To Wheedle Or Not To Wheedle

From My Perspective - - -

Everyone has been exposed to one who wheedles. In the current debates and pending actions of The Congress and President – there is no short supply of wheedling. To Wheedle is: “to endeavor to influence (a person) by smooth, flattering, or beguiling words or acts; to obtain through the use of flattery or guile…” Some of the synonyms for wheedle allow for a broader sense of what the words and acts mean – words such as, “finagle, maneuver, seduce, lure, mislead…” Obviously, wheedling can become a lifestyle for some people.

One of the problems with a person who is characterized as one who wheedles is the entitlement expectation of such a person. He/She claims to have a right to certain privileges and benefits apart from any self-help effort. In the process, one of the things that is sacrificed is a spirit and expression of gratitude and Thanksgiving. An excellent Editorial Comment is made by Bill Shuler, pastor of Capital Life Church in Arlington, VA on FoxNews.Com. He wrote and stated the following - - - Our thanks are best found in our giving.
In 1621 Pilgrims joined together with Native American Indians on New England soil to enjoy a feast celebrating the Pilgrims very first harvest. Plymouth’s Governor, William Bradford, made provisions for a day of prayer and thanksgiving. The following are 10 thoughts on Thanksgiving:
1. Americans will consume over 45 million turkeys on Thanksgiving Day.
2. The average Thanksgiving meal will constitute between 2,400 and 4,500 calories.
3. The U.S. population will gain over 171 tons of weight this year.
4. "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live them.” -- President John F. Kennedy
5. Many psychologists concur that being thankful is the healthiest of all emotions.
6. Being thankful is a key component of healthy relationships.
7. We should be thankful for what we already have before we ask for more.
8. Our thanks are best found in our giving.
9. The Scriptures encourage us to give thanks in all circumstances and not to forget all God’s benefits.
10. Being thankful aligns us for wholeness.
In 1789 General George Washington declared by proclamation: “Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection, aid and favors…Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be: that we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks for his kind care and protection of the people of this country, and for all the great and various favors which he has been pleased to confer upon us.”

Just A Reminder as Families and Friends gather this Thursday – Be Sure To Thank God for His Provision and Care - - -
Psalm 92:1-2
"It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your loving-kindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night."

Psalm 100
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Consider these things with me!

Supercilious Slogan

From My Perspective - - -

If a person is reluctant to use the Holy Bible as “the only infallible rule for faith and practice”, neither should that one use it for any political statement, sentiment or hopeful action. When people use the Bible to espouse a political philosophy or to arouse and inflame public sentiment, it is safe to say these people have gone too far. A valid hermeneutical statement is: “A Text out of its Context is a Pretext.” Also, this Catechetical thought given in response to the Question – What do the Scriptures principally teach? – the Answer is: The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man.” Well – along comes a current Bumper and T-Shirt Slogan suggesting that one “Pray for Obama” and uses the “text” in Psalm 109:8 to define a Political point of view and Sentiment: “May his days be few; may another take his office!” In the “context” that includes Psalm 109:9-10 the following is expressed: “May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow! May his children wander about and beg, seeking food far from the ruins they inhabit!”

Charles Haddon Spurgeon who wrote and produced the Treasury of David (a detailed commentary on all of the Psalms) more than a century ago offers this overview of Psalm 109: “In the first five verses (Psalms 109:1-5) David humbly pleads with God that he may be delivered from his remorseless and false hearted enemies. From Psalms 109:6-20, filled with a prophetic fervor, which carries him entirely beyond himself, he denounces judgment upon his foes, and then from Psalms 109:21-31 he returns to his communion with God in prayer and praise. The central portion of the Psalm in which the difficulty lies must be regarded not as the personal wish of the Psalmist in cool blood, but as his prophetic denunciation of such persons as he describes, and emphatically of one special ‘son of perdition’…” A safe instructional (hermeneutical) principle is: “Let Scripture interpret Scripture…” To properly understand the prophetic nature of Psalm 109:8-10, one must read Acts 1:15 through 20, “In those days Peter stood up…and said: Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry…For it is written in the Book of Psalms: May his camp become desolate, and let there be no one to dwell in it; and Let another take his office…” Obviously, this became the judgment upon Judas Iscariot for his disloyal and treacherous act of betraying the Lord Jesus Christ.

We know from the life of David that violence of the suggested slogan was not part of his thought-pattern or what was in his heart. A King who had set out to kill David (who had been anointed by the prophet Samuel as God’s choice to rule the nation of Israel) was King Saul. On one occasion, David had the moment and opportunity to kill King Saul. Instead, to let the King know what he could’ve done, he merely cut off a piece (a tassel) from the hem of Saul’s Royal Robe (which Saul was wearing at the time – See: I Samuel 24:4-11). David felt very convicted for his act as he stated to Saul in I Samuel 24:10, “Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you today into my hand in the cave. And some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, I will not put out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.” The true sentiment of David’s heart and thoughts is expressed in I Samuel 12:23-24, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”

A Supercilious Slogan conveys that the one embracing the slogan views another from a perspective that is “haughtily disdainful or contemptuous…” Perhaps the “failing to Pray For You” is more of the issue that allows for the trends of our time. If one wants to quote from the Holy Bible, such a one should make the Holy Bible the foundation for his/her life. Quite simply – Live It before you Quote From It! Consider these things with me!

When Leadership Languishes

From My Perspective - - -

What should one look for in a strong Leader? What Character Traits should be obvious in a bonafide Leader? Should the Core Values of a Leader-type matter? What are the minimal requirements and foundational principles one should expect to find in one desiring to be a Leader? In general affairs, a catch phrase used has been: “Put up or shut up!” In other defined areas, a phrase that is sometimes used (usually in a Church context): “It’s more Caught than Taught!” In other words, The Leader should Lead By Example!

Some of the Generals of World War II serve as an example of Inspiring Leadership. Two of them were General Douglas MacArthur in Asia, and General Dwight Eisenhower in Europe. General Eisenhower stated in terms of Leadership, it is “the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” In the Manual on Military Leadership, it is recorded: “Good leaders develop through a never-ending process of self-study, education, training, and experience.” It has been said that when General Eisenhower was considering someone for a staff promotion as an officer, that individual was summoned to a private meeting in an office-type setting. General Eisenhower had a piece of string on his desk. He asked the one being considered to use that piece of string to define Leadership. The test was simple and would define the character and potential of the candidate for promotion. If he pushed the string across the desk, it would bunch up – if he pulled the string it would go in the direction in which it was pulled. The point being made was that leaders don’t “drive men” as though they were cattle, but “lead men” as one who knows where he is going and the best way to get there.

In War History legend, Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders gained fame in their charge up San Juan Hill and the ultimate victory in the Spanish-American War. Part of the History and Legend includes: “The most famous of all the units fighting in Cuba, the ‘Rough Riders’ was the name given to the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry under the leadership of Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt resigned his position as Assistant Secretary of the Navy in May 1898 to join the volunteer cavalry…Once Roosevelt joined the group, it quickly became the place for a mix of troops ranging from Ivy League athletes to glee-club singers to Texas Rangers and Indians. Roosevelt and the commander of the unit Colonel Leonard Wood trained and supplied the men so well at their camp in San Antonio, Texas, that the Rough Riders…went to Tampa at the end of May and sailed for Santiago de Cuba on June 13. There they joined the Fifth Corps, another highly trained, well supplied, and enthusiastic group consisting of excellent soldiers from the regular army and volunteers." Troops wanted to be part of an Army with inspired Leadership – men out in front of the troops who not only led the charge but who also knew how to achieve a meaningful victory.

What does it mean When Leadership Languishes? Languish is defined as: “to be or become weak or feeble; lose strength or vigor; to exist or continue in miserable or disheartening conditions; to remain unattended or be neglected; to become downcast or pine away in longing.” In the Bible, The Book of Judges is an example of languishing and failed Leadership. The last words in that Book are: (NKJV) – “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (NIV) - “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” In The Message “At that time there was no king in Israel. People did whatever they felt like doing.” Rhetoric may be inspiring and gain a following – but – it is not Leadership! Braggadocio (empty boasting) may peak the interest of some who will “believe” – but – it is not Leadership! Jesus Christ made a great demand in terms of His Leadership and for those who would choose to Follow Him. It is stated in Luke 9:23-25, “Then He said to them all: If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?” Jesus is saying – Make A Choice – Follow Me! What may look like Loss is the only path to Gain! What appears to be Defeat is the only way to Victory! Are you following a Languishing Leader, or are you following The Victorious Leader – Jesus Christ? Consider these things with me!

The Faux Pas of the Founders

From My Perspective - - -

The Founders of our country must have been having a bad day when the idea for This Republic was conceived. The Framers of the Constitution erred in thinking The US Constitution would be a foundation for a free and prosperous nation. What was wrong with the early founders: George Washington; Alexander Hamilton; Thomas Jefferson; Benjamin Franklin; Thomas Paine and countless other Patriots? Were they delusional? Were they writing this document after sipping some home brew? Did they really believe that a country and society would one day jettison many of the principles for which the Founders were willing to state unequivocally: “We mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor…”? Whatever happened to the originating proposition: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America”?

The Faux Pas (a slip or blunder in etiquette, manners, or conduct; an embarrassing social blunder or indiscretion) did not become apparent until 233 years after the fact. If one wonders what happened, just suppose some of the political leaders of today had been the leaders in 1776 – people like the current President; Nancy Pelosi; Harry Reid; Mitch McConnell; John Boehner; the Federal Court System; Czar Appointees – how would they have framed the Constitution? Would it have included weakening the status and standing of the nation in the world? Would it have included the takeover of Banks and Major Businesses? Would it have championed taking control of one-sixth of the economy so that every legal or illegal resident in the nation could have Health Care provided? Would it contain a favorite status for Labor Unions receiving Government Contracts (rather than the Low Bidder)? Would this nation have survived for 233 years if the present politicians had been involved in preparing a foundational document to “…form a more perfect union…”? Would they have been willing to say: “We mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor…” in order to form a nation that will endure the test of time?

Focus on the Family released the following in 2006: “The American Experiment has the potential to prove unusually conducive to a deeper understanding of God’s design for the state precisely because it is unique in the history of the world. Here on these shores, and here alone, people with a strong Christian worldview have been afforded an unparalleled opportunity to create from scratch what they considered an ideal system of government...The New England Primer, the second best-selling book (after the Bible) of the colonial era, provides an intriguing window into the attitudes of early Americans. In particular, it reveals an outlook and a way of life powerfully shaped by the teachings of Scripture. The pervasiveness of this outlook is further demonstrated in statements made by America’s early political leaders, legal and social architects, and educational pioneers – people like Benjamin Rush, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams, Charles Carroll, Noah Webster, and the founders of Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia Universities. In spite of the fact that not all of them were practicing Christians, these luminaries agreed with President John Adams that the success of America’s republican form of government would prove directly dependent upon the virtue and morality of her people, and that virtue and morality are necessarily founded upon religion – by which all meant the Christian religion…”

We have come a long way from those Founding Principles which seem to be almost forgotten and seldom embraced or championed today! Psalm 33:12 instructs and encourages: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.” Psalm 9:17 [NLT] continues: “The wicked will go down to the grave. This is the fate of all the nations who ignore God.” We have a choice and should have the good sense to return to the Foundation Principles of the Nation – and – of our Faith! Don’t let this become your Faux Pas! Consider these things with me!

Hubris and Absurdity Abound

From My Perspective - - -

Most are knowledgeable of the phrase: “The Games People Play” as it references indifferent or irrational behavior. Some of this can be observed in the unfolding drama of human life as it is played out on TV programs, such as, the various Courts ranging from Judge Judy, to The People’s Court, and numerous others. The impractical choices made by people and their illogical reasons for doing so demonstrate all too graphically how Hubris and Absurdity Abound.

This can also be seen in Sporting events. A Headline in today’s Boston Globe states: “Belichick Gaffe Unrivaled” is based upon an Absurdity – “often known as – “Snatching Defeat Out Of The Jaws Of Victory”! The story states: “The Patriots lost to the undefeated Colts in unbelievable fashion last night. Leading, 31-14 in the fourth quarter, and 34-21 with 2:30 remaining, the Patriots took the choke and lost to their hated rivals, 35-34…And Coach Belichick gets the blame. Too smart for his own good this time. The sin of hubris. Here’s the situation: With the Patriots leading, 34-28, and 2:08 remaining, the Coach…elected to go for a first down rather than punt when he faced fourth and 2 from his 28-yard line…Tom Brady’s fourth-down pass…was complete but inches shy of the first down. So the Colts took over and went 29 yards in four easy plays, winning the game when Manning connected with…a laser-like 1-yard pass…Unfortunately for New England fans, Coach Belichick elected to play soft defense and Manning quickly had the Colts in the end zone. It was 34-28 with 2:23 left. Then came the tragic set of downs and Coach Belichick’s bold and crushing gamble…” Ah, Yes - “Defeat Snatched Out Of The Jaws of Victory!”

The News on most Cable Networks discussed President Obama bowing before The Emperor of Japan. The subtle Absurdity here is the portrayal by some Media of President Obama being “the messiah” for the nation and world seen bowing before “the emperor” which literally means “heavenly emperor” or a god for the people of Japan. The Emperor is the highest authority of the Shinto religion. This anomaly and compromise occurred during the Instruments (Documents) of Surrender for Japan that ended World War II. General Douglas MacArthur wanted a full democracy for Japan but allowed the retention of a figurehead Emperor for the defeated nation – the figurehead before whom the US President bowed.

Another Absurdity that will soon impact our nation appears in an Associated Press report yesterday: “As usual, the most dangerous parts of Obama-Care aren't receiving the scrutiny they deserve—and one of the least examined is a new commission to tell Congress how to control health spending. Democrats are quietly attempting to impose a global budget on Medicare, with radical implications for U.S. medicine. Like most of Europe, the various health bills stipulate that Congress will arbitrarily decide how much to spend on health care for seniors every year—and then invest an unelected board with extraordinary powers to dictate what is covered and how it will be paid for. White House budget director Peter Orszag calls this Medicare commission ‘critical to our fiscal future’ and ‘one of the most potent reforms.’ As envisioned by the Senate Finance Committee, the commission—all 15 members appointed by the President—would have to meet certain budget targets each year. Starting in 2015, Medicare could not grow more rapidly on a per capita basis than by a measure of inflation. After 2019, it could only grow at the same rate as GDP, plus one percentage point.” Regrettably, this Absurdity is headed toward becoming a Reality!

The Sport’s Absurdity mentions: “The Sin of Hubris (overbearing pride or presumption; arrogance).” The Wisdom Writer shares these truths with us: Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” In Proverbs 18:12 – “Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.” Destruction and A Fall can and should be avoided – but – The Sin of Hubris will always allow for prideful error and Absurdity to Abound. One would think that “a word to the wise is sufficient” would have some impact in life – but – does it? You can be a life and voice that lives it and demonstrates it! Consider these things with me!

Political Perpetuity

From My Perspective - - -

Is human behavior predictable? Is there validity to the phrase: “As now – so then!”? Is there a pattern that one follows based upon moral principles inculcated (to teach another by frequent instruction or repetition; indoctrinate) in the home, personal philosophy, educational choices, and political bias and orientation? Can it be said that Political Perpetuity is a reality and serves as a barometer in terms of a politician’s decision-making process? Perpetuity means: “The quality or condition of being perpetual…Time without end; eternity.” With that being true, would it not be wise to fasten one’s seat-belt for a long and arduous journey – one that will be “demanding great effort or labor; difficult…testing severely the powers of endurance; strenuous”?

Currently, the President of the United States has rejected all options offered him regarding the War in Afghanistan. If there have been random recommendations without complete detail of both objective and duration, that would demonstrate wisdom. If the rejection is based upon political considerations and perpetuity, that would be lacking in wisdom. A question is: Is there any barometer one can view that gives an indication of the direction in this decision-making process? Is it fair and adequate to look at one’s past political career to gain some insight to what’s ahead?

One insight we gain is, Barack Obama began his political career as an Illinois state senator, where he served from 1997 to 2004. He spoke out against the U.S. invasion of Iraq. This was backed up by the publication on his official candidate's site of his speech at an anti-war rally in October 2002. Rather than fighting Iraq, he said: "Let's finish the fight with Bin Laden and Al Qaeda, through effective, coordinated intelligence, and a shutting down of the financial networks that support terrorism, and a homeland security program that involves more than color-coded warnings." Another insight is that as a senator in the Illinois legislature, he had a third option beyond "Yes" or "No" - namely - "Present." This option allows a legislator to remain neutral on an issue at vote, side-stepping a stance. He was criticized by his campaign rival Senator Hillary Clinton's campaign for the 129 "Present" votes he made from 1997 to 2004 [source: National Public Radio]. In 1999, he voted present on a bill that allowed juvenile offenders who committed certain crimes to be tried as adults. The results of this vote and others, including votes on abortion, allowed Clinton's campaign to portray Mr. Obama as a talker rather than a doer [source: The New York Times]. In the US Senate in 2007, he voted along Democratic Party lines 97 percent of the time - 10 percent more than the average for all Democratic senators [source: The Hill]. Of the leading Democrat candidates, he missed the most votes during the 109th Congress - 282 of the 630 total votes from Dec. 8, 2007, to July 28, 2008, or 44.8 percent. Is he still just a "talker rather than a doer" of what is wise and right?

As President, he has the difficult decision of whether or not to send more than 40,000 troops into harms way! What will he ultimately decide? Is Political Perpetuity at play here? Is he delaying his decision to preserve a fragile vote differential for the Health Care Reform legislation? There is an intriguing passage in the Bible that has all kinds of ramifications - Job 40:1-5 (NLT), “Then the LORD said to Job, Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God's critic, but do you have the answers? Then Job replied to the LORD, I am nothing – how could I ever find the answers? I will put my hand over my mouth in silence. I have said too much already. I have nothing more to say." The words of Verse 2 in The Message: “…Job Answers God: I'm Ready to Shut Up and Listen…” Whether or not the politician of today will admit it, there is a bigger picture and a better plan. However – it includes The Sovereign God of Whom it is said - Isaiah 42:5-8 (NLT), “God, the LORD, created the heavens…He created the earth and everything in it. He gives breath and life to everyone in all the world…it is He who says: I, the LORD, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness…and you will be a light to guide all nations to me…I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not give my glory to anyone else…” The plans of our politicians need to be fitting into God’s plans for our nation. If we do it – we’ll succeed; if we don’t – failure will be a certainty and our destiny! May our leaders have the good sense to make the wise and correct choices! Consider these things with me!

Class Warfare and Political Correctness

From My Perspective - - -

Of late, there have been negatives stated by the current administration pertaining to Health Insurance Providers and Companies; Doctors and their Fees; Obese People; Redistribute the Wealth of Rich People; Increase Taxes on the Wealthy; “Don’t Rush to Judgment on the Fort Hood Massacre (don’t call it an act of Terror); Continue to Demonize George W. Bush (Blame him for all the Increased Indebtedness); Take All The Credit but Never Accept Any of the Blame; etc. In regard to Fort Hood, Dick Morris has written: "It was his failure to understand the difference between an act of war and a crime that undermined President Clinton’s administration’s anti-terror efforts and led directly to 9-11 - It would appear that President Obama is going down the same road of denial and minimization of political harm. There may be casualties at Ft. Hood, but Obama is determined that his popularity will not be among them."

Speaking about “Class Warfare” – do you know how many Millionaires there are in Congress? The Center for Responsive Politics reports there are 237 Millionaires and Multi-Millionaires or 44% of the Congress. They keep reminding us that they represent the American People. Well then, how many Millionaires are there among the American People? There is an obvious disconnect – only 1% of the entire US Population is in the Millionaire “class”! The Center for Responsive Politics also reports on the Executive Branch – “Among executive branch officials, richest is Securities and Exchange Commission Chairwoman Mary L. Schapiro, with a net worth estimated at $26 million. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is next, worth an estimated $21 million. President Barack Obama is the sixth-wealthiest, with an estimated $4 million.”

When Paul shares with Timothy some of the basics about practical ministry, he indicates two valuable and viable truisms and principles: I Timothy 6:9-10, “People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with considerable grief." The issue is for one not to become preoccupied with money and investments but to maintain a Financial Equilibrium. Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19-24, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also…No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.”

The second truism and principle shared by Paul is I Timothy 6:17-19, "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." The use of wealth is based on an individual’s value system and a level of compassion for needs and the needy. It should never be by a Government Mandate (redistribution of wealth concept).
Wisdom Literature shares these basic thoughts:
Proverbs 14:31 "He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God."
Proverbs 22:9 "A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor."
Proverbs 28:6 "Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a rich man whose ways are perverse."
Proverbs 28:20 "A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished."
Proverbs 22:22-23 "Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them."
Do as much good as you can for as many as you can for as long as you can! Consider these things with me!

Limitations Of Loftiness

From My Perspective - - -

Leadership and Loftiness – are they compatible? Leaders inspire by example as well as spoken word! Lofty rhetoric can be nice to hear – but – is it always appropriate? A Lofty Manner is interesting to observe – but – is it always the order of the day? Does “Dignity” suffer if “Loftiness” is not always in the forefront? Is a Leader ever permitted to show genuine emotion without it being construed as “unmanly” or inappropriate? How should a Leader respond to a crisis (or crises)? Definitions for Loftiness in The American Heritage Dictionary include: “Elevated in character; exalted; pompous; arrogant; haughty.” A good Leader must display other characteristics and emotions in addition to constant loftiness! He should be angered by atrocities; engaged in a timely way with catastrophes; consoling immediately when carnage occurs; sensitive toward those who are suffering and sorrowing… The writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us (3:1-8): “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance…a time to be silent and a time to speak…a time for war and a time for peace.”

Commentators and Bloggers are having a “field day” because of the manner in which the President of the US responded to the events that had unfolded at Fort Hood. Two of the comments are: (1) On November 5, Ben Johnson wrote on David Horowitz' Newsreal website that Obama's "shout out" "says it all: Our Commander-In-Chief feels there is no event so serious that it cannot be prefaced by a moment of glib hipness, no solemn loss so sacred he will deny himself a moment of wry self-indulgence. Soldiers were killed? Let's say "hi" to Joe first. An entire theater of war needs a plan to defeat the terrorists who struck America on 9/11? No reason I can't go golfing, shoot some hoops, and hit the town with Michelle. We desperately need an adult in the White House. Sadly, today's press conference proves we do not have one." And (2) Linda Chavez wrote in a November 5 Blog Post for Commentary Magazine that "President Obama's rushed press conference was surprising in its flippancy nonetheless. Before he got to the issue on everyone's mind - namely the deaths of Americans in uniform - the president gave a 'shout-out' to government bureaucrats gathered for a previously scheduled conference at the Interior Department, complete with appreciative chuckles. He treated the event like a pep rally rather than a tragic occasion with a wider audience than those gathered in the room…”

The President should be given some “slack” and the benefit of the doubt. However, it would be nice to see a “human side” to the President – some indignation at this outrage; a tear in the eye over a tragedy that has taken a life of a soldier, a spouse and/or parent; an emotional crack in the voice as comments are made and condolences shared; an awareness that soldiers (warriors) returning from battle zones are killed by a fellow-soldier in a debriefing clinic. Come On, Mr. President – be real, be human, be caring! Come On, Mr. President – we’ve heard your rhetoric! Give it a rest! Just once – Get rid of your robotic facade! Bury your Teleprompter and speak from your heart!

Wednesday marks a special day! It was at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month that an Armistice was signed ending all hostilities in World War I. We now call November 11th Veterans Day to honor those who have died while representing our nation in the military. It’s good of you – Mr. President – to delay a trip to Asia so you can be at the Memorial Service in Fort Hood. Just a word of counsel, Mr. President – don’t speak! Just be there to give a hug; to shed a tear; to show you really care! This should NOT be a “news” event! This is NOT about YOU, Mr. President - It should be a time for the grieving families and hurting individuals! It also needs to be remembered -
*** It's the Military, not the reporter who has given us the Freedom of the Press.
*** It's the Military, not the poet, who has given us the Freedom of Speech.
*** It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures our Right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
*** It's the Military who salutes The Flag, who serves beneath The Flag, and whose coffin is draped by The Flag.
We remain One Nation, under God – because of our brave military! Consider these things with me!

Dispassionate Disconnect

From My Perspective - - -

Being ignored, mistreated, disregarded, seen as inconsequential, or treated in a non-sequitur manner – leaves one on the edge of frustration, despair, hopelessness, and utter disenfranchisement. This sense and experience can happen when the AARP sends out a letter stating: “Over the last several months, AARP has fought hard for crucial components of health reform that will improve the health and lives of our members and their families. The House of Representatives will vote on a final bill this week that includes key priorities for older Americans. That's why we've chosen to support the legislation about to be voted on by the House – AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE FOR AMERICA ACT. We believe it protects and strengthens Medicare, and ensures that your care will never take a back seat to insurance companies' profits.” Someone indignantly responded to the AARP with the following words: “You DID NOT take a stand for me - you have misrepresented the Senior Citizens of this nation! How dare YOU SAY that YOU represented me - YOU have not listened to the Senior Citizens and do not care what they think!” News Releases indicate that AARP and the American Medical Association are both endorsing the Health Care For America Act.

The Dispassionate Disconnect occurs when the 53% who pay taxes do not get a receptive audience, whereas the 43% who pay No Federal Tax become the reference darlings of the Redistribution of Wealth Elected Officials presently in Congress. There are many who have paid Federal Taxes all of their adult lives who now observe a nation recklessly increasing spending to a level that will produce a National Debt that will be impossible to pay down or reduce. The United States Department of the Treasury has an informative Web Site on The History of Taxation. One of the many interesting paragraphs indicates: “By 1913, 36 States had ratified the 16th Amendment to the Constitution. In October, Congress passed a new Income Tax law with rates beginning at 1 percent and rising to 7 percent for taxpayers with income in excess of $500,000. Less than 1 percent of the population paid income tax at the time. Form 1040 was introduced as the standard tax reporting form and, though changed in many ways over the years, remains in use today.” The Tax Policy Center (a joint venture of the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution) writes about the overall disparity in current Tax Law: “…between 43% and 49% of the American population pays no income tax and a substantial number actually receive negative income tax federal payouts…In 2009 approximately 47% of single filers, 38% of joint filers, and 72% of heads of households will pay no federal income taxes.”

Some years ago, a clever saying was made into Jewelry (WWJD). The saying asked about life’s situations and contacts: “What Would Jesus Do?” We know what Jesus would do – and what he wants us to do - in terms of the needy. MATTHEW 6:1-4 (NIV) – “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do…to be honored by men…when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret…” This same passage from The Message: “Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but God…won't be applauding. When you do something for someone else, don't call attention to yourself. You've seen them in action – playactors…acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause…but that's all they get. When you help someone out, don't think about how it looks. Just do it - quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out.”

Words must be accompanied with Actions! In JAMES 2:15-16, the question is asked: “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and filled, without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?” While our Government is caught up in its rhetoric and showing Dispassionate Disconnect, you can and should – as best you can - fill the vacuum and void with Compassionate Connection. Have wisdom and discernment as you distinguish between Need and Greed. Don’t be biased or profile others! Run the Risk of helping those with needs! Consider these things with me!

Insufficiency Of Superfluity

From My Perspective - - -

When is enough – enough? For those who want to receive something for nothing, are they ever satisfied? If a special “Midnight Madness Sale” is being held at a Business, what is the decorum and behavior of those wanting to be “first” so they can grab the “most” (whether or not they actually need it)? If there is an actual error in pricing, do most people point that out to the merchant or take advantage of it? There was this incident in Columbus, Ohio on October 12th, 2009 headlined: “Clothing Store Trashed After Woman’s Winning Lottery Claim.” The report states: “Hundreds of people were left disappointed Tuesday after a woman who claimed she won the lottery promised to return to a clothing store and spend her winnings on all the customers. The woman said she won $500,000 and wanted to buy clothes for customers at the east side Burlington Coat Factory…The offer was extended to every shopper at the East Main Street store and not just for clothes…a shopper said: "I just need assistance with my rent and she said, How much is it? and she promptly wrote out a check….The woman asked customers to tell their friends and family about her offer and said she would stay until the store closed…The woman then announced to the store that she was returning to the bank to secure more cash but by 3 p.m., police announced that the shopping spree was over and turned the crowds away…When shoppers learned the merchandise would not be paid for, some customers trashed the store…”

Certain obvious truths stand out as and when this incident occurred: (1) Some people were in the store looking for a particular item of clothing and were just shopping; (2) Some people were there wondering how they could afford what they genuinely needed – some with restricted finances, and personal needs; (3) Some people appeared and responded out of a greed motive – something for nothing and “I want in on the action whether or not I have any need for any of the stuff” (these may be the same ones who trashed or looted the store when they discovered the giveaway was a hoax). The store had nothing to do with the hoax, yet they suffered the loss and consequence of this event. One has to feel especially sorry for those with financial needs who would have benefited IF this offer had been bonafide. Its no wonder why a growing number feel so downtrodden and neglected. Sadly, the government expands its control and power as they project “caring” whereas most care only about the next election and as many votes as they can garner. Giveaway programs by the Government are similar to the woman’s hoax in the Columbus, Ohio store – all promise but little – if any – benefit for those have the least and who need the most - hoping for something – anything - to alleviate serious need!

A secular society can be focused upon and absorbed by the Insufficiency Of Superfluity (Superfluity = a superabundant or excessive amount, luxury) – always wanting more whether it is needed or deserved.
The nation would do well to remember and apply – I Timothy 6:6-10 (The New Living Translation): Yet true religion with contentment is great wealth…we didn't bring anything with us when we came into the world, and we certainly cannot carry anything with us when we die…if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. But people who long to be rich (and have all kinds of stuff) fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money (and stuff) is at the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money (and other stuff), have wandered from the faith…”
Similar words in Hebrews 13:5-6, “Keep your lives free from the love of money (and things, and stuff) and be content with what you have, because God has said: Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you! So we say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid!”

There needs to be genuine caring for the genuinely poor and needy (not the greedy)! There needs to be a sharing from what one has with those who would be benefited because they have little or nothing. Caring is more than just Giving – it is Compassion for those who are least among us and who desperately need someone to show them love and concern. Can YOU be that someone? Are YOU…? Consider these things with me!