Questioning Guilt, Timing, Ego, Quotes, and Karma

“You have as many options as you give yourself.”

-- Kasie West

Why is it that we do other things in continuity, but when it comes to studying as a student, we just don't feel like it? I mean also feeling guilty at the same time but not doing the homework required to get desired grades!

No concept of reality. I was having way too much fun to waste time paying attention to subjects that didn’t interest me. When I got into college, though, I hit my stride. I could take those classes that held my attention, like psychology. Then, I got drafted and joined the Air Force. They put my psychology background to use in the Intelligence field. I stayed in for almost 23 years. 

Why are many people carrying grumpy sad faces? Why does the world fail to be a place for joy and fun?

Well, in the United States, many voters are realizing Joe Biden was a mistake.

At what point in your life would you focus on your one and only interest, knowing that you had to compromise the very friends, peers, acquaintances, beliefs, and morals for the sake of your pursuit of passion that made you happy?

When I lost the great value I put in my friends, peers, acquaintances, beliefs, and morals.

What is a norm society needs? How should people socialize with it? How should one be punished if one breaks the norm?

The “Rule of Law” and the punishments that come with not abiding by it. The “punishments” are laid out, but liberal District Attorneys won’t enforce the law they took an oath to uphold.

Why is it wrong for individuals who are smarter than their peers to take advantage of that and profit from them? Why not use the gifts you have to the best of your ability and succeed no matter what others think?

Selfishness. Mentor your peers and bring them along. Don’t be an ass.

I have a fear of my happiness and peace not lasting, and that makes me overanalyze and anxious when I'm happy, or avoid happiness altogether, what's your advice?

Strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances. True happiness is a choice each of us should make for life. As a choice, it is sustainable as long as we uphold our choice. To do anything else would be counterproductive. Do what you enjoy and enjoy what you do. Keep drama and assholes from your doorstep. Learn to smile, smile often, and be selfless in all you do. All of this seems to work for me.

“A lot of people spend a lot of time chasing a lot of things that will never bring lasting happiness.”

-- Wayne Gerard Trotman

Why do all of the problems come at the same time?

Thank God! I’m not sure I could handle them trickling in like the drip of a bad faucet. I like to get them three at a time. I’m not a very good multi-tasker, but three seems to be my max.

What is your biggest struggle in talking to new people? Is this an important skill to have today?

People are just people. The only struggle is getting them to understand they're in the “Deep South” and that everyone is friendly. It is what we do. 

What can a person's answer to a question reveal about them?

Quite a bit, I think. Do they have a sense of humor? Do they ignore the League of the Perpetually Offended? Do they have the wisdom of years, are they shooting from the hip, or do they really have knowledge? Often, the people shooting from the hip are spot on.

How many types of stupid people are there?

Just one. He’s old and his tolerance for idiots needs work.

What if success is your only option and failure is not?

Then you attain your goal and have no idea what to do when you fail. Personally, I’d attain the goal, then go back and throw a wrench into the process and see what I can learn from the experience. Attaining a goal without any failure is pretty blasé.

“Making a choice requires more than selecting between option A and option B.”

-- Frank Sonnenberg

What are the main ingredients in your character that lead you to think you are smarter than other people?

My overinflated ego. Being always humble, I’m certainly not more intelligent, but I consider myself smarter than average.

Why do people complain about things more than in the past?

Joe Biden.

What is the importance of humility in martial arts?

Tempers your attitude; you really might not be all that. Be the light in finding a non-violent resolution. Try to simply walk away. “Coward” is the name of the person that can mop the floor with them, but chooses not to.

What are the most important life lessons that you've learned so far?

Strive for true happiness always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances.

Is it your fault for having good intentions but being taken advantage of?

Being selfless in your giving doesn’t mean you have to be taken. I consider this the fault of the giver for not paying attention. You can give selflessly, but the minute they try to take advantage, there are other people that need your selfless help. Go into selflessness with your eyes wide open.

“It’s when you get complacent that you get taken advantage of.”

-- Tony A. Gaskins

What are some of the most thought-provoking quotes or sayings that have stuck with you over time?

“Any day on this side of the dirt is a great day.”

Do older people wish their youth was more productive or fun? I think it is kind of a dichotomy. Generally, productive stuff is boring, and fun stuff is unproductive.

My youth was too much fun. I almost didn’t graduate high school, I was having so much fun. It would have been much better if I had put my nose to the grindstone and studied. Nothing interested me academically, but blowing it off was very unproductive. I’ve spent most of my adult life making up for it.

Why do some people constantly post selfies of themselves on social media almost every day? These people are middle-aged adults. Why do some people post excessive content? They also talk about their lives, like they’re on reality TV.

They probably watch too much reality TV or soap operas. They end up thinking this is normal when the rest of us could care less (unless the “selfies” are a bit risqué).

Author's comment: You’re probably right about that. Some people want to feel like they’re famous, it seems like. As for the "ladt oart"... lol.

Did you ever get revenge on someone who framed/blamed you for something you didn't do?

I’ve never had the need. I’ve been blamed, but the people they told came and asked me about it. I explained they were doing nothing more than t trying to shift the blame from those who were truly culpable. This is when having a good moral code of ethics pays off. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t. And, if it sounds like it’s bullshit, it probably is. Gullibility requires introspection.

What do you think the quote "don't wish your life away" means?

Don’t be stupid. Death is forever.

“Our goddess of the moon is gifted with magic, with power over the dead. She could banish the dreams, if she wished. She did not.”

-- Madeleine Miller

If someone does something wrong, will their karma be affected if they wish it upon another person?

Of course. Two wrongs not only don’t make a right, but it really pisses karma off.

I am 26 years old and still have 2 years of college. Not a good major and below a 3.0 GPA. I feel like I have no hope. What should I do?

Why are you still beating that “not a good” major to death? Dump it. At 26 you might find that “trade school” pays better in the long run. Or, you can continue college while you serve your country.

Do some people not have any friends, and if so, is it normal?

Some do, and it isn’t “normal” in society.

Why are friendships questionable as you get older?

Wisdom and knowledge. All the knife scars on your back have made you more careful of who you let into your life.  You keep your enemies closer, but you never forget they are enemies.

Can you wish for someone to disappear?

Yes, and karma will make you pay for it.

“Karma comes after everyone eventually. You can't get away with screwing people over your whole life, I don't care who you are. What goes around comes around. That's how it works. Sooner or later the universe will serve you the revenge that you deserve.”

-- Jessica Brody

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

Don't Look Back? (Updated from 1/17/2015)

 

"Those who don't know history 

are destined to repeat it."

-- Edmund Burke

"Those who don't know history are destined to repeat it." Truer words were probably spoken, but few ring as true today as they did when Edmund Burke spoke these, in the 1700s. Some people would say, it is best to never look back, always move forward, and don't dwell on the past. This, too, is true, in so far as you don't misinterpret the instruction. 

 It doesn't say you're not to stay mindful of the past; it says not to dwell on it. Like a child in a stroller, it is good for us to look back occasionally to stay certain of where we've been, keeping important events clear in our memory, and ensuring that someone we know is pushing us forward.  It would seem the child has no role in this, but their memory should serve them well, especially, years later, when it comes time for them to vote. So it is with life.  

"Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory."

-- Theodor Seuss Geisel

We need to see events, file them away, and then pay attention to life again as time continues to move inexorably forward.  If we dwell too much on one thing, life will pass us by.  But, not clearly remembering mistakes of the past, dooms us to the great possibility of repeating them in the future.

"Don't look back because you might fall over what is in front of you."

-- Kate Williams

Making my case would be Miss Kate Williams, age seven.  I am not sure Miss Kate was privy to the great works of Dr. Seuss (though this would be hard to believe).  If you look back and fall over something, you probably won't look back again, but the reason you won't is that you remember the last time you did it, and fell.  Dwelling on it might cause you to fall over something, too, if you can't chew gum and walk at the same time.  Better to just let it go, but, keep it close, like a memory.  You don't have to dwell on it, but you might check the road ahead first and think about what went on before.

Adolf Hitler failed at this in Russia, on the Eastern Front.  He saw what he was up against and moved boldly forward without reviewing history, and the last great army to move against Russia - the Vichy French.  Although Hitler's troops weren't decimated by Typhus prior to the battle, as had the French.  The French forces were just as poorly supplied, and, like Napoleon's forces, suffered miserably from the ravages of the brutal Russian winter.  To the Russians, this was just another winter. The egos, of the two greatest armies Europe had seen since the Roman Empire, were their own undoing.

Like God's second covenant with man, our past is, for better or worse, etched into our hearts and minds, The times we celebrate and the scars we give no mind to... until they're seen, then we remember, then we move on.  But if we pick at the wound, and worry over it, it will never heal, it might bleed, and we might weaken and fall.  Our scars, ignored or not, are our proof of life, our story, and our past.  Our scars remind us of things we have done and don't wish to do again.  Ignorance does not serve us well.

Do we have to look back?  It is unavoidable if we don't wish to repeat mistakes. But, then, we are only human... and we have that nasty little "ego" to deal with.

"Each new season grows from the leftovers from the past.  That is the essence of change, and change is the basic law."

-- Hal Borland

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 Bullies, Math, Questions, Value, Decisions, and Ugly

 

“If you think something is ugly, look harder. Ugliness is just a failure of seeing.”

-- Matt Haig

How do former bullies develop moral values to respect other human beings?

Many do. I know the bully I nearly beat into a coma with a tree branch never bullied someone smaller than them again. Understanding comes at them from many directions. The military is one way to change their attitude. Being confronted by others who can make or break you is a sobering fact of life for bullies who think they’re all that.

What are some life lessons you wish you would've known when you were younger?

Failure is simply an opportunity to learn, so don’t stress over it.

Why do I feel I have no value when nobody likes me? How can I stop feeling like this? This feeling is so terrible.

You make a mistake when you base your “value” on what other people think. What you think your value is, is so much more important than some hypocrite who dares to judge you. When you rely on others you set yourself up for failure. The only person you can truly trust to stand beside you… is you. You should be out there making friends, not waiting for “friends” to find you.

If you’re serious that you might be doing something that puts people off, ask people why they don’t find you likable. Sometimes, confronting the issue head-on can garner a lot of benefits.

Why don't many people like hearing about any kind of science?

Understanding science is beyond many. They’d rather hear fingernails down a blackboard.

What is the importance of context?

“What did I do?”

Where is the context? Were you on a date? At work? Helping someone? What makes you think you did anything? Are you a woman, man, or transgender? I get requests to answer these kinds of questions all the time, but you can’t answer because you can’t understand what the circumstances are to clarify the question.

Context definitions: “The circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, and in terms of which it can be fully understood and assessed. The parts of something written or spoken that immediately precede and follow a word or passage and clarify its meaning.”

-- Oxford Languages 

If I am bad at math, will I fail in life?

No. I suck at math. It scares me to the point that I never got my BA degree because a math class was involved. I have not, however, failed in life. I had a great career in military intelligence, which, by the way, required math. I love physics and quantum theory, but the thought of learning math just puts me on pins and needles. This is from a man who helped his son with algebra.

On the flip side, I’ve had two great careers, and my last boss called me back into service so I could be his “boots on the ground” during a reconstruction of a country club.

I will give you a secret to success in life: Strive to be truly happy always and in all things, regardless of your circumstances. It is a simple choice we all should make before we begin school and start learning. As a conscious choice, it becomes sustainable until you change your choice, which would be counterproductive to happiness.

By the way, if someone tells you, .9 x infinity = 1, tell them they left .1 x infinity out in left-field somewhere, so it will never equal 1 unless they put an “x” factor into the equation, which is cheating.

Is jealousy also caused by selfishness?

Jealousy is caused by desire.

To which degree are people dependent on someone else's control for their sense of satisfaction? I know I feel accomplished when I complete my taxes, but often, in my strides for independence and fairness, I exist in a grey area of uncertainty.

If you depend on others for your own sense of satisfaction, be prepared for disappointment. The only person you can count on for satisfaction is you, and even that can, at times, be questionable.

If you knew for a fact that your bullying people led to them ending their lives, would you laugh out loud with delight, deny it was even possible, not care, or maybe, for a few seconds, feel icky about what you helped cause to happen?

There is a fine line between sociopath and psychopath.

Why is it important to understand that success is not about being perfect or never failing?

Failure is the best way we learn. You step back, critique what you did in order to discover why you failed, and then you do it again and again until you do it right. If someone tells you they’ve never failed, they’re either lying, or you need to stay away from what they’re doing… before it blows up. Everyone fails, and everyone learns.

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

-- Winston S. Churchill

Why does it seem like here in the last month? There are a lot of very stupid questions. Does anyone agree with me? I'm getting really aggravated with people who want to play games.

Well, your first question makes little sense.

How do I outsmart people that take you for a joke example stupid convos head games? Constantly making you think dumb useless things. Also, they always talk about why and treat you like a punk, calling you names under their breath and stuff.

You don’t. Getting involved in immature bullshit should be below you. As it sounds, finding a better class of people to hang around with shouldn’t be too hard. Rising above the bottom is a matter of standing up.

What are some signs you are significantly more intelligent than most people?

When you realize most people are not as intelligent as you. “Uh” is not an answer.

Why do people who are considered well-read get some admiration while people who tend to watch TV or lots of movies get none or maybe a little unless they are “actively” watching?

Well-read is not about reading. Well-read is about reading the right things, the classics, articles, and books that educate and open the mind to make you think “why?” Poetry, religion, philosophy, politics, economics, and the like. The “boob tube” offers some content that can fulfill this, but, in general, there are only a few channels that pay attention to informing, instead of entertaining. For instance, most “news” channels provide content they have slanted to their version of the truth, instead of simply reporting the facts.

What would be the last thing you would ever do?

Breathe.

“Death smiles at us all, all a man can do is smile back.”

-- Marcus Aurelius

What are some signs that someone does not value themselves?

“Cutting” would be a big tell. Talk of suicide. Drug use. Sex with multiple strangers (as opposed to sex with multiple friends). Personally, I can’t even think of diving out of a perfectly good aircraft, so anything that risks life or limb, to me, shows a lack of self-value. It certainly seems like a slap across the face to anyone who cares for them. A good “pant down” spanking, on the other hand, can keep a person on the straight and narrow.

What is the difference between something that makes you happy and something that is just a temporary feeling?

One is just a temporary feeling. Is this another trick question? 

Why do people judge childless women?

I certainly don’t. Maybe she’s made a choice for her life. Or, maybe she’s just looking for good breeding stock. One should not judge lest they, themselves, be judged. 

Reader comment:  My sister is one of the kindest people in the theatre world and she and my brother-in-law chose to be child-free. I stayed single because I didn't want a relationship. I have friends who I love. I always wonder how many women have died in childbirth because they were nagged and bullied into it in the first place. On the other hand, a woman who enjoys sex but won't take some responsibility for contraception is selfish.  Sorry, the world, not the theatre world. My predictive text likes playing tricks on me.

My reply:  I agree with your “selfish” comment, and I understand your “predictive” text issue. Thank you, Annie!

What are the signs that someone wants to be alone, either for happiness or sadness?

They tell you, they ignore your overtures to help, or they simply ignore you. Personally, either way, I go to a casino, get a nice room, and hang out around the pool, especially if the pool has a bar in it. Number me one happy man.

Why is it that many INTJs are really bad at picking up subtle behavioral clues?

They’re really bad INTJs, or you have them confused with people who give a shit. 

“Their inner world is often a private, complex one.” So, it seems to me that they don’t pay attention to the subtle behavioral clues of others. They focus on introspection more than the people around them.

"INTJ (introversion, intuitive, thinking, judging) is a four-letter code acronym used to represent one of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types.

People with the INTJ personality type tend to be highly independent, confident, and self-sufficient individuals. They are analytical, creative, and driven.

INTJs are sometimes referred to as “the Architect” or “the Scientist,” “the Strategist,” or “the Mastermind.” ESFP is the opposite of the INTJ personality type."

-- simplupsychology.org

Such a big part of success is getting yourself into a position of power so you can leverage more options. So why is there so little practical advice out there to actually make that happen?

Success is being truly happy in life. What you question is attaining a primary goal that allows you to leverage attaining more goals. There is plenty of advice out there pertaining to attaining knowledge, working hard, and persevering. If everyone could do it, we’d all be wealthy and powerful. The “powerful” keep the information close to their vest. Generally, attaining a “position of power” has a lot to do with attaining knowledge and a position of wealth.

Is it possible to do all you ask of me without you following me?

Yes. It’s called slavery.

How do you make yourself realize quickly after making the wrong decision?

If I’m “making me realize,” then I already realize. Making me would be redundant. Making the wrong decision becomes evident pretty quickly for anyone that isn’t asleep at the wheel. It becomes a mistake, and a mistake is a failure. We didn’t make a good decision. However, failure is the best way we learn. Failure is life presenting us with an opportunity to learn. We learn so we can mitigate the mistake from ever happening again.

What are the life situations or events that can reveal the true attitude of the people around you?

Life-threatening emergencies. Stress separates the wheat from the chaff, those that talk from those that do. 

How can you help someone who needs help but you can’t afford it?

Only if she’s a high-class hooker that plans on charging me for my help. Helping someone is selfless giving of oneself. It rarely involves money as much as it involves physical labor, advice, a shoulder to cry on, or a hand up.

“The waitress had the appearance of a very old hooker who had finally found her place in life”

-- Hunter S. Thompson

How do I deal with people in a group, for example, a project in school and they avoid eye contact with me I make myself important, and "giving" to the conversation, but avoid eye contact with me as if I don’t exist?

You don’t. They know how essential you are to attaining their goal, but they don’t want to give you credit. Find a group that really needs your help, but always be humble in your efforts.

What do you want to hear from someone who's been drinking?

Snoring, or how handsome I am. It depends on how drunk they are. 

How do I stop feeling ugly and useless?

Stop hanging around people who think you’re ugly and find something you can do selflessly to make yourself feel useful. There are many volunteer opportunities.

How do I deal with the regret of making a decision which ended up being the wrong choice during Covid which led me to fail big and waste 3~4 years of my life? I'm trying to move on but the missed opportunity due to a wrong choice haunts me a lot.

Get over it. The more time you spend in the “pity pool” is lost time you can spend moving forward. Failure is the best way we learn. Have you learned anything from your failure? I hope so because it probably won’t be the last. Life presents us with opportunities to learn. Critique why you failed, learn from it, correct it if you can, and move forward. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow hasn’t come, but today is at hand. Learn today so you can do better tomorrow. 

What are some of the most thought-provoking quotes or sayings that have stuck with you over time?

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

-- Winston S. Churchill

“Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”

-- F. Scott Fitzgerald

"Failure is life providing us with an opportunity to learn."

-- F.A. Villari

Editor's Note

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

Before you go getting your panties in a bunch, it is essential to understand that this is just an opinion site and, as such, can be subjected to scrutiny by anyone with a differing opinion. It doesn't make either opinion any more right or wrong than the other. An opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form opinions of their own, if they haven't already done so. This is also why, occasionally, I will present an "opinion" just to stir an emotional pot. Where it may sound like I agree with the statements made, I'm more interested in getting others to consider an alternate viewpoint. 

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

I Am Not Afraid of My God (Updated from 1/15/2015)

 

I have a real problem with the concept that God put us here to satisfy some dark sadistic need to have a specie cower in fear throughout their existence, at the very thought of him.  We were created as a tool, caretakers of the world we were created into.  I would rather think that we would spend our time wanting to make our Creator proud than worry about angering a "supreme deity" that could squash us at any moment.  I suppose, if you buy into the whole "fear God" thing, one would have to constantly be asking themselves, "Why?"  The simple answer?  We angered our creator by not following the rules, just like all those before us.  Adam and Eve were the last shot at glory for a Creator that doesn't fail, but we needed "free will" in order to do our job.  The Creator understood this.  Socialists, not so much.

"To fear is to have more faith in your antagonist than in Christ."

-- D.L. Moody (1837-1899)

I have better things to do with a life that God "gifted" me than to worry about that which God already knows, after all, God knows everything, right?  Like any "father" would, God hopes that we utilize the tools bestowed upon us, but knows that we will have to fall and get back up again before we finally "get it" and succeed.  Why would you fear a Creator that offers unconditional love?

Brad Miner, is an author and senior editor of The Catholic Thing.  I both agree and disagree with his opinions, but find his insight interesting and thought-provoking.  His latest post, Afraid of God, did not disappoint.

In the article, he does what Catholics are famous for, he quotes those whom Catholics have to thank for instilling this fear of God deep into our faith.  Is it any wonder why, after several thousand years, mankind has no progress toward peace and tranquility as we constantly bicker over who is more right in order not to offend God?  Is it just me, or is it more logical we might have progressed further if we had just concentrated on doing the right thing, creating beauty, and making the most out of our world?  God gave us all of the tools to make this happen, and then we let our ego get in the way.  If we're not letting ego distract us, we're blaming God for falling short.  Do we really want to go there?

The advertisement, above, seems to be typical of religion baiters, God-haters, or hard-liner atheists.  I don't disagree with it, at all, but this is an example of both hitting the nail on the head while missing the entire piece of wood.  

God gives us the tools to stop the rape of our children, but religion-baiting, with ads like this, is not making use of those tools.  It would be like holding a bucket while standing on the dock watching everyone else bail a sinking boat and criticizing them for not having enough buckets.  The folks in the boat feel it can be saved, but you standing on the dock, with a bucket, criticizing them, won't help.  You have the tools. God gave you a bucket.  Get in the boat and stop finding excuses to not take ownership of the fact that you have a bucket and are choosing to let the boat sink.

The ad, however, is spot on if you have no knowledge of what you speak.  The statement from a person of faith would read, "The difference between me and you is that I was born with the courage to actually stop a person from raping a child, or die trying."  The difference is I don't use "should" or "would" in my statement.  Atheists seem to waffle a lot.  Cowards do that.

If God steps in at every turn to rescue us from our fiascos, when we're too dense to use the available tools we were endowed with to rescue ourselves, we would just sit in the boat and wait for God to bail us out.  We will drown and find ourselves back in a sinking boat in the next life, and the next, and so on, until we learn to use a bucket.  

When you think it out, the boat would have never been built, seeing as God would have constantly provided everything for our existence.  No need for the boat.  Oh, wait, Garden of Eden, right?  Everything was provided for us.  Well, we screwed that up.  There are those that still blame God for us not following the rules.  God warned us to follow the rules.  Religion, as mankind wrote it, leaves a lot for us to explain.

But, back to the advertisement.  So, on the other hand, this advertisement is actually a statement in support of my argument.  I could stop a child from being raped because God has given me the righteous tools to accomplish this feat.  There is no "would" or "should" about it.  It is a waste of God's "gifts" not to make use of them.  In the wise words of Master Yoda, "Do or do not. There is no try." 

I'm a great one for stating that, God helps those that help themselves.  But, God already has helped us.  God has given us the tools, and the knowledge, to make everything right.  We have only to start down that path to the rediscovery of that which we lost.  It is like looking for the reading glasses that are perched on our heads.  We have them already, we simply have to look in the mirror to realize what we thought was lost was with us all the time.  Are people really that lazy?  Our wanting to look in the mirror, and then actually doing it, is just more trouble than simply cursing God, constantly, for not just showing us the way.

I prefer to take ownership of my time here on Earth.  It has taken some time for me to understand this because of that.  For everything we do, or don't do, there will be consequences.  Consequences can manifest in many ways, including the death and suffering of the very young and innocent.  These consequences become memories, reminders of what has been done wrong, or right.  Death of the innocent is a necessary, albeit cruel, reminder of cowardice, the wages of sin, and the loss of Eden.

"Fear has to be the opposite of God because it is the opposite of love.  Fear is selfish, needy and focused on you.  It makes no sense for God to want you in fear about Him or your life. 

It comes down to this:  either God wants you to live in fear of Him, always afraid you aren't good enough and focused on yourself, or He wants you to live in love, knowing you are safe, and focused on loving other people.  Which feels more accurate to you?"

-- Kimberly Giles

I know what is right and what isn't.  I don't need religion to know what is expected of me, it was written across my mind and my heart before I was born, and I know that I have fallen short of the mark.  Does this scare me for the "judgment" to come?  No.  My faith in the Creator is like faith in my father.  I will be shown the error of my ways, I will learn, I will be given kudos for having already recognized my shortcomings, and I will earn my way back onto my path to continue my journey and hopefully do better next time.  The only fear is in having to repeat the same task over and over again like some sad "sack of hammers" too dense to learn.  But, even this fear will do nothing but slow my ultimate destiny of which fear is a part.  Nothing will be built if I keep hammering at the nails and missing the wood, and the boat will sink if I constantly complain and find fault without ever getting into the boat to help bail.  There will be little progress.

I love my Creator for giving me the opportunity to muck this life up.  Failure is, after all, the best way we learn.  I hope I learn enough so I don't muck life this much the next time around, and there will be so many next times.  This is the loving and forgiving Creator I believe in.  All God asks is for us to do, even though God knows we might fail.  Without trial and error, there can be no knowledge; without knowledge, there can be no doing; without doing, no progress, and without progress, we will never find God's kingdom, which is right where we left it.  We need to stop assigning blame, especially for our short memory, and start taking ownership.

As for fearing God, I leave you with one last thought.  I quote the scripture rarely, But, I'd like to remind you of the thought at the start of this post, a thought that everyone "fearing" a loving God should chew on:

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

-- 2 Timothy 1:7

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 Mysteries, Reflections, Failure, and Lying

“The reason why there are so many bad people in the world is very simple: It's easy to be a bad person, it's hard to be a good person!”

-- Mehmet Murat ildan

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

Well, this stands out as a record, for me.  My answers had 21,233 views in the past week.  One of my answers was featured in over 10,000 digests on the site, which will account for the jump.  I can't wait to see how well it does over the next week.  I have added the answer, below, for those who are interested:

How do you handle a person who's loudly speaking on their phone when you’re trying to enjoy your dinner in a restaurant?

People who do this are either clueless or just assholes. I usually figure they’re assholes. Pick up your plate and go sit with them. When they ask what you’re doing, tell them in an equally loud voice, “I figured, if I have to listen to your conversation during my meal, I might as well join you so you don't have to talk so loudly. Please, continue. I’m sure everyone else in the restaurant is equally as interested in your bullshit conversation as I am. Or, tell the people you're talking to that you'll call them back, as all of us are in the middle of a nice, quiet, dinner."

They will call you names, so be prepared to smile, and tell them that you expected nothing less from them.

****************************** 

Should good people be liked by 50% of the world for eternity?

Good people should be liked, simply for being good. If people don’t like them, that’s their problem. I’m sure the good person is too busy doing good selflessly to really care if people like them. Because they do what they do selflessly, whether they are remembered should be of no consequence to them, as they have lived a giving and selfless life. This kind of life is something we should all strive to attain.

At 20, should I do more [on this site]?

At 20, you should be living more life.

What are the steps in successful meal planning?

As a Sicilian who loves to cook, I’ve learned to make all the dishes one day ahead. This gives the flavors time to infuse into the food, and any “pepper” a chance to mellow out. I serve everything lukewarm, so people can taste the flavors. I make simple dishes that everyone can try at home. I reheat the at 170 degrees so they can stay warm in the oven until served, which gives time for cocktails. And, I serve what people know, so they can judge how well I knocked the ball out of the park. 

Why do we love trying to solve a good mystery?

Those of us who do, love to exercise the part of our brain that always asks, “Why?”

What year did you graduate from college? What is your current job? How many years have you been at your job? What were your experiences while taking a psychology course? How did the psychology courses benefit you in your current career?

1972 was my last year of college. No "Associate's Degree" for me. I didn’t graduate. I was drafted into military service toward the end of the Vietnam “Police Action.” I majored in psychology, which garnered me a position in Air Force Intelligence. I never finished college, but I made a career in the military for almost 23 years. Truth be known, my military experiences in psychology served me well when I started my second career as a Corporate Liaison and as Manager of Projects and Standards for the premier Institutional Review Board in the United States, if not the world. 

"Since we replaced the compulsory military draft with an all-volunteer force in 1973, our nation has been making decisions about wars without worry over who fights them. I sincerely believe that reinstating the draft would compel the American public to have a stake in the wars we fight as a nation."

-- Charles B. Rangel

How important is your self-image?

It is what it is until it isn’t, and then, it is what it is again.

What are some things that annoy you when people say about your country?

People who find fault with the United States don’t understand the ever-changing concept. We learn, we change, and we grow. I pay so little attention to socialist ignorance. They need to ask themselves why millions of people are flocking over our “non-border” due to a minor mistake that caused political incompetence.

What is a quick reflection about not comparing yourself to others?

You are not them.

Is there a reason why people go to the beach in minimal clothing?

Less they have to dry? A desire to show off what they think they have? Make people that care, jealous? Make people thank care, lose their appetite? There are many reasons.

Is it possible that thinking or talking about someone makes them come to you or think about you, as well, because, oftentimes, it happens that someone I didn't think about for a very long time, I see them the next day, they text me, or I see them somewhere?

Could this be a case of Déjà vu?

“Déjà vu is simply remembrance of the future.”

-- Wayne Gerard Trotman

How do school teachers treat students who are on the verge of failing?

They should praise them for not reporting them to the school board for failing to teach. 

How do I tell my mom that I failed my final? She gets super angry about half a mark and I got 18.5/20.

How does 18.5/20, or 92.5%, equate to failure? My mom would have been dancing a jig. Tell her you were only 1.5 from a perfect score. Probably better than most nuclear physicists, which should scare the crap out of most of us. If she gets upset over ‘half a mark’, round it up and make it an even 2. If she screams, tell her you rounded it up because you knew how upset she gets over a pissy little half a mark. 

Why do you fail to take action?

The son of a gun is bigger than me. I can’t kick that high.

I accidentally wish for everything horrible to happen to me. What do I do? I'm scared.

How do you “accidentally” wish for this? All you have to do is “purposely” recant the previous wish, and tell karma you’re willing to do penance in lieu of “everything horrible” you “accidentally” wished on yourself.

Why don't people in Europe have achievements?

They expect everybody to achieve. We hand out “participation” awards because we expect nothing.

“Today's world is flooded with participation trophies. In an attempt to promote equality, we have robbed our youth of the most growth-inducing aspect of competition, failing. If you want to be resurrected, you have to first be crucified. Everybody wants to be reborn, but no one is willing to die. Losing, in the context of whatever arena it may be, is a microcosmic death. When we learn from our failures and grow because of them, we are reborn.”

-- Chris Matakas

When is it okay to laugh at a child's misbehavior?

Never. It acts as positive reinforcement. The child will continue the "misbehavior" because it elicits a laugh.

How do you always have something to talk about?

I'm basically full of shit, or, so I’ve been told. 

How can I motivate a child to learn a new language?

Move to a foreign country, in a region where they don’t speak your native tongue. They’ll learn faster than you will.

Why do some people feel proud or get a kick out of doing bad things?

They are, essentially, bad people.

Can we call ourselves intellectuals if we only have knowledge of one subject?

Yes, because you are intellectually proficient in one area of study. Otherwise, you be intellectually diverse and proficient in many areas.

“Intellectuals are judged not by their morals, but by the quality of their ideas, which are rarely reducible to simple verdicts of truth or falsity, if only because banalities are by definition accurate.”

-- Perry Anderson

What is it called when you lie, knowing the other person will then know the truth?

Stupidity.

Do you feel that the present is conditioned by the past or, more specifically, past patterns of behavioral activity?

Yes. By and large, we learn from the past so we can make things better in the present for our children’s future. Or, that was what we were doing before the socialist “Woke” and “CRT” bullshit came along. Now we fight to keep a past history we can learn from, so we have a reasonable present, and an acceptable future that doesn’t repeat the mistakes of the past.

What causes a person to become whiny in the first place?

An audience.

Can you wish for a lot of people to have a dream?

You can wish for whatever you want to. It probably won’t come to fruition, but you can wish till your heart’s content. People dream, however, so if you wish and people dream, it probably has nothing to do with your wish. Just saying.

 What is a self-introspection of an intellectual person?

You have to ask an intellectual person since they do the self-introspection of themselves.

“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”

-- C.G. Jung

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