As we approach the dawn of a new year, and the true onset of a new decade, most of us will make a special effort to self deceive and set a goal for improvement. It's fantastic we can self correct and understand where our shortcomings lie, but it's also important to realize most of those New Year resolutions will fall woefully short of realization. Some will see that as failure, and if you quit rather than check and adjust your progress, you did fail. So in the paraphrased words of Churchill, "Never, never, never ever, never ever quit!"
Successful goal setting and ultimate achievement mandates that you aim for a horizon that truly stretches your limits. The worse thing you can do is aim low and hit the target! Example; setting a goal to wake before noon everyday. Although it's not something you can do with you eyes closed, it really doesn't challenge you. Setting a goal to rise before the sun, now there's a challenge with some teeth!
So face the new decade with a new vigor toward true self improvement, based on a foundation of checking your progress and adjusting for maximum return on your effort. Don't allow setbacks to dampen your resolve. Be aware that climbing toward a new horizon is going to be difficult, but then if it wasn't, wouldn't you have done it before? Remember the pain of staying the same is longer lasting and more persistent than the pain of change!
Have a safe and happy New Year, and see you in 2011!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
This Is Just Crazy!
The French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, has long been know for it's unusual atmosphere and it's questionable behavior. It's an incredible place to visit, but after the sun sets it takes on a whole new aura. Maybe this little snippet of historical fact will help explain....
On December 25,1790, twenty-five girls from an asylum in Paris, France, called the Saltpetriere were sent to the Louisiana colony in America because there were so few women. By their action, the French government also hoped to lure Canadian settlers away from Indian mistresses.
Now far be it from me to suggest that this has anything to do with the crazy behavior The French Quarter is noted for. Nor would I lead you to believe that the fact some of the first settlers to reach the Washington, DC area were exiled convicts from England. But it does go a long way to explain a few things.
Isn't history a wonderful thing when it's not just dates and places?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
On December 25,1790, twenty-five girls from an asylum in Paris, France, called the Saltpetriere were sent to the Louisiana colony in America because there were so few women. By their action, the French government also hoped to lure Canadian settlers away from Indian mistresses.
Now far be it from me to suggest that this has anything to do with the crazy behavior The French Quarter is noted for. Nor would I lead you to believe that the fact some of the first settlers to reach the Washington, DC area were exiled convicts from England. But it does go a long way to explain a few things.
Isn't history a wonderful thing when it's not just dates and places?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Say It Ain't So!
The liberal faction of this country completely understands that to control a nation, you need to control the media. It's not hard to see that they have had a design for a long time. After the McCarthy era they took to gaining control of the universities and colleges. They taught the journalism classes that graduated the media celebrities and their writers we watch and read for our daily does of propaganda. But it's even more complicated than just that....
Back in the day, Mom and Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa took in the nightly news and enjoyed the snippets of information passed to them through the television and radio broadcasts. Yearning for more information, they then scoured the newspaper for the "rest of the story." In today's uninformed world our youth seeks their news from a cable comedian,(Jon Stewart). We've become so lazy that our information has to come in a form of entertainment, which we then swallow as Gospel.
Take for instance Al Gore's work of fiction, "An Inconvenient Truth." This box office favorite was how most of the world learned of the global warming crisis. We were too lazy to seek the truth ourselves, we had to be entertained and amused into learning. Then this media sensation full of perverted and misconstrued science was accepted into being fact. Meanwhile old Al took his share to the bank and prepared to profit from his self invented crisis.
Then we have left wing movie producer Michael Moore, again more works of fiction played off as documentaries and accepted as truth. Fahrenheit 9/11 was simply a personal attack on the Bush administration, but yet it was how a large percentage of the nation got it's information about the state of the union.
He wasn't done yet, Mr Moore then decided to promote universal health care by producing the documentary ,"Sicko." Can you call a pack of lies and 1/2 truths a documentary? None the less, again it was the source of far too many for their information on healthcare.
Now balance that out with the three major news outlets on mainstream TV are run and staffed with screaming left wing reporters, trained by those liberal professors who've over run our learning institutions. Then consider all but one cable news network shares that same political view, and makes no bones about trying to influence opinion. Add in that most every newspaper and magazine in our great nation is also left leaning,(to be kind), and basically we are bombarded by liberal propaganda almost non-stop and daily. It's how our president got elected, while the conservative candidate stood looking like a deer in headlights as the media defamed him and the electorate passed him by.
All the while the left is trying to get the FCC to silence talk radio, control the Internet, and end broadcasts of Fox News. Why, you ask? Because their reporting is in direct conflict with the propaganda they spew everyday. Here's the funny part, with all that firepower they cannot compete. Almost every left wing faction of media is on the verge of bankruptcy, from the newspapers to the magazines, to Air America, (the out of business left wing talk radio station), to the mainstream TV stations.
Sara Palin, Fox News, Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh, and the rest of the conservative media thrive because some people still seek the truth. The want to learn rather than be entertained and lied to. But I still fear for our youth, they need to learn to seek the truth, not listen to a comedian for their news source. Also our right to freedom of speech is under attack, and unless we make our voices heard on issues like net neutrality etc, it can be lost.
Al Sharpton has the right to ask that Rush Limbaugh be silenced, but he doesn't have the right to do it. Senators like Jay Rockefeller from West Virginia can suggest Fox News and other cable networks be taken off the air, but that just exposes his agenda, to walk all over our right to free speech, and freedom of the press. We need to respond to these assaults by being loud and being heard, and being present when it comes time to vote!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Back in the day, Mom and Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa took in the nightly news and enjoyed the snippets of information passed to them through the television and radio broadcasts. Yearning for more information, they then scoured the newspaper for the "rest of the story." In today's uninformed world our youth seeks their news from a cable comedian,(Jon Stewart). We've become so lazy that our information has to come in a form of entertainment, which we then swallow as Gospel.
Take for instance Al Gore's work of fiction, "An Inconvenient Truth." This box office favorite was how most of the world learned of the global warming crisis. We were too lazy to seek the truth ourselves, we had to be entertained and amused into learning. Then this media sensation full of perverted and misconstrued science was accepted into being fact. Meanwhile old Al took his share to the bank and prepared to profit from his self invented crisis.
Then we have left wing movie producer Michael Moore, again more works of fiction played off as documentaries and accepted as truth. Fahrenheit 9/11 was simply a personal attack on the Bush administration, but yet it was how a large percentage of the nation got it's information about the state of the union.
He wasn't done yet, Mr Moore then decided to promote universal health care by producing the documentary ,"Sicko." Can you call a pack of lies and 1/2 truths a documentary? None the less, again it was the source of far too many for their information on healthcare.
Now balance that out with the three major news outlets on mainstream TV are run and staffed with screaming left wing reporters, trained by those liberal professors who've over run our learning institutions. Then consider all but one cable news network shares that same political view, and makes no bones about trying to influence opinion. Add in that most every newspaper and magazine in our great nation is also left leaning,(to be kind), and basically we are bombarded by liberal propaganda almost non-stop and daily. It's how our president got elected, while the conservative candidate stood looking like a deer in headlights as the media defamed him and the electorate passed him by.
All the while the left is trying to get the FCC to silence talk radio, control the Internet, and end broadcasts of Fox News. Why, you ask? Because their reporting is in direct conflict with the propaganda they spew everyday. Here's the funny part, with all that firepower they cannot compete. Almost every left wing faction of media is on the verge of bankruptcy, from the newspapers to the magazines, to Air America, (the out of business left wing talk radio station), to the mainstream TV stations.
Sara Palin, Fox News, Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh, and the rest of the conservative media thrive because some people still seek the truth. The want to learn rather than be entertained and lied to. But I still fear for our youth, they need to learn to seek the truth, not listen to a comedian for their news source. Also our right to freedom of speech is under attack, and unless we make our voices heard on issues like net neutrality etc, it can be lost.
Al Sharpton has the right to ask that Rush Limbaugh be silenced, but he doesn't have the right to do it. Senators like Jay Rockefeller from West Virginia can suggest Fox News and other cable networks be taken off the air, but that just exposes his agenda, to walk all over our right to free speech, and freedom of the press. We need to respond to these assaults by being loud and being heard, and being present when it comes time to vote!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Come Out, Come out, Where Ever You Are!!!!
I just returned from my morning walk with my dog, and I couldn't help but admire nature's beauty as the frost reflected off the roof tops in sunny South Florida. Just like those up north, we are also experiencing unusual weather, well unusual if your a global warming enthusiast. I find it ironic that Al Gore seems to go into hibernation during this time of year. It's almost deafening, the silence that booms from the climate prophets as world wide winter weather affects us all. The only peeps we hear are occasional articles from the brave supporters at The New York Times, reminding us of the absurd notion that this current weather phenomenon is still the result of global warming. I find it amusing they even attempt this rhetoric, really, who are they trying to convince?
As this thought was amusing me, I remembered my last few readings as I wandered through the Bible. It seems even back then they had people like Al Gore and company. They were exposed in the writings of Jeremiah as false prophets. They predicted the future falsely and ensured everyone who would listen it was out of the mouth of God. Well you could imagine this caused some strife to those who were truly blessed to preach the actual truth, but Jeremiah did point out there was one factor false prophets all held in common. Let me quote...
The Lord make you like Zedekiah and A'hab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire, because they have committed folly in Israel, they have committed adultery with their neighbor's wives, and have spoken in my name lying words which I did not command them. I am the one who knows,and I am witness, says the Lord. -Jeremiah 29:22-23
I don't know about you but that adultery thing kind of stands out when I think of a certain global warming prophet. It's kind of an "Inconvenient Truth" if you follow my drift. If I were a left wing, tree hugging, climate change false prophet, I'd probably try to keep religion out of the mix too. That kind of stuff would just discredit my already questionable ethics, integrity, and character.
So once again, life's handbook, (the Bible), teaches us how to expose false prophets. Well that and the good Lord has a funny way of discrediting them on his own. It's a good thing for them God doesn't seek vengeance with the vigor he used to in Jeremiah's day!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
As this thought was amusing me, I remembered my last few readings as I wandered through the Bible. It seems even back then they had people like Al Gore and company. They were exposed in the writings of Jeremiah as false prophets. They predicted the future falsely and ensured everyone who would listen it was out of the mouth of God. Well you could imagine this caused some strife to those who were truly blessed to preach the actual truth, but Jeremiah did point out there was one factor false prophets all held in common. Let me quote...
The Lord make you like Zedekiah and A'hab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire, because they have committed folly in Israel, they have committed adultery with their neighbor's wives, and have spoken in my name lying words which I did not command them. I am the one who knows,and I am witness, says the Lord. -Jeremiah 29:22-23
I don't know about you but that adultery thing kind of stands out when I think of a certain global warming prophet. It's kind of an "Inconvenient Truth" if you follow my drift. If I were a left wing, tree hugging, climate change false prophet, I'd probably try to keep religion out of the mix too. That kind of stuff would just discredit my already questionable ethics, integrity, and character.
So once again, life's handbook, (the Bible), teaches us how to expose false prophets. Well that and the good Lord has a funny way of discrediting them on his own. It's a good thing for them God doesn't seek vengeance with the vigor he used to in Jeremiah's day!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, December 27, 2010
Hey Pilgrim, Can You Skin Griz?
One of the original settlers of this great nation was that band of rascals searching for religious freedom, who set sail from England and landed on Plymouth Rock. They've come to symbolize the heart of America, bring to us the feast of Thanksgiving, and a work ethic of persistence. It couldn't have been easy to leave your native homeland for an uncertain future, that alone speaks volumes to their drive to practice religion freely.
Funny thing, when they first arrived they started their community the most un-American way. Under the Mayflower Compact, the Pilgrims attempted to create a just and equal society; whatever they produced was put into a common warehouse, with each individual entitled to one equal share. All their land, buildings, food, and end products were owned by the masses. Basically they were socialist! The Marxists of the New World!
How well did it work? Well, you don't see a whole lot of Pilgrims walking around in modern times, do you? Actually they only used that structure for a year or two, then they change to the current American economic structure-capitalism. But I can't help wonder if those early society structural ideas have bled down through the generations. It would go along way to explaining how New England currently votes.
Bet you were never taught that in during history class in school!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Funny thing, when they first arrived they started their community the most un-American way. Under the Mayflower Compact, the Pilgrims attempted to create a just and equal society; whatever they produced was put into a common warehouse, with each individual entitled to one equal share. All their land, buildings, food, and end products were owned by the masses. Basically they were socialist! The Marxists of the New World!
How well did it work? Well, you don't see a whole lot of Pilgrims walking around in modern times, do you? Actually they only used that structure for a year or two, then they change to the current American economic structure-capitalism. But I can't help wonder if those early society structural ideas have bled down through the generations. It would go along way to explaining how New England currently votes.
Bet you were never taught that in during history class in school!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Binge Venting!
Well, well...The Christmas dishes are washed and I went 13 days without writing political. I have to tell you I'm about to explode! With all of the injustices being sponsored in Washington, assaulting our budget and our Constitution, it was no easy task to be silent. And if that wasn't enough, I was given a book written by a liberal over the Christmas holiday full of twisted ideology and 1/2 truths. That on second thought might have been a blessing, as I've written my own book in the margins of that book arguing with the author. A sort of therapy, if you will. It has opened my eyes to exactly how twisted a liberal's thought process is.
Along those lines, a faithful reader, (thanks Mark), sent me this e-mail explaining just how twisted that logic is when it comes to our progressive tax system. I thought I'd share.......
U.S. Tax System explained in Beer
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100.
If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.
So, that's what they decided to do. The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are all such good customers,' he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20. 'Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free. But what about the other six men - the paying customers?
How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?' They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.
And so the fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings)..
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 ( 22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.
'I only got a dollar out of the $20,' declared the sixth man.
He pointed to the tenth man,' but he got $10! ''Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man.
'I only saved a dollar, too.. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I! ''That's true!!' shouted the seventh man.
'Why should he get $10 back when I got only two?
The wealthy get all the breaks!
''Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!
'The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up. The next night the tenth man ( the richest) didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!
And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.
-Author unknown
You know I couldn't have laid this out any better myself. This is a perfect analogy of how the bureaucrats in Washington think, and how it affects us. Common sense has left the building! But I can't just blame Washington, the voters sent them there. We are far from informed when it comes to exercising our right to vote, and the politicians count on that. Here's an example of fact.....
There were more than 46,000 write-in votes for Edward "Ted" Kennedy for US senator in 1962. Which isn't stupid in and of itself until you discover those write in voters lived in Connecticut, and Kennedy was running in Massachusetts.
Enough said..........
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Along those lines, a faithful reader, (thanks Mark), sent me this e-mail explaining just how twisted that logic is when it comes to our progressive tax system. I thought I'd share.......
U.S. Tax System explained in Beer
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100.
If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.
So, that's what they decided to do. The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are all such good customers,' he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20. 'Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free. But what about the other six men - the paying customers?
How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?' They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.
And so the fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings)..
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 ( 22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.
'I only got a dollar out of the $20,' declared the sixth man.
He pointed to the tenth man,' but he got $10! ''Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man.
'I only saved a dollar, too.. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I! ''That's true!!' shouted the seventh man.
'Why should he get $10 back when I got only two?
The wealthy get all the breaks!
''Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!
'The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up. The next night the tenth man ( the richest) didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!
And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.
-Author unknown
You know I couldn't have laid this out any better myself. This is a perfect analogy of how the bureaucrats in Washington think, and how it affects us. Common sense has left the building! But I can't just blame Washington, the voters sent them there. We are far from informed when it comes to exercising our right to vote, and the politicians count on that. Here's an example of fact.....
There were more than 46,000 write-in votes for Edward "Ted" Kennedy for US senator in 1962. Which isn't stupid in and of itself until you discover those write in voters lived in Connecticut, and Kennedy was running in Massachusetts.
Enough said..........
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas!
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.-Luke 2:8-14
Enough said!
Merry Christmas to you and all of yours.....
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.-Luke 2:8-14
Enough said!
Merry Christmas to you and all of yours.....
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, December 24, 2010
The Best For Last!
Reflecting, I think one of the greatest gifts we receive on earth is the ability to teach ourselves. We can read! Once we've been taught to handle that task, anything is possible. We've even made it so our self education is cost free by erecting public libraries stocked full of knowledge for all to enjoy. Thank you, Ben Franklin!
Whatever your station in life, your where you choose to be. You have at your fingertips the ability to improve your knowledge on virtually any subject by simply cracking a book. The freedom to expand your mind is like no other! Time after time stories are told of the impoverished soul who made a decision, they made a decision to leave behind the condition of ignorance and advance their standard of living. It's no coincidence that most of the high end homes possess libraries.
If you dwell on this, it's obvious that the boundaries have been erased! Your no longer limited as to what you can achieve once you make the decision to improve your mind, and manage that decision. Ignorance is the tool of Satan. When we choose to exercise our liberty to read and improve our mind, we defiantly make a stand to defeat the devil.
So on this Twelfth Day of Christmas I propose we all accept the timeless and always giving, gift of knowledge. It knows no limitations, and the boundaries it observe's are our freedom to set!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Whatever your station in life, your where you choose to be. You have at your fingertips the ability to improve your knowledge on virtually any subject by simply cracking a book. The freedom to expand your mind is like no other! Time after time stories are told of the impoverished soul who made a decision, they made a decision to leave behind the condition of ignorance and advance their standard of living. It's no coincidence that most of the high end homes possess libraries.
If you dwell on this, it's obvious that the boundaries have been erased! Your no longer limited as to what you can achieve once you make the decision to improve your mind, and manage that decision. Ignorance is the tool of Satan. When we choose to exercise our liberty to read and improve our mind, we defiantly make a stand to defeat the devil.
So on this Twelfth Day of Christmas I propose we all accept the timeless and always giving, gift of knowledge. It knows no limitations, and the boundaries it observe's are our freedom to set!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, December 23, 2010
It's Getting Closer.......
The Eleventh Day of Christmas brings us the gift of truth. I've noticed in my earthly wanderings, that finding the truth is a valuable asset. It's amazing how many different degrees of the truth there seems to be, somehow it manages to be spun or altered till a totally different variation rears it's ugly head. I'm willing to bet that's why A. J. Nock cited this quote, one I hold so dear.....
"Truth tampered with is truth lost."
If you really reflect on those words and apply them to life today, you can see what a valuable asset the real truth is. So I've learned to appreciate the truth, and I've come to understand what a priceless commodity it has become. It speaks to character and integrity. Truth defines the man. I've found if you want to anger a man of character and integrity, tell him a lie. To the contrary, if you want to anger a man of questionable character, who distorts the truth, then simply tell him the truth. It works ever time and uncloaks who you are dealing with.
I was taught as a child that the real truth lies in the pages of the Bible. It does have a lot to say about this subject...
John 8:32
"and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
2 Timothy 2:15
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth."
And as a final thought......
1 John 1:8
"If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
So I think it's obvious that the truth is a valuable gift, one we should celebrate when we find it, un spun, and un altered!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
"Truth tampered with is truth lost."
If you really reflect on those words and apply them to life today, you can see what a valuable asset the real truth is. So I've learned to appreciate the truth, and I've come to understand what a priceless commodity it has become. It speaks to character and integrity. Truth defines the man. I've found if you want to anger a man of character and integrity, tell him a lie. To the contrary, if you want to anger a man of questionable character, who distorts the truth, then simply tell him the truth. It works ever time and uncloaks who you are dealing with.
I was taught as a child that the real truth lies in the pages of the Bible. It does have a lot to say about this subject...
John 8:32
"and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
2 Timothy 2:15
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth."
And as a final thought......
1 John 1:8
"If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
So I think it's obvious that the truth is a valuable gift, one we should celebrate when we find it, un spun, and un altered!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
On The Tenth Day Of Christmas.....
It's never a bad time for us to reflect and count our blessings. As we enter the Tenth Day of Christmas I'm suggesting we look back on all the good God has brought into our lives, and give thanks.No matter what the struggle God has given us to conquer, we all can find something to be thankful we were worthy of.
This reminds me of the parable of the talents, where we are taught to take what we've been blessed with and expand upon it......
“Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour. 14 For it is like a man going on a journey, who summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to them. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The one who had received five talents went off right away and put his money to work270 and gained five more. 17 In the same way, the one who had two gained two more. 18 But the one who had received one talent went out and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money in it. 19 After a long time, the master of those slaves came and settled his accounts with them. 20 The one who had received the five talents came and brought five more, saying, ‘Sir, you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful in a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 The one with the two talents also came and said, ‘Sir, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more.’ 23 His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 Then the one who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Sir, I knew that you were a hard man, harvesting where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered, ‘Evil and lazy slave! So you knew that I harvest where I didn’t sow and gather where I didn’t scatter? 27 Then you should have deposited my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received my money back with interest! 28 Therefore take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten. 29 For the one who has will be given more, and he will have more than enough. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 30 And throw that worthless slave into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth’” (Matthew 25:13-30).
It is a simple story that our Lord tells here. A man who is preparing to leave on a journey entrusts his possessions to his servants. He distributes his wealth among three servants, apportioned to them on the basis of their abilities. To the first he entrusted five talents, to the second two talents, and to the third one talent. The first two servants quickly272 set to work with their master’s money. The third servant did not invest his master’s money at all; he dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money. When the master returned, the first two eagerly met their master, apparently delighted in the opportunity to multiply their master’s money.273 Both were commended as “good and faithful servants”; both were rewarded with increased responsibilities in their master’s service; both were invited to share in their master’s joy.
The master’s dealings with the third servant is a very different matter. This servant came to his master with only the talent his master had originally entrusted to him. He did not increase his master’s money at all. In fact, if this were to take place today, that money would likely be worth less, due to inflation. This servant offered a feeble excuse for his conduct. He told his master that he was a harsh and cruel man, a man who was demanding, and who expected gain where he had not labored. He contended that this is why he was afraid to take a risk with any kind of investment. And so he simply hid the money, and now he returned it, without any gain. The master rebuked this slave for being evil and lazy. He took his talent from him, gave it to the one who earned ten, and cast this fellow into outer darkness, where there was weeping and gnashing of teeth.
We should carefully note the outcome of faithful service, and of unfaithful service, in this parable. Faithful service led to increased responsibilities in the kingdom of heaven, and eternal joy in the presence of the Master, Jesus Christ. Unfaithful service led to condemnation, the removal of one’s stewardship, and an eternity of weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness, away from the presence of our Lord.
One must surely conclude that this parable is not just an interesting story, but a message of eternal significance. Let us listen carefully then, looking to God’s Spirit to enlighten our hearts and minds, and to empower our service, to the glory of God and our eternal good.
So on the tenth day, let's count our blessings, and share them with others!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
This reminds me of the parable of the talents, where we are taught to take what we've been blessed with and expand upon it......
“Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour. 14 For it is like a man going on a journey, who summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to them. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The one who had received five talents went off right away and put his money to work270 and gained five more. 17 In the same way, the one who had two gained two more. 18 But the one who had received one talent went out and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money in it. 19 After a long time, the master of those slaves came and settled his accounts with them. 20 The one who had received the five talents came and brought five more, saying, ‘Sir, you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful in a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 The one with the two talents also came and said, ‘Sir, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more.’ 23 His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 Then the one who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Sir, I knew that you were a hard man, harvesting where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered, ‘Evil and lazy slave! So you knew that I harvest where I didn’t sow and gather where I didn’t scatter? 27 Then you should have deposited my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received my money back with interest! 28 Therefore take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten. 29 For the one who has will be given more, and he will have more than enough. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 30 And throw that worthless slave into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth’” (Matthew 25:13-30).
It is a simple story that our Lord tells here. A man who is preparing to leave on a journey entrusts his possessions to his servants. He distributes his wealth among three servants, apportioned to them on the basis of their abilities. To the first he entrusted five talents, to the second two talents, and to the third one talent. The first two servants quickly272 set to work with their master’s money. The third servant did not invest his master’s money at all; he dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money. When the master returned, the first two eagerly met their master, apparently delighted in the opportunity to multiply their master’s money.273 Both were commended as “good and faithful servants”; both were rewarded with increased responsibilities in their master’s service; both were invited to share in their master’s joy.
The master’s dealings with the third servant is a very different matter. This servant came to his master with only the talent his master had originally entrusted to him. He did not increase his master’s money at all. In fact, if this were to take place today, that money would likely be worth less, due to inflation. This servant offered a feeble excuse for his conduct. He told his master that he was a harsh and cruel man, a man who was demanding, and who expected gain where he had not labored. He contended that this is why he was afraid to take a risk with any kind of investment. And so he simply hid the money, and now he returned it, without any gain. The master rebuked this slave for being evil and lazy. He took his talent from him, gave it to the one who earned ten, and cast this fellow into outer darkness, where there was weeping and gnashing of teeth.
We should carefully note the outcome of faithful service, and of unfaithful service, in this parable. Faithful service led to increased responsibilities in the kingdom of heaven, and eternal joy in the presence of the Master, Jesus Christ. Unfaithful service led to condemnation, the removal of one’s stewardship, and an eternity of weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness, away from the presence of our Lord.
One must surely conclude that this parable is not just an interesting story, but a message of eternal significance. Let us listen carefully then, looking to God’s Spirit to enlighten our hearts and minds, and to empower our service, to the glory of God and our eternal good.
So on the tenth day, let's count our blessings, and share them with others!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
And On The Ninth Day!
On the Ninth Day of Christmas I thought it prudent to remember forgiveness. How much fun can the holidays be if we walk around looking like we've been nursed on a pickle? Really, holding contempt for someone is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die. Christmas is a time to mend old fences and restore relationships. After all isn't this journey all about the relationships?
Your dash between birth and death will be defined by the people you touch. Those bonds are your eulogy, what defines your time here on earth. We were sent an example of how to live this dash, and his end was all about forgiveness. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, and what better time to forgive than during the celebration of one who gave up his life that we might be forgiven? Talk about a dash! Jesus formed relationships where ever he went, touched so many, then made the ultimate sacrifice so that me might be absolved of our sins. It kind of makes whatever your upset with someone about seem kind of small, no?
So as we approach this celebration of nativity, how about we apply the lesson? The gift of forgiveness is one both can enjoy!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Your dash between birth and death will be defined by the people you touch. Those bonds are your eulogy, what defines your time here on earth. We were sent an example of how to live this dash, and his end was all about forgiveness. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, and what better time to forgive than during the celebration of one who gave up his life that we might be forgiven? Talk about a dash! Jesus formed relationships where ever he went, touched so many, then made the ultimate sacrifice so that me might be absolved of our sins. It kind of makes whatever your upset with someone about seem kind of small, no?
So as we approach this celebration of nativity, how about we apply the lesson? The gift of forgiveness is one both can enjoy!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, December 20, 2010
On The Eigth Day Of Christmas......
The gift for the Eighth Day of Christmas is exceptionalism. Not all my readers live here in the United States of America, so an explanation might be in order. We celebrate ingenuity, resourcefulness, thought, innovation, ideas, performance, and anything that makes you stand out from the average soul. It's what made our country great, and is truly a gift from God above.
Average performers believe their errors were caused by factors outside their influence. Top performers, by contrast, know they are responsible for their errors, accept accountability and move forward to correct those learning experiences.
Poor performers don't set goals at all; they just slog along through their work in a meaningless fog. Mediocre performers set goals that are general, and are often focused on just getting the task accomplished. A good outcome is all they desire.
The best performers, those who deal in exceptionalism, seek the great outcome. They set goals that are not about the outcome but about stretching themselves to a place that seems unachievable.
Example: Being the first man on the moon when you don't even have a space program operational. That my friends is what makes America and it's citizens great. Big, hairy, audacious goal setting.
What a wonderful environment we live in, enjoying the freedom to express our ambitions and achieve our dreams! That's not only a gift but a blessing!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Average performers believe their errors were caused by factors outside their influence. Top performers, by contrast, know they are responsible for their errors, accept accountability and move forward to correct those learning experiences.
Poor performers don't set goals at all; they just slog along through their work in a meaningless fog. Mediocre performers set goals that are general, and are often focused on just getting the task accomplished. A good outcome is all they desire.
The best performers, those who deal in exceptionalism, seek the great outcome. They set goals that are not about the outcome but about stretching themselves to a place that seems unachievable.
Example: Being the first man on the moon when you don't even have a space program operational. That my friends is what makes America and it's citizens great. Big, hairy, audacious goal setting.
What a wonderful environment we live in, enjoying the freedom to express our ambitions and achieve our dreams! That's not only a gift but a blessing!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Timeless!
Man we're already to the Seventh Day of Christmas, I better get my tree decorated and that shopping done! Another victim of procrastination! Isn't it funny how we put off the distasteful chores in our life, causing undue stress? Brian Tracy says it best in the title of his book on procrastination, "Eat That Frog."
Especially in the stressful holiday time of year it's important to work your priorities.
"When every physical and mental resource is focused, one's power to resolve a problem multiplies tremendously!" -Norman Vincent Peale
And how important is that message when we have so many things to get accomplished? Company is coming, presents must be bought and wrapped, the house need cleaning, it can be overwhelming! But a laser like focus on accomplishing one task at a time is the key to success. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment when you've finished a task, which leads to the empowerment necessary to continue on toward your goal.
"Concentrate all of your thoughts on the task at hand. The sun's rays do not burn until brought into focus!" -Alexander Graham Bell
And with this new found sense of order, we give ourselves the gift of time. Then we can apply that gift to the top of our priority list. Spending time with that always appreciative son, grandson, daughter, or granddaughter. Giving back to the community that has provided us an environment to prosper. Praising our Maker for the gift of life, or just enjoying the festive time of year. Time is a precious commodity, you cannot buy it back, so use it wisely!
So our gift on this Seventh Day of Christmas is the gift of time!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Especially in the stressful holiday time of year it's important to work your priorities.
"When every physical and mental resource is focused, one's power to resolve a problem multiplies tremendously!" -Norman Vincent Peale
And how important is that message when we have so many things to get accomplished? Company is coming, presents must be bought and wrapped, the house need cleaning, it can be overwhelming! But a laser like focus on accomplishing one task at a time is the key to success. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment when you've finished a task, which leads to the empowerment necessary to continue on toward your goal.
"Concentrate all of your thoughts on the task at hand. The sun's rays do not burn until brought into focus!" -Alexander Graham Bell
And with this new found sense of order, we give ourselves the gift of time. Then we can apply that gift to the top of our priority list. Spending time with that always appreciative son, grandson, daughter, or granddaughter. Giving back to the community that has provided us an environment to prosper. Praising our Maker for the gift of life, or just enjoying the festive time of year. Time is a precious commodity, you cannot buy it back, so use it wisely!
So our gift on this Seventh Day of Christmas is the gift of time!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, December 18, 2010
The Fifth and Sixth Days of Christmas!!!
Yesterday’s post was hampered by a computer virus, but I’ve overcome that challenge and to make up for it today you get a two-fer! I’d like to bring you back to a simpler time in life, back about the time you were attending kindergarten. Remember when the teacher and others would ask, what do you want to be when you grow up? With our childlike innocence , and naïve vision , we conjured up all kinds of answers! Poets, firemen, policemen, nurses, doctors, president, princess, king or a queen, our imagination had no boundaries. If we were asked today , how would that question be answered?
I remember just prior to Christmas a treasure would arrive at our household. It was eagerly anticipated and when it arrived, absorbed like no other literature! It was the ever popular Sears catalogue. My fingers would fly through the pages, past the clothes, and the house wares, avoiding the shoes and head directly to the toys. Everything a young man or woman could ever dream of lay there for the taking, all it required was hope and belief in a miracle. There were tanks and dolls, blimps and tea sets, plastic guns and easy bake ovens, and all you had to do was behave and believe, and Santa would reward your dreams. Life set in and now I wonder where all that hope and belief in our dreams and vision has gone?
You know that’s not lost, it’s just buried under layers of reality. We have to have the audacity to dream. The power of hope is what drives change. Take yourself back to that young child, and remember when all things were possible. They still are….
That’s the gift for the fifth day of Christmas, hope, imagination, dreams, and vision.
“Nothing happens but first the dream.” -Sagan
Now on the sixth day of Christmas I’d like to remind you that God honors commitment. Making your dreams a reality take blind commitment and a powerful faith in the Lord. Success is always just the other side of the struggle. How many people quit on their dreams when they can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, just to fall victim to a bend in the road? Just a little more commitment and your goal can be realized. If you quit on your dream, what do you return back to? Is the pain of mediocrity worth the regret of what might have been? That my friends is the enemy of greatness, a lack of commitment and faith in the Lord. Life is here to live, no one gets out alive, so why do we settle for the safe and comfortable? When you find your dream, apply the commitment needed to see it through!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I remember just prior to Christmas a treasure would arrive at our household. It was eagerly anticipated and when it arrived, absorbed like no other literature! It was the ever popular Sears catalogue. My fingers would fly through the pages, past the clothes, and the house wares, avoiding the shoes and head directly to the toys. Everything a young man or woman could ever dream of lay there for the taking, all it required was hope and belief in a miracle. There were tanks and dolls, blimps and tea sets, plastic guns and easy bake ovens, and all you had to do was behave and believe, and Santa would reward your dreams. Life set in and now I wonder where all that hope and belief in our dreams and vision has gone?
You know that’s not lost, it’s just buried under layers of reality. We have to have the audacity to dream. The power of hope is what drives change. Take yourself back to that young child, and remember when all things were possible. They still are….
That’s the gift for the fifth day of Christmas, hope, imagination, dreams, and vision.
“Nothing happens but first the dream.” -Sagan
Now on the sixth day of Christmas I’d like to remind you that God honors commitment. Making your dreams a reality take blind commitment and a powerful faith in the Lord. Success is always just the other side of the struggle. How many people quit on their dreams when they can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, just to fall victim to a bend in the road? Just a little more commitment and your goal can be realized. If you quit on your dream, what do you return back to? Is the pain of mediocrity worth the regret of what might have been? That my friends is the enemy of greatness, a lack of commitment and faith in the Lord. Life is here to live, no one gets out alive, so why do we settle for the safe and comfortable? When you find your dream, apply the commitment needed to see it through!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, December 16, 2010
On The Fourth Day of Christmas.....
Yesterday's blog about the choleric personality was such a hit I thought I'd expound on the other three personalities. After all having a grasp on how people react is a critical part of our personal growth, especially when it's you doing the reacting! One of these four types is your dominate personality, not saying you can't have a secondary one, just one will stand out more than the rest.
We learned yesterday that the choleric is a strong willed, people skills impaired, get-er-done kind of person. The sanguine on the other hand is a direct contrast. They are all about the people, and the party. To balance the sanguine God gave us the melancholy. They are a an order driven, rule following, task oriented, and kind shy on the people skills side. Then there is the phlegmatic, not very motivated, friend to all. The phlegmatic's motto is,,,tomorrow's another day!
Now imagine you pulled up to a four way stop. On each corner was one of the personalities, well at least of a second they'd be there, because the choleric would take right off. They aren't concerned who's turn it was to go, those signs were stupid anyway, what moron put them there? They have things to do, people to see, and places to be. Those signs were just in their way, so they were ignored.
Now the sanguine on the other hand would take that as an opportunity to see if they knew anyone in the other cars at the intersection. They'd be busy checking out who was there and waving to those they knew, and trying to make friends with those they've not yet met. As long as there was a stream of cars and new people to wave at, they might never leave, making them late for their next appointment, or at least one of the reasons they were late. To them it's all about the people!
This in turn would frustrate the melancholy to no end. You see they need a sense of order,and would be totally frustrated if there was any deviation from that order. They are very likely to get out of the car and direct traffic until it was their turn. Then tool on down the road at the exact posted speed limit marveling at the orderly design, and the strict enforcement of the rules.
The phlegmatic would be the last to leave. They would insist everyone else go before them, after all they aren't on any schedule, and it's all about other people's feelings. They hate conflict and will do anything necessary to prevent that, including putting themselves last. They are friend to all and easy to get along with. Forever going with the flow. Everyone loves the phlegmatic! But one has to wonder how they got motivated to get off the couch in the first place?
As you can see each personality has strong and weak points, and they are all necessary parts of our life. Melancholies bring a sense of order to this crazy world. Those stop signs and speed limits are without a doubt designed by a melancholy. They make great doctors and teachers. You want a melancholy as a brain surgeon as they are very detail oriented. They sanguine teaches us to laugh at our selves. What a boring place this would be without the sanguine influence! The choleric is the personality you want at the helm in a time of high seas. They don't stress out under pressure, they just get the job done. And the loveable phlegmatic teaches us to tolerate and love one another, keep the conflict to a minimum, it's not necessary!
So on the fourth day of Christmas we give to you understanding of self!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We learned yesterday that the choleric is a strong willed, people skills impaired, get-er-done kind of person. The sanguine on the other hand is a direct contrast. They are all about the people, and the party. To balance the sanguine God gave us the melancholy. They are a an order driven, rule following, task oriented, and kind shy on the people skills side. Then there is the phlegmatic, not very motivated, friend to all. The phlegmatic's motto is,,,tomorrow's another day!
Now imagine you pulled up to a four way stop. On each corner was one of the personalities, well at least of a second they'd be there, because the choleric would take right off. They aren't concerned who's turn it was to go, those signs were stupid anyway, what moron put them there? They have things to do, people to see, and places to be. Those signs were just in their way, so they were ignored.
Now the sanguine on the other hand would take that as an opportunity to see if they knew anyone in the other cars at the intersection. They'd be busy checking out who was there and waving to those they knew, and trying to make friends with those they've not yet met. As long as there was a stream of cars and new people to wave at, they might never leave, making them late for their next appointment, or at least one of the reasons they were late. To them it's all about the people!
This in turn would frustrate the melancholy to no end. You see they need a sense of order,and would be totally frustrated if there was any deviation from that order. They are very likely to get out of the car and direct traffic until it was their turn. Then tool on down the road at the exact posted speed limit marveling at the orderly design, and the strict enforcement of the rules.
The phlegmatic would be the last to leave. They would insist everyone else go before them, after all they aren't on any schedule, and it's all about other people's feelings. They hate conflict and will do anything necessary to prevent that, including putting themselves last. They are friend to all and easy to get along with. Forever going with the flow. Everyone loves the phlegmatic! But one has to wonder how they got motivated to get off the couch in the first place?
As you can see each personality has strong and weak points, and they are all necessary parts of our life. Melancholies bring a sense of order to this crazy world. Those stop signs and speed limits are without a doubt designed by a melancholy. They make great doctors and teachers. You want a melancholy as a brain surgeon as they are very detail oriented. They sanguine teaches us to laugh at our selves. What a boring place this would be without the sanguine influence! The choleric is the personality you want at the helm in a time of high seas. They don't stress out under pressure, they just get the job done. And the loveable phlegmatic teaches us to tolerate and love one another, keep the conflict to a minimum, it's not necessary!
So on the fourth day of Christmas we give to you understanding of self!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
On The Third Day of Christmas........
Orrin has posted a 5 part video series over on his blog >>>>, that I hope you've had the occasion to check out. He discusses the finer points of mentoring and being mentored. It brought back my own struggles with the process, you see I'm a recovering choleric.
Now for those of you who are not familiar with the four personality types, the choleric is usually the most easily recognized. Their mantra is, "my way or the highway." Personal recognition of being choleric is simple as well, you only have two questions in your vocabulary. The first one is, "are you stupid?", And the second one is, "why isn't this done yet?" And finally a choleric is always frustrated by how many stupid people they are surrounded with. As you can see, it can be a little difficult to mentor this personality type. Despite the fact a choleric is often wrong, but never in doubt. Example, when I just misspelled despite, I thought in my head...stupid computer. (See it never really goes away)
So needless to say I struggled taking counsel from others. But I did overcome that shortcoming long enough to read "Personality Plus," where I began to realize my strengths and weaknesses. Really, not everyone is stupid, and someone else can do the job as competently and as quickly as I can. Other people's opinions count, can you imagine my amazement at these revelations! Anyway as I began to soften the rough edges my eyes were open to the fact that there were a select few that I admired, and I could learn from them. My choleric brothers and sisters are likely the only ones that realize how difficult a struggle this was, but I stand before you as living proof people can grow and change.
Now don't take this wrong, choleric's have great qualities too! If you need a hill taken from the enemy in a war, and the chances are bleak, send a choleric, it'll get done. If your down a touchdown with 30 seconds left facing impossible odds, you want a choleric as a quarterback. They find a way to get the job done. In times of crisis, they'll find the answer, and react quickly. There maybe a path of bodies and hurt feelings in their wake, but the results will be there. That you can depend upon.
So on this third day of Christmas, I received the gift of awareness. I hope tis little ditty helped make you aware of the challenges the choleric in your life faces, even if it's you.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Now for those of you who are not familiar with the four personality types, the choleric is usually the most easily recognized. Their mantra is, "my way or the highway." Personal recognition of being choleric is simple as well, you only have two questions in your vocabulary. The first one is, "are you stupid?", And the second one is, "why isn't this done yet?" And finally a choleric is always frustrated by how many stupid people they are surrounded with. As you can see, it can be a little difficult to mentor this personality type. Despite the fact a choleric is often wrong, but never in doubt. Example, when I just misspelled despite, I thought in my head...stupid computer. (See it never really goes away)
So needless to say I struggled taking counsel from others. But I did overcome that shortcoming long enough to read "Personality Plus," where I began to realize my strengths and weaknesses. Really, not everyone is stupid, and someone else can do the job as competently and as quickly as I can. Other people's opinions count, can you imagine my amazement at these revelations! Anyway as I began to soften the rough edges my eyes were open to the fact that there were a select few that I admired, and I could learn from them. My choleric brothers and sisters are likely the only ones that realize how difficult a struggle this was, but I stand before you as living proof people can grow and change.
Now don't take this wrong, choleric's have great qualities too! If you need a hill taken from the enemy in a war, and the chances are bleak, send a choleric, it'll get done. If your down a touchdown with 30 seconds left facing impossible odds, you want a choleric as a quarterback. They find a way to get the job done. In times of crisis, they'll find the answer, and react quickly. There maybe a path of bodies and hurt feelings in their wake, but the results will be there. That you can depend upon.
So on this third day of Christmas, I received the gift of awareness. I hope tis little ditty helped make you aware of the challenges the choleric in your life faces, even if it's you.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
On The Second Day Of Christmas.......
On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.....sanity! Finally we've found a judge that understands the Constitution. It's not a surprise that it took so long, 43% of Americans found favor with mandated healthcare. That's a great indicator that 43% of our fellow countrymen don't understand the Constitution. Don't get me wrong, it's a noble cause to make sure everyone in the nation is under the safety net of quality healthcare. But demanding people purchase something, anything, under penalty of a fine imposed by those in power is tyrannical, and a direct violation of the principles this country was founded upon. In fact it's down right dictator like.
The freedom of choice is a wonderful thing, but it does come with responsibilities. One of those is to protect that which insures our freedom. That's the only insurance the government should offer, and to violate that mandate should be punishable by a fine or prison, because it is a crime to limit our God given rights.
There is a way to offer healthcare to those who cannot afford it in this country and stay within the boundaries of our Constitution. It's called charity. Charitable foundations like St. Jude's Hospital for Children, or The Shriner's Children's Hospital are fine examples of how society deals with this issue properly. No fraud, no waste, innovation, and quality healthcare at no cost to the needy. They employ a multitude a fantastic staffers and offer opportunity for the community to volunteer. And the best part is....not a politician in sight. Want to bet that has something to do with the impressive quality and lack of waste?
Christmas is a time of giving, be sure to consider a contribution to one of these fine charities. They keep government out of the mix, and provide a much needed service to those in need. They are spectacular examples of how a free market society, solves and provides for those in need.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The freedom of choice is a wonderful thing, but it does come with responsibilities. One of those is to protect that which insures our freedom. That's the only insurance the government should offer, and to violate that mandate should be punishable by a fine or prison, because it is a crime to limit our God given rights.
There is a way to offer healthcare to those who cannot afford it in this country and stay within the boundaries of our Constitution. It's called charity. Charitable foundations like St. Jude's Hospital for Children, or The Shriner's Children's Hospital are fine examples of how society deals with this issue properly. No fraud, no waste, innovation, and quality healthcare at no cost to the needy. They employ a multitude a fantastic staffers and offer opportunity for the community to volunteer. And the best part is....not a politician in sight. Want to bet that has something to do with the impressive quality and lack of waste?
Christmas is a time of giving, be sure to consider a contribution to one of these fine charities. They keep government out of the mix, and provide a much needed service to those in need. They are spectacular examples of how a free market society, solves and provides for those in need.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, December 13, 2010
On Christmas Day!
Today is the official start of the Twelve Days of Christmas, so in honor of that, I thought I'd pass on George Washington's favorite Christmas poem.
ON CHRISTMAS DAY
Assist me Muse divine to sing the morn,
On which the Savior of mankind was born;
But oh! What numbers to the theme can rise?
Unless kind angels aid me from the skies?
Methinks I see the tunefull Host descend,
Hark, by their hymns directed on the road,
The gladsome Shepherds find nascent God!
And view the infant conscience of his birth,
Smiling bespeak salvation to the earth!
For when the important Aera first drew near
In which the great Messiah should appear
And to accomplish His redeeming love
Resign a while His glorious throne above.
Beneath our form every woe sustain
and by triumphant suffering fix His reign
Should for lost man in tortures yield his breath,
Dying to save us from eternal death!
Oh mystic Union! Salutary grace!
Incarnate our God our nature should embrace!
That Deity should stoop to our disguise!
Than man recovered should regain the skies!
Deject Adam! From thy grave descend
And view the Serpent's Deadly Malice end,
Adorring bless th' Almighty's boundless grace
That gave his son a ransome for thy race!
Oh never let my soul this Day forget,
But pay in grateful praise her annual debt
To Him whom 'tis my trust adore,
When time and sin and death shall be no more.
-Circa 1743
It's my guess not many of us were aware this Christian verse was a childhood favorite of our first president. To enlighten the population of this would debunk the myth George Washington was a deist and not a Christian. So as a present on the first of the Twelve Days of Christmas, I bring to you the truth!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
ON CHRISTMAS DAY
Assist me Muse divine to sing the morn,
On which the Savior of mankind was born;
But oh! What numbers to the theme can rise?
Unless kind angels aid me from the skies?
Methinks I see the tunefull Host descend,
Hark, by their hymns directed on the road,
The gladsome Shepherds find nascent God!
And view the infant conscience of his birth,
Smiling bespeak salvation to the earth!
For when the important Aera first drew near
In which the great Messiah should appear
And to accomplish His redeeming love
Resign a while His glorious throne above.
Beneath our form every woe sustain
and by triumphant suffering fix His reign
Should for lost man in tortures yield his breath,
Dying to save us from eternal death!
Oh mystic Union! Salutary grace!
Incarnate our God our nature should embrace!
That Deity should stoop to our disguise!
Than man recovered should regain the skies!
Deject Adam! From thy grave descend
And view the Serpent's Deadly Malice end,
Adorring bless th' Almighty's boundless grace
That gave his son a ransome for thy race!
Oh never let my soul this Day forget,
But pay in grateful praise her annual debt
To Him whom 'tis my trust adore,
When time and sin and death shall be no more.
-Circa 1743
It's my guess not many of us were aware this Christian verse was a childhood favorite of our first president. To enlighten the population of this would debunk the myth George Washington was a deist and not a Christian. So as a present on the first of the Twelve Days of Christmas, I bring to you the truth!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Relationships, 101....
Now that we understand love, the next step is relationships. How man of us go through life with fractured relationships? How many regret what was never said after a loved one has passed? That which is left unsaid haunts many people. Why be a victim of something so simple to solve?
Let's start with the first part of the word...relation. That's defined as the "art of restoring," bringing back. The definition defines exactly what you need to do to hold a relationship together. It's a daily struggle to restore. Some people in your life are easier to keep the bond restored with than others, and some are more of a challenge. A relationship by definition takes, wait for it,......effort! And it takes effort on both parts for a great relationship.
The second half of the word...ship. Defined as "to transport" or " a means of conveyance." It cements the definition of the root of the word. You are responsible in a relationship to send your love toward the other. So if there is a failed relationship in your life, are you holding up your end of the definition of the word?
Do you want to know how to develop and keep great relationships in your life? Here's the answer.....
Add value to that person's life everyday! It's foolproof, I'm a living example!
It always makes me wonder why this simple stuff wasn't taught in school. Then it struck me, I'd defined the school experience wrong. My mistake was, I thought education was there to prepare me for life, when in fact it was simply there to teach me how to get a job. But then, that's a whole other topic.............
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Let's start with the first part of the word...relation. That's defined as the "art of restoring," bringing back. The definition defines exactly what you need to do to hold a relationship together. It's a daily struggle to restore. Some people in your life are easier to keep the bond restored with than others, and some are more of a challenge. A relationship by definition takes, wait for it,......effort! And it takes effort on both parts for a great relationship.
The second half of the word...ship. Defined as "to transport" or " a means of conveyance." It cements the definition of the root of the word. You are responsible in a relationship to send your love toward the other. So if there is a failed relationship in your life, are you holding up your end of the definition of the word?
Do you want to know how to develop and keep great relationships in your life? Here's the answer.....
Add value to that person's life everyday! It's foolproof, I'm a living example!
It always makes me wonder why this simple stuff wasn't taught in school. Then it struck me, I'd defined the school experience wrong. My mistake was, I thought education was there to prepare me for life, when in fact it was simply there to teach me how to get a job. But then, that's a whole other topic.............
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, December 11, 2010
What Love Is!
Have you ever tried to describe the meaning of love? While most people know it when they feel it, and they find a way to express it, it's not easy to describe. I liken it to trying to tell someone who's never tried a banana what that tastes like. So I did some research. Where else would you look for a definition but the dictionary.Here's what they said....
A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness.
A feeling of intense desire and attraction toward a person with whom one is disposed to make a pair; the emotion of sex and romance.
Sexual passion.
Sexual intercourse.
A love affair.
An intense emotional attachment, as for a pet or treasured object.
A person who is the object of deep or intense affection or attraction; beloved. Often used as a term of endearment.
An expression of one's affection: Send him my love.
A strong predilection or enthusiasm: a love of language.
The object of such an enthusiasm: The outdoors is her greatest love.
Love Mythology. Eros or Cupid.
often Love Christianity. Charity.
Sports. A zero score in tennis.
Honestly? None of that explains love, it describe the results of feeling love toward someone, but it does not tell the seeker exactly what love is. So I began to wonder, if you can't define love, how can you truly express love? Everything these definitions lay out is the result of being in love. No wonder this world is in the shape it's in!
So being a man who seeks to understand, I set out to define love so everyone can understand it. Once something is understood, it can be easily explained and a course of action can be taken to achieve it. To explain love should be a boon to humanity! This, I thought, is a service to my fellow man, and a very worthy endeavor. So here it is in the simplest of terms........
Love= to give!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness.
A feeling of intense desire and attraction toward a person with whom one is disposed to make a pair; the emotion of sex and romance.
Sexual passion.
Sexual intercourse.
A love affair.
An intense emotional attachment, as for a pet or treasured object.
A person who is the object of deep or intense affection or attraction; beloved. Often used as a term of endearment.
An expression of one's affection: Send him my love.
A strong predilection or enthusiasm: a love of language.
The object of such an enthusiasm: The outdoors is her greatest love.
Love Mythology. Eros or Cupid.
often Love Christianity. Charity.
Sports. A zero score in tennis.
Honestly? None of that explains love, it describe the results of feeling love toward someone, but it does not tell the seeker exactly what love is. So I began to wonder, if you can't define love, how can you truly express love? Everything these definitions lay out is the result of being in love. No wonder this world is in the shape it's in!
So being a man who seeks to understand, I set out to define love so everyone can understand it. Once something is understood, it can be easily explained and a course of action can be taken to achieve it. To explain love should be a boon to humanity! This, I thought, is a service to my fellow man, and a very worthy endeavor. So here it is in the simplest of terms........
Love= to give!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, December 9, 2010
The Wealth of Information!
I sit here as an average citizen of this great country, and watch Washington debate how much of the top 5%'s income they can commandeer to redistribute. It frustrates me on so many levels, and the one that irks me the most is the flagrant disregard of the mantra issued in The Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal. Well, that is, unless you become financially successful, then we have to penalize you and redistribute your wealth.
Using the penalty logic, we could make the absurd argument that illegal aliens, making income and using services in this country, should be taxed at a higher rate than naturalized citizens. I'd no sooner have those words out of my mouth and most people would say that is racist. So why is it okay to be an income-ist? (Note: the spell check hated that new word, watch this one...). Washington is practicing income-ism. ( Hated that one too!) So how do you justify different tax rates for income or skin color? In America, you don't. We are all created equal and deserve equal protection under the law, that includes the tax law. Shame on you Washington!
If you want to "take" something from the wealthy and successful of this country and redistribute it, take something of use. Redistribute their work ethic! Or even better, redistribute the thinking they used to become exceptional! Now that would be something of value, and I dare say they might not find it as abusive of their God given rights. It's no secret they think differently, share that wealth, and change the entitlement attitude. That's far more valuable than any income you can tax them out of. That's why they call it a "wealth of information."
That my friends is a viable exit strategy to the "war on poverty." The battle we've been in for decades, and losing. Yet nary a word from our politicians about a plan to end this expensive battle. Yes, expensive...It's the information you don't know that costs you the most!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Using the penalty logic, we could make the absurd argument that illegal aliens, making income and using services in this country, should be taxed at a higher rate than naturalized citizens. I'd no sooner have those words out of my mouth and most people would say that is racist. So why is it okay to be an income-ist? (Note: the spell check hated that new word, watch this one...). Washington is practicing income-ism. ( Hated that one too!) So how do you justify different tax rates for income or skin color? In America, you don't. We are all created equal and deserve equal protection under the law, that includes the tax law. Shame on you Washington!
If you want to "take" something from the wealthy and successful of this country and redistribute it, take something of use. Redistribute their work ethic! Or even better, redistribute the thinking they used to become exceptional! Now that would be something of value, and I dare say they might not find it as abusive of their God given rights. It's no secret they think differently, share that wealth, and change the entitlement attitude. That's far more valuable than any income you can tax them out of. That's why they call it a "wealth of information."
That my friends is a viable exit strategy to the "war on poverty." The battle we've been in for decades, and losing. Yet nary a word from our politicians about a plan to end this expensive battle. Yes, expensive...It's the information you don't know that costs you the most!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Working Our Priorities!
I was pondering the art of relationships the other day, when I again realized how important and relevant our list of priorities are. Most people I've talked to begin this list with...
God
Family
Friends
Yet while they speak this as important, it seems that generally the category of "I" supersedes all of the above. They tend to act based upon how a situation affects themselves, rather than working their list of priorities. Perhaps if they considered how does this affect my relationship with God as the first question they might find guidance. Then consider the adage, "what would Jesus do?" Then move down the list to how does this affect my family? Followed by how does this affect my friends? All of this should be considered before the selfish question is asked, "how does this affect me?"
We should put a higher value on our relationship with God, family, and friends, before self is considered. While something may cause a rift in your life, is it a big enough issue to place a relationship in jeopardy?
Put yourself in the back seat and let your priorities navigate your life. You'll find the road becomes smoother, and the destination you seek will have a defined course.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
God
Family
Friends
Yet while they speak this as important, it seems that generally the category of "I" supersedes all of the above. They tend to act based upon how a situation affects themselves, rather than working their list of priorities. Perhaps if they considered how does this affect my relationship with God as the first question they might find guidance. Then consider the adage, "what would Jesus do?" Then move down the list to how does this affect my family? Followed by how does this affect my friends? All of this should be considered before the selfish question is asked, "how does this affect me?"
We should put a higher value on our relationship with God, family, and friends, before self is considered. While something may cause a rift in your life, is it a big enough issue to place a relationship in jeopardy?
Put yourself in the back seat and let your priorities navigate your life. You'll find the road becomes smoother, and the destination you seek will have a defined course.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Ya Gotta Have Faith!
I ran across this in the Bible the other day, I thought it might bear repeating as a reminder.....
I was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for me.
I said , "Here I am, here am I,"
To a nation that did not call on my name.
I spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people,
who walk in a way that is not good,
following their own devices;
-Isaiah 65:1 - 2
I don't know how one could improve on that, but it serves as a great reminder our nation was founded in faith. Our mission statement was, and I hope still is, freedom of religion. A nation founded in morals, character, and integrity. We've perverted those values to freedom of non-religion, bending to pressure because we lost our conviction.
Our forefathers based their revolution on the God given right to worship their maker, a conviction they were willing to die for. How many of us can say they hold their faith so dear to them, that they would put their life on the line for it? When that passion is lost, so to the original mission statement of our beginnings here in America. Faith has become to many, a vehicle of convince, rather than the passion of commitment. That's why we've permitted the absence of Christ in Christmas, the lack of prayer in school, and the decay of morals in politics.
Which brought to mind a question or two. What exactly does an Atheist or an Agnostic commit to? What is the purpose that would give them the conviction to die for?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for me.
I said , "Here I am, here am I,"
To a nation that did not call on my name.
I spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people,
who walk in a way that is not good,
following their own devices;
-Isaiah 65:1 - 2
I don't know how one could improve on that, but it serves as a great reminder our nation was founded in faith. Our mission statement was, and I hope still is, freedom of religion. A nation founded in morals, character, and integrity. We've perverted those values to freedom of non-religion, bending to pressure because we lost our conviction.
Our forefathers based their revolution on the God given right to worship their maker, a conviction they were willing to die for. How many of us can say they hold their faith so dear to them, that they would put their life on the line for it? When that passion is lost, so to the original mission statement of our beginnings here in America. Faith has become to many, a vehicle of convince, rather than the passion of commitment. That's why we've permitted the absence of Christ in Christmas, the lack of prayer in school, and the decay of morals in politics.
Which brought to mind a question or two. What exactly does an Atheist or an Agnostic commit to? What is the purpose that would give them the conviction to die for?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
If You Don't Seek, You'll Never Find!
For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.-Thessalonians 3:10
Ninety nine weeks of government sponsored unemployment benefits, soon to be extended by Congress. Who's agenda does that serve? It sure doesn't sound like the Bible sponsors this kind of behavior. If your out of work for nigh on two years, you need to find another profession, yours is full. And to be brunt, your not bringing the skills to the table the market is seeking. It's time to accept personal responsibility and provide for yourself.
I've worked for over three decades and not collected a dime of my contribution to unemployment insurance. I don't think I could sleep at night knowing I was that irresponsible. How does one lie around and convince themselves they have nothing to contribute? How can you set that kind of example? It's neither American, nor is it Christian.
The next generation is watching!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Ninety nine weeks of government sponsored unemployment benefits, soon to be extended by Congress. Who's agenda does that serve? It sure doesn't sound like the Bible sponsors this kind of behavior. If your out of work for nigh on two years, you need to find another profession, yours is full. And to be brunt, your not bringing the skills to the table the market is seeking. It's time to accept personal responsibility and provide for yourself.
I've worked for over three decades and not collected a dime of my contribution to unemployment insurance. I don't think I could sleep at night knowing I was that irresponsible. How does one lie around and convince themselves they have nothing to contribute? How can you set that kind of example? It's neither American, nor is it Christian.
The next generation is watching!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, December 6, 2010
It's Taxing!
The tax rate seems to be the topic that's on everyone's mind, and honestly most of it makes my head hurt, but there is a simple explanation that seems to elude those in Washington. So I'll explain it so a simple citizen like myself can understand what they try to make complicated with their rhetoric.
Tax rate increases have NEVER raised tax revenue, here's why. People with money have a choice, they can pay taxes on income or hide it in tax free investments like municipal bonds. Say you have $100,000.00 of income hanging around. Now the government will subject that income to a 39% federal tax leaving you with $61,000.00, or the smart option, investing in municipal bonds. While the return is minimal, you still retain your initial $100,000.00 plus the interest, a $39,000.00 savings. Even if it only pays a few percentage points of interest, you didn't get taxed the $39,000.00.
Now Washington should and does know this. When people face tax increases they shift their money from productive investments, to less productive areas, (like municipal bonds), to keep the money they've earned. This hurts the economy as it causes the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) to decrease. Here's why that's bad.
W. Kurt Hauser of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University has charted the relationship between tax revenue collected and GDP. Apparently the higher the GDP the more money the government collects! Contrary to Washington's idea that raising tax rates increases money in hand. Between 1950 and 2009 tax revenues have been between 17.9% and 20.6 percent of GDP. Despite tax rates being between 89% and 35% of taxable income. So in speak we can all understand, the rate of taxation doesn't matter, the amount of money the federal government collects is driven by the prosperity of the country,(GDP). This chart is amazing, the tax rates go from almost 90% to 35%, and the tax income remains a steady flat line.
So with that simple explanation even an elected official should be able to see, the secret to federal tax revenue is to increase the GDP. And the best way to accomplish that is to give business incentive to create wealth....,.DON'T RAISE THEIR TAXES! Unless, of course, your trying to purposely bankrupt the republic, and punish the successful.......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tax rate increases have NEVER raised tax revenue, here's why. People with money have a choice, they can pay taxes on income or hide it in tax free investments like municipal bonds. Say you have $100,000.00 of income hanging around. Now the government will subject that income to a 39% federal tax leaving you with $61,000.00, or the smart option, investing in municipal bonds. While the return is minimal, you still retain your initial $100,000.00 plus the interest, a $39,000.00 savings. Even if it only pays a few percentage points of interest, you didn't get taxed the $39,000.00.
Now Washington should and does know this. When people face tax increases they shift their money from productive investments, to less productive areas, (like municipal bonds), to keep the money they've earned. This hurts the economy as it causes the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) to decrease. Here's why that's bad.
W. Kurt Hauser of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University has charted the relationship between tax revenue collected and GDP. Apparently the higher the GDP the more money the government collects! Contrary to Washington's idea that raising tax rates increases money in hand. Between 1950 and 2009 tax revenues have been between 17.9% and 20.6 percent of GDP. Despite tax rates being between 89% and 35% of taxable income. So in speak we can all understand, the rate of taxation doesn't matter, the amount of money the federal government collects is driven by the prosperity of the country,(GDP). This chart is amazing, the tax rates go from almost 90% to 35%, and the tax income remains a steady flat line.
So with that simple explanation even an elected official should be able to see, the secret to federal tax revenue is to increase the GDP. And the best way to accomplish that is to give business incentive to create wealth....,.DON'T RAISE THEIR TAXES! Unless, of course, your trying to purposely bankrupt the republic, and punish the successful.......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, December 5, 2010
An Open Letter To Warren Buffett!
I'm a strong believer in the seven degrees of separation, where the theory that everyone has contacts that within seven of those contacts there is a connection to anyone. So with that in mind I'm composing an open letter to Mr. Warren Buffett in the hopes that our readership will see to it that it crosses his desk for consideration.
Mr. Buffett;
It has come to my attention your a vocal proponent of the tax increases for the wealthy. Here's my problem, Washington has an addiction to spending. If one of my family members acquired the habit of writing checks on an account they had no money in, the solution for me would be to take away the pen and the checks, not deposit more money in the account. I also refer you to the Declaration of Independence, where our founding fathers stated, "All men are created equal," and the proclamation engraved upon the Supreme Court building that states, "Equal justice under the law." That cannot apply and is in direct conflict with the intentions of the principles our great nation was based upon, if we tax people at different rates. It discriminates upon the basis of your degree of success and creates a division of class, not unlike the caste system of India. That is not how America was founded.
My solution to the tax increases is for you to keep your tax increase money. Your already a massively successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the definition of capitalism. I propose you take the additional income you'd have paid in the tax increase and form a charity. Hire an out of work CEO and a minimal staff to oversee the distribution of the funds to provide health care insurance for those who have preexisting conditions and cannot afford to pay the extravagant fees. The new charity, after vetting the applicants to ensure there is no fraud, could make up the difference the troubled insured might pay for standard health care and the additional required to keep them in coverage. Thereby solving the need for employment, providing coverage for those less fortunate, reducing the need for government resources, (lowering the need for tax increases), and keeping charity in the hands of the people. You could also hire staff to solicit donations from others in the top 1% bracket to form more job creating charities, relieving more of the government's burden, in lieu of donating much needed capital to a financially irresponsible federal bureaucracy.
This will allow the government to focus on their job description, and keeping them from straying into social issues that charities can handle more efficiently. There is no end to the good the top 5% income bracket can do if they'd devote the additional tax revenues toward staffing and funding charitable ventures. After all, don't they exude success in other ventures already? I realize you already do so much for charity, by why limit yourself, and why feed Washington's addiction? You can put a dent in unemployment, provide a fraud free environment for change, and most importantly add the title of "my hero" to your already impressive resume'.
It's hard to put a finger on your already massive tax burden, the figures are all over the board. I did see one report that placed your personal tax liability in 2006 @ $48.1 million or 19% of your personal income, and Berkshire Hathaway donated $1.9 billion, 26% of their gross to the IRS. The difference in that and the proposed 39% rate would allow for a serious dent to be placed in a social need. This is the kind of "outside the box" thinking that made you successful and America great.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Mr. Buffett;
It has come to my attention your a vocal proponent of the tax increases for the wealthy. Here's my problem, Washington has an addiction to spending. If one of my family members acquired the habit of writing checks on an account they had no money in, the solution for me would be to take away the pen and the checks, not deposit more money in the account. I also refer you to the Declaration of Independence, where our founding fathers stated, "All men are created equal," and the proclamation engraved upon the Supreme Court building that states, "Equal justice under the law." That cannot apply and is in direct conflict with the intentions of the principles our great nation was based upon, if we tax people at different rates. It discriminates upon the basis of your degree of success and creates a division of class, not unlike the caste system of India. That is not how America was founded.
My solution to the tax increases is for you to keep your tax increase money. Your already a massively successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the definition of capitalism. I propose you take the additional income you'd have paid in the tax increase and form a charity. Hire an out of work CEO and a minimal staff to oversee the distribution of the funds to provide health care insurance for those who have preexisting conditions and cannot afford to pay the extravagant fees. The new charity, after vetting the applicants to ensure there is no fraud, could make up the difference the troubled insured might pay for standard health care and the additional required to keep them in coverage. Thereby solving the need for employment, providing coverage for those less fortunate, reducing the need for government resources, (lowering the need for tax increases), and keeping charity in the hands of the people. You could also hire staff to solicit donations from others in the top 1% bracket to form more job creating charities, relieving more of the government's burden, in lieu of donating much needed capital to a financially irresponsible federal bureaucracy.
This will allow the government to focus on their job description, and keeping them from straying into social issues that charities can handle more efficiently. There is no end to the good the top 5% income bracket can do if they'd devote the additional tax revenues toward staffing and funding charitable ventures. After all, don't they exude success in other ventures already? I realize you already do so much for charity, by why limit yourself, and why feed Washington's addiction? You can put a dent in unemployment, provide a fraud free environment for change, and most importantly add the title of "my hero" to your already impressive resume'.
It's hard to put a finger on your already massive tax burden, the figures are all over the board. I did see one report that placed your personal tax liability in 2006 @ $48.1 million or 19% of your personal income, and Berkshire Hathaway donated $1.9 billion, 26% of their gross to the IRS. The difference in that and the proposed 39% rate would allow for a serious dent to be placed in a social need. This is the kind of "outside the box" thinking that made you successful and America great.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Welcome Aboard!
I was reviewing the stats about whom and where this blog affects. I was surprised and humbled to find "A View From Offshore", enjoys quite an international audience! Outside of the United States the strongest readership is in the Netherlands, followed closely by Canada. South Korea falls next in line, and then we spread our influence to Russia, and Germany. Surprisingly there is readership in Latvia, Poland, and also in Slovenia, quite an international flair!
So welcome! I hope you all enjoy and are brought to thought by the words assembled here. I'd like to remind everyone this is an open forum, designed to stimulate discussion. Your comments, thoughts, and jeers are shared by leaving comments, and I invite your input! Don't be offended if I don't respond, I've made my point, the comment box is for you to make yours. Remember the thought you share might be beneficial in influencing someone's life, and that's what leadership is all about. A thought not shared is a thought wasted!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill!
So welcome! I hope you all enjoy and are brought to thought by the words assembled here. I'd like to remind everyone this is an open forum, designed to stimulate discussion. Your comments, thoughts, and jeers are shared by leaving comments, and I invite your input! Don't be offended if I don't respond, I've made my point, the comment box is for you to make yours. Remember the thought you share might be beneficial in influencing someone's life, and that's what leadership is all about. A thought not shared is a thought wasted!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Doe A Dear Power Grab!
You've heard me rant about the DOE, (Department of Education), before, the bureaucracy created by Lyndon Baines Johnson using the pretext of civil rights to expand the power of the federal Government. The idea of this financial mess was to help low income families with education subsidies. So how's that working out?
The initial budget when it was formed was $13.1 billion, (inflation adjusted) and it employed 450 people. The 2010 estimated budget is....$107 billion employing 4800 government workers. Just another example of why our nation is in debt, and how every government program becomes this ever expanding festering infection.
Here's the really funny part, providing your still able to keep your sense of humor.
During the 1995 government shutdown, because of the budget crisis, 89.4 percent of those union backed government employees was deemed.....non essential, unneeded, useless, you know, a waste of our money.
Here's the scuttlebutt, the whole idea of a federally run Department of Education is unconstitutional. "Any powers not granted to the federal government belongs to the states." No where in the Constitution does it define education as a power granted to the federal government. And there is no way they can use the commerce clause to defend this one.
Who know better about the need you community has than the community itself? Who understands the challenges each and every town faces better than those with the boots on the ground? Problems are best solved and managed at the lowest level possible. But then that would lessen the power of the federal government to intrude into your life, wouldn't it? As Ronald Reagan pointed out.....
"Education is the principle responsibility of the local school system, teachers, parents,citizen boards, and state governments."
That would insure the local needs and preferences of the community are met rather than the wishes of Washington when it comes to the education of our children. But then they couldn't insure our children won't learn about creationism or how the role of religion was critical in the founding of our nation.
As Homer Simpson aptly put it...."DOE!"
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The initial budget when it was formed was $13.1 billion, (inflation adjusted) and it employed 450 people. The 2010 estimated budget is....$107 billion employing 4800 government workers. Just another example of why our nation is in debt, and how every government program becomes this ever expanding festering infection.
Here's the really funny part, providing your still able to keep your sense of humor.
During the 1995 government shutdown, because of the budget crisis, 89.4 percent of those union backed government employees was deemed.....non essential, unneeded, useless, you know, a waste of our money.
Here's the scuttlebutt, the whole idea of a federally run Department of Education is unconstitutional. "Any powers not granted to the federal government belongs to the states." No where in the Constitution does it define education as a power granted to the federal government. And there is no way they can use the commerce clause to defend this one.
Who know better about the need you community has than the community itself? Who understands the challenges each and every town faces better than those with the boots on the ground? Problems are best solved and managed at the lowest level possible. But then that would lessen the power of the federal government to intrude into your life, wouldn't it? As Ronald Reagan pointed out.....
"Education is the principle responsibility of the local school system, teachers, parents,citizen boards, and state governments."
That would insure the local needs and preferences of the community are met rather than the wishes of Washington when it comes to the education of our children. But then they couldn't insure our children won't learn about creationism or how the role of religion was critical in the founding of our nation.
As Homer Simpson aptly put it...."DOE!"
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Climate Of Liberty!
I couldn't help but notice on my sunrise stroll with my dog, that it's unseasonably cool outside. I understand it is December, but then again it is Florida, and mid 40's isn't normal by any means for this time of year. Besides, far be it from me to miss an opportunity to poke fun at Al Gore and his global warming crew, who ironically meeting at this very moment in Cancun, promoting their foolish agenda. You know, the absurd notion that man can affect or control the weather!
The only way this global warming agenda will fly is if they can convince the world that there is no higher power, and man does control his destiny. While the secular faction has made significant progress removing religion from daily life, it's no where near being at a point of a majority. It's all part of a bigger plan, they chip away at your beliefs, and soon they can call into question the definition of morality. Once there is a gray area in that definition, any behavior they can muster up can be explained as acceptable. At that point of decline, our freedom will be lost.
The whole premise our nation was founded upon crumbles. The Judeo-Christian principles will be under assault, and this experiment in liberty will be in jeopardy. The progressive machine is assaulting our country from every side. I read a survey the other day where they polled citizens of this nation and 26% of them didn't know who we won our freedom from. One in four citizens have not received the education required to answer this simple question. If they don't in fact understand how and from whom we defeated tyranny, how can they defend their personal right to be free?
Now I don't know the parameters of this survey, but in any case it is depressing. We have to know our history and have a firm understanding that religious freedom was the foundation of the building of this nation. You can't defend your liberty in a conversation with someone who doesn't believe you deserve it, if you have no idea how it was born. But then if you don't understand your freedom, do you deserve to retain it? The progressives are banking that answer is no.
"Liberty is the prevention of control by others.
This requires self-control and, therefore,
religious and spiritual influences;
education, knowledge, well-being."
-Lord Action
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The only way this global warming agenda will fly is if they can convince the world that there is no higher power, and man does control his destiny. While the secular faction has made significant progress removing religion from daily life, it's no where near being at a point of a majority. It's all part of a bigger plan, they chip away at your beliefs, and soon they can call into question the definition of morality. Once there is a gray area in that definition, any behavior they can muster up can be explained as acceptable. At that point of decline, our freedom will be lost.
The whole premise our nation was founded upon crumbles. The Judeo-Christian principles will be under assault, and this experiment in liberty will be in jeopardy. The progressive machine is assaulting our country from every side. I read a survey the other day where they polled citizens of this nation and 26% of them didn't know who we won our freedom from. One in four citizens have not received the education required to answer this simple question. If they don't in fact understand how and from whom we defeated tyranny, how can they defend their personal right to be free?
Now I don't know the parameters of this survey, but in any case it is depressing. We have to know our history and have a firm understanding that religious freedom was the foundation of the building of this nation. You can't defend your liberty in a conversation with someone who doesn't believe you deserve it, if you have no idea how it was born. But then if you don't understand your freedom, do you deserve to retain it? The progressives are banking that answer is no.
"Liberty is the prevention of control by others.
This requires self-control and, therefore,
religious and spiritual influences;
education, knowledge, well-being."
-Lord Action
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Liberty Under Assault!
Washington seems to be hellbent on a mission to deny us our liberty. It's one piece of legislation after another designed to limit our freedoms. It's a disease that infects both sides of the isle, both democrats and republicans. I was hoping that this past election wold send a message loud and clear to our representatives we don't want anymore of their interference in our lives, but there are still a few who just don't get it. Below is a list of 19 politicians who voted to censor the Internet. My prayer is if they are in your district you send them the message, with your vote, that they were sent to Washington, not to rule, but to govern.
Patrick J. Leahy -- Vermont
Herb Kohl -- Wisconsin
Jeff Sessions -- Alabama
Dianne Feinstein -- California
Orrin G. Hatch -- Utah
Russ Feingold -- Wisconsin
Chuck Grassley -- Iowa
Arlen Specter -- Pennsylvania
Jon Kyl -- Arizona
Chuck Schumer -- New York
Lindsey Graham -- South Carolina
Dick Durbin -- Illinois
John Cornyn -- Texas
Benjamin L. Cardin -- Maryland
Tom Coburn -- Oklahoma
Sheldon Whitehouse -- Rhode Island
Amy Klobuchar -- Minnesota
Al Franken -- Minnesota
Chris Coons -- Delaware
While most of them are democrats, and two, (Leahy and Coons), are basically communists, sadly there are some from the GOP. I foresee a well deserved retirement in their future......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS Just a side note, it didn't take Coons from Delaware long to confirm that Delaware failed the IQ test at the ballot box!
Patrick J. Leahy -- Vermont
Herb Kohl -- Wisconsin
Jeff Sessions -- Alabama
Dianne Feinstein -- California
Orrin G. Hatch -- Utah
Russ Feingold -- Wisconsin
Chuck Grassley -- Iowa
Arlen Specter -- Pennsylvania
Jon Kyl -- Arizona
Chuck Schumer -- New York
Lindsey Graham -- South Carolina
Dick Durbin -- Illinois
John Cornyn -- Texas
Benjamin L. Cardin -- Maryland
Tom Coburn -- Oklahoma
Sheldon Whitehouse -- Rhode Island
Amy Klobuchar -- Minnesota
Al Franken -- Minnesota
Chris Coons -- Delaware
While most of them are democrats, and two, (Leahy and Coons), are basically communists, sadly there are some from the GOP. I foresee a well deserved retirement in their future......
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS Just a side note, it didn't take Coons from Delaware long to confirm that Delaware failed the IQ test at the ballot box!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Have Tax Cuts Ever Been Liberal?
When was the last time you heard a liberal get excited about tax cuts? Especially at the federal level. Why is that? Is leaving money in your pocket strictly a conservative idea? It seems liberal politicians feel they are entitled to your income, and it's their job to spend it as they see fit. It reminds me of the time in history when people were ruled by kings and the serfs had to relinquish their hard earned crops and or money to the king's tax collectors. The serfs worked to keep the king in silk and gold.
Maybe the liberals have confused a government of the people, by the people for a monarchy where the elite are served by the lowly serfs. They've lost sight that they exist by our whim, not visa versa. They are in fact, here to serve the people.
The answer to all this lies in faith. With faith, neighbors help neighbors, and there is no need for entitlements. Could that be the reason liberals are always trying to keep religion in check or eliminate it all together? Does the practice of faith threaten their power? Does it yank the scepter of entitlements out of their hands and place that power back in the hands of the people, as intended by our founders?
You betcha!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Maybe the liberals have confused a government of the people, by the people for a monarchy where the elite are served by the lowly serfs. They've lost sight that they exist by our whim, not visa versa. They are in fact, here to serve the people.
The answer to all this lies in faith. With faith, neighbors help neighbors, and there is no need for entitlements. Could that be the reason liberals are always trying to keep religion in check or eliminate it all together? Does the practice of faith threaten their power? Does it yank the scepter of entitlements out of their hands and place that power back in the hands of the people, as intended by our founders?
You betcha!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, November 29, 2010
Feelings, Nothing More Than Feelings.........
When I was a child, one of the biggest no-no's you could perpetrate, was to answer the question, "Why did you do that?", with the standard reply, "Because I felt like it." Immediately following that statement I would feel a warm fuzzy feeling on my backside, strike that, a red hot stinging feeling. The lesson they were trying to teach me is a life ruled by the dictator of your feelings, is going down the wrong path. You should allow your life to be governed by the discipline of the guidelines laid out by our maker. I never connected the dots, but the seven deadly sins are all feeling driven actions.
Wrath
Greed
Sloth
Envy
Pride
Lust
Gluttony
Which leads me to my second point. In yesterday's blog I noted that a faction of society is trying to alter life's lessons so no one gets their "feelings" hurt. Score isn't being kept, grades are being designed as pass or fail, and any degree of exceptionalism is paved over with mediocrity being celebrated. Isn't that allowing feelings to rule your life? Shouldn't we take the lessons of failing and grow personally, ignoring the "feelings" aspect and focusing on the lesson?
Now "feelings" aren't a bad thing, we all have them, but when they become the dictator and rule your actions, we should remember that sharp stinging pain on our backside. Life is a struggle, and it's meant to be. If our youth doesn't struggle and learn life lessons, we've failed to prepare them. The key is to learn to be in control of your "feelings" and not be so emotionally immature as to allow them to overcome our thoughts and actions.
So, How's that make you feel?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wrath
Greed
Sloth
Envy
Pride
Lust
Gluttony
Which leads me to my second point. In yesterday's blog I noted that a faction of society is trying to alter life's lessons so no one gets their "feelings" hurt. Score isn't being kept, grades are being designed as pass or fail, and any degree of exceptionalism is paved over with mediocrity being celebrated. Isn't that allowing feelings to rule your life? Shouldn't we take the lessons of failing and grow personally, ignoring the "feelings" aspect and focusing on the lesson?
Now "feelings" aren't a bad thing, we all have them, but when they become the dictator and rule your actions, we should remember that sharp stinging pain on our backside. Life is a struggle, and it's meant to be. If our youth doesn't struggle and learn life lessons, we've failed to prepare them. The key is to learn to be in control of your "feelings" and not be so emotionally immature as to allow them to overcome our thoughts and actions.
So, How's that make you feel?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Play Ball...And Keep Score!
Part of the responsibility of being a Dad involved me in coaching Little League Baseball. As the luck of the draw would have it, throughout my tenure as a coach, there are many championship plaques and trophies to celebrate the teams I've been honored to be associated with. I've been blessed to show young men how to win, and how to lose. How important it is to be a gracious winner, and how to be humble and accept a loss, leaving the field aware you tired your hardest. Watching those youngsters develop into fine young men who serve the community and carry forward those lessons, is all the reward any man could ever ask for. It transcends any trophy or award that was bestowed. For all the good that has accomplished, it's being threatened by mediocrity.
For some reason our Little League has decided to ignore the traditional rules of competition and adopt policies and new rules that frankly, as someone who has participated in the sport for more decades than I care to think about, don't recognize. Even this innocent character building activity is being infected by the progressive strategy of leveling the playing field by inserting a platform of social justice. They don't keep score, everyone is an all-star, and apparently they don't make any effort to celebrate exceptionalism. America's favorite pastime has turned into a playground for progressive social justice. Instead of Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet, it's now Social Justice, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Government Motors.
How does it prepare our youth for life when if a pitcher walks six batters in a row, instead of changing the pitcher, you give him a trophy for participation? What drives a child to go home, practice and discipline himself to work harder and improve, if everyone makes the team, everyone gets a trophy, and everyone is asked to join the all-star team? While all this may avoid the tears of disappointment and frustration now, it just pushes those lessons further down the road. What teaches maturity best but adversity? Is this really a fair way to prepare our youth for life, or have we taken a page out of Washington politicians book and kicked the can further down the road? Experience is the best teacher! While not every experience is a good one, they all carry a valuable lesson. Who decided it was a good idea to rob the youth of the baseball community from these valuable lessons? Was it the Soccer Moms, can they all be that liberal?
Thank God for football!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
For some reason our Little League has decided to ignore the traditional rules of competition and adopt policies and new rules that frankly, as someone who has participated in the sport for more decades than I care to think about, don't recognize. Even this innocent character building activity is being infected by the progressive strategy of leveling the playing field by inserting a platform of social justice. They don't keep score, everyone is an all-star, and apparently they don't make any effort to celebrate exceptionalism. America's favorite pastime has turned into a playground for progressive social justice. Instead of Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet, it's now Social Justice, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Government Motors.
How does it prepare our youth for life when if a pitcher walks six batters in a row, instead of changing the pitcher, you give him a trophy for participation? What drives a child to go home, practice and discipline himself to work harder and improve, if everyone makes the team, everyone gets a trophy, and everyone is asked to join the all-star team? While all this may avoid the tears of disappointment and frustration now, it just pushes those lessons further down the road. What teaches maturity best but adversity? Is this really a fair way to prepare our youth for life, or have we taken a page out of Washington politicians book and kicked the can further down the road? Experience is the best teacher! While not every experience is a good one, they all carry a valuable lesson. Who decided it was a good idea to rob the youth of the baseball community from these valuable lessons? Was it the Soccer Moms, can they all be that liberal?
Thank God for football!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, November 27, 2010
I Didn't Have A Dream!
Yesterday I made my annual pilgrimage back to the old stomping ground for an alumni baseball game for my son's high school team. It was a pretty neat affair kind of a social gathering where everyone catches up on the scuttlebutt and a fundraiser, with a silent auction and other events designed to help this year's team financially. Before I go any further let me paint the picture of the demographics of Lee County, Florida, where this event was held.
Lee County was one of the fastest growing counties in the nation, it had room to grow and the lure of the weather and the lifestyle of the gulf coast was very attractive to anyone tired of the four seasons, especially winter. Well as nature would have it, on top of the attraction, we had two category four hurricanes hit and make housing a commodity, right in the middle of the housing bubble. Property values soared, and mortgage money was easily had, a bad combination. Needless to say, last I checked, Lee County was number two in foreclosures, just behind Las Vegas, as everyone went insane building "spec" homes to fill the need . It's affected the businesses, and the whole population, and not in a good way.
Back to our story...
Being the social butterfly that I am, I made sure to touch base with everyone I'd helped coach and took stock in where they were and what they were doing. The result of which has me up at 3 AM trying to get these thoughts on paper and out of my head. Most of my son's teammates are newly graduated or about to, so naturally my question was...What are your plans for the future? After four or five years of education, the most common answer was, I don't know. Followed by, if all else fails maybe I can get a job as a teacher. Only one former student athlete showed an inkling of promise as he was studying to be a civil engineer and planned to join the family business after graduation. I guess they call the successful the top 1% for a reason.
Here's the reason...
The rest of them didn't have a clue because they didn't have a dream of where they wanted to be. Without a dream there is no hope, without hope there is no future. If you have no aspirations, you've gone as far as your going to go. Instead of following your plan, your going to accept whatever comes your way. Now as a side bar...What does that say about who's educating our children?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Lee County was one of the fastest growing counties in the nation, it had room to grow and the lure of the weather and the lifestyle of the gulf coast was very attractive to anyone tired of the four seasons, especially winter. Well as nature would have it, on top of the attraction, we had two category four hurricanes hit and make housing a commodity, right in the middle of the housing bubble. Property values soared, and mortgage money was easily had, a bad combination. Needless to say, last I checked, Lee County was number two in foreclosures, just behind Las Vegas, as everyone went insane building "spec" homes to fill the need . It's affected the businesses, and the whole population, and not in a good way.
Back to our story...
Being the social butterfly that I am, I made sure to touch base with everyone I'd helped coach and took stock in where they were and what they were doing. The result of which has me up at 3 AM trying to get these thoughts on paper and out of my head. Most of my son's teammates are newly graduated or about to, so naturally my question was...What are your plans for the future? After four or five years of education, the most common answer was, I don't know. Followed by, if all else fails maybe I can get a job as a teacher. Only one former student athlete showed an inkling of promise as he was studying to be a civil engineer and planned to join the family business after graduation. I guess they call the successful the top 1% for a reason.
Here's the reason...
The rest of them didn't have a clue because they didn't have a dream of where they wanted to be. Without a dream there is no hope, without hope there is no future. If you have no aspirations, you've gone as far as your going to go. Instead of following your plan, your going to accept whatever comes your way. Now as a side bar...What does that say about who's educating our children?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Price Of Social Justice
The turkey is stored in the fridge ready to be my lunch for at least a week, and everything we have to be thankful about has been reset for another year. So it's time to turn my attention back toward the ever problematic federal government. Every time we elect progressive liberals into office they plant a ticking time bomb waiting to implode and be a destructive force on our federal budget and the economy. Let's take a quick look at the gifts they've left.
The first beauty is the Social Security Act, you'll recognize it as the deduction from your paycheck FICA. This gem of destruction was passed in 1935 by FDR. The FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contribution Act, they thought you wouldn't object as much if you thought you were contributing, instead of being taxed. Ergo, you'd not be as likely to cut the program if your paying into it. Here's the scoop, your not! The funds are being intermingled with other taxes used to snow job the public into thinking the politicians didn't raise their taxes. Or, they used the overflow that was supposed to be saved and spent it. So it's a tax that cons you into thinking you've vested money into the program, when in fact it was just additional tax revenue and there isn't a fund sitting there with your money in it. Just a box of IOU's, because Congress has already spent the money.
In 1965 we were blessed with yet another progressive bombshell Medicaid. This brainchild was the work of the Lyndon Baines Johnson, (yet another progressive) administration. It was an afterthought to the Medicare legislation, the other half of this two for one financial disaster. Cost estimates at the time of the debate of the Medicare legislation was 1.1 billion dollars over the first two years, and several billion dollars spread over the next decade. Long term projections had it at a 12 billion dollar outlay by 1990 inflation rates considered. The actual initial cost was 2.8 billion dollars, and the several billion over the next decade added up to 13.2 billion dollars. The actual cost of this entitlement in 1990 wasn't 12 billion dollars as projected but, wait for it....98 billion dollars.
Now we've done it again and voted in another progressive looking for social change.Progressive President Obama has gifted us his health care bill. The costs and estimates are already proving to be a fallacy invented in some spin makers head. If the Medicare program missed the mark of a 6.5 billion dollar cost projection by the actual amount of 457 billion dollars per year, how badly is this health care bill off the mark? Anybody care to wager it'll blow the other three progressive social benefits out of the water? The smart money says it will. The seeds are planted to ruin our economy. Will we ever learn?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The first beauty is the Social Security Act, you'll recognize it as the deduction from your paycheck FICA. This gem of destruction was passed in 1935 by FDR. The FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contribution Act, they thought you wouldn't object as much if you thought you were contributing, instead of being taxed. Ergo, you'd not be as likely to cut the program if your paying into it. Here's the scoop, your not! The funds are being intermingled with other taxes used to snow job the public into thinking the politicians didn't raise their taxes. Or, they used the overflow that was supposed to be saved and spent it. So it's a tax that cons you into thinking you've vested money into the program, when in fact it was just additional tax revenue and there isn't a fund sitting there with your money in it. Just a box of IOU's, because Congress has already spent the money.
In 1965 we were blessed with yet another progressive bombshell Medicaid. This brainchild was the work of the Lyndon Baines Johnson, (yet another progressive) administration. It was an afterthought to the Medicare legislation, the other half of this two for one financial disaster. Cost estimates at the time of the debate of the Medicare legislation was 1.1 billion dollars over the first two years, and several billion dollars spread over the next decade. Long term projections had it at a 12 billion dollar outlay by 1990 inflation rates considered. The actual initial cost was 2.8 billion dollars, and the several billion over the next decade added up to 13.2 billion dollars. The actual cost of this entitlement in 1990 wasn't 12 billion dollars as projected but, wait for it....98 billion dollars.
Now we've done it again and voted in another progressive looking for social change.Progressive President Obama has gifted us his health care bill. The costs and estimates are already proving to be a fallacy invented in some spin makers head. If the Medicare program missed the mark of a 6.5 billion dollar cost projection by the actual amount of 457 billion dollars per year, how badly is this health care bill off the mark? Anybody care to wager it'll blow the other three progressive social benefits out of the water? The smart money says it will. The seeds are planted to ruin our economy. Will we ever learn?
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Thursday, November 25, 2010
An Attitude of Gratitude!
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."-Colossians 3:17
Today is the day we do what we do least. We give thanks. Instead of looking for all the negative that surrounds our daily lives, today we dwell on the positive, one day a year. Isn't that the way it should be everyday?
"I used to complain that I had no shoes , till I met a man who had no feet."
An attitude of gratitude, that's what today is all about. The expression of happiness for all that is good in your life. The people who fulfill you, the roof over your head, and the food on your table.
Here's how I celebrate every year. I review my priorities. I list things by the level of importance they hold, so I can prioritize my life. When you understand what holds the most value in your life, then it's easy to put it in order. Does quality family time hold precedent over recreation? It does in my life! Is having a conversation with a loved one more important than a TV show? You betcha! Once you understand what you value in your life, you can see the blessings to be thankful for.
Let's take time from that beautiful feast and those tempting desserts to praise Him who has passed those blessings on to us.
"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."- Colossians 3:15-17
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Today is the day we do what we do least. We give thanks. Instead of looking for all the negative that surrounds our daily lives, today we dwell on the positive, one day a year. Isn't that the way it should be everyday?
"I used to complain that I had no shoes , till I met a man who had no feet."
An attitude of gratitude, that's what today is all about. The expression of happiness for all that is good in your life. The people who fulfill you, the roof over your head, and the food on your table.
Here's how I celebrate every year. I review my priorities. I list things by the level of importance they hold, so I can prioritize my life. When you understand what holds the most value in your life, then it's easy to put it in order. Does quality family time hold precedent over recreation? It does in my life! Is having a conversation with a loved one more important than a TV show? You betcha! Once you understand what you value in your life, you can see the blessings to be thankful for.
Let's take time from that beautiful feast and those tempting desserts to praise Him who has passed those blessings on to us.
"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."- Colossians 3:15-17
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Torah, Torah, Torah!!!
Being a busy travel holiday, and Americans not the happiest campers about the new screening process used to gain access to your flight, I have a solution. One thing "extreme radical Muslim terrorists" share in common is their absolute disgust with anything to do with the Jewish faith. A simple way to weed out these potential threats is to man each security line with a Rabbi in possession of the Torah.(The Torah being the five books of Moses, the entirety of Judaism's founding legal and ethical religious texts). We then have each passenger hold the Torah and swear he or she is not an "extreme radical Muslim terrorist" in possession of a bomb or any other means of harming anyone on the flight. They should also be asked to avow that Israel has a right to exist as a free and unthreatened state. The reaction will determine exactly who needs to be body scanned/cavity searched. Problem solved!
Now since our government nor the TSA is capable of thinking as poetically as I, defining everything in a literal manner, it's unlikely this foolproof policy will be taken seriously. So, since they won't take us seriously, we should return the favor in kind! WARNING!!! Use these lines at your own risk!
Sarcasm for the TSA frisking procedure....
Does this mean we're going steady?
You'd better call me in the morning!
You've got purty lips.
What no kiss first?
Slow down there buckaroo, shouldn't we do dinner first?
You could at least buy me a drink.
God Bless and travel safe!
Capt. Bill
Now since our government nor the TSA is capable of thinking as poetically as I, defining everything in a literal manner, it's unlikely this foolproof policy will be taken seriously. So, since they won't take us seriously, we should return the favor in kind! WARNING!!! Use these lines at your own risk!
Sarcasm for the TSA frisking procedure....
Does this mean we're going steady?
You'd better call me in the morning!
You've got purty lips.
What no kiss first?
Slow down there buckaroo, shouldn't we do dinner first?
You could at least buy me a drink.
God Bless and travel safe!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
It Don't Matter To The Sun!
Our forefathers really had it together when it came to the assignment of power when they designed our country. They created the three branches of government, the executive branch, (president), who makes the final decisions and holds the most power. Then there is the legislative branch,(congress), who does exactly as the name suggests and proposes laws and amendments for the President to consider. And finally we have the judicial,(the supreme court), who's task it is to ensure what is done is legal under the guidelines set up by the nations founders. But where did they find this design of a trio of powers and the system of checks and balances?
Many will rebuke the notion the founding fathers were religious men, but I find it hard to believe they didn't consider the Holy Trinity as a model. It's an obvious comparison, with the Father having the final say and the most power, the Son, and The Holy Spirit as the balance.
Combine that thought with the idea they also considered natural law. The three way split in power appears there as well. Genesis 1:16 tells us, "God made two great lights--the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars." Isn't that also a three way split of power, one that applies the same type of system of checks and balances? The sun being the greater power and ruling the day, yet the moon or the stars can be seen during the day, sort of a back up if you will. Similarly, the stars supply the light at night if the moon isn't present. A system of checks and balances, created by God, and ever present in nature.
I have to believe the roots of our system of government are planted firmly in both the teachings of the Bible, and natural law. Our founding fathers took the model sitting right in front of their nose and made our system of government.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Many will rebuke the notion the founding fathers were religious men, but I find it hard to believe they didn't consider the Holy Trinity as a model. It's an obvious comparison, with the Father having the final say and the most power, the Son, and The Holy Spirit as the balance.
Combine that thought with the idea they also considered natural law. The three way split in power appears there as well. Genesis 1:16 tells us, "God made two great lights--the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars." Isn't that also a three way split of power, one that applies the same type of system of checks and balances? The sun being the greater power and ruling the day, yet the moon or the stars can be seen during the day, sort of a back up if you will. Similarly, the stars supply the light at night if the moon isn't present. A system of checks and balances, created by God, and ever present in nature.
I have to believe the roots of our system of government are planted firmly in both the teachings of the Bible, and natural law. Our founding fathers took the model sitting right in front of their nose and made our system of government.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, November 22, 2010
Oh Lord, It's Hard To Be Humble!
"To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in it."- Mother Theresa
We have to humble enough to understand, we don't know it all, and never will. Humility creates personal growth! We plant seeds of success by being grounded and rooted in humility. There is no real humility without success, and no real success without humility.
A fruitful crop is rarely the product of an unattended and overgrown garden. Treat your mind with the fertile input of the teachings of great men. As the computer programmers are fond of saying, "garbage in, garbage out!" You'll be surprised what flows out of your mouth when your head is full of good input!
It's a difficult lesson to learn that when you graduate school, your not done learning. Learning is a lifetime process. Those that find themselves married to false humility- not going after what they deserve, or not fulfilling their potential, going after the full use of all their talents-endure humiliation, the very apex of humility. So we can accept the fact we don't know it all, or have the embarrassment of being exposed as a poser. God works in mysterious ways, well not really!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
We have to humble enough to understand, we don't know it all, and never will. Humility creates personal growth! We plant seeds of success by being grounded and rooted in humility. There is no real humility without success, and no real success without humility.
A fruitful crop is rarely the product of an unattended and overgrown garden. Treat your mind with the fertile input of the teachings of great men. As the computer programmers are fond of saying, "garbage in, garbage out!" You'll be surprised what flows out of your mouth when your head is full of good input!
It's a difficult lesson to learn that when you graduate school, your not done learning. Learning is a lifetime process. Those that find themselves married to false humility- not going after what they deserve, or not fulfilling their potential, going after the full use of all their talents-endure humiliation, the very apex of humility. So we can accept the fact we don't know it all, or have the embarrassment of being exposed as a poser. God works in mysterious ways, well not really!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Houston...We Have A Problem!
Oh this just keeps getting better! The tyrants at the TSA, empowered by the liberal Obama administration have evoked yet another police state like mandate. Your going to love this one! If you enter the line and decide to decline to pass through the body scanner, and also believe that their hands patting down the private parts of your body is just a little to evasive for your tastes, you cannot leave the airport. You will be detained for police questioning and subject to a possible $11,000.00 fine. Whatever you do don't enter the security line and remember you forgot your cell phone in the car!
What does the dictator in the White house have to say for his minions stomping on your freedom of choice? "I've consulted with the TSA and Homeland Security officials and this is the only policy they can arrive at, at this time." So because of an invented emergency, it's okay to deny you of the right to choose. What's next? What freedom granted to you by our forefathers is going to be taken away next because it's for your own good? Could it be the right to bear arms? How about freedom of speech? They already have a full frontal assault on freedom of religion going on, and they didn't even have to declare an emergency to do it!
It'll soon be the ten year anniversary of the attacks of 9/11, and this is the best we can do. How does the most inventive, entrepreneurial nation in the world stand in checkmate, a victim of fear? We're sacrificing the very rights our ancestors fought and gave their lives for, in the name of security. You can count on one hand the number of attempts to use terrorism in the air in the past ten years, in which time millions of flights cross the sky safely, yet we allow it to alter our daily routines, and bypass our liberty.
We are not attacking the root of the problem, we are simply looking for the weeds to pop up. We aren't treating the disease, we are trying to ease the symptoms. It's time to take measures that confront the problem head on, and stop poking around the edges. I'm sorry if that could be described as profiling, but someone with criminal intent in their heart, rights, are simply less important then mine!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
What does the dictator in the White house have to say for his minions stomping on your freedom of choice? "I've consulted with the TSA and Homeland Security officials and this is the only policy they can arrive at, at this time." So because of an invented emergency, it's okay to deny you of the right to choose. What's next? What freedom granted to you by our forefathers is going to be taken away next because it's for your own good? Could it be the right to bear arms? How about freedom of speech? They already have a full frontal assault on freedom of religion going on, and they didn't even have to declare an emergency to do it!
It'll soon be the ten year anniversary of the attacks of 9/11, and this is the best we can do. How does the most inventive, entrepreneurial nation in the world stand in checkmate, a victim of fear? We're sacrificing the very rights our ancestors fought and gave their lives for, in the name of security. You can count on one hand the number of attempts to use terrorism in the air in the past ten years, in which time millions of flights cross the sky safely, yet we allow it to alter our daily routines, and bypass our liberty.
We are not attacking the root of the problem, we are simply looking for the weeds to pop up. We aren't treating the disease, we are trying to ease the symptoms. It's time to take measures that confront the problem head on, and stop poking around the edges. I'm sorry if that could be described as profiling, but someone with criminal intent in their heart, rights, are simply less important then mine!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Hindsight Is 20/20
A quick and simple note this morning for you to think about. Lawmakers, our elected representatives are asking the TSA to review security procedures at the airports. The public outrage has reached all the way to Capital Hill. The requests are falling on deaf ears. This is just one example of the mini tyrannical regimes this government has created outside of the Constitution.
Ben Franklin once said," He who sacrifices freedom for security will have neither."
Point taken and understood Ben. Our forefathers were very wise men. It's time we went back to listening to them.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Ben Franklin once said," He who sacrifices freedom for security will have neither."
Point taken and understood Ben. Our forefathers were very wise men. It's time we went back to listening to them.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, November 19, 2010
Be Yourself, It's Like No Other!
To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing it's best, night and day, to make you everybody else-means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight- E. E. Cummings
Every person is an unrepeatable miracle, at least in God's eye. Yet isn't society trying to push us all into a mold? First it starts in our government schools, where we are subjected to standardized testing. Your answers are to be defined as right or wrong, with no room for discussion of other ideas. In school we are instructed to get a job, we're not taught to think creatively and become entrepreneurs. Instead of being taught character, we are taught to be characters. Puppets in the play of life. Forced to become a molded brick, instead of enhancing our individuality and allowed to be as diverse as a stone. Each one different, each one unique!
"Because there are no formulas to attain the truth of the road, each of us must run the risk of his own steps. Only the ignorant seek to imitate the behavior of others. Intelligent men waste no time with that, they develop their personal abilities, they know there are no leaves alike in a forest of 100,000 trees. No two journeys on the same road are alike."-Sufi Hafiz
As we emerge from the government schooling we are thrust into a world where individuality is a bad thing. The desire is to level the playing field, make everything the same for everyone. The diversity of culture is lost by people trying to evolve us into a one color, one culture world. While the "party of they" try to act like they celebrate our uniqueness, they strive to herd each of us under one umbrella. Conformity creates less problems for them to deal with, but it also robs us of our cultural heritage.
In the Bible, God destroyed the Tower of Babble. It was an effort to bring one world, one language into fruition. There are forces in this world dedicated to reenact that story. Listen carefully to their rhetoric and expose them for the dysfunction they are trying to create. Remember......
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world!" -Mahatma Ghandi
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Every person is an unrepeatable miracle, at least in God's eye. Yet isn't society trying to push us all into a mold? First it starts in our government schools, where we are subjected to standardized testing. Your answers are to be defined as right or wrong, with no room for discussion of other ideas. In school we are instructed to get a job, we're not taught to think creatively and become entrepreneurs. Instead of being taught character, we are taught to be characters. Puppets in the play of life. Forced to become a molded brick, instead of enhancing our individuality and allowed to be as diverse as a stone. Each one different, each one unique!
"Because there are no formulas to attain the truth of the road, each of us must run the risk of his own steps. Only the ignorant seek to imitate the behavior of others. Intelligent men waste no time with that, they develop their personal abilities, they know there are no leaves alike in a forest of 100,000 trees. No two journeys on the same road are alike."-Sufi Hafiz
As we emerge from the government schooling we are thrust into a world where individuality is a bad thing. The desire is to level the playing field, make everything the same for everyone. The diversity of culture is lost by people trying to evolve us into a one color, one culture world. While the "party of they" try to act like they celebrate our uniqueness, they strive to herd each of us under one umbrella. Conformity creates less problems for them to deal with, but it also robs us of our cultural heritage.
In the Bible, God destroyed the Tower of Babble. It was an effort to bring one world, one language into fruition. There are forces in this world dedicated to reenact that story. Listen carefully to their rhetoric and expose them for the dysfunction they are trying to create. Remember......
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world!" -Mahatma Ghandi
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Fly The Friendly Skies!
The latest controversy this administration has stirred up is the new body scanners, pat downs, and airport security in general. Naturally I have a solution, one that keeps our dignity and freedom in tact, and as usual it's something the "educated elite" of the ruling class hasn't considered.
To solve any problem you have to begin with the end goal in mind. So as a stated goal, we need to provide a safe means of air travel and keep our dignity and freedoms intact. Anything outside of this stated objective is a distraction, and is designed to muddle up achieving the goal.
Let's first look at the profile,(yes I said profile) of the problem creator. Number one they are mostly from outside the country, hence anyone traveling on a passport should be subject to body scanning and questioning. The freedoms of domestic travelers won't then be violated. Grandma and cousin Sally traveling from Huntington, West Virginia to Orlando, Florida to visit Disney World aren't likely bomb toting threats. They should be subject to a simple verification of ticket and ID, walk through the already present technology, then sent on their merry way. Just to be sure they aren't working as operatives for the enemy via them kidnapping Uncle Ned, we'll double check and scan their luggage and carry on's for explosives. Anyone acting nervously, suspiciously, and or sweating profusely in the controlled environment of the airport should also be sent to the line for closer examination. There is an MO for criminal behavior.
Let's be sure the security staff at airports are trained security professionals. Educated in all of the specific signs of criminal behavior. Not someone they grabbed off the street and stuffed into a TSA uniform. I'd like to think of those wonderful people who guard our flying safety as law enforcement professionals!
The right to privacy and the freedoms we enjoy are granted to citizens of this country. If your here on a visa or traveling on a passport, you're not a citizen, you're a guest. Pardon our manners but we need to be assured your a welcome guest. Anyone who hasn't left the country or isn't on a fly watch list is highly unlikely to have been corrupted by a terrorist. Focus should be on the international traveler. This will ease the lines at airport security and keep the dignity and rights of the local traveler in tact. Use the evasive technology on those who best represent the threat.
Our enemy isn't all that tricky. The few from within the country they've managed to corrupt fit into a small little box of parameters. It's not that complicated. While they find new ways to transport weapons, the carriers of said weapons are very well defined. Focus first on the suspect, then on the contraband. When police are looking for a robbery suspect, they have a description to narrow the parameters. Profiling is a law enforcement tool, not a violation of civil rights.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
To solve any problem you have to begin with the end goal in mind. So as a stated goal, we need to provide a safe means of air travel and keep our dignity and freedoms intact. Anything outside of this stated objective is a distraction, and is designed to muddle up achieving the goal.
Let's first look at the profile,(yes I said profile) of the problem creator. Number one they are mostly from outside the country, hence anyone traveling on a passport should be subject to body scanning and questioning. The freedoms of domestic travelers won't then be violated. Grandma and cousin Sally traveling from Huntington, West Virginia to Orlando, Florida to visit Disney World aren't likely bomb toting threats. They should be subject to a simple verification of ticket and ID, walk through the already present technology, then sent on their merry way. Just to be sure they aren't working as operatives for the enemy via them kidnapping Uncle Ned, we'll double check and scan their luggage and carry on's for explosives. Anyone acting nervously, suspiciously, and or sweating profusely in the controlled environment of the airport should also be sent to the line for closer examination. There is an MO for criminal behavior.
Let's be sure the security staff at airports are trained security professionals. Educated in all of the specific signs of criminal behavior. Not someone they grabbed off the street and stuffed into a TSA uniform. I'd like to think of those wonderful people who guard our flying safety as law enforcement professionals!
The right to privacy and the freedoms we enjoy are granted to citizens of this country. If your here on a visa or traveling on a passport, you're not a citizen, you're a guest. Pardon our manners but we need to be assured your a welcome guest. Anyone who hasn't left the country or isn't on a fly watch list is highly unlikely to have been corrupted by a terrorist. Focus should be on the international traveler. This will ease the lines at airport security and keep the dignity and rights of the local traveler in tact. Use the evasive technology on those who best represent the threat.
Our enemy isn't all that tricky. The few from within the country they've managed to corrupt fit into a small little box of parameters. It's not that complicated. While they find new ways to transport weapons, the carriers of said weapons are very well defined. Focus first on the suspect, then on the contraband. When police are looking for a robbery suspect, they have a description to narrow the parameters. Profiling is a law enforcement tool, not a violation of civil rights.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
From HIS Mouth, To Your Ears!
The liberal view has driven our nation to attempt to level the playing field, confusing equal opportunity with social justice. In the liberals socially just world, the lay about is given everything the industrious person has. It's muddled together the citizens who are in need of charity, with the habitually lazy who've learned to navigate the system in lieu of gainful employment. Their drive to not keep score so no one gets their feelings hurt has impaired the work ethic this nation is oh so famous for.
The quest to create utopia on earth I've discussed in a previous post. Heaven is not on earth, it's what we struggle to attain as our reward for being God fearing servants. The level playing field is our reward, and in the Bible it says as much...
"In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain shall be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken."-Isaiah 39:3-5
That puts it all into perspective for me. The playing field will be level when we EARN our reward of heaven. The struggle we have here on earth is the pathway to social justice.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
The quest to create utopia on earth I've discussed in a previous post. Heaven is not on earth, it's what we struggle to attain as our reward for being God fearing servants. The level playing field is our reward, and in the Bible it says as much...
"In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain shall be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken."-Isaiah 39:3-5
That puts it all into perspective for me. The playing field will be level when we EARN our reward of heaven. The struggle we have here on earth is the pathway to social justice.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Monday, November 15, 2010
Be All You Can Be, And Paid Accordingly!
Friday I listened to one of the most creative and effective, common sense solutions to lowering the budget, brought forth by Glenn Beck. He suggested no member of office in Washington receive more income or benefits than the men and women that serve our country in the armed forces. What a spectacular idea! Those patriots gamble more everyday in the service of our nation, than the whole legislative body combined during their complete term of service. It would insure that those brave souls would get medical care second to none, as they most assuredly deserve.
Pay grades of Senators and Congressmen would be reduced to the salaries they have seen fit to give to the soldiers who fight everyday so we can be free of tyranny. Barrack type housing could be built for the law makers to inhabit during their stay in Washington. That might encourage them to enact much needed term limits, and discourage the self serving money grubbing politicians that consider the oath of office a life long coronation.
How small would government become if all the aides and other employees of the big government machine, were demoted to the pay grade of a military aide? I'm telling you, this idea is gold, and it makes so much sense! Why shouldn't those who have the highest risk be rewarded equally? You have to agree it would go a long way toward balancing the budget, to adjust government employees to a pay scale matching our fighting force.
Some may argue we won't attract the best people then, Really? Are we honestly in the hands of the best people now? Would you want to attract the best people to defend your freedom? Isn't that a statement about how unappreciated our service men and women are, and over paid our lawmakers have become? Shouldn't our priorities be on the defense of freedom, not the increased legislation that denies us our liberties?
Politicians have this unbelievable ability to increase their net worth while holding office by some incredible force that magically compounds their assets. This needs to stop, if not now than sooner. We didn't elect them to line their pockets at our expense, and this suggestion of a military pay grade system equal to those who really serve our country is the answer. That legislation I can get behind!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Pay grades of Senators and Congressmen would be reduced to the salaries they have seen fit to give to the soldiers who fight everyday so we can be free of tyranny. Barrack type housing could be built for the law makers to inhabit during their stay in Washington. That might encourage them to enact much needed term limits, and discourage the self serving money grubbing politicians that consider the oath of office a life long coronation.
How small would government become if all the aides and other employees of the big government machine, were demoted to the pay grade of a military aide? I'm telling you, this idea is gold, and it makes so much sense! Why shouldn't those who have the highest risk be rewarded equally? You have to agree it would go a long way toward balancing the budget, to adjust government employees to a pay scale matching our fighting force.
Some may argue we won't attract the best people then, Really? Are we honestly in the hands of the best people now? Would you want to attract the best people to defend your freedom? Isn't that a statement about how unappreciated our service men and women are, and over paid our lawmakers have become? Shouldn't our priorities be on the defense of freedom, not the increased legislation that denies us our liberties?
Politicians have this unbelievable ability to increase their net worth while holding office by some incredible force that magically compounds their assets. This needs to stop, if not now than sooner. We didn't elect them to line their pockets at our expense, and this suggestion of a military pay grade system equal to those who really serve our country is the answer. That legislation I can get behind!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Sunday, November 14, 2010
The Friendly Skies?
Last night as I flew in from our nation's capital, I was blessed to be seated among several families flying with their children to the "happiest place on earth." Now some see this as an inconvenience but I choose to accept it for the blessing and the learning experience it is.
One particular little fellow was snoozing on his Mother's lap when his sibling decided it would be a good idea to relocate his seat next to his Dad, which caused Mom to have to switch seats, jarring the sleeping toddler from his much needed rest. The tirade that ensued was spectacular to say the least! He balled, cried, wailed, and basically let everyone in hearing distance know he wasn't happy. Now I understand being cranky when abruptly awakened from a much needed sleep, but this little guy took it to a whole new level! Mom tried everything under the sun to make this young man comfortable enough to return to his slumber but it just wasn't to be! The whole family was obviously embarrassed, but that didn't slow this little tyke down a lick.
Comments from the peanut gallery flew, as the passengers were uncomfortable with this situation,and as the second hour of this rant approached the comments and tsk's of disgust were flying. The woman next to me spouted,"this is the worse flight I've ever been on." I had to reply. I turned to her and reminded her that that poor little guy isn't in control of his emotions yet, but she on the other hand should be. As an adult it's our responsibility to accept adversity and find the best in it. Just a week or so ago I was on the very same flight, and a older gentleman passed away in mid route, causing us to turn around and go back, delaying our arrival by and hour and a half. I also noted that as long as we arrived safely with no other additional problems we had something to be thankful for. In fact our flight arrived forty minuets early and she was being spared irritation by her obvious dislike of children. Then I drove home th final nail, "What if it was your Son?" The attitude of the passengers changed at the second that statement was made.
People never cease to amaze me. They create their own misery instead of looking for the good in each situation. My boys are a couple of decades removed from that age, but it brought me back to the time when they were reliant upon me to ease their pain, and see to their comfort. I miss that responsibility. I told the distressed Father after we had landed what a lucky guy he was. He was happy to hear his Son was on the path to success, after all, with the kind of determination and persistance that little guy showed on the plane, he was bound to soar to big heights. The cranky old biddy found a smile somewhere in that heart of coal, and told the frustrated parents she hoped their Son would feel better soon.
Being a good finder pays off. Spread that feeling through your actions and words. Trust me it's contagious, and the world needs a big dose of it.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS. Great people talk about ideas, average people talk about things, small people talk about other people.
And....
"Frustration means we are focusing too much on ourselves!" -Orrin Woodward
One particular little fellow was snoozing on his Mother's lap when his sibling decided it would be a good idea to relocate his seat next to his Dad, which caused Mom to have to switch seats, jarring the sleeping toddler from his much needed rest. The tirade that ensued was spectacular to say the least! He balled, cried, wailed, and basically let everyone in hearing distance know he wasn't happy. Now I understand being cranky when abruptly awakened from a much needed sleep, but this little guy took it to a whole new level! Mom tried everything under the sun to make this young man comfortable enough to return to his slumber but it just wasn't to be! The whole family was obviously embarrassed, but that didn't slow this little tyke down a lick.
Comments from the peanut gallery flew, as the passengers were uncomfortable with this situation,and as the second hour of this rant approached the comments and tsk's of disgust were flying. The woman next to me spouted,"this is the worse flight I've ever been on." I had to reply. I turned to her and reminded her that that poor little guy isn't in control of his emotions yet, but she on the other hand should be. As an adult it's our responsibility to accept adversity and find the best in it. Just a week or so ago I was on the very same flight, and a older gentleman passed away in mid route, causing us to turn around and go back, delaying our arrival by and hour and a half. I also noted that as long as we arrived safely with no other additional problems we had something to be thankful for. In fact our flight arrived forty minuets early and she was being spared irritation by her obvious dislike of children. Then I drove home th final nail, "What if it was your Son?" The attitude of the passengers changed at the second that statement was made.
People never cease to amaze me. They create their own misery instead of looking for the good in each situation. My boys are a couple of decades removed from that age, but it brought me back to the time when they were reliant upon me to ease their pain, and see to their comfort. I miss that responsibility. I told the distressed Father after we had landed what a lucky guy he was. He was happy to hear his Son was on the path to success, after all, with the kind of determination and persistance that little guy showed on the plane, he was bound to soar to big heights. The cranky old biddy found a smile somewhere in that heart of coal, and told the frustrated parents she hoped their Son would feel better soon.
Being a good finder pays off. Spread that feeling through your actions and words. Trust me it's contagious, and the world needs a big dose of it.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
PS. Great people talk about ideas, average people talk about things, small people talk about other people.
And....
"Frustration means we are focusing too much on ourselves!" -Orrin Woodward
Saturday, November 13, 2010
"But Do You Know How".........
Stevie Nicks, of Fleet wood Mac fame, once sung..."Do you know how, to pick up the pieces and go home?" Great question! So how do we handle failure? Do you allow it to be a devastating blow, or are you mature enough to learn from the experience? The question applies to business ventures, grades, relationships, or any number of experiences dealt to us in the game of life.
I've found one of the great methods to rebound quickly is to count you blessings, then understand there is a blessing in the lesson of failure. Seek and you shall find. Once you get in the mode of appreciating all the great things God has blessed you with, it changes the perspective of the let down. It also helps to reaffirm that set backs are only as permanent as you let them be, it's not a life threatening diagnosis. Well, that is, if you choose.
See we do have a choice, and that's the beauty of the whole system. We are free to control our attitude. No one holds that power over us, unless of course we grant them permission, and shame on you if you do! Grab hold of the good, and let the vile bitterness belong to someone else. Accept the responsibility of owning your decisions. Passing them on to someone or something else may relieve you of the responsibility, but it also steals the power to control your life away from you. Isn't it you that knows best what your goals and dreams are? Circumstances don't define the individual, attitude is the defining factor. Smile, and have a great day!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
I've found one of the great methods to rebound quickly is to count you blessings, then understand there is a blessing in the lesson of failure. Seek and you shall find. Once you get in the mode of appreciating all the great things God has blessed you with, it changes the perspective of the let down. It also helps to reaffirm that set backs are only as permanent as you let them be, it's not a life threatening diagnosis. Well, that is, if you choose.
See we do have a choice, and that's the beauty of the whole system. We are free to control our attitude. No one holds that power over us, unless of course we grant them permission, and shame on you if you do! Grab hold of the good, and let the vile bitterness belong to someone else. Accept the responsibility of owning your decisions. Passing them on to someone or something else may relieve you of the responsibility, but it also steals the power to control your life away from you. Isn't it you that knows best what your goals and dreams are? Circumstances don't define the individual, attitude is the defining factor. Smile, and have a great day!
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Friday, November 12, 2010
To Be Or Not To Be......
I have mixed feelings about facing tomorrow. My youngest son is winding down his college football career playing his final game of his senior season. New challenges await, and the unknown looms in the background.
Anytime there is a level change in sports, say from high school to college, or from college to the professional stage, an adjustment must be made by the player. As a senior in high school you step from top dog starter on the field to lowly freshman recruit, surrounded by a hundred just as talented and just as recruited as you. Nothing is taken for granted and you have to reprove yourself to your coaches and colleagues. It's a slice of humble pie that many players and parents have trouble accepting. Especially from high school to college. You left an environment that collected whatever talent was available and created a team, to one that recruited the best talent in the nation. The competition for a starting position is a bar that is much higher than in high school! Only the top 5% go on to play at the college level, and only the top 1% of those get an opportunity to play as a pro. The cream truly does rise to the top.
It's funny to watch incoming freshman and their parents as they make the adjustment. The consumption of humble pie is rampant as they learn that the fruit of their loins is being "red-shirted." That all-star of high school fame was just told he's not up to speed to join on the field yet, but after a year of weight training and the teaching of the system, he'll be the kind of player this team needs. You then see what kind of mettle that athlete has. Is he a quitter, or does he have the stick-to-it-ness required to be one of the ten or twelve that survive four or five years of college football, when a hundred began the quest? It's an adjustment process that defines the man. One of the first statements he makes about how his life will be defined. You can liken it to the struggle a hatch-ling has fighting to emerge from it's egg shell. One it has to go through to be strong enough to survive and one day fly. Any assistance from an onlooker, even with the best intentions, sentences the bird to death, as the struggle is a necessary part of life itself. It's a great process to be a part of, and even more entertaining to observe.
A new adjustment period begins for us as of Sunday. The best of the best will now compete to be good enough to be paid to play the sport they love. And you have to love, eat, sleep, and be absorbed by the game to be successful at the next level. After all, your joining the elite, the top one percent of any profession is a hard nut to crack. As of Saturday evening my hatch-ling is going to get his chance at his wings. It's going to be hard once again to watch the struggle as he breaks out of the shell that now confines him, into a whole new world of opportunity. Whatever the outcome, I couldn't be a prouder Dad.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
Anytime there is a level change in sports, say from high school to college, or from college to the professional stage, an adjustment must be made by the player. As a senior in high school you step from top dog starter on the field to lowly freshman recruit, surrounded by a hundred just as talented and just as recruited as you. Nothing is taken for granted and you have to reprove yourself to your coaches and colleagues. It's a slice of humble pie that many players and parents have trouble accepting. Especially from high school to college. You left an environment that collected whatever talent was available and created a team, to one that recruited the best talent in the nation. The competition for a starting position is a bar that is much higher than in high school! Only the top 5% go on to play at the college level, and only the top 1% of those get an opportunity to play as a pro. The cream truly does rise to the top.
It's funny to watch incoming freshman and their parents as they make the adjustment. The consumption of humble pie is rampant as they learn that the fruit of their loins is being "red-shirted." That all-star of high school fame was just told he's not up to speed to join on the field yet, but after a year of weight training and the teaching of the system, he'll be the kind of player this team needs. You then see what kind of mettle that athlete has. Is he a quitter, or does he have the stick-to-it-ness required to be one of the ten or twelve that survive four or five years of college football, when a hundred began the quest? It's an adjustment process that defines the man. One of the first statements he makes about how his life will be defined. You can liken it to the struggle a hatch-ling has fighting to emerge from it's egg shell. One it has to go through to be strong enough to survive and one day fly. Any assistance from an onlooker, even with the best intentions, sentences the bird to death, as the struggle is a necessary part of life itself. It's a great process to be a part of, and even more entertaining to observe.
A new adjustment period begins for us as of Sunday. The best of the best will now compete to be good enough to be paid to play the sport they love. And you have to love, eat, sleep, and be absorbed by the game to be successful at the next level. After all, your joining the elite, the top one percent of any profession is a hard nut to crack. As of Saturday evening my hatch-ling is going to get his chance at his wings. It's going to be hard once again to watch the struggle as he breaks out of the shell that now confines him, into a whole new world of opportunity. Whatever the outcome, I couldn't be a prouder Dad.
God Bless!
Capt. Bill
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