Questioning Who, Why, What, When, How, and Because

 

“Make sure your worst enemy is not living between your own two ears...”

-- Nitya Prakash

 

What does it really mean when you have a terrible thing that troubles you and then you get to hear "that person is you"? I am not that person at all, so why are they saying that?

Who lets it trouble you? We let people bring drama into our life. We could, simply, deny the package and keep drama from our doorstep. What I think they’re saying, is that you let the drama in, that “terrible” thing, and now it troubles you. Better for you to keep unwanted drama out of your life, so you are not troubled by it.

Is software engineering worth pursuing even if I’m not passionate about it?

It pays well, but is it worth the loss of being happy in your work?

Am I wrong to sarcastically reply to what I think are stupid questions on Quora? Should I make an effort to discern the asker's sincerity?

There are no stupid questions unless they intentionally make them stupid. The League of the Perpetually Offended asks intentionally stupid questions in an attempt to bait people to answer them. I’ve run across questions that actually answer themselves. I might ask the author if they’re “trick” questions, but, they aren’t “stupid” questions, they simply don’t realize the answer is in the question.

What are the speaker-audience relationships?

The speaker imparts knowledge. The audience comes to learn. 

What is my responsibility to society and/or humanity? What prevents most people from upholding that responsibility?

Your “responsibility” is your belief. I believe in a free society that operates under the rule of law. Therefore, I choose to live in the United States. My choice comes with a price, however. It is my responsibility, by choice, to ensure the freedoms I enjoy are secure. To this end, I volunteered for military service. To this end, I vote. But, my responsibility does not end there. If this country is ever attacked, it is my responsibility to take up arms against the oppressor, foreign or domestic, to ensure our freedoms continue to be secure.

"The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure."

-- Thomas Jefferson

Why is it that when things go their way, they mock those who try?

A false sense of ego. Just because it goes their way doesn’t mean they earned it.

I can analyze perfectly other people’s behavior after I get used to them. How do I deepen my skills to go beyond what is expected? What is beyond that?

Study psychology, or get into the intelligence or law enforcement fields. What is beyond that is interrogation, manipulation, torture, and control. Not for the faint of heart.

Why are only regrets and not successes associated with the deathbed?

Most people leave things unsaid or undone in life.

What simple things can cause you to grow bored with your relationship? What can you do to mend that boredom?

Lack of communication. Not meaning to be a smart ass, but… communicate more. I mean, really, if you’re not getting enough intimate contact, go to bed and screw like rabbits. If you married the wrong person, maybe you should find the right one. Once you know the cause, fix it.

What are the effects of living modesty?

Not spending money that is better saved.

“One must learn to be simple, anyone can manage to be complex.”

-- Amit Kalantri

I feel like a complete and utter failure. What can be done about this?

Failure is an opportunity to learn, regardless of age. Find out why you failed. And, don’t ever forget that you failed, not someone else. Life is all about choices and decisions, and you have, obviously, made some poor ones. Critique your failure, learn why you failed, try to correct the failure or, at least, use what you learned to mitigate the failure from happening again. It isn’t that you failed, we all fail. It’s what you do with the failure that matters most.

How are the values of mercy, fairness, kindness, and compassion related?

They are all morally good ethical behaviors included in good personal codes. 

What is the best advice, you can give to a 25-year-old person?

Life is full of lessons. You can learn or you can fail. If you fail, find out why you failed and try again, and again, and so on, until you learn. Failure is the best way we learn, so don’t waste the opportunity life gives you. Some people aren’t that lucky to know about failure and its benefits. When they eventually fail, and they will, they will fall hard, having never failed in life. 

How can someone become a better person in life and work?

Choose to be truly happy, always, and in all things, regardless of your circumstances. 

I have achieved nothing yet. Does that mean I'm a failure?

No, it means you’ve achieved nothing... yet. But, I find this hard to believe, that nobody has friends, family, a job, responsibility, you know, achievements. No one is a true failure until they have given up. But, wait! You asked a question, so… you haven’t quite given up... yet.

"Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail." 

-- Confucius

Does God still love us even if we disobey him?

God will be disappointed, but will still love us. Punishment hurts both.

How come I'm full of intelligent ideas and advice when it has to do with other people's problems but when I'm faced with my own challenges, I end up making terrible mistakes without any show of intelligence? What's actually wrong with me?

Do as I say, not as I do. You’re basically a hypocrite. You give others this great advice but have taken none for yourself. I am, also, a "self-proclaimed" hypocrite. The difference is that my advice helps other people with morally good advice for their life, but these “morals” and I are strange bedfellows. My “mistakes” don’t really present "challenges" to anything or anyone, except to my immortal soul, and, yes, I will pay for these down the road.

There is nothing wrong with you that taking your own good advice can fix. Next time you have a problem, pretend you’re someone else and give them some sage advice. It will be up to you to act on it. 

How do I sustain a Personal relationship with God?

Never lose faith.

Can money buy love, if not can it be transformed to love? If so how can the money be transformed into love?

No. Money can buy things. If someone loves you for your money, you have, essentially, bought a thing, not true love. If the imaginary “emotion” you bought for money, transforms into love, will you ever be able to forget it started out as a purchase? Probably not, and nor will the “thing” you bought. It will always haunt the back rooms of your mind. 

How do people get out of being poor by thinking?

Perseverance. You are what you truly want to be. Thinking is only the first step.

“The opposite of poverty is not wealth; the opposite of poverty is enough.”

-- Dr. Wess Stafford

How can I stop taking it personally when my boss corrects me? She always adds that my making mistakes causes extra work for others and it feels like she is attacking me for causing extra work on purpose. How can I stop thinking about it this way?

Find another job. She seems to not appreciate your efforts, so maybe you need to find a boss that does. If she balks at you leaving, then explain to her, in no uncertain terms, that she needs to climb down off your back.

What is the definition of success?

True happiness.

My friend has mice in his house. He has started leaving water n food out for them. Is this a bad idea or a good one? He says it is kindness.

His “kindness” will cause him to move out and turn over the house to the mice. Leaving food and water is inviting many more mice into his abode. They carry fleas and diseases. Better to eradicate the problem before it becomes a disaster.

Is it ever okay to demand respect, even if we don't feel we've earned it yet?

You should get a modicum of respect, regardless. But, demanding what you haven’t earned is a bit presumptuous.

Is there anything negative about not focusing enough on one's outward appearance?

Yes, if you let your “outward appearance” make you look like a pig… unless your entire point was to let people see the real you, that is. How we look is as important to who we are as how speak and how we act. If you want to be taken seriously, you should make the attempt to look like it, just as you should make the attempt to speak like it and act like it. Otherwise, you’re just another looney-toon special case wearing a sandwich sign warning that “The End Is Nigh” in downtown Manhattan. 

“If you are to be a homeowner, you need to do all these things. You need to keep your exterior tidy. After all, it serves as an outward reflection of the stuff going on inside. Doesn't it? If the walls are crumbling, so must be your marriage. If the paint is chipping, so must be your will to live.”

-- David Olimpio

Is it ethical for companies to hire people only to lay them off a few months later - which is what has happened at many tech companies lately - but unethical for people to take a job only to quit to take another job a few months later? If so, why?

Tech companies come and go. If they threw all their capital into the startup and the business just didn’t take off, there is a reason for the layoffs. If they hire, knowing they are going to lay off and don’t tell the employees when they come on, this is unethical. As someone who isn’t laid off, I would take the hint that the company acts unethically, and I’d be ready to move to a better company when they lay my “ethical self” off.

As far as people quitting to take a better job after just a few months of employment, maybe the business needs to look at why it happens. Maybe they have found better pay and benefits. This is not as unethical as purposely not paying people what they’re worth just so the owners can grow the bottom line. 

I was making £1.4k a month. If I quit my job, I'll be making -£1.4k until I find something else, or should I change my perspective?

You already have the answer in your head. What do you think?

Every time I tried thinking about a question, and if I have the answer wrong/ridiculous, I always feel like there will be someone to mock me and whip me, is this a reason that I always can't think of an answer to a question?

Probably, but no one is perfect, and failure is the best way for us to learn. Ignore that others think they are so good they can judge you. Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead! Screw what the “know-it-alls” think. It is what you try to learn that is important. If you let them hold you back, you become your own problem. 

How can we turn the attention from good answers to good questions and then good silence?

Work on the good silence. Listening is 90% of learning, and good questions are the other 10. Keep your pie hole shut and your ears open.

Author's comment: Thank you for the good advice!

How can I set boundaries to prevent feeling frustrated and fed up in certain situations?

Setting boundaries is erecting a fence to keep out what you don’t want. You don’t want frustration and getting fed up in certain situations, so don’t allow certain situations into your life, like drama. Learn to walk away from frustration and unwanted drama. This is pretty simple. You will go through some trial and error, but it will become easier as you get used to the program you’ve set for yourself. Jealousy will show up from those who don’t understand how you can act like this. “Understanding” can be a bitch for those who don’t.

“When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behavior or a choice.”

-- Brené Brown

How can someone like me get somewhere in life when I have no communication skills? I wish I had communication skills so I could say things to people.

Your communication skills, when writing, seem pretty good. Try saying what you write in your head.

Why do I have no communication skills?

Making the answer simpler. What are you doing with this question? Communicating, and you’ve made the communication more succinct than the previous question, which is even better communication.

Does "Because" always follow "Why"?

Of course. This is because of that... if you buy into “cause and effect” as a natural law. 

When in your life did you see someone’s perception of money change?

After my divorce, my perception changed. What I wanted became so less important than what I already had. When you have everything ripped away from you, including your children, material things become so much less important. Friendships, love, family, and giving selflessly, all come into focus.  

We are seeing a lot of the most successful people saying that going to college is not necessary right now and degrees aren't important and how the school system is so bad but we see that they went to college and they send their kids to college?

Look up the wage of a master welder, or a master diver. Given the right employer, shipbuilders, or oil companies, they can make as much as a doctor practicing medicine. 

"For vocational workers, their pay should reflect their skills and the difficulty of labour. To be skilled in a craft should be accepted as an alternative path." 

-- Tan Cheng Bock

 

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 Integrity, Life, Revenge, Honesty, and Strange

“If it is not right do not do it; 

if it is not true do not say it.”

-- Marcus Aurelius

What has integrity become?

Rare.

Dıск gives life, how can lеsbians not understand it?

I don’t think that lesbians really give a shit that Dick has the ability to give life, as long as Dick stays away from them. I think they really understand Dick, which is why they don’t want anything to do with Dick. Personally, I don’t want Dick either. Being a lesbian, I understand why they don’t like Dick. I would, also, much rather hang with the ladies. 

What is more dangerous than a lie?

Being caught.

How can you stop being too hard on yourself at work?

Put your full focus on doing your job. If you’re focused, you won’t have time to worry about minutia until you get home to your significant other. Let them worry about the minutia.

Which is grammatically correct: 'to be' or 'to be'?

Are they supposed to be the same? This isn't the question, after all, is it?

"To be, or not to be, that is the question:

Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer

The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,

Or to take arms against a sea of troubles

And by opposing end them."

-- Wm. Shakespeare, "Hamlet"

How do I make my neighbor take responsibility for her dog she kicked out in the freezing rain and now denies it's her dog at all?

Does it have a collar and a license? The license proves it’s her’s. Does more than one neighbor knows she owns the dog? Call animal protection and turn her in. Sounds like animal cruelty, to me.

What would you do differently after high school if you could go back and have a redo?

I would have married a much better woman later in life.

Is making the best of a bad situation just complacency?

You make the best of a bad situation after you’ve tried to make it better and failed. You have found that you have no control so why continue to worry about it? Better to stop whining and make the best of it. Complacency, as I see it, is when you haven’t tried anything to make it better, and simply decide that it is what it is.

Is everyone in their 40s right now like me bewildered that all the celebrities you grew up with are all older than you and are taking it easy, like you?

Wait until you get to your 70s and all the celebrities you grew up with are dropping like flies.

Is my life so difficult because I'm so dumb and forgetful?

Probably, but you can do much about educating yourself. I read, a lot. I also have a calendar at my desk to remind me of things I have to do. I check it every morning. But, being dumb and forgetful are simply consequences of not taking the time to not be.

Every morning watch the news or read a paper and form your own opinions. Make a list of things you need to do, so you don’t forget. Use a calendar for things you need to do on different days. But, reading, lists, and calendars are only useful tools if you use them.

By the way, if you were truly dumb, you wouldn’t be concerned about it.  You are in good company.

“Stupidity isn't punishable by death. If it was, there would be a hell of a population drop.”

-- Laurell K. Hamilton

Why am I having so much trouble figuring out how to follow back someone? Do others have trouble doing this?

If I knew what it was to “follow back someone” I’d be farther along in this question. 

How can I get revenge on my much older brother who turns my family against me, hurts me, screams and swears at me, and gets me punished as well as much much more?

I’d learn a martial art so you can protect yourself. He is an unhappy person, and he isn’t acting like your brother. Family doesn’t act that way. Your mom and dad donated genetic material, but that doesn’t make a person family. Karma will take care of him in due time. Meanwhile, stay away from him and ignore him and his attitude. At the first opportunity, put as much distance as you can between you. I’d recommend military service as a way to get the hell out of there. Military police is an option that will give you skills to protect yourself. Revenge, however, will just bring karma down on you, as well.

How do I become popular and well-known in and out of school?

Become a singer in a rock and roll band.

How can one find a purpose in life when one feels like they are living only for themselves?

Isn’t “living for yourself” a selfish purpose in life? If someone wants to find another purpose, they should try living for someone else, selflessly. Just a thought.

How can I feel happy and useful in my life again as a junior?

Get a job you are happy doing, or find some way to give selflessly of yourself.

“You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.”

-- Albert Camus

How can one live a happy and successful life without changing anything?

People make happiness too difficult. Happiness is a simple choice, and true “success” in life is choosing happiness. So, choose to strive for true happiness always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances.

Can you explain the difference between "to be" and "to have"?

To be rich, you will need money. To have money, you need to work.

How can you live a happy and successful life without planning anything?

So, you aren’t planning to live a happy and successful life? Why bring it up, then? Asking “how” is asking for a plan, which is what you don’t want. 

Is it okay for me to ask the female bubble worker to get laid with me?

What?

How do I take money from my rich new girlfriend?

You don’t. She’s probably tired of being used by selfish, gold-digging, leeches. How about just being her friend? She might find that refreshing, and you might learn something about her, and yourself.

“If you choose money over love, you will always be poor.”

-- Matshona Dhliwayo

Why do some people say "Excuse me for being honest"? What does this mean exactly?

“Excuse me for being honest. I know you’d prefer that I blow smoke up your ass, but that’s just not in my nature. And, I appreciate that you think everyone deserves a second chance. But, I honestly don’t think it would be a good idea to have a convicted serial rapist as security for the girl's dormitory. Just saying.”

Does working too much cause mental illness or depression?

Not if you enjoy what you do.

Which is correct, "mom" or "mother"?

Mother is the “correct” term. “Mom” is used as a term of endearment.

“My “mother” donated genetic material so I can exist.”

“My mom is a fun, party animal.”

What are some opinions on telling people to smile?

Good idea, I’ve been doing it for years.

What humble things have you done because you are poor?

The same “humble” things I do, now that I’m not. Being humble is not about how much wealth you possess. It is a selfless frame of mind where you don’t let your ego get ahead of doing the right things always, and treating people with dignity and respect. I have to work on this whenever I’m confronted by members of the League of the Perpetually Offended.

“It's okay to disagree with the thoughts or opinions expressed by other people. That doesn't give you the right to deny any sense they might make. Nor does it give you a right to accuse someone of poorly expressing their beliefs just because you don't like what they are saying. Learn to recognize good writing when you read it, even if it means overcoming your pride and opening your mind beyond what is comfortable.”

-- Ashly Lorenzana

What does it mean if someone asks if they offended you?

It means they must think they offended me. Is this a trick question? The only way they can offend me is by being perpetually offended.

How do you know if a guy is serious about his girlfriend?

Grab her ass and see what he does.

What does it mean when someone says they are "not into" partying?

They don’t like to party down, get shit-faced, eat party food, puke, and do it all again. Been there, and done that, for most of my military career. As I approach 70 years on this planet, I can honestly say I’m not much into partying.

Is pain a form of happiness or a road to seeking pleasure?

Both, if you ascribe to the philosophy of Donatien Alphonse François.

Why do you think trans women are so much better than you at well just about everything in life?

I have nothing against the LGBTQ+ community, but, taken at face value, is this question really valid? Even trying to qualify it with “just about” seems to make it even less valid if we insist on using "so much better."

“Gender preference does not define you. Your spirit defines you.”

-- P.C. Cast

How do scientists prove that we can't think without language?

I don’t need language as a baby to know I want to suck on that delicious nipple.

What is it like to be frequently viewed as a strange person?

I’ve never really thought about it.

What does it mean if you cannot make a living doing what you love?

You’re going to make a living doing what you don’t love.

What is the man's motive for talking to the other woman?

The first woman isn’t even on the ballfield, much less entertaining thoughts of first base.

Can life change drastically at age twenty-three?

Did someone get pregnant?

“At 23, I took the example

Of Moses and Jesus

And went 40 days without food.

In the end, Moses saw his god's glory,

Jesus overcame the devil,

I got a divorce...”

-- Eric Overby

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 Subjective, Objective, Balance, Sex, Lies, and Wrong

 
Nuff said.

What are the top 10 life-changing habits that can transform your life in a year?

Dislike women. Dislike sex. Dislike bourbon. Dislike pizza. Dislike cooking. Dislike baking. Dislike work. Dislike driving. Dislike friends. Dislike Happiness. Dislike women, and dislike sex. Yeah, I know. I just thought they needed repeating.

What happens if you seduce a woman with different ideas than yours?

You better like being “submissive” to her.

What is the definition of "very wrong"?

One has to accept that there are varying levels of “wrong” in life. “Very” wrong means that something is more than just wrong, but it is still less than being “so” wrong. Anything above “so” wrong is on the border of being criminal, in nature.

Is it possible to prove to a person that everything he believes is false and only one thing is true?

Only if they have an open mind, and your “true” thing is incontrovertible.

Is it ok to feel ashamed of my hedonistic desires, or is there something wrong with me?

Why would you feel ashamed of your desires? Perhaps if your religion steps up, but, other than that, if it feels good, do it. I would, but, then, I’m a self-proclaimed hypocrite. Don’t do as I do, do as I say.

“The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it. Resist it, and your soul grows sick with longing for the things it has forbidden to itself.”

-- Oscar Wilde

Why is it important to have role models?

It isn’t. It is important to have good, morally ethical, role models. They give us an example to live up to or surpass.

When a person violates our boundaries, is it a subjective experience or an objective one? Can I adjust myself so that I don't get hurt?

It can be either/or, depending on how you view it. If you’re worried about getting hurt, however, it is a subjective view. If you wish to “adjust” yourself, leave the situation so you don’t have to worry. Getting hurt, or not, is totally up to you. Make the choice to stay or go.

What helps you when you have to make a hard decision?

Bourbon.

To what extent can there ever be perfect accuracy?

There can only be “excellent” accuracy. There is no such thing as perfect, except where God is concerned, and even that is in question.

Do you want to home? Is this a correct sentence?

According to “Grammarly” it is fine.

“If you have any young friends who aspire to become writers, the second greatest favor you can do them is to present them with copies of The Elements of Style. The first greatest, of course, is to shoot them now, while they’re happy.”

-- Dorothy Parker

How do you balance the importance of belonging, with the importance of getting out of an echo chamber?

There is no “balance” for me. I belong, as is my choice. I put much more importance on getting out of the echo chamber.

I'm curious, is anyone out there that mostly just plays video games, does simple things like reading, and is very happy in life just doing that?

I like reading, cooking, and looking at attractive women, and am very happy just doing that. But, then again, I’m approaching 70 years of life. Strive for true happiness always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances.

What do you say about good relationships and bad relationships?

After a 25-year failed marriage, revel in the good relationships and bail on the bad ones. Life is too short for drama.

Is being a trusted brand still important to corporations? If not, should the people build trust and provide quality products and services to each other either by creation, or due diligence?

Brands are only “trusted” by people who don’t bother with due diligence. Corporations come and go, or get bought out and become better. Going through life without due diligence is a crap shoot, and the “house” usually wins.

I am 33 years old and I work as an office staff. How do I figure out my goals and not become stuck?

Ask yourself, “What do I really want to do with my life?” If you have an answer, go for it.

“Ninety percent of the people are not happy with their jobs. The remaining ten percent don’t deserve their jobs in the first place.”

-- Abhaidev

Is it hard to find a submissive woman out there?

Advertise. “Looking for submissive woman to enjoy mutual pleasures.”

Do we owe Trump a debt of gratitude after he sought to take the fight to the corrupt institutions preying on the US?

We owe him a debt of gratitude for taking on the liberal socialist lying bullshit for four years, and they still can’t leave him alone.

Does social media make us less personable?

Yes. My son and his wife, in their 40s, sit at either end of the couch and text each other.

What makes some people more responsible than others? Is it natural or learned?

Learned. We might be born without sin, but “responsibility” is something we are taught to be and have to learn to admit.

What's more sexualized? Bare breasts or bare butts?

Breasts, without question.

“Breasts are a scandal because they shatter the border between motherhood and sexuality.”

-- Iris Marion Young

Why most relationships are doomed to fail… and what you can do about it?

Lack of honesty, fidelity, and friendship. Try being honest, loyal, and, most of all, be a good friend. It really isn’t all about the sex, no matter how much we’d like it to be.

Did you know that you are not hardcore unless you live hardcore?

Well, duh.

Can you build a convincing lie using only factually verifiable statements?

If the statements are “factually verifiable” it isn’t much of a lie, unless you’re talking to a person with no senses… or a moron.

“The sun is up!”

“No, it isn’t.”

“What?” 

What are some things that people enjoy doing as teenagers or adults?

Sex. Hey, this is easy.

What does it mean when someone says, "I'm not your type," but they are no longer interested in you?

They are being honest. If they are no longer interested in you, they aren’t your type. They tasted the pie and found it lacking.  However...

"You aren’t my type, just the way that I am not yours. But that’s why we are good for each other—we are so different, yet we’re the same. You told me once that I bring out the worst in you. Well, you bring out the best in me."

-- Anna Todd

What advice do successful people have for teens going through tough times?

Life is about making good choices. Life is what you make of it.

How can you tell if someone is really good or fine when they say it?

They really aren’t, if they find the need to brag about it. Really good and fine is all about being humble and letting people stew in the obvious.

If you had to choose between never being able to use your phone again or never being able to speak, which would you choose?

Never use the phone. If I can’t speak, having a phone is kind of silly, isn’t it?

What can a nice girl do to deal with people who are jealous of her?

Take off her clothes. Hey, she might as well go for the gusto and show everyone they have no chance of being that good.

What is your opinion of when someone says "your country"?

A lot of socialists are trying to destroy my country. Not going to happen. 

“My Country is not just my Soil, but it is also my Soul that breathes in my body. I am the strongest and devoted advocate of my land and people wherever I am. It does not matter how bitterly I criticize them, even though they are my real love and respect.”

-- Ehsan Sehgal

Why would a guy kiss my forehead and then ghost me?

Found someone else. Not very honest, though, so, better off without him.

How often should we review grammar?

Every time you write, unless you like being judged in a poor light.

What are the benefits of trying new things that we're not good at?

For one thing, you won’t know you’re not good at them until you try them.

How do you deal with parents who blame you for everything and are never on your side?

Are you 18 yet?

Can consciousness stop existing?

Yes. It’s called unconsciousness.

“Consciousness was upon him before he could get out of the way.”

-- Kingsley Amis

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

Out of Someone Else's Mouth (Updated from 3/22/2017)

“Do you not know that God entrusted you with that money (all above what buys necessities for your families) to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to help the stranger, the widow, the fatherless; and, indeed, as far as it will go, to relieve the wants of all mankind? How can you, how dare you, defraud the Lord, by applying it to any other purpose?”

--John Wesley (1703-1791)

Last I read, studies put the number of Christian sects in the world at 33,000 plus; all of them think they are more right and, therefore, more worthy of "salvation" than their brothers. I have found, in discussing scripture, with Christian leaders around me, most of them read their scripture, believe in it, and, seemingly, do not understand what they read. They read, and yet they do not see. Perhaps it's because they put all of their unwavering faith in what they believe is the 'Word of God' on earth, that contradictory, vague, open-to-interpretation, 1500-page "user's guide" for the Ten Commandments - the Holy Bible.  

I've always wondered why ten very easy-to-understand commandments, from an omnipotent God incapable of making mistakes, had to be clarified by the ignorant children created by said God, to whom this very same omnipotent God aimed those commandments.  "What God really meant to say was..."  So, were they second-guessing God's perfection, or looking for loopholes in God's laws? We all know how much mankind loves a loophole, and who better than those in control of religious fervor to find loopholes to ensure their control continues, unabated.

In Dan Brown's fiction novel, The Lost Symbol, he explains man's relationship to God's Word and clergy in a way with which I totally agree:  "The moment mankind separated himself from God, the true meaning of the Word was lost.  The voices of the ancient masters have now been drowned out, lost in the chaotic din of self-proclaimed practitioners shouting that they alone understand the Word... that the Word is written in their language and none other."  I ask you to consider those 33,000 plus sects of just Christianity alone, and the 33,000 plus clergy, the 33,000 plus self-proclaimed leaders of millions of self-proclaimed practitioners, all shouting that they, alone, are right.

Holy Scripture is, for the most part, a "word-of-mouth" history of the Abrahamic faith, our belief in God.  It tells us of our beginnings,  God's gift of His "Ten Commandments" and the miracles of true faith.  It tells the struggles of those who went before, and of Christ, God's prophet here on earth, given as a sacrifice for our sins.  It also predicts for us a future when the mysteries of the universe are 'unveiled' for all who wish to see; the coming age of enlightenment.  It is a book inspired by man's belief in a supreme being... but, written by men.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the short epilogue, the last 25%, of this holiest of books.  All of the Holy Scripture, regardless of the religion based on it, holds great secrets within the writing that mankind strives to understand, but is not yet ready to discover.    

The 19th-century poet and educator, Matthew Arnold, wrote: 

"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."

The great power Matthew Arnold speaks of is the power the Church wields over their congregations, a power to control faith, thinking, and leadership. The power to interpret, without question, what "Holy Scripture" scripture says. Whereas, organized religion derives its great power from scripture, only within ourselves can we truly discover the unerring balance, intuition, and sweet reasonableness that is Jesus Christ. Everything we need is already within us, the rest are just words on paper, or in someone else's mouth. Treat others as you would have them treat you, love the Lord God with all your heart, walk in peace, speak truth from the soul, and love all, only in this way will the teachings of Christ truly touch the hearts of others.

"Use your ministry to build people, not people to build your ministry."

-- Jacquelyn K. Heasley

We listen to the preaching of the evangelists; showering them with monetary offerings to build churches and cathedrals.  We buy our way into heaven because the preachers tell us to open our purses and give until it hurts.  These "men of God" travel around in expensive cars and private jets while many in their own congregation scratch for food.  It would seem of great importance that we show up to the church and give an offering, or at least send a check through the mail, to ensure our place in line for salvation.

"The Church exists for nothing else but to draw men into Christ, to make them little Christs. If they are not doing that, all the cathedrals, clergy, missions, sermons, even the Bible itself, are simply a waste of time. God became Man for no other purpose."

-- C. S. Lewis

I was constantly trying to convince clergy to come and volunteer time with patients at the medical center, to visit with them, to lend a friendly ear, and help them to pray.  Again, I am trying to convince clergy to do that which they pledged to God they would willingly do, but they're too busy running the business of religion to find time to fulfill their role as shepherds for the lost and the sick, the poor, hungry, and homeless.  Many of them remind me of a Catholic priest I found in the medical center's database who asked that he only be called to attend to the sick between certain hours, and then only if the sick were Catholic and then only if they were members of his own congregation.  

I simply can't feel the love.  

We all remember the biblical parable where Jesus hung a shingle stating his hours of operation and that he would only see the faithful, right?  Never happened.  It would seem power is the fertilizer of hypocrisy in religion.  "I'm the religious leader so don't call me, I'll call you."  This attitude from clergy just pisses me off.

“Let eloquence be flung to the dogs rather than souls be lost. What we want is to win souls. They are not won by flowery speeches.”

-- Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892), the "Prince of Preachers"

We can listen to all the televangelists, go to all the meetings, and it will not benefit us if we do not hear and if we do not act.  But then, if we simply read the very simple Ten Commandments which God gave us, we would be as rich, if not more so, and certainly more worthy of heaven than if we expect others to do the work for us.  Faith must come from within us, not others.  We must give thanks to God; we must ask for God's help and we must earn our place at the table. Clergy, it seems, constantly proves that they can't do what we must

It is now possible to live a "Christian life" without doing the things that Jesus commanded us to do. We have hired people to go into all the world, to visit those in prison, to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to care for widows and orphans. The average Christian doesn't have to do it.

-- John Calvin Thomas, columnist, author, commentator

I find it interesting that the Bible is a collection of writings, Hebrew and Christian, compiled under orders of Emperor Constantine by a council of religious leaders in Nicaea.  Included are parables, tales of miracles, and conversations with angels and with God.  Most of these stories are oral history handed down for several thousand years with no proof other than the stories themselves.  Yet, it seems none of today's faithful find any of this worthy of discussion or critique because they take the validity of it all on faith.  Faith, by definition, is a belief in something for which there is little or no proof.

Mohammed receives another Testament directly from an angel of God, or Joseph Smith receives another testament directly from an angel of God, and no faith or credence is forthcoming from the rest of the faithful, only denial and ridicule.  Islam and Mormonism are also faithful to the same God of Abraham.  They get their scripture from the same angel, the same God, and yet they suffer persecution from the rest of God’s children.  Christianity and Islam would agree Allah is not the Christian God, and vice versa, even though both claim direct descent from Abraham as do, obviously, the faithful of Judaism.  We all have the same creator; we simply differ in our interpretation of this 'Father' of man.  The same God, one omnipotent God, to which we have assigned different names and different ways of showing our faith.

Mormons are ridiculed simply because of their lack of proof that Smith is anything more than an author of fiction; there are no golden tablets as proof.  And the Christian proof is where?  There are no nails from the cross, no crown of thorns, and no cross for that matter.  The Hebrew proof is where?  There are no stone tablets, no staff of Moses, no Ark of the Covenant. We all claim to have a "belief" steeped in the same history, based on a "belief" in the same deity, and without any physical proof.  We base our "belief" on deep, unwavering faith.  Yet, we are constantly at odds with any new miracles which present themselves, as with Mormonism or Islam.  What will Christians believe when Christ returns?  Where will our "faith" be at the Second Coming?  Will history repeat, or will Christ, indeed, come fully armed to kick ass and take names?

“The Church expected the Second Coming of Christ immediately. The converts had known a first coming. And then? And then! That was the trouble — the then. He had come, and they adored and believed, they communicated and practiced, and waited. The then lasted, and there seemed to be no farther equivalent Now. Time became the individual and catholic problem. The Church had to become as universal and as durable — as time.”

-- Charles Williams (1886-1945), theologian, poet, author

Will a lowly shepherd on some far horizon, living a morally righteous life in all humility, and praising one supreme deity above all others, be any less worthy of God's grace than the multitude searching for salvation by packing stadiums to throw money at a wealthy evangelist in order to reserve their place in line at the gates to paradise?  Is the faithful beggar less worthy than the faithful merchant, the faithful idiot less worthy than the faithful genius, or the faithful student less worthy than the faithful teacher?  I think not.  This is one situation where less can actually equal more.

In the preface of The Gospel of Thomas, Didymos Judas Thomas writes, "These are the hidden words that the living Jesus spoke, and that Didymos Judas Thomas wrote down. And He said: "Whoever finds the meaning of these words will not taste death."  In reading these supposed words written as Christ spoke them, I was interested to note in this Gospel how generally clear and easy to understand Jesus describes our path to enlightenment and salvation.  At times confusing and contradictory, it seems not more so than all other scripture.  

Does it really take 1500 pages of Holy Scripture and a degree in divinity to follow the path and teachings of Jesus?  Jesus, Himself, would simply ask that we give away our material belongings and follow.  How difficult did God make it to attain grace and paradise? Was it just for the learned? Was it just for the 'chosen' to maintain power over all others?  I think not.  Perhaps it was simple enough for simple people to understand.  Maybe it was intended to be simple enough for all of us to understand that we only answer to one higher power.  Maybe the answers we seek have been inside us all the time, written across our hearts and minds by the power of God.

Of course, this is just food for thought.

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