The Scent of Love

“When I'm working on a problem, I never think about beauty. I think only how to solve the problem. But when I have finished, if the solution is not beautiful, I know it is wrong.” 

-- R. Buckminster Fuller, architect, designer, inventor (1895-1983)

A short moment of rambling thought.

I'm a fairly private person.  I don't let many people into my world, not anymore.  I have many friends, few of which are close, and fewer are those I allow inside.  My world is orderly, to a point.  My shirts hang in one direction with the second button from the top buttoned, my underwear is tri-folded and neatly stacked, and I really prefer to iron my own shirts so they are just right.  There is generally a place for everything, and I like everything in its place.  I accept authority because it is my desire to do so, not because the authority thinks I care.  For forty years of my life, I have worked at what I wanted, and I've taken grief as a consequence of doing what I choose with full knowledge that, at a moment's notice, I could bend over, slap my lily-white derriere and say, "Kiss it!  I'm so outta here!"

And then there is my work area.

“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.” 

-- St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)

My work area is usually a disaster.  I like it that way.  It keeps me creative.  It helps me think.  Computers?  I want a paper file; something with texture and the smell of paper; something I can hold in my hand, fold and scribble on.  I like a file folder I can tear apart and spread out.  I like a large chalkboard that I can brainstorm on and whiteboards that I can see from the doorway and tell what projects and appointments are in the offing.  Most of all I like the smell of things.

I love the scent of sawdust and gear grease.  I love the smell of a tree as I'm trimming or cutting it down and the scent of the toolbox as I open it for the tools to adjust the chain on the chainsaw or the sparkplug in the mower.  Most of all, I love to stand in the middle of my messy woodworking area, surrounded by tools and scraps of this and that and the scent of everything combined; it is my muse, my source for inspiration and creativity.  And, of course, I love the scent of good food and the spices to flavor it.  I'm Siciliano, why would this surprise.

As far back as we can trace most of the men on my father's side; they came to this country with a carpenter's toolbox, for the most part, though a few were barbers.  And, being Sicilian, we have always had a great love of food, both eating, and cooking, and the men in my family can cook.  There is nothing more sensual than the smell of a great meal.  Given a choice between pasta and meatballs with a glass of red wine, or a night on the town with a woman, hand me a cloth napkin and a fork, if she wants me that bad, she'll wait.  If she thinks I'm selfish, she really needs to pull up a chair and dig in.

"Women! What can you say? Who made 'em? God must have been a [freakin'] genius. The hair... They say the hair is everything, you know. Have you ever buried your nose in a mountain of curls... just wanted to go to sleep forever? Or lips... and when they touched yours, were like... that first swallow of wine... after you just crossed the desert."

-- Lt. Col. Frank Slade, "Scent of a Woman" (1992)

In a great way, I hope she waits.  It may sound a tad kinky, but there is something about the scent of a woman, especially her hair after it's just been shampooed.  A trained nose can usually detect the faint scent of soap as a woman passes, especially if she walks through her perfume mist instead of splashing it on like some novice dude wearing High Karate aftershave as though it wouldn't empty a crowded elevator in Macy's like someone just set off tear gas during an army training exercise.  

No, there is much to be said for the subtle scent of a woman.  And, for the woman, the subtle scent of a man. 

“A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul.” 

-- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, German poet, novelist, statesman

I think Goethe almost had it.  I think everyone should make a little music, write a little poetry, and create a fine picture every day of their life, even if it's just for them.  Although, how selfish would that be?

But all of this is art.  Whether you take pride in your painting, yardwork, woodwork, engine work, cooking, or yourself, it is all a form of art, and all of it has a scent.  For most of us that realize this, it is the scent of love.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the blind must see with the heart.  As for men and women, we are like a hearty meal, and it is up to us what ingredients we use.  We can opt for spicy or bland, sweet or bitter, fragrant or subtle, with an explosion of flavor or just a slight kiss.  Does it really matter what the meal looks like?  Close your eyes and just enjoy the fragrance.  You might wake up in a mountain of curls, and realize what God has truly implanted in your soul.

Editor's Note 

(disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful constructive discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is the founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

My Sunday Thought: Gay Christian, Gay Marriage - Part 2

When I wrote my latest post, My Sunday Thought for June 28, 2015: Gay Christian, Gay Marriage, I knew I was, once again, stepping into controversy rife with strong emotion.  When I posted it on the monastery's minister site, however, I had no idea it would cause the outpouring of comments it has, or the tension amongst the membership.  What surprised me more than the number of comments, though, has been the intolerance shown, not only to the subject, but also to each other and their opinions on it.

This topic also hit closer to home for me.  When family comments with a full paragraph vice the historic single sentence, you know you've struck a chord.  After publishing the post to Facebook, Annie and Sue had these comments:

"The question I haven't been able to find anyone answering is, why does it matter to YOU? My more religious friends post articles by other religious people talking about what the bible says and how they should act in regards to the new law, but not one person has explained how it will actually affect their lives. I understand all religions want the rest of the world to know God and follow their holy book so that we can all get into heaven, but isn't He the only one that is supposed to judge? 

I loved the last paragraph, about getting our own homes right before judging others. I'm not gay and have never questioned that, but I don't see why a person loving another person should matter to me. I know a gay woman who is married to another gay woman and you know what? Their marriage hasn't ruined my life or made my marriage any less meaningful, in the same way a straight woman married to a straight man has never ruined my life. 

Maybe they're wrong to some people; maybe they're right to others, but being able to read about gay couples who have been together for 50+ years finally able to get married makes my heart so happy for them and for the meaning of LOVE."

-- Annie

"I have been battling with my beliefs on this issue, feeling guilty at times for believing they should have the same rights as straight people. After all wasn't Jesus all about love and not hating anyone. I have very close friends who are gay or lesbian. While I have no desire to be gay, I respect their stand (but what about the Bible?) I just clicked on the Gay Christian Link you posted and spent the last hour watching Pastor Danny Cortez address his congregation on the subject. It's a wonderful explanation from a pastor's point of view. The end was very emotional."

-- Sue

For those folks interested in listening to Pastor Danny Cortez, please follow this link, Pastor Danny Cortez - Address, or Google Pastor Danny Cortez and learn more about his personal struggle with the church and his beliefs.

Annie and Sue address a few good points to ponder.  "My more religious friends post articles by other religious people talking about what the bible says and how they should act in regards to the new law, but not one person has explained how it will actually affect their lives."  Well, Annie's "more religious friends" probably can't explain how it will actually affect their lives because, and this is just an assumption, they can't even post their own feelings as they find need to post other's articles, and they're allowing themselves to be told how to act in regards to the new law.  Please do not drink the poisoned Kool Aid when they pass the tray, you will find God faster just thinking for yourselves and forming your own heartfelt opinions.  And I also think any couple, regardless of gender, that has been together for fifty-plus years has earned the right to tie the knot.  The number of hetero couples currently married will find themselves hard pressed to top that in today's societal norm of "love and leave" relationships.

Many of us are finding we are "feeling guilty at times for believing they should have the same rights as straight people."  Many folks of faith have been programmed throughout life to live by certain moral standards.  The problem with any standard is that change is the only constant in the universe.  Standards, like most everything else, are subject to change.  But let's take this part of Sue's statement and look at the obvious reason for the guilt, "...believing they should have the same rights..."  What seems to have not changed is our lack of tolerance.  

I'm reminded of Germany in the late 1930s:  Should the Jews be allowed to live in the ghettos of Poland?  Why should they be allowed to live at all?  What we need is a final solution to the Jewish problem.  Fast forward to current extreme attitudes like, the only good gay is a dead gay; Homosexuals are an affront to God; Gays are damned to hell for eternity; What we need is a final solution to the gay problem.  Some opinions, especially those selfish ones that seek to harm others or make ourselves seem superior, are just evil and never easy to tolerate or accept.  

Is it any wonder we feel guilt when our tolerance is in question?  Sue makes another good point for me, "I respect their stand."  The good thing about tolerance is that it doesn't demand acceptance.  Whatever the reason for people being gay, like an opinion or a choice, it is theirs.  Just because someone has a different opinion doesn't mean you have to accept it, but be tolerant of the fact it is their opinion and hope they respect your opinion as much.  

Sue also took the time to do some research and get an alternate viewpoint which may, for some, mitigate any feeling of guilt.  As with religious and spiritual faith, research is a way to find your inner truth, and this truth, as well all know, will set you free.  More importantly, this freedom may set you on your path to a higher glory. 

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

My Sunday Thought for June 28, 2015: Gay Christian, Gay Marriage

So, the Supreme Court (SCOTUS) has overreached their authority and paved the way for gay marriage throughout the United States. It will be interesting to see how the individual states, and their religious majorities, react to being told what they can do and not do when it comes to their sense of morality. It would seem, by my comment here, I am against these unions. To the contrary, I am not. I have written much on the subject of homosexual tolerance, or lack thereof. I have attached links to a few of these posts:

Gay Marriage Equality 

The Gay Christian 

LGB, LGBT, LGBTQ, LGBTQQ... and Confused 

Church Law or God's Love? 

Homosexuality: Is It a Choice?

The SCOTUS no sooner handed down this ruling when my inbox was hit with a few emails asking for my humble opinion.  For the most part the questions were a mix of two themes, gay marriage and gay Christianity.  For me, I have no problem with gay marriage.  I believe that a loving, giving, relationship is hard to come by these days, so wherever we can find it, so be it.  One of my friends sent this comment: 

So, is this where tolerance comes in? Is this what we've preached about all along? Acceptance? Tolerance? Okay, I'm buying it....however....you know I have questions. Like, what if deep down I am a conservative Christian who believes that marriage was to be between man and woman so they could reproduce and populate the earth with more believers and followers of Christ? I know, I know...LOVE IS LOVE. No matter what, love is patient.

And this is where all the controversy arises, with the "conservative Christian."  We must remember that man wrote scripture, scripture put together by a council of other men, and interpreted, for the most part, by men.  The minute you step back and question the validity of scripture to reflect the true desire of God and not just the agenda of men, you must also bring into question the validity of certain moral interpretations.  With so many accepting, loving, forgiving, Christians passing judgment on the gay community as a whole, it brings into question their own Christian values.  Once your own values are brought into question, your sense of morality is also suspect.

Is homosexuality an affront to God?  God is omnipotent.  God doesn't make mistakes.  God has a plan for all of us.  Why are we judging the servants of our own Master?  Where do we get off presuming we can speak for the Almighty?  We will all be judged for what we do by our Master, and it is for our own Mater to determine if we stand or fall.  As for the question of gay Christianity, I point my readers to several websites for more information.  I think the first link does a fine job of explaining misinterpretations in scripture:

God and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships 

Gay Christian Network 

Gay Christian 101 

Being Gay Being Christian

We all want to have an opinion on this subject, and opinions are a good thing as long as they're constructive.  Unfortunately, we are only human, and we fail miserably when it comes to doing our own homework so we can form our own informed, intelligent, opinions.  We tend to operate on the agendas spewed forth by people we have faith are operating with our own best interest in mind.  We are but lemmings rushing to the cliff.  The question you should be asking is whether you'll drink the cyanide laced Kool Aid when the pastor presents it.

Many seem to feel a "civil union" should suffice for the gay community, and, in truth, a civil union has been better for many, even straight couples, when it comes to the laws of the land.  Marriage muddies the legal water.  And there is the point that marriage is not holy matrimony, and this would be correct.  Marriage is something done as a legal vehicle to join two people.  Holy matrimony is a promise made before God, family, and other witnesses, to do right by each other for as long as you both shall live.  How many Christians can you think of around you that have lied to God about this?  The divorce rate is staggering.  It will be interesting to see how gays stack up, and maybe this is what frightens us.  What if they can do it better; better parents of their adopted children, better relationships and lower divorce rate, and so on?  We judge the gay community for wanting to be Christian, wanting holy matrimony, wanting what we all want - to love and be loved.  Personally, I can see why they're so confused about straight attitudes, considering our own less than laudable sense of morality.

This isn't Sodom and Gomorrah or Rome.  There is more real crime in the streets than consenting sodomy and debauchery, except for maybe the French Quarter on a Saturday night.  We concern ourselves about gays kissing on television, yet we find a hot, sweating, softcore porn scene acceptable viewing in prime time.

Perhaps, before we pass judgment, those that pound the bible should reflect on what our scripture says about judging others.  Before we turn the lost away, perhaps we should ask them if they feel lost, and then see what the bible says about feeling in your heart that you are right.  The again, maybe we would be better served to have faith in God not making mistakes so we righteous hypocrites have to presume to feel obligated to clean up the mess.  If God made a mess, I'm sure God has all good intent to clean it up.  Maybe if we paid more attention to getting our own house in order we would find little time to presume to pass judgment on the house of another.

Of course, this is just my opinion.  I could be wrong.

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

Misguided Faith?

Many truths of Scripture are being distorted by a philosophy that places experience and emotions above the inerrant Word of God. That philosophy is called mysticism. 

Because mystics rely on subjective, private, spiritual experiences for guidance and wisdom, they diminish the authority of Scripture. Vision and spiritual encounters become more important than the truths found in God's Word.

-- Arthur L. Johnson, "Faith Misguided: Exposing the Dangers of Mysticism" (1988)

Consider this line from the quote, above: Because mystics rely on subjective, private, spiritual experiences for guidance and wisdom, they diminish the authority of Scripture.  Mystics?  Scripture seems to be rife with examples of miracles, visions, and spiritual encounters, and yet many continue to rely on these "mystic" clergy for guidance.  Why not?  We have been spoon fed stories of the burning bush, angelic visitations, healing the sick, and wine from water, walking on water, and the never-ending baskets of fish and loaves, for centuries.   It would seem I am questioning the validity of Mr. Johnson's statement.  

On the contrary, I feel it holds much truth.  Unfortunately, I also think it also applies to our own Scripture and those religious leaders who have perverted it for their control of the faithful.  But, there's nothing new in that, is there?  We are, after all, just innocent lambs being led to the slaughter, right?  We certainly can't think for ourselves any more than we can worship God without an intermediary.  I can't wait for everyone shows up at the pearly gates and have Saint Peter tell us all to go back and try it again, and this time think for ourselves.  Is thinking for ourselves really so time consuming and confusing, when it comes to our faith, that we must have a weekly meeting just to stay on track?  How sad is that?

When did faith become so misguided?  Well, for the majority of us, when bigotry is all you've known, you grow to be a bigot.  When socialism is all you've known, you grow to be a socialist.  When a cult, religious sect, or spiritual lifestyle is all you've known, chances are you will grow to embrace it.  We do this because we grow up having faith that what we are being told is the truth.  But, heaven forbid, what if it's not the truth?  What if those we rely on for guidance are just as misguided as we are?  What if they've been drinking the poisoned Kool Aid as well?   

Faith is merely trusting in whatever you "believe" to be true... even if you believe a lie.  Some lies are obvious and some are quite convincing.  The Bible tells us that the god of this world, Satan the Devil, "DECEIVES THE WHOLE WORLD!"  Deception is "the practice of misleading; deliberately causing someone to believe something that isn't true."

-- Anonymous

I'm not sure who wrote this quote, there was no name on it so I call them "Anonymous."  Let us take a quick recap of biblical history the Pastor Tony way (seat of the pants theology):

Lots of Old Testament conversations with angels, burning bushes, floods, turning to salt for looking when you were told not to, walls falling to the tune of trumpets, etc, etc. 

The Christ comes online with an immaculate conception.  Enter some healing the sick, yadda, yadda, yadda. 

We are to believe Christ knew there was a traitor, knew he would be denied three times, and knew he would have to die in order to salvage the mess that was mankind. 

He is crucified on the mount, storm clouds, rising from the dead, and was later talking to the faithful before ascension to heaven. 

For the next two thousand years we are blessed with more subjective, private, spiritual experiences for guidance and wisdom.  For the next two thousand years have we enjoyed the fruits of His sacrifice?  How were we supposed to when we were left with the very man that denied him three times to be our first pope?  

It seems everything that has transpired since His sacrifice evidences more that "the god of this world, Satan the Devil, "DECEIVES THE WHOLE WORLD!"  Deception is "the practice of misleading; deliberately causing someone to believe something that isn't true."  And haven't our churches done a marvelous job of that? You know, the churches we were never told to build, because we were all supposed to minister the Word? The praying we were supposed to do in private, for God alone to witness? How many people died during the Inquisition, do you know? And how about all those sacrificed in the Crusades on the word of a pope that couldn't bear the thought of losing, and a Christendom seemingly steeped more in politics, money, and ego, than in faith? Our lack of religious tolerance as a species has been costly, all for some egomaniacs desire for us to prove faith.

We were asked to do one simple thing, put our faith in the God of heaven, the creator of everything.  We were not told to have faith in scripture, but in God's word.  Not in our interpretation, but to do nothing more than we were told; not to interpret anymore into it than was intended.  We were not supposed to listen to anyone else except Him.  Evil is placed among us for reason.  Evil is the test we must pass.  The deception that surrounds our every waking moment is the clutter we must ignore.  The test is not hard to pass.  It was never intended to be, nor was faith.

Stop listening to the clutter.  Stop trying to make sense of all the background noise.  Tune everything else out and listen only to your heart.  Don't interpret what you already know to be truth.  Pay attention only to that which was said by God and the Christ.  Try to simply look at the forest and see the damned trees!

Jesus turned to Peter and said, "Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God's."

-- Matthew 16:23

A bishop is generally entrusted with a position of authority and oversight.  Who entrusted him?  God?  I didn't get that memo.  Apostles were the supreme power, delegating to the bishops.  I thought the "supreme power" was God?  I suppose this was why most of their attention was given to the more educated and respected converts.  Hell, even now we know you can't save the poor from themselves, right?

A minister is authorized by their church to teach beliefs.  Beliefs?  Not truths?  Well, it makes sense that you wouldn't trust, as the Latin defines minister, a servant or attendant, with the truth.

So where does that leave the lowly pastor?  Pastor is derived from the Latin for "shepherd."  It is the pastor's calling to tend the flock and gently guide them to green pastures.  Who of all these assigned to "lead" us is truly worthy?

"Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and understanding."

-- Jeremiah 3:15

"I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and understanding", not absolve you of sin so you can go sin again, and not do the job of getting you into heaven which was clearly laid at your feet. Feed you on the knowledge and understanding which will assist you on your own path to enlightenment, and your own personal relationship with God.

So, is your faith misguided? Only you can answer that question, but try to remember, God knows what truth is in your heart. Is it your truth or the minister's each Sunday? Is it yours, or the priest's passing the basket for this weeks "tithing? (Don't forget to give till it hurts. Are you feeding the poor, or putting a new roof on the church God never asked for? You might check on that.)

Faith isn't that hard, it was never intended to be.  Open your heart and let God inside.

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

My Sunday Thought for Father's Day: 2015

I gave careful consideration to writing another post on Father's Day, but after rereading the post from last year,  Father's Day: Time to "Man UP" - Revisited, I opted not to.  For the time being, anyway, this post covers my thoughts on the subject as a whole.

Having said this, I thought of the young man that just shot up the church in Charleston and killed nine people.  I remembered my mother wondering how his parents must feel; what they must be thinking about the parenting job they did.  Every time I hear of another young person committing treason against this country by supporting, or fighting for, radical Islam, I wonder what their parents must think.  What do you say to everyone around you, and is it necessary to say anything?

Is a child born to be bad or good?  It would seem that no matter how hard you try as a parent, inevitably the choice to destroy your life, and the lives of your parents and others, rests solely on the individual.  In today's world, many parents fail for lack of trying, yet many children succeed in spite of them.  On the other hand, many parents try their damnedest to get parenting right just to see the child fail at every turn.  I would be the first to point an accusing finger toward a lackluster parent, but sometimes the parent suffers more for the failure of their child than anyone.

Good parents love their children.  Good parents love their children even when that love becomes tough, and when hard decisions have to be made for the child's own good.  Parents always hope the child will grow to understand and appreciate all that was done, and the sacrifices that were made for their sake.  After all that my father did for me throughout my life, we had our differences.  My father and I still go at it, occasionally, two adults arguing over who is right or wrong, vying for top dog.  At the end of the day it does not detract from the love I know he feels for me, nor that which I feel for him.  He is, after all, for better or worse, my father.  I will always respect and love him.

This Father's Day might be an appropriate time for fathers to take stock of their parenting and evaluate how they might do better.  If you think you're perfect, understand that you aren't.  If you give your child everything, maybe they require less.  And, if by everything, you mean material goods, maybe you should consider weekly trips to the ice cream parlor, park, zoo, etc., where you can become a part of your child's life, not just a cash machine.  You both might find that being there as a father is more meaningful to both of you than just being a father.  Sometimes the emotional attachment is a much better gift, and a father showing some emotional vulnerability is priceless.

Sister Wanda and I would like to wish all the "fathers" out there a happy Father's Day.  As much as I would love to stir the righteous pot at the monastery, I will not be including this picture of Sister Wanda when I post this to the monastery blog.  Some things you just know will make certain people, like the League of the Perpetually Offended, lose their little minds.

I wonder, if all the nuns had looked like Sister Wanda, would I still be a devout Catholic.

I wonder if Sister Wanda had used the ruler on me, would I have been a better person, or just learned to enjoy the ruler.

Things that make a father go, "Hmmmm..."  

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

Drawing the Prophet Muhammad?

Okay, now before the League of the Perpetually Offended goes off on me again, a daily occurrence of which I have learned to ignore, let me state that this is in no way intended to disrespect Islam, as Islam has enough of their own disrespecting their religion, and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).  The current lack of respect within the ranks of Islam, however, would seem to be an issue of heresy which Islam should be handling better than they are, if they are trying to handle it at all.

Yet, Islam as a whole, instead of addressing the serious issues of Islamic extremism affecting the entire world, chooses to address drawn images of Muhammad (pbuh).  As with the extremists that blindly follow an Imam that says Allah promises virgins to martyrs of the cause, it would seem the edict not to draw the prophet lacks as much credence.  Allah never declared it, Muhammad (pbuh) never asked for it, and there is little reason, other than control of the faithful, for this edict to even exist.  Yet, it does, and the fact that it does is taken on as much faith as Allah demanding the killing of innocent women and children, the "Chosen People of the book," and other sects of Islam.  But, then, I may not have the new and improved reinterpretation of the Qur'an.

As with the many heretics of Christendom and Judaism that allowed power to control their less than laudable actions down through history, there will always be those Imams that would see the world, and all of the innocence, art, and beauty it contains, burn in their efforts to control it for their own sad agendas.

As to the issue of drawing the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), the 2014 Pulitzer Prize winner, The Guardian, posted this article: Drawing the prophet: Islam’s hidden history of Muhammad images.  I think this short article does the subject respectful justice, and invite you to take a moment to check it out before you continue reading.

Regardless of whether the ban is proper or misguided, it is generally accepted as law by the Islamic faith, in general.  I find it offensive that anyone would purposefully use disrespect as a way of proving freedom of speech.  Showing your ass never proves anything except that you're an ass, and those that hold these competitions can call it what they want, but all of us need to realize they do it for no other reason than to stir an extremist pot better left alone.  That people died for drawing these pictures, was a foreseen tragedy by anyone with half a brain, which could have been avoided simply by not going out of their way to offend.  These were intelligent people with very little sense, and a twisted desire to commit suicide.  Success, you're dead!  I hate to speak ill of the dead, but those of us who might end up as collateral damage due to their stupidity are probably better off with them not here.

The simple fact that Islam has a collection of images of the prophet would make the murder of these artists seem hypocritical were it not for the substance of much of this new "art" of the prophet.  I'm not sure depicting Abraham, Jesus, Muhammad (pbuh), Buddha, or any other religious icon in a pornographic or other disrespectful context proves anything about free speech other that it has the unfortunate possibility of moving below the level of civilized good taste.  All these divisive people succeed in doing is to remind the world how far even the most civilized of us haven't progressed as a species.  

I will exercising my freedom of speech in order to put a very fine point on all this, and say there are folks out there that find these people, and their like, to be poster children for birth control.  Some others may find that comment very offensive.  Was it offensive?  Well, maybe we should think before we do anything.  Maybe we should concentrate our efforts on keeping our thoughts and actions a bit more in check, lest we offend.  

But, this is all just an opinion.  It could be wrong.  I doubt it, but it could be.

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

Walk by Faith, Not by Sight

Contradictions and Holy Scripture, the two seem inseparable to those of us willing to take a leap of faith, after all, faith IS what it is all about.  

I find it interesting that Corinthians documents were included in scripture that would be used as guiding text by any leaders of the Christian Church.  Have you ever asked yourself why there are ministers and priests running your chosen church, or why there is a church at all?  Have you ever asked yourself why there is a bible, for that matter?  Don't look to the bible for answers to these questions, as you may not like what you don't find.  If you get a chance, you might find perusing 1 & 2 Corinthians to be an interesting read.

He who made us worthy to be Ministers of The New Covenant, not in The Scripture, but in The Spirit, for The Scripture kills, but The Spirit gives life.

-- 2 Corinthians 3:6

We are instructed to "walk by faith, not by sight" because, "The Scripture kills, but The Spirit gives life."  Yet, time and again we find ourselves confronted by those faithful who wield the written bible as a shield or a sword, or both, depending on their need of the moment.  Have they not read this passage?  And what of these ministers and priests that seem to lead and judge our every waking moment?  Who appointed them the cock of the walk?  Well, Ephesians 4:11-13 says, "All Christians are ministers in the body of Christ."  Ray C. Stedman says this about the ministers and priests we have been coached to revere and respect down through the ages:  

"When I use the term "minister of Christ," I am not speaking of the traditional concept of a full-time employee of a church who is kept around to do the preaching, the teaching, the counseling and to run the mimeograph machine. Unfortunately that is a widespread concept of what the pastor ought to be and I run into it in many places. This concept, of course, is totally unknown in the New Testament. The idea of having a single pastor, the pastor, is an unbiblical imposition that has come into the church within the past 250 years. A minister of Christ in the New Testament churches was anyone, anyone, who by virtue of a gift of the Spirit was a preacher or a teacher of the Word of God."

-- Ray C. Stedman, www.raystedman.org/new-testament/1-corinthians

Hallelujah! Someone gets it!  "A minister of Christ in the New Testament churches was anyone, anyone, who by virtue of a gift of the Spirit was a preacher or a teacher of the Word of God."   But, were they discussing the written Word, or the spoken Word?  

We have seen the evidence put before us, especially in these current days of written mail, email, and texting, of how the written word can cause more problems than it solves due to misinterpretation.  Heck, most of the time a message isn't even transcribed word for word, so how in the world is one to make any accurate interpretation of it?  For heaven's sake, we're only human.  And, according to the bible, so are these so called religious leaders, appointed by other religious leaders of churches that were never intended.  All are only human, and none are beyond reproach.  So, we must rely on face to face oral communication which allows for a much greater accuracy and understanding of the spirit of the message trying to be conveyed.  In this way, perhaps we can understand the phrase from 2 Corinthians 3:6, "Scripture kills, but the Spirit gives life." 

"Do not go beyond what is written."  Then you will not take pride in one man over against another.  For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive?  And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?

-- 1 Corinthians 4:6-7

Did you catch the comment about churches that were never intended?  Find in the bible where it says to build a church, which is really defined as just a congregation of people.  Remember, then, Peter was to be the rock on which this congregation (church) was to be built.  We seem to have gone beyond that which was written and arrived at a misinterpretation due to a faulty translation.  When it came to prayer, what we were instructed to do was something totally opposite:

"When you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they may be seen by men.  Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.  "But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.  "And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words...

-- Matthew 6:5-7

Walk by faith, not by sight.  Don't stand and quote chapter and verse, as any fool can read the written word.  Do not hold Holy Scripture in front of you like a shield or a sword.  The only shield and sword at your disposal is your faith, and that faith is your armor against all evil in the world, not against your fellow man.  If they are not evil, "who are you to judge someone else's servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand."  If you use the bible as anything other than a reference document, you run the risk of violating God's rule as set forth in Exodus 20:3-5, to wit:

"You shall have no other gods before Me.  You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth.  You shall not worship them or serve them..."

Isn't your faith supposed to be enough?  It isn't a race.  It isn't an argument.  It isn't some game to be won.  And, it isn't for you to pass judgment, for this is the task of each person's Master.  When confronted by an individual wielding their holy book, remember, the words used against you, to judge you, are simply words.  Your faith will carry you forward as you smile, bless them for being one of God's "special" children, and walk, by faith, along your own path; continuing he journey God placed you on.  These other people, they have no power over you, and they are not for you to judge.

I have quoted the written word much in this post, as I have been known to do in other posts.  I do this for reason.  It is a great reference document for Abrahamic religions!  There is no reference document for faith.  Faith is something God must help you find.  Man is simply a tool, and, unfortunately, not many of them are sharp.

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."

Guest Post: The Proverbial Box!

Once again I welcome Gypsy and her opinions to The Path.  Those of my readers that have found interest in her past posts concerning her experiences with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), may find this one different, yet still of interest.  With everything she has on her plate she chooses to venture, albeit a short piece, into the oft times messy realm of "the box."  I feel pretty certain she does so with some experience in sorting through her own box of life's little pleasures to date.  As she says at the end, "Just some food for thought..."  I invite you to enjoy her latest effort, The Proverbial Box!

Many times I wonder why some feel the need to place everything in life in a neat little proverbial box.  Many times boxes in our lives are meant to be opened because they are gifts to treasure and enjoy.  So why are labels, stereotypes and dogma so important to some? 

At times I feel we turn to such things to attempt to define ourselves to the world around us.  Some feel the need to do this for ego, pride, self-esteem or such have you.  I am one of those that tend not to want to waste another tree on making a box to tie myself up in.  Besides, being claustrophobic tends to help me with the idea of not wanting to live in a little tiny space. I am me, and as long as I am the best me I can be so that I may help the world around me, then I am at peace with me.  

I personally believe once we set aside the labels and dogma, that often times separate us from each other, we are free to be ourselves and are then open to the guidance and directions the universe has in store for us.  There is a light that then emerges from the inside that is there for those that need it to see it. 

Isn't it time to set aside the labels that separate us and get down to the roots of why we are really here together on this planet we call earth?  All religions teach peace, love and compassion, and yet when we separate ourselves and choose whom we feel, because of our labels, we have chosen as worthy of our love, have we not gone against our own beliefs just to boost our own egos and self-esteem? 

May we please try to set aside the labels, dogma, and whose religion is right or wrong, and get down to the dirt of what really matters? 

Isn’t it time to recycle that box and spread our wings and fly so we may be open to the task at hand, helping our brothers and sisters on this earth around us! 

Just some food for thought outside the proverbial box!

-- GYPSY

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path." 

My Sunday Thought for June 14, 2015: What Is Ramadan?

Photo - Vincent Kessle

The blessed month of Ramadan begins at sunset this Wednesday, June 17.  

So, just what is Islam's blessed month of Ramadan?  Well, it should make us all feel bad as Muslims, Christians, and Jews if we don't do what Islam does for more than one "blessed month" a year. 

During the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. As a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice, Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking. 

Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. We are to make peace with those who have wronged us, strengthen ties with family and friends, do away with bad habits -- essentially to clean up our lives, our thoughts, and our feelings. The Arabic word for "fasting" (sawm) literally means "to refrain" - and it means not only refraining from food and drink, but from evil actions, thoughts, and words. 

During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must restrain themselves from looking at unlawful things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast.  

Therefore, fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the total commitment of the person's body and soul to the spirit of the fast. 

Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint; a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus one's self on the worship of God.

-- Islam.about.com

Setting aside the requirement to "abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs," I would view the rest of it as a daily ritual of focusing attention on God, self-sacrifice, and a re-evaluation of our life.  Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't wait for Ramadan to make peace with those who have wronged us and constantly strengthened ties with family and friends and cleaned up our lives, thoughts, and feelings?  Isn't it a daily edict to refrain from evil actions, thoughts and words?  I think God expects this 24/7/365.  Am I wrong?

It would seem Ramadan is a time for Islam to admit no one is perfect, except Allah.  It would also seem that, like Christianity and Judaism, even Muslims fail at daily adherence to the faith, I mean, let's face it, if they were constantly faithful there would be no need for Ramadan.  We are all in need of some daily cleansing and sorting out, even the most faithful.

I have great respect for the three Abrahamic religions, as well as the other world philosophies that follow a path of peace, love, and brotherhood.  I think the "religious" terrorist extremists in the world might do well to refrain from evil actions, thoughts, and words, for more than just one month a year as I have a feeling God meant this to be a daily undertaking, not to be reinterpreted for their own personal agenda.  As for the rest of us, I personally try not to follow in the footsteps of the League of the Perpetually Offended, but it really bothers me when people find the need to prove free speech by offending someone's religious beliefs.  If you want to exercise your freedom, do so without drawing the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).  Respect their beliefs as much as you'd like them to respect yours.  Or to put it more succinctly, don't be a suicidal jackass.  God expects more of us.

To all of my peaceful Islamic readers, may Allah bring peace and blessings into your life and home.  Ramadan Mubarak!

Editor's Note 

(re: disclaimer cum "get out of jail free" card) 

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so.

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and then engaging in peaceful, constructive, discussion and debate in an arena of mutual respect concerning the opinions put forth. After over twenty years as a military intelligence analyst, planner, and briefer, I have come to believe engaging each other in this manner and in this arena is the way we will learn tolerance and respect for differing beliefs, cultures, and viewpoints.

We all fall from grace, some more often than others; it is part of being human. God's test for us is what we do afterward, and what we learn from the experience.

Frank Anthony Villari (aka, Pastor Tony)

Pastor Tony is founder of the Congregation for Religious Tolerance and author/editor of the Congregation's official blog site, "The Path."