Bible, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that they are the purest products on earth.

October 25, 2004

Ok, reality check

Yeah, it is Monday, and yes I am feeling frustrated. But it is also
time to do a little score card on this administration:

1) didn't control huge cache of weapons in Iraq. This after assuring
the world that wmd in the hands of terrorists was their worst
nightmare. And these explosives can be used in nukes.

2) speaking of nukes, the disbanded and not active nuclear program in
Iraq still had a lot of the infrastructure and means to develop
weapons. those were "looted" too. While we were guarding the oil
ministry and stopping the oil fields from going up in flames (the one
good thing they did), they allowed the insurgents to capture hugely
important assets.

so, where are we? This administration seems to be running on the idea
that their best contribution to America is keeping us safe. How have
they done that? This cache of weapons, for example, was under better
control before the war!

so, new questions:

1) when will this administration be held accountable for the huge
mistakes it has made? and one of them was invading a country on the
claims of wmd when there were none! Say you thought sure as hell they
were there, but still you have to admit you were wrong.

2) this has endangered the troops in Iraq to a horrible extent. will
the american people, even if they don't really care about the Middle
East decide that Bush is perhaps not as competent as he says he is?

3) how can anyone still give Bush credit for his honesty and truth?
listened to nPR the other day and heard this gushing woman talking
about how "honest and true" bush was. Really? He and his
administration knew about this weapons cache going missing for over a
year. but did not inform the international agency that tries to
monitor these things. And that is only one area where they have been
less than truthful. Just as they knew about the abu ghraib stuff for a
year prior (or 8 months at least) and did nothing.

Worst president ever! Starting to encroach on some of the third world
dictators for incompetence!

October 24, 2004

Even fundys questioning Bush

Gives me a little pause linking to this site. Just read how they justify their questions about their "Brother in Christ" and you will understand. I am not trying to be mean, but it is wackjob theology. "God has not given to President George W. Bush the type of decisive victories He gave to the biblical men He anointed to be national leaders." What? Huh?

Christians Doubting President Bush
Bush cousin voting for Kerry

I don't know if this means anything or not. I like the way this particular person articulates the problems with a Bush presidency v. his avowed Christian faith. My recent visitor said that Bush was a good Christian who cared about people and invaded countries to help people. Doubtful. In terms of policy, there is little doubt that Bush has favored the rich, the powerful and those at the top of the heap. He has, as a matter of policy, shown less concern for the poor, the environment, peace, and even civil discourse.

Now, will Kerry be dramatically better? I don't know. Some democrats actually secretly wonder if this election should be won. After all, whoever wins this November will have to address huge deficits and a horrible situation in Iraq. Be real easy for Repubs to just blame Kerry for things going badly.

I can't think that way. I think Bush is a very threat to our democratic process. In fact, I don't really think he believes in Democracy--and evidently, neither do his followers. And while there is little doubt that a Kerry win will not make us less divided as a country, it might stem some bleeding and allow us to incarcerate Tom Delay and some of the other criminals from the Right. Just kidding. Kind of.

content: "Jeanny House (Wisconsin): I'm voting for John Kerry because I'm a Christian. I know that my second cousin, George Bush, claims that he is the anointed leader of the American people and that God told him to run for office. I believe he may even believe that. I don't.

My Christian faith leads me to a concern for the poor and the marginalized, yet Bush's actions in office have repeatedly cut funding for health care, aid to failing schools, jobs programs, after school programs, Head Start, and many more services that provide real help and hope to those living in poverty. Under the Bush administration, over a million additional people have dropped below the poverty line. 1.2 million more have gone into 'deep poverty,' which is one-half the $18,810 for a family of four that defines 'poverty.'

My Christian faith leads me to a concern for the health and welfare of all of God's people, yet 45 million people in this country have no health insurance. The Bush administration, working hard to protect the interests of large, rich insurance companies, has done nothing to address the real health care crisis.

My Christian faith tells me the peacemakers are the blessed ones, yet George Bush wants to resurrect the Crusades, one of the most shameful experiences in Christian history. I fail to understand how lying to the people of the United States about any of the many justifications they have used for going to war in Iraq can be considered in any way, shape, or form a remotely Christian activity. Yes, Jesus once said, 'I come not to bring peace, but a sword.' He was talking about liberating his OWN people from within, not invading an oil-rich country out of purely selfish motives, then claiming it was for the liberation of others. The only true liberation comes when the oppressed claim it for themselves. This is something George Bush and his Imperialist cabal will never understand.

My Christian faith moves toward greater inclusiveness and acceptance, George Bush moves toward punishment, division, and exclusion. My Christian faith seeks to bring people into the circle of decision-making, George Bush seeks to keep them out. My Christian faith seeks to afford equal rights and responsibilities to all, George Bush seeks to reserve more rights for the privileged few.

My Christian faith is not looking for a new Messiah named George Bush."


October 20, 2004

Sorry!

If you came by earlier, you saw my exceptional post on Pat Robertson repeated 5 times. Cold in Laramie suggested that, while a good post, it wasn't worth repeating 5 times. I tend to disagree, but have bowed to the shaming effects of comments! :) Oh, and I experienced problems with Blogger. I swear.

This just in: Howard Dean is God

CNN.com - Robertson: I warned Bush on Iraq casualties - Oct 19, 2004: "'I mean, the Lord told me it was going to be A, a disaster, and B, messy,' Robertson said. 'I warned him about casualties.'"


That's right. Robertson heard from GOD that the Iraq war was a disaster. Howard Dean was the most vocal opponent before the war, so you do the math. Plus, GWB says he talks to the real God and he was clearly for the War. Said no casualties--minimal fuss--flowers, ice cream, etc. In other news, religious morons everywhere unsure how to manage the apparent contradiction, vow to buy the Passion of the Christ on DVD or an "I Heart God (the real one)" t-shirt to show their faith and calm their nerves.

October 19, 2004

Finally, Bush's faith challenged

American Prospect Online - ViewWeb: "This is a huge mistake, because when judged by his deeds, an entirely different picture emerges: Bush does not demonstrate a life of faith by his actions, and neither Methodists, evangelicals, nor fundamentalists can rightly call him brother. In fact, the available evidence raises serious questions about whether Bush is really a Christian at all.

Ironically for a man who once famously named Jesus as his favorite political philosopher during a campaign debate, it is remarkably difficult to pinpoint a single instance wherein Christian teaching has won out over partisan politics in the Bush White House. "

Exactly. That has been my question.

Media v. Politics?

Jon Stewart's recent performance on Crossfire has elicited a lot of responses, most of them positive. He has tapped into a lot of discontent with the way our media responds, or doesn't respond, to the public's needs. It is very easy to get caught up in the "liberal" v. "conservative" media argument. My conservative friends swear that the media is liberal and point to Dan Rather's recent memo-gate as evidence. Lefty bloggers point to talk radio, and the fact that CNN, MSNBC and network shows, if not very kind to Bush, bend over backward to present things equally. That results with Bush and Kerry both "having problems with the truth" in the debates, where in reality Bush misled far more than Kerry. But those media outlets hate to say that, because then they are tagged with the "liberal" media charge. Brilliant, from a tactical effort by the conservatives. Evil, but brilliant.

Jon Stewart, however, lambasted both Paul Begala AND Tucker Carlson for being partisan hacks. He didn't differentiate between the two parties and said that the media wasn't doing their job. In the Rolling Stone interview (only an excerpt online) Stewart went further and said that the CNN people simply had no sense of any journalistic duty and simply repeated what they were told. I was thinking about this again the other day, and it seems that our mistake is that we assume that contest here is between the Media and the Politicos for what the Public understands. This assumes an adversarial system between Journalists and Politicians. Politicians, we assume, dissemble and mislead because that is what Politicians do. They spin and pander and do whatever to get reelected. Our mistake is assuming that the Media really operates as a different species. Perhaps our mistake is understandable. We remember (or read about) Ed Murrow taking on Joe McCarthy, or Walter Cronkite reporting that Vietnam was not going well, or think of Robert Redford as Bob Woodward serving the country well by exposing a corrupt administration.

But since then? We have seen the prominence of TV over radio, and the rise of the 24 hour news channels. This has resulted, I think, in the merging of these two classes of people. Instead of Politicians and Journalists, we just have Celebrities. Chris Matthews and Tim Russert all worry about their market value for book tours, and speaking engagements. Their concern is not really to be insightful journalists, but to be successful celebrities. Think about how easily (thanks, L, for this insight) people move back and forth between the Entertainment, Political, and Journalistic classes. Joe Scarborough leaves Congress for his own tv show. Fred Thompson hit the nationals stage in Watergate, moved from their to films (Hunt for Red October and the second Die Hard) then ran for Senate. Now he plays a DA from NY who makes statements on laws he voted on in real life. Weird. Sean Hannity does his bit on Fox then works as a voice over for the RNC video.

No one sees a contradiction with all that, yet they really expect the "media" to challenge the Pols? To be fair, there are still some real journalists out there (and I am not talking about Jon Stewart), but they are outnumbered and minimized in the new InfoPolTainment industry. I just made that up, but does anyone think it isn't real?
Here it is: Annual Christian overreaction to Halloween

2theadvocate.com: News - Baker officials hope to ban 'satanic' holiday 10/16/04: "What disturbs some people about Halloween, particularly church leaders, is its association with witchcraft and anti-Christian values, Russell said.

At the council meeting, Russell declared, 'We are a Christian city. Jesus is lord over Baker.'"

For those who missed it, here are some quotes from the very good King of the Hill Episode on this issue. I really thought that KOTH was over the top, but now we see that it was dead on.

LUANNE: Uncle Hank, Aunt Peggy, I have terrible news. Halloween is a Satanic holiday! It was invented by the Druish!

JUNIE: So you told him about the Druids and the candy-corn and he still thinks Halloween is just for fun?
LUANNE: Uh-huh. I felt so stupid.
JUNIE: Oh, no. First of all, in the eyes of the Lord you're a genius. The devil likes to fool you into thinking you're stupid, because it makes it easier for him to trick you. But if you think you're smart, you can resist him. Do you see what I'm saying?
LUANNE: I'm not sure.
JUNIE: SATAN BEGONE!!! Now do you see?
LUANNE: Yes.

PRINCIPAL MOSS: We can't afford another lawsuit. We blew our budget fighting wheelchair ramps and left-handed scissors.

LUANNE: Junie Harper says a haunted house is the Devil's mousetrap, and fun is the cheese.
HANK: Luanne, just when I think you've said the stupidest thing ever, you keep talking.
LUANNE: Junie says I'm smart, so don't try to trick me into thinking I'm not!

HANK: "Junie Harper says, Junie Harper says" -- last time I checked, it wasn't Junie Harper's face in the stained-glass window at Arlen First Methodist.

BOBBY: I don't know, Dad, this is vandalism, and vandalism isn't cool.
HANK: Bobby, that attitude is a little immature.

PEGGY: I go to church too, and I have raffled and bingoed and bake-saled my way as close to the good Lord as you. So do not try to one-up me, because I will one-up yours.
JUNIE: "The complacency of fools will destroy them." -- Proverbs.
HANK: "Get out of my house." -- Exodus.

DALE: The vandalism upon my house can only be described as a hate crime. Somebody hates me.
COUNCILMAN: Let the record show that somebody hates Dale Gribble.

BOBBY: I heard Satanists like my dad always sacrifice virgins, so we both better be careful.
LUANNE (after a beat): Oh! Uh, m-hm.

JUNIE: I guess the old saying is true: Sex kills.

MAN: Where's grandpa?
(Enter a man in a gorilla suit.)
JUNIE: Ugh! That's your grandpa?
MAN: Haven't you heard? Our ancestors are monkeys!
WOMAN: Stop him! He's eating the baby!
MAN: We can't. It's against the law to teach creationism.

LUANNE: I think that it's better for a child to recieve wholesome impressions from established religious authorities... than participate in rituals that are conducted by people who really don't even realize that they are pawns of the devil.
PEGGY: Whoa, little Missy, I have had it up to here with your baloney! I have taken you into my home, I have sheltered and fed you, but if you step between my husband and his son, I will cast you out like yesterday's garbage!
LUANNE: But, but --
PEGGY: Uh-uh. From now on you leave the parenting to us. We get a magazine about it.

HANK: I came very close to spitting out beer.

BOOMHAUER: Hey, man, check it out, don't need no dang ol' costume, man, I'm a dang ol' mime, man, 'cause I'm tryin' to get out of this box, man... next I'll play dang ol' tug of war, man.

DALE: Boo! I am a high-priced Washington lobbyist peddling influence. Who wants candy?

JUNIE: You'll go to hell!
HANK: You'll get candy!
JUNIE: Hell!
HANK: Candy!
JUNIE: Hell!
HANK: Candy!
BOBBY: Stop! I don't care about candy! I just want to be with my dad.

BOBBY: Hey, Dad, I was just kidding before. I care about candy. I care a whole lot.

October 18, 2004

Bush is too a Christian--Streak should be nice

I had a visitor today, and cannot resist. So, Michelle, Dallas, TX (and thank you for at least signing your name), you are welcome to return. But in the meantime.....

Michelle says:

"President Bush acts as a Christian where it counts most, in his heart. Just like most of the human race, people sin, no one is perfect. He cries with families who are hurt by terrorists, that is him being a Christian. He flies to where his troops are to be with them when it matters most, that is him being a Christian. He visits the people that need help and does what he can to offer a hand and that is him being a Christian.


Actually, Michelle, he has not attended a single funeral and everything else you have described has no connection to Christianity. I hope he has cried with the families of the soldiers who died for his war. I have never said that he had no heart, and in fact, I said he was probably sincere when he said he had faith, but that doesn't mean action. Has he changed the way that politicians respond to each other? Maybe treated an adversary different? No. He has lied and dissembled and done the things that politicians do. But stating that you will ruin someone's reputation is not Christian. And don't forget South Carolina, where he spread a rumor that John McCain had fathered an illegitimate black baby. Is that Christian, Michelle? Can you imagine Jesus doing that?

While Kerry will say what he 'should' say depending on what type of group he is speaking to, Bush stands for what he believes in - you won't see him 'flip flop' on the important issues.


I will acknowledge that Kerry has flip-flopped on some issues, and can certainly be accused of hedging, but to say that Bush stands for what he believes, is, well, naive. Bush has flip-flopped on everything from the 9-11 commission to the Homeland Security as a Cabinet position. He said nation building was a bad idea, now he is doing it, well, badly. So, Michelle, you will need to put down the RNC talking points if you come back here. The main difference between us is that I don't worship Kerry. You worship Bush.


I am so sick and tired of people from different backgrounds being 'insulted' by this and that. People came to America to be American's. With that comes the United States flag, the Pledge of Allegiance, and freedom of religion (and not just one type).


I have no idea what you are saying here. I guess you are arguing for the melting pot theory. Hmm. Well, speaking of naive, I am also guessing that your family background is intensely WASPish.

You note that Republicans are trumpeting their 'family values', well where were you after 9-11 when people from other countries were insulted by our very own American Flag?


Oh yes, Bravo, Michelle! Family values=flag waving? I thought it had to do with families and, well, values. Michelle, did you ever think that some other people out there in the world don't love us as much as you do? Perhaps if they feel their individual interests are being endangered (maybe with our bombs) that they might not find comfort in our flag? Hmm? Or have y ou been so indoctrinated with our secular religion of American worship that you really do think that our country was somehow breathed into existence by God?

People are entitled to their own opinion, that is one of the great things about the USA. At the same time, if I feel gay marriage is wrong; you have the choice to be for it. How wonderful is that. On that note, where did prayer in school go? The Pledge of Allegiance? If you don't want to pray then don't, but don't ridicule me for it.


I don't remember ridiculing anyone for praying. But since you brought it up, Michelle, forcing anyone to say a Pledge is fascist. I know your parents taught you different, and you are shocked to hear it, but this is exactly the kinds of things they did in Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. That doesn't make us either communist or fascist, but forcing people to love America is antithetical to our very values.

You shouldn't condemn a whole political party for individual beliefs. I am proud to say that President Bush stands for something, and that something is FREEDOM! The freedom to believe in God and express his beliefs. The freedom to fly the United States flag whereever and whenever he wants to. The freedom to say a prayer and not just before supper, but during the day, perhaps at work even! Just as I would never ask someone who is Buddhist to stop saying a prayer, I expect the same respect from all nationalities. God Bless America and thank you President George W. Bush for being a Christian, an American and the best dang President you can be.
Michelle - Dallas, TX"


Again with the prayer. Pray all you fucking want, Michelle. It might be hard for you to read, but I believe in God too. I am a straight, married male, who pays his taxes, and treats his spouse with respect. I love my country, and respect my institutions. If you read more of my stuff, you will see that. I am critical of this President and his Christian friends for not holding him accountable for his faith. Kerry doesn't claim to get his marching orders from God. Bush does. And so I expect him to act accordingly. I expect him to not just love rich people, and to turn the other cheek on occasion, and to hate war, and to care for the sick and the needy--not just in a photo opp, but in policy. I expect him to not ridicule a woman on death row. I expect him not to act like John Wayne when describing war. I expect a President to read more than Oswald Chambers. I expect a lot from him. And I am perpetually disappointed.

But thanks for stopping by. I can see that I made you mad. Perhaps that is a good thing. In Dallas, you are probably surrounded by angry Longhorn fans and Dubya devotees. It is good that you are out on the web reading ideas counter to yours. Feel free to come back and comment.

Dubya's Beatitudes

Well, the election is two weeks away. I must say, this has been one of the more grueling ones I can remember. I have really grown to hate the opposition on this one, and I don't remember feeling that strongly before. And that feeling is growing--necessitating these weekly rants to keep me from running amok.

Let me congratulate the Republicans for so dividing the country further. In Oklahoma, as well as several other states, conservatives are trumpeting their "family values" nonsense by putting anti-gay marriage legislation on the ballots. Real mystery what will happen here, since we are so enlightened. It isn't that I don't understand the concern about gay marriage, but the lockstep approach that could end up endangering the kids. In Ohio, the language is so vague that even some Repubs are opposed to it. It could, from what I read, make the state not enforce any legislation for unmarried couples, and that could even include a protective service order--something near and dear to my heart. But hey, if they are unmarried, screw em! Right? Anyone who doesn't fit the white, suburban ideal of sexuality or marriage? Screw them! This is America, where differences are not tolerated! And should not be!!!!!

On other fronts, I was talking to a friend of mine yesterday. She mentioned how offended she was whenever she heard Bush say he was a Christian. Was this because she is opposed to Christians and doesn't want people of faith in office? No. She was offended because she saw actions that seemed so very opposite to the teachings of Christ, yet so many Christians seem to glow when they talk about Bush as one of them in office. I keep asking for any evidence that Bush has acted like a Christian (except talking about how "important" his faith is to him). Still no takers. Doesn't that seem odd? Evidently Bush is allowed to keep saying he is a Christian and get great credits from it, but is not expected to actually live out his faith. Really makes me respect the Christian church right now. Sure glad they are so concerned about family values and morality to support this guy. I sometimes wonder what his faith is all about, if it is even real? I suspect he thinks he is Christian and is being honest when he says so, but his ideas about Christianity are so super thin that he couldn't answer a complicated question about what his faith is really about. The fact that the church hasn't asked him means they are fine with that. Way to go, Church. You are really holding up your end in this deal. As it turns out, I think the American church is just as slutty as so many others in the country. They can be bought off with a $300 check and a few vapid words about how "God changed my heart." Really? Be interesting to know just how ruthless and amoral he was prior to that so-called conversion. But again, that is asking too many questions. I am supposed to respect his faith, and somehow overlook the fact that I have never seen him act on even the smallest portion of his supposed "relationship" with God.

So, with all due respect to those on the other side, I give you:

The Beatitudes according to GWB:

Blessed are the Rich, because I like them.

Blessed are the Poor as well, because we are getting so many more of them. God must like poor people, and he will take care of them, so that the wealthy will not have to.

Blessed are the warmakers, because it is a scary world and you have to hit them before they hit you. Thus and verily so. Killing others is good! And we will not record how many of the others we kill, because that might cause bleeding hearts to care. Caring is bad.

Blessed are the polluters, because mercury in the water and fish will only harm the infants and pregnant women (family values).

Blessed are the torturers, because we must protect ourselves in a scary world.

Blessed are those who lie for their President's sake, for their ends shall justify their means. (and if the President can lie, why not his minions?)

Blessed is John Ashcroft, and his racist little heart, for white supremacy is a good goal, and civil liberties have always gone too far.

Blessed are the gay bashers, because they will always have an audience who is scared of others.

Blessed are those who profit, because profit is the highest form of human endeavor and should be valued over people and God's creation.

Blessed are those who proclaim their Christianity without living it out.

And finally, Bless America, and no one else.

October 17, 2004

Christian stores

Both Greg, Ben and Brandon have addressed this issue recently. There seems to be an uptick in both Christian MegaSuperBookstores and even small bookstores within Church campuses. Of course, in Houston, there is a McDonalds on a church property, so perhaps the bookstore looks innocuous by comparison.

I think the central question is: Can Christianity be sold just like any other trend and fad? If so, is that good?

I posed this question to my Baptist friend and he said that there was nothing wrong with the Christian Bookstores. But what about the shopping baskets filled with geegaws and trinkets, asks me. He says, so you prefer plaques and statuettes that are maybe Satanic? So, there is nothing wrong with bibles for pregnant women or Promise Keepers, says me. He responds, so you would begrudge a person buying another Bible even if they read it and use it?

I think I am not communicating here, AND possibly channeling Fafnir in the process. So, just for grins, I went to crossings.com (not recommended) and just surfed their bibles. Here are a few titles: CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL® BIBLE, which boasts: "Take a seat at the Lord’s table and warm your spirit with this special helping of Chicken Soup! Dozens of personal stories, both classic and new, are collected and applied to the Scriptures in this complete New Living Translation Bible. 1,664 pages." Or how about this one: HOLY BIBLE: ARMED SERVICES EDITION : "Created especially for those in military service, this 2,000-page paperback edition of the Good News Translation has a camouflage cover and fits in uniform pockets. Includes a guide to relevant Scripture, hymns, a concordance and more." Evidently, the regular bible not only makes you vulnerable to sniper attack, but is lacking critical anti-Iraqi verses. Then there is a Max Lucado devotional bible which supplements the classic ancient wisdom of the bible with "new material from Max Lucado's writings." WooHoo! Then there is an eBible, which includes "One-Click technology" that allows you to "create prayers lists, reports, word studies and more." They have an African American bible, a Crossings version "includes devotionals from Max Lucado, James Dobson, and so many, many more! 1,952 pages; words of Christ in red." Whew. Thought that some might confuse those guys.

But my favorites are the Thomas and Nanette Kinkade "Reflections from the Heart of God" "woman's devotional Bible" that includes the "art and wisdom of acclaimed artist Thomas Kinkade and his wife Nanette." Evidently, not only is it a bible, but collectible art! But Kinkade's famously ipecac inspired art isn't enough. The next one is called "Holy Bible: Woman Thou Art Loosed!" edited by T.D. Jakes. Am I the only one who thinks this one might be a little kinky? But no fear, this one combines "T.D. Jakes' words and God's Holy Scripture (NKJV)." And lastly, there is the NIV Mom's Devotional Bible. For the Mother who has only 52 weeks to ordain her motherhood with Godly goodness, there is only one Bible. In fact, if you are a mother and don't have this Bible, you might not be a Christian.
Ok, I made that part up.

Sorry, but this is seriously messed up. I have no clue what the Bible really means, and have little desire to read it for some time. But how far are we from the Britney Spears version (hint: it is the sexy version) or perhaps Madonna could have one (The Holy Bible with the latest writings from the Material Girl! Jesus words in red, Madonna's in puce, 1,763 pages; $59.95!!!!).

That's it. I am going to Starbucks. I have no illusions about this consumerism. I am buying the coffee because my inner voices tell me to. But I know that inner voice is my own self--not T. D. Freaking Jakes combining his stupidity with some things supposedly inspired by God.

A latte. That is what I will have. Forthwith.

October 15, 2004

Pirates and Emperors, Oh My!

Clever sendup of the Schoolhouse Rock videos that addresses the arrogance of power. Pretty good, really. From Boing Boing.

Pirates & Emperors

October 14, 2004

What kind of scumbag price gouges flu vaccine?

Some Suppliers Jack Up Flu Vaccine Price (washingtonpost.com): "In Fort Lauderdale, Meds-Stat offered supplies of Fluzone as late as last Friday, according to a copy of a fax offering. That same day, the company offered a Kansas City pharmacy the vaccine at a price that amounted to $90 a dose, according to a lawsuit filed by the Kansas attorney general. The pharmacy was seeking flu shots for nursing home patients. The suit accused Meds-Stat of violating consumer rights.


Meds-Stat said in a written response yesterday that it had not seen the lawsuit but was 'confident that we have done nothing wrong.'"

October 13, 2004

Bush disappointed by partisanship

Wonders why painting democrats as anti-american traitors could have turned them against him. Why the bitter divide? Why the hatred, asks Bush? Is it my divisiveness? Is it my hatred?

Bush smiles sadly and talks about how much his mother scares him.
Kerry quotes Bible

Notes that Bible calls for us to be more attuned to our neighbors. Bush responds with "I love my neighbors but love to bomb them more."
Bush assures America he loves God.

America assured. God freaked out. Changes number.
Bush assures America that he has met Black people

Can't talk about jobs, but can talk about No Chile Left Ahind.

Hopes that people can read and addd and subtract early. Help avoid being doofus president. Save valuable lives.
Bush shocks conservative right

Supports background check. Suggests that there are actually people who should not have guns. John Ashcroft declares Bush legally insane and says he now "in charge."

More news later.
Bush shockingly consistent

Is against the global test. Because he knows the true horror of tests at pinhead colleges like Hale and Yarvard. Test keep redneck millionaires from their appointed rounds.
No Chile Left Ahind

Bush has now reassured me. It isn't jobs that are the problem, or poverty, or asbestos. It is education. And we are not leaving enough children behind. If we don't leave more behind, we will have to educate them and possibly execute them. LEAVE THEM BEHIND!!!
We have much more manpower on the Borders

Bush smirking and still lying. I am starting to twitch.

Ooh, a minimum wage question. More people falling into poverty. But wait, John Kerry. I though that Bush's magical tax cuts would cure cancer AND pull people out of poverty. What are you saying you liberal lackey of the fat and unlikeable Ted Kennedy? Are you suggesting that people could be poor while the great Bush is cutting their taxes and poisoning their air.

It is clear. John Kerry is a communist. COMMUNIST!!!
I was a border governor

I swear. Everytime he smiles in triumph at having connected a verb to a noun, I want to puke. PUKE, I SAY!!!!

I wonder how the Yankees are doing.......
Bush assures worried public that tax cuts went to middle class

Viewers should not look behind curtains. Any curtains. None. HEY, you put that blind down! If you look, you might discover that Bush actually rewarded rich people. I AM NOT GOING TO WARN YOU AGAIN!!

Kerry about fiscal responsibility

Bush makes jokes. But hasn't vetoed single bill in his term. What, he not understand the concept?
Social Security. In other news, Bush jumps on third rail and screams like a hillbilly

Just noted Daniel Patrick Moynahan. Proudly. Can pronounce Moynahan. The late Senator would have absolutely taken this guy apart. And his dog.
Kerry zinger

Bush a liar. Bush cuts VA funding. Tells Kerry lies. Says that he cares about veterans. Streak is not impressed.
Bush is concerned about credible

He cares about credibility. Cares greatly, because he cares about truth and justice and freedom and pies. Cares! Cares, I tell you! Respond favorably to Bush caring.

Sorry for the Giblets moment.
Bush a jerk, revisited

all I have right now. Think it is apparent.
Medical industry not using computers

According to Prez, the healthcare industry doesn't use Information Technology enough. Luckily, Streak's other friend used to work in that field. She jumped in to support Bush. She said that healthcare companies aren't useing a single computer. Not to examine prostate tumors. Not to manage their billing and Medicare issues. Whew. I was worried that Bush was wrong. But he is right. Healthcare is avoiding the dangerous computers much like the deadly asbestos.
Will Bush acknowledge responsibility?

Almost scared me. Thought that Bush would say that the administration had done something (about healthcare costs going up), but he didn't. Said, jokingly, "I hope it isn't the administration (who is to blame)."

I really hate him. and his monkey smirk.
Bush is a liar

Someone, I think it was New Donkey, said that Bush would resort to the "liberal, liberal, liberal."

Kerry just quoted the Bible. That a low blow. Pointed out that Christians are supposed to actually live their faith. Conservative Evangelicals keep saying that Bush is a christian, but don't expect him to act on it. Bush just said, btw, that "every bean is a life."

I like legumes. Good for Bush.
Bush is flailing

While John Kerry might gesticulate at will, Bush seems to be practicing karate chops. And I think I could take him with what I learned from the Karate Kid.

Live Blogging

Bush lies. Lies. Has learned to say "litany."

"you have more money in your pocket as a result of our tax cuts."

Of course, your other fees have gone up. Economy down. Wages down. You are better off because I say so.

Bush is a liar. And looks like a monkey. And is always pleased when he completes a sentence. And I don't mean that is a complete sentence, but it is a sentence that is ended.


My wife says Bush is a jerk

That was in response to the line of Kennedy being the conservative senator from Mass. Of course, his statements are drawn from the National Journal, the same one that says that Republicans are misstating their findings.

As if truth has any bearing on the matter.

Oh, and changing the constitution is good because it gets the states involved. Bush is a jerk. She is right.

Bush is flailing

While John Kerry might gesticulate at will, Bush seems to be practicing karate chops. And I think I could take him with what I learned from the Karate Kid.

Bush is a liar

Someone, I think it was New Donkey, said that Bush would resort to the "liberal, liberal, liberal."

Kerry just quoted the Bible. That a low blow. Pointed out that Christians are supposed to actually live their faith. Conservative Evangelicals keep saying that Bush is a christian, but don't expect him to act on it. Bush just said, btw, that "every bean is a life."

I like legumes. Good for Bush.

Will Bush acknowledge responsibility?

Almost scared me. Thought that Bush would say that the administration had done something (about healthcare costs going up), but he didn't. Said, jokingly, "I hope it isn't the administration (who is to blame)."

I really hate him. and his monkey smirk.

Medical industry not using computers

According to Prez, the healthcare industry doesn't use Information Technology enough. Luckily, Streak's other friend used to work in that field. She jumped in to support Bush. She said that healthcare companies aren't useing a single computer. Not to examine prostate tumors. Not to manage their billing and Medicare issues. Whew. I was worried that Bush was wrong. But he is right. Healthcare is avoiding the dangerous computers much like the deadly asbestos.

Bush a jerk, revisited

all I have right now. Think it is apparent.

Bush is concerned about credible

He cares about credibility. Cares greatly, because he cares about truth and justice and freedom and pies. Cares! Cares, I tell you! Respond favorably to Bush caring.

Sorry for the Giblets moment.

Kerry zinger

Bush a liar. Bush cuts VA funding. Tells Kerry lies. Says that he cares about veterans. Streak is not impressed.

Social Security. In other news, Bush jumps on third rail and screams like a hillbilly

Just noted Daniel Patrick Moynahan. Proudly. Can pronounce Moynahan. The late Senator would have absolutely taken this guy apart. And his dog.

Kerry about fiscal responsibility

Bush makes jokes. But hasn't vetoed single bill in his term. What, he not understand the concept?

Bush assures worried public that tax cuts went to middle class

Viewers should not look behind curtains. Any curtains. None. HEY, you put that blind down! If you look, you might discover that Bush actually rewarded rich people. I AM NOT GOING TO WARN YOU AGAIN!!

I was a border governor

I swear. Everytime he smiles in triumph at having connected a verb to a noun, I want to puke. PUKE, I SAY!!!!

I wonder how the Yankees are doing.......

We have much more manpower on the Borders

Bush smirking and still lying. I am starting to twitch.

Ooh, a minimum wage question. More people falling into poverty. But wait, John Kerry. I though that Bush's magical tax cuts would cure cancer AND pull people out of poverty. What are you saying you liberal lackey of the fat and unlikeable Ted Kennedy? Are you suggesting that people could be poor while the great Bush is cutting their taxes and poisoning their air.

It is clear. John Kerry is a communist. COMMUNIST!!!

No Chile Left Ahind

Bush has now reassured me. It isn't jobs that are the problem, or poverty, or asbestos. It is education. And we are not leaving enough children behind. If we don't leave more behind, we will have to educate them and possibly execute them. LEAVE THEM BEHIND!!!

Bush shockingly consistent

Is against the global test. Because he knows the true horror of tests at pinhead colleges like Hale and Yarvard. Test keep redneck millionaires from their appointed rounds.

Bush shocks conservative right

Supports background check. Suggests that there are actually people who should not have guns. John Ashcroft declares Bush legally insane and says he now "in charge."

More news later.

Bush assures America that he has met Black people

Can't talk about jobs, but can talk about No Chile Left Ahind.

Hopes that people can read and addd and subtract early. Help avoid being doofus president. Save valuable lives.

Bush assures America he loves God.

America assured. God freaked out. Changes number.

Kerry quotes Bible

Notes that Bible calls for us to be more attuned to our neighbors. Bush responds with "I love my neighbors but love to bomb them more."

Bush disappointed by partisanship

Wonders why painting democrats as anti-american traitors could have turned them against him. Why the bitter divide? Why the hatred, asks Bush? Is it my divisiveness? Is it my hatred?

Bush smiles sadly and talks about how much his mother scares him.
My wife says Bush is a jerk

That was in response to the line of Kennedy being the conservative senator from Mass. Of course, his statements are drawn from the National Journal, the same one that says that Republicans are misstating their findings.

As if truth has any bearing on the matter.

Oh, and changing the constitution is good because it gets the states involved. Bush is a jerk. She is right.
Busy week

Light blogging this week. I guess it has just been a busy time. Grading papers and another exam coming up. I found an interesting comment on a blog post from a while back and the anonymous visitor suggested I "vote with my feet." Is that a polite way of telling me to move to Canada? I am interested. Even though it is cold. Still interested.

October 9, 2004

Connect?

The broader challenge for us in this household is how we can remain connected to our broader world without losing our minds. I had a little breakdown last night--maybe not over Lo Mein (REK ref)--but I was in full throat and angry as hell. That costs me a lot. My sleep patterns suffer, my insides hurt, my stress level (already high) goes up. How do we participate and do what we can without losing our minds? How do I participate and not end up disparaging my bush-supporting friends and relatives?

Any suggestions?

Need some Wood?

To be fair to the Prez, I was confused during this portion of the debate. Partially because I was live blogging and partially because I was chatting with a friend about the sorry state of our democracy if this guy is President. But anyway, back to the wood. Pandagon nailed that pretty well: "10:10 P.M. - Bush didn't have an answer for Kerry's point that he counts as a small businessperson because he derives minor income from a lumber company. Bush tries to make the audience laugh, pretty much fails, and, I think, asks John Kerry for anal sex."

Brad Delong points to the Factcheck.org! to address the whole Timber thing. Bush really should know more about, well lots of stuff. "President Bush doesn't understand that in 2001 he claimed to be part-owner of a timber-growing business, and so fell under his own definition of 'small business owner.' Perhaps he should follow Cheney's advice--or what Cheney's advice should have been--to check factcheck.org:

'President Bush himself would have qualified as a 'small business owner' under the Republican definition, based on his 2001 federal income tax returns. He reported $84 of business income from his part ownership of a timber-growing enterprise. However, 99.99% of Bush's total income came from other sources that year. (Bush also qualified as a 'small business owner' in 2000 based on $314 of 'business income,' but not in 2002 and 2003 when he reported his timber income as 'royalties' on a different tax schedule.) "

Hmm. So where am I this morning? Better. I have read enough other progressive bloggers to know that I am not the only one who thought that Kerry did great and that Bush was more animated and aggressive, but still bad. So, I have postponed my plans for moving to Canada (for now) and am back to some sense of relative calm.

But a few things I won't tolerate:

"Bush is a good Christian" You can only say that if you can point to one example that isn't the doofus saying he is a Christian. I keep waiting for one of the questions to ask him if his faith actually calls on him to treat anyone better. So, unless you can bring the example, keep your "good Christian man" crap to yourself.

"Everyone else thought he had WMD too" So what? Bush is the only one who invaded on that belief. Here is something that really bothers me. Say I concede that point--that Kerry and Clinton and all the others thought he had WMD and needed to be taken out. We got in there and despite what liar said last night, the most recent report does not support his claims of WMD or intent or whatever. But we do know that there aren'ty any WMD. Any chance at all that he have to acknowledge that he was wrong? Speaking of that, he has been asked repeatedly about what mistakes he has made and still can't do it. That relates to point one, and is a huge character issue. He has none. None!

October 8, 2004

Post Debate rant

listened to a little of the post-debate crap and it was just that. Crap. I couldn't believe watching that debate how Kerry did a great job and I hear jackasses crowing about Bush. Kerry did a great job. Bush didn't glower and stumble. So, somehow, he wins.

People are morons. Morons. I have friends who vote for Bush who are actually up on the issues and they bother me greatly. I don't know how anyone looks at these two people and still thinks that Bush is anything other than a chimp who proves evolution (or disproves, I am not sure which--either one disparages monkeys, I am sure of that). The ones who scare me are the ones who aren't either smart enough or patient enough to find out anything about these two people. And they will vote for Bush because he is a committed christian. By committed, I mean, he says he is, and by Christian, I mean he is an asshole. Because he isn't anything close to a follower of Christ.

so, here is my statement on this before I start to turn off and stop voting. I say to my colleagues and friends who vote for Bush and I say this: if you still think this chimp is a good leader, then you can have him. If you do, you will get a supreme court who will possibly help you on abortion, but will take away more of your rights. He will ruin more of the environment. He will probably invade more countries. More people will die. We won't be any safer. And you will get exactly what you deserve.

At some point in the future, you will recognize that you voted for a moron. You will recognize that you were "gamed," that you were "conned" and that the country was the worse for it. At some point you will recognize that. And I will say, "fuck off." I told you he was bad in 2000. I warned you that his faith was a mirage. I warned you that he wasn't genuine or smart or good. He was political and base and power seeking. And you shushed me. And told me that a moron couldn't be President. That a moron couldn't fool that many people. That he couldn't be ruining the environment as bad as I said. Well breathe now! Because that may be a luxury we think back to like free water or mercury/arsenic free water. Or trees.

I am done. I am as dissolussioned as I can be right now. The media is busy patting a moron on the back and talking about how "manly" he was. Good god. I have to go puke.

Goodnight. And hopefully dream of a functional democracy.
Bush is an Environmental President

Clear skies initiative

healthy forests initiative

wildlife. and the habitats

"I have flown over them."

"I am a good steward of the land."

"More land restored."

"I said to you the facts. The air is cleaner." I Say the Air is Cleaner
Let me ask this very slowly

What is up with GWB criticizing Kerry for fiscal conservatism? When has Bush been a fiscal conservative?
Bush is starting to Glare

I really think that Bush is starting to hate Kerry. And that is only fair. Because I hate him. Really. No longer a political game. I hate his swagger--the way he holds his arms away from his body to make himself look bigger. I hate his smirk. And his grin. Oh wait, that is the smirk.

Bush is a big, BIG liar.
Bush is a big fat liar

I am really starting to hate him. Let's get this straight: Bush criticizing Kerry for sponsoring new spending? Bush? And that swagger. It really sucks.
If he doesn't stop winking....

I swear to Gawd, if Bush doesn't stop winking at everyone in the fucking room, I might vomit. I am not kidding. Puke coming. Blowing chow. All those things. Are there any women who find him attractive? Can one of them comment about the "sexiness" of GWB? Gawddd!!!!


Puke...
YOU FORGOT POLAND!!!!

Of course, Poland is now pulling out.
BUSH: WE ARE IN CONTROL

We are moving troops around. We are in control. "We are flying unmanned vehicles that mean that I can avoid my service and still look heroic."

"If we had these unmanned vehicles in 1972, I wouldn't have had to drink my way out of the Guard."
Bush is a fucking liar.

"We are paying attention."
Bush is a fucking liar

"President's job is to win the peace." Well struck, Mr. Senator.
Kerry is right. Seriously.

Bush rushed to war.
Bush continued

"I have made some decision that have made people to not understand our great principles." Are you shitting me? Still passive. Still avoiding any kind of acknowledgement. Still not my problem. Others just don't understand.

"Palestinians still need a leadership devoted to democracy." What about us? Are we still devoted to a democracy?
Bush is a Jerk

I am starting to truly hate the smirking bastard. "I talk with Tony Blair all the time."

What a jerk.

He is a very advanced primate. But I am starting to think that Koko would take him. Seriously.
Bush now taking notes

What is he writing? Is he drawing some kind of caricature? Making Kerry have a big face? Is he drawing Iraq with a happy face? Maybe Laura Bush with a "I heart George?"

Bush is still a moron. He is still wrong. And still a smirking bastard.
Oh Gawd, I reallly don't like Bush

Snap. Kerry scored there.
Live Blogging cont.

"I tried diplomacy."

Justifies invasion based on the fact that SADDAM WAS GAMING THE OIL FOR FOOD PROGRAM?

WTF? LIAR, LIAR, LIAR.
Debate Blogging

Bush is a liar. And he misrepresents Kerry's positions.

Question (shorter version): why do you keep lying about WmD?

Answer (shorter): 9-11

October 7, 2004

Boing Boing: Best VP debate parody image EVAR

Parody or reality? You decide.
I Can't... I'm Mormon :: Home

Just funny. Funny.
New Donkey says Bush changing tactics

Yes. Bush is scared.

NewDonkey.com: "Here Comes the Bush Pivot
I've been figuring for a while now that BC04 would eventually begin to pivot at least partially from the 'flip-flop' attacks on John Kerry to the more conventional conservative argument that JK is an old-fashioned, big-government, tax and spend liberal.

If Bush's new stump speech, unveiled today in the NE Pennsylvania cockpit of one battleground state, is any indication, the pivot is fully underway. It's a very primitive and totally negative speech, emblematic of a president who can't claim the political center and thus is determined to shove his opponent to the fringes by sheer assertion and extensive misrepresentation of his record. Aside from focusing on some random 1972 Kerry statement on the role of the UN (we all know how substantive Bush was three decades ago, right?), the speech repeats the usual GOP lies about Kerry's defense record; accuses Kerry of an inveterate desire to raise taxes and expand government; and heavily features the one-year 'most liberal Senator' rating of Kerry by the National Journal, a claim the DLC demolished months ago.

It's hard to believe that the president, whose fiscal record is a disaster, and whose administration and party bestride Washington like a colossus, is trying to make John Kerry the candidate of Big Government and of runaway federal spending. But if we know anything about BC04, it's that it treats facts and reason, and the intelligence of the American people, with equal contempt.

Get ready for some real outrages."

October 6, 2004

Want note this interesting new blog

Ben here works at a Christian Bookstore (poor bastard) and is willing to write about it. So far, it rates very well in my book. I am SO glad to hear that other people find these places creepy. And speaking of that, here is a great post on Christian commercial crap:

They Will Know Us By Our T-Shirts: Do Not Pass Go, Do Not Collect $200: "Do Not Pass Go, Do Not Collect $200

Yesterday, I discovered Left Behind-The Movie TM Board Game (yes, that’s the official title). I especially enjoy the flames of hell that appear at one corner of the board. I wonder if the loser misses out on the rapture and is forced to spend eternity on a post-apocalyptic earth (insert your own joke about New Jersey).

How do you market a game like that? Imagine being in the marketing meeting trying to come up with slogans for the game.
“You’re not just playing to win, you’re playing for your life.”
“Buy the board game or Kirk Cameron will make a sequel. Go ahead; test us.”
“The most important board game – ever.”
“The board game that will save your friends from hell.”
I wonder if they have Left Behind lunchboxes?"

October 5, 2004

Oh, Halliburton is just a smokescreen!

Liar. Lying monkey Jabba toad.
Jesus!

Not sure I can take much more of lying sack. Dick Cheney lies every damn day.

I am glad to see John Edwards go after him a little. "Demeaning the contributions of the Iraqi people?" Are you kidding me? Would they be carrying those casualties if Cheney had an ounce of decency?
Dick Cheney is Jabba the Hut

It just hit me. Fat. No neck. Notorious criminal. Liar. Did I say fat?
Go Edwards!

Finally, someone calls Cheney on his stance on defense budget.

Halliburton

Halliburton

Halliburton

Lying sack.
Cheney lying

I am starting to get a little redundant here. But Cheney is speaking again, and that means he is lying.
I really loathe Dick Cheney

That's it. Nothing more.
Lying continued

Iraqis taking 50% of the casualties? Are you kidding me? Sure, more Iraqis have died, but that doesn't support the Cheney lying crap.

I will say this: Cheney is a consistant asshole.
Live blogging VP debate--Cheney lying edition

First, Cheney completely ducked the first question about Bremer saying that they never had enough troops on the ground.

Oh, and Cheney, lying sack that he is, now says that he never said that Saddam was in league with 9-11. Lying sack.

Ignores point about Republicans also saying admin is inept.

Cheney lies more than Bush.

And it is more than I can take to hear Cheney criticize Kerry for voting against defense issues. Lying sack. Lying monkey shit liar.

October 2, 2004

Would Jesus Torture Someone?

I was reading some blogs the other day, and read a horrifying post at Obsidian Wings about our government wanting to export torture. We are not supposed to do it, even George Bush said so, but we are willing to legalize the process of sending people we can't torture to people who are more than willing to torture people. Here is more information about it. The argument seems to go the way of the ticking bomb scenario. Wouldn't you be willing to torture one person if that torture could save thousands of lives? Mark Kleinman has linked to a blogger who continues this argument by pointing to all the evil that is happening in Baghdad and other parts of the world. Hard to muster sympathy for people willing to do this kind of thing.

I am reminded of a story in the Dallas News from years back. Locals were shocked to find out that their neighborhood now included a sex-offender so some of the locals decided to send the message that they didn't want people like that around. Unfortunately, the guy they thought was a sex-offender was just a mentally challenged guy living at the wrong address. They beat him pretty badly. People said it was unfortunate, but sex-offenders shouldn't have rights. The irony of the fact that this guy wasn't a sex-offender seemed to miss their pea-sized brains. Our judicial system is not there to coddle the guilty, but to somehow determine who the guilty are. This story and the current one show the ignorance of most people regarding the judicial system. I think when most people complain about judges and the courts, they assume going in that the guilty are the only ones there. The fact that due process is there to insure that you and I are not wrongly convicted seems missing.

So, the above question should be rephrased. Instead, it should be "how many people are you willing to torture to get some information?" Or, "are you willing to torture people that might have information?" That is what happened in Abu Ghraib when some of the people tortured (remember, some of them were kids) were just neighbors of suspected terrorists. Oh well, they all look alike, right?

So where is our Jesus model here?
Can anyone imagine Jesus of Nazareth in a hot dark room. He isn't torturing of course, but is sitting over in the corner watching as the interrogators hook up the battery cables. Jesus turns away as the suspect screams in agony....

No! Of course Jesus would never do such things. So why are all his vocal followers so damn silent? Why are they supporting Republican leadership? Why do they support a Bush administration that can both denounce torture and look the other way while others do it.

WE ARE BETTER THAN THIS. WE SHOULD GODDAMNED WELL ACT LIKE IT!!!!!

October 1, 2004

The Washington Monthly: "POLAND....During the debate John Kerry suggested that the war coalition wasn't really much of a coalition: only the U.S., Britain, and Australia. 'We can do better,' he said.


Bush, obviously peeved, snapped back, 'He forgot Poland.' My initial reaction was that this line was going to make pretty good joke fodder on late night TV (insert your own one-liner here), but Julian Sanchez at Hit & Run actually has the best response. Here's what President Aleksander Kwasniewski of Poland thinks of the coalition today: 'They deceived us about the weapons of mass destruction, that's true. We were taken for a ride.'


Maybe Bush would be better off forgetting Poland too."