Questions of Problems, Fights, and Teaching

 

“You don't cry when someone pushes you down. You get up. You get up and you fight back. And pretty soon nobody's going to shove you anymore because they'll see it's not worth it.”

-- Morgan Rhodes

What happens when you wait too long to have a medical procedure?

Worst case scenario? Death. 

Is it unfair to allow your parents to pay for your wedding and not allow them to invite any of their church friends?

Ya think?

Is all human knowledge relative? If that's true, what's the truth in life?

Everything is relative.  The real question, though?  Relative to what?  I'm not sure what knowledge being relative to has anything to do with "truth in life", but, I think the "truth in life" is that change is the only real constant in the universe.

“Any fool can know. The point is to understand.”

-- Albert Einstein

Why do people agree to things they know they can't do?

A very probably dangerous need to be seen as useful in the “temporary” eyes of others, depending on how big the blast will be.

What can some people say when they say "infinite patience produces immediate results"?

I would explain, “Unfortunately, the “immediate results” aren’t necessarily what you’re exercising “infinite patience” to attain. But, you go with that. I’ll be in the strip club across the street when you’re done or have had enough of patience.”

Do you know that popular or majority thought does not establish truth?

Truth is established by facts, not a popular majority vote, especially if that vote was rife with fraud. Was does establish the truth is when the lie becomes very painfully apparent. Beware of what is popular, or what the “majority” think they know. You may find the truth has been with you all along, you just couldn’t recognize it for all the bullshit the “majority” kept throwing into the ether.

"It is proof of a base and low mind for one to wish to think with the masses or majority, merely because the majority is the majority. Truth does not change because it is, or is not, believed by a majority of the people."

-- Giordano Bruno

Are you aware that all your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them?

Yes. And?

How can teachers maximize the strengths of behaviorism when applied to the classroom? How can teachers minimize the weakness of behaviorism?

I give real money if we could just get teachers to teach. Ignore the unions and do what they’re getting paid to do. It’s kind of a concept most seem to keep not understanding. Once they can teach facts, not opinion, and stop spouting political ideology, then maybe they can work on “behaviorism” in the classroom, as long as it doesn’t proliferate some insidious racist indoctrination like Critical Race Theory.

Why should you start a fight if you're gonna lose! Why start a journey that you won't finish! Is the problem humans have that no matter how hard they strive to find something the answer will always be the same?

Such negativity. I’ll always stand up for my ethical principles, especially to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Most freedom-loving people will do this, whether we win or not. Recently the leadership in the United States has forgotten self-respect. We have “tucked tail” and run away, leaving friends and countrymen to fend for themselves or die. This is not what we are about. Our leaders are, temporarily, cowards. We will rectify this, in short order, and go back to do what we should have done in the first place. We usually find what we look for, even if we lose it for a time, and the answer isn’t always the same.

“No one fights dirtier or more brutally than blood; only family knows it’s own weaknesses, the exact placement of the heart. The tragedy is that one can still live with the force of hatred, feel infuriated that once you are born to another, that kinship lasts through life and death, immutable, unchanging, no matter how great the misdeed or betrayal. Blood cannot be denied, and perhaps that’s why we fight tooth and claw, because we cannot—being only human—put asunder what God has joined together.”

-- Whitney Otto

Would you rather be Jeff Bezos or Bill Gates?

Divorced? I’m already there.

What if human beings have 10 minds?

Most of us already have a problem with “multi-tasking” so multiple minds would create the chaos of multiple personalities. I might as well be married again. 

What’s the biggest problem in your life, right now?

My car is in the shop for repairs, which wouldn’t be a problem if the grocery store was within walking distance.

“When you look at things from a different perspective your thinking begins to change but so often we see things as problems because we refuse to change our perspective.”

-- Sope Agbelusi

What is the happiest truth to life?

The happiest truth to life is life itself. The alternative is non-life, and that simply sucks. Better to strive for happiness always. Every morning, thank God for the gift of another day in paradise and another chance to excel in life. It is, after all, why we’re here.

Why do they say destiny can only be delayed but you can't run from it? Is it true?

It’s always good to look at the definition: Destiny: “The events that will necessarily happen to a particular person or thing in the future; the hidden power believed to control what will happen in the future; fate.”

What will happen, will happen, and you really can’t even delay it since the delay is already programmed into the event that will happen. How do you delay or run from something you have little or no knowledge of? Destiny can’t be delayed, nor can you run from it. It is what it is.

Is it important to have someone in your life to poke holes in your reasoning?

Yes! They are the “backboard” you bounce things off of; the second opinion we use to affirm our choices and decisions are sound. Without them, we wander through this life as best we can, hoping we will always do the right thing. A second or third, or fourth opinion is always welcomed.

"He who controlleth the backboard, controlleth the game."

-- Adolph Rupp

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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

Questions of Truth, Value, and Character

 

“Courage. Kindness. Friendship. Character. These are the qualities that define us as human beings, and propel us, on occasion, to greatness.”

-- R.J. Palacio

 

There is only 1 thing inside every reality that is being and that thing is the truth. To ignore any truth is to ignore that 1 thing and that thing is the self-being caused to be everything that is true about one’s self in reality. True or false? 

(I didn't send my answer to this question.  I read the following bullshit proviso and decided the question was bait thrown out by the League of the Perpetually Offended:  "A correction or critique must come from the examples one gives of what one knows of the reality in question. Therefore in this space do not critique unless to demonstrate from one's perspective."  What?  I don't play this game, especially when said question or statement sucks grammatically.  My unsent answer follows.)

True. No… false. Is this a trick question? I’ll give you the first sentence as true, the rest of it I can live without.

If you could create one thing by pure willpower, what would it be?

Permanent world peace. 

How can humans predict our own future?

We can’t. But we can make the good choices that will probably lead us to the future we choose, providing we don’t elect geriatric politicians suffering from senile dementia who destroy our future and everything we stand for.

“I have a foreboding of an America in my children's or grandchildren's time -- when the United States is a service and information economy; when nearly all the manufacturing industries have slipped away to other countries; when awesome technological powers are in the hands of a very few, and no one representing the public interest can even grasp the issues; when the people have lost the ability to set their own agendas or knowledgeably question those in authority; when, clutching our crystals and nervously consulting our horoscopes, our critical faculties in decline, unable to distinguish between what feels good and what's true, we slide, almost without noticing, back into superstition and darkness...

The dumbing down of American is most evident in the slow decay of substantive content in the enormously influential media, the 30 second sound bites (now down to 10 seconds or less), lowest common denominator programming, credulous presentations on pseudoscience and superstition, but especially a kind of celebration of ignorance”

-- Carl Sagan

How do you accept yourself in a world striving for perfection?

By accepting there is no such thing as perfection, and then striving to be happy always.

Which petty thing changed the way humans live their lives?

The mirror. Pretty trivial when put next to manned space travel, but how much time do you find yourself spending in front of a mirror?

What would you say if I told you to get your little dick fat ass up and f****** come work out with me because you were no better than me? How would that make you feel?

Offended that you haven’t been provided with the verbal skills to say this without sounding like a selfish ass. I’d also be feeling a bit confused as to how you thought, in any world, you could dictate my choices to me. I doubt I would give you the satisfaction of a response. I’d probably just laugh and walk away.

“Everything and anything we communicate to others, communicates to them, how to see us and treat us.”

-- Miya Yamanouchi

What does a person need if he doesn't need to be good?

Money for a good lawyer.

What are your thoughts on anti-vaxxers being fired?

We are a nation of freedoms. They have the freedom to not get vaccinated. The employer has the freedom to hire people that do.

What sort of “risks” do successful people take?

The ones they can afford. Taking risks they can’t afford will not guarantee their continued success. Sustainability is not based on gambling with success.

"Be willing to step outside your comfort zone once in a while; take the risks in life that seem worth taking. The ride might not be as predictable if you'd just planted your feet and stayed put, but it will be a heck of a lot more interesting."

--Edward Whitacre, Jr.

How does it feel when your partner makes you feel like you are worthless?

It makes me feel like looking for a new partner.

Author's comment:  But after 8 p.m. you get tired:-) You think, oh what, everything is fine the way it is going. I need this person for some things in my life, it is easier then. Other relationships are the same. What could I want more? There is nothing else for me. I can be glad that anyone lives with me and can bear me. There is no such thing as true love.

My reply:  Bullshit. Your choice is making no choice. The status quo is fine because you refuse to think you might be worth more than you are. Maybe this is fine, since you admit to using him for some “things” in your life. I just can’t understand feeling “worthless” is a choice I’d want to make for my life.

You’ve given up, and you want someone to say that's okay when even you know that’s bullshit. The “bridge of revelation” you seek is that you’re worth more than this same-o, same-o life. Maybe you should start by confronting your partner and explaining how you really feel. The answer should clarify where you stand.

What do you expect from a genuine friend? What are some qualities you admire in a person? How do these types of friends help you in life?

A good sense of ethics. Their good ethics keep me paying attention to my own. Our ethical values define who we are to other people.

What inspires you to continue living despite personal trials and tribulations?

Because the alternative simply sucks. My trials and tribulations are due to poor choices and decisions on my part. Nobody else has control of my life. I haven’t handed the control of my life over to someone else, so it must be me. I have to go back and correct all the poor choices I’ve made in order to make my life better.

"Be a bush if you can't be a tree. If you can't be a highway, just be a trail. If you can't be a sun, be a star. For it isn't by size that you win or fail. Be the best of whatever you are."

-- Martin Luther King Jr.

What shows the character of a person?

Their morally ethical behavior, or lack thereof.

I went to an amusement park with my girlfriend. I don’t like the rides, she does. We ended up doing none of the rides and now she is sad. What’s the right thing to do?

Find her a boyfriend, before she does.

What kind of energy do people need every day?

The kind of energy required to keep moving ever forward. The energy to persevere.

“The energy of the mind is the essence of life.”

-- Aristotle

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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

Questioning Goals, Values, and Ideas

“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”

-- Plutarch

Why do people who talk less have better ideas?

The most important part of communication is listening. They have better ideas because they shut their pie hole and actually listen to the crap and then come up with better. It isn’t always necessary to speak. It is always necessary to listen.

Which becomes your driving force to continue life and pursue your dreams?

Life would be the driving force for me. The alternative seems to really suck. Listening to the atheists, I’m not sure if you can pursue your dreams when you’re dead.

As a positive person, how do you tackle negative people?

Tackle them? I’d prefer not to even touch them. I give them a wide berth.

“You cannot expect to live a positive life if you hang with negative people.”

-- Joel Osteen

Is it right to express our ideas freely without examining the situation and the people involved? Why?

The chances of sounding like an idiot seem to be a good possibility. There is nothing wrong with freely expressing an informed opinion or idea.

What's some non-commercial item, benefit, or situation you have and enjoy that sounds too good to be true, but it is true, and when you try to tell others about it, because it sounds too good to be true, they don't believe you?

Constant happiness!

Do you think success is about intelligence or hard work? Don't you dare say both.

Hard work… and street smarts. Hah! Not the same as intelligence, but oh so much more important.

"What matters is hard work, and emotional intelligence."

-- Millard Drexler

If you will be given a chance to do everything within 24 hours (Everything is possible, everything is free, you can turn back the time, go back to your past, and everything will be yours for 24hours) What will you do?

I would go back and invest money in IBM, ATT, Mircosoft, Apple, etc., but my ex-wife would just take half of it. I go back and not marry her, but I have terrific kids and grandchildren. So, I guess I’ll just let the past be. Besides, everything I change would have a ripple effect on other people, so it’s probably best not to screw with time, lest someone die or not be born.  However, going into the future will tell you what to invest in, as well, when you get back.

What do you value the most as a person?

Family.

Is prosperity the goal of humanity?

Probably, but only because humanity misses the point. The goal of humanity should be happiness always.

“Our country is the best country in the world. We are swimming in prosperity and our President is the best president in the world. We have larger apples and better cotton and faster and more beautiful machines. This makes us the greatest country in the world. Unemployment is a myth. Dissatisfaction is a fable. In preparatory school America is beautiful. It is the gem of the ocean and it is too bad. It is bad because people believe it all. Because they become indifferent. Because they marry and reproduce and vote and they know nothing.”

-- John Cheever

How can you be a driver of change in these uncertain times?

Make so much more good sense than the idiots around you who think that good sense is common.

What are the risks when someone goes to a university when they are 40 years old?

From 30 on, they risk truly learning something. If they aren’t indoctrinated by 30, then chances are they won’t be. At 30, or older, the risk of them being so weak-minded as to be “indoctrinated” is less the older you get. This means, at 30 or older, they’ve actually gone to university for an education. It’s a concept, but it does occasionally happen. Finding a university that teaches truth, on the other hand, might be more difficult.

How can you set a goal you will always achieve?

Set the bar so low that just breathing will achieve it.

“You never know what's around the corner. It could be everything. Or it could be nothing. You keep putting one foot in front of the other, and then one day you look back and you've climbed a mountain.”

-- Tom Hiddleston

What is bothering you right now? Or what question is bothering you?

What makes you think anything is bothering me?

What do we call those individuals who see difficulties as an opportunity?

Tenacious.

What can you contribute to society for $5000?

Food. Soup kitchens and food banks will make great use of it.

“You may possibly become rich by just caring about yourself and what you want to gain from life but you cannot possibly enrich the lives of everyone you meet that way. The pathway to enlightenment and transformation and liberation is the heart, not the mind.”

-- Rasheed Ogunlaru

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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

Questioning Knowledge, Love, and Truth

 

“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”

-- Dr. Seuss

Why is the science of knowledge important?

There’s a science of knowledge? Sounds like something the Germans would come up with. Knowledge is important, and all this time I just thought we gathered knowledge and learned from it. Is there a science to wiping your butt? No, don’t tell me. I think I’d like to stay ignorant on that.

Do you want to think that you are good so you can deserve what you want?

I feel I deserve what I want because I’d have to be bad and immoral to get it. So, I’d have to think that I’m bad in order to deserve what I want. If I’m good, on the other hand, deserving something would rub being “humble” the wrong way.

Does God want us to deny our dreams, faith, and hope? Does God want us to deny our happiness and only live in misery?

God gave humans all they need to be successful. Humans create misery, for themselves and for others, and humans must learn from that misery. You have all the knowledge, dreams, faith, and hope you need to rise above misery. It is up to you to make the choice to continue to be the victim of whatever evil put you where you are, or to get on top of it. It is a choice.

Reader comment:  I agree. In my dysfunctional family, my mother did not want to work but used everyone in the family to benefit from them. This caused a lot of frustrations for those who were working to help support her and her deadbeat gambler husband. What is it you get in the end? Nothing but misery, and then she wonders why?

Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.

-- Luke 6:21

Trust in the Lord, and do good;
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

-- Psalm 37:3-4

Can you feel immense physical attraction and have the best sex in the world with someone, without feeling the love?

Isn’t “lust” the desire for “sex of a lifetime” with someone, and no commitment? I believe it is. I hope it is, anyway. I’ve lusted my entire life. I’d hate to find out I’ve been wrong as approach 70.

Why don't people tell the truth about telepathy?

Because they know what you’ll say.

Do we have to be searching to find the truth?

You only find something if you search, otherwise, you’re just lucky and stumble across it.

“I found goodness in the place that I once believed to be evil; and found evil in the place that I once always knew to be good! The truth is so far separated from where I thought it existed. It can be such a wild, unbound journey: the journey from the illusion into the truth. Some people take that journey, but more people don't.”

-- C. JoyBell C.

What kind of person turns everything thing they do wrong on you?

A lying little coward who can’t own their mistakes.

How do you sleep knowing that you are 40 and still poor?

Strive to be happy always, regardless of your circumstances. Whining and complaining aren’t going to help, and stress only makes you lose sleep. It is what it is until it isn’t, so you might as well be happy. The alternatives just suck.

When you are not telling the truth what are you telling?

Nothing.

“The truth is rarely pure and never simple.”

-- Oscar Wilde

Why do people always blame you for your unhappiness and never the ones who put you through it?

Why do you stay around the people putting you through it? Life is all about you making good choices. Some of those choices are distancing yourself from drama, debt, anger, and those who get you involved in it. Evil can only come inside your house if you invite it. It can break in, but it's your choice to let it stay or throw it back out.

If you work for a boss you don’t like, why are you working for them? It is your choice. If people put you through unhappiness, why did you let them do it? It is your life and your choice.

People blame you because, most of the time, we choose what happens in our life, or we choose to let someone else make decisions for us, or we choose not to do anything about it. Our life is, in all reality, about the choices we make or don’t make. And, not making a choice is our choice to not make a choice.

Better for you to own your life and just strive to be happy always.

What is the initiative for the thought to think?

The thought doesn’t think, you think of the thought. The initiative will probably be found in whatever impetus drove you to think in the first place.

What is self-imposed nonage? How does one obtain it and what happens to a person that frees themselves from it?

Shit happens, and when it does, it is what it is until it isn’t. Why one would want to “self-impose” this on themselves, is beyond me. Maybe, rampant immaturity?

“Enlightenment is man's emergence from his self-imposed nonage. Nonage is the inability to use one's own understanding without another's guidance. This nonage is self-imposed if its cause lies not in lack of understanding but in indecision and lack of courage to use one's own mind without another's guidance. Dare to know! (Sapere Aude.) "Have the courage to use your own understanding," is, therefore, the motto of the enlightenment.”

-- Kant Immanuel

What are some major problems and obstacles that need to be addressed in today's time?

How we vet the President of the United States.

Note to my readers:  I tried to publish this on the site that asked for it, but they won't allow it.  No big surprise, considering it's a liberal propaganda site.  I'm lucky to get half of what I'm answering published.

You have one option/choice. You can pick it, or give up your right to choose. Do you have one option/choice or two?

If you give up the right to choose, this is a choice. If you simply choose not to choose, this is also a choice. If someone forces you to let them choose for you, this is your choice to be forced into giving up your right. You have one option - to choose.

What are some of your regrets during your college years?

Oh, my goodness, I can’t remember all of their names.

“Though lovers be lost, love shall not; And death shall have no dominion.”

-- Dylan Thomas

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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

Questioning Life, Success, and Morality

 

“Young people are moving away from feeling guilty about sleeping with somebody to feeling guilty if they are *not* sleeping with someone.”

-- Margaret Mead

Do you have one life to live?

Nope. I’m here to learn what I can so I’ll be better prepared to move on down the road when this life is over. We live many lives full of necessary lessons. What we learn determines how far down the road we move.

Are you a man of success or a man of value?

Value. My value to others was the impetus for my success.

What would you choose, to live forever or die forever?

Live forever, which I will do, regardless, after I die. The only way you die forever is if you don’t believe in your own rebirth. That simply sucks. I have many more lives to learn from.

“Living forever is easy: be born again. (It's the relationship with your Saviour that's difficult)”

-- Abby Morel

What would you do if you knew it was bound to be successful?

Invest.

Did you know that Constitutional Liberty was: "Constitutional Liberty is the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views."?

I believe, then, the non-oppressive restrictions are part of the society’s “Rule of Law” imposed to keep order in a “free” society and not to control personal, peaceful, and creative, actions which don’t infringe on the rights of others.

Why are sexual fantasies seen as immoral?

They are? Who would have thought? Well, obviously the people who view it as immoral, right? So, if the fantasies are immoral, bringing them to fruition is probably more so. Well, that just sucks…

“The only limits that exist in fantasy are your own and this is the place where you can push them safely, testing yourself to find the places in your mind you may not know exists. Deep in these recesses you may find wants you never knew you had. Here, in this place, you have the freedom to luxuriate in unsated hungers.”

-- K. Kiker

Many people have many different beliefs on what they do not know about. What is the one thing that everyone knows (not believes) will happen to every single person and after that they do not know what will happen?

Death.

Why do you want to be rich? This is the common goal of everyone, but does it really make people happy?

I am already rich in life, but you question goes to monetary riches.  It depends on what you do with your monetary wealth. Are you selfish with it, or are you selfless? Being rich is the common goal of almost everyone. I have no need, personally, for wealth. If I had it, I’d build my “spiritual” center, then I’d be investing in animal shelters and children’s hospitals, and my time would be divided up sitting on the directing boards of the same. I think those who practice selflessness with their wealth are the ones who experience true happiness.

What is the greatest thing about being a father for you?

Being a father. That, alone, is the greatest thing for me. This is like asking me what the greatest thing about life is, and the obvious answer would be life. Some would argue their life is not worth living, but I would challenge them to try and change their life when they’re dead. Being a parent was fraught with challenges, and I did my best to address those challenges while holding a doomed marriage together for over 20 years. Was it worth it? Yes! I would not change being a father for the world.

“Listen, there is no way any true man is going to let children live around him in his home and not discipline and teach, fight and mold them until they know all he knows. His goal is to make them better than he is. Being their friend is a distant second to this.”

-- Victor Devlin

In what ways can names shape people’s personalities?

I was given two names at birth, “Frank” and “Anthony”. I’m not sure who started calling me “Tony” but I was sure happy they didn’t saddle me with “Frank”. Would it have shaped my personality differently? Well, a “frank” is something you eat at a ballpark, and high school would have been brutal to me.

What are the risks when someone goes to a university when they are 30 years old or above?

They might learn something. If they aren’t indoctrinated by 30, then chances are they won’t be. At 30, or older, the risk of them being so weak-minded as to be “indoctrinated” is less the older you get. This means, at 30 or older, they’ve actually gone to university for an education. It’s a concept, but it does occasionally happen.

“We don’t walk away to teach people a lesson. We walk away because we’ve learned ours” Do you agree?

It depends on the context. If this concerns an argument or a fight, I’d have to agree. Neither accomplishes much, other than raising blood pressure and stress. If the point is to actually “teach” somebody, I’d say to “walk away” is counterproductive to your goal. If you learned your lesson, why not help someone else learn theirs? Just saying.

Author's comment:Amen. I agree. That’s how one becomes a better person. Not just by simply “walking away” from everything.

“Most of us need something not to walk away from”

-- Josh Stern

Does language affect a person’s belief system, attitudes, learning process, and perspective about life?

Where you live might, but your language doesn’t. It is all about a person’s willingness to take advantage of any opportunity for education.

As a worker, why should I go back to work so quickly to my old job when I have seen that paid and conditions can improve? Why should I or anybody help my employer exploit my work for their gain?

Life is about making choices. Make a good one. Personally, I’d like to get paid while I try to change the culture from the inside. The worse they can do is fire you. The best they can do is listen. They also have a choice.

What did the advocates of socialism hope to achieve?

This is the best I’ve ever read to explain it:

“The useful idiots, the leftists who are idealistically believing in the beauty of the Soviet socialist or Communist or whatever system, when they get disillusioned, they become the worst enemies. That’s why my KGB instructors specifically made the point: never bother with leftists. Forget about these political prostitutes. Aim higher. They serve a purpose only at the stage of destabilization of a nation. For example, your leftists in the United States: all these professors and all these beautiful civil rights defenders. They are instrumental in the process of the subversion only to destabilize a nation. When their job is completed, they are not needed anymore. They know too much. Some of them, when they get disillusioned, when they see that Marxist-Leninists come to power—obviously they get offended—they think that they will come to power. That will never happen, of course. They will be lined up against the wall and shot.”

-- Yuri Bezmenov (1939-1993), former Soviet journalist and KGB informant

Reader-1 comment: They do make for the best memes. There was one journalism major back in 2015 Twitter who advocated a socialist takeover of the country under the belief he'd be “a uniform designer for the State”.

My reply:  Good evidence as to how far real “journalism” has fallen.

Reader-1 reply: The writing was on the wall back in 2005 when journalists backed off on the drug violence south of the border. Can't have the cities know what's going on by the border.  Where would their corporate "masters" get their labor if the border got secured?

Reader-2 comment: Let's clarify what we're talking about before we answer.  What “socialism" means or entails varies widely across the spectrum.

Most American liberals think it means free healthcare and higher education. Most American conservatives think it means the government takes over all industry “eventually".

As for me, I'm a progressive. When people say “socialism", I assume they're talking about universal healthcare or universal pre-K or something like that. Things that I would considered to be rights and necessities of an egalitarian society.

My reply: Never assume. You’ll find yourself in a gulag, making gloves.  This country is on the real verge of a revolution because most democrats assume their party thinks like you.  They don't.  Because of this, the democrats, as a whole, have become Yuri's "disillusioned" in the quote, above.

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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

Questioning Insight, Understanding, and Rock Bottom

“When I’m at the bottom looking up, the main question may not be ‘how do I get out of this hole?’ In reality, the main question might be ‘how do I get rid of the shovel that I used to dig it?”

-- Craig D. Lounsbrough

 

What are your insights or ideas about "The moment you say no to tyranny, you are beginning the struggle, the long lonely road to freedom."?

History answers this best. We, Americans, fought and died for the idea of freedom. We struggled, and continue to struggle, for the freedom of all people.

The Soviet Union collapsed, and Russia was handed freedom without the sacrifice necessary to burn the idea of freedom from Soviet control into their brains. Now, they are slipping back into socialism.

Socialism also wants to assert control over the United States. It is fortunate that so many of us remember the constant struggle we endure to protect our freedoms. Before socialism wins this political battle, there will be another revolution and the flag of freedom will still endure.

Are you able to understand what almost nobody can understand?

What?

Author's comment:  I meant to ask if you’re able to understand what many people can’t understand.

My reply:  And I was being facetious.  Gotchya...

Why does my partner demand only "yes" or "no" as an answer?

Demand? Sounds like your partner is suffering from delusions of self-importance. If what they want is “yes” or “no” and you have more to offer, you obviously can’t answer the question, so don’t answer. When they ask why you haven’t answered, explain it requires more than a simple “yes” or “no.” Demand? I’d kick their ass for just presuming they could ever demand.

“Maybe those sorts of yes-or-no life-and-death decisions are easier to make because they are so black and white. I can cope with them because it's easier. Human emotions, well ... they're just a fathomless collection of grays and I don't do so well on the mid-tones.”

-- Jasper Fforde

Is there a necessary minimal age to perceive the value of the truth after telling a certain amount of lies?

Most people learn not to lie at a young age unless they want to spend several weeks doing penance on their knees after confession in order to perceive the value of truth. What is a “certain amount” of lies? 100? 200? An occasional truth? No lie is ever acceptable.

Author's comment:  I totally agree with you. I'm 16 and all the lies I told are hurting now. I don't know if it's necessary to tell a minimal number of lies and feel disgusting after that to stop lying or at least lower the frequency. I don't know if lying frequently at childhood and puberty is part of the life of any type of human consciousness, especially the high-quality ones. And I don't know someone who can give me a satisfactory answer or if there's something for me to observe to find answers. All you said is right but not that much clarifying.

My reply:  At 16, you might want to look at building a “personal moral code of ethics.” If not now, then when? Better to write out your code of ethics so you can know when you violate them. Violating your personal code of ethics defines who you are, so if you want to be known by everyone around you as a liar, press on. As you get older the lies will become more damaging to you. Personally, I’d like to be seen as representing something a little deeper than that shallow end of the gene pool. Did that clear it up a bit?

What's the biggest accomplishment you've ever made in the span of one hour?

I made a butt-load of money on a stock purchase. The biggest failure was when I didn’t sell it high.

Is it best to follow your gut, rather than your head sometimes when starting a new career?

If you’ve had an “old” career, you’re probably not that naive.

“Follow reason, but don’t ignore that gut feeling.”

-- Debasish Mridha

Is anyone above a mistake?

No, and if they think they are they live in fantasy. Failure is the best way we learn.

Is there a level (or limit) of understanding where we simply will never comprehend, and it is wise to stop at that point and just accept this limit?

No. Understanding will always occur as long as people continue to question. What we don’t comprehend today, we will probably comprehend tomorrow. We didn’t accept “flat earth” or our inability to fly. We proved the earth isn’t flat and we have occupied outer space.

We comprehend the speed of light, anti-gravity, and quantum transport. There are those who agree that we comprehend these ideas, but also say they will never come about. It seems we still have much to learn about never saying never. Those who do, tend to wear egg on their faces. Not a great fashion statement.

What does “wokeness” culture hope to achieve?

The collapse of truth?

“The United States went from the undisputed leader in the "Idea Economy" to a censored and barren wasteland of 'wokeness' in one generation.”

-- A.E. Samaan

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. — Jacques-Yves Cousteau. What do you make of this statement?

I look at it as a spiritual feeling that those who have the opportunity really can understand. I grew up right on the Pacific Ocean, in California. I left there in 1972 and have felt the pull of the clear, deep blue waters of the Pacific ever since. I can’t really explain it, but there is a peace I feel when I sit in the morning fog and listen to the breakers crashing against the rocks. It truly “holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

What’s the best financial decision that you’ve ever made?

SHMP - I bought 120,000 shares of it at $.06/share. It went up to $.89/share. I sold 30,000 shares. It is now languishing at $.38/share until it gets its second wind. I thought about selling the balance at $4.00, but I might hold half of it just to see if it goes a bit higher than that. 

What is the best advocacy that promotes doing what is right and avoid doing bad things?

“Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.” 

-- Jeremiah 22:3 

What do you think of our world right now?

How our current administration, in the United States, has shown the willingness to turn its back on it. I only hope the world recognizes the administration does not reflect the will of the people of our country. Hold firm in your belief in us, as this too shall pass. Such is the purpose of “free and legal” elections, or revolution against the oppressors.

It’s been a long time since I received criticism. How do I handle it?

If it is deserved, with grace and humility. If it is not deserved, then smile and continue on your path. The truth will out. 

When you hit rock bottom did you feel you were drowning with so many obstacles in your path that kept pulling you under? How were you able to bounce back eventually and overcome the impediments and how long did it take you to reach where you are now?

“When you hit rock bottom” nothing could pull you further under, as you’re already at rock bottom. The good thing about rock bottom is that you can’t go any lower. No matter what you do, you can only go up from there.

If you put the barrel of the gun in your mouth and, at that moment, understand the reality of your failures, you also understand that you have the choice to learn from them and become stronger in the process. Or, you can choose not to learn anything, in which case you will continue to exist at the “rock bottom” of your life… or not.  Again, your choice.

Whether you are at rock bottom of your own volition or due to someone else, I think there are four choices we are constantly confronted with in life: Choose to make a choice. Choose to make no choice. Choose to learn from the choice. Choose to learn nothing from the choice. 

Life is about the choices you make concerning the circumstances you find yourself in. Make good choices and, for God’s sake, take the gun out of your mouth. I’ve found that it really solves nothing. It took me five years to become aware and to climb back up from my own pit of despair with the help of loving friends. I had to admit that my despair was not as deep as some. I’m certain that the time it takes to "bounce back" is relative to the circumstances you are wrestling with. Strive to be happy always.

“When you decide to hit rock bottom, humiliation is part of the deal.”

-- Guillaume Musso

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. 

It is my fervent 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 senior manager. He spent 17 years, following his service career, working with the premier, world-renowned, 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 a chaplain at the regional medical center.

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