Questioning Love, Life, Thyself, Thought, and Fear

 

“Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.”

-- Carl Gustav

Can you have both self-love and love for others?

If you can’t truly love yourself, how do you expect to truly love others?

Is someone completely responsible for their success? Why are outcomes so different for people? Do you need to be born wealthy to be successful? Is being wealthy successful?

First of all, success in life is being truly happy. What you are discussing is attaining goals. In order to attain anything, you must make the right decisions and choices. If anything is handed to us on a proverbial silver platter, we won’t appreciate it as much as we would if we had to work our ass off for it.

Being handed wealth is only sustainable if you were made to work for the wealth you were handed. Basically, if you don’t know how to sustain the wealth you’re given, you won’t have the wealth very long. Being wealthy can be a blessing, a curse, or both.

Better we should make the personal choice to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of our circumstances.

Why would a person not be self-aware?

A coma? 

What are some good and some bad things associated with the number 3?

Three people in the same bed can be good… or bad. A romantic date should never include a third wheel. Have a “wingman,” not “wingmen,” when out on the town. Meals should have at least three courses. Decisions should have at least three choices - this, that, or the other. Coming in “third” at least gets you the bronze medal, which is so much better than a “participation” award. 

Which religious teaching brings peace of mind?

It is more of a philosophy of life, but Zen or Taoism always brings me peace. 

"Much of the philosophy of religious education has been based upon a false premise, and perhaps many have missed the essence of Christian experience, having had religious training take its place." 

-- Billy Graham

When you realize you can't afford life, how did you deal with it?

I laughed, and then I redefined my life. I downsized, got out from under debt, learned to live within my means, and also learned to be truly happy with less. This is how I discovered to choose happiness over misery. Now I strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of my circumstances. I stay out of debt, live a simple and humble life, and have learned to be truly happy with what this humble life brings me.

Is it possible to love yourself and not others?

Yeah, but it’s awfully selfish and conceited. 

How true is it that the six basic fears become translated into a state of worry through indecision?

It won’t take six fears to create a state of worry due to indecision. The simple fear of not being able to decide whether to have protected sex should create that state for most smart people. The fear of breaking the law. The fear of being caught by the husband while having the sex of a lifetime with his wife. Any “fear” of bad consequences should make someone think twice about what they’re thinking of doing. I only know of one basic fear, and that one’s called - fear. It sounds like someone is making this more complicated than it has to be.

What is the most important tool a human being has?

Desire. 

Isn't it the thought that selfishness is a bad thing still out of selfishness? 

Only if you do it for some reward other than simply choosing to be selfless. Being selfless is its own reward. If it is selfish to feel good about doing good, without anybody knowing you’re doing it, there is something wrong. If you do it so others notice, that would be selfish. 

“The world says: "You have needs -- satisfy them. You have as much right as the rich and the mighty. Don't hesitate to satisfy your needs; indeed, expand your needs and demand more." This is the worldly doctrine of today. And they believe that this is freedom. The result for the rich is isolation and suicide, for the poor, envy and murder.”

-- Fyodor Dostoyevsky

What is winning?

Attaining a goal.

Are you proud of your intelligence level?

I could have done better, but I rated top 10% in the Air Force which garnered me a slot with the Intelligence Division. I think it had to do with me finding fault with a couple of questions on an exam. I’m not really that intelligent, but I seem to be that smart. I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed, but it is amazing what you can accomplish with a dull plastic butter knife from McDonald’s. 

What is the philosophy of finding thyself?

Looking. 

How do I become less self-critical?

Stop performing introspection. I critique myself all the time, but you have to take what you learn as a “learning” experience. If you use it to berate yourself you will never move forward as anything more than a bundle of nerves. Critique, learn, and move on. Try not to make the same mistakes more than twice.

What is an uncertain future?

I’m not certain.

"To be hopeful means to be uncertain about the future, to be tender toward possibilities, to be dedicated to change all the way down to the bottom of your heart."

-- Rebecca Solnit

What is something that "holds its value" really well?

Gold.

How do you increase the impact of your ideas?

Be very right before you open your pie hole, and then be able to prove it. Ideas only have a true impact if they are correct. But, one “aw shit” has the ability to set you back to the beginning.

What is more powerful than power and glory?

Knowledge.

Why is it important to think?

“Cogito ergo sum.” — René Descartes

“I think therefore I am.” If you don’t think, what are you, 1st base? In a coma? The mere process of thinking defines you as a living entity and one capable of thought. Just being alive does not define you to yourself. The ability to think, however, does.

What are the problems that we need as humans to solve for a better life?

We don’t “need” any more problems as humans. What we need are more solutions.

"Sometimes the easiest way to solve a problem is to stop participating in the problem."

-- Albert Einstein

Do you consider yourself to be normal? Why or why not?

I consider myself a deviant and a self-proclaimed hypocrite, but I am humble to a fault.

Author comment:  Sounds kinda honest, and illustrative to the point. Thanks. Can I ask you who's norms you deviate from? Just curious.

My reply:  I majored in Psychology before I joined Air Force Intelligence. I took a course called “The Psychology of Deviant Behavior.” I had no idea people were studying me. 

I want to become a moral person. What is a good book that will make me a proper moral person?

Start with the “Tao Te Ching” by Lao Tsu. 

Let's say I used to enjoy learning a skill but after an incident where someone decided to make fun of it. Now, I'm learning out of spite and not enjoying it, constantly doubting myself. How do I regain the enjoyment I once had?

Learn to ignore dumbasses who poke fun due to their own psychological shortcomings. People say hurtful shit because they, themselves, are wanting. Rise above them.

If you could ask only one question of a person you perceive to be successful, what would it be, and how should you ask it?

Look them straight in the eye and ask, “How can a person be so exceptional?”

Are humans meant to encounter all the six basic fears?

Unless you absolutely don’t really give a shit, or you’re a walking slab of concrete, I’d say you’re going to give each one their due, sometime in life.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

-- Marianne Williamson

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, finally, a senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Western 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 the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

 

Questioning Quality, Income, Truth, Loss, and Skill

 

“Corruption ultimately guilts the corrupt, and it hardens the innocent who suffers as a result of it. It isn't the young who corrupt the old, rather it's the inverse. The aim of the old should be to ensure that the young grow up incorruptible.”

-- Justin K. McFarlane Beau

What does it mean to struggle with validation?

I’m not so sure I need someone to validate that I’m struggling. I wouldn’t say I’m struggling if I’m not, therefore, if I am, I have validated for myself that I’m struggling. Whether someone else validates it, or not, is of no consequence to me since I’m the one struggling.  But, since I'm not struggling, the question of needing validation is a moot point.

Why do we call things that are well-made fine or good quality items?

Because they’re well-made.

Is work fun when you don’t need the money?

Work is fun when I do need the money, as well. If you’re not doing what you love, why are you doing it? Hard work is like all-night sex. Always find a reason to love what you do.

Why isn’t everyone a leader?

Because a leader requires followers.  

Who came up with the term “know thy self”?

“The Ancient Greek aphorism "know thyself" is the first of three Delphic maxims inscribed in the forecourt of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi according to the Greek writer Pausanias (10.24.1). The two maxims that follow "know thyself" were "nothing to excess" and "certainty brings insanity".” 

-- Wikipedia

All the problems of income measurements are a result of an arbitrarily determined short period of time. Everything comes right in the end but by then it is too late to matter. Why?

We work to make things easier for our children when they take over, yet, we want them to learn the value of hard work and make their own way so we will our fortune to animal shelters. We make little sense while we try to make sense.

What would an advanced alien species think of Earth?

If they were that smart, they’d flush the toilet.

How can I embrace probabilistic thinking?

Become logical in determining the likelihood of any outcome. This shouldn’t be hard to embrace, as anything else is simply a crapshoot.

Why should you avoid conflicts at work?

Conflict is counterproductive. 

Is failing at something hard always better than winning at something easy?

You learn nothing by winning at something easy. You learn volumes by failing at something hard. Since life is all about learning, it makes perfect sense that life deals us lemons.

“You must make a decision that you are going to move on. It won't happen automatically. You will have to rise up and say, ‘I don’t care how hard this is, I don’t care how disappointed I am, I’m not going to let this get the best of me. I’m moving on with my life.”

-- Joel Osteen

Who invented happiness quotes?

Truly happy people.

Can time make things better or worse?

It is situational. If you plant a garden, time will grow the vegetables. However, if the vegetables aren’t harvested, time will rot the harvest in the garden. Given even more time, the rotting vegetables will provide nutrients to the soil and provide even better vegetables.

Can truth become so powerful that it can defeat lies?

Truth is that powerful, and it will, sooner or later, win out over lies.

Does winning money change people for the better or worse?

They haven’t worked hard to earn it, so it really has no value for them. People who win lotteries tend to burn through the cash in short order.

Why must it be a man that will spend money to start a relationship and also spend money even at the end of the relationship?

We are from Mars. No one ever accused Martians of being smart. 

"I worry that some politicians still think we are living in the 1950s where the man is the main breadwinner and the woman works for pin money. Actually, most families where there are two parents depend on two incomes to get by."

-- Frances OGrady

Is failing at something hard always better than winning at something easy?

You learn nothing by winning at something easy. You learn volumes by failing at something hard. Since life is all about learning, it makes perfect sense that life deals us lemons.

What is the most important decision a government can make?

To go to war.

What can you have that doesn’t cost money?

True happiness! It is a choice for your life, so it cost you nothing to choose to be happy always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances.

Can you not lose what you never had?

Think about it. If you don’t have it, how can you lose it? Is this another trick question?

How can one practice being true to themselves?

Develop a personal moral code of ethics you can stand behind come hell or high water. A good code of ethics defines who and why you are to all those around you. If you stand behind it, even when it may be unpopular, you are being true to yourself. People will see this and, even if they don’t agree, you will earn their respect.

“Your perceptions are derived from your feelings and your ability to be yourself, to own and trust yourself, and to say what you feel, even when it may be diametrically opposed to everyone eles's opinion. You may be called the Devil Incarnate. You may feel like cow pies are being thrown at you. Sometimes that is part of being true to yourself.”

-- Barbara Marciniak

Do you know how to disappear if you really wanted to?

How to “disappear” was a pastime for the folks in the intelligence division. I have almost 23 years of ideas to draw from.

What problems do highly educated people have difficulty solving that less educated people solve easily?

Balancing a checkbook and paying the bills is my experience with them.

How can we become anything we want as we don't get an equal opportunity in life?

Change your circumstances. Go where you will be offered equal opportunity. You may not get what you want, but you will be so much happier with the prospects. Whatever you do, don’t ever let anybody shit on your dreams. Only you can do that.

What is that skill you would really like to try again?

Marriage, but I can wait till the next life.

Do you agree with the statement “making the decisions on one basis and justifying them on another is not ethically”? 

Yes, and I think the word should be “ethical” not “ethically.” But, this is so “politics at work” decision-making. How do you make a decision for one reason, but excuse, I’m sorry, “justify” it for another reason? The two reasons had better have something to do with one another or the ethics of the decision-maker it is in question. This is why we should keep politics out of war. We are told to take a hill, so we take it at great cost to life and limb. Then, the politicians, through bad decision-making, give the hill back to the enemy. Their “reasoning” sucks. Taking the hill for one reason, then giving it back for another is another case of unethical decision-making, different but the same.

“Most people use the terms morality and ethics interchangeably. Technically, morality refers to the actual content of right and wrong, and ethics refers to the process of determining right and wrong. In other words, morality deals with moral knowledge and ethics with moral reasoning.”

-- Scott B. Rae

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, finally, a senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Western 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 the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Questioning Value, Impulses, Purpose, and Wit

What are the 5 essential steps you can do to become a person of value?

Love yourself. Be truly happy always and in all things. Be selfless in all you do. Have a good personal code of ethics you stand by. Be a light in the darkness.

No one can give your life value, except you. You have to love yourself before you can truly love others. You have to be truly happy in order to make others happy. You have to be selfless in everything, wanting nothing in return for what you give, but not to the point of being used. 

Stand by your good, moral, personal code of ethics, as it defines who and why you are to those around you. And, be the light of wisdom, faith, and hope, for those who are struggling with theirs, or have lost all.

What creates self-growth?

Anything you do to move forward down your path. Knowledge, work, mentoring, selfless giving, and the like, are all contributors to self-growth, and to self-worth.

What is the reward for hard work?

This is monetarily situational. However, for those of us old enough to remember how we were brought up, “Hard work is its own reward.” As I approach 70 years of age, I still look forward to some day-long mindless yardwork. There is something about breaking a sweat that is satisfying to me.

Do you believe that if you do not know yourself, and know yourself very well, you will make wrong decisions in life? Is knowing yourself ever a final thing? How do you relate to people who seem not to know themselves? Or doesn't it matter?

I think knowing yourself is crucial to finding true happiness. You have to know yourself to love yourself, and you can’t truly love others if you don’t love yourself. I’m finding new things about myself all the time, so knowing is not final.

I smile when I meet people who don’t know themselves. They wear their mask, like baggy underwear, uncomfortable and always being adjusted. I simply smile and take them under my wing, peeling back the layers of reality until I find them and they state, “I did not know that about myself.”

Author's comment: Grand! I’m interested in that same thing you refer to. The difference, and the interaction, between a person who is a constant student of himself and the person who knows little about himself. I believe that a person who knows himself would never be anything but his genuine self if he could help it.

What is your definition of success? Do you believe you will become successful? Why or why not?

True happiness. It isn’t something you can find. It is a choice all of us must make for our lives. Because it is a conscious choice, it is sustainable. I strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of my circumstances. To feel any other way is simply not constructive to a full life.

“Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.”

-- Winston S. Churchill

What are some of the evidence of success that begins in the form of thought impulses?

If you attain anything, other than someone dropping millions of dollars in your lap, the goal you attained started out as a thought. If you consider what you’ve attained as “success” then you must have had the thought in mind.

Has today added anything of value to your stock of knowledge or state of mind? Can you share?

The coffee needs another scoop of grounds in order to taste more robust, and the “tighty-whities” I wore to bed became baggy overnight. Both, are valuable knowledge. 

Why don't we know who can help us?

Because we don’t pay attention. Truth be known, the only one who can help us is us. Others can offer us their opinions and information, but it is up to us to accept what they say and put it into action.

How important is it to believe in personal success?

Success is happiness in life. As such, it is very important to one’s personal mental wellbeing. Attaining any other goal is simply counterproductive to a happy life. 

Are there some jobs that can pay me without doing anything?

Have you ever tried not doing anything? Imagine yourself as “third base” and ask yourself how long you can just lay there. I consider doing absolutely nothing a job I wouldn’t want, besides the fact that no one will pay you for doing nothing unless they're a total idiot with nothing but money to throw away on “third base” just being there.  Go on the welfare rolls.  They'll pay you for doing absolutely nothing but being a dreg on society as you suck from the public teat you put absolutely nothing into.

“I don't believe anything's really inevitable until it happens. We just call it inevitable to make ourselves feel better about it, to excuse ourselves for not having done anything.”

-- Lauren Willig

 Did the term “never give up” ever seem like something that makes people stubborn?

Absolutely. But, the only thing wrong with stubbornness is if you let it rule your life. I know many people who take their stubbornness in stride, but they also know when to let it go. 

How can one shut down the flow of negative impulses?

I’ve tried this, and the best I can do is put dampening fields up. I feel the impulse and try to get on top of it before I put my mouth in motion. With the unbelievable number of dumbasses out there, this becomes a full-time activity. I am significantly proud of myself, though.

What do you think you can do great things in one minute? Just 60 seconds? Do you think that is possible?

If you can hug a person who really needs a hug, then yes. 

What is not always good?

Pasta. As a Sicilian, it really takes talent to get the pasta and the sauce just right. One secret is to make the sauce at least a day ahead and let it sit in the fridge so the flavors can mellow. This is especially true if using ground red pepper. The heat will significantly mellow overnight. I jokingly tell people to make their sauce ahead of time and let the ingredients in it “rot” overnight. This is a good idea for any rich food.

What are some things that "made all the difference"?

Love, sex, chocolate chip ice cream, triple chocolate cake, sex, women with great legs and stiletto high heels, quiet time by a country stream, wildflowers, sex, and so much more. Did I mention sex?

“Do more than belong: participate. Do more than care: help. Do more than believe: practice. Do more than be fair: be kind. Do more than forgive: forget. Do more than dream: work.”

-- William Arthur Ward

What are the critical upsides to embracing the difficulty of your purpose?

There are critical upsides? For one thing, I have no difficulty embracing my purpose. It is what it is until it isn’t. The critical downside, however, is allowing any unwanted drama to fog your mind. Keep any drama from your life and choose to strive for true happiness always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances or perceived “difficulty” of your purpose.

Is greatness, by definition, out of reach for the vast majority of us, or is it just that so few people truly pursue it?

I think few people truly pursue it. I know that I never had any intention of pursuing greatness. If it happened, so be it, but I had no intention of going out of my way for it. With greatness comes great responsibility, and I had enough of that in my life.

Can you realistically evaluate yourself?

I hope so, or I’m not half the man I think I am.

How can you determine what, when, how, and where your next huge experience is going to emerge from?

If it’s that “huge” then I must desire the experience. If I desire it, then I must know when, where, and how, it will occur. If I don’t, then it is a surprise, which negates any determination on my part.

How do you manage to sustain courage and a positive mind in challenging circumstances?

Military training. You learn to set fear aside and summon up the courage to persevere in the face of overwhelming odds.

“In paying attention to our wellbeing, we address the needs of our environment - the society that we live in and our planet. Sustainability depends on community - when we learn to be happily reliant on each other, we're less likely to turn to material consumption to meet our emotional needs.”

-- Louisa Thomsen Brits

Do I really need to prove somebody something about who I am all the time?

Only if you feel that unsure of yourself. Personally, I am who I am, and if people don’t like me it is their loss. There is nothing I can do for them. I have nothing to prove about who I am, to anyone, and certainly not all the time. Only the “League of the Perpetually Offended” would ever think I should, and I totally ignore them.

Why do you find a practice you enjoy (or imagine you might enjoy)?

Uh… because I enjoy it. Is this another one of those trick questions?

What influenced your success?

Life’s success is based on true happiness, not on attaining goals. True happiness is a choice. I strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of my circumstances. So, it follows that true happiness influenced my successful life.

Can a person survive with wit or money?

A lot of “comedians” are living paycheck to paycheck, so a snappy wit doesn’t seem to cut it.

Does it make you smart when you start focusing on the very important thing that someone told you to focus on?

I’d be smart if I were to be focussing on the “very important thing” before I was told to. This sounds like something an "intelligent" person would have to be told.

“Talent is intelligent, brilliance is clever, genius is wise.”

-- Matshona Dhliwayo

 

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, finally, a senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Western 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 the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Is the Test You, or Is It for You? (Updated post from 7/8/14)

"This is your moment of test of your faith. You're not a victim of circumstance but a winner of predicaments. Don't lose hope. Hold onto your faith and trust in God."

-- Ritu Ghatourey

Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19), has always been appalling to me.  That an all-knowing, omnipotent being would contrive such a test for which, being all-knowing, the outcome would only prove what God already knows, seems to me as cruel and pointless.  God even admits that the test proves Abraham's fear of God, which is seen as appropriate by this God of his.  Why are we meant to fear a "loving" God, especially one who already knows what is in our hearts?  Sometimes I wonder if God isn't doing a "taste test" to ensure the recipe turned out as planned.  The thought doesn't make sense, though, if God is perfect so is the recipe, right?   

Is God testing you, or are you the test for someone else?  Is being the test for someone else also a test for you?  God's 'twofer special' to see if you realize you are the test and if you're up to the challenge.  We are all on a path of discovery and, with every experience, we learn more about life that we can pass on to others.  Each of us is a mentor, a minister, a shepherd, and a pastor to each other.  One of the first tests is to realize this truth, the next test is how you put the truth into practice.

“Those who are determined to be ‘offended’ will discover a provocation somewhere. We cannot possibly adjust enough to please the fanatics, and it is degrading to make the attempt.”

-- Christopher Hitchens

Someone's judgment of your righteousness is, also, a judgment of their own.  Where you see judgment for something, you might be better served to find the lesson in the something and show others the error in judging.  You can try to explain it to them, but words rarely sway the ego, especially for those perpetually offended.  It is very easy to judge others, but there is a fine line one must walk in order to have an opinion and not judge others for their opinion.

Our varied opinions on morality are an obvious test for each of us.  Our view of morality can be the impetus for disagreement and can, very often, create a negative judgment about us.  I find this happens most often with "hot button" topics, like... abortion.  Can both sides of this debate, pro-life and pro-choice, equally offend each other?  I've had problems understanding how.  Pro-life stands to defend the right of women to choose what happens with their bodies, while pro-life stands to defend unborn children from being murdered in the womb.  Two totally different arguments, right?  I see one as a choice, while the other is a moral imperative.  Murder becomes easier with each life you take.

“I've noticed that everyone who is for abortion has already been born.”

-- Ronald Reagan

I try not to judge.  I am a self-proclaimed hypocrite in that I am perpetually offended by the League of the Perpetually Offended.  I am especially offended by those who are offended that I take exception to any excuse they can drum up for the murder of innocent life.  Yet, we are all a party to this when we allow the government to define, with questionable science, when life begins and when it is deemed appropriate under the law to approve the slaughter of innocent life which doesn't meet their poor definition of when life begins, or whether it should be allowed to continue.  This very definition, of when life begins, is now a test for each state to decide, and a serious test of our civilization.  Even science can't agree on the definition of life, as it seems to change constantly.  What do we say to those innocent we allowed to be slaughtered under a previous ruling?  Sorry about that?  A sorry comment for mankind's "Holocaust" of our children.

The Health and welfare of the woman is one thing, but unwanted pregnancy can now be terminated at the onset.  We no longer have an excuse to wait until just before our definition of when life exists before we opt for murder in lieu of immediate termination.  It seems just as easy for a doctor to do harm one way as the other, providing a doctor is even involved.  Why don't we just elect an executioner to snap its little innocent neck as it emerges, instead of laying the child on a cold, steel table until the option of murder is decided?  Yes, this happens.

“It is a poverty to decide that a child must die so that you may live as you wish.”

-- Mother Teresa of Calcutta

I see no reason why people who abhor abortion of the innocent should be forced to pay their tax dollars to support the insanity behind it.  Forced payment amounts to forced immorality.  Fyodor Dostoevsky once wrote, "The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons."  I offer that the true degree of civilization can be judged by how we treat the least of us, our at-risk populations.  For the most part, we don't even acknowledge them, unless we have to, and, even then, we'd rather not.  It seems there is a faction of mankind who would sell their souls for faux peace and serenity rather than waste any effort to protect those unable to protect themselves.  This very lack of humanity seems to be evidence of the waste of "humanity" which we seem to have become.  I don't see this as judgment as much as it seems to be a sad fact. 

I try not to argue with the perpetually offended about any issue, much less moral ones, because, well, they are going to be offended regardless, and perpetually.  These are people who might firmly believe Hitler's Holocaust never happened; the historical evidence, firsthand accounts, and photos are all a fraud perpetrated by... it really doesn't matter who, because it happened, and that offends them, which is all they care about.  If they could change history, they would.  If they could kill God, they would.  If they could kill everyone who doesn't agree with them, they would.  And then, having offended themselves by killing everyone else and having nobody left to feel offended by, so they could kill, they would start killing themselves.  Make any sense?

“I cannot understand anti-abortion arguments that centre on the sanctity of life. As a species we've fairly comprehensively demonstrated that we don't believe in the sanctity of life. The shrugging acceptance of war, famine, epidemic, pain and life-long poverty shows us that, whatever we tell ourselves, we've made only the most feeble of efforts to really treat human life as sacred.”

-- Caitlin Moran

In the case of abortion, the offended seem to be offended by anyone who would dare limit a woman's ability to make decisions where her own body is concerned.  Oh, I totally agree with them, as long as her decision isn't about murdering another life, one within her, for no sound reason other than, "Oops!  I made another mistake... again. Just can't keep these legs together."  

One question stands out for me if the sex was consensual:  Is this decision for abortion going to be her first test or a perpetual one?  Only she can judge, right?  If she even cares.  Her ability to make a sound judgment would seem to be already in question. 

The only sound reasons I can envision for abortion are rape, the health of the mother, or the health of the child.  Again, rape can be dealt with immediately.  Termination of innocent life due to health concerns for the mother is no fault of either of them and an understandable decision only the mother can make.  As to the health of the child, I will leave that to be answered by the numerous handicapped children who might have been aborted but are so very happy to be alive and bringing joy to the very parents who considered abortion and opted for the innocent life.  Was this their test?  Maybe.  God bless them for making the right call.  We all wait to see what monumental changes their living children can offer the universe.

“If a mother can kill her own child - what is left is for me to kill you and you to kill me - there is nothing between.”

-- Mother Teresa of Calcutta

As well as being a test, our moral beliefs are, most importantly, the personal judgment of ourselves.  How other people judge us for our views on personal morality is of little consequence since we don't answer to those who feel they have the right to judge us.  This concept offends the perpetually offended (no shit) who think they have the right to judge and that we should answer to them for even daring to take their version of "moral" high ground.  I see no problem making good use of this ground, and the test, both of which they will have rejected.

Having said all this, the definition of when life begins is our test.  It should be the purview of civilized science and not those who have the most money, the most to gain, or the most political influence.  It certainly shouldn't be left in the hands of those immoral "intellectual" titans who can't keep their manhood in their pants or wear a condom, or those who can't keep their legs together, can't say no, or can't learn to take a pill.

“More than a decade ago, a Supreme Court decision literally wiped off the books of fifty states statutes protecting the rights of unborn children. Abortion on demand now takes the lives of up to 1.5 million unborn children a year. Human life legislation ending this tragedy will some day pass the Congress, and you and I must never rest until it does. Unless and until it can be proven that the unborn child is not a living entity, then its right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness must be protected.”

-- Ronald Reagan

People have berated me for my stand on abortion, and they can kiss my lily-white ass.  I absolutely own my opinion, without hesitation, so berate away!  I have been called many names, none of them nice, and I can live with those much easier than I can live with the murder of unborn children.  I've seen it, watched it, pushed the bile back down my throat until I couldn't watch it anymore.  I have broad shoulders when it comes to standing up against the immoral murdering of the innocent and, in doing so, it is absolutely certain I will perpetually offend those immoral who find any excuse to allow the butchering of innocence.  I'm as certain this is my test as I am certain that it is also theirs.  Good luck!

"God is testing people so they will know what is in their own hearts."

-- Matt Slick

God knows what is in your heart; knows what you will do and, therefore, knows the outcome of every test. The test is for you, not for God. God wants you to learn what is already known, understand that which is already understood, conclude what is already foregone, and have faith that what is, is... until it isn't.

“Tough times don't define you, they refine you. ‪”

-- Carlos A. Rodriguez

There will always be times of trial; times that stress us to the breaking point, and beyond.  Yet, things seem to work out because, in the end, you are still here to complain about it or be offended over it.  The complaint or offense is evidence that we have missed the point.  Wouldn't it feel better to work through it with faith, hope, and a positive attitude?  Wouldn't it feel better to admit that, once again, at the end of the day, you will still be here to witness your faith in God and God's faith in you?  This will trump all the complaining or doubting one can muster, except for the perpetually offended.  Things will always work out.  Well, again, things will always work out except for the perpetually offended.  For things to work out, you simply have to understand the outcome may not be what you expect, yet.  You need to have faith and hope.

I have faith that those who do evil to others will have karma visit and have evil done unto them, as well.  Everyone will be graded according to their work.  The test of good or evil is a simple one:  Good benefits everyone while evil only benefits those who support and perpetuate it.  It is an unfortunate universal rule of balance, that we must have both good and evil.  There must be balance in the universe. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, in order to maintain this balance.

Each day is a test allowing that allows us to move forward, or backward, on our path through our infinite existence.  Evil, at times, might seem to move you forward faster, but to where, and at what cost to the immortal soul?  We are not intended to travel in circles.  Always do good, and trust in the ultimate power of the universe to guide you on a righteous path.  We know the difference between right and wrong; lying to ourselves is just not constructive for our path and compounds the damage we do to our souls.

"Sometimes God pushes us to our limits...He tests us beyond our endurance, because He has greater FAITH in us than we have in ourselves."

-- Nishan Panwar

While traveling your path, never give up, never surrender, never lose faith, and never feel like you are alone in your trials, your lessons.  Everything is being watched and graded.  In times of strength, give some of that strength to others.  In times of weakness, watch for those who will come to mentor and minister to your needs.  These "ministers" might be friends, family, and even total strangers who might say the one thing you need to hear.  Good and evil take many forms and are not, usually, easy to see.  We need to start seeing good and evil, the angels and demons, for what they are. They may be us.

"When you are going through something hard and wonder where God is...remember, the teacher is always quiet during a test."

-- Anonymous

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, finally, a senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Western 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 the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Well-Thought-Out Answers?

 

“Problems are not roadblocks, but exercise tools.”

-- Debasish Mridha

The well-thought-out:

Why does life seem to hand out a great thing to me, but as soon as I pursue it, life makes it impossible to achieve?

Life is presenting you with a lesson. Ask yourself, why do you “think” life makes the "great thing" impossible to achieve? When it comes right down to it, don't we come up with all kinds of reasons why we can’t achieve opportunities that are presented to us, instead of the real reasons that concern why we won’t?

We blame others for the roadblocks in front of us when, in reality, it simply takes a bit more work on our part. It is too difficult, others won’t let us, it cost too much, we’re too busy, yadda, yadda, yadda. What life presents us is the “golden ring” on the carousel, and, if you really want it, you really have to stretch out to grasp it. But, remember always, it is about the journey, not the destination. Strive to be happy always and in all things as you travel down your path.

Warren Buffet said, "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it." What's a real-life example of this?

O. J. Simpson.

What's the most difficult choice you were asked to make while in school?

Join the military and serve my country, since I was called up to do so, or continue to achieve my psychology degree. It turned out that getting a “master” degree in military science satisfied both. I served for almost 23 years.

Do you value the idea of respect?

Yes, as the basis for understanding, tolerance, and, perhaps, acceptance.

How can simply standing on one leg tell you if your life is in the balance?

It says you have great balance, depending on how long you can stand there. If you only have one leg, it says you need a crutch. Your life, either way, might, or might not be, in balance.

“The speed of modern life is an oppressive thing, and the corporate world is quick to punish those with an honest heart. Qualities such as ‘nice, honest, kind, happy, relaxed, sincere, innocent’ are frowned upon as weaknesses. Yet these values are the essence of a good person. Unfortunately, if you don’t keep the balance, they can be lost like sand through your fingers.”

-- Fennel Hudson

If you no longer believe in anything and begin to doubt everything you know and have learned so far, does this mean freedom for new thinking or vulnerability of mind to be filled with something worse?

Either or both, something better, or all three. Since you no longer believe in yourself, anything goes.

What do you think of the phrase, "True freedom is what you find within yourself."?

If you don’t think you are free, you probably aren’t. The enemy can do much to you as a prisoner of war, but your mind will always be free to think. No one can take this from you unless you let them. Freedom of thought is always there and always yours. It is your freedom of choice to be submissive or to be free of mind. 

As you were having your clinical exposure in the ward of a government hospital, you notice the RNs were not providing nursing care to the patients, as you understood the core values the nurses must have, what do you do?

As a retired “master sergeant” it is incumbent upon me to say something and to report what I see. God help them if I’m the one not getting the nursing care. But, this is exactly why I don’t frequent government hospitals.

What saved you during struggling/hard times?

Faith, hard work, perseverance, belief in myself, and the moral support of family and good friends.

How can one’s initiative and faith bring one to success?

You must have faith in yourself to believe you can attain a goal. You need initiative in order to take the action necessary for attaining your goal. You also need perseverance in order to continue forward toward your goal in the face of overwhelming odds.

Through all of this, you need to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of the circumstances. If you are not truly happy on the journey, you will not be truly happy when you arrive. Always attain those goals that interest you and make you happy to do, or what’s the point? True happiness in life is true success, everything else is just a goal you attain.

“You are essentially who you create yourself to be and all that occurs in your life is the result of your own making.”

-- Stephen Richards

How true is it that people who have strong episodes of anger or depression can still feel a sense of well-being if they have a countervailing set of equally joyous or happy times?

Since my divorce, 20 years ago, I am never depressed anymore. I do experience “spikes” of anger and frustration, however, that last for a second or two until I understand why the person is a dumbass, then I just laugh it off. I am a constant “work in progress” for patience, God bless me.

Would it be possible to be ambitious but also modest in life?

As I approach 70 years of age, I can say I have been so for most of my existence. I have never needed much to be happy, but hard work, a goal to attain, and humble existence.

What is the secret to developing resilient teams and organizations?

One mind, one goal, common-sense rules, robust loyalty and support, and flexible organization.

How can I overcome periods of having a low opinion of myself?

Think more highly of yourself. You are who you are, so revel in yourself. Don’t try to live up to some standard that society or others set for you. If you are doing everything right, then your opinion should reflect this. If you’ve stumbled, this is life simply presenting you with an opportunity to learn. What you do with the opportunity will say much about your opinion of yourself.

Better you should simply choose to be truly happy always and in all things regardless of your real or imagined circumstances. To do anything else is simply counterproductive and simply sucks.

Who quoted “patience is a virtue”?

The Christian church? Patience is one of the “Seven Virtues.”

“Patience is a virtue, but there comes a moment when you must stop being patient and take the day by the throat and shake it. If it fights back; fine. I'd rather end up bloody at the end of the day, than unhurt with no progress made, no knowledge gained. I'd rather have a no, than nothing. I'd forgotten that about myself.”

-- Laurell K Hamilton 

If free media has resulted in widespread misinformation, then what possible solutions exist to remove profit as the primary goal of media?

The primary goal of robust media is truth. The secondary goal should be profit in order to provide the truth. The moment you lose the truth you open the door to failure.

Does mine or anybody else's suffering matter?

It matters greatly to those who truly care.

I have a big vision but I don't have any of the materials to execute it, please what can I do?

Work hard to earn the money to purchase the materials, or find an investor willing to throw money at someone who isn’t working hard to purchase the materials. You need to put your best foot forward if you expect investors, or anyone, to pay attention.

How will curiosity move us forward and give us knowledge?

Knowledge is the product of curiosity. We don’t move at all unless there is new knowledge from our curiosity.

Why do you break big goals into bite-sized pieces?

Big goals are usually comprised of smaller goals that need to be attained in order to move forward to the larger prize.

And... the not-so-well-thought-out:  

Are humans motivated by long-term rewards?

Not if she’s willing.

What got your hopes up but failed to come true?

I cannot remember her name.

What keeps your integrity intact?

Lack of immoral fortitude.

What is not a good measure of success?

Knotches on a bedpost.

What if you are the last hope for humanity?

We are so screwed.

“How can you make an informed decision about whether to save the world if you never leave your tiny part of it?”

-- Shaun David Hutchinson

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, finally, a senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, Western 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 the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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