Sunday, October 31, 2010

Better or Worse?

Yesterday, as I drove through the hollers of north western West Virginia, I saw a beautiful sight off in the distance. A few fields over, visible only because the leaves have evacuated the trees, were a flock of wild turkey. They were on the edge of the wood, jumping up and down, performing some kind of pecking order ritual. In my younger days I'd have pulled over, pulled my camo's out of the back, grabbed my shotgun or my bow and proceeded to practice the skills of my ancient ancestors, reviving the hunter/gatherer art that man used to use for survival. But I was in a rental car, out of state, older and without all that equipment I always held so dear.

As I drove further I crossed into Pennsylvania and began to see cars dotted along side the highway, seemingly abandoned. Then I realized they were in the wood hunting. I saw two of the hunters emerge, dressed in their fluorescent orange hunting attire and thought back to the turkey. The government has mandated that now we, hunter/gatherers, wear a reflective plastic fluorescent suit so we can be safe in the wood from being shot by each other, making it pretty much impossible to blend in during a stalk, or even stalk as the plastic is about as quiet as the movement of a bag of potato chips. Then I pondered, just who are they really protecting? I've not done the research but I'd be prone to believe there are less hunters injured or killed annually than there are football players in a season. Where is the government regulation there? Or better yet, why has the government stuck it's nose into the safety of hunting? Where in the Constitution does it bequeath that power to legislators? I'm sure Daniel Boone or Davey Crockett are turning in their grave.

I wasn't done on my journey through government intrusion. As I drove further on I decided to take the Pennsylvania Turnpike, a toll road I gladly paid my admission for because it shaved time off my trip. After depositing the government impose tax money into the toll, I came upon a sign for construction. It was funded by the Community Reinvestment Act as boasted by the sign,(stimulus money). My mind began to wander, as it often does and question, where is the accountability? The toll I paid was money designated to keep the turnpike in repair, so why are the rest of the forty nine states asked to give their tax money to keep the Pennsylvania Turnpike in repair, when a fund was set aside, fueled by the tolls from those who actually used the road? What about the Federal tax money collected on the gasoline and diesel purchases, also designed for road maintenance?

Then came the kicker, I deplaned in Orlando, Florida, a liberal leaning population center and saw the rarest of sights. There right on the side of the road was a sign asking voters to vote YES on proposition 4. Let me keep you up to speed, proposition 4 is about as popular in Florida as a skunk in a perfume factory. It is suggesting the voters let the consideration of growth planning be put on the ballot for the whole state. Basically it's trying to subvert our state government from the founder's principles of a representative Republic, to the mob rule of a democracy. Instead of local growth issues being solved at the lowest possible level, you know the people it actually affects, it opens it up for special interests to abuse our voting system, and the kicker is, they can't tell us the price tag of this referendum. It's been tried and failed in St Petersburg, and that's the beauty of the system. If bad legislation is enacted in a community, you can either change it, or move. If the whole state is infected with this law, it complicates the moving thing. I just struck me funny the proposers of this unpopular bill, would concentrate their efforts on the liberal urban areas, hoping the volume of voters there can change the will of the rest of the state.

It was a great day to be a conservative out touring the country. I got to see first hand the usefulness, waste, mishandling of our money, and the treachery of government in one twenty four hour trip. Ask yourself before you vote this Tuesday...Am I better off now than I was two years ago? Has government intrusion enhanced my life? Is the government the best steward of my money and trust? Then cast your ballots accordingly!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Friday, October 29, 2010

Charitable Concepts!

To understand how to deal with unemployment, unaffordable healthcare and any problem faced by the less fortunate in America, I propose we delve into some principles of our forefathers. They believed, and rightfully so.that the answers to social problems lie on the shoulders of the people, not the government. The trip from poverty to prosperity has a formula that involves seven steps. They are all designed to be applied by charitable organizations within the community, not the government.

From the book, "Renewing American Compassion," by Marvin Olasky, here are the seven steps!

Affiliation: Connect people with families and communities that can best relate to them

Bonding: Help people on a one on one basis.

Categorization: Personalize charity according to individual need.

Discernment: Practice responsibility giving; know who you're giving to and why!

Employment: Demand work. "Labor is the life to society, and the beggar who will not work is a social cannibal feeding on that life."

Freedom: This is not the opportunity to do anything with anyone at any time, but is the opportunity to work and worship without governmental interruption.

God: God is compassionate, but demands change.

Powerful stuff! I propose we revisit these ideals and put them into action immediately, lowering the debt ceiling and putting the power of charity back in the hands of the people.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Cancer And History!

If history teaches us nothing else, it should be obvious that Empires deteriorate from the inside out. The United States of America is in a battle right now with a cancer from within. We are trying to overcome the unconquerable law of economics. Simply stated, if expenses are higher than revenues for an extended period of time, there will be negative consequences.

Edward Gibbon wrote in his book "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire," that, "Human freedom is the first wish of our heart; freedom is the first blessing of our nature." But people are inclined to shirk individual responsibility and fall prey to tyranny, by expecting more entitlements from government.

How does government fool us to accept freedom's self destruction? They push for intellectual mediocrity, after all, didn't we rely upon them to provide our education? Gibbon also notes that when, "The minds of men were gradually reduced to the same level, the fire of genius was extinguished." After a while in Rome, education became the right of the few, the elite class. Creating a society that seeks to equalize incentives for work, quashing individual exceptionalism. If any of this sounds familiar, it's not by accident. Aren't we now governed by "Ivy League" intellectuals, who are advised by those who taught theory in those same institutions? Or perhaps you've noticed the leveling of the playing field in the work force by union influence sponsored by those same "elitists" running our government?

Rome's decline in "civic vitality" was deceitfully hidden by artfully offering entertainment and freebies a plenty to deflect the discontent of the masses. While Nero fiddled, Rome fell! Feed them, distract them, and they won't notice you've collapsed their economy. Once again, if your finding this eerily familiar, it's not by chance. Aren't two liberal leaning comedians invading the Mall in Washington DC this weekend to distract you from the Progressive agenda? It's a page right out of Roman Emperor Diocletain's playbook!

Hey, I'm not done! You can't convict those promoting this agenda without a full body of evidence. So check out this "coincidence." With Romans distracted with entertainment,and the entitlements flowing exempting the poor from the necessities of labor, corruption was rampant. Class warfare and resentment soon followed. The "haves' were hated and demonized by the "have-nots." Now I'm not one to point out the apparent, but doesn't this sound exactly like the call from the left to tax the upper income citizens and "big corporations", to level the playing field and redistribute the wealth? Add a little voter fraud and mix in some apathy and couldn't this be a description of modern day?

We're mirroring Rome, the Greeks, Spain and other civilizations that became fat and happy, then crashed. George Santayana's said,"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." would be applicable here, if we were even taught the past! I'd be curious to know how many are versed in the decline of the Empires mentioned above!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

We Weren't Born Last Night!

Okay, this one sticks in my craw, maybe because I used to own a gas station, but I'm sure it's just because we are being flat out lied to. President Obama went on the attack focusing on the obscene profits collected by Big Oil in America. He insists they don't pay their share of the tax burden, and hints that they are taking advantage of the American people. Just like most everything else that is filtered through Washington, this is a lie.

Big Oil collects on average about twelve cents per gallon profit on the finished product. While they do make billions of dollars, that's because we as Americans consume massive amounts of gasoline. Here's the kicker, the federal government collects 18.4 cent on each and every gallon sold. So whose the profiteer? Now add in your state and local taxes and the government mooches on average 45.9 cents of every gallon purchased at the pumps. Talk about being misled!

I also took exception at a statement made in Florida yesterday promoting the production of Bio-fuels. The speaker was excited because we can find everything from manure to plant matter to process into consumable gasoline to run our automobiles. They insisted that the new industry would produce jobs at new refineries needed to process all this waste into fuel. Now on the outside that seems innocent enough but, there hasn't been a new fossil fuel refinery built in the United States in decades due to strict EPA guidelines making it less than cost effective. Bio-fuels will still be an environmental hazard, is the EPA lowering standards to promote the construction of these new refineries? Why is it cost efficient suddenly to build much needed refineries for Bio-fuels, when it's too costly for fossil fuels? Have we allowed a double standard?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

A Little Heaven On Earth!

Before I begin the thought of the day, a gentle reminder that there is a link over there>> to some great wisdom. Best selling authors Chris Brady and Orrin Woodward take time out of their day to share their thoughts and insight. I hope your taking advantage of the musings of successful people with 7, 8, and 9 figure incomes! I've been reading one of Orrin's post about Andrew Jackson's character and principles in the face of adversity, and realizing this is fantastic information they just don't teach in our education system! Now that I've sent you elsewhere, here is my thought of the day.....

We are but seven days away from this election cycle. A chance to recycle Washington and set our country back on track. There is a movement that has consumed our politicians on both sides of the isle, it's known as the progressive movement. It has attracted legislators from both parties that find the idea of progressing our nation further down the road to...What?

Our forefathers bequeathed us....

All men are created equal.
All men are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Freedom of speech
The right to assemble
The right to bear arms
Freedom of religion
Freedom of the press
The right to vote
The power of the governing is granted by the governed.

So how do we improve on that? What do they hope to progress to?

Utopia, or heaven on earth isn't part of the design. That's the reward for the struggles we face everyday. If we live a life of principle, and value, then an eternity of perfection is granted to us. Trying to evolve into a place where our every needs are met without effort isn't in the plan. Your challenges here on earth are rewarded by the nanny state of heaven, where all your needs are met. This is where we earn our reward. Here is where we prove ourselves worthy.

Progressive's feel that government is the path to utopia. Our founding fathers believed the nation they designed for us is the path to Heaven. Enjoy your freedom and exercise your right to vote next Tuesday. Otherwise we just might progress into a form of hell on earth.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Monday, October 25, 2010

A Monastery Memo.....

From the diary of a monk over 900 years ago.....

" When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world , so I tried to change the nation. When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn't change the town and as an older man, I tried to change my family. Now as an old man, I've realized the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have impacted our town. Their impact could have changed the nation, and I indeed would have changed the world."

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Sunday, October 24, 2010

The Draft Is Just Around The Corner!

Ben Franklin, one of the founding father's of our country, noted in his famous book, "Poor Richard's Almanac," a principle our nation has strayed from. "The way to wealth, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words, industry and frugality." Then he went on to note; "First let honesty and industry be your constant companions; and secondly spend less than you earn...then shalt thou reach a point of happiness and independence."

Franklin was using the word industry as the verb, to be industrious, or just plain hard work. But in today's world both meanings apply. We've become a lazy nation whose seen fit to consume rather than create. We've allowed the manufacturing of goods and services to be pushed offshore to other nations, becoming reliant upon others, The exact opposite of freedom! It's a principle of the free market, your goods or services are only as valuable as the consumer is willing to pay. We've allowed our labor costs to price us out of the market! Other nations are providing goods and services of equal quality at a lower cost, in a free market environment, the rules say we are destined to fail economically. We need to get to work and provide those goods and services in house at a competitive price, and equal quality.

Then there's the frugality thing. Giving ourselves a hard look, we're failing both of Franklin's test to independence, and happiness. Is it a wonder we're in economic turmoil? This has such a simple solution, live within our means. That will lower the tax burden, lowering the cost of doing business, making us competitive once again. Passing out money we don't have to indiscriminate pet projects, or unproductive people presents a burden that is the anchor around our neck preventing us from being competitive. And when your not competitive, you get better players. See you at the polls November 2nd.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Not On My Dime!

If you read this blog, you're quite aware I'm a staunch defender of the Constitution. I believe it was a document designed by Divine Providence and is the key to the success of the longest standing Republic in history.

It's not uncommon for the liberals to misinterpret the First Amendment and twist the concept of the Establishment Clause to fit their desire for there to be a separation of church and state. Truthfully it was written to protect the Church from the government, not visa versa.

With that said, the founders blew it, not on purpose though! With all their foresight they could not have imagined the scope of today's media. Which brings me to my point. I purpose another amendment;
the separation of media and state, and not one that could be interpreted in any other way. No longer should we finance or permit media to influence government.

Media should be subject to the same free market principles as every other enterprise. If the message they are sending isn't popular enough to attract and audience and advertisers, then it needs to fall by the wayside until it finds a marketing strategy that draws viewers, listeners, or readers. No more government support of media endeavors.

Just as liberal Air America bit the dust because it lacked the content to sell advertising and entice listeners, so shall National Public Radio. If it's truly a "public" forum, then let it's listeners finance it. Withdraw the government funding.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Friday, October 22, 2010

Can America Pass the IQ Test?

America is 11 days from being asked to pass an IQ test. Before you vote it would be prudent to define the results your looking for from your candidate. Are you happy with the level of government control and the lack of fiscal responsibility? Does the inefficiency of bureaucratic spending fit your vision of this nation? Are you better off right now than you were two years ago?

I judge who I take advice from by the success they've had. The fruit the tree bears is the best indicator of future crops. Many of our country's political races are pitting successful businessmen and women against career politicians whose only crop is the ability to work the system and spend your tax dollars. Efficient government is not unlike running a corporation, meet the payroll and pay the overhead.

Florida has Rick Scott a successful CEO in a multi million dollar private enterprise pitted against a career politician, guess who's camp I'm in? Connecticut has Linda McMahon the CEO of yet another successful multi million dollar business running counter to a man who's lied about his military career and imagine this, he's another career politician. DUH! Carly Fiorina ran powerhouse Hewlett Packard, Lucent Technologies, and was an executive at AT&T. Then there is her opponent Barbara Boxer, another career politician who's had some public moments that don't do her ineptness justice. Successful business woman or court jester? Then there is possibly my favorite comparison Meg Whitman former CEO of E-Bay challenging Moonbeam Jerry Brown, career politician and aging hippy. There are more but I think you get the picture.

At what point does common sense take over and guide America back on track? Why are these democrat offerings even on the radar in the polls? I'll give you that the last three mentioned are in California where they swing to a different beat, but still, come on people!

Define where you want the country to be...
Learn what the candidates bring to the table....
Do the right thing and vote for people who understand prosperity and fiscal responsibility!

Isn't it fair to say all those corporate executives operated their companies in the black and created jobs and prosperity? That's what I'm talking about!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Thursday, October 21, 2010

12 Days To The Retirement Party!

Just 12 days left till we can celebrate the retirement of the likes of Harry Reed and the rest of his free spending cohorts. Now is a great time to remind those who need to vote by absentee ballot, there is still time to order, receive, and vote. Reports have surface that early voting numbers are exceptionally high, and that's a good thing. We need to get our voices heard, this is our only opportunity to tell Washington how we feel.

While I'm on the topic of sending messages, the Republican party leaders still don't get it. I'm hearing complaints that the Tea Party candidate in Delaware isn't the right choice for gaining the seat in Congress. Here's the scoop, win or lose there is a message attached to her nomination, it's merely this simple. We are tired of Republican lite, voters will not sacrifice their principles for a seat in the government that doesn't understand conservative principles. Don't offer us a progressive candidate that might vote our purpose once in awhile. We are tired and will not accept another Olympia Snow, etc that is more a liberal Democrat than a principled conservative. If they don't represent our views they won't get our vote.

If the Republican party continues to confuse this message, there will be an uprising of a third party. Continuing to push the platform toward a center agenda will cause the defection of the conservative base. We don't care if the life long, moderate republican offering will sometimes side with conservative policies. We want to know that our ideas are represented in Congress 100% of the time.Let me remind you in the Republican hierarchy we tried the center experiment by nominating Mc Cain, it failed miserably.

I'm appalled how the GOP has picked and chosen who they'll back after their voters have spoken. They've strung out nominees and left them dangling on the vine like they did Palin in the last presidential election. All these races are winnable if the effort is made financially and with campaign support. Stop complaining the will of the people isn't to your liking It's what we want, and your job is to serve us.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The Failure Of Socialism, Again!

America has had it's socialist experiment, way back in the 1970's. Some weren't born yet, and some have just plain forgotten the gasoline rationing inspired by our government. It's a historical example of how badly a socialistic premise failed here in a free, capitalistic country.

Threatened with a shortage in supply of petroleum, the United States government decided to step in and level the playing field for it's citizens. The rationing limited supply to each gas station and to every customer. They fixed the price and disregarded supply and demand principles. Everyone who was willing to rise at 4 am and wait in endless lines, was entitled to five gallons of gasoline, unless you could prove you were a policeman, fireman, or EMT. Then your portion was raised to ten gallons. You also had to show the gas attendant your tank was below half to be eligible for the precious liquid.

The resulting fist fights, black market gas sales, and exceptions for people who "knew someone," shows how willing Americans were to accept Socialism. Can you imagine how this will effect our nation if there is a shortage in the new government controlled healthcare system? The test market for Socialism was just gasoline, not a life and death issue.

This is why Socialism has failed in every instance it was applied. People yearn to have the freedom to earn and acquire whatever they desire. Leveling the playing field lowers the standard of living for everyone, penalizing production and exceptionalism. This promotes illegal activity, black markets and smuggling, because like it or not, if there is a demand, a good capitalist will try to fill it and make a profit. It's human nature to want more for you and yours..........

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Progressive Cancer!

I just got done watching an interview broadcast on the Sunday political talk shows where Megan Mc Cain was the featured guest. I don't think I've ever heard a more absurd statement out of an American citizen as I did during this program. Miss Mc Cain choose to voice her opinion about the Delaware Senate race and Christine O'Donnell's campaign. Megan was taken back by the thought that just anyone felt they could run for office, without experience!

Last I looked, this was still the land of opportunity, where all men, and women, were created equal, and entitled to the same opportunity as the next person. This elitist attitude will be the demise of Washington. Career politicians should be put on the endangered species list, and term limits enacted.

Now let's examine the fruit on the tree of the purveyor of this message. Miss Mc Cain is a self proclaimed progressive hiding behind the Republican banner. Her influence on her father's campaign has produced a negative result as this country is right leaning. She professes to speak for the younger generation, but as the results of her father's campaign, I think we can all agree she is insignificant as far as politics are concerned. To verify this I asked several young adults under the age of 27 about Ms. Mc Cain and after a blank stare, I was asked....Who? So I'll remind her that if your out in front leading, and no one is following, nor listening to you, your simply on a long lonely walk.

The progressive message in the conservative movement is like a gnat on the back side of an elephant. We were distracted by it in the last election, but that's so yesterday! The lesson was learned. We need smaller government, to follow the principles outlined by our forefathers, and a strict adherence to the Constitution. Otherwise we get to live the predictable results of today.

Thanks for sharing your opinion Megan, but we'll pass. In a free country anyone is capable of achieving anything, and I'll encourage everyone to pursue the American dream, not the progressive put down.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Monday, October 18, 2010

Tips From The Top!

It always pays off to take advice from those who have the "fruit on the tree." I ran across these tips from billionaire Warren Buffett, and I thought I'd share......


1. Reinvest your profits – this is the only way to take advantage of compound growth, which is money growing on money.

2. Be willing to be different – you follow the herd, you’re gonna get hurt. Going against the herd may be scary, but can pay off if done properly.

3. Never suck your thumb – If you find something good, act. Don’t sit around doing nothing.

4. Spell out the deal before you start – Get all the details in writing before you follow through.

5. Watch small expenses – The article mentions a guy who counted 500-sheet rolls of toilet paper to make sure he wasn’t being ripped off. That seems a bit extreme to me but I see the point of not wasting money.

6. Limit what you borrow – I believe that the only acceptable forms of debt are student loans, car loans (reasonable car loans), mortgages, and possible 0% deals that may pop up every once in a while. Now, don’t mistake that sentence to mean that I think it’s okay to have debt—that’s not what I’m saying. The main thing is to use debt as a tool and use it wisely.

7. Be persistent – Always remember the saying: “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”

8. Know when to quit – You have to know when to say, “when.”

9. Assess the risks – Do some worst-case-scenario analysis before you proceed. In other words, count the costs before you begin.

10. Know what success really means – I love the fact that Buffett is not on an ego trip with his giving. According to the article, Buffett does not want any buildings named after him. That’s soooooo cool! I really respect that about him.

#8 is my biggest downfall, I'm not big on quitting. I prefer to reassess the situation and adjust. So if I'm only 9/10th's as successful as Mr. Buffett, the cat's out of the bag!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Washington, The Game Of Monopoly!

The problem with our economic woes is that Washington thinks that only people with economic doctorates can both solve and understand it's complexities. These "brain trusts" in our capitol have created more government than jobs, and are directly responsible for the current problems in our real estate market. Though backdoor government manipulation, the politicians have single handedly not only created this mess, but are taking our property, and have plans to continue. Let me explain....

Joe American blue collar worker decides the time is right to purchase his own home. The prices are right and the bank is not only offering terms he can deal with, but is lending money he can qualify for. Joe buys a modest home for $80,000.00. Joe is comfortable, and can afford the payments, life is good.

In steps the government, they decide not enough people own homes, and that home ownership is a "right" everyone should enjoy. Side note for our liberal friends here.....Home ownership is not a right, rights are endowed by our creator, not granted by government. Any right man grants can also be taken away by that same man. Home ownership is earned by responsible, hardworking people.... So the government pressures the banks to lower lending standards so more people can qualify for homes. They use their influence at Fanny Mae and Freddie Mac to recreate a thriving market, driving the market down. Everyone sees an opportunity to make money and the market id flooded with homes, as home prices are inflating, and mortgage rates are falling. Once again all caused by bi-partisan government interference in a stable and thriving market.

As a result Joe's $80,000.00 abode is now valued at $240,000.00. His property taxes have now risen from $800.00 per year to $2400.00 per year, creating an economic strain on Joe's budget. Mind you this artificial boon is still government sponsored. That's not the least of it.... Since Joe's property has risen in value three hundred percent, his homeowners insurance premium has tripled as well. Taking his affordable homeowners insurance from say $700.00 per year to $2100.00 per year. Joe's liability of overhead has now increased $3000.00 per year or an additional $250.00 per month.

Joe's fixed income has no room for the additional expense. He tries to refinance his loan, but alas the temporary inflated market created by the government interference has collapsed because there is a rush of foreclosures from people with the very same situation, creating a flood of inventory on the real estate market, driving prices back down below the price Joe purchased his home at. Joe has no choice but to go into foreclosure and back into the rental market. Repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat...ditto, ditto, ditto...you get the picture.

Now who owns 90% of the mortgages in our country? Government controlled Freddy Mac and Fannie Mae... Has Washington infringed upon our right to property? So it seems. I'm afraid I'm not quite done yet...Remember that "brain trust" I mentioned in the beginning of this debacle? Well in their wisdom they've decided to print money to stimulate the disaster they created. Since the more money you print results in the money citizens have capable of buying less, there is more trouble to come.

Government is going to print money to serve itself. As the initial holder of the newly printed money, it still has the same purchasing power as the money already in circulation. In other words it benefits them, and leaves Joe American as the loser. If the dollar you possess will buy a dollar's worth of goods today, then the Fed. prints twice as much money, the government gets a dollar worth of purchasing power when first spent by them. When you go to spend it, it'll only buy fifty cents worth of goods, because they've doubled the money in circulation. It'll take twice as much of the new dollar, to buy what the old one used to. This scenario is just down the road.....

Remember the game Monopoly? Wasn't it common they player who ran the bank, usually won the game? I'm just saying.........

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Friday, October 15, 2010

Anger Management!

As I wander down the path of life, it's become apparent to me that every situation I am confronted with has the potential to be a learning experience. Some of them don't even involve me, I'm just a spectator to the lesson, that I can't help but believe was contrived for my benefit. Becoming astute and aware to my surroundings has benefited my personal growth.

One of the hardest lesson to understand was dealing with anger. Almost daily I'm blessed with examples of how not to handle a situation. I've learned the first rule of anger management is that others don't make you angry, that's your choice. If you opt to become angry because of someone else's actions, you've just granted them control over your emotional maturity. Let me say that another way, you've lost your freedom to choose how you react.

Anger is self serving. While it can be a motivator, it's not with the clearest head that we act when angered. Usually it does nothing to resolve the situation, and generally it will exacerbate it. So when you've lost your emotional maturity, does it serve you in resolving the situation? Rational people will answer no. So why would you grant someone that level of control over you? You've become a puppet on their string. I never wish to gift someone that level of control over me.

Anger often festers into a grudge. Like an infection it grows and consumes it's host. The simple analogy is holding a grudge is akin to drinking poison and hoping the other person dies. The outcome isn't likely to favor your objective. So it doesn't serve us to harbor ill will toward others.

Forgiveness is the key! How many references in the handbook of life, the Bible, are there to forgiving one another? When you practice the art of forgiveness, you're the one in control! You've taken command of the situation instead of relinquishing it to those who choose to act outside of your boundaries. Isn't that the position you'd like to apply for?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Be All You Can Be!

Yesterday I was pondering the statement, " The greatest power for those down on their luck, lies within themselves." Isn't it interesting we who reside in the United States of America celebrate exceptionalism at all levels? Take for instance the way we empower our wounded veterans. I challenge you to find another country who works as hard as we do to give them every opportunity to excel and lead a fruitful life. What other country builds specialized housing so those heroes who suffer amputations can be independent? How about the prosthetic devices invented and implemented so those brave men and women can function at any level of achievement they choose?

And it's not just the military we help rise up. Americans are constantly using innovation to maximize the quality of life for those who've been dealt a bad hand. We are constantly seeking new ways for everyone to overcome whatever limitations they face. Research in hearing impairment, vision advances, and speech enhancement are always driving on the cutting edge, looking for new ways for Americans to be all they can be. What other country strives so hard for those who might have something to contribute, yet through fate have found themselves limited? It's truly the land of opportunity!

While other nations condemn their challenged citizens to a less than desirable existence, we provide the tools necessary to overcome whatever obstacle life has thrown their way. It leaves them with a sense of independence and self worth. So with all that positive empowerment we encourage from those that fate wasn't so kind to, would someone please explain the concept of welfare, food stamps, and 99 weeks of unemployment compensation?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Somethings Never Change!

I'm currently reading up on President Martin Van Buren, someone who in the teaching of history I received, wasn't viewed as a standout. Yet Van Buren's tenure was responsible for the onset of most of the political behavior we endure today. I guess if you ignore history it quietly goes away.....

The father of the modern day Democrat party was without a doubt, Van Buren. The uprising of the party was based upon dissent against the "privileged" class, and the radical democratization of the political process. So in English, he promoted class warfare, and the destruction of the Republic our forefathers designed. He learned to employ the persuasion of the media,(newspapers) like no other candidate had, to sway the opinions of the voters. Sound familiar?

The State's requirement for voters to be landowners was diminished during that era. Funny side note, while the restriction of allowing just property owners to vote, turn out was never less than 70%, and often reflected 90%. One might conclude they had more interest in how they were governed....

Van Buren vision for maintaining national unity evolved from the notion that money corrupts, ironically it was the same corruption he abhorred that he harnessed to grow the size of the Federal government, distributing jobs in the Post Office and other Federal departments as rewards for supporters. He used this to buy off the votes with the noble purpose of saving the nation from civil war over the slavery issue. Basically he kicked the can down the road for Lincoln to deal with.

In almost 200 years the democrats haven't changed tactics nor motivation. You'd think we'd have learned by now. But then none of this was taught to you in the liberal run learning institution you attended, was it?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Put It In The Hands Of The Communities!

Interestingly enough, Florida has a proposal to eliminate the amendment to restrict class sizes coming up on the November ballot. Administrators, realizing that it's unlikely the amendment will be defeated are scrambling to fill in the shortfalls for the financial penalties imposed if they don't comply. It seems they'll be denied state funding.

So effectively the state is redistributing the wealth of the people by transferring money from taxes collected in high income communities, to those with a lower tax base and higher demand. Which begs the question in my mind, why aren't the individual communities responsible for their own educational funding? Why must the state or the federal government have their say in our children's education?

Perhaps if we limited government involvement, those monuments the erect as learning institutions would be a little more modest. The money would be invested in learning tools rather than amenities like swimming pools. Problems, budgets, and decisions concerning anything are always best solved at the level closest to the need.

It's a simple matter of lowering the money collected and overseen by the state, and increasing the local tax requirements. Then the communities have the means and the say in how their children are educated.

Want to stop this foolishness tomorrow? Enlighten a Florida State Seminole that his hard earned tax money is being used to fund someone at the University of Florida to participate in anything, or visa versa. I insure you it'll cause an uproar heard round the world!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Monday, October 11, 2010

Here's My Take!

NY Republican Gov. Candidate Makes Anti-Gay Remarks

Interesting headlines! Makes you want to read more! What it is, is an example of bad journalism, with a selective part of a speech taken out of context to influence an election. Here is the quote they took exception to....

"I just think my children and your children would be much better off and much more successful getting married and raising a family, and I don't want them brainwashed into thinking that homosexuality is an equally valid and successful option -- it isn't," -Carl Paladino

What he said in front of that is the kicker. He basically asked that the content of his next remarks not be taken out of context. That he lives in a , "live and let live," kind of world. Personally, that's the part I found offensive.

If you have an opinion, and choose to state it, back it up. Know what you believe and why. Paladino is a Catholic, the Bible is clear that homosexual behavior is a sin. His faith forbids same sex marriage, case closed. If your going to take your lumps, tell them why!

The reporter goes on to say that his speech contained this passage that Paladino must have decided against saying. "There is nothing to be proud of in being a dysfunctional homosexual." It's my guess he found that portion in bad taste, but yet somehow he's being held accountable for something he chose not to say. That is in fact, if this reporter is clairvoyant or had access to the written form of his remarks.

Homophobia? Hardly, it's his faith. Why is it we can accept Muslim radical doctrine without question, but a Christian view is offensive? An honor killing, or a stoning Americans can live with, and here they look down their noses at a part of the Christian doctrine that renounces other socially questionable behavior. If your going to accept religious doctrine tolerance, doesn't it apply to each equally?

Here's the skinny, we're being dooped! In a country where it's politically incorrect to be religious, we are being told to accept the religion of Atheism. That the only acceptable belief is the is no Deity. If Atheism is to be accepted as a true belief, doesn't that make it a religion? Shouldn't the separation of church and state fallacy apply to that as well? Ergo, it is not appropriate to practice Atheism in the town square.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Saturday, October 9, 2010

3,2,1....Blast-Off!

One of America's greatest accomplishments has been the Apollo Space project. Designed as the answer to President Kennedy's challenge to our country's ingenuity, to walk a man on the moon by the end of the decade, it has been one giant leap for mankind. Would it surprise you to learn that during it's journey of 250,000 miles, this miracle of modern engineering is on course less than 3 % of the time? Even with all our technology for every hour it's in flight, it's only on course for two minutes! Yet despite it wandering off course 97% of the time, it still manages to get where it's going, and back, accomplishing it's goal.

I don't know about you but this analogy gives me hope. Lord knows we all have our wandering in the desert moments, off track and seeking to find our path in life. Yawing through our daily activities on autopilot without purpose, or a meaningful goal. But we are all here for a reason, we are part of an intelligent design. So to avoid our purpose from being fertilizer for a greater cause, perhaps we should seek our mission here on Earth.

That's not to say it going to be obvious, there will be missteps and course correction involved. The key is self awareness. Your guidance system can put you back on the right course faster than any outside influence. But in order to have course correction, your capsule has to lift off the launching pad. You can't steer a parked spaceship. I'll leave you with this bit of wisdom I've found helpful in my journey.......

Would you like me to give you the formula to success? It's quite simple, really. Double your rate of failure! Your thinking the enemy of success is failure. But it isn't at all....You can be discouraged by failure or you can learn from it. So go ahead and make mistakes! Make all you can! Because, remember where you find success, is just on the other side of failure.-Thomas J. Watson Sr.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Friday, October 8, 2010

Water, Water Everywhere, But Not A Drop To Drink!

Everyday most Americans go to the faucet, open the tap and out spews government provided city water. It's been treated and filtered by a government facility with fluorides, chlorine and Lord knows what, to make it acceptable to government controlled guidelines. After all that government intervention and over site, how many of those customers would actually find the delivered product, that they pay handsomely for, acceptable to drink?

An overwhelming majority turn to entrepreneurs to provide them additional filtration and or bottled substitute to replace the less than desirable, government approved, final product.Once again proving the government cannot provide the simplest service better than the private sector.

Now with that in mind, who's overseeing the education of your children? Are you comfortable with government over site of your health care? Were you trusting in the government run programs to provide you with an acceptable lifestyle after your retirement? Has government intervention improved the banking crisis? Was it wise to use the government to rebuild the American automobile manufacturing industry? Oh I could go on forever.........

Just something to ponder next time you open that bottle of water.......

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Monkey See, Monkey Do! (Revisited)

The liberal view of our system of Capitalism is one of disdain. The left is convinced the greed and corruption of the free market system needs to be kept in check with strict government regulation, if not totally abolished for a socialist, redistribute the wealth government run system.

Here's where I find the hypocrisy. First, those high powered CEO's were educated in business and business ethics in our higher learning institutions. You don't get to that level of corporate America without a degree from a University. Now a survey has revealed that those Universities are staffed by professors who are over 90% liberal when polled. So that brings the question to mind....Who taught them what they know? Where did those business principles they so abhor, come from? Is business ethics taught by the less than 10% of the instruction staff?

Those on the left use Saul Alinsky's "Rules For Radicals," as a consulting handbook, where they are taught the Machiavellian Principle, "The ends justify the means." Yet they continually question the principles of the free market. Can you only use whatever means to get what you want if it's, "your cause?" Is it only acceptable to use unethical or morally bankrupt practices if your promoting "Universal Healthcare," or the "Global Warming" issues?

It appears the pot is calling the kettle black. From where I sit, it's never acceptable to compromise principles, ethics, or morals. You taught what you hate about Capitalism, if not in class, by your actions.

What you do speaks so loudly, what you say I cannot hear.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

"Do It," With Thy Might!

"Whatsoever thy hand findth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goest."
-Ecclesiastes 9:10

Here's the Biblical description of Chris Brady's version of the dash. Chris defines life as a race, with a beginning point and an end. At the end, when they are all gathered around the potato salad, your purpose will be defined. It's how your remembered that'll matter, it's your significance on earth.

That Bible verse warns us to make the most of it. Understand that anything you gain here on earth is only useful during that dash. None of it has a purpose for you after your passed.

A life of sloth is a useless existence. Make a difference, define your purpose here on earth today, so your dash has a meaning. Has anyone ever been remembered for their ability to "play it safe?" We all end up dead anyway, take some chances, make a difference! Give them something to talk about over that potato salad!

"You have truly lost when you are laying on your death bed and you've never found something that you were willing to fight and die for." -Claude Hamilton


God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Sow Your Garden!

"No stream rises higher than it's source. Whatever a man might build could never express or reflect more than he was. He could record neither more nor less than he had learned of life when the buildings were built.... His philosophy, true of false, is there. -Frank Lloyd Wright

"Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I'll spend the first four hours sharpening the axe."-Abraham Lincoln

Wise words, preparation and knowledge are the keys to a successful outcome. How sharp is your axe? While most people will grab the dull instrument and wail away on that tree, that same contingency will abandon the task due to lack of results. They set themselves up for failure.

We have a tendency to think that once we walk out of the hallowed doors of a learning institution for the last time, our quest for knowledge is over. I love the comparison of you becoming ripe with knowledge, because we fail to realize the next step after ripe is rot. Personal growth should be a life long ambition. After all who among us wishes to rot on the vine?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Monday, October 4, 2010

The American Community Survey!

In the mail I received "The American Community Survey" this weekend. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Census Bureau it's an addendum to the Census mandated by the Constitution to be taken every ten years. So under penalty of law, as defined by Title 13, Sections 141,193,and 221, people residing in the United States are required to comply. I might be continuing this blog from a jail cell.

First of all I take exception to the invasion of my privacy this form requires. All the information they ask for is already possessed by the Federal Government, and this form is redundant. It totally corrupts the spirit of the mandate in the Constitution which is as follows.


The United States Constitution mandates that a census be taken every ten years in order to apportion the number of members of the United States House of Representatives among the several states.

My income, which the IRS already knows, doesn't have dittily to do with that mandate. Neither does the color of my skin or my ethnic background. The year my house was built has absolutely nothing to do with the number of Representatives we send to the House. What fuel I use to heat my home is also not required. My average electric bill also has nothing to do with the electorate boundary lines. When the last time I was married again, not pertinent information.

Here's a few other great questions....What kind of work do you do? Answer...Hard. What is the most important activity or duty of your job? Answer... Staying afloat. These are questions all designed not to draw district lines but for this.....

Census statistics are also used in order to apportion federal funding for many social and economic programs.

WRONG!

Now the cats out of the bag, they want to know how to expand big government! This isn't designed to draw district voting lines, it's designed to waste our tax dollars. It's not what the Constitution designed the Census for, and the Census has already been taken. The Government's job isn't to solve our problems. It's to protect our borders, raise an Army, and print money. The rest is pretty much the responsibility of the State in which you live.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Separation of Church and State!

I'm absolutely disgusted with the new trend in American politics. Democrats and progressives alike have taken to vilifying the wealthy. Their attempt to shift the tax burden to a financial class of citizens, and leverage those less fortunate against them is akin to the bully on the playground. The principles we founded this great nation upon are directly under attack. If all men are created equal, and entitled to equal treatment under the law, how do you justify different tax rates for different wealth classes of citizens?

A progressive tax rate penalizes the successful. Just by the math alone, if you taxed everyone 10% the "rich" would pay their fair share. A couple making $250,000.00 per year would be responsible for donating $25,000.00 toward our countries operating expenses, while someone making $50,000.00 per year would pay $5000.00 in taxes. Where in the name of all that's good and just is it fair to demand the rich pay a higher percentage of their income?

Back to the bully on the playground analogy, the less fortunate feel relieved that the bully chooses to pick on the "rich." But what if the bully decides it needs more, as bullies often do, and changes it's focus to you? Since we allowed the bully to assault the rich, didn't we set a precedent that allows this behavior to also flow in your direction? Left unchecked the bully has supreme power to pick on who it chooses at will. So by defending the "rich" are we not also defending ourselves?

Here's why I make this point. The expiration of the Bush Tax Cuts, and the left's suggestion we shift the burden to just those who make over $250,000.00 per year also contains a provision that will affect our not so rich retirees. Dividend checks, which a great deal of retirees rely upon for income, will have a tax rate increase from 15% to up to 35%. The capitol gains tax will increase from 15% to 25%, also affecting those seniors who invest in the stock market. Now, who's really the victim?

Hilary Clinton just donated $50 million of those tax dollars to third world countries so they can purchase clean energy appliances. Now I'm no economist, but wouldn't that be better spent lowering our deficient? This is just one example of thousands of the waste in Washington. We need to cut spending, balance the budget, remove the waste, make the tax burden equal for everyone. Perhaps those looking for government assistance wouldn't be so quick to the hand out line, if it was their taxes being increased to pay for it.

Now the Bible tells us to whom much is given, much is demanded. I travel in the company of many of the well to do and I'll tell you this...They do more than their fair share for charity. Yet even if they choose to be selfish, isn't that judgement to be made by their maker ,and not the federal government? That's my definition of separation of church and state!

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Saturday, October 2, 2010

They're Watching You!

"Everyone is called to leadership."-Orrin Woodward

Now some might disagree with that, so let's define leadership. Leadership is influence. Good leadership is a positive influence. Ergo, if your a grandmother bouncing her pride and joy on her knee, or a political powerhouse, your all influencing people!

You may have the quietest affect on someone, young or old, and not even realize it. I remember Jan Newton's story of her granddaughter playing office and mimicking her every move. Even a child under five is influenced by the daily activities that surround them. Who among us hasn't had the moment when they realize they've just repeated something their mother or father did religiously? "Oh my gosh, I've become my mother!" - (or father, grandmother, grandfather), Sound familiar?

That realization alone has caused me to be more purposeful in my behavior. If someone is going to ape my actions, I'd like it to be a positive memory! Even at the smallest level, leadership is a constant in our lives. It might be a better world if everyone would understand that responsibility, study it, and respect the implications their influence has. Would it be a wonderful world if the power of leadership was respected for the power it holds?

God Bless!
Capt. Bill

Friday, October 1, 2010

A Parent's Legacy!

You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be-i had a mother who read to me! -Strickland Gillian

One of the best ways that parents can strengthen family ties and simultaneously teach sound moral principles is to read to, and with their children. -Helen R. LeGette

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.-Dorothy Law Nolte

Strong families emphasis that good communication doesn't necessarily happen; it usually takes time and practice.-Nick Stinnett and John DeFrain

Manners will become important to children only if they are important to their parents.-Thomas Lickona

Just as children do not inherit good character, they do not inherit good manners. They must be taught.- Helen R. LeGette

Every word that parents and children speak, every action that parents and their children take, and every deed that parents and their children perform help to create the children's "memory bank." That record, that "memory bank" becomes the parents' history and posterity. For the children, it is their inheritance and their destiny.- Rabbi Wayne Dosick

All very powerful words, no? I don't know about you but they caused me to reflect on what legacy I've left behind. I'm thinking this wisdom will make a great Christmas present to my boys and their future spouses, when the time is appropriate.

God Bless!
Capt. Bill