Solitude, Introspection, Issues, Lessons, Truth, Acceptance, and Forever

“Let me tell you this: if you meet a loner, no matter what they tell you, it's not because they enjoy solitude. It's because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them.”

-- Jodi Picoult

 

What is the value of solitude and introspection in a society that values busyness and constant social interaction?

Priceless.

Should we blame ourselves only for the mistakes of life? Or, should we blame nature?

Why would you blame nature, for the mistakes of people? If you build a house and nature takes it in a flood, why did you build a house in a flood zone? It isn’t nature that made you build it. 

Why was I born as myself?

Uh… you will always be born as yourself. 

Why do people care about what others think or say about them?

You are who you are, not what people think you should be. What do you care about what others think of you if you are doing right, good, and selflessly helping others? Why would you care if you weren’t? People don’t need to hear the history of your life to start rumors against you, any more than they need to hear praises of you from others, to raise you up. You are what you are, and it is up to you to change, if you think it is necessary.

What day is [this site] going to get away from the stupid questions?

When people stop asking what you think are “stupid” questions.

Why do I feel a sense of "calm" and "joy" when I realize I’m gonna die at some point in my life?

Death comes to all of us in time. To fear it makes no sense, especially if you believe in a life after. To feel a sense of calm and joy would make much sense if you believe in what will come. Those who don’t have these beliefs are the ones who should be afraid. For them, dead is dead.

"When your time comes to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home."

-- Tecumseh 

If you could instantly solve one global issue, what would it be and why?

Hunger. Adults can handle it, but the children... not so much. 

Why is your identity so important for you?

It is who I am. My identity is not my name, it is more than that. It is my code of conduct, my code of ethics. It is so much more than an I.D. card. Everyone needs to own their “identity” in life.

If you could name 3 positive benefits humans gave to nature, what would they be?

Reforesting, game limits, and putting the wolves back into Yellowstone.

Should you accept your lot in life and give up?

No. You should make your life and never give up. Life is all about learning, and giving up is not conducive to learning. Fight for the life you want, and never give up. Even if you only get a smidgen of the life you fight for, you are that much closer than you were.

Should I stop living to avoid God?

You asked the question. Only you have the answer.

What are some lessons that you wish you learned earlier?

I wish I had been indoctrinated into the paranormal at a younger age. I recognized my abilities around 13 years of age. I have been an avid paranormal investigator ever since. I have five large gun cases full of investigative equipment. I use them when needed.

“Life is all about finding yourself through experiences, and about learning more and more about who you are and what you’re capable of. If you’re getting older and not succeeding in anything or doing anything to make a positive impact on people, then you’re not living. You’re just waiting for death. Get out there and make an impact on people, whether it’s by helping them directly, or by doing research to make their lives better, or just by inspiring them. Do something good to be remembered for. This is more important than money.”

-- Zak Bagans 

Who can teach me the top lesson of my life?

You can be taught the top lesson of someone else’s life, but you will find your own “top lesson” as you move forward. And, it will change over time. What you think is the “top lesson” will be upended by the next “top lesson,” and so on.

What does it mean when your boyfriend says 'don't make him your world"?

He plans to leave, probably abruptly. 

Do you feel prepared for life, on your journey?

Absolutely. I strive for true happiness always, and in all things, regardless of my circumstances. It is a choice I have made, some time back.

How do you apply lessons learned in life?

I apply all my lessons, I have learned, and I’m still learning at 70 years of age. You never stop learning. I mean, you can never stop learning. It is why we are here - to learn. I will be learning on my deathbed, about death and the transition to the other side. Mom and Dad had no clue, but they transitioned. I will transition with my mind ready for what is to come - the next great adventure.

What is the simple most important task in life?

Learning… always.

When we die, where will we go?

That will depend on your beliefs. But, atheists and theists have no clue… yet. There is no proof for them to grasp, only faith in their beliefs. When they die, they will find the truth.

"Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside while still alive"

-- SRTK Law

What is truth, and is it true for everyone?

The "truth" is what it is - the truth. People will deny the truth, but… the truth is the truth, and there is NO denying it. The truth is the same for everyone because… it is the truth. To deny the truth is to show your ass, and no one wants to see that, maybe.

What are some things hitting you in your life?

It used to be my wife. I divorced her.

What can I do to be okay in life?

Strive to be truly happy always, and in all things, regardless of your circumstances. It is a choice you have to make.

How long is a eternity?

Make it equal to infinity. A really long time, that never ends.

How do you ground and effectively execute the decisions you make in life?

I think the decision through, to the end. The “decision” changes, several times, before it goes into action. If someone tells you they need an answer now, you don’t need whatever it is. Walk away. The deal will be back on the chopping block soon enough. Car salespeople have this habit.

Have you ever had a time in your life felt like a fuck up?

Yeah. Air Force Basic Training, in 1973. I got over it.

Reader comment: How did you get over it?

My reply: I muscled through it. It occurred to me it was just a game to get you to quit. I had it out with the Training Instructors over “tags” they found in clothes we had several people check. It was bullshit. I told them so. I got assigned to the supply closet. A cush job. 

“The more f#@ked up you are, the more I like you. As long as you've managed to hold onto your identity through all the shit, then it won't matter how twisted you are. I will love you more for it.”

-- Ashly Lorenzana

How can one learn to accept things that have already happened?

How can one learn to accept what has already happened? It happened. Accept it. A house burns down, do you have to walk through the ashes to prove what your eyes are seeing?

What, would you say, is truth?

I am truly happy.

What have you finally understood after a very long time?

True happiness. It took me 52 years to learn what was right in front of me all the time. I stopped beating my head against the wall and became truly happy always, and in all things, regardless of my circumstances. It was a simple choice.

Is philosophy the ultimate paradox of existence?

Not really. If anything, philosophy tries to explain the existence you live.

How do you get a boyfriend or tell someone you like them?

This is tough. Go up to them and say, “I like you.” And, don’t forget to smile. Ta-da! (I hate tough questions.)

What are the good things that can happen in life?

Oral sex always topped my list.

“Clinton lied. A man might forget where he parks or where he lives, but he never forgets oral sex, no matter how bad it is.”

-- Barbara Bush

How long does forever last?

For infinity.

Is it rare to have a crush on everyone?

Hell no. In high school, I had a crush on every girl I met. Even the homely ones. Then I managed to get laid. Oh-my-God! I started having crushes on girls who didn’t go to my high school. I was a hound dog.

What final words should I have before not existing anymore?

From a guy who contemplated this: “I’m an idiot” comes to mind.

Why are there so many young men who are stupid?

They aren’t stupid, they are ignorant. Why are there so many young men who are ignorant? Bad parenting comes to mind.

How do you want me to offer myself?

If you’re a woman, naked. If you’re a guy, ask a woman.

My whole life I’ve been called stupid by everyone around me. How do I fix this?

You have been called "stupid" by people without a clue. You aren’t stupid. You might be ignorant, or they might just pick on you for no good reason. If you are ignorant, you need to read… everything. If you think you aren’t ignorant, find another group to hang around with. Their ignorance is rubbing off on you. 

“When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.”

-- Mark Twain

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