Note: Many of these blocks of text actually are the link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
Once more into the breach, as I say, and this to wrap up 2015 ... it is going to be a long one ... well because there is a long list of links on my topics notebook page that either need to go in the bit bucket or beg to be commented on. So, having said that, lets us begin.
First, we will start with the Far East and the challenges it faces, especially to the US military:
Could or would China attack the US? This interesting article looks at the parallels between China now and Imperial Japan of the early 20th Century. It offers a warning, and something that should be at least considered.
If a war with China did start, how might it? A look at a number of concepts that could alter the current balance and lead to a conflict that leads to shooting war. Things to think about when reviewing who you want to sit in the Oval Office in 2017.
This mid-December incident illustrates some of the conditions that leave one wondering about the Western Pacific.
Yet another view of the same incident. At what point does a "provocation" lead to an incident?
This article looks how "war" in the 21st Century is morphing away from the centuries-old European Westphalian concept of state on state conflict. Whether it is in the South China sea, the Middle East, Africa, or Ukraine ... the definition of what is "war" and how you fight one is becoming murky. The question is how do we (as a nation) clarify that grayness and how far are we willing to go in response to it?
The US military, long a leader in "cyber warfare" looks to build a more "offensive" cyber capability after a period of focusing on defense because of infiltrations that demonstrate our own weaknesses. Is this the way we should go? Is the old axiom that the best defense remains a good offense? Or does that offend your sensibilities?
This essay presents a case for prudence and caution in the use of American military power, much as the author says President Obama has done. It is something to think about as we look to this year's election: What role do you see as the proper one in global affairs for the US, its military, its power in its various forms?
This article sums up the challenge facing the US in a nutshell ... answers anyone?
This essay poses an interesting dilemma ... and I am not sure but if the officers so involved are that political, it would not be a bad thing for them to leave the service. At the same time, as I read the article, I was struck that is sounded suspiciously like cafeteria talk ... and we all know where that goes.
Another article identifying some of the issues ... but in a sense short on solutions ... yet, it is correct in that what is happening is more toward the beginning of the play rather than near the final acts.
As we go through 2016, here are some suggestions of stories to watch as the conflicts in the Middle East run their courses
In this essay, Victor David Hanson illustrates the role human nature and history play in the fight against ISIS and how the Obama Administration seems to be so clueless about both.
Is this the beginning of the infamous "mission creep", or just the next step. Yes, Virginia, American soldiers are fighting ISIS in close combat ... aka Boots on the Ground
And for you airpower solves everything, there always is this reminder of its limitations. And yes, people do die from "friendly fire" because no fire is friendly. No weapon system is perfect and sometimes, especially when working with "allies" target identification is a bitch.
When it comes to integrating women in combat units ... well, at least the Special Operators are not afraid to let their views known ... however politically incorrect ... and useless ... it may be ... get ready guys, the steamroller is a coming and the train has left that station.
There is some validity to this view - in my own humble view and personal experience - but the real test is if the DOD starts making women register for the draft.
The problem with most people is that they think the terms battleship and warship are interchangeable ... but in Navy parlance, they aren't. A warship merely is a ship designed to go war and fight various missions. A battleship designates a specific class of warship that is designed to take heavy punishment while dealing out even heavier punishment. The US, nor has any other navy in the world, has not build a true battleship since World War II. We have opted to sacrifice armor and survivability for speed and firepower from missiles. None of today's warships are built to take heavy punishment from any other ship or even shore and air based threats. The object is to duck and weave, bob and jab, and basically make the other guy think you are somewhere you ain't. Such is the case with the Zumwalt destroyers, of which (maybe) only three will be built.
I sometimes wonder how far up their derrieres some of the Regular Army brass have their heads ... but this truly is a bad idea. Speaking as someone who spent many years in the National Guard, this is a job killer. But then, I remember Persian Gulf War, and how unprepared (really) RA units were and how they were blessed with having months to hone up their skills in the desert.
This is not necessarily a bad concept ... as it could help keep the lineage going on many a proud and fine unit. It also might teach some in the RA that maybe those weekend soldiers are not quite bad as they thought.
This just illustrates how silly some people can be. OK, Americans flunk geography. I wonder how many people around the world think there really is a Gotham City?
There is a lesson here, with plenty of references for additional reading, that those who aspire to leadership should learn ... history always is a good place to start from when trying to analyze and form a strategy ... it helps form the basis for the questions you should ask and what tools you should ask for.
The take-away I have from this column is that we all should understand and realize that the choice of words used to describe an issue color the discussion and expose biases that otherwise would seem to be hidden. In those biases are the seeds that either help or destroy the writer's credibility. The absolute classic example is the debate over abortions. Pro-life, pro-choice, anti-abortion, murderers and killers of human life ... human, fetus, collection of cells ... the words that are used define which side a person is on.
A very interesting discussion about personhood ... such as when is a person to be counted for political reasons, like apportionment of legislative bodies or for voting in an election. Are elections to be among those persons who are citizens of the political division - nation, state, county, city, township, village, district, etc. - or merely a resident, with a resident not necessarily meeting the standards of citizenship or who may be barred from voting by law and a judgment of a court. Where do you stand? This is important because we will have to decide where millions of illegal immigrants fit into this equation as well as legal immigrants who are not citizens.
This is an interesting argument against the progressive view that the state should replace the individual when it comes to making choices ... and make no doubt, it is the progressive view that experts and the state can better make choices than you can, even though we each are quite flawed and in many cases quite ignorant.
Professor Hanson offers a interesting question ... what if the next president - say Donald Trump - acts like our current one? Will the mass media give him a pass or will they savage him at every turn?
A warning to the Republicans, people on the "right" and conservatives and libertarians: Be wary of candidates touting solutions that exceed their constitutional authority. We already have had seven years (going on eight) of that ... do we really want any more?
I think the point here is that everybody really just wants a benevolent despot to run the country - any country. One that doesn't really mess with the individual and lets the individual live their lives, as he or she wants, in reasonable peace and civility among neighbors. Unfortunately, it is not a good or realistic option and reflects that for the most part, people don't care who the tax collector is, just as long as he doesn't mess with his rice bowl.
a thoughtful take on "secular creationists" ... and where the concept goes astray and becomes a costly failure
And then there are those who think the world's problems are all the fault of Caucasian Northern Europeans ... sometimes I wonder what rock these people live under that they are so blind to history around the world, on every continent and with every culture, race or linguistic group.
And then there is this rebuttal ... which I think is fairly appropriate
I found this an pretty good essay and explanation of what the US Constitution really says about race ... granted, it isn't what you probably expected.
Just so you know ... I think this guy is spot on ... but then the soothsayers, crystal ball gazers, market analysts, pundits, pollsters and all the others don't have a real clue ... and we will just have to live through tomorrow, and the next day and the next, etc., etc., to really find out.
In a sense, this essay points out that for American Muslims there is a generational clash evolving, as it has with every immigrant group over the last two centuries. The question is whether the cultural assimilation will have any impact or will be still be faced with the cultural conflict.
Another essay by Victor Hanson. This one on the president's view of bitter clingers ... or is the president one of those himself, bitterly clinging to his sense of victimhood that never really existed to the extent he claims.
This is a cautionary tale on how 3D printing is going to change the world ... economically, socially, politically. It is going to happen folks, so brace yourself for it.
Apparently this hack was done by a "good guy" who was probing defenses and found a major hole in the US cyber security effort ... it just shows how much information lies in collected databases on servers around the nation, if not the world. All of it, ultimately, is hackable because it is humans who program the machines to provide the defenses.
I know the dangers of "free speech" but I find this discussion absolutely terrifying ... I am an absolutist when it comes to the First Amendment and am leery of any government or political leader trying to tamper or temper those dangers
I have a major problem with this alternative to the current Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - Obamacare as we come to know and love it. It assumes certain things about the role of the FEDERAL government that I find extremely wrong, philosophically, politically and pragmatically.
This is a very interesting discussion on the role Christian faith and beliefs should play in foreign policy for the US. Very thought provoking and worth reading.
I would respectfully disagree with this author in that snowflakes, and individuals in social contexts, in their uniqueness provide a demonstration of a creator ... the force behind the natural world.
I found this piece entertaining ... because it is correct in so many ways ... particularly the part of politics sucking and politicians standing in muck and mud
Yet another article by Professor Hanson, discussing how our president seems to have a fundamental lack of understanding of human nature and the role credible deterrence plays in the home and on the world stage.
Liberty? What does it mean? A short essay for you to think about it and what it means.
Another article on the power of words ... and how they control the discussion on things like strategy
A rather incomplete article, but it serves a very good purpose of pointing out that ISIS has many dimensions and facets, which make it a challenge for those of us looking at it through our Western Occidental prisms have difficulty understanding.
And then there is the Saudi grand mufti who says this ... no wonder the Middle East is such a mess.
Leave it to John Stossel to give the end of a the year review an optimistic and uplifting view ... and all in all, you know, he pretty much is correct.
AND next to last, there is this anonymous rant: OH YEAH! Sorry, but I agree with it.
And finally, as you sit there nursing your latest hangover ... consider this woman's problem. I have heard about this condition before and it involved a Chinaman and candy bars ... but that was long ago and far away when I was but a young and innocent naif living in Southern California.
And if you actually have read all the way down to here, I congratulate you on your perseverance and willingness to put up with my ramblings. But I have cleared the decks and now it is time to go share a drink of sparkling wine with my beautiful and wonderful wife as we ring in the New Year. I hope you have a prosperous and satisfying one.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Random thoughts and readings for Dec. 24, 2015
Note: Many of these blocks of text actually is a link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
It is Christmas eve ... and I suppose I should get the Christmas-related readings disposed of before Santa arrives. So, once more into the breach this creaky old news editor goes.
A few good words to abide by as we go through this period of holiday cheer and fear. It it good to remember that, yes, there is evil and evil people lurking out there in the crowd, and potentially in a crowd near you ... but not necessarily so. So be aware, for awareness sake. Be alert because it is always is a good thing to pay attention to what is going on around you. And always have a contingency plan ... not because you expect to use it, but because you might need it ... and those rules apply everyday after you get out of bed.
And, yes, Virginia, just as there is a Santa, there are those who really have it in for people who believe in celebrating Christmas in whatever fashion you might choose. I am not sure if that qualifies as being at "war" with Christianity, or if it merely is a state of enhanced hostility ... I am not sure how you can use a police/law enforcement paradigm to combat this on a global scale, but it sure isn't being very tolerant of other's religious viewpoints.
This is your standard meme from the progressives on why Christmas isn't a religious holiday. Of course, it is not about faith ... and besides those damn Christians who celebrate Christmas are just being pagan thieves. I suppose one could offer a rebuttal on a point by point basis, but what is the use ... Christianity is about faith and love not bits and bytes of data.
Now this is a refreshing and humorous view on the war on Christmas ... or at least having Christ in Christmas
Tis the season for top 10 lists (did I mention how much I hated doing the Top 10 stories of the year every year ... it was an ordeal) ... but this is the Top 10 Unconstitutional Things that President Obama and his administration has done in 2015. Of course, there are those who say: Unconstitutional? Who cares? That was just something written by a bunch of elitist educated white land owners 228 years ago ... How can that be relevant to us in the 21st Century?
And the debate about what to do with the illegal combatants being detained at Guantanamo Bay goes on with the publication of a Hillary Clinton memo on the subject. It seems we still are trying to determine if these guys are illegal combatants as defined under the terms of the various Geneva and Hague Conventions ... or just common criminals.
It behooves us to remember that we really are not just facing hostility from a small slice of the Islamic faith. Yes, there are those who might not be as violent, and in some sense more tolerant, but there still is a significant percentage who favor violent Jihad and suppression of non-believers by any and all means necessary and available
This is a good article, in my humble opinion, outlining the background and basis for the ideology (and to some extent the theology) of the Islamic State and its fellow travelers like the Taliban and Boko Haram. I really encourage you to read it.
There are rumblings that maybe the sacred "Geneva Conventions" need to be revisited in light on the ways "war" is fought in the 21st Century. It seems, as it is, only countries like the United States and its NATO allies even try to abide by the rules.
And finally, in keeping with the above discussion, an excellent review on why the rules of war and engagement may need to be revisited ... and the costs of not doing so.
You all have a very merry Christmas ... and I hope Santa is kind and forgiving to you ... just as Jesus said we should be to everyone we meet ... within reason.
It is Christmas eve ... and I suppose I should get the Christmas-related readings disposed of before Santa arrives. So, once more into the breach this creaky old news editor goes.
A few good words to abide by as we go through this period of holiday cheer and fear. It it good to remember that, yes, there is evil and evil people lurking out there in the crowd, and potentially in a crowd near you ... but not necessarily so. So be aware, for awareness sake. Be alert because it is always is a good thing to pay attention to what is going on around you. And always have a contingency plan ... not because you expect to use it, but because you might need it ... and those rules apply everyday after you get out of bed.
And, yes, Virginia, just as there is a Santa, there are those who really have it in for people who believe in celebrating Christmas in whatever fashion you might choose. I am not sure if that qualifies as being at "war" with Christianity, or if it merely is a state of enhanced hostility ... I am not sure how you can use a police/law enforcement paradigm to combat this on a global scale, but it sure isn't being very tolerant of other's religious viewpoints.
This is your standard meme from the progressives on why Christmas isn't a religious holiday. Of course, it is not about faith ... and besides those damn Christians who celebrate Christmas are just being pagan thieves. I suppose one could offer a rebuttal on a point by point basis, but what is the use ... Christianity is about faith and love not bits and bytes of data.
Now this is a refreshing and humorous view on the war on Christmas ... or at least having Christ in Christmas
Tis the season for top 10 lists (did I mention how much I hated doing the Top 10 stories of the year every year ... it was an ordeal) ... but this is the Top 10 Unconstitutional Things that President Obama and his administration has done in 2015. Of course, there are those who say: Unconstitutional? Who cares? That was just something written by a bunch of elitist educated white land owners 228 years ago ... How can that be relevant to us in the 21st Century?
And the debate about what to do with the illegal combatants being detained at Guantanamo Bay goes on with the publication of a Hillary Clinton memo on the subject. It seems we still are trying to determine if these guys are illegal combatants as defined under the terms of the various Geneva and Hague Conventions ... or just common criminals.
It behooves us to remember that we really are not just facing hostility from a small slice of the Islamic faith. Yes, there are those who might not be as violent, and in some sense more tolerant, but there still is a significant percentage who favor violent Jihad and suppression of non-believers by any and all means necessary and available
This is a good article, in my humble opinion, outlining the background and basis for the ideology (and to some extent the theology) of the Islamic State and its fellow travelers like the Taliban and Boko Haram. I really encourage you to read it.
There are rumblings that maybe the sacred "Geneva Conventions" need to be revisited in light on the ways "war" is fought in the 21st Century. It seems, as it is, only countries like the United States and its NATO allies even try to abide by the rules.
And finally, in keeping with the above discussion, an excellent review on why the rules of war and engagement may need to be revisited ... and the costs of not doing so.
You all have a very merry Christmas ... and I hope Santa is kind and forgiving to you ... just as Jesus said we should be to everyone we meet ... within reason.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Random readings for Dec. 22, 2015
Note: Many of these blocks of text actually is a link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
Not sure when I am going with this tonight ... so it is going to a bit eclectic ... I hope you enjoy and learn from some of these articles.
This offers an excellent discussion about the necessity of property rights for people be free in thought, conscience, speech and press. Without the liberty to "own" your own property whether it is physical, labor or intellectual, then there really isn't anything else. If we don't own our own labor, we are slaves. If we don't have the right to own our own ideas ... then what are we? Again, nothing more than slaves. If we are not free to exercise our conscience, then our soul is chained to the constraints of the beliefs of others ... and what gives them that right? Sorry, nothing does. You may not agree with my religious beliefs and they may be culturally incompatible with what you believe, but that does not give you the right to dictate my compliance with your beliefs. That is known as tolerance and in our Politically Correct world, plus in the world at large, tolerance is sorely lacking everywhere.
Mr. Thomas Sowell, as per usual, offers his rather pointed view on those who think their elite status as experts gives them the right to dictate to the rest of us how to live. How rude and crude is that? What about leaving some of these things to the individual and letting them pay the consequences of the success or failure of their own decisions. I know, that wouldn't be "fair" or "equal" but guess what neither life nor the world ever will be fair and equal. Ain't gonna happen.
An interesting essay on the rules for "boys and girls" that probably should be the basis for all our life's lessons.
Interesting ... it seems that "miracles" are more prevalent and enjoy more support in unexpected circles than we are supposed to think. You can count me among those who believe ... in that I have experienced more than one and literally felt the warmth of prayers offered up in my name. You can take that for what it is worth and disbelieve and attempt to debunk my view ... but it doesn't change what happened.
Sad commentary on reality today ... of course, I suppose Christians deserve it for all the privilege they have.
I offer this up ... well, because I thought there was a bit of truth within its "humor" ... Not that I expect anyone who aspires to call themselves a progressive would agree.
The Afghan deserter Bergdahl enters the next phase of the military justice system and this is a little primer. I call him a deserter, because - despite all the rationalizations - that is what he is.
Last call for tonight ... a little comparison between the Koran and Bible ... take it or leave it as you will.
Not sure when I am going with this tonight ... so it is going to a bit eclectic ... I hope you enjoy and learn from some of these articles.
This offers an excellent discussion about the necessity of property rights for people be free in thought, conscience, speech and press. Without the liberty to "own" your own property whether it is physical, labor or intellectual, then there really isn't anything else. If we don't own our own labor, we are slaves. If we don't have the right to own our own ideas ... then what are we? Again, nothing more than slaves. If we are not free to exercise our conscience, then our soul is chained to the constraints of the beliefs of others ... and what gives them that right? Sorry, nothing does. You may not agree with my religious beliefs and they may be culturally incompatible with what you believe, but that does not give you the right to dictate my compliance with your beliefs. That is known as tolerance and in our Politically Correct world, plus in the world at large, tolerance is sorely lacking everywhere.
Mr. Thomas Sowell, as per usual, offers his rather pointed view on those who think their elite status as experts gives them the right to dictate to the rest of us how to live. How rude and crude is that? What about leaving some of these things to the individual and letting them pay the consequences of the success or failure of their own decisions. I know, that wouldn't be "fair" or "equal" but guess what neither life nor the world ever will be fair and equal. Ain't gonna happen.
An interesting essay on the rules for "boys and girls" that probably should be the basis for all our life's lessons.
Interesting ... it seems that "miracles" are more prevalent and enjoy more support in unexpected circles than we are supposed to think. You can count me among those who believe ... in that I have experienced more than one and literally felt the warmth of prayers offered up in my name. You can take that for what it is worth and disbelieve and attempt to debunk my view ... but it doesn't change what happened.
Sad commentary on reality today ... of course, I suppose Christians deserve it for all the privilege they have.
I offer this up ... well, because I thought there was a bit of truth within its "humor" ... Not that I expect anyone who aspires to call themselves a progressive would agree.
The Afghan deserter Bergdahl enters the next phase of the military justice system and this is a little primer. I call him a deserter, because - despite all the rationalizations - that is what he is.
Last call for tonight ... a little comparison between the Koran and Bible ... take it or leave it as you will.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Random thoughts for Dec. 20, 2015
Note: Many of these blocks of text actually is a link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
This day often brings me into a reflective mood because 24 years ago my oldest brother was killed while serving in the Army in West Germany. I reflect on the price of freedom and liberty and how important they are to us as individuals in the United States ... and sometimes wish that they would accepted and appreciated around the world some day ... but the cynical realist in me knows that probably will never happen because the cultural prerequisites will not be there and, in my humble opinion, fall further into disfavor with every passing day.
So, with that preface, once more into the breach, as they say, for a new edition of my random thoughts and commentary. Did you all watch the Democratic Presidential Candidate Debate on Saturday night? I tried, but the bovine scatology got so deep at one point I had to shut it off, which leads me to my first link.
You can say this isn't so ... but please, I ask you, stop and think about what is happening with the backing of the left, the progressives and the Democrats. Listen to what the Democratic presidential candidates are saying and understand the implications of their words. The facts are there. I don't see conservatives doing the same ... and those GOP candidates who make similar calls ... well, I am against them too. ... ah, but what about abortion? What about the rights of the unborn human being? And when does a person become human enough to have those rights? What about GLBT rights? Look, I don't have any problem with gays and lesbians and trans doing what they want ... it is their choice and they will have to face the consequences for their choices, just like anyone else. I just ask that a) they don't try to compel me or anyone to approve or accept them or face criminal and civil sanctions from the government ... they don't have that right, nor should they have that power ... just as I will not try to compel them to approve or accept me. And b) lets stop redefining the language just so special interest groups can get money and benefits from the state/government. Sorry, but I draw the line at approving that.
This kinda ranks up there with the leading bovine scatology of the year. I am sorry, but you want to start parsing it, we all ARE minorities. You want to be treated equal and with respect; then start treating everybody else with equality and respect and expect nothing less in return. You don't like the way you are being treated? Vote with your damn feet then. Gee, life may be difficult then ... guess what? Life is difficult. Is there discrimination? Damn straight ... but that is a multi-edged blade that cuts in so many different ways, it ain't even funny any more. Stopping discrimination starts with the individual, not with government sanctions, privileges and affirmative actions.
With the SCOTUS taking up Affirmative Action once again, it behooves us to remember how it backfires. The sad truth is that in most cases, regardless of the reason for it, the outcome often is not satisfactory and comes with costs that none of us should have to pay.
With the unrest on campus, undoubtedly the SCOTUS decision will add to it. Of course the argument is that the court is out of touch with the reality of racism on college campuses ... to wit, I think this lady has no clue what real racism was like.
I will let Victor Hanson's words speak for themselves.
And Thomas Sowell does an excellent job of demolishing the liberal view of what the SCOTUS should do. It really does boil down to "equal rights" and that means "equality before the law" and it does not mean special legal privileges for Group B over Group A. It is one of the reasons I really hate the uses the US tax code has been put to, because it literally lays waste to the concept of government treating all of us equally.
Not to leave the Muslims out of the discussion on racism, I offer Alonzo Rachel's recent talk on that issue.
Whilst dealing with social issues, here is an interesting article on the subject of polyamory and its negative potential impact on society
A point I probably have been making for some time ... about climate change ... and now we can partially blame the aboriginal native Americans for it.
Another facet on climate change ... which in our hubris to save the planet from something that has been happening for millennia.
And last but not least - yet another example why our efforts to stem climate change are basically full of fecal material
More thoughts still to be caught up in the pipeline ... but this is all for this juncture.
This day often brings me into a reflective mood because 24 years ago my oldest brother was killed while serving in the Army in West Germany. I reflect on the price of freedom and liberty and how important they are to us as individuals in the United States ... and sometimes wish that they would accepted and appreciated around the world some day ... but the cynical realist in me knows that probably will never happen because the cultural prerequisites will not be there and, in my humble opinion, fall further into disfavor with every passing day.
So, with that preface, once more into the breach, as they say, for a new edition of my random thoughts and commentary. Did you all watch the Democratic Presidential Candidate Debate on Saturday night? I tried, but the bovine scatology got so deep at one point I had to shut it off, which leads me to my first link.
You can say this isn't so ... but please, I ask you, stop and think about what is happening with the backing of the left, the progressives and the Democrats. Listen to what the Democratic presidential candidates are saying and understand the implications of their words. The facts are there. I don't see conservatives doing the same ... and those GOP candidates who make similar calls ... well, I am against them too. ... ah, but what about abortion? What about the rights of the unborn human being? And when does a person become human enough to have those rights? What about GLBT rights? Look, I don't have any problem with gays and lesbians and trans doing what they want ... it is their choice and they will have to face the consequences for their choices, just like anyone else. I just ask that a) they don't try to compel me or anyone to approve or accept them or face criminal and civil sanctions from the government ... they don't have that right, nor should they have that power ... just as I will not try to compel them to approve or accept me. And b) lets stop redefining the language just so special interest groups can get money and benefits from the state/government. Sorry, but I draw the line at approving that.
This kinda ranks up there with the leading bovine scatology of the year. I am sorry, but you want to start parsing it, we all ARE minorities. You want to be treated equal and with respect; then start treating everybody else with equality and respect and expect nothing less in return. You don't like the way you are being treated? Vote with your damn feet then. Gee, life may be difficult then ... guess what? Life is difficult. Is there discrimination? Damn straight ... but that is a multi-edged blade that cuts in so many different ways, it ain't even funny any more. Stopping discrimination starts with the individual, not with government sanctions, privileges and affirmative actions.
With the SCOTUS taking up Affirmative Action once again, it behooves us to remember how it backfires. The sad truth is that in most cases, regardless of the reason for it, the outcome often is not satisfactory and comes with costs that none of us should have to pay.
With the unrest on campus, undoubtedly the SCOTUS decision will add to it. Of course the argument is that the court is out of touch with the reality of racism on college campuses ... to wit, I think this lady has no clue what real racism was like.
I will let Victor Hanson's words speak for themselves.
And Thomas Sowell does an excellent job of demolishing the liberal view of what the SCOTUS should do. It really does boil down to "equal rights" and that means "equality before the law" and it does not mean special legal privileges for Group B over Group A. It is one of the reasons I really hate the uses the US tax code has been put to, because it literally lays waste to the concept of government treating all of us equally.
Not to leave the Muslims out of the discussion on racism, I offer Alonzo Rachel's recent talk on that issue.
Whilst dealing with social issues, here is an interesting article on the subject of polyamory and its negative potential impact on society
A point I probably have been making for some time ... about climate change ... and now we can partially blame the aboriginal native Americans for it.
Another facet on climate change ... which in our hubris to save the planet from something that has been happening for millennia.
And last but not least - yet another example why our efforts to stem climate change are basically full of fecal material
More thoughts still to be caught up in the pipeline ... but this is all for this juncture.
Friday, December 18, 2015
More delayed Random Thoughts
Note: Many of these blocks of text actually is a link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
Again, I apologize for the somewhat dated nature of this series of thoughts, but of late me, my computer and blogspot.com have been having a tad bit of difficulty getting on the same sheet of music.
This particular Thoughts is going to focus on gun control. I offer up a series of different articles, rants and opinion pieces that I urge you to review. You may not agree with my view, and that of course is your privilege, but please do not just dismiss and discount either side. It helps to understand what fears and thoughts are motivating people and to understand that sometimes others just don’t view the world through the same perspective.
So here are interesting essays/rants on San Bernardino, Democrats/liberals/progressives and civil rights vis-a-vis gun control
This article really is correct: The right of individuals to keep and bear arms should not even be up for any debate. I know those who look at the Second Amendment will try to parse it in some way to say that isn't true, but it was not the original intent, as too many of the people contemporary with the Bill Of Rights and the adoption of the Constitution will remind you, whether they were Federalists or Anti-Federalists (the only two parties at the time)
This, to me, is a major part of the problem ... and part of the reason I am leery of any and all say that they are making the federal government act for the good of all. It isn't ... as this article, expresses. You, of course, are welcome to disagree.
This truly is a bit of a rant, but it does raise some interesting questions ... questions unfortunately, I never get much of an answer from the left.
Another basic rant, that poses some significant questions. Mainly: Why?
And this is my question: How many rights do we have to give up to satisfy those progressives and Democrats who want to criminalize our different views on speech, religion, press, firearms? That is not the America I grew up in and it is not the America that I hope my grandchildren will live in. But if the plans and policies of people like President Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and a host of other people who call themselves progressive and liberals have their way, I am afraid that all of the rights enumerated in the US Constitution will fall victim to their vision of political correctness.
This is one of the reasons I have problems with all the hysteria about imposing gun controls: The data, folks, just doesn’t match the rhetoric of the president and fellow progressive and Democratic Party followers.
To be fair, in a way, I let the NRA speak for itself ... and its defense is rather eloquent
This is MediaMatters.org (the very progressive web site that produces Democratic talking points) view ... I offer it up as a rebuttal ... while at the same time making the observation that it doesn't answer the questions why federal laws are not enforced? Don't just attack saying it is racist, or the other side resists the laws ... explain why the existing laws on the books are not enforced? Is that such a difficult question?
This article if from Salon.Com ... and it again attacks the organization and an individual. Let me see, there are roughly 100 million people eligible to vote in the US and only 4 million of them are supporters of the NRA ... wouldn't you think that the other 96 percent could make up their own minds without ad hominem attacks on people you disagree with? Or don't you trust them?
Another person who fails to understand history, the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights and why all of that comes together. My comment to this fair lady: Stay in Toronto.
This appeals to the Irish in me ... but at the same time it points out how what the progressives and Democrats have been doing really have been a fundamental assault on the rule of law (you know, Mr. President, it would be nice if you told your minions to obey the law, as well as yourself) and the rights, duties and obligations outlined in the U.S. Constitution (as amended) and the Bill of Rights. On one side, stands liberty and freedom and I don't know what it is supposed to be on the other, but it sure is not anything friendly to the individual, his or her freedoms and rights.
These facts probably have gun control advocates just climbing the walls ... but they reflect the good sense of the American people ... much to the chagrin of our betters in the political, media, academic and economic elites. The adage of the old west about Mr. Colt’s pistol being the great equalizer seem apt here.
And if nothing else, if all else fails, there is the rush to judgment from parties on the left. Please, give me break.
And then there is this reality ... consider it, accept it or reject it, but when did due process and innocent until proven guilt in a court of law become such terms to be dismissed for convenience?
I would point out that sometimes we forget what really was the law "once upon a time" and how it helped shape the good parts of being an American. I would posit that such is the case with the Second Amendment and 1792 Militia Acts and its successors ... now great legal arguments possibly can made whether or not this definition of who and what is the "militia" is in the United States, but what often is overlooked is how it fostered the sense of community in each and every neighborhood, village, town, city, state. It is something that is sorely missed these days when we all seemed wired together only by our smart phones.
In addition, I would point out that the federal law required every able-bodied citizen (after a host of revisions to the original act) to arm themselves with a military compatible weapon - which folks, happens to include the infamous self-loading rifles that fire one shot every time you pull the trigger which have been given ignomimous label of being "assault rifles." Not only that, the citizen was obligated to provide for himself a basic load of ammunition of military caliber - which when I was in was carrying 220 rounds of 5.56 mm NATO or Remington .233 caliber bullets, or 120 rounds of 7.62 NATO or .308 Winchester bullets, as well as a rucksack and a bayonet. All good light infantry gear. If you carried a pistol it was either 21 rounds of .45 caliber ACP for an M1911 or 45 rounds for a M9 9mm
To be specific: The second Militia Act, passed May 8, 1792, conscripted every "free able-bodied white male citizen" between the ages of 18 and 45 into a local militia company. (This was later expanded to all males, regardless of race, between the ages 18-54)
"I. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That each and every free able-bodied white male citizen of the respective States, resident therein, who is or shall be of age of eighteen years, and under the age of forty-five years (except as is herein after excepted) shall severally and respectively be enrolled in the militia, by the Captain or Commanding Officer of the company, within whose bounds such citizen shall reside, and that within twelve months after the passing of this Act. And it shall at all time hereafter be the duty of every such Captain or Commanding Officer of a company, to enroll every such citizen as aforesaid, and also those who shall, from time to time, arrive at the age of 18 years, or being at the age of 18 years, and under the age of 45 years (except as before excepted) shall come to reside within his bounds; and shall without delay notify such citizen of the said enrollment, by the proper non-commissioned Officer of the company, by whom such notice may be proved. That every citizen, so enrolled and notified, shall, within six months thereafter, provide himself with a good musket or firelock, a sufficient bayonet and belt, two spare flints, and a knapsack, a pouch, with a box therein, to contain not less than twenty four cartridges, suited to the bore of his musket or firelock, each cartridge to contain a proper quantity of powder and ball; or with a good rifle, knapsack, shot-pouch, and powder-horn, twenty balls suited to the bore of his rifle, and a quarter of a pound of powder; and shall appear so armed, accoutered and provided, when called out to exercise or into service, except, that when called out on company days to exercise only, he may appear without a knapsack. That the commissioned Officers shall severally be armed with a sword or hanger, and espontoon; and that from and after five years from the passing of this Act, all muskets from arming the militia as is herein required, shall be of bores sufficient for balls of the eighteenth part of a pound; and every citizen so enrolled, and providing himself with the arms, ammunition and accoutrements, required as aforesaid, shall hold the same exempted from all suits, distresses, executions or sales, for debt or for the payment of taxes."
Now, I hope you understand that the Second Amendment indeed apply to individuals in their role in the "non-organized" militia. Of course we can have a great debate now whether later versions have made that designation superfluous, but I fall in the school that it hasn't ... but like a host of other laws, it merely is no longer enforced ... much less with any rigor. I could go on, which would drive the current crop of civilian militia folks nuts, but I will leave all that for now ... you read, research and decide for yourself ... and I hope you come down on the side of individual liberty and freedom and the role we all owe to our community, state and nation.
Again, I apologize for the somewhat dated nature of this series of thoughts, but of late me, my computer and blogspot.com have been having a tad bit of difficulty getting on the same sheet of music.
This particular Thoughts is going to focus on gun control. I offer up a series of different articles, rants and opinion pieces that I urge you to review. You may not agree with my view, and that of course is your privilege, but please do not just dismiss and discount either side. It helps to understand what fears and thoughts are motivating people and to understand that sometimes others just don’t view the world through the same perspective.
So here are interesting essays/rants on San Bernardino, Democrats/liberals/progressives and civil rights vis-a-vis gun control
This article really is correct: The right of individuals to keep and bear arms should not even be up for any debate. I know those who look at the Second Amendment will try to parse it in some way to say that isn't true, but it was not the original intent, as too many of the people contemporary with the Bill Of Rights and the adoption of the Constitution will remind you, whether they were Federalists or Anti-Federalists (the only two parties at the time)
This, to me, is a major part of the problem ... and part of the reason I am leery of any and all say that they are making the federal government act for the good of all. It isn't ... as this article, expresses. You, of course, are welcome to disagree.
This truly is a bit of a rant, but it does raise some interesting questions ... questions unfortunately, I never get much of an answer from the left.
Another basic rant, that poses some significant questions. Mainly: Why?
And this is my question: How many rights do we have to give up to satisfy those progressives and Democrats who want to criminalize our different views on speech, religion, press, firearms? That is not the America I grew up in and it is not the America that I hope my grandchildren will live in. But if the plans and policies of people like President Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and a host of other people who call themselves progressive and liberals have their way, I am afraid that all of the rights enumerated in the US Constitution will fall victim to their vision of political correctness.
This is one of the reasons I have problems with all the hysteria about imposing gun controls: The data, folks, just doesn’t match the rhetoric of the president and fellow progressive and Democratic Party followers.
To be fair, in a way, I let the NRA speak for itself ... and its defense is rather eloquent
This is MediaMatters.org (the very progressive web site that produces Democratic talking points) view ... I offer it up as a rebuttal ... while at the same time making the observation that it doesn't answer the questions why federal laws are not enforced? Don't just attack saying it is racist, or the other side resists the laws ... explain why the existing laws on the books are not enforced? Is that such a difficult question?
This article if from Salon.Com ... and it again attacks the organization and an individual. Let me see, there are roughly 100 million people eligible to vote in the US and only 4 million of them are supporters of the NRA ... wouldn't you think that the other 96 percent could make up their own minds without ad hominem attacks on people you disagree with? Or don't you trust them?
Another person who fails to understand history, the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights and why all of that comes together. My comment to this fair lady: Stay in Toronto.
This appeals to the Irish in me ... but at the same time it points out how what the progressives and Democrats have been doing really have been a fundamental assault on the rule of law (you know, Mr. President, it would be nice if you told your minions to obey the law, as well as yourself) and the rights, duties and obligations outlined in the U.S. Constitution (as amended) and the Bill of Rights. On one side, stands liberty and freedom and I don't know what it is supposed to be on the other, but it sure is not anything friendly to the individual, his or her freedoms and rights.
These facts probably have gun control advocates just climbing the walls ... but they reflect the good sense of the American people ... much to the chagrin of our betters in the political, media, academic and economic elites. The adage of the old west about Mr. Colt’s pistol being the great equalizer seem apt here.
And if nothing else, if all else fails, there is the rush to judgment from parties on the left. Please, give me break.
And then there is this reality ... consider it, accept it or reject it, but when did due process and innocent until proven guilt in a court of law become such terms to be dismissed for convenience?
I would point out that sometimes we forget what really was the law "once upon a time" and how it helped shape the good parts of being an American. I would posit that such is the case with the Second Amendment and 1792 Militia Acts and its successors ... now great legal arguments possibly can made whether or not this definition of who and what is the "militia" is in the United States, but what often is overlooked is how it fostered the sense of community in each and every neighborhood, village, town, city, state. It is something that is sorely missed these days when we all seemed wired together only by our smart phones.
In addition, I would point out that the federal law required every able-bodied citizen (after a host of revisions to the original act) to arm themselves with a military compatible weapon - which folks, happens to include the infamous self-loading rifles that fire one shot every time you pull the trigger which have been given ignomimous label of being "assault rifles." Not only that, the citizen was obligated to provide for himself a basic load of ammunition of military caliber - which when I was in was carrying 220 rounds of 5.56 mm NATO or Remington .233 caliber bullets, or 120 rounds of 7.62 NATO or .308 Winchester bullets, as well as a rucksack and a bayonet. All good light infantry gear. If you carried a pistol it was either 21 rounds of .45 caliber ACP for an M1911 or 45 rounds for a M9 9mm
To be specific: The second Militia Act, passed May 8, 1792, conscripted every "free able-bodied white male citizen" between the ages of 18 and 45 into a local militia company. (This was later expanded to all males, regardless of race, between the ages 18-54)
"I. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That each and every free able-bodied white male citizen of the respective States, resident therein, who is or shall be of age of eighteen years, and under the age of forty-five years (except as is herein after excepted) shall severally and respectively be enrolled in the militia, by the Captain or Commanding Officer of the company, within whose bounds such citizen shall reside, and that within twelve months after the passing of this Act. And it shall at all time hereafter be the duty of every such Captain or Commanding Officer of a company, to enroll every such citizen as aforesaid, and also those who shall, from time to time, arrive at the age of 18 years, or being at the age of 18 years, and under the age of 45 years (except as before excepted) shall come to reside within his bounds; and shall without delay notify such citizen of the said enrollment, by the proper non-commissioned Officer of the company, by whom such notice may be proved. That every citizen, so enrolled and notified, shall, within six months thereafter, provide himself with a good musket or firelock, a sufficient bayonet and belt, two spare flints, and a knapsack, a pouch, with a box therein, to contain not less than twenty four cartridges, suited to the bore of his musket or firelock, each cartridge to contain a proper quantity of powder and ball; or with a good rifle, knapsack, shot-pouch, and powder-horn, twenty balls suited to the bore of his rifle, and a quarter of a pound of powder; and shall appear so armed, accoutered and provided, when called out to exercise or into service, except, that when called out on company days to exercise only, he may appear without a knapsack. That the commissioned Officers shall severally be armed with a sword or hanger, and espontoon; and that from and after five years from the passing of this Act, all muskets from arming the militia as is herein required, shall be of bores sufficient for balls of the eighteenth part of a pound; and every citizen so enrolled, and providing himself with the arms, ammunition and accoutrements, required as aforesaid, shall hold the same exempted from all suits, distresses, executions or sales, for debt or for the payment of taxes."
Now, I hope you understand that the Second Amendment indeed apply to individuals in their role in the "non-organized" militia. Of course we can have a great debate now whether later versions have made that designation superfluous, but I fall in the school that it hasn't ... but like a host of other laws, it merely is no longer enforced ... much less with any rigor. I could go on, which would drive the current crop of civilian militia folks nuts, but I will leave all that for now ... you read, research and decide for yourself ... and I hope you come down on the side of individual liberty and freedom and the role we all owe to our community, state and nation.
Passing thoughts on events
Note: Many of these blocks of text actually is a link to a story or a web
page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the
page being referred to.
I apologize again … for having been derelict in adding to my blog … but I have been having some software issues between the program I have used to compose my blog and publishing it here ... to wit I thank Windows 10 ... but I am endeavoring to adapt and overcome.
In addition, I have been torn of late with intense feelings of frustrations … with events in the world around me, with the reactions by our political leadership, by the expressions of profound idiocy from our media and social elites. Other than that, as the saying goes, things have been just hunky dory … which means I also am taking bids for the Golden Gate Bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge, the London Bridge in Arizona, along with some Pacific beach front property there.
First, would someone please tell me what planet President Obama is residing on? It sure as hell ain’t the same one the rest of us poop smucks live on … and that goes pretty much for the rest of the Political Left in North America, the progressives, the liberals and the Democrats. Although the Republican are having similar delusions. Having said that, let us begin with the links.
Basically, President Obama is flunking as a rhetorically inspiring president. Not only is he not a Wilson, or a Roosevelt (take your pick TR or FDR), or a Truman, a Kennedy, a Reagan, he is not even, for God's sake, either one of the Bushes.
This is the problem with the progressive left: They can't seem to bring themselves to understand that we are at war ... yes, Virginia, a real shootin', tootin' war that unfortunately doesn't fit into the four century old concept of Westphalian Concept of just and proper wars and how they are to be fought. ... and if you don't understand that reference, educate yourself. Look of the 1648 Treaty of Westphalia and how it changed how wars were fought in Europe for the next four centuries. Not elsewhere, so much, but in the West.
A view into who the enemy is ... and why it has to be fought
And for those who don't think ISIS and the Islamic Jihadi are not the enemy, then you need to understand this.
This essay points out the reality in North America (it was written apparently by a Canadian) ... I know the progressives will pooh-pooh and dismiss this view ... but it is closer to reality than their world view is.
Having been one of these troops over the past 25 years, I know of what this author speaks. I know he speaks the truth ... and it frustrates me when others refuse to accept what our experience has taught us.
A digression of sorts ... but 50 or so responses to the mythology propagated by our liberal and progressive friends.
For those who view the U.S. Constitution as a very important document, one not to be interpreted as evolving, but in context of what its words truly mean, I would hope this essay would be an eye-opener ... and my hat still is doffed in respect to the short-little, red-head from Virginia. He truly was a man of great honor and integrity and deserving of your utmost respect.
Me thinks the Paris Climate Accord is much ado about not much. It really doesn't solve the problem - if the problem they are trying to solve really is the problem - nor is really enforceable on those who are doing the worst ... It, as often is the case, throws millions on the pyre of good intentions.
The next time you consider the case for progressive taxation ... review this article and ponder what it offers. Food for thought.
If you remember, I keep warning that you really need a score card to keep up with who is doing what to whom and why when it comes to the Middle East. Another piece of the muddle is offered here.
I think the former governor of New York has the right take on this. I do wonder why progressives and Democrats seem so busy trying to criminalize speech.
This is what groups like the Black Liberation Collective and Black Lives Matter are demanding. I, for one, have a real problem with them claiming victimhood status, but you are welcome to make your own judgments on their demands.
You know something: Sometimes our president just destroys his own credibility. It is getting to the point where I don't know how anyone can accept his leadership on anything.
For those who are buying into the Climate Change solution, I ask how you answer this points. I make them all the time, but no one seems to think that they are anything to worry about.
And one final point about warding off Climate Change: How disingenuous and blind do those who don't realize that this HAS to happen for their dream of no-fossil fuels to be realized have to be. Your science doesn't hold together and a lot of people of die unless you keep this power source in the mix.
There are more random thoughts in the pipeline … I am just too much of a procrastinator (make that lazy for those who have trouble with polysyllabic words) so, I don't know if one of the others I have stacked up will be able to make the conversion tonight ... but it might happen if this conversion works..
I apologize again … for having been derelict in adding to my blog … but I have been having some software issues between the program I have used to compose my blog and publishing it here ... to wit I thank Windows 10 ... but I am endeavoring to adapt and overcome.
In addition, I have been torn of late with intense feelings of frustrations … with events in the world around me, with the reactions by our political leadership, by the expressions of profound idiocy from our media and social elites. Other than that, as the saying goes, things have been just hunky dory … which means I also am taking bids for the Golden Gate Bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge, the London Bridge in Arizona, along with some Pacific beach front property there.
First, would someone please tell me what planet President Obama is residing on? It sure as hell ain’t the same one the rest of us poop smucks live on … and that goes pretty much for the rest of the Political Left in North America, the progressives, the liberals and the Democrats. Although the Republican are having similar delusions. Having said that, let us begin with the links.
Basically, President Obama is flunking as a rhetorically inspiring president. Not only is he not a Wilson, or a Roosevelt (take your pick TR or FDR), or a Truman, a Kennedy, a Reagan, he is not even, for God's sake, either one of the Bushes.
This is the problem with the progressive left: They can't seem to bring themselves to understand that we are at war ... yes, Virginia, a real shootin', tootin' war that unfortunately doesn't fit into the four century old concept of Westphalian Concept of just and proper wars and how they are to be fought. ... and if you don't understand that reference, educate yourself. Look of the 1648 Treaty of Westphalia and how it changed how wars were fought in Europe for the next four centuries. Not elsewhere, so much, but in the West.
A view into who the enemy is ... and why it has to be fought
And for those who don't think ISIS and the Islamic Jihadi are not the enemy, then you need to understand this.
This essay points out the reality in North America (it was written apparently by a Canadian) ... I know the progressives will pooh-pooh and dismiss this view ... but it is closer to reality than their world view is.
Having been one of these troops over the past 25 years, I know of what this author speaks. I know he speaks the truth ... and it frustrates me when others refuse to accept what our experience has taught us.
A digression of sorts ... but 50 or so responses to the mythology propagated by our liberal and progressive friends.
For those who view the U.S. Constitution as a very important document, one not to be interpreted as evolving, but in context of what its words truly mean, I would hope this essay would be an eye-opener ... and my hat still is doffed in respect to the short-little, red-head from Virginia. He truly was a man of great honor and integrity and deserving of your utmost respect.
Me thinks the Paris Climate Accord is much ado about not much. It really doesn't solve the problem - if the problem they are trying to solve really is the problem - nor is really enforceable on those who are doing the worst ... It, as often is the case, throws millions on the pyre of good intentions.
The next time you consider the case for progressive taxation ... review this article and ponder what it offers. Food for thought.
If you remember, I keep warning that you really need a score card to keep up with who is doing what to whom and why when it comes to the Middle East. Another piece of the muddle is offered here.
I think the former governor of New York has the right take on this. I do wonder why progressives and Democrats seem so busy trying to criminalize speech.
This is what groups like the Black Liberation Collective and Black Lives Matter are demanding. I, for one, have a real problem with them claiming victimhood status, but you are welcome to make your own judgments on their demands.
You know something: Sometimes our president just destroys his own credibility. It is getting to the point where I don't know how anyone can accept his leadership on anything.
For those who are buying into the Climate Change solution, I ask how you answer this points. I make them all the time, but no one seems to think that they are anything to worry about.
And one final point about warding off Climate Change: How disingenuous and blind do those who don't realize that this HAS to happen for their dream of no-fossil fuels to be realized have to be. Your science doesn't hold together and a lot of people of die unless you keep this power source in the mix.
There are more random thoughts in the pipeline … I am just too much of a procrastinator (make that lazy for those who have trouble with polysyllabic words) so, I don't know if one of the others I have stacked up will be able to make the conversion tonight ... but it might happen if this conversion works..
Friday, December 4, 2015
Suggested readings from Dec. 4, 2015
Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the page being referred to.
EEEK – two days in a row … don’t get used to this … but to be honest, I am using my writing here as therapy to combat the anger I feel reading all the crap out there and the news which is nothing but propaganda for one agenda or another. Sigh … well, that is the way the world is … and as I tried to explain to some atheistic secular humanists, the world (basically meaning God/the creator/the divine presence) is merely testing us as we are forced to deal with events beyond our – or any individual’s – control. Bad things happen, because individual people choose to make them happen … and then usually people who don’t want to be part of anything are suddenly faced with the consequences of those choices that regardless of their feelings, wishes and desires, the ugliness of the dark side of humankind forces them to deal with those choices that are out of the “innocent” parties’ control. It is part of the creator’s test of us as individuals, I have decided. If we in our hubris seem to expect God to do something different and let us live in peace and harmony without discord to illustrate to us the differences between good and evil, then we are projecting our own expectations on God, and not thinking about what God’s expectations might be for us as we exercise our own free will to make our own choices. So much for religion and philosophy right now and on to the news and views of the day.
The National Rifle Association stands up in its own defense ... as it should.
Interesting article on inequality and such ... good food for thought.
Mr Rachel, as usual, makes a point in his own entertaining and unique fashion.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Suggested readings for Dec. 3, 2015
Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the page being referred to.
To anyone following this blog, I apologize for the hiatus … but I had to deal with a number of issues that precluded me giving my attention to it. I probably won’t be as regular in the future, but I will try to post more often … complete with commentary.
Having got that out of the way, once more into the breech with today’s headlines. Most of which will concern the tragic events in California and the inanities of the responses in a variety of forums.
And another view about the prayer shaming effort ... where does it stop?
Friday, November 6, 2015
Suggested readings posted Nov. 6, 2015
Another long list of unannotated links … still on editorial sabbatical … but felt I should at least put up some links.
Please read and attend to these articles … and use them for food for thought.
Suggested readings from 11.3.2015
http://nationalinterest.org/feature/the-obama-way-war-special-ops-syria-history-14238
https://www.thecipherbrief.com/article/purges-missiles-and-nukes
http://taskandpurpose.com/8-symptoms-of-a-toxic-command-climate/
http://defensetech.org/2015/11/02/china-flies-armed-jets-over-disputed-islands/
http://townhall.com/columnists/thomassowell/2015/11/03/ignoring-the-obvious-n2074766/page/full
http://townhall.com/columnists/paulgreenberg/2015/11/03/word-games-n2074721/page/full
http://libertyunyielding.com/2015/11/02/epa-vows-to-lead-the-global-fight-against-air-conditioners/
http://www.nationalreview.com/article/426460/whitesplain-this-hypocritical-accusers-black-white
http://ottawacitizen.com/news/politics/watson-a-little-canadian-modesty-please
http://pjmedia.com/blog/pelosi-on-tea-party-maybe-anarchy-would-be-better-for-you/?singlepage=true
http://pjmedia.com/blog/the-theology-of-liberalism/?singlepage=true
Nov. 6
http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/03/opinions/bloomberg-brune-coal-climate-change/index.html
http://www.wsj.com/article_email/the-next-climate-scandal-1446594461-lMyQjAxMTI1MzA4NDgwNjQ5Wj
http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/05/asia/afghanistan-doctors-without-borders-kunduz-hospital/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2015/11/04/middleeast/ayatollah-death-to-america/index.html
http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2016-election/how-democrats-can-keep-white-house-2016-n455116
Monday, November 2, 2015
Suggested readings for Nov. 2, 2015
Another unannotated version of Random Thought links ... as I continue my sabbatical from editorial commentary while escaping into the world of fiction where the good guys really are good guys, the bad guys are really evil and there is no confusing the two. Where honor, integrity, honesty, responsibility, self-discipline and duty are values that are treasured and exercised (or violated as the case may be with the evil folks) in everyday lives. It is not a perfect world but it sure beats the one I see out my window right now, where people give homage to those who lie and strive to get the power to impose their views on your life.
http://www.realclearworld.com/blog/2015/10/abbas_has_no_control_and_only_bad_choices_111527.html
http://pjmedia.com/blog/the-quiet-revolution-a-religious-revival-in-america/?singlepage=true
http://townhall.com/columnists/paulgreenberg/2015/10/30/a-sense-of-place-n2072754/page/full
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/29/will-china-colonize-north-korea.html
http://thediplomat.com/2015/10/why-japan-wont-get-too-involved-in-the-south-china-sea/
http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/10/30/us-southchinasea-usa-china-navy-idUSKCN0SO05320151030
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/11/we-need-an-energy-miracle/407881/
http://townhall.com/columnists/larryelder/2015/10/29/hillary-won-america-lost-n2072422/page/full
http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/31/politics/bush-gore-2000-election-results-studies/index.html
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34690546
http://pjmedia.com/victordavishanson/community-organizing-america/?singlepage=true
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Suggested readings from Oct. 29, 2015 and thereabouts
This will be an unannotated version of Random Thoughts ... not that I don't have any commentary to contribute, but I basically choose not to. Most of these articles stand by themselves and I hope that you find their content thought provoking.
Otherwise, I will say that I am letting my editorial brain take a break ... there is much out there that disturbs and distresses me ... and I do realize that my simple voice is but one of many in the wilderness. I watched the Republican presidential primary debates Wednesday night and came away disgusted ... not with the candidates but the moderators and the so-called pundits, talking head, journalists and other experts who appropriately, in my humble opinion, got thumbs stuck in their eyes.
I can not say any one candidate "won" the debates, but I can say that none "lost" the debates in my mind. When given the opportunity, there was a good, civil and free exchange of differing approaches to solving the nation's problems. That was nice to see.
However, I think Rubio hammered a nail when he pointed out that the "mainstream media" basically has abandoned its Fourth Estate role when it has stood quietly by, despite the incontrovertible evidence of the lies by Hillary Clinton and the President and numerous members of the administration, and said or did little.
It is really distressing to see official military spokesmen (of which I have been one) go before the public and blatantly lie about the role American troops are doing on in Iraq and Syria. Folks, there are boots on the ground. This boots are not trainers, supply technicians or REMFs. Delta Force is as about the furthest you can go out on the tip of the combat spear ... and when one of them dies in action ... it ain't because he was just standing around advising somebody on how to conduct a raid.
That is all ... read the following at your discretion.
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-34647651
http://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2015/10/25/red_storm_rising_-_again_108614.html
http://www.breitbart.com/california/2015/10/25/oakland-create-dept-race-equity/
http://www.ozy.com/acumen/colombia-you-thought-this-war-was-over/64704
http://www.realclearworld.com/blog/2015/10/eu_issues_a_blunt_threat_to_poland_111528.html
https://www.commentarymagazine.com/american-society/james-comey-war-on-police/
http://townhall.com/columnists/walterewilliams/2015/10/28/whos-responsible-n2071142/page/full
http://townhall.com/columnists/thomassowell/2015/10/27/hillary-20-n2071240/page/full
http://www.breitbart.com/tech/2015/10/27/why-online-anonymity-frightens-progressives/
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Suggested reading from Oct. 25, 2015 and thereabouts
Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take you to the page being referred to.
This is the weekend wrap-up… getting lazy in my old age …disgruntled... discouraged, disconcerted and generally downright grumpy.
Another perspective on on the collapse of the rule of law during the Obama era.
I think the Monseigneur forgot a part of his vow as a priest. You know the one about celibacy
It looks like the bidding war has begun to bring an NFL franchise back to Los Angeles.
Ouch ... this commentator takes the progressive icon Salon to task over guns.
As an intellectual argument, this raises some interesting questions about homosexuals and marriage.
I love how this story conflates all abortion opponents with the vandalism of one teen.
Is Moldova the next target on Putin's calendar?
Very excellent commentary on the wedding vendor and gays brouhaha.
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