Just Because We Can? (Updated from 6/5/2016)

“Let us redefine progress to mean that just because we can do a thing, it does not necessarily mean we must do that thing.”

-- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

There comes a time when we all must do that which we know is right.  The priest, politician, doctor, teacher, philosopher, parent, and the least of us will have to stand for righteousness instead of ideology. There comes a time when what we say, what we desire, must get behind that which we know to be right in the eyes of God.

I think some people claim to be atheists as an excuse to become perpetually offended at, well, everything.  It seems like they use being an atheist as an excuse; like it's their "get out of jail free card" to act as arrogantly stupid as they'd like.  As an acquaintance at the monastery just stated in a recent comment, "Spewing vitriol is not productive, or Christian."  Not being Christian must give them ample self-approval to spew away?  Those deists, who can't use atheism as their excuse, instead find a way to misinterpret scripture to excuse their poor societal behavior.

Worse, are all these folks acting like the rest of us really buy into their drivel and see them for something more important than just another group of complaining, offended little bitches.   Well, they might be right. More and more of us seem to be acquiescing to their whining.  The problem is the lawyers, politicians, and judges forcing us to buy into it.  They make us listen to their constant mindless bullshit until we've become numb.  Like a baby screaming throughout the night, we finally have to block them out or shove a pacifier in their mouth to shut them up.  They have literally beaten those of us with any sense into submission.  Our only tenuous grasp left on reality is gifted us with the realization the offended seem satisfied sucking the pacifier, without much complaint that it isn't a real nipple.  It gives the rest of us much satisfaction knowing they suck

.

Fortunately, I happen to know a few atheists,

 and they don't act out like this.  They have cogent arguments for their beliefs and don't feel it necessary to stir a pot that doesn't need stirring.  I think most atheists believe in a policy of, live and let live.  It is the constantly offended few whose motives are in question, even if they seem to suck.

If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed.

-- Adolf Hitler

(Yeah, I know, right?  I also thought the liberals had thought this up.  Turned out it was Adolf Hitler)

The offended also keep bringing American slavery to the table along with historic Native American atrocities, and the treatment of American Japanese during WWII when they were rounded up, lost their businesses and homes, and were sent to desert internment camps for the duration of the conflict.  Presenting any of these for reasonable discussion would seem pointless, as most young people today aren't taught true history and have no point of reference for the offense they claim to be offended by.  Most young people other young people are presenting the "offense" to, also have not been taught history, and also have no point of reference.  The point being, none of them were there.  Hell, I wasn't there.  Are these atrocities?  Absolutely!  These are, also, historical facts, if taught historically, without liberal spin which takes them out of context and into the world of dragons and flying carpets.

Maybe it's time for all of us to get a life and be happy, instead of reopening old wounds best left closed for any reason including the real history that isn't being taught. Dredging up this kind of historical offense, for retribution or compensation, accomplishes little except the ability of the perpetually offended to continually drive a wedge between people that weren't even around when the crimes occurred.  Remembering atrocities prevents recurrence, but using them as a tool to further some misplaced agenda benefits no one and fans the flames of societal negativity to the detriment of minorities.

All propaganda has to be popular and has to accommodate itself to the comprehension of the least intelligent of those whom it seeks to reach.

-- Adolf Hitler

(Again, liberals? Nope. Adolf Hitler... again)

We watch as welfare recipients fully capable of labor, languish with more than most of us make and laugh at us behind our backs. Our politicians support this lunacy so they might retain their positions of power; after all, if they promise everything and even deliver a bit, lies will keep them in office because we are all really this gullible.

Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.

-- Ephesians 4:28

As a country, we are forgetting who and what we are. Do black lives really matter more than the least of us? Is one group, or one person, so arrogant as to think they are better or more superior? If we are all laboring, are not all of us laboring? What makes one group or person so arrogant as to feel they are above working alongside the rest of us as productive members of society? Why do any of us support such arrogance?

"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime"

-- Chinese proverb

Our politicians seem hell-bent, thanks to the offended, on revisiting a time not so long ago when brother fought against brother.  The Civil War and World War II offer plenty of historical memory which should not be stored away, destroyed, or removed, in order to present a kinder, gentler face of history.  The fact that radical Islamic terrorism is a holdover from the Nazi Third Reich is a fact not widely known.  We don't teach it, but the atrocities being committed drip with evidence of the seed the Nazis planted, and the support they provided to, anti-Jewish Arabs of the day.  Hitler is laughing his ass off in hell.

How do we, as a twenty-first-century civilization, define progress for our children and grandchildren?  Do we define it by cleaning up the dirty little secrets of history, dooming future generations to revisit mistakes not learned by the young?  Do we define it by the divisive rhetoric taught by our liberal education system as they try, desperately, to control the minds of our youth and prevent individualism and free thinking so a political party can bring about the nightmare of a socialist police state?  Or, do we try to define it by taking a step back, and learning from our mistakes? 

We can hear the constantly offended minority.  And, above this din of whining, we can also hear the morally reasonable majority, and decide, from what we hear, from both sides, whether just because we can do a thing, does it necessarily follow that we must do that thing?  Where will it leave our individual happiness?  Maybe Adolph Hitler was right, after all:

"The day of individual happiness has passed."

-- Adolf Hitler

I'm not going to beat a dying "liberal" horse.  This quote from Hitler, like others, seems to mirror the political sentiments of the day and was becoming an all too real possibility in the United States.  Luckily, "individual happiness" seems to mean more to people than liberal politics.  "Woke" is going back to sleep.  But, it leaves a question for us to ponder: Was this last quote more of a prediction of a genocidal lunatic from the middle of the last century? I wonder.

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. 

I fervently 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

Losing Faith in God (Updated from May 2016)

 

Have you ever thought about why people lose faith in God?  I've heard quite a few of the reasons.  God has abandoned me; God didn't save my child, husband, or parent; I keep asking, God keeps ignoring me; the church is so hypocritical; there is no proof of God, where are the miracles?  Do any of these ring a bell for you?  There are certainly many I have not heard.  Man is very creative when it comes to making up excuses and shifting the blame from where it truly belongs.  My all-time favorite comes from the League of the Perpetually Offended:  "There is no God."  I like this because the atheists put the blame squarely where it belongs - on us. Since you can't blame a God that doesn't exist, I've decided to blame atheists.

“Dear Lord, please don’t let me f**k up."  This statement has become known as Shepard's Prayer. Uttered by astronaut Alan B. Shepard, Jr. during the first human space launch by the United States, Freedom 7, on May 5, 1961.  He was, unselfishly, asking the Lord to help him not screw things up.   He rightfully knew that, if the mission failed, it would be either his fault or the fact that the rocket was built by the lowest bidder; God was not in the equation for anything more than moral support.  If it had blown up on the pad, the next sound after the split-second explosion would have been God saying, "You strapped your dumb ass to a rocket built by the lowest bidder, the odds were not in your favor."  Or, perhaps he just would have shaken his head and muttered, "Even I can't cure stupid."  And the latter is exactly the point.  If we die, for reasons other than natural causes, it can usually be traced back to our own stupidity.  

Even most natural causes can now be tracked back to diet, carcinogens, smoking, or someone else.  In reality, other than truly natural causes, almost everything is our own damned fault, including our ultimate demise, and, yet, we insist on shifting the blame to God.  The targets seem to be always downrange, not on the firing line.

Blaming God for anything is like looking a "gift horse" in the mouth.  God gave us life and a mind.  God gave us everything we would need to survive and prosper, to search, research, examine, question, and become more than what we are.    With all of this came the ability to make choices and deal with the consequences.  If your choice is to blame everything on your creator, to bitch and complain about every--little--thing and blame it all on God's selfishness, who is really the thankless little selfish bitch in the mirror of truth?  If you don't look in that mirror and see yourself looking back, good luck with what awaits you in the hereafter.  Just saying...

Every morning I wake up and say my version of "Shepard's Prayer":  "Dear Lord, please don't let me screw up the day."  I approach each day as an opportunity to enlighten myself about God's wonders.  God gave us a mind to discover the wonders of, well - God.  God wants us to search, investigate, analyze, and question; God wants us to be skeptical - even of God!  

The skeptic which finds truth will have a deeper faith in said truth that a believer who takes it at face value and has no true concept of the whole.  Unless you earn a gift you have no concept of the value of the gift.  Simply reading the owner's manual and having faith that the company hasn't lied to you is "blind" faith.  On the other hand, if you work to research something, work for it, and operate it until you are proficient, you develop a broader understanding of what is expected of you as the owner.  An owner's manual isn't any good if it is incomplete, contradictory, and confusing.  You'll find yourself either afraid to enjoy your gift for fear of getting it all wrong and blowing it up, or you'll blindly depress the button and have faith that you're not the total idiot everybody thinks you are for taking everything on "blind" faith.

But, what is "faith" really?  By definition, faith is a belief in something for which there is little or no proof.  By this definition, both atheists and theists have "faith" that their belief is correct even though neither of them has any evidence to prove their belief is correct.  Well, damn...

Put the instructions away. You know what is expected of you, what God has commanded of you during the old covenant with God.  The two most important of those commandments are stated in Matthew, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, You shall love thy neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."

If you think you've lost faith in God, look first to your own house and ensure you haven't just lost faith in yourself. Mankind has a problem following the easiest of instructions, and God's instructions are very easy to follow; they are so easy, in fact, God gave up the confusing "letter of the law" and gave man the "Spirit" of it in the new covenant with mankind:

“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest.”

-- Jeremiah 31:33-34

How simple are the instructions for mankind?  How simple is it to have real knowledge of "faith"?  Where the old covenant ministers condemnation and death, the new covenant of the Spirit gives life as stated in 2 Corinthians 3:6, "For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life."  Charles Spurgeon wrote a sermon in 1885 that, I think, explains everything nicely:

"I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts." This is one of the most glorious promises that ever fell from the lips of infinite love. God said not, "I will come again, as I came on Sinai, and thunder at them." No, but, "I will come in gentleness and mercy, and find a way into their hearts." He said not, "I will take two great tables of stone, and with my finger write out my law before their eyes." No, but, "I will put my finger upon their hearts, and there will I write my law." He said not, "I will give promises and threatenings that shall be the safeguard of this new covenant;" but, "I will with my Spirit graciously operate upon their minds and their hearts, and so I will sweetly influence them to serve me,—not for reward, nor from any servile motive, but because they know me, and they love me, and they feel it to be their delight to walk in the way of my commandments."

-- C. H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)

If you think you've lost faith in God, have you not truly lost faith in yourself?  If you are searching for God, look first to your heart and your mind before you set off on your quest.  Follow what you find there as you search to validate that which you already know as true.  Validate it, so there will be no question as to your belief, your faith, or of God's never-ending love for you.  In this way, your faith will be a beacon of light, showing a path to those who are lost in darkness.

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. 

I fervently 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 Knowledge, Winning, Creativity, Rules, and Worry

“Because one believes in oneself, one doesn't try to convince others. Because one is content with oneself, one doesn't need others' approval. Because one accepts oneself, the whole world accepts him or her.”

-- Lao Tzu

What is the relationship between knowledge and understanding?

I answered a similar question, not long ago. The answer stays the same.

How can you understand anything if you have knowledge of nothing? To know is to understand. To understand is to move forward. To move forward is to become. To become is the entire point of existence.

How has being a world leader affected the United States?

Have you really been following the exploits of Joe Biden?

Is overthinking the reason you waste time?

Oh, my goodness, no. Overthinking doesn’t take that much time, and I usually catch myself before it gets to that point. My time is usually wasted by other people interrupting me.

What are the most desirable traits to be seen as a confident person?

Confidence. If you don’t bleed this, what’s the point?

Why do some people give advice, whereas others mock the idea? Does it have to do anything with a superiority complex?

No, I think it has to do with their denial that they’re too slow to come up with the advice first. I find this a lot when dealing with the League of the Perpetually Offended. These people are anything but superior, however, they are complex.

“Arrogant men with knowledge make more noise from their mouth than making a sense from their mind.”

-- Amit Kalantri

Is it always wrong to be on the winning side?

Is the “winning side” cheating? This happens more often in politics.

What are the specific school rules about a fight in school so that when I get in one, I can take less blame and minimize the damage on me (for example, don’t hit first)?

They aren’t tolerated. Both sides are equally to blame, regardless. Better thought, don’t get into fights at school. You take a swing, you’re guilty.

What is something that everyone can agree on, even if they don't realize it?

All lives matter.  Well, everyone but the perpetually offended, that is.

Why are important life lessons often the hardest to learn?

Keeping your pecker in your pants is all about willpower, and willpower completely collapses in the face of an attractive woman’s willingness to “roll in the hay.”

What are some things people commonly wish for?

Money or happiness. Or, ol’ what’s her name, down the street.

"May you get all your wishes but one, so you always have something to strive for." 

-- An Irish blessing

Is it ever really possible to let go fully?

Yes! Go through a messy divorce with someone who never loved you.

Is creativity fueled by happiness or sadness?

I’ve been creative in both emotions. Sadness seems to bring out the darkness, whereas happiness brings out the light. Both creations, in their own way, can be excellent. Critics can place art by certain periods in an artist's life.

I've been wanting to ask this question for a long time, what are the weaknesses Human-Beans and how can I destroy them?

I’ve never seen a “human-bean” in all my 69 years. Are they pinto, navy, or kidney human-beans?

How can one find Serenity when the world around them is anything but?

Strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances. Serenity, any other way, is questionable. If you can make the conscious choice to be truly happy in the midst of “anything but” it will be sustainable serenity. 

Are there any disadvantages to making a wish?

The fact that it’s a shot in the dark, might be one.

“Every man has inside himself a parasitic being who is acting not at all to his advantage.”

-- William S. Burroughs

Why do people struggle to adhere to rules?

People are born to be free souls. The rules were set down to give some structure and order to our society. If people wish to live in an orderly society, with all the benefits that come with it, they must adhere to certain rules of conduct. The conflict between “free souls” and the “rule of law” will always give people a moment of pause. This is the price of having a structured society.

Do ultra-rich people think they’re better than everyone else?

Seen as a whole, yes. There are a few that could give a fig.

Why is leading yourself harder than leading a team (group)?

Internal strife. I am always at odds with myself over right and wrong. Leading a team is easier since you always know the goal and how to best get there. Leading yourself is like having two leaders. The team has to report to you, you also have to report to “you” as well as a supervisor, a manager, and an owner. Supervisors, managers, and owners are easy, reporting to yourself can be a bitch because you know what you’re thinking.

What is a word, either positive or negative, that someone has described you with, that you would have never thought of yourself as?

“Sexy.” Be real. Luckily, they weren’t dwelling on my looks, but on my personality. There, with all humility, we are in total agreement.

Do most people work hardest at not working at all?

No. I’ve supervised and managed in the military and the civilian world, and I have seen that most people work hard. And, there is a small fraction of people who simply go along to get along, as well. If you aren’t working, I have no use for you on a team. If you’re going along to simply get along, I have no use for you on a team. If a decision is wrong or dangerous, I need this information. If you see an issue but don’t want to rock the boat, get out and swim.

"You can't have a million-dollar goal with a one-dollar work ethic."

-- Stephen C. Hogan

Why is life harder for some people?

Your life is what you make of it. If some have hard lives, they were never told how to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of their circumstances. If life is not what you want it to be, stop complaining and change it. Why is it we all seem to understand misery, but seem to have issues when it comes to choosing true happiness? This free “choice” is why life is harder.

Do you feel your young adulthood passed you by?

Nope. I was a pain in the ass. Thus, I consider myself “accomplished” as a young adult.

Why do good people want to eradicate loners and freeloaders to zero percent?

Your desire to be a loner is no drag on anyone, it is a personal choice that affects nobody. “Good” people should not wish to do away with anyone who chooses to be left alone. Freeloaders, on the other hand, suck the freedom and hard work out of others trying to make a better life for themselves. Freeloaders, regardless of their excuses, steal from others and are a drag on society.

Freeloader: A person who takes advantage of others' generosity without giving anything in return.

Loner: A person who prefers not to associate with others.

Do you wish for someone to do my dishes for free?

Why would I wish for you to have free dishwashing? No one does mine.

Why would someone tell you not to worry?

We tend to worry about things over which we have no control, Better we should control those things we can and not worry over those things we can’t. It is counterproductive to living life.

“If there is a reason to be sorrowful, then there is a reason to be happy. You have only one lifetime, don't live your life in sorrow! Be happy! Be happy no matter what, and only mind the lessons life teaches each day!”

-- Ernest Agyemang Yeboah

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. 

I fervently 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 Frivolity, Names, Love, Control, and Reason

 

“Be happy when you work, thankful when you earn, cautious when you spend, shrewd when you save, and charitable when you give.”

-- Matshona Dhliwayo

If money was not an issue, what is something that you would spend your money on that may appear to be frivolous to others?

I’d like to sail around the world on an adult-only cruise line in a 1st class cabin. Hot tubs, martinis, spas, massage parlors, top-drawer dining, the whole enchilada. Money isn’t an issue, so neither is time.

How would you fulfill the wish of getting into a multi-million dollar house in 4-6 months?

Entertain a very wealthy woman with the constant sex of a lifetime, and cut that time in half. 

What are some psychological facts about being silent?

You become more attuned to the world around you. You become more relaxed (if you don’t hate silence). It becomes easier to focus on one thing, like a speaker, a teacher, or a meeting. Being silent makes it a lot easier to listen and formulate cogent sentences before you open your pie hole to speak.

I lost all my friends. Was I wrong to complain about how I was being treated by them?

No, and the way they treated you was evidence that they weren’t your friends.

What is the meaning behind making a wish with candles?

Using up the old wax. A wish is a wish. The candles don’t make the wish more than a wish, it’s just a wish using candles unless you’re using the candles to help yourself focus. But, it’s still just a wish.

“If there's a single lesson that life teaches us, it's that wishing doesn't make it so.”

-- Lev Grossman

What obstacles exist to the large-scale use of biogasoline?

Joe Biden and the “never mentioned” carbon footprint of the liberal “green” machine.

What do you think of the name Ria Alanna King? Ria and Alanna are family names does it flow well?

I think it is beautiful. However, having been a kid that was bullied, if she grows into a voluptuous young lady with cleavage and a “rack,” perhaps one might think about R.A.K. as the initials she has to live with. Just saying.

What does it mean when someone comes to me in my dreams?

I usually end up doing laundry in the morning. But, that’s just me. 

What do you love about your life that others might not expect?

I have been accused of being a “closet” love machine. You wouldn’t think of that to look at me, and I never talked about it. It would seem, however, that my “reputation” preceded me, according to the girls. As a “humble” philosopher, it still makes me blush.

Can someone who isn't naturally curious still succeed in life or business?

Sure, if your business has nothing to do with curiosity.

“Study hard what interests you the most in the most undisciplined, irreverent and original manner possible.”

-- Richard Feynmann

Have you ever experienced true love? If not, what's holding you back?

Yes, but, unfortunately, I had to make a decision and let her go. She was deserving of someone closer to her own age.

What are some shocking human psychology facts?

Deviant behavior might fly in the face of “societal norms”, but it is not, necessarily, a bad thing.

When is it okay to give up on somebody?

When they turn their back on you. You can only help those who wish to be helped, otherwise, you’re simply beating your head against the concrete for all the good you try to do. There are plenty of people who are looking for someone who really cares. Maybe, one day, the others will turn back around and be more receptive to some meaningful help.

What is one thing that always inspires you?

Artistic talent, beautiful women, or love. I’m sorry, but one thing doesn’t always inspire me.  I'm a little more complicated than that.

What are the best and worst things about enjoying yourself?

I know what I like, but I’m enjoying it alone.

"No matter what has happened, you too have the power to enjoy yourself."

-- Allen Klein

How has your biggest 'pet peeve' changed over the years?

As I approach the ripe old age of 70, I am becoming more forgiving of idiots, unless they’re driving. Something about an idiot behind the wheel of a killing machine just doesn’t set well with me.

What are the disadvantages of being single-minded?

The number of alternate “choices” is a little thin.

How much control do we have over what we create?

Unless there is a process involved that is arbitrary, or there are rules imposed upon you, you have as much control as you need. It is your creation, after all.

Can we be said to be truly conscious of anything other than our own minds?

I know many people that aren’t even conscious of that.

Why does it seem that the innocent suffer more than the guilty?

Liberal justice. And, to say it seems the innocent suffer, is giving the government too much credit they haven’t earned. Criminals are coddled by the non-existent “rule of law” and the system of “justice” that is supposed to protect the innocent from those same criminals. We need to vote with better intent.

"No matter how strong you are, you don't just fight any fight at all! When you fight a wrong fight, you die a wrong death!" 

-- Ernest Agyemang Yeboah

In what ways can the application of reason help us to better understand reality?

Understanding that reality, when it happens, is the product of “cause and effect” (or reason) is one way.

Why would someone not be taken seriously?

Because their ideas are out in “left field” and not very realistic. That doesn’t mean they aren’t right, however, it just means they need to put more substance, more proof, behind the "pudding" they put out there for consideration. 

Is the idea that the world existed before humans materialistic or idealistic?

I’m hurt that “realistic” isn’t a choice. I don’t consider the other choices very realistic.

What is the purpose of being normal or average?

It gives everyone else a starting point to “rise” above. Without them, we’d never know what was below or above.

What's going on in your brain?

Other than the usual biology? Thought processes are occurring, memories are being cataloged and filed, and, as usual, I am standing at the edge of the abyss staring off into infinity. Just another moment in my humble life.

“Biology gives you a brain. Life turns it into a mind.”

-- Jeffrey Eugenides

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. 

I fervently 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 Cowardice, Distraction, Failure, Lessons, and Hope

 

“The real hero is always a hero by mistake; he dreams of being an honest coward like everybody else.”

-- Umberto Eco

******************************

I haven't paid much attention, lately, to the highest-rated answer I've ever given, so I thought I'd bring everyone up to speed.  As of this morning, it has been viewed 444,600 times and upvoted 5,736 times.  For those interested in reading the post:

Did you ever get a request for a favor from a neighbor who never showed any respect or interest in you or your family? What did you do?

The guy next door. He asked if he could cut down a rotting tree the raccoons use. Wanted to bill me $2000 for a $500 job. I told him not to touch it. He cut it down anyway, when I wasn’t around, then billed me $2000. My legal team, lawyers from Louisiana and Mississippi, both advised me to tell him to go f*** himself. You have to love Southern lawyers. I cleaned the language up and sent him a form letter concerning trespass, ignorance, and the fact that he wouldn’t be getting any money out of me. (Last lines have been updated) We don't talk, not because I'm not willing, but because he seems to think he's all that. He flies a Marine Corps flag. I know my share of Marines. My gun is bigger than his. So far, he leaves me unimpressed. (More updates, as of this posting: We still don't talk. My gun is still bigger.  I'm still not impressed.)

******************************

Is there a book that can teach me how to hide in this world from every responsibility I am committed to?

I’m not aware of any book that teaches cowardice in the face of responsibility. If you don’t want to stand up and take responsibility for things you are committed to, stop committing yourself to them. This is pretty easy. If someone else is committing you a responsibility, tell them to stop. Your life is not theirs to commit. If it is your job, you have the right to quit. There are more rocks to hide under than there are people who won’t accept responsibility for their commitments. Find one.

How do we make sure that our society does not become too individualistic?

Why would any free society wish for this?

How do you stay calm when you lost something (key, credit card, etc.) and you are searching for it?

Getting upset will not make it miraculously appear, so why waste energy better used to remember where the item is? I lose my credit card all the time. I go online to my bank and see where the last charge was made. Bingo! They have my credit card. If I misplace my keys, they have to be in the house, somewhere. I start by looking carefully at the counter surface which is granite. Surfaces like these hide things like keys in plain sight. Lose your cell phone, call it. The point is, getting upset at yourself for misplacing something solves nothing. Learn to not misplace things.

What are the benefits of being active on a social network site?

Imparting or obtaining knowledge.

Why should you make a bucket list? After your death, you’ll never remember it.

A “bucket list” is simply a list of things you’d like to do before you die. Remembering what you’ve done depends on if you believe in life after death. If you don’t, no worries, you can still check off those things you’d like to accomplish before you “don’t” experience the nothing you expect. For the rest of us, the possibility of some latent knowledge of skydiving might make us better skydivers next time around.

“Don't worry, I plan on living a long time."

"Why are you making a bucket list, then?"

"Because if you wait until you're really dying, it's too late.”

-- Gayle Forman

Does being distracted imply that there is something more important to be done?

That depends on if the woman is more important. We are all prone to distraction, but we have to learn to stand on it until the really important work is finished. If she is really worth the effort, she’ll wait.

How are problems solved by asking questions?

The more knowledge you have about the problem, the better equipped you are to solve it.

Why are humans amused by every little thing?

Because the alternative usually sucks. Can you imagine if everyone took all of life that seriously? We would all have frown lines at the ripe old age of eight. No, why we are amused at every little thing is not as important as being amused at every little thing. More of us need to learn to laugh at our own stupidity, while we’re laughing at others.

 Is it better to be feared or respected as a leader? Why?

Respected. Well, the longevity of life would be a big player.

Why does it take 35 minutes or more with only 3 people in front of you at the bank?

The person at the counter has a bigger issue than you, and you got in the wrong line and probably are afraid to get into another. You can do most transactions at the ATM machine if people piss you off. I’m learning to be more patient in lines. I find it a good time to strike up a conversation with the person in front of or behind you.

“Why is patience so important?"

"Because it makes us pay attention.”

-- Paulo Coelho

Is the division in our culture real, or is it a fabrication designed to create a divide?

Everything has some validity, but the larger divide is caused by people fabricating the divide to line their own pockets with cash. Al Sharpton is the “king” of this ploy. Find something that smells like race and take a small misunderstanding and blow it up into another march on Selma so your name stays in people’s minds and the cash keeps on flowing. God forbid he should mirror the likes of Martin Luther King, Jr. and really try to solve the greater issue - he’d be broke, and he knows it. Better he keeps his own people down while going through the motions of raising them up.  Politics, racism, gays, you name the issue, someone is making money off of keeping it alive.

Teachers and administration, who is the cause of mass failure in schools today?

Unions.

How do you encourage people to be less jealous and envious?

It is what it is until it isn’t. If you want to be less jealous and envious, work as hard as the other people probably did to afford what they have. Only you are in charge of your life. If you are disappointed in yourself, make yourself better.

Why am I not getting any better?

At what? Asking questions? Maybe some context would help.

What is your current involvement in the community? Do you volunteer for any local agencies, participate in any events that benefit community members, or belong to any clubs or groups?

I volunteered for three years as Lead Chaplain at a regional medical center. When My dad died in 2019, from his latest stroke, I retired from the chaplaincy to take care of my aging mother. My participation, such as it is, is now limited to purchasing food and supplies for our local baptist soup kitchen, and answering questions put to me on this site.

A patron at our local cigar bar was interested in listening to more of what I was saying and asked where I preached. I spread my arms out and looked down at the bar. She wrinkled her brow and seemed concerned that I had no church. I told her if she wants a church, come outside with me and I’ll talk to her in God’s cathedral. I’m not big on organized religion. Too many hidden agendas. Christ did fine without buildings to preach in.

“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them.”

-- Dalai Lama XIV

Does it make the message more or less trustworthy when the message is appended with a threat that any and all who question it will be targeted for ridicule by powerful people who support the message sender, including peers of the would-be critic?

If you have to back what you say with threats, then the message has some serious issues, as do the send and the “powerful people” supporting them. My answer to this particular threat would be for them to bring it.

How has a life lesson changed your perspective?

Yes. My ex-wife taught me to not trust anyone, even those I love the most.

If age doesn’t determine maturity, how is maturity developed and established?

Age does determine “maturity” where age is being discussed. However, there is, also, being more mature than your years would evidence. A mature adult can act like a child, just as a child might be bright enough to act like a mature adult. Maturity is a matter of doing the right thing. Listening, instead of flapping your pie hole, speaking when you have something intelligent to say, and not “acting out” as a spoiled child might. Children, and adults, are capable of this if brought up in the right way. Adults seem to have a harder time of it, however.

Is it basically a guarantee that every single person one knows will backstab them if given the right opportunity?

No. Some actually have a personal, moral code of personal ethics, that they stand by.

Who in your life was misunderstood as being lazy?

That would be me. But, I simply wasn’t being taught what I wanted to learn. I almost didn’t graduate high school, but college psychology had me hooked. I made a B+ average for two years, then I was drafted and joined Air Force Intelligence for 23 years. The lazy guy? He was made Master Sergeant and was a by-name request for NCOIC of Wing Intelligence.

“I'm a misunderstood genius."

"What's misunderstood?"

"Nobody thinks I'm a genius.”

-- Bill Watterson

What is a secret that no one knows about you?

Well, this is silly. If I told you it wouldn’t be a secret, and I would be very popular.

How is understanding built upon the foundation of knowledge?

How can you understand anything if you have knowledge of nothing? To know is to understand. To understand is to move forward. To move forward is to become. To become is the entire point of existence. 

Why do we need the Saviour and Redeemer?

Hope, the product of an undying faith.

Do you dislike being accused of copying anybody?

I do, so I don’t. If I inadvertently copy someone, they should be flattered that I, also, see the trait as desirable. Even if you do so on purpose, it is the epitome of flattery, and accusations are uncalled for. However, it is so much better to use those traits you see as desirable, and use them to form your own “unique” personality. We are, ultimately, who we choose to be. I choose me. 

If you could develop the character, personality, and image of your own imaginary friend that ONLY YOU could see, hear, interact with, and know existed, would you? I know I would. If you would too - what image comes to mind?

Master Yoda.

"The greatest teacher, failure is."

-- Master Yoda

 

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. 

I fervently 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

A Word From Our Sponsor? (Updated from May, 2016)

“Do not recite words just to prove to yourself and others that you know and love God; for he already put his breath and light inside you. Instead, put truth in your every word and action, and always let your conscience steer and guide you.”

-- Suzy Kassem

There is much truth in what Suzy Kassem says in her quote, above.  It is also in Hebrews 10:16, "...says THE LORD JEHOVAH: I shall put my law into their minds, and I shall write it upon their hearts," and God did this because the written WORD was susceptible to so much misinterpretation due to the ignorance of man.  Man is still ignorant.  Christians might argue this, which would only further evidence the point.  If the WORD of God, as written in biblical scripture, were so straightforward as to not be open to interpretation, why are there so many Christian sects arguing over who is correct and who is practicing the most righteous path to salvation?  This is the very reason God, in His second covenant with man, stated: "...not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts."

You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.  Such confidence we have through Christ before God.  Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.  He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.  Now if the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with glory, so that the Israelites could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of its glory, transitory though it was, will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious?  If the ministry that brought condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness!  For what was glorious has no glory now in comparison with the surpassing glory.

-- 2 Corinthians 3:3-10

So, why is there a Bible, a collection of "Holy Scripture" which God was obviously opposed to having, and felt was unnecessary if the "Spirit of the WORD" was written across the hearts and minds of mankind?  There seems to be some contradiction in the interpretation and argument of all sides.  Let's take a look at a Catholic view:

Protestants claim the Bible is the only rule of faith, meaning that it contains all of the material one needs for theology and that this material is sufficiently clear that one does not need apostolic tradition or the Church’s magisterium (teaching authority) to help one understand it. In the Protestant view, the whole of Christian truth is found within the Bible’s pages. Anything extraneous to the Bible is simply non-authoritative, unnecessary, or wrong—and may well hinder one in coming to God.

Catholics, on the other hand, recognize that the Bible does not endorse this view and that, in fact, it is repudiated in Scripture. The true "rule of faith"—as expressed in the Bible itself—is Scripture plus apostolic tradition, as manifested in the living teaching authority of the Catholic Church, to which were entrusted the oral teachings of Jesus and the apostles, along with the authority to interpret Scripture correctly.

-- Catholic Answers - Scripture and Tradition

That last line is significant.  "The authority to interpret Scripture correctly."  The entire reason God didn't write the second covenant down.  INTERPRETATION.  Man's constant failure.

Having been baptized, endured Catechism, and celebrated my First Communion as a Catholic, I recognize the opinion presented above.  But it wasn't until 1962 that the Second Vatican Council’s document on divine revelation, Dei Verbum (Latin: "The Word of God") determined that clergy, in particular, Catholic clergy, were blessed with the God-given "authority to interpret Scripture correctly."  This would be the same scripture that God felt unnecessary after writing the Spirit of the Word across our hearts and minds.  Basically, the clergy is telling mankind what an omnipotent God seemed incapable of making crystal clear.  Really? "What God really meant to say was..."

The Protestant view that "anything extraneous to the Bible is simply non-authoritative, unnecessary, or wrong—and may well hinder one in coming to God" also has its problems if we understand what this "Holy Scripture" is gleaned from. How Was the Bible Written and Created?, is a link some might find informational in getting a basic understanding of Bible history. Add to this, understanding accepted facts that much of the text was gleaned from bits and pieces of damaged documents and documents translated from numerous languages of the day by monks and scholars that weren't the "brightest bulbs" and didn't understand that languages didn't translate directly, or clearly, into one another. We also have come to understand that some elaboration of the text might have happened due to historical, political, and religious agendas, not to mention the overactive imaginations of celibate monks. So, where does that leave our final interpretation of "Holy Scripture" as a book of faith? Well, I guess, we really have to take it on faith then, don't we?

Matthew Arnold, in the 1800s, tried to make more sense when discussing the alternate view of Catholics and Protestants.  I think he nailed it:  

"Protestantism has the method of Jesus with His secret too much left out of mind: Catholicism has His secret with His method too much left out of mind; neither has His unerring balance, His intuition, His sweet reasonableness. But both have hold of a great truth, and get from it a great power." 

-- Matthew Arnold (1822-1888)

They definitely get from it a "great power" that God never intended them to wield like a sword or hold over the heads of the faithful.

When we add to all of this the "tenor" of remarks in scripture, which seem to reflect more the attitudes and agenda of the age in which these books were written, translated, and chosen, than those attitudes of the holy Prophet we have come to revere, we are left with unquestionable faith in God's decision to not give mankind written scripture to muck up and misinterpret. Yes, we are left with unquestionable evidence that we are truly stupid and foolish, and God has chosen not to cure it. God expects us to wake up and heal ourselves? 

Looking at the world, an ass-kicking "second coming" might be in order.

Let me give you an example of Christians being asleep at the wheel.  First, I'll give you an excerpt from an essay, link included, from R.C. Symes (I still haven't found out who he is, so don't ask), then I will follow the excerpt with a "reader comment" responding to another "reader comment" concerning the Symes essay.  I found it all very interesting:

Before we attempt to answer the question whether the Bible was the divine word of God or a man-made myth (only men wrote the Bible – women were viewed as inferior and unworthy), we should first be clear about which Bible we are talking about. Surprisingly, Christian denominations cannot agree on what constitutes inspired Holy Scripture. Is it the Bible of Roman Catholics, Protestants or Orthodox Christians? Roman Catholics claim that the Bible contains 73 canonical (authentic) books, while most Protestants accept only 66 because they reject the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books, and Orthodox Christians accept 76 books. Each denomination claims its Bible is the true word of God. Which one is to be believed?

-- R.C. Symes, "Is the Bible the Word of God or Myth of men?"

"The author, R.C. Symes, is not a Christian, but he knows how to sound convincing when passing himself off as an authority on scripture. 

You can do it too. Stand up straight, lift your chin, and speak rapidly in organized coherent sentences. Doesn't matter what you say, so long as you use a confident voice and a forward-leaning attitude.

Having established a posture of authority, R. C. Symes now tells you that he's right and you're ignorant. End of story. He has his facts together and you don't, so (insert rim-shot here) he must be right. For every question you ask he has an answer. For every answer you give, he has another question.

Symes says Jesus got a prophecy wrong so he must not be God. He gets even blunter a little further down. Jesus made a false prophecy, so he's also a liar. Symes, of course, is right, because Symes has thought this through and he has a disciplined mind and he understands the fundamental truths that you don't pay enough attention to.

Are you starting to get the idea? When you come across arrogant, ignorant tripe like this, stop trying to refute the statements unless you like swimming in quicksand. If the source is not credible, the rest of the blog can be safely disregarded."

I cannot attest to Mr. Syme's credibility.  He does sound convincing as he offers "organized coherent sentences" with commas in appropriate places - the commenting person does not.  Mr. Symes does "establish a posture of authority," and "has his facts together," whereas the commenting people do not.  "For every question you ask he has an answer... Symes, of course, is right, because Symes has thought this through and he has a disciplined mind and he understands the fundamental truths that you don't pay enough attention to."  But, does all this make him right?

At this point in my reading, I had to chuckle.  I found myself thinking that, when you come across arrogant, ignorant tripe like this "comment," from people having no ability to refute the statements being made in an essay, other than to give kudos to the writer for, supposedly, having his ducks lined up, the only thing saving them from going under the quicksand is an undying faith which they seem to lack the intelligence to elaborate on or explain.  Many would find the comments not credible and safely disregard the sources tout de suite.  These are Christians who like swimming in quicksand.  They seem to enjoy going out of their way to admit Symes is right, to the point of complimenting his "disciplined mind" and his understanding of "the fundamental truths" prior to showing their ass by calling his essay arrogant and ignorant after rightfully praising his "rim shot" simply because of their own inability to prevent it by speaking intelligently to the credibility of their own faith and refuting Mr. Symes statements.  As for me, I have no idea if Mr. Symes is correct.  I will let you make your own opinion of the posted comments, including mine.

Perhaps a better tact for these charter members of the League of the Perpetually Offended would be to refute this essay with facts, quotes, and reputable sources of their own.  Showing one's ability to make an organized, coherent, cogent, and convincing argument, and doing so while in control of your emotions, is a great part of the authoritative persona the person recognized in Mr. Symes, yet was too busy showing his ass to emulate.  Just saying.

Personally, I believe God was right.  I am a Christian, to the degree that I believe in Christ and God the Father.  I believe there are certain parts of the scripture that get it right, just as I believe much of it was written, translated, and included by clergy with Godless agendas in mind.  When you read what makes sense, that which reflects what is in your mind and your heart, listen to it.  Pray in the privacy of your own room, not in a church.  Do not judge the servant of another.  Love others as you love yourself, and praise God always.

And, remember, what God wants from us isn't as difficult as many clergies would have us believe.  If you feel God dominates your life, this is a good thing.  If you feel the church dominates your life, not so much.  Give credence to what God wrote across your heart and your mind, not that which is written down.  I also believe, with all my heart, you must question everything and everyone.  Belief is something earned by learning the truth of a thing; the truth will set you free.  God wants us to have faith, but God does not want us to be blind to the truth.  Satan is the great deceiver.  Evil will build cathedrals instead of feeding the poor.  Evil will live in luxury instead of giving everything to the poor and following the teachings of Christ.  Evil will use the Bible as an "instrument of God" without truly understanding the simple "spirit of the WORD of God" which man, with all misplaced vanity, has dared to try and reinterpret - again, and again.

Remember, also, God put the WORD in our hearts and minds so there would be no misinterpretation of meaning and intent.  We know what is right and wrong, so always choose right.

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. 

I fervently 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