The latest buzz on the news networks is that all of our "illegal" immigrants (and many of those supporting them) who think they have "divine rights" in these United States, are planning to have a massive, nationwide "March" on Monday, May 1, 2006.
Almost 300, 000 are expected to march right here in Chicago.
Many people (mostly immigrants, both legal and otherwise) are encouraging the Latinos (and other immigrants) to boycott work, school, and other obligations on Monday, so "their voices can be heard."
I am not a racist, and the farthest thing from ever being one. However:
If you want to have a peaceful demonstration....go ahead. And then, when you miss work, school, and your other obligations, then go peacefully to the Unemployment Office, and try to explain why you no longer have a job.
See if "those good people" buy your story.
I have a strong hunch they won't fall for it.
"Dear Congressman"
Someone sent the following to me, and I thought it was very good....Judge for yourself:
________________________________
Dear Congressman:
I'm about to plan a little trip with my family, and extended family, and I would like to ask you to assist me. I'm going to walk across the border from the U.S. into Mexico, and I need to make a few arrangements.
I know you can help with this. I plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas, passports, immigration quotas and laws. I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Vicente Fox, that I'm on my way over?
Please let him know that I will be expecting the following:
1. Free medical care for my entire family.
2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need, whether I use them or not.
3. All government forms need to be printed in English.
4. I want my kids to be taught by English-speaking teachers.
5. Schools need to include classes on American culture and history.
6. I want my kids to see the American flag flying on the top of the flag pole at their school with the Mexican flag flying further down.
7. Please plan to feed my kids at school for both breakfast and lunch.
8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access to government services.
9. I do not plan to have any car insurance, and I won't make any effort to learn local traffic laws.
10. In case one of the Mexican police officers does not get the memo from Pres. Fox to leave me alone, please be sure that all police officers speak English.
11. I plan to fly the U.S. flag from my house top, put flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.
12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying any taxes, and don't enforce any labor laws or tax laws.
13. Please tell all the people in the country to be extremely nice and never say a critical word about me, or about the strain I might place on the economy.
I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all the people who come to the U.S. from Mexico.
I am sure that Pres. Fox won't mind returning the favor if you ask him nicely.
However, if he gives you any trouble, just invite him to go quail hunting with your V.P.
Thank you so much for your kind help.
_________________________________________
What a letter!
________________________________
Dear Congressman:
I'm about to plan a little trip with my family, and extended family, and I would like to ask you to assist me. I'm going to walk across the border from the U.S. into Mexico, and I need to make a few arrangements.
I know you can help with this. I plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas, passports, immigration quotas and laws. I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Vicente Fox, that I'm on my way over?
Please let him know that I will be expecting the following:
1. Free medical care for my entire family.
2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need, whether I use them or not.
3. All government forms need to be printed in English.
4. I want my kids to be taught by English-speaking teachers.
5. Schools need to include classes on American culture and history.
6. I want my kids to see the American flag flying on the top of the flag pole at their school with the Mexican flag flying further down.
7. Please plan to feed my kids at school for both breakfast and lunch.
8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access to government services.
9. I do not plan to have any car insurance, and I won't make any effort to learn local traffic laws.
10. In case one of the Mexican police officers does not get the memo from Pres. Fox to leave me alone, please be sure that all police officers speak English.
11. I plan to fly the U.S. flag from my house top, put flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.
12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying any taxes, and don't enforce any labor laws or tax laws.
13. Please tell all the people in the country to be extremely nice and never say a critical word about me, or about the strain I might place on the economy.
I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all the people who come to the U.S. from Mexico.
I am sure that Pres. Fox won't mind returning the favor if you ask him nicely.
However, if he gives you any trouble, just invite him to go quail hunting with your V.P.
Thank you so much for your kind help.
_________________________________________
What a letter!
Easter Sunday 2006: Great friends, Great food!
For the first time in many years, I celebrated the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ in Huntsville, Alabama with friends and family.
My "sister" and "brother-in-law" (in quotations, only because we are not blood-related, but that doesn't matter after all these years) Marti and Anthony Stone invited me to worship with them at the First United Methodist Church of Huntsville. It was terrific. The Senior Pastor, Don Cross, preached an incredible message on the "Mysterious Ways of God"--it was profound.
I had never worshipped among this congregation, even though I had heard of them for years, and was very well aware of their location.
After lunch, the "clan" gathered at the home of Jim and Jane Pearson (Marti's mom). These two wonderful people have been "parents" to me in many ways for more than 20+ years now. I grew up in a trailor about 1.5 miles from them. The Pearsons continue to be the epitome of class, grace, and what it means to be all-around great people.
The meal was marvelous (as always in Jane's kitchen). Everything I know about "class and style" I learned in the home of Jane Pearson. I can thank her for everything I have learned about dignity, and "doing it right."
Later that evening, I was blest to see my good friend Rod Stansky. Rod and I have a friendship history that stretches more than twenty years also. We became friends while students at Lee College (now Lee University...www.leeuniversity.edu), and have remained friends over the years. I have known his parents for many years. His precious mother (Frances) never forgets my birthday, or any other special occasion. I can always count on a card, or a gift from she and her husband, Bernard.
Rod and I found our way to a TGI-Fridays, where we had a great meal (I paid, of course), and some wonderful conversation. Rod is one of those people that I can pour my heart out to, regardless of the subject matter. He and I have discussed things that I would never--not in a million years--even breathe to anyone else.
Few people have had the profound and strategic impact on my life that Rod has had over our many years of friendship. His sense of humor, his graciousness, and his open-heart continues to endear him to me, and many others.
So Easter 2006 was indeed a great day for me. It was a day of "Resurrection" in more ways than one.
My "sister" and "brother-in-law" (in quotations, only because we are not blood-related, but that doesn't matter after all these years) Marti and Anthony Stone invited me to worship with them at the First United Methodist Church of Huntsville. It was terrific. The Senior Pastor, Don Cross, preached an incredible message on the "Mysterious Ways of God"--it was profound.
I had never worshipped among this congregation, even though I had heard of them for years, and was very well aware of their location.
After lunch, the "clan" gathered at the home of Jim and Jane Pearson (Marti's mom). These two wonderful people have been "parents" to me in many ways for more than 20+ years now. I grew up in a trailor about 1.5 miles from them. The Pearsons continue to be the epitome of class, grace, and what it means to be all-around great people.
The meal was marvelous (as always in Jane's kitchen). Everything I know about "class and style" I learned in the home of Jane Pearson. I can thank her for everything I have learned about dignity, and "doing it right."
Later that evening, I was blest to see my good friend Rod Stansky. Rod and I have a friendship history that stretches more than twenty years also. We became friends while students at Lee College (now Lee University...www.leeuniversity.edu), and have remained friends over the years. I have known his parents for many years. His precious mother (Frances) never forgets my birthday, or any other special occasion. I can always count on a card, or a gift from she and her husband, Bernard.
Rod and I found our way to a TGI-Fridays, where we had a great meal (I paid, of course), and some wonderful conversation. Rod is one of those people that I can pour my heart out to, regardless of the subject matter. He and I have discussed things that I would never--not in a million years--even breathe to anyone else.
Few people have had the profound and strategic impact on my life that Rod has had over our many years of friendship. His sense of humor, his graciousness, and his open-heart continues to endear him to me, and many others.
So Easter 2006 was indeed a great day for me. It was a day of "Resurrection" in more ways than one.
Friday's Agenda: Great friends, Great food!
During my just completed vacation to Alabama, I had the priceless opportunity to reconnect with people who have meant a great deal to me over at least 3.5 decades.
Teresa Rollings (one of the five most important women in my life--then and now) was my High School Anatomy and Physiology teacher, as well as my Chemistry instructor. She won my heart in so many ways, and became that mentor, encourager, strengthener, and tremendous friend that EVERYONE needs when they are a confused high schooler. Now Tereasa is the High School Principal at Madison Academy in the Huntsville area. Here's a link to her:
http://www.macademy.org/administration/hs-principal.php
Tereasa and I had a wonderful lunch at this place called "Covington's" over in the downtown district of Huntsville. It was just delightful. We had many laughs, and a few tears. Tereasa is my hero in so many ways. She always will be.
That evening, my great friends Anthony and Marti (my sort-of adopted sister) Stone treated me to dinner in the city, and I can't remember when I have enjoyed dinner and conversation more than I did that evening. I don't remember the name of the restaurant, but we did sit outside on the patio, and it was marvelous. The cheese plate was scrumptious, and the entrees were terrific. Our server...dont' remember his name either...was a delight, and the conversation with him was load-lifting.
It seems like all I did that day was "eat."
Oh well, what are vacations for anyway?
Teresa Rollings (one of the five most important women in my life--then and now) was my High School Anatomy and Physiology teacher, as well as my Chemistry instructor. She won my heart in so many ways, and became that mentor, encourager, strengthener, and tremendous friend that EVERYONE needs when they are a confused high schooler. Now Tereasa is the High School Principal at Madison Academy in the Huntsville area. Here's a link to her:
http://www.macademy.org/administration/hs-principal.php
Tereasa and I had a wonderful lunch at this place called "Covington's" over in the downtown district of Huntsville. It was just delightful. We had many laughs, and a few tears. Tereasa is my hero in so many ways. She always will be.
That evening, my great friends Anthony and Marti (my sort-of adopted sister) Stone treated me to dinner in the city, and I can't remember when I have enjoyed dinner and conversation more than I did that evening. I don't remember the name of the restaurant, but we did sit outside on the patio, and it was marvelous. The cheese plate was scrumptious, and the entrees were terrific. Our server...dont' remember his name either...was a delight, and the conversation with him was load-lifting.
It seems like all I did that day was "eat."
Oh well, what are vacations for anyway?
Back HOME in Chicago!
For those of you who regularly "check my blog..." please forgive me for not writing a bit more frequently.
From April 13th through 23rd, I was not available to access my blog page, and create a new entry, detailing my "goings-on." So I'll try to recap some of the last ten days in this forum.
April 13th: Going back to Dixie
Thanks to the wonderful generosity of a wonderful family member, I was able to get on a flight from Chicago-O'Hare International Airport (at "O-dark thirty") and fly nonstop to Huntsville, Alabama--my place of birth, rearing, and coming of puberty, and somewhat adulthood.
Most of my biological and extended family still live in North Alabama..
I must say that it was "hotter than blazes" in the Huntsville area--and I knew it immediately.
I was wearing a long-sleeved pull over, and some jeans.
The minute I walked out of the aircraft into the Huntsville airport, I started "clutching" my throat, because of the heat. It was almost 90 degrees that day!
The pollen was swirling all over the place. The gorgeous flowers (or as the South Georgians would say, "Gawjus flairs") were blooming, and decorating the area with their fabulous colors.
And my precious grandmother, who will soon be 84 years old, was delighted to see her oldest grandson.
I was glad to see her also.
More to come.
From April 13th through 23rd, I was not available to access my blog page, and create a new entry, detailing my "goings-on." So I'll try to recap some of the last ten days in this forum.
April 13th: Going back to Dixie
Thanks to the wonderful generosity of a wonderful family member, I was able to get on a flight from Chicago-O'Hare International Airport (at "O-dark thirty") and fly nonstop to Huntsville, Alabama--my place of birth, rearing, and coming of puberty, and somewhat adulthood.
Most of my biological and extended family still live in North Alabama..
I must say that it was "hotter than blazes" in the Huntsville area--and I knew it immediately.
I was wearing a long-sleeved pull over, and some jeans.
The minute I walked out of the aircraft into the Huntsville airport, I started "clutching" my throat, because of the heat. It was almost 90 degrees that day!
The pollen was swirling all over the place. The gorgeous flowers (or as the South Georgians would say, "Gawjus flairs") were blooming, and decorating the area with their fabulous colors.
And my precious grandmother, who will soon be 84 years old, was delighted to see her oldest grandson.
I was glad to see her also.
More to come.
Pray for my friend David....
My friend David just lost his dad--unexpectedly, and very suddenly.
I don't know all the details, but I do know that David is pretty devastated with all that has happened in the last 48 hours. I know that he has a strong relationship with Jesus Christ, and that God will be his comfort, when all other means are either exhausted or have failed.
David lives a very full life as it is. He is an accomplished author, an occasional public speaker, and an otherwise working man--like so many of us.
Please pray for him.
I don't know all the details, but I do know that David is pretty devastated with all that has happened in the last 48 hours. I know that he has a strong relationship with Jesus Christ, and that God will be his comfort, when all other means are either exhausted or have failed.
David lives a very full life as it is. He is an accomplished author, an occasional public speaker, and an otherwise working man--like so many of us.
Please pray for him.
So, what should be done about the "immigrants"?
It seems that the "illegal immigrants" (also known as the "lawbreakers") in the United States are forcing the Federal, State, and Municipal government officials to finally pay attention to them and their plight.
Don't get me wrong here, though. I am still very much against placating anyone who insists on coming to this country illegally and then demanding rights and privileges to which they are not entitled.
I wonder just how much my grocery bill would increase if we deported all the "illegal immigrants"--since many of them harvest the crops for meager wages?
I wonder just how my life would change without 11+ million illegal immigrants inhabiting this land undocumented?
One cannot help but notice all the "marches" and all the ballyhooing from every corner of the nation.
But one cannot help but notice also that the "end" does not justify the means....and particularly not where legal residence in this country is concerned.
I have a few suggestions for those who want to come here and be treated with all the rights and privileges thereof:
1) Learn the English language. Teach your children to speak the language.
2) Fly the AMERICAN FLAG. If you are not in love with this country, I want to personally invite you to go back to a country that you are in love with enough to fly their flag.
3) Learn the customs and courtesies of the United States. Teach them to your children, and enforce them rigorously.
4) Insist that anyone who employs you FOLLOW THE LAWS of this land. You will do yourself and every other American a huge favor.
God bless the United States of America!
Don't get me wrong here, though. I am still very much against placating anyone who insists on coming to this country illegally and then demanding rights and privileges to which they are not entitled.
I wonder just how much my grocery bill would increase if we deported all the "illegal immigrants"--since many of them harvest the crops for meager wages?
I wonder just how my life would change without 11+ million illegal immigrants inhabiting this land undocumented?
One cannot help but notice all the "marches" and all the ballyhooing from every corner of the nation.
But one cannot help but notice also that the "end" does not justify the means....and particularly not where legal residence in this country is concerned.
I have a few suggestions for those who want to come here and be treated with all the rights and privileges thereof:
1) Learn the English language. Teach your children to speak the language.
2) Fly the AMERICAN FLAG. If you are not in love with this country, I want to personally invite you to go back to a country that you are in love with enough to fly their flag.
3) Learn the customs and courtesies of the United States. Teach them to your children, and enforce them rigorously.
4) Insist that anyone who employs you FOLLOW THE LAWS of this land. You will do yourself and every other American a huge favor.
God bless the United States of America!
When you are in Chicago...
Please visit these wonderful places:
For Sunday Morning worship: The Moody Church 1609 N LaSalle Street (at the tri-corner of Clark Street, North Avenue, and LaSalle Street). The website is: www.moodychurch.org
Senior Pastor, Dr Erwin Lutzer, and the saints at The Moody Church will give you a warm, hearty, and genuine welcome to be part of a historic congregation in the heart of the Windy City.
For a wonderful lunch:
The Signature Room on the 95th Floor of the John Hancock Building (North Michigan Avenue), the Buffet Lunch (Monday through Saturday) is about $18 and worth every penny of it. The fabulous view of the city alone is worth that price. And the food is scrumptious. And for really picky eaters, you can order from the menu.
And take the CTA buses and get a grand view of this spectacular city that I've called "home" now for almost six years.
Chicago: Home of the 2005 World Series Champion CHICAGO WHITE SOX!
For Sunday Morning worship: The Moody Church 1609 N LaSalle Street (at the tri-corner of Clark Street, North Avenue, and LaSalle Street). The website is: www.moodychurch.org
Senior Pastor, Dr Erwin Lutzer, and the saints at The Moody Church will give you a warm, hearty, and genuine welcome to be part of a historic congregation in the heart of the Windy City.
For a wonderful lunch:
The Signature Room on the 95th Floor of the John Hancock Building (North Michigan Avenue), the Buffet Lunch (Monday through Saturday) is about $18 and worth every penny of it. The fabulous view of the city alone is worth that price. And the food is scrumptious. And for really picky eaters, you can order from the menu.
And take the CTA buses and get a grand view of this spectacular city that I've called "home" now for almost six years.
Chicago: Home of the 2005 World Series Champion CHICAGO WHITE SOX!
Compassionate and Legal.....
With all the brouhaha about "illegal immigrants" and their so-called rights, I feel that I must weigh in on this one. I live in a largely Hispanic neighborhood here in Chicago, where I have bought my very first home. About 90% of my neighbors and the local businesses are Hispanic owned and operated. So I can speak somewhat knowledgeably about this issue. Here goes:
1) There is a RIGHT way to enter this country. Thousands enter this country the RIGHT way every year. And that rule should and MUST apply to everyone.
2) Anyone who enters this country illegally is breaking the laws of this land. We call that "crimes." Those are largely nonviolent crimes...but crimes nonetheless. And those crimes--and the people who commit them--should and must have consequences.
3) Businesses and employers who provide jobs (regardless of the wage structure of those jobs) to people who are not legally authorized to work in this country are committing crimes. Those crimes should and must have consequences as well. Regardless of who the employer is.
4) If someone wants to enter this country and become a permanent resident here, they should be STRONGLY encouraged to:
Learn the prevailing language of business and commerce: That would be ENGLISH.
Do everything possible to become a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Ensure that all family members/friends/etc understand that this is a nation of LAWS, and
those laws are not suggestions, nor arbitrary.
5) All 500,000 people who marched in Los Angeles last Saturday and Sunday are FREE to return to their "former countries" as far as I am concerned. If America is so great (and it is), then become an American, or at least come here legally. That means you will display the American flag when you are marching....not the Mexican flag, or from any other country. If you are so in love with your "native land"--then go back. It's that simple.
6) Our economy may take a few hits when we realize that obeying the labor laws is in our national interests both now and in the future. But the economy will rebound, and the nation will be better for it. As it stands now, we are setting ourselves up for a horrific tragedy from which we may never fully recover.
7) Our social and safety nets are there for a purpose. Empowering people to come and reside here illegally is NOT compassionate, socially responsible, or a good idea. We must become a people who respect the laws of this land again. And work to change those that are not compassionate, socially responsible or a good idea.
8) Every person who has ever come to this country LEGALLY from another land is being SLAPPED in the face by those who insist on coming here against the laws of this land. Tell the Pakistani taxi driver, or the Nigerian food service worker-- who has risked their lives to come here LEGALLY--that it can't be done. They have done it....Legally!
I am personally very tired of hearing about "we have the right to....." Because when you break the laws of the land, you have abdicated any privileges and rights that you may have otherwise eventually been able to obtain. No one has the right to break the IMMIGRATION laws of the United States of America, and get away with it.
It's that simple.
1) There is a RIGHT way to enter this country. Thousands enter this country the RIGHT way every year. And that rule should and MUST apply to everyone.
2) Anyone who enters this country illegally is breaking the laws of this land. We call that "crimes." Those are largely nonviolent crimes...but crimes nonetheless. And those crimes--and the people who commit them--should and must have consequences.
3) Businesses and employers who provide jobs (regardless of the wage structure of those jobs) to people who are not legally authorized to work in this country are committing crimes. Those crimes should and must have consequences as well. Regardless of who the employer is.
4) If someone wants to enter this country and become a permanent resident here, they should be STRONGLY encouraged to:
Learn the prevailing language of business and commerce: That would be ENGLISH.
Do everything possible to become a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Ensure that all family members/friends/etc understand that this is a nation of LAWS, and
those laws are not suggestions, nor arbitrary.
5) All 500,000 people who marched in Los Angeles last Saturday and Sunday are FREE to return to their "former countries" as far as I am concerned. If America is so great (and it is), then become an American, or at least come here legally. That means you will display the American flag when you are marching....not the Mexican flag, or from any other country. If you are so in love with your "native land"--then go back. It's that simple.
6) Our economy may take a few hits when we realize that obeying the labor laws is in our national interests both now and in the future. But the economy will rebound, and the nation will be better for it. As it stands now, we are setting ourselves up for a horrific tragedy from which we may never fully recover.
7) Our social and safety nets are there for a purpose. Empowering people to come and reside here illegally is NOT compassionate, socially responsible, or a good idea. We must become a people who respect the laws of this land again. And work to change those that are not compassionate, socially responsible or a good idea.
8) Every person who has ever come to this country LEGALLY from another land is being SLAPPED in the face by those who insist on coming here against the laws of this land. Tell the Pakistani taxi driver, or the Nigerian food service worker-- who has risked their lives to come here LEGALLY--that it can't be done. They have done it....Legally!
I am personally very tired of hearing about "we have the right to....." Because when you break the laws of the land, you have abdicated any privileges and rights that you may have otherwise eventually been able to obtain. No one has the right to break the IMMIGRATION laws of the United States of America, and get away with it.
It's that simple.
When It's All Said and Done....
A friend sent this to me a few days ago:
_________________________________
Ben Stein's Last Column...
For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called "Monday
Night At Morton's." (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be
frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now,
Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading
his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.
============================================
How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?
As I begin to write this, I "slug" it, as we writers say, which means I
put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is
"e-online FINAL," and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing
this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved
writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.
It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and
the world's change have overtaken it. On a small scale, Morton's, while
better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still
brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw
Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before
that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in
which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's
is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.
Beyond that, a bigger change has happened. I no longer think Hollywood
stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and
they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who
makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a
camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.
How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane
luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a "star" we mean someone
bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not
riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained
in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese
girls do their nails.
They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any
longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked
his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq. He could have been met
by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam
Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.
A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a
road north of Baghdad. He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him.
A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S.
soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded
ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her
aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family
desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad.
The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish
weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two
of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for
the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.
We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our
magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay
but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and
near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.
I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor
values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that
who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.
There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament...the policemen
and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they
will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who
have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and
nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children;
the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.
Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World
Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a
real hero.
I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that
matters. This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another
way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier
or as good a comic as Steve Martin...or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as
good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald.
Or even remotely close to any of them.
But I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above
all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to
be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well
with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared
for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my
father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered
immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.
This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers
in Iraq or the firefighters in New York. I came to realize that life lived
to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in
return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has
placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.
Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.
By Ben Stein
>
_________________________________
Ben Stein's Last Column...
For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called "Monday
Night At Morton's." (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be
frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now,
Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading
his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.
============================================
How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?
As I begin to write this, I "slug" it, as we writers say, which means I
put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is
"e-online FINAL," and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing
this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved
writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.
It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and
the world's change have overtaken it. On a small scale, Morton's, while
better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still
brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw
Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before
that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in
which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's
is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.
Beyond that, a bigger change has happened. I no longer think Hollywood
stars are terribly important. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and
they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who
makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a
camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.
How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane
luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a "star" we mean someone
bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not
riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained
in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese
girls do their nails.
They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any
longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked
his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq. He could have been met
by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam
Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.
A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a
road north of Baghdad. He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him.
A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S.
soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded
ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her
aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family
desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad.
The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish
weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two
of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for
the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.
We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our
magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay
but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and
near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.
I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor
values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that
who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.
There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament...the policemen
and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they
will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who
have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and
nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children;
the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.
Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World
Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a
real hero.
I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that
matters. This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another
way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier
or as good a comic as Steve Martin...or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as
good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald.
Or even remotely close to any of them.
But I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above
all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to
be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well
with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared
for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my
father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered
immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.
This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers
in Iraq or the firefighters in New York. I came to realize that life lived
to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in
return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has
placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.
Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.
By Ben Stein
>
Happy Birthday to me!
There are few days in the calendar year that I expect someone to make a FUSS over me.
But my birthday is always one of them.
I was born on this date, 44 years ago in Huntsville, Alabama--and whew, what a ride it has been!
God has been good to me.
But my birthday is always one of them.
I was born on this date, 44 years ago in Huntsville, Alabama--and whew, what a ride it has been!
God has been good to me.
The Power of Words....
The last four months have been very difficult for me--on many different levels.
I've experienced firsthand the power of words to bless and heal, and conversely, the power of words to injure, wound, and destroy.
A man who was my pastor for more than 3 years called me some names that were not only unchristian, but untrue. I've not had a conversation with him now in almost four months. When he was confronted by another brother concerning this situation, this pastor claimed unmitigated innocence. Claiming to "love me"--but betraying those very claims with his own words. Those are the words that injure, wound, and destroy.
But a precious friend here continues to remind me of how very loved and special that I am--to their family and to God and His family. Those are the power of "healing words."
I want to use those "healing words" whenever and wherever possible.
I've experienced firsthand the power of words to bless and heal, and conversely, the power of words to injure, wound, and destroy.
A man who was my pastor for more than 3 years called me some names that were not only unchristian, but untrue. I've not had a conversation with him now in almost four months. When he was confronted by another brother concerning this situation, this pastor claimed unmitigated innocence. Claiming to "love me"--but betraying those very claims with his own words. Those are the words that injure, wound, and destroy.
But a precious friend here continues to remind me of how very loved and special that I am--to their family and to God and His family. Those are the power of "healing words."
I want to use those "healing words" whenever and wherever possible.
HEROES.....think about this...
The Bluegrass/Southern Gospel family group, The Isaacs (www.theisaacs.com) wrote and recorded a marvelous song a couple of years ago. It's called "Heroes."
This wonderful song talks about the "real heroes" in American society: those people who care for children with special needs--physical, emotional, and spiritual.
My next door neighbor is a single mom with a special needs child. He just turned 13 years old a few months ago...yet my neighbor loves his dearly. This song is for her:
Momma combs his hair and Daddy helps him brush his teeth
Day after day for thirty years the same routine
The special needs he lives with make life seem so unfair
But he thanks God every day
Because he knows Mom and Dad are there..
He's a hero and she's a hero
It doesn't matter that nobody knows their name
They keep on giving to make life worth living
Might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same
They tried for many years to have a baby of their own
But God knew a little girl who didn't have a home
Someone else's burden was their blessing in disguise
And now she's got a Mom and Daddy
there to hold her when she cries
Every single parent who must carry twice the load
And those who sacrifice to raise a child that's not their own
They dedicate their time
to make a difference in someone else's life
And in my eyes...
He's a hero, and she's a hero..
Does'nt matter if anyone knows their names....
They might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same.
Ain't it the truth?
This wonderful song talks about the "real heroes" in American society: those people who care for children with special needs--physical, emotional, and spiritual.
My next door neighbor is a single mom with a special needs child. He just turned 13 years old a few months ago...yet my neighbor loves his dearly. This song is for her:
Momma combs his hair and Daddy helps him brush his teeth
Day after day for thirty years the same routine
The special needs he lives with make life seem so unfair
But he thanks God every day
Because he knows Mom and Dad are there..
He's a hero and she's a hero
It doesn't matter that nobody knows their name
They keep on giving to make life worth living
Might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same
They tried for many years to have a baby of their own
But God knew a little girl who didn't have a home
Someone else's burden was their blessing in disguise
And now she's got a Mom and Daddy
there to hold her when she cries
Every single parent who must carry twice the load
And those who sacrifice to raise a child that's not their own
They dedicate their time
to make a difference in someone else's life
And in my eyes...
He's a hero, and she's a hero..
Does'nt matter if anyone knows their names....
They might go unnoticed but they're heroes just the same.
Ain't it the truth?
"Abiding" on "Angel Lane"....Thanks OPRAH!
I happen to have the OPRAH show (www.oprah.com) on in my office right now. They are showing the many houses that the "Angel network" is building in the aftermath of the Katrina disaster last fall.
I know a preacher who will deride Oprah Winfrey every opportunity he gets. And I'm truly saddened for him because of his great disdain for this lady with whom he disagrees.
I don't agree with many of her "spiritual" positions either. Actually, I disagree with just about all of them...
But, I cannot ignore all the good that this lady who has worked hard, been generous, and become a household name, had done for the desperate and needy in the Gulf Coast area.
My only question would be: "How can the Church of Jesus Christ do the same thing?"
We have the resources. We have the people.
Now, do we have the heart?
That really is something to consider.
I know a preacher who will deride Oprah Winfrey every opportunity he gets. And I'm truly saddened for him because of his great disdain for this lady with whom he disagrees.
I don't agree with many of her "spiritual" positions either. Actually, I disagree with just about all of them...
But, I cannot ignore all the good that this lady who has worked hard, been generous, and become a household name, had done for the desperate and needy in the Gulf Coast area.
My only question would be: "How can the Church of Jesus Christ do the same thing?"
We have the resources. We have the people.
Now, do we have the heart?
That really is something to consider.
From My Kitchen.....It's YUMMY
Tomato/Red Pepper Soup
You will need:
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves of garlic, pressed OR 2 teaspoons chopped garlic (from the jar)
4-5 large red Bell peppers, halved, ribbed, and seeded
5 large tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups tomato juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
Directions:
1. In a large sauce pan, heat the oil and saute the onions and garlic over medium-low for five minutes while pan is covered. Set aside.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the bell peppers cut sides down, and flatted with palm of hand. Roast them for ten minutes under the broiler flame--skins will turn brown/black. Take them out of oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then place in a blender.
3. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the tomatoes cut sides down and broil them for ten minutes. Allow to cool and place them in the blender with red peppers.
4. Blend them into a fine puree.
5. Return the puree mixture to the sauce pan with the onions and garlic. Add tomato juice, and the remaining ingredients.
6. Simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes.
It is YUMMY!
And for my faithful readers, please tell me how you either LIKE or DIDN'T like this recipe.
You will need:
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves of garlic, pressed OR 2 teaspoons chopped garlic (from the jar)
4-5 large red Bell peppers, halved, ribbed, and seeded
5 large tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups tomato juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
Directions:
1. In a large sauce pan, heat the oil and saute the onions and garlic over medium-low for five minutes while pan is covered. Set aside.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the bell peppers cut sides down, and flatted with palm of hand. Roast them for ten minutes under the broiler flame--skins will turn brown/black. Take them out of oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Then place in a blender.
3. On a rimmed baking sheet, place the tomatoes cut sides down and broil them for ten minutes. Allow to cool and place them in the blender with red peppers.
4. Blend them into a fine puree.
5. Return the puree mixture to the sauce pan with the onions and garlic. Add tomato juice, and the remaining ingredients.
6. Simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes.
It is YUMMY!
And for my faithful readers, please tell me how you either LIKE or DIDN'T like this recipe.
Family Matters...
Well, even though I try not to "self-indulge" here, I felt that I should share something very close to my heart today: Family.
I grew up without parents. My biological producers decided to divorce shortly after I arrived on the scene, and my paternal grandparents (mostly my Grandmother) accepted the laborious duty of making sure that I grew up reasonably sane.
But I've always considered the "church" my family. God's family is so very precious to me on so many levels.
Even though I do have biological relatives, we are close from a distance--and it works well for everyone involved.
Or at least it does for me.
Yet, the family of God--those wonderful Christians who know God as Father, Christ as Saviour and Forgiver--these people have been my family now for more than 37 years.
These are the people who loved and nurtured me, faithfully though imperfectly, as a teenager.
These are the same people who loved me, nurtured me, and cared for me as a backwards, bumbling, and completely broken college student.
The family of God made sure that I never slept out in the cold, or missed a meal because I didn't have access to food.
The family of God became even more precious to me when I entered the United States Air Force, moved away from familiar surroundings, and expanded my horizons--whether I liked it or not.
And I did like it. Very much.
I cannot overstate the importance of the "family"--God's family in my life.
How very precious these people are.
I grew up without parents. My biological producers decided to divorce shortly after I arrived on the scene, and my paternal grandparents (mostly my Grandmother) accepted the laborious duty of making sure that I grew up reasonably sane.
But I've always considered the "church" my family. God's family is so very precious to me on so many levels.
Even though I do have biological relatives, we are close from a distance--and it works well for everyone involved.
Or at least it does for me.
Yet, the family of God--those wonderful Christians who know God as Father, Christ as Saviour and Forgiver--these people have been my family now for more than 37 years.
These are the people who loved and nurtured me, faithfully though imperfectly, as a teenager.
These are the same people who loved me, nurtured me, and cared for me as a backwards, bumbling, and completely broken college student.
The family of God made sure that I never slept out in the cold, or missed a meal because I didn't have access to food.
The family of God became even more precious to me when I entered the United States Air Force, moved away from familiar surroundings, and expanded my horizons--whether I liked it or not.
And I did like it. Very much.
I cannot overstate the importance of the "family"--God's family in my life.
How very precious these people are.
Last night....I had a dream....
Last night...or very early this morning, I had a dream about someone whom I once considered a dear friend. A precious Christian brother, with whom I had tremendous fellowship for a while.
And due to some very terrible circumstances, our fellowship has been broken for a long time. I've not heard his voice for two years now. I've been rebuffed at every turn.
I often remember him, and wonder what I could have done, or could do even now to restore the fellowship that we once enjoyed.
I won't call names, but please pray for my friend. Pray for his safety, for his security, and for God our Heavenly Father to be close to him today.
Please.
And due to some very terrible circumstances, our fellowship has been broken for a long time. I've not heard his voice for two years now. I've been rebuffed at every turn.
I often remember him, and wonder what I could have done, or could do even now to restore the fellowship that we once enjoyed.
I won't call names, but please pray for my friend. Pray for his safety, for his security, and for God our Heavenly Father to be close to him today.
Please.
Happy Birthday, Kevin Moses!
In the Spring of 1997 I met one of the most amazing and godly people that I have ever known.
It was in the second semester of my Historical Theology course in seminary, that Kevin Moses and I became pals. He wasn't understanding everything that was being presented by the professor, and he asked if I would be willing to help him.
I said sure...and I'm glad that I did.
Later that week, Kevin came over to my apartment, and I just happen to be cooking. I asked if he would like to stay. He said "sure", and a deep friendship began that is still strong today.
Now 9 years later, Kevin and I have the strongest of friendships.
We were roommates for two years, less two months. We have traveled to California and New York City together--a first for him, and not for me.
His parents regard me as part of the family--and warm my soul every time I talk with them.
His wife Monica, is one of the most gifted and gracious people you would ever want to meet.
And Kevin turns 31 today!
Happy Birthday my precious friend.
It was in the second semester of my Historical Theology course in seminary, that Kevin Moses and I became pals. He wasn't understanding everything that was being presented by the professor, and he asked if I would be willing to help him.
I said sure...and I'm glad that I did.
Later that week, Kevin came over to my apartment, and I just happen to be cooking. I asked if he would like to stay. He said "sure", and a deep friendship began that is still strong today.
Now 9 years later, Kevin and I have the strongest of friendships.
We were roommates for two years, less two months. We have traveled to California and New York City together--a first for him, and not for me.
His parents regard me as part of the family--and warm my soul every time I talk with them.
His wife Monica, is one of the most gifted and gracious people you would ever want to meet.
And Kevin turns 31 today!
Happy Birthday my precious friend.
Who benefits from all of this?
In 2002 a major scandal erupted in the Roman Catholic Church here in the United States: Alleged sexual abuses, and worse yet, "cover ups" by the priests, archbishops, and cardinals who are responsible for "the church" here in the United States.
I'm not a Catholic. I never will be a Catholic, I'm pretty sure.
But I am concerned, and concerned on several levels.
If the "victims" were molested, violated, or abused in any way, why has it taken so long for them to come forward with their allegations?
I am not denying that sexual abuse ever happened in the Catholic Church, or in any other denomination for that matter. I'm sure it has, and it is sad indeed. And it should be dealt with here and now.
But what if the persons so accused are found to be "innocent" of the alleged abuses?
Who shepherds and cares for them? Who will be there to help them restore their lives? Who will be there to help them repair--if possible--their ministries and their personal reputations?
I am not denying the awful harm and the shame that surrounds those who have, in fact, been abused by people of the cloth, clergy and laity. It's shameful, it's illegal, and it should be dealt with. Now.
But, could some of this hullabaloo be about "money" and "anger" and other things?
For the sake of God's people--in every denomination--I pray the truth will come to light.
Sooner, rather than later.
I'm not a Catholic. I never will be a Catholic, I'm pretty sure.
But I am concerned, and concerned on several levels.
If the "victims" were molested, violated, or abused in any way, why has it taken so long for them to come forward with their allegations?
I am not denying that sexual abuse ever happened in the Catholic Church, or in any other denomination for that matter. I'm sure it has, and it is sad indeed. And it should be dealt with here and now.
But what if the persons so accused are found to be "innocent" of the alleged abuses?
Who shepherds and cares for them? Who will be there to help them restore their lives? Who will be there to help them repair--if possible--their ministries and their personal reputations?
I am not denying the awful harm and the shame that surrounds those who have, in fact, been abused by people of the cloth, clergy and laity. It's shameful, it's illegal, and it should be dealt with. Now.
But, could some of this hullabaloo be about "money" and "anger" and other things?
For the sake of God's people--in every denomination--I pray the truth will come to light.
Sooner, rather than later.
Living in 2006....
A friend recently sent this to me, via email. I thought it was pretty funny....and so very true.
*************************************************************
Subject: Living in 2006
YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2006 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )
12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this.
AND NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.
*************************************************************
Subject: Living in 2006
YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2006 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )
12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this.
AND NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.
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