Questioning Evidence as Proof

 

“The religious man will constantly look for the proof of Heaven and Hell; while the atheist man will constantly look to disprove Heaven and Hell. And they go on like that, locked-head in battle, both battling for beliefs that really cannot be proven. Neither the existence nor the non-existence of Heaven and Hell can be proven. And soon they will all be dead. And nobody will know where they go to, except they themselves who die. And so the battle continues, as it always has. And why should I join either side? If there is a God Almighty, I should imagine Him not needing human beings made out of carbon to believe in Him. What use to God would our species be? If He loves us, then He will love us because He chooses to love us. Never because He needs us to believe in Him. It wouldn't make any difference whatsoever, to an Almighty God, if carbon species breathing oxygen believed in Him or not. If He wanted to love the species then He just would. Regardless of their own persuasions. And if there is not an Almighty God, then it would not matter if I joined such a battle, either. Either way, why would I join such a cursed downward spiral? The truth that we do know for sure, is that it is our responsibility and it is in our best interest, to live our lives in such a way that creates Heaven on Earth and puts Hell on Earth far away.”

-- C. JoyBell C.

Why won't people give up trying to ruin someone else’s life?

It is their goal. The more important question is why? What did the other person do that was so beyond the pale that working toward ruing their life is an appropriate penalty and worth the effort and the negative karma it will garner? This becomes a “no-win” scenario and revenge usually gets the lion’s portion of the negative karma.

Do you prefer fast or slow sex?

Slow, but building to a crescendo of epic proportions over the course of a few hours.

My five-year-old son told me he wants to wear just socks and underwear around the house but is shy as he is the only boy in the house and I have three daughters (5 and two teens). What should I do?

Explain to him that he can choose to do this when he can afford his own place. Until then, he has to respect the young lady's delicate sensibilities.

This is my life, so why can't I do euthanasia if I want to?

Guns, razor blades, and pills, oh my! It’s hard to believe, with the current administration, but you actually do live in a country with laws. There are states that allow “physician-assisted” euthanasia, for good cause. If you have a good cause, check them out. If not, well, suicide is rarely painless or lacking in stress. If your life really sucks, why would you want to kill yourself and be anchored here as a spirit for eternity? Better you should work through your issues.

Is it better to correct mistakes in life rather than learn from them & move forward?

If you can, then, absolutely. Never move on and leave your mistakes unattended. You learn from them by seeing why you went wrong and correcting the issues, if possible, before moving forward and screwing up, yet again.

“Analyze and correct your past mistakes before they paralyze your future! An undiscovered error will always crave for repetition.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬”

-- Israelmore Ayivor

When's a time you were unintentionally a hero?

Unfortunately, it’s probably still classified.

How did spending time with successful people change your mindset?

I worked for a woman with two medical degrees, and one in chemistry. She couldn’t read a blueprint, so the covered “walk-around” on her new building in western Washington, where it rains most of the year, barely kept you dry and certainly wasn’t in any way a walk-around. I became her “go-to” for reading plans and blueprints. It was confirmation to me that intelligence is no substitute for street smarts. I’ve known doctors who were constantly in credit trouble because they couldn’t balance a checkbook. We all deserve respect. Those that can, do. Those that can’t, teach. And, to each according to their ability.

How do you say sorry less often?

Stop creating reasons that cause you to apologize. Make better choices and decisions.

Am I a better person today than I was yesterday?

I don’t know. Are you? 

What proof do we have of Jesus?

Just stories, scripture, anecdotal evidence. Now, ask what proof do we have that he never existed? Because all we have are stories, scripture, anecdotal evidence. In the absence of evidence, there is always blind faith.  Faith, after all, is the belief in something for which there is little or no proof.

You don’t have to believe the stories or excuse the lack of evidence. All of this is as obvious as the message behind the curtain hiding 2000 years of hidden agendas, control, and criminal enterprise.

Pay attention to the spirit of the message. The distortion you hear are the naysayers trying to sway your faith, faith in a belief for which there is no solid proof.  And, there are the “carpetbaggers” trying to make an easy buck off of the faithful. Clergy who feel one private jet isn't enough, while the hungry are still hungry.  But, the message, real or not, is a good basis for living life. If you can separate the hidden agendas from the truth, the message has much good in it.

Whether you are a deist or not, the message is worth the read.  But, regardless, always try to do selfless good in the world around you. Listen to all messages of peace, love, and hope, and hold them close to your heart. Do not judge those peaceful folks who believe differently than you, even if they can't help but judge you.  Two wrongs don't make a right, so, be tolerant of others.

"Historical reconstruction is never absolutely certain, and in the case of Jesus, it is sometimes highly uncertain. Despite this, we have a good idea of the main lines of his ministry and his message. We know who he was, what he did, what he taught, and why he died. ..... the dominant view [among scholars] today seems to be that we can know pretty well what Jesus was out to accomplish, that we can know a lot about what he said, and that those two things make sense within the world of first-century Judaism."

-- E.P. Sanders, Oxford & Duke Universities

Why is it more satisfying and fun driving your own car than you bought instead of a gifted one or someone else's? Why is smoking someone else's cigarettes more satisfying than smoking your own? What's the name of this psychological phenomenon?

Pride in ownership, for the car. Cheap-ass selfish use of someone else, for the smokes. No idea what it’s called.

Why do little girls want to become hookers?

Have you seen the outfits? I’m almost a 70-year-old man and I want to become one. Oh-my-goodness! Yep, there it is. Now you’ve got this image of a 70-year-old man in a hot hooker outfit seared into your brain. Good luck not seeing that for a while. 

You know the saying “trust your gut” but has your gut ever been wrong in life decisions?

All the time. Better you should run choices and decisions through the brain once or twice, just to make sure the gut isn’t just upset. 

Should I listen to my gut feelings?

If you’re not gonna blow chunks, I’d recommend using your brain. The results tend to be better, especially since the brain handles the “gut feelings” you have, as well. 

How does a man know that no one knows something for certain?

“I am wiser than this man, for neither of us appears to know anything great and good; but he fancies he knows something, although he knows nothing; whereas I, as I do not know anything, so I do not fancy I do. In this trifling particular, then, I appear to be wiser than he, because I do not fancy I know what I do not know.”

-- Socrates

Socrates simplified his thought:

“The only thing I know is that I know nothing, and I am not quite sure that I know that.”

-- Socrates

Why does my girlfriend respond 14 hours later saying she was just sleeping, and how can I catch her cheating?

The fact that you ask this question makes me think your relationship sucks. I’d find someone you trust, so you can stop looking for trouble.

What types of happiness does money not buy? Which types of happiness does money buy?

True happiness cannot be bought. True happiness is a choice you make for your life, and you always strive for it. Transient happiness you can purchase, and it lasts as long as you are interested, and then it goes. It has little to do with the truly sustained happiness of life. Happiness for a moment doesn't have to be bought, but it is still not sustainable.  To make the choice to be happy always and in all things, is to stirve for true happiness.

What are some events that are a when and not an if?

It is what it is until it isn’t, applies here. Everything is a when, until it becomes an if. “When we get our meal…” but, the kitchen is on fire, so, “If we get our meal…” is now in play.

How do you stop getting really obsessed with the people you hate?

Stop hating people. Hate is counterproductive to happiness. If you stop hating you’ll probably stop becoming obsessed. Tada!

I looked at some immoral content I found after going searching for it, and now I really regret it. I feel like a monster. Is there any redeeming myself?

Be careful what you search for, you might find it. You made a mistake. You recognize you made the mistake. You feel bad about the mistake. This would be guilt. Learn from the mistake, and move on down the road. You are redeemed the minute you regretted doing it. 

"What is moral is what you feel good after, and what is immoral is what you feel bad after."

-- Ernest Hemingway 

Would you have sex in public?

What kind of money are we talking?

I really dislike a friend who is becoming overly concerned about me. What can I do?

Thank them for their concern and ask them to back the hell off. If they ask why… tell them.

What is the most important thing in a love relationship?

Not forgetting to be friends, first and foremost.

What do you do for fun, and are you into anything sexual?

Art, woodwork, writing, and of course.

Do we all repent for being alive?

Only if you’ve sinned. Okay, yes.

“There is none righteous, not even one.”

-- Romans 3:10

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. This is also why, occasionally, I will present an "opinion" just to stir an emotional pot. Where it may sound like I agree with the statements made, I'm more interested in getting others to consider an alternate viewpoint. 

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion, in an arena of mutual respect, concerning those opinions put forth. After over twenty years with military intelligence, 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 learn from the experience, and what we do afterward.

Pastor Tony spent 22 years with the United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Institutional Review Board helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. Ordained 1n 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As the weapon for his war on intolerance he chose the pen, and wages his "battle" in the guise of the Congregation's official online blog, The Path, of which he is both author and editor. "The Path" offers a vehicle for commentary and guidance concerning one's own personal, spiritual, path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He currently resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as a chaplain at the regional medical center.

Feel free to contact Pastor Tony:  tolerantpastor@gmail.com

Questioning the Journey, Traits, Talent, and Sex (Again?)

  

“Some beautiful paths 

can't be discovered 

without getting lost.”

-- Erol Ozan

What should a person consider success? People spend their lives chasing a big goal but rarely speak about the journey. Are there only failures along the way? I need some insight.

First of all, “success” is finding true happiness always and in everything you do. We do spend an inordinate amount of our lives striving to attain goals without enjoying the journey it takes us to get there. Why? Because there are failures along the way, and many of us don’t understand the truth of failure. Failure, for all the negativity we have thrust upon it, is nothing more than an opportunity to learn. Critiquing why we fail gives us that new information that allows us to learn from our mistakes and to move forward. If we don’t fail, we don’t move forward.

Always consider finding the only real success in life - true happiness. Always chase your goals, but not at the expense of enjoying the journey you take to get there. Embrace that you will fail, many times, and be happy in the understanding that you will emerge from failure with new knowledge to assist you in attaining your goals.

How can the belief in something make it happen?

Only if you work hard toward what you believe in. Faith and belief are only one aspect in the process to make something a reality. You must have faith in order to have belief. Faith is the belief in something for which there is little or no proof, until, that is, you put into it the hard work necessary to make it a reality.

What is the biggest lie an adult has ever told you?

Santa Clause was real.

What is your archetype, and how do you know it?

I have not bothered to search for my “archetype” because I am aware that, like all of us, I am unique.

What does it mean to be human? Can you give your personal opinion or belief?

We can give many examples of what we think humans are, but other species exhibit the same trait or traits. I suppose my thought on this is exactly that - my thought on this.

I think about what it means to be human. I exercise critical thinking, accepting some facts and discarding others to arrive at an answer to a question some other human thought to ask.

We think in this particular way and we are driven to create machines that transport us to other planets, in order to answer other questions which will take us to those stars we have thought about since we were created.

We think. We question. We actively search for answers and discover more questions. This is what we do, who we are, and, very possibly, why we exist.

Author's comment: Great answer, Tony. I believe that we first started becoming human when we first raised our eyes to the stars and wondered…

“Before you call yourself a Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, or any other theology, learn to be human first.”

-- Shannon L. Alder

Which is better, youth and naivety or age and wisdom? Why?

They both have their benefits. But, youth and naiveté say you can have sex of a lifetime, with all comers, till the cows come home. Age and wisdom say to temper that attitude with some good sense. Why? Soon or later the cows do come home. How many women do you need to get pregnant? How many STDs do you need to contact?

Why is it hard for some people to forgive you?

Since I rarely do anything wrong, when I do, they aren’t sure. 

What is your reflection on this quote "Every job is a self-portrait of the person who does it. Autographs your work with excellence"?

Far be it for me to disagree with the great Vince Lombardi, but, every job really reflects the ability of the person who does it. The person may be the biggest son of a bitch in the world, but he does his job with excellence. In such a case, the quality of the job is so not a “self-portrait” of the person doing it. 

Why does each individual person become more and more contradictory and different?

The nature of being free and an individual. Socialist and communist countries do not celebrate contradiction and difference, they would prefer to build gulags to bury folks like this.

What is one thing you would say to someone who judges you based on emotional or mental health problems?

“You do know I have emotional and mental health problems, right? Think about that, as you try to sleep tonight.” Or, you could take the other path, "I have bigger problems than to really care what you think." And, there is always the simple response, "Thanks, asshole."  Personally, I like the first response.  But, then, I'm retired from military intelligence.

“The self-righteous scream judgments against others to hide the noise of skeletons dancing in their own closets.”

-- John Mark Green

What are your opinions on perfectionist people?

They will never be because perfection does not exist. The most they can do is strive to be “exceptionalists.” 

What happens to evildoers?

Bad karma.

How do you know if you have no talent?

You have tried everything and you do nothing well. How many people have ever tried everything? I would say, none. So, you may never know if you have a hidden talent, or not. I think everyone has a talent. If you don’t know what it is, it is yet to be discovered.

What are some unique hidden talents people have?

Armpit farting.

If atheists only want evidence, why do premillennialists think God is going to let them have it for a millennium? Isn't this test we are in all about faith without direct evidence?

Faith is simply a belief is something with little or no proof. Atheists and deists both operate on faith. Both believe that they are right, though neither of them has any proof. For me, the biggest difference between the two sides is that the deists seem to not care about proof, even though the atheists seem to keep asking for it. Again, neither side has incontrovertible proof, yet, for deists, their faith seems to be enough.

Reader's comment: You are confusing evidence and proof. When a hypothesis would reasonably be expected to produce certain results and the results are found to be absent, that is evidence that the hypothesis is false. How much evidence is considered proof depends on what standard of proof you choose to apply.

My reply: I never mentioned “evidence,” but I did mention “incontrovertible” proof, however.

Note to my readers:  It took a few seconds after I posted this for the League of the Perpetually Offended to respond with a comment.  They did not respond to my reply.  Again, I wish they would stop trying to help me.  But, wait.  There's more...

Second reader's comment:  All religions had proof - they all had evidence! That’s why they began.

Thunder was loud and scary. It must be a deity: Thor getting angry.

Mountains grumbled and spat fire. Must be an angry deity - in Hawaii they called him Pele, in Tenerife they named him Guayota.

Floods and droughts killed people. Again, must be an angry deity: god.

Only when science appeared and said: actually, no, these are all natural phenomena that occur whether man is present or not.

Oh, said theists, in that case, we’ll believe on faith - that is belief without evidence.

So let me get this straight, primitive, illiterate uneducated people attributed natural phenomena they couldn’t explain to various deities.

Educated, literate, intelligent people find natural explanations, yet theists want to believe what the primitive illiterates thought, so give it a new term, faith!

Come off if, the gig’s up pal.

My reply:  First, it's "come off it" not "come off if", but I'll not dwell on it.  I find it interesting, through your mindless rant, that you have not presented one iota of proof of the non-existence of God.  I waited.  Oh, I agree with everything you've said, but you are typical of the League of the Perpetually Offended.  

You excel at rants like that makes you right.  Nope, you still sit with the deists because neither of you has presented proof.  By the way, thank you for agreeing with me on that point, although I really don't need your help.  Organized religion simply sucks, but you presented a rant, not proof that you are right.  Don't get mad, the deists can't present the proof, either, pal.

I totally agree with you. But, your proof for the non-existence of God is where in all of what you’ve written. I was certain you were going to present incontrovertible proof to our readers. Or, was it just for the opportunity to rant and present nothing cogent?

Second reader's reply:  That was my point. Atheism concerns rational [evidence-based] belief, not proof.

My reply:  Ah, again, faith, based on belief. There is only “rational” evidence, which really isn't evidence at all, and certainly not incontrovertible proof. 

“Without hope, we fail to exist.”

-- Lailah Gifty Akita

Do we make a choice to forgive?

Everything we do is a choice. Make good ones.

What makes some humans better at absorbing information than others?

The input jack has better wiring and gold connectors.

What are the most logical fields of knowledge?

It should come as no surprise that “logic” is found nowhere in the academic disciplines. Mr. Spock would probably say this explains a lot. I think it explains a lot about current academia and the management of the world.

I got rejected by my crush, and now I feel bad for making her upset. What should I do?

Learn.

Does sin demonstrate to God that you would rather have Satan's view of reality?

No. Sin demonstrates to God what was known all along - we’re only human.

“Adam was but human—this explains it all. He did not want the apple for the apple's sake, he wanted it only because it was forbidden. The mistake was in not forbidding the serpent; then he would have eaten the serpent.”

-- Mark Twain

Who has a stronger sex desire, men or women?

Who’s turn is it to wield the paddle? 

What are some ways to get the perfect lifestyle?

Be truly happy at all times and in all things. Since nothing is truly “perfect,” it can be truly excellent. 

Why would you argue with me that the one who receives, does more good than the ones who give?

That’s a very good question. Why would I?

What is the psychological reason why humans are much quicker to recall and discuss people's flaws, misdeeds, and mistakes more than the same person's good deeds?

Misplaced ego? Delusions of superiority? Judgmental? Help me out, here.

Why can’t everyone win?

There must be balance in the universe - Light and dark, good and evil, sweet and sour, winners and losers. Without one how would we ever know of the other? There are still primitive cultures that fall victim to lying and stealing because they don’t do either, they have no concept of either to fall back on when it occurs. Their culture is idyllic until it isn’t, and then there is balance. I am ashamed to use a current adage, but, it is what it is until it isn’t and, then, it is what it is again… only not.

“Reality is what it is, and what it isn’t, it isn’t.

Sometimes, what it is it isn’t, and what it isn’t, well... it is.

Other times it is nothing, and then it isn’t anything.

But, if it is nothing, it isn’t, and if it isn’t anything, it is.

Acknowledging nothing gives nothing existence;

Therefore, whether it is or it isn’t, it must be,

Because even nothing that isn’t, already is.”

-- Frank A. Villari

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. This is also why, occasionally, I will present an "opinion" just to stir an emotional pot. Where it may sound like I agree with the statements made, I'm more interested in getting others to consider an alternate viewpoint. 

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion, in an arena of mutual respect, concerning those opinions put forth. After over twenty years with military intelligence, 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 learn from the experience, and what we do afterward.

Pastor Tony spent 22 years with the United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Institutional Review Board helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. Ordained 1n 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As the weapon for his war on intolerance he chose the pen, and wages his "battle" in the guise of the Congregation's official online blog, The Path, of which he is both author and editor. "The Path" offers a vehicle for commentary and guidance concerning one's own personal, spiritual, path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He currently resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as a chaplain at the regional medical center.

Feel free to contact Pastor Tony:  tolerantpastor@gmail.com

Questioning Masturbation... Twice (We might as well.)

 

"My parents spanked me as a child.  As a result, I now suffer from a psychological condition known as 'Respect for Others' syndrome."

-- Unknown

 

What is the most convincing way to tell someone that you have put up with more than enough and you are finished having them as a part of your life?

The only way to convince these folks is to hold to what you tell them. You’re done with them, you don’t wish them to be a part of your life. You don’t want them to contact you. You don’t want them around you. Now, it is up to you to erase them from your life. Do not acknowledge them in any way. They do not exist in your life. Convincing? The message will resonate with all around you, including the target.

How was the food cooked during the time of Jesus?

Over a fire, in an oven, in pots, with vegetables, meat, and seasoning. Pretty much the way we cook now, only not.

How can a person control himself or herself from being not happy?

Get rid of everything in your life that brings you misery. Debt, drama, bad relationships, bad jobs, and the like. Then, make the conscious choice to be happy always and in all things. Do not let drama and misery back into your life. You live in a paradise of your own making. Each morning, thank God for the gift of another day in paradise and another chance for you to excel in your life, then go out and make it so.

Why is America the only major country in the world that does not recognize natural immunity?

It’s a political thing.

What is your definition of success? Is it financial gain, or is it non-materialistic?

Everybody seems to think success is attaining some goal that will make them financially comfortable. That is simply attaining a comfort level. Success is when you are truly happy with your life. Rich or poor, working hard or not, to be able to strive to be happy always and in everything you do, this is true happiness.

What you do with your life is up to you. Your choices and decisions are the foundation of your destiny. Wake up every morning and thank God for the gift of another day in paradise and another chance to excel in this life. When you can do this, you are on your way to being happy always. It is your life, nobody else’s, so live your life to the fullest and let no one hold you back, disregard your happiness or visit unwanted drama upon your life.

“He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much;

Who has enjoyed the trust of pure women, the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children;

Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;

Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's beauty or failed to express it;

Who has left the world better than he found it,

Whether an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul;

Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had;

Whose life was an inspiration;

Whose memory a benediction.”

-- Bessie Anderson Stanley

How can I be a good impression on my local rescue squad?

Stop calling them?

Does anybody disregarding your own choices, opinions, and/or beliefs bother you?

They’re my choices, opinions, and beliefs. I could care less if anybody disregards them, they’re mine. The League of the Perpetually Offended (LPO) disregards me all the time. They seem to think I care, but I really don’t. Atheists, charter members of the LPO, try to disregard me, yet they feel the need to cuss me out and ridicule me. I’m not certain that is really disregarding me. They make themselves look small in the process, but, again, I don’t care how small they wish to look as long as they end up sounding like they support my views. I ignore them as much as possible.

Is Trump now the world's most validated loser? Even his own partisan recounts proved he was a loser. Has anyone before him been validated a loser this much?

Our country is now the most validated loser. Something for us to be so proud of.

Should we dump office tasks that nobody wants to do on the admin staff?

Let's go with that and see who still has a job, or, better yet, has someone else’s job. As a supervisor and manager, I look for this shit to help office efficiency. What you want to do is immaterial, what you are assigned to do is very material.

Which ones do you think are the best traits to have in a personality, and why?

Tolerant, understanding, responsible, good communicator, good listener, hard worker, even-handed, and kind.

“Everyone has a sense of humor. If you don't laugh at jokes, you probably laugh at opinions.”

-- Criss Jami

Who is the most meritorious hero in supporting your success?

My commanders, managers, supervisors, and trainers in the military were, to a person, the most supportive to me in achieving my goals.

Why do we follow traditions even when we don't know the reason behind them?

If I’m following a tradition but don’t know it’s a tradition, my ignorance is justified. If I find out I’m doing something that is a tradition, I ask what the tradition is. Shaking hands and the military salute are greeting traditions many don’t know the reason behind.

What is something people might often do out of respect for others although you personally feel it’s useless?

I can’t think of a thing. If I do it “often” it can’t be all that useless. And, if I’m doing it out of respect, the use is in the showing of respect. Again, not useless.

What are your opinions about bullies?

I try not to think about them. Ignore them and they’ll lose interest? They won’t. If they don’t lose interest get a few “dweeb” friends and beat the crap out of them when they accost someone. That’ll put them on notice that their behavior is inappropriate. Bullies don’t like to be bullied by their victims, it’s embarrassing. Two wrongs don’t make a right, but standing up for yourself isn’t wrong. I was bullied until I took a stand. It works. It’s physically painful, but it works… and makes them look like morons to everyone else.

Why do people make far too many promises that they have no interest in keeping?

They enjoy being known for not keeping promises. It also makes their word not worth anything. If they give you their word, give it back, it’s worthless.

“Words can be twisted into any shape. Promises can be made to lull the heart and seduce the soul. In the final analysis, words mean nothing. They are labels we give things in an effort to wrap our puny little brains around their underlying natures when ninety-nine percent of the time the totality of the reality is an entirely different beast. The wisest man is the silent one. Examine his actions. Judge him by them.”

-- Karen Marie Moning

Why am I able to feel love and compassion for a total stranger than a person whom I had known for quite some time?

Expectations. You probably expect the person you’ve known for some time to get over themselves, stop whining, and get back with the program. You don’t know strangers well enough to have the same expectations.

My rent has doubled. Where can I go?

Mississippi.

Which sport best serves as a microcosm for everyday life?

Football. You work with a team. You have a plan and a goal. You work hard. You get knocked down and get back up. You are supervised and managed. Your health is monitored. You get breaks. Plans change, but the goal stays the same. If you attain enough goals, you win. You rest up for the next day when you do it all over again. Down the road, you can either retire or try for management.

Why should you retire in Turkey?

Chicken shish, lahmacun, silivri yogurt, chai, and food, food, and more food. When I was stationed there in the late 1970s, the people in Adana loved Americans and I made many friends there.

What do I do if the manager called me stupid? In my late 30s, a Ph.D., but still so hurtful.

Tell the HR department. Tell him that stooping to name-calling is seriously immature and out of character for a professional manager. Grab him by the throat or, if you’re a woman, grab him by his package, put him up against a wall, and explain, in no uncertain terms, what will happen if he ever calls you “stupid” again. He’s an immature moron flexing his position of authority, and not very well. I’d kick him in the balls, hard enough that he loses lunch, but, then, I’m retired military. I don’t put up with idiots, anymore. 

“What was this power, this insidious threat, this invisible gun to her head that controlled her life . . . this terror of being called names? 

She had stayed a virgin so she wouldn't be called a tramp or a slut; had married so she wouldn't be called an old maid; faked orgasms so she wouldn't be called frigid; had children so she wouldn't be called barren; had not been a feminist because she didn't want to be called queer and a man hater; never nagged or raised her voice so she wouldn't be called a bitch . . . 

She had done all that and yet, still, this stranger had dragged her into the gutter with the names that men call women when they are angry.”

-- Fannie Flagg

I am 58 years old. Is there an age to stop masturbating?

Stop spanking the monkey? Oh, please, God! No!  The horror of it all.  Seriously, though, I understand there's an expiration date on it. Go past the date and it falls off.  Did I really use "seriously" to describe my answer?

I walked in on my son (15) masturbating, now he’s embarrassed to talk to me. What should I do?

Instead of "nipping it in the bud," you might explain the reality of it. He should feel like he can talk to you about anything. And, remind  him that doors have locks.  Humor helps.

I am not happy and satisfied with my married life because my husband is unable to satisfy my sexual needs. What should I do now?

What happened to the vows? The love and the partnership? Did you base your marriage on just sexual satisfaction? Not very smart. Have you discussed this with him? Asked him his thoughts? Probably a good idea before you pass around an STD you don’t know you picked up. Better to end the “marriage” now, before it gets worse. 

Why does my man sometimes look around during sex?

Force of habit. He’s making sure the husband isn’t coming in the door. Think about it.

Are we condemned to be moral?

I'm a pastor, and I fall off the moral bandwagon constantly, so, no.

“The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.”

-- Oscar Wilde

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. This is also why, occasionally, I will present an "opinion" just to stir an emotional pot. Where it may sound like I agree with the statements made, I'm more interested in getting others to consider an alternate viewpoint. 

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion, in an arena of mutual respect, concerning those opinions put forth. After over twenty years with military intelligence, 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 learn from the experience, and what we do afterward.

Pastor Tony spent 22 years with the United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Institutional Review Board helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. Ordained 1n 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As the weapon for his war on intolerance he chose the pen, and wages his "battle" in the guise of the Congregation's official online blog, The Path, of which he is both author and editor. "The Path" offers a vehicle for commentary and guidance concerning one's own personal, spiritual, path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He currently resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as a chaplain at the regional medical center.

Feel free to contact Pastor Tony:  tolerantpastor@gmail.com

Questioning Negativity, Truth, Emotions, and Morals

 

“Always do what is right. It will gratify half of mankind and astound the other.”

-- Mark Twain

Do you blame negative people for their negative behaviors and traits?

Life is about making choices. They have made choices, consciously or not, to accept that which made them negative or allowed them to accept a particular trait. We love to blame others for who we are or what we’re going through. Were they the impetus? Yes! Definitely! But if you allow them to control who you are, by the choice you make because of what they’ve done to you, they'll continue to destroy your life till the end.

When do you take a stand and, in doing so, take your life back? Maybe it’s time to positively declare, “You don’t control me, anymore!”

Does experience make a person wiser?

If you choose to learn from it, yes.

What makes someone happy in life?

Life! Any day on this side of the dirt is a marvelous day! It represents the gift from God of another opportunity to excel.

How do you not feel emotionally drained from all of your responsibility in life?

I prefer to strive for happiness always. Oh, it would be so much easier to allow me to become emotionally drained, but what would that serve? What would it benefit me, other than ulcers and stress? No. I made the conscious choice to happily take on the responsibilities I have had in life, for the past 50 years. I have made the conscious choice to strive for true happiness always, for the past 20 years, since my divorce. The alternative simply sucks.

What is a personal experience where it reflects that ethics are not the same as our feelings?

I found myself in bed, having the sex of a lifetime, with a married woman, simply because I felt I wanted it, although it was completely against my moral code of ethics. I felt ashamed of my weakness… much later.

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”

-- Aristotle

What is the truest happiness in?

Life! Embrace it. You will find no happiness in death unless you are reborn into life.

My son started doing an impression of a shark catching prey, despite us being vegans. How should I deal with his unacceptable behavior?

It isn’t unacceptable to the shark. Your son is simply imitating the reality of nature’s survival of the fittest. What is he supposed to replace the impression of reality with, a shark catching a carrot? If you’re “vegan” I’d reinforce that this is fine for the wild, but not so fine for your philosophy in life.

Should you take hard actions or wait for things to flow naturally?

When someone grabs my shapely butt, or what?

How do you know if someone likes you but is hiding it?

If they’re really good at hiding it, you don’t. If they’re not, it’s going to be pretty obvious.

What are six truths everyone should know and never forget?

There’s no such thing as a free lunch.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
You can’t judge a book by its cover.
There is no substitute for hard work.
It is better to be right than to be wrong.
Listening is a better teacher than speaking.

“The truth is rarely pure and never simple.”

-- Oscar Wilde

If religion can make you a moral person, then how come there are so many, many Christians that are immoral and bad people?

Religion can make you a moral person, there is no guarantee it will. An atheist with a personal set of moral and ethical values faces the same dilemma. Being a moral and ethical person is a personal choice you must make and stand up for. It has little to do with outside influence unless you choose to allow the influence to sway your personal choice.

What is the greatest achievement in your goal?

Being exceedingly and truly happy when I achieve the goal, otherwise, what’s the point?

What are we human beings trying to achieve? Why does it seem like we are repeating history again and again with different characters in a different setting?

Happiness! We just keep falling on our sword by making the same bad decisions because we refuse to learn from what caused us to fail so many times before. History repeats when we learn nothing from it. “Cancel Culture” will prove this out, once again, if we don’t stop it. 

What do you think every celebrity has in common?

To a great degree? “Liberal” arts.

My partner doesn’t want sex anymore. What do I do?

Let them know you still have needs and will be satisfying those needs elsewhere if they can’t. Your partner has the choice to, either way, get with the program. If the partner agrees with you satisfying your sexual needs elsewhere, the partnership will, in all probability, sooner or later, dissolve.

“Sex without love is as hollow and ridiculous as love without sex.”

-- Hunter S. Thompson

Why does someone care for a short period but when you are in need of someone or in pain they up and leave like you meant nothing?

Tough love, by providing an opportunity to learn. Or they’re being hypocritical. If they truly care, they’re providing you an opportunity to learn from what you’re going through. Whichever, if the person is paying close attention, the truth in their actions will soon become obvious. Sometimes, doing nothing can force an intelligent person to consider what is really going on.

When does a child become a person?

When there is brain activity. 

Do you think humanity has a positive or negative future?

The earth will abide unless something in space slams into it and removes the atmosphere. Our planet is resilient. The earth has a symbiotic relationship will all lifeforms that inhabit the planet. Mankind had this same relationship until it mutated into a virus. But, the eath will abide until the virus of mankind runs its course. Whether mankind can come back into balance with nature, remains to be seen. Mankind will either run its course and burn out or mutate into a symbiotic lifeform, like it was, only different. They will, at that moment, possess the knowledge of a new history.

What makes you fall for someone?

When they come on to me. Yes, I know.

Everyone needs to have social contact, especially sexual contact. Is it better than any job or any amount of money?

Yes, but who in their right mind would have sexual contact with a man that has no job and no money? That would be seen more as evidence of true love.

“Let me tell you a story. There was a student who asked his teacher, what is love? The teacher said go into the field and bring me the most beautiful flower. The student returned with no flower at hand and said, “I found the most beautiful flower in the field but I didn't pick it up for I might find a better one, but when I returned to the place, it was gone.” 

We always look for the best in life. When we finally see it, we take it for granted and after some time start expecting a better one, not knowing that it's the best for us.”

-- Abhijit Naskar

How do I resolve a major argument with my partner?

Find a “middle ground” where both of you can save face. Good luck!

How did you overcome being misunderstood as a person?

I learned it wasn’t important to be understood by others, as long as you understood yourself. If you care about being understood, you care about how others judge you. I don’t. If you want to keep up, keep up.

What is a peaceful easy feeling?

True happiness.

What objects do you think best reflect your personality? Why?

Double-edged swords. They cut both ways or not at all.

Should lies have short legs or long noses? What would be better in everyday life? How would you react to it in public?

We shouldn’t be equating lies with body shaming. Short legs or long noses, lies are not morally correct. As such, I suppose it’s best the lies don’t run very far, and since Pinnochio has already put a “long nose” on lying, I’d have to go with the nose. As far as a reaction, I try to separate myself from lies as much as possible. Too much drama.

“Truth is emotional, it is based on vested interests. A lie that defends my interests is the absolute truth, but truth that goes against my survival is a pure lie. We know the objective truth, but we smear it, tarnish it and assassinate it if it speaks against our wellbeing.”

-- Bangambiki Habyarimana

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. This is also why, occasionally, I will present an "opinion" just to stir an emotional pot. Where it may sound like I agree with the statements made, I'm more interested in getting others to consider an alternate viewpoint. 

It is my fervent hope that we keep open and active minds when reading opinions and while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion, in an arena of mutual respect, concerning those opinions put forth. After over twenty years with military intelligence, 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 learn from the experience, and what we do afterward.

Pastor Tony spent 22 years with the United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Institutional Review Board helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. Ordained 1n 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As the weapon for his war on intolerance he chose the pen, and wages his "battle" in the guise of the Congregation's official online blog, The Path, of which he is both author and editor. "The Path" offers a vehicle for commentary and guidance concerning one's own personal, spiritual, path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He currently resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as a chaplain at the regional medical center.

Feel free to contact Pastor Tony:  tolerantpastor@gmail.com