Questioning Karma, Trust, Hips, Moods, Skeptics, and Shame

 

“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

When we wish harm on others, does that prevent us from getting what we want?

If “karma” has any say in it, then, yes. Or, you can get what you want... and die. Wishing is almost the same as doing. If you wish them harm and harm befalls them, you will need to watch your back. Karma will be looking for an opportunity to even the scoreboard.

Why do people become egotistic?

Not all people do. Some are just trying to make it through each day.

How do you deal with people that want to disrespect your self-esteem?

I ignore them. I know who and what I am. Nothing they can say or do can take that from me. I am, and they need to deal with that.

Why do people want everyone to be perfect to fit in society?

What they want people to be is impossible. Nothing is “perfect” in the universe. People can be “levels of excellence,” but nobody can be “perfect.” People are generally ignorant when it comes to expectations.

How can intelligence affect someone's ability to become enlightened?

They will pick the moment apart instead of letting the “enlightenment” happen. 

Why are people emotionally invested in defending the status quo?

If the “status quo” is maintained, they don’t have to learn to do anything new. “Status quo” is the way things are now. People are generally lazy when it comes to learning new things.

“Status quos are made to be broken.”

-- Ray A. Davis

How can experts become more trusted?

By making fewer mistakes than non-experts.

Why do some people bully others but cry instantly when they get bullied?

Bullies are, in reality, pussies acting out so people don’t see the real them. If they were comfortable with who they were they would treat everyone nicely, and try to get along.

Why are aunts, such stupid people?

If you have a problem with your aunt, please don’t put my aunt in your problem.

What's up with people and egotistical competition?

They think they have something to prove. In reality, they don’t. Punch them in the face and they drop like everybody else. Their “ego” does them no good.

What makes people think they are bigger than God?

An extremely inflated ego… and a glass jaw.

How do I send a person away from my girlfriend?

Talk to your “girlfriend” first. Your “jealousy” might be misplaced. There could be a reasonable explanation of why she is with them. Then again, if you send them away, she might go with them. If she does, you have some introspection to consider.

“Anger, resentment, and jealousy doesn't change the heart of others-- it only changes yours.”

-- Shannon Alder

Can tight hips have an impact on your spine?

That depends on what she does with those tight hips.

How do atheists feel knowing they will be Satan’s slaves in hell?

If they don’t believe in God, what makes you think they believe in Satan? When they die, that’s it. No heaven, no hell, and no afterlife… unless they have to live this life over, again, and again, and so forth, to see if they ever cop a clue.

When do we realize that human reality is an illusion?

When you experience a psychotic break.

Can you see a woman as more than just her body?

Once I get close enough to know her I can see more than her body. Until then, her body speaks volumes. The bigger she is, the more volumes there are to read. It could take some time. Just saying.

My vagina moved to Newfoundland. What should I do?

Well, playing with yourself is out. Or, are you talking about your girlfriend?

What do you do if your girlfriend has a way higher sex drive than you?

Get over it. This is all about her, and your choices. If you can’t keep up, there is probably someone who can. Your “choices” depend on whether you want to be with her for the long term. The other choice is ménage à trois.

“No matter what deal-breakers are negotiated upfront in a ménage, someone always ends up freaked out, in a wicker chair across the room.”

-- Rodney Ross 

What gets you in the mood?

A great set of legs that are attached to a nice, tight, butt.

What are some signs that a husband may think he is superior to his wife?

He’s become an idiot.

How'd you get such a fun, naughty, open mind?

I worked at it.

What do you do when your wife is angry with you?

I divorced her. I’ve been ecstatically happy ever since.

Is sex the one and only driving force in life?

If it were, life would be shortened considerably.

What increases the sex drive in men?

A good-looking woman… or, a man, depending on how you swing.

“If we all knew that we were all perverts, we might be a lot happier.”

-- Heather O'Neill

Unbelievers and skeptics have tried so hard to disprove Christianity, but they all failed. Why?

You can’t disprove what can’t be proved. This is why we call it “faith.” Faith is a belief in something for which there is little or no proof. Atheists and theists all have “faith” that they are right, and they insist on arguing the point, even though they can’t present any proof to back up their beliefs. What both sides end up looking like are two jackasses braying at each other. 

How do I please a mature woman in bed?

She will show you, and you will be amazed.

Do you know everything? If not, then you are a puppet, aren’t you?

Nobody knows everything. By your thinking, we are all puppets. A puppet has to have a “puppet master” to pull the strings. Many of us have a free mind, so we choose when we will do, or not do, anything, regardless of the “puppet master’s” desire. I suppose the “puppet master” is anybody we believe. I can be a “puppet master” for that matter, but I choose not to be. It is my choice.

Why do people fail countless times?

They’re looking for success that will save time, lives, and money. Failure is the best way we learn.

How can you be so proud of yourself that you can't fail?

Everyone fails, at one time or another. You should be proud that you do fail. Failure allows us to learn where we went wrong, and how we can not make the same mistake again. Failure allows us to make things better. We are as far as we’ve gotten because of failure and our perseverance to succeed in the face of it.

Why do people disappoint God?

We are only human. We’ve been trying to atone for the “apple” ever since.

“Do you, good people, believe that Adam and Eve were created in the Garden of Eden and that they were forbidden to eat from the tree of knowledge? I do. The church has always been afraid of that tree. It still is afraid of knowledge. Some of you say religion makes people happy. So does laughing gas. So does whiskey. I believe in the brain of man.”

-- Clarence Darrow

Why do people shame people in God?

People constantly exercise their hypocrisy. The people who shame are at least as guilty, or more so, than those they shame.

Why do we judge people until we become their friends?

We don’t do this. Some people do, however, and it is wrong. You should find out why they are before you judge them for being. They may have an acceptable reason for being the way they are. Before you judge others, judge yourself. The mirror never lies. 

How do I finish having sex?

Many like to have a cigarette. Personally, I like to smile. Different strokes…

Is it acceptable to think that pretty women cannot be good co-workers? Why can't I hate them as people, since they're self-centered and narcissistic and seldom collaborate or have professional attitudes?

No, it is not acceptable. Why do you bunch all pretty women in the same basket? I have worked with many drop-dead gorgeous women who were consummate professionals doing their work. You are working around the wrong class of “pretty” women, to my mind.

Why do people push their beliefs on others and demand they believe that way?

They like to waste their finite time instead of living life.

Why won't people admit not everyone thinks like them?

They can’t be wrong, therefore, everyone must think like they do, or their idiots. I run into this with the League of the Perpetually Offended. They are offended by everyone, even those in the League, because no one thinks like them, even themselves. People are free to think for themselves.

“People get addicted to feeling offended all the time because it gives them a high; being self-righteous and morally superior feels good.”

-- Mark Manson

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 view any more right or wrong than the other. Opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form their own opinions, 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 while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion in an arena of mutual respect concerning those opinions offered. After twenty-three years of military intelligence, I believe that engaging each other in this manner, and in this arena, is a 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 United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. Following his service career, he spent 17 years working with the premier and world-renowned Western Institutional Review Board, helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. He also served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Angela J. Bowen Foundation.

Ordained in 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As a weapon for his war on intolerance, he chose the pen. He 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 personal, spiritual path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Questioning Logic, Evolution, Transforming, Life, Atheists, and Perfection

“I mean, you could claim that anything's real if the only basis for believing in it is that nobody's proved it doesn't exist!”

-- J.K. Rowling

What should a person do if “how they are” and how they “process the world” (with ‘common sense’ challenges) comes at odds with someone who is more logical and does things the “right way”? What if that person is often frustrated and furious at them?

Logic isn’t always the way to go. It is logical, but not necessarily right.

Why should it be about eliminating the sick, the elderly, the weak, the ugly, the uneducated, and the poor, when it is easier to eliminate your complaints?

Why should it be, and who said it should be? The “sick” teach us how to be well. The “weak” teaches us how to be strong. The “ugly” shows us a sense of humor. The “uneducated” show us where we failed. The “poor” show us how to be truly happy always, and in all things, regardless of our circumstances.

Author's comment: Yet, are we not capable of teaching ourselves these things?

My reply: We are. However, few of us are willing to learn.

Two hundred people are interviewed about what fruits they like and all of them say they like oranges over apples, one of them has to be lying right, there’s no way everyone out of that many people likes oranges better?

It shows they are willing to work for the fruit. You can simply bite into an apple. No muss, no fuss.

Are humans innately evil or inherently good?

Inherently good, but many humans forget this. We find ourselves fixing problems we got ourselves into. The majority of humans walk the straight and narrow. Some of us, take a short detour into a bit of evil we think we can extricate ourselves from. The lesson is handed to us, and most of us learn a good lesson.

How do I deal with small problems?

With the least energy, and then, let them go. They aren’t worth the time you’ll give them.

How do you know God is perfect?

I don’t. But, I have faith, and “faith” is a belief for which there is little or no proof. I have much “faith” that God is perfect, regardless of what the Bible says.

“Expectations and faith can go hand in hand or they can run counter to each other. It all depends on where our expectations are placed. Are they placed in the outcome or are they placed in who He is? You see, if our expectations are anchored in the outcome, we will be disappointed and lose faith when the outcome does not match up with what we expected. God’s goodness will come into question, and we will be in danger of losing faith in Him.”

-- Mark Allen Moore

Why would a person not want to go to a better place and evolve?

They are truly happy with who and where they are. Why "evolve" just to be miserable?

Can a person freely decide to do something if they are standing at a crossroads or are deeply conflicted about something?

Contrary to popular belief, a person’s mind is free and, therefore, can do whatever it's capable of. If a person standing at a crossroads, or is deeply conflicted, make a free decision and carry on.

Can one succeed in life without a driving license?

Many successful people live in New York City and utilize mass transit.

Are there truly stupid questions? I mean, are there questions that you should not ask, or people would immediately label you as stupid?

There are no "stupid" questions if you don’t know the answer. I ask “stupid” questions all the time. But I preface the question by saying, “This might seem like a “stupid” question, but I have to ask…”

How do I cure intellectual arrogance? I can’t seem to change my beliefs even when I’m wrong. How do I change that?

Understand that it makes you look stupid. Do you want to look stupid?

Why do we lose our train of thought whenever walking by someone unknown?

She has a great set of legs and a nice butt. That will derail my train of thought for several minutes. Then, I have to remember what the train of thought was. It wasn’t that important, so remembering was not as crucial as thinking about her ass.

“Inside the human mind, an idea is a mental spark that occurs as a response to the challenge of a train of thought.”

-- Eraldo Banovac

How do I transform from a skeptic to a believer?

Validate the truth. When you have validated the truth, your denial would make no sense.

How do I deal with stupid people at the workplace? I mean, so stupid that it is annoying.

Letting stupid people annoy you, shows you are losing and “stupid” people are winning. It is one reason why I ignore the League of the Perpetually Offended.

Who is the greatest person ever?

Buddha.

Do people, who aren't part of any fandom, act like they know everything about every fandom?

I’m not, and I couldn’t care less. There are more important things in the universe than knowing everything about fandom. Some people need to get a real life. 

Do you think rich people get away with pedophilia?

Money speaks in whispers. It isn’t right, but do the kids love money as much as the rich?

Are there billions of people just like me?

No. You are a singularity, like everyone else. No two people are just like each other. Even “identical” twins are not perfectly identical. From a microscopic perspective, nothing is the same. They may look the same, but they aren’t.

“Being human makes us one. Being uniquely ourselves makes us individual."

-- Nancy S. Mure

What if I can't do this life thing anymore?

Then, there is only one option… and it sucks… for a short period. “If you can’t do this life thing anymore” then you probably haven’t lived life to the fullest or understood what you have lived… so far. Life is full of glorious lessons… and some that suck. For the most part, we are here to learn. If you can’t do this thing anymore, you’ll end up right back where you are again, and again, and again, until you understand the purpose of life. Better that you tough it out and try to make the best of it. 

Do you agree celebrities lie through their teeth when they say go after your dreams when really they should be telling people go after opportunities and play to your strengths only?

"Opportunities" might not include your dreams. Sometimes, the opportunity is what your dreams make.

What do you do if you've just realized you've been living life too seriously?

Lighten up.

Can you explain the concept of "nothing exists but mind"?

I can explain the concept by calling it bullshit. If your mind doesn’t exist, my mind will continue to recognize what reality looks, feels, and sounds like. Everything exists if it’s in the "physical" realm. To say that nothing exists but the mind is delusional.

What do you do if the idea of one life to live really bothers you?

Live longer.

Why in marriages is the groom mostly older than the bride?

It stems from the older man being the moneymaker and the younger woman wanting him as a husband. This is going away, however. Women are becoming the moneymakers, and the men are trying to catch their eye. Men are becoming the “golddiggers” that some women used to be accused of being. Oh, how the tables have turned.

“Now, I believe it is time for the groom to get ready." He points toward the back pew. "Suit's in the bag there. Private room is just a little ways down the hall. Go get pretty--but take it easy on the lipstick this time.”

-- Nicole Fox 

It makes me uncomfortable that there are atheists. What should I do?

Ignore them and pay attention to theism.

Why is society set up to give more than receive?

Because giving is so much better than receiving. If you’re receiving you are lacking, and no one wants to be known as lacking, for anything.

Does God use signs?

We assume so. We just can't prove it.

I am single and I am looking for a girlfriend. What should I do?

You’re supposed to be looking for a girlfriend, not cruising this site for info. Rule #1: Go out and look for a girlfriend. When you find one, ask her out for a date. If she’s the one, everything else will fall into place. Trust me. If she isn’t, try, try, and try again. Finding a real girlfriend isn’t that easy.

My mom talks about God a lot. What do I do?

Pay attention.

As an atheist, who's guiding your life?

I’m a theist, and I guide my own life. I thank the omnipotent creator of everything for giving me this chance to live a glorious life in paradise.

“Faith.

It is the unwavering belief in the unseen.

A guiding light that illuminates our journey

Through the shadows of uncertainty.

Keep it.”

-- Monika Ajay Kaul

How can we know if God is perfect?

Have you taken a critical look at mankind? 

I have two friends and one of them is lying about the other. I don’t know who though. What should I do?

Confrontation. Get them together. Tell them, that one is lying about the other, and it just pisses you off. Let them work it out. The liar is not your friend, so no worries about losing them.

How can one determine if they are asking for too much from God?

You can’t ask too much from God. Whether God pays attention, though, is another matter.

What should we believe in, if anything at all?

You should believe in yourself, first and foremost, and then you can start working outward to other people and things. If you can’t believe in yourself, how will it be to believe in anything else?

I love to masturbate. What should I do?

Aren’t you doing enough?

What do you do if God has full control of your body?

If God, the omnipotent power in the universe, has full control of my body, there is little this piss-ant human can do about it but wait until He lets me go.

“The legitimacy of something is not dependent upon my ability to explain it, for my inability to explain something often evidences the legitimacy of that which I seek to explain.”

-- Craig D. Lounsbrough

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 view any more right or wrong than the other. Opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form their own opinions, 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 while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion in an arena of mutual respect concerning those opinions offered. After twenty-three years of military intelligence, I believe that engaging each other in this manner, and in this arena, is a 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 United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. Following his service career, he spent 17 years working with the premier and world-renowned Western Institutional Review Board, helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. He also served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Angela J. Bowen Foundation.

Ordained in 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As a weapon for his war on intolerance, he chose the pen. He 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 personal, spiritual path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Questioning Differences, Wrong, Questions, Enbyphobia, Answers, and Brains

 

"It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has."

-- Henry Ward Beecher

What do you think are the differences between wealthy and poor people?

The wealthy have a lot of money, and the poor don’t.

Why is everyone on [this site] so rude and judgmental?

They are charter members of the  League of the Perpetually Offended.

Why don’t criminals care about the consequences?

They live in New York City.

Why don't people like “burn for eternity” questions in their feed?

They’re atheists.

Why do so many people think Americans are stupid?

We make more money than they do or they want to call us “stupid” first.

What is something people do but don't admit to doing it?

Masturbation.

“I wanted to put a reference to masturbation in one of the scripts for the Sandman. It was immediately cut by the editor. She told me, "There's no masturbation in the DC Universe." To which my reaction was, "Well, that explains a lot about the DC Universe.”

-- Neil Gaiman

I say wrong things, but I don't mean it in a bad way. What should I do to avoid this again?

Think about what you’re going to say before you say it. It only takes a moment.

When and where should I be straightforward and honest? I don’t want to fall for traps for my honesty.

Always be straightforward and honest. You can’t fall for “traps” if you’re always honest and straightforward. Traps won’t exist, except in the mind of the trapper.

What types of people you would never help?

People who play games with your mind. You never know when they’re being serious.

Why do most rich people only care about rich people?

Why do working people seem to care about working people? It is the circle they are in, and they choose to take care of their own.

What are your thoughts on “ethical thefting”?

It makes no sense. "Thefting" is not a word, and there is nothing “ethical” in theft.

Why are people scared to speak the truth? What is there to fear?

A leader to his people: “We are all going to die, but, we should die trying to live.” What is feared is certain death. It would be better to leave out the obvious and tell the people to try anything to live.

“Never tell the truth to people who are not worthy of it.”

-- Mark Twain

What are some good questions to ask teens this summer to make them think? Things not covered in school. Maybe fascinating trivia, weird facts, important topics, etc.

Why are there “soup kitchens”? It helps if they have the chance to work in one. The “obvious” answer may not be the ones they find. It can be an eye-opener for them.

Why are the two biggest loser celebs always bragging? Lebron has now lost 9 times in a row to the Denver Nuggets. Trump is the biggest loser Presidential candidate in American history.

Talk about clueless.

How does one become an evil person?

Constantly do evil deeds and have no conscience while doing them. Being a “good” person is not in your wheelhouse.

Why do I feel super weak when I'm hungry? Is it normal with everyone else?

“Super weak” does not sound normal. It sounds like your biological balance is off. Try taking natural supplements like “Balance of Nature” and see if it helps, but talk to your physician first, as it could be more serious than a supplement could help.

Why are there a lot of agents on the internet that say therapists care about you when they clearly don’t?

Clearly, you are seeing bad therapists, if they don’t care about you.

What can I do about this? I was scheduled to work Wednesday and Thursday. They called me at the last minute before my scheduled start, wanting me to come in. The day I was scheduled, I was told the assignment was complete. Am I in the wrong here?

No. The employer needs to get a grip on reasonable scheduling, and communication. This is no way to run a business.

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

-- George Bernard Shaw

Enbyphobia isn't wrong. We just know that there are only two genders and don’t want pretenders to spread their lies. Who’s with me?

It isn’t wrong, but it is a bit more confusing for those who aren’t “pretenders” spreading lies. Pretenders spreading lies usually don’t commit suicide due to their confusion and non-acceptance. There is a real psychological issue that has been with us since the beginning of time. It needs to be understood, and not have another confusing name put to it.

What questions do you have about the history of psychology?

None whatsoever.

Where and why is evil found in a person?

You have answered the first question, as “evil” is found in the person. “Why” might be traced to bad parenting, the wrong acquaintances, a psychological break from all that is good, they feel being evil completes them, and so forth.

What do you do when you need God's wisdom, but can't find it anywhere about a certain problem?

You’re trying too hard. Maybe the “problem” isn’t that important. Try letting it go.

Why does everything I do, no matter what I put into it in my life, fail?

I see that you live. Living is not a failure. Our choices and decisions are the basis for failure. Take more time to consider what you choose and decide, before taking any action. 

If Elon Musk has ten children and you have none while working, what kind of leader does it make Elon Musk?

A leader who knows how to schedule his time.

“Taking just an hour off from your busy schedule and working on your own health can do wonders for you.”

-- Pooja Agnihotri

Why, on multiple choice questions, is it that there's usually an entirely ridiculous answer?

It separates the wheat from the chaff. Those who study, and those who try to “get by.”

How do you get a person who lives in chronic shame, is prideful, cannot look weak, and pushes feelings away, to be honest with themselves about their choices and issues?

Work on the “chronic shame” issues with their character. Everything else is there to cover up the chronic shame they feel. While you are working the “chronic shame” you can hammer them for their choices and issues. At some point, they will break. This will be the time to point out the “issues” to address.

Author's comment:  How do you accomplish this? What steps are needed, how much do you push? How do you get through the walls?

My reply:  My bad.  Five minutes ago, you upvoted my answer. Four minutes ago, you asked this question. I have to chuckle. My answer is this: It is different for everyone. From what I understand, from what you've said, don’t let them use their pride to cover their weakness and dishonesty about their choices and issues. You need to bring all this into the light so they can’t deny them. They will have to deal with them and overcome them. Without all this, the “chronic shame,” they have buried, will never come to light. 

Author's reply: I may have to leave before that ever happens. He gets angry, sighs deeply, shuts down, and sometimes becomes mean and tries to gaslight or manipulate. I need him to do the work, or I will be forced to leave. He tried for 8 years, with 9 women. Married, single, kids, no kids, fat, skinny, in state, out of state, in the country out of the country. Not a single one wanted him. He is screwed if I leave. He will either end up with a woman like him, or paying for intimacy. He will be lonely. I will be fine. I am a good person I am fine being alone. I am in therapy, I am working on getting my GED and college classes and a job so I can take care of me and my kids. I am not a cheater, homewrecker, nor would I ever feel proud of hurting someone I love, or anyone really. I would never do what he did. And I have seen the women he tried and failed at. I am the better choice. And it's his loss. He did this. Not me. He has to live with who he is. Not me. He will never do better, he will never be happy. He will not grow if he doesn't do the work. This is my last effort to understand and to give grace

My reply: Indeed. 

Is it better to be someone the complete opposite of you or similar to you?

Similar to me. The “complete opposite” would be a person with no value for life.

Sometimes I wish everyone else could accept my disabilities instead of laughing at them?

Laugh along with them. If you don’t, you will seem like you don’t accept your disabilities. Being able to laugh at oneself is a way to make others comfortable being around you. We are who we are and nothing will change that fact, so you might as well go with the flow. 

Why do Singaporeans always like to ask this question, "Who are you?"

They are looking for an honest answer.

Why would God permit problems in our lives?

God gave us responsibility for our lives. Life provides lessons that we need to learn.  He gave us free will and everything we need to lead righteous lives. It is up to us to get on board. You can lead a selfless life or a selfish one. The choice is all yours.

“Faith, in its most correct form, never removes responsibility; it removes fear of responsibility. The results are complete opposites with the greater saying, 'God's will is my delight.”

-- Criss Jami 

Are human brains the same?

By and large. It is how we choose to use it that makes all the difference. Some will find backroads and alleyways that will lead them to greater knowledge. Some will follow a path that will lead them astray. Mankind has been blessed with a sense of perseverance in the face of failure. We can use it, or we can sit down and give up. Mankind was also blessed with free will.

What is a complete or half failure in life for you?

Complete failure means I have not “persevered in the face of failure.” Not my style.

How strict and sharp should you be when dealing with stupid thinking?

I say, “That’s stupid.” and walk away. Of course, I have no filter. If they are approaching you from the realm of “stupid thinking,” there is little probability that their thinking will change just because you call them down. “Stupid thinking” is hard to get on top of without an argument. I hate to argue, especially against stupid thinking.

How do we know if humans can die?

We know the physical body dies. What happens to the “soul,” after that, is conjecture.

What are some tips for becoming a successful liar? Why are some people better at lying than others?

The “lie” has to follow a believable line of reasoning. You might need to back it with bullshit facts and collaboration, which will, also, need to follow a believable line of reasoning. A successful liar can spin a yarn that is so convincing, that even those who think they know the truth are questioning what they thought they knew.

Is it sometimes necessary to walk away from a person even if they are worth fighting for?

If they truly love you, they will follow you out the door and hold tight to your hand. If not, no loss.

“For me, there's only a couple of things worth fighting for. I'll protect myself and I'll protect a loved one. Other than that, I don't care. I don't care what you call me, I don't care what you say. It's just not worth it. It's not worth it on so many levels.”

-- Richard Bresler

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 view any more right or wrong than the other. Opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form their own opinions, 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 while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion in an arena of mutual respect concerning those opinions offered. After twenty-three years of military intelligence, I believe that engaging each other in this manner, and in this arena, is a 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 United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. Following his service career, he spent 17 years working with the premier and world-renowned Western Institutional Review Board, helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. He also served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Angela J. Bowen Foundation.

Ordained in 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As a weapon for his war on intolerance, he chose the pen. He 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 personal, spiritual path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Questioning Regret, Plans, Lying, Hostility, Enemies, and Trolls

 

“Youth can not know how age thinks and feels. But old men are guilty if they forget what it was to be young.”

-- J.K. Rowling

What's a thing elderly people regret in their lives?

Age.

Is it true that the world feels smaller as you learn more about it?

The opposite. I’ve been learning for 70 years.  The more I learn the bigger it gets.

Do you think the people who are often and easily offended are happy?

Not necessarily. If they “are often and easily offended” it can be tough to be truly happy. Being truly happy is constantly striving for true happiness, always and in all things, regardless of circumstances. 

Isn’t it true that I wasn't prepared for what telling the truth would mean?

Most people aren’t, but only you can tell whether you were prepared.

I lied in therapy and in a group and I now have a habit of lying about fake emotions to people to build rapport. It is like I am addicted to empathy from others. What should I do?

Stop lying. Lying in therapy isn’t doing you any good. You lie about “fake emotions” to build “fake” rapport. When do you plan on telling the truth? The only person these people see is a fake.

How do I not be responsible?

Don’t accept it. Not accepting responsibility is a great way not to be responsible.

“Most people do not really want freedom, because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility.”

-- Sigmund Freud

I have two coworkers who are friends. They never mentioned the other to me. I started ignoring one of them because I wanted the other one to ask me about the other coworker. My "plan" did not work. Why?

You tried to play an infantile game, and they didn’t bite. Why didn’t you simply ask them about the other person? It would have been the mature thing to do to sate your curiosity.

Have you ever said a hurtful lie for a good reason?

I have no filter.  A lie will be found out and hurt even more. Better to be painfully honest.

What is the best way to "not lean" on your understanding?

Develop an “open mind” and assume your understanding may be flawed, and it might not be. It is best to look at problems from numerous perspectives.

Am I the only person who is always honest?

I’m sure you’d like to think so, but no, I also have no filter.

Why am I the dumbest person in the world? I do everything only dumb people do.

Maybe you don’t think before you jump. Think about what you’re about to do. Will it seen as dumb by other people? What will be seen as smart? Can you try that, instead? You are not necessarily “dumb” as much as you might not think things through.

How can you be happy with your natural looks, when prettier faces always win?

I am who I am, and people appreciate me for that. Trying to be something that I’m not is pretty obvious. 

“You’ll never know who you are unless you shed who you pretend to be.”

-- Vironika Tugaleva

Do people who lie all the time about everything believe their own lies?

Not necessarily, most just like to lie. I think they want to see who believes their bullshit.

How can people find the repetitive, predictable, nonsensical, and tedious "entertainment" entertaining? Do idiots not experience media the same way as real human beings?

These normal "human beings" need to stop watching so much porn and start considering more “intelligent” programming. I'll consider the porn.

Why are my enemies low animals?

They might be thinking the same thing. Better that you try to make peace.

If I accidentally say something wrong, is it a sin and do I have to be extremely specific and check every word I say so that I don't accidentally lie?

No, it is not a sin. Being human, you can be an idiot without intent. You are correct, however, with your thought to check every word you say so you don’t look like a liar.

I'm a homeless person. I want to hear the wisdom of rich people, what do you have as advice?

Sell the laptop and get a job. You won’t become rich being homeless.

What do you say to a group of individuals who are entitled and feel that they run the world according to however they want with their own double standard and lack of accountability?

I remind them about “Madame la Guillotine” and how they play with fire. Their bullshit, like their inflated ego, soon hits the brick wall with a resounding splat. The crowd goes wild.

“Madame la Guillotine" is the younger sister, the ideological sibling of the 2nd Amendment; both were conceived of a need to purge overbearing governments.”

-- A.E. Samaan

Why do some people become hostile when you give away things?

You’re not giving away things to them.

How do you get treated if someone thinks that you are gullible?

If they’re an asshole, they treat you like you’re gullible. If they are nice, the other end of the scale, they will let you know that you’re acting gullible. If they're more concerning, they’ll help you get past it, without any embarrassment. I have no filter... and a great sense of humor. I'd be your friend and your nightmare.

We are told to just ignore rude people but is that really the best solution, because that’s technically letting it be known to them that they can treat people however they want without receiving any consequence?

You can ignore them after they are “called down” for being rude. They need to know people recognize them for what they are.

Why is it that people always want things to be fair? Like, if someone gets an advantage, everyone else gets upset. Why? I mean, really, so what?

Not everyone feels this way. For one thing, life isn’t fair, and most of us realize this. It would be great if everything is fair, but “learning” in life prohibits this nicety. Life wants you to learn lessons. If you don’t learn the lessons, life will beat you down until you get a clue, if ever. The lesson may span several lifetimes if it isn’t understood.

I identify as having a height of 6 feet 5 inches. Will you accept and affirm my height identity?

Why do you find this so important to you?

Why can some people think with logical reasoning and others can't? Is it just laziness or is there a difference in how the brain works?

Parenting, for the most part. They never were taught how to use logic when they reason. This is probably because the parents were also never taught how to use logic by their parents. One can understand this when they see how the parent’s life is not following any logical reasoning. From the parent comes the child, unless the child has climbed a rung or two higher… on their own.

“I am convinced that the act of thinking logically cannot possibly be natural to the human mind. If it were, then mathematics would be everybody's easiest course at school and our species would not have taken several millennia to figure out the scientific method.”

-- Neil deGrasse Tyson

How do I prove that my enemies are low animals?

So, you want to join them? Let it, and them, go. Life is too short for this shit.

Is natural evil part of why we are all mentally ill? Or is it not? Can we do something about this or is it out of our control?

According to “Genesis” in the Holy Scripture, Eve and Adam brought this onto us by eating the forbidden fruit. We are “mentally ill” if we don’t rise above it. We can do much about this if we strive to do what is right, instead of doing what is wrong.

People take my innocence as my foolishness and try to deceive me. What should I do?

When they try this, ask them what they’re doing. “Innocent” is not the same as “stupid.”

What strategies for managing emotions did you use as a bullied student to diffuse potentially volatile situations and de-escalate conflicts with your peers?

In high school, I surprised one of them by kicking him in the balls and then beating the crap out of him. I paid for it, but they never bullied me like that ever again. I learned to shame them in front of their girlfriends. They grew up and it soon stopped.

Does humor require intelligence? How are humor and intelligence related to each other? Is it a skill area independent of intelligence, or is it completely related to intelligence? Are people with good humor intelligent people?

Intelligent humor requires intelligence, otherwise it’s just slapstick.

How do I attack my enemies?

Unless you are in the military going to war, your enemies are not that important. So, ignore them. Life is too damned short to waste precious time on them. Climb above them. Rise above their attitude and leave them choking on the dust you leave them in.

“Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake.”

-- Napoleon Bonaparte

Why is it that whenever you open [this site], the first question you see on top is almost always a troll question?

I’ve never paid that much attention to it. If I come up against a troll, I keep on going, They aren’t that important to me, and shouldn’t be to anyone. They are “trolls” for a reason. Learn to ignore them.

What are the consequences of dishonesty and why do many people have issues with it?

The only friends you have, if any, will be dishonest. No one will believe you, ever. You may do jail time. Any quality spouse will ignore you. The issues are obvious.

In what ways can emotional intelligence contribute to developing resilience in students facing bullying, allowing them to maintain a sense of self-worth and confidence?

I had enough bullying in high school. My “emotional intelligence” told me to kick the SOB in the balls. He did not expect my short self to do that. When he hit the ground I kept kicking him, while constantly berating him in front of his girlfriend. I paid the price for my revolt, but by then I had built a shield of “self-worth and confidence” that would follow me through my 23 years in Air Force Intelligence.

Is it okay to always have a different opinion or to always disagree with what everyone thinks is okay?

If you “always” differ from what everyone thinks, everyone is stupid… or you are wrong.

Why do people feel like it's ok to lie and it's pushy to question someone even if you know they are lying? I've heard that people are trying to protect their privacy, but are they not also harming you?

First, their privacy has nothing to do with their lying. Calling them down for a lie won’t get you harmed. It might make them think twice about lying… since they aren’t that good at it.

Do you think if you are a loser you should hang around other losers because you must not drag anyone down to your level? Winners need to be around other winners because iron needs to sharpen iron and losers are a menace to society, am I right?

If you think you’re a loser, you are listening to idiots or you might think you have no self-worth. Know that idiots target the insecure, and everyone has some self-worth. I would be careful how I generalize “losers” as a menace to society. One may determine it is time to save a life… that might be yours.

“Stand up for the underdog, the 'loser.' Sometimes having the strength to show loving support for unacknowledged others turns the tides of our own lives.”

-- Alexandra Katehakis

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 view any more right or wrong than the other. Opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form their own opinions, 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 while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion in an arena of mutual respect concerning those opinions offered. After twenty-three years of military intelligence, I believe that engaging each other in this manner, and in this arena, is a 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 United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. Following his service career, he spent 17 years working with the premier and world-renowned Western Institutional Review Board, helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. He also served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Angela J. Bowen Foundation.

Ordained in 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As a weapon for his war on intolerance, he chose the pen. He 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 personal, spiritual path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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

Questioning Pretty, Envy, Arrogance, Reality, Suffering, and Capitalism

 

“The pretty ones are usually unhappy. They expect everyone to be enamored of their beauty. How can a person be content when their happiness lies in someone else's hands, ready to be crushed at any moment? Ordinary-looking people are far superior because they are forced to actually work hard to achieve their goals, instead of expecting people to fall all over themselves to help them.”

-- J. Cornell Michel

Am I actually pretty or are people lying to me? I feel and look so ugly 24/7, then people tell me I’m pretty.

You are pretty, and you are being too hard on yourself.

When I talk to people about vague concepts, most don't understand or want to talk about it; why? Is not everyone able or willing to think about consciousness, and imagining another level of being? Why can no one connect?

Because they’re “vague” concepts. A “concept” isn’t concrete as it is, so when you want to discuss a “vague” concept well, there isn’t much meat on the bone to hold a person’s attention. And, you want to discuss consciousness and “imagining” another level of being? On one hand, with two fingers, I can count the friends I can have this discussion with, and I may be able to hold their interest.

Isn’t this a smart question?

Uh… no.

What are the factors that make marriage more difficult today than it was in the past?

We tend to marry for the wrong reasons. We don’t understand the importance of the vows. We marry because we think we love them when it’s only the sex we love. We don’t understand what “forever” means. And, if you want to love someone, forever, why do they want to have sex with everyone else? It was so much easier when we took our time to get to know each other. 

Why do some people refuse to explain their actions or behavior when asked? Why do they claim to not know the reason instead of providing an explanation?

They are either embarrassed or stupid. Let’s assume they’re embarrassed, shall we?

Why should parents not lie to their kids?

It is confusing to the children. Is lying wrong or right? If your parents do it, it must be okay to do, right? So the parents call the child down for lying, and the child calls the parents down for lying, but the parents say it’s different. What? Lying is lying, and there is nothing different in it.

“I'm not upset that you lied to me, I'm upset that from now on I can't believe you.”

-- Friedrich Nietzsche

What is considered an envious person?

A person who covets what another person has.

What do you think of the flood of [this site] users posting ChatGPT replies instead of trying to answer questions themselves?

An answer is an answer, but, sadly, the users posting replies are ignorant of the answer until they get it from ChatGPT.

I run a pig slaughter. How do people feel about what I do?

Someone has to do it.

Is it true that there is no future without a past? If it is so, why is the future unpredictable? The past is no mystery.

That is a falsehood. A child is born and the future begins. Everything that happens after the child awakens is the child’s future. For the awakened child, there is no past before awakening. The past belongs to the parents. The past, for the awakened child, is a mystery.

What is the conclusion on the role that has been assigned to the state?

We’ll find out when it concludes.

Should fat people even be considered human or just sentient blobs of blubber?

All humans are “human” regardless of girth. To judge them as “sentient blobs of blubber” says more about the person judging them. One has to wonder who gave the person the right to judge them.

“We're all human, aren't we? Every human life is worth the same, and worth saving.”

-- J.K. Rowling

How do you deal with those who treat you arrogantly?

I ignore them. Most arrogance is caused by ignorance, and life is too short to deal with ignorant arrogance.

How do you get revenge on people who bullied you?

I was small, but I beat the crap out of one in junior high when his back was turned. In reality, when they all grew up, most of them realized the error of their ways. The one I beat the crap out of, pushed me over the line. I forgave myself for almost killing him with a tree branch and made certain I conducted myself with more control in the future.

What do you think about manipulation?

When I left the Intelligence field, I stopped thinking about it.

Could you live with toxic positivity?

I could, but I’d rather not if I had a choice. If I can’t make it non-toxic, I’ll find my positivity someplace else.

Why has everyone I have ever known for any length of time completely given up on me and decided I don’t matter despite never giving up on anyone else, ever?

Hanging with the wrong crowd who don’t give a shit.

How do I know when procrastination is just laziness and when it is due to real psychological havoc?

If one is honest with themselves, questions about “laziness” and “psychological havoc” would be one way. I have no “psychological havoc” so my procrastination is due to laziness, which I am well aware of.

“Never put off till tomorrow what may be done day after tomorrow just as well.”

-- Mark Twain

Why do people ignore reality? Why do they always teach lessons of humanity but they never help the poor and respect them?

Reality can be messy. My experience with teachers is that they like to teach, but they don’t like to get their hands dirty. This negates them ever working in a soup kitchen or shaking the hand of a poor person. As an interfaith minister, I have paid for the food, fed the poor, and shook more of their hands than I can remember.

How do I know how I actually look in real life, and how people see me?

How you “act” is how people see you. Trustworthy, personable, intelligent, mature, etc., is how people will see you. If you act like a doof, people will see a doof.

How do you trust?

Selectively. I trust very few people with what is valuable to me. I am friends with many people, but I am "close" friends with very few. It is one reason I hang out with many retired military and give respect to those who respect me. A doctor introduced him as Doctor So-and-so, and I introduced myself as retired Master Sergeant Villari. He looked at me crosseyed. I told him if he wanted to be known as a doctor, I wanted to be known as my military rank. I know I earned it. He laughed and shook my hand and said his name was Bill. Even this “trust” does not come without a price.

Why do evil people know they are doing wrong but keep doing it anyway?

This is going to sound matter-of-fact, but they are evil, and doing "wrong" is what they do.

Why are some people intimidated by the study of psychology and feel it’s a very difficult subject and not easily understandable?

Search me. I almost didn’t graduate from high school, but when I went to college I majored in psychology. I garnered a 3.2 GPA and never cracked a book. I soaked it all in and was going to get a letter from my professor for Stanford, but the military draft beat him to it. My psychology background got me a job in Air Force Intelligence.  

Can all mistakes we make as human beings be forgiven?

Yes, if you don’t keep making the same mistake. But, forgiveness is the purview of the strong, according to Mahatma Gandhi.

“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”

-- Mahatma Gandhi 

Are all human beings suffering?

Nope.

I don't love you, and I don't respect you. I just think that you are a bitch. Do you understand?

I don’t know you, but I respect your opinion as someone seemingly ignorant of what being judgmental says about a person. Is that understandable?

How can I make a stranger happy if I offended her by touching her?

Try asking her. But, for God’s sake, don’t touch her anymore.

Is it okay to not know sometimes?

It is okay to not know most of the time. The only stuff you need to know most of the time is what you need to know. Everything else is just crap that will get you into trouble if you don’t know what to do with it. This is why, in the Intelligence field, they only tell you what you have a “need to know.”

Can something illogical exist?

Joe Biden is the President of the United States. Ta-da!

What are some important self-awareness factors for someone studying psychology?

I always told people to not do as I do, do as I say. Nobody is perfect, and they certainly don’t need to act like they are. Be aware that you aren’t any “more” than the people you try to help, you are just screwed up differently.

“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.”

-- David Richo

Why do people in very capitalist countries not like to tell the truth and tell people to “be nice”?

Not every person does this. Telling the truth is the first tactic, and being nice is the second.

I believe my girlfriend was talking to and possibly sleeping with someone else in the past while we were together. I want to ask the guy if it happened. What’s the best way to approach asking him?

If you don’t trust her, what’s the point of this exercise? She will probably do what the guys will do - lie. The best thing you can do is trust who you are with… or let them go. If she’s seeing other guys, you are not what she wants to be with always.

What's worse than a stupid evil person?

An intelligent evil person. 

When someone identifies as something they are not, why must I agree with that identity?

You don’t have to. You have the right to work and live somewhere that identifies people for what they are.

When a friend asks, “Where have you been?”, how should one reply?

“Around.” They may be a friend, but some things friends don’t get to know.

In what situations would you say "it's not your fault" instead of "don't be sorry"?

If it is your fault, you accept responsibility and you have a lot of reason to be sorry. However, if it’s not your fault, why in the world would you be apologizing for it? If it is your fault, you apologize for it. If it isn’t your fault, you don’t apologize for it. It can’t be more simple than that. Of course, if you’re submissive, you apologize for everything and hope they spank you… hard… and long. Just saying.

“She wasn't afraid of him, and he liked that. He didn't want a meek mouse, no matter that he wanted someone utterly submissive. There was a difference between submissive and spineless.”

-- Maya Banks

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 view any more right or wrong than the other. Opinion, presented in this context, is a way of inciting others to think and, hopefully, to form their own opinions, 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 while engaging in peaceful and constructive discussion in an arena of mutual respect concerning those opinions offered. After twenty-three years of military intelligence, I believe that engaging each other in this manner, and in this arena, is a 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 United States Air Force Intelligence as a planner, analyst, briefer, instructor, and senior manager. Following his service career, he spent 17 years working with the premier and world-renowned Western Institutional Review Board, helping to protect the rights of human subjects involved in pharmaceutical research. He also served 8 years on the Board of Directors for the Angela J. Bowen Foundation.

Ordained in 2013 as an "interfaith" minister, he founded the Congregation for Religious Tolerance in response to intolerance shown by Christians toward peaceful Islam. As a weapon for his war on intolerance, he chose the pen. He 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 personal, spiritual path toward peace and the final destination for us all. He resides in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where he volunteered as the lead chaplain at a regional medical center.

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