Tuesday, June 28, 2011

As long as it doesn't hurt...



No Pain
(by R.P.Edwards)

Casey Anthony
Got a pass
All because of Pain
The curious, furious
Wondered why
We’ll let the judge
Explain
He said
“Current jurisprudence
For in utero demise
Says “pain” is the criteria
Therefore
Precedence applies”


Yes, I can see it now.  New laws on the books.  The sentencing of those who slaughter, mitigated by the “Pain factor.” 

“But your honor,” says the defending barrister, “he waited until they were asleep before blowing their heads off.”

I was doing my usual flitting about the web when I happened upon the debate about when a “fetus” can feel pain.  Twenty-six weeks? Twenty-four? Twenty?  The reason being, that it might not be nice to kill the “thing” if it felt uncomfortable while it’s little arms and legs were being ripped off.

So, I was thinkin‘, since “it hurts!” is now a factor, then, if Miss Anthony is indeed guilty of killing her daughter Caylee (surely you’ve been watching the proceedings?!) using chloroform, that means, by golly, that it was painless!  So, it’s kind of a nice murder.  Therefore, the sentence should reflect her humanity (all this “alleged,” of course).

Let’s review.  Killing the baby in the womb is alright…as long as it doesn’t feel any pain.  But, the real question is, dear reader, what of the pain in the Creator’s heart as we slaughter “his” children?  Are we concerned with that?  Apparently not.


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Saturday, June 25, 2011

Move the statue




New York et. al.
(by R.P.Edwards)

I fear for my country
The home of the brave
We bow to our beast
Becoming…it’s slave
Contempt for the fathers
Disdain for their tools
While we eat of “their” harvest
And whisper
“What fools”


And so, with much celebration, New York has gone the way of the “other” enlightened states (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont and New Hampshire) in allowing same-sex marriage.  Once again, the God of their Constitution, the God of our fathers, the God of the “endowed by their Creator“…got it wrong.  Just for fun, here’s part of the meaningless preamble to the Empire State’s premier document:

The People of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our Freedom, in order to secure its blessings, DO ESTABLISH THIS CONSTITUTION

You know, I understand how some will cover and confuse the issue with the abstract absolute of L..O..V..E, (ignoring, of course, that in fairness the definition of marriage must now be expanded ad infinitum), but we’re talking society here.  The nurturing of children.  The bedrock of the family unit.  And, when those who have been so exquisitely schooled at the sewers of higher education; when these wrestle from God that which is only His to decree, then, choosing this path; to knowingly, arrogantly step outside of His sphere of blessing, they, by their actions; well...they then invite His “unblessing”.

Yes, yes, I know this is very “religious” and not at all in the comfort zone of “conservatism,” but, if the foundation of our Republic becomes corrupt; then who cares if we balance the budget, or control our borders, or repeal Obamacare?  And, although we pedestalize (a word I just invented) those who make money, or tickle us with their “talent,“ the truth is…a prosperous whoremonger is  worthy only of contempt.

One final extremist thought (that’s funny isn’t it.  I’m an “extremist” because I believe in traditional marriage), since the political world is increasingly complex these days, we, whoever “we” are, must, we MUST become aware of the value of our vote.  As mentioned in a previous post, thanks to Illinois voters putting in Governor Quinn, we are now sliding ever closer to Gomorrah.  However, I’m sure, before the election, many groups endorsed the man because of his “friendly” attitude towards Unions, or some other special interest (remember, a pro-union union guy is writing this!).  But, with his “carrot,” came the chain. And although I hope we prosper under his reign, I’ll truly be amazed if we do.

Another final thought (we’ll call it an amendment).  Over the last sixty five years (thanks in great part to the Supreme Court) we’ve been told over and over that the “God thing” is a garnish, an inconsequential, a “not to be taken seriously” archaic belief.  That “God” really had nothing to do with the birth, beginnings, or greatness of this Republic.  Well, all their careful planting is finally coming to harvest. Let’s just see if the fruit of their labors…is what they expected. 

Hopefully my next post will be light and fluffy.


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Wednesday, June 22, 2011

No Pledgin' Mitt



 The Pledge
(by R.P.Edwards)

If you’re wrong
On what’s wrong
Your "right"
Is askew
Not seeing the depths
We question
Your view
For foundations are built
On deep solid stone
To reach to the sky

The depths
You must own


As I prepare for the “job” thing--this time cracking the dawn--I ponder the “pledge” and why Mitt won’t sign it.  I speak, of course, of the declaration put together by the Susan B. Anthony List--a PAC dedicated to babies not dying in the womb.  Susan B. Anthony, by the way--aside from the dollar coin that didn’t make it--was a 19th century suffragette who once referred to abortion as, “child murder.”

Anyway, this organization, trying to plumb the depths of GOP presidential candidates, offered them a pledge that supports the “right to life” as a potential resume booster.  Five signed.  Three declined.  Here's a link to the Susan B. site where you can see the pledge and pledgers:  The Pledge signers


Now, concerning Gov Romney, I’m still not clear on the reason for his “nay,” but it takes him down a peg in my “I want this guy” view.  Why?  Because of all the issues out there; the budget, the border, education, defense, etc, this one…is a definer.  You see, to simple me--and I know this will chafe many a collar bone
(sorry. no, not really)-- if you don’t “get it” that--to use Susan B’s phrase-- that “child murder” is wrong, well, your understanding of our “under Godness” is misplaced…or missing.

You see, like Slavery, abortion is a monstrous evil.  A horrid practice that acts as a cancer to our Republic.  A grievous sin that demands heaven’s attention.  And, to push it aside (not that it should “be” the platform, but certainly a plank!) because of political expediency, well, that causes me to question your foundations.

However--as I prepare to exit the building--fear not.  I most certainly would vote for Mitt Romney (and just about anyone else selected) over President Obama.  Why?  Because our current chief executive has made it abundantly clear, time and time again, that to him, the baby in the womb…is but...chattel.

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Saturday, June 18, 2011

Nero Redux

An epiphany of sorts.  That last post.  The one with the link to “The Magnificent Seven” theme.  Well…understanding that reality shows like “Survivor” would be incredibly boring without the background music, I, in an attempt to make my drivel more palatable, will, from time to time, suggest a YouTube link for “mood enhancement.”  Perhaps the more astute commentators don’t need this crutch but….    Oh, yes, this will involve you opening another “tab” (in order to return to The Layoff Letters) while the music plays.  If you don’t know how to do that…ask your kids (that’s what I do.)  Today’s music selection…What a Wonderful World…enjoy  What a Wonderful World





Nero Redux
(by R.P.Edwards)

Nero fiddled
Loud and sweet
While Rome was burning
At his feet
Oblivious to
The hot decay
“I’ll blame the Christians
Anyway”


Inspiration in the room. There I was, involved in one of my time-consuming pursuits and, from across the room the barely audible words, “I wonder where he hides his fiddle.”

“Huh?” says I.

The President,” responds my wife.  “We hear how the economy is in the tank, and he proceeds to tell us how good things are.”  Thus, Rome decaying, and the leader…playing.

Well, no need to list the “negatives.” Many “see” the stats.  Many are “in” the stats.  The question is, when, in our wonderful system that allows us every few years to…change our minds, take a different tack, throw the rascals out; when “that” time gets here…will we be swooned by the same old tune, or will we choose a different conductor? History suggests that many will be swayed by the “play.” But, hopefully, as the burning timbers from our house glance off our heads (from time to time) perhaps we will be wise enough to choose a new fire chief.  And then, with water to the blaze, we can sing…What a Wonderful World.


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Wednesday, June 15, 2011

The Magnificent Seven 2011



The Debate
(by R.P.Edwards)

Pawlenty had some pointers
Santorum had his say
Romney made a go of it
Bachmann made some hay
Gingrich pearled some wisdom
Cain spoke plain…like Paul
And ‘gainst the current president
I’d choose…“them”
One…and all

The people were oppressed, fearful, impoverished.  O, they weren’t lazy, they worked hard. Real hard.  But, just when they started to get ahead; live the “dream,”…then Big Brother would violently butt in and take “their” money, and redistribute and waste it!  Well, they needed help, so these “peasants" sought out “the seven”; seven fighters who would stand up to the bully and end his reckless reign.

I’m talking, of course, of the Republican Debate in New Hampshire the other night.  But, I suppose the promo could also be used for the classic movie, The Magnificent Seven.  Of the movie, it’s worth a look.  Came out in 1960.  Star studded (Brynner, McQueen, Wallach, Coburn, Bronson, Vaughn) with a wonderful soundtrack by Elmer Bernstein.  The music is classic “cowboy,” it was later used for Marlboro cigarette commercials (if I recall correctly) and maybe, of late…for steak.  Anyway, it’s great.  Here’s a you tube link; it will make the reading…more palatable.   Theme  (Click it, open a new tab, and come back)

Of the debate: I saw a rebroadcast (that work thing again).  And…I have hope.  Sure, I don’t agree with all these folks in all their ways.  Sure, some have baggage, quirks, questions.  But, unequivocally, I’d take any one of them over the current resident of the White House (of course, Huckabee for VP would bring balance to the ticket [c’mon Gov!])

A couple notes: The moderator, CNN guy John King, did a good job.  However, I found it amusing that he emphasized that “this” debate, unlike others, would use the “honor system.” No “bells, whistles, or flashing lights.” Just a gentle prod from the director, now and then.  However, those gentle “ahem” type cues were numerous and annoying.  Kind of reminds me of the whole “we’ll sit down and talk, and all be friends” kind of thing.  Good in theory.  But next time…bring on the bells and whistles.

Now, for the word of the day… “Fecklessness.” Provided by Rick Santorum after a New Hampshire truck driver, Greg Salts, asked why we couldn’t get rid of some of the unnecessary military bases, to help pay down the debt.  Part of the former senator’s reply is as follows:

“What we’re dealing with is a failure of leadership…He (President Obama) has turned his back on American allies and he has embraced our enemies. Our enemies no longer respect us; our friends no longer trust us; and we have a foreign policy that, unfortunately now, we’re probably going to need more of a presence because we’ve created such a vacuum, thus all of the contingency operations that you’ve seen here as the result of America’s fecklessness in dealing with the threats that confront us.” 

Hear! Hear! Mr. Rick.  And to “the seven”….ride on, ride hard, ride to restore freedom, liberty, ...America.



 Feckless

(by R.P.Edwards)

Feckless
Is reckless
Feckless’
A fool
Flailing
And floundering
Flunking
Life’s school
So add to your learning
The learning of “wise”
Or 
You’ll just be feckless
In everyone’s
eyes 

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Monday, June 13, 2011

Rethunk


 
 
I Recant!
(by R.P.Edwards)

I recant!
Oh! I have erred!
I bare my soul!
My blunder…share
Naive!
And simple!
A “bump” plus “kin!”
A trusting tot
And prone…to sin


Alright, I admit it.  My “hope” for Congressman Weiner (the last post)…was perhaps misplaced.  Perhaps I “overcompensated” a bit; not wanting my natural “naysay” to this liberal New Yorker to color my commentary.  And, in the process, perhaps on the scale of objectivity I went beyond “neutral” into the “are you kidding?” zone.  Or maybe I’m just a sucker.

Anyway, with all the “new” revelations, and the calls for his resignation (even from fellow democrats) and some outrage from his district (I bet his extracurricular activities were not part of the “platform”) well…I think Mr. Weiner needs to go.  And, though he is resistant, the Constitution offers a simple solution that could be proposed, and passed…today.  Thus:


    Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behavior, and, with the Concurrence of two-thirds, expel a Member.
    (U.S. Constitution Article 1, Section 5, Clause 2)


So, Mr. Weiner, I wish you well. But I think it best you step down and let another take your place.  And, don’t worry about income.  Reality TV and cable news has a place of prominence…for you.  And let’s not forget the Book Deal.






Thanks to google images (contributors) and, for a "blogger" that got it right...the first time, may I suggest the following:  When Private Choices Affect Public Trust

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Thursday, June 9, 2011

Wonder we

 
 
Wonder we
(by R.P.Edwards)

Wonder we
At Weiner’s plea
“A hacker
Stole
The day!”
But now we see
T’was Weiner’s we
That “he”
Sent out
To play


My right hand tingles a bit, due, I suppose, to the gasoline bath it received when I popped off the fuel filter in the Walmart parking lot where our fairly new (as in “recently purchased”) van…lost consciousness.  Oh, we’ve been having some electrical problems of late; usually resolved by jiggling this and that.  But yesterday, (and today, for that matter), no wiggle…worked.  Wife and I will be stepping out soon to meet the tow truck.  The doctor is waiting.  Oh yes, earlier, hoping for the “simple fix” I crawled under the conveyer and, while people were busy busying themselves with finding the lowest price, I slipped off the old--spewing filter--and slipped on …the new.  “Start ‘er up, son.  Darn.”

Anthony Weiner; democratic New York congressman has, like many before him, let his libido lead him into…lunacy.   The “Liberal” spokesman on many issues he, behind the scenes, was sharing his most intimate “opinion” with a select group of non-constituents.

Okay, the digital channels are rife with “Weiner woes” and, rather than piling on, I sincerely hope (yes, sincerely) that his repentance is…genuine.  That the Aqua Velva face-slap he rightly received has caused the young man…to refocus; to see clearly his responsibilities to his wife, his child, his country.

Yes, I’m a sucker for the “second chance.” A devotee of the “do-over.” And, though Mr W. is far too left for my taste; on a personal, human level…I hope he regroups and reforms.  What a shame he had to get “exposed” in order to become…composed. 

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Tuesday, June 7, 2011

D-Day, a day late

 
 
The Full Measure
(by R.P.Edwards)

Last full measure
Nothing more
Fighting, dying
On the shore
Thousands pushing
‘gainst the spear
Long ago
So far…from here
And as we busy
In our ways
Complaining of our dreary days
Remember those
Who bought our bore
With their last full measure
On…the shore


I missed it.  Didn’t even cross my mind.  True, I had an extra eight added to my workday (self inflicted) but you’d think I would have paused a moment…to remember.

D-Day.  The beaches of Normandy.  1944.  The beginning of the end for Nazi occupied Europe.  A part of the enormous effort known as World War II.  When America rose to prominence and power.  A time when school days began with prayer.  When marriage was to be honored.  And babies…were to be loved.  And a time when a text…was the body…of a book.

So far are we from those days.  So different are we from the values…of they.  Yet, while we are quick to claim their accomplishments, we, so often, by our actions…dishonor them.  We elect their opposites.  We subscribe to their opposites.  And we send our children to be educated by…their opposites.  And, even as I pen these words (thinking perhaps a softening is in order) I pause a moment to think of the abortion clinic down the street; the recent decrees of the government of my state, and the constant spewing of the know-better media.  And I conclude; perhaps “forgetting” is the proper course.  At least it points in the direction of…honesty.

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Friday, June 3, 2011

A tale of two states


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Determiner
(by R.P.Edwards)

Desires
We all got ‘em
Some are good
And others
Not
Some need hard restrainin’
While others
Free to trot
So who determines doing?
The right, the wrong, to be?
The wise say
“The Creator”
The rest say
Only…me




We, the People of the State of Illinois - grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He has permitted us to enjoy and seeking His blessing upon our endeavors…do ordain and establish this Constitution for the State of Illinois
____

TO THE END, that justice be established, public order maintained, and liberty perpetuated; WE, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to ALMIGHTY GOD for the free exercise of the right to choose our own form of government, do ordain this Constitution

Two states.  Two constitutions.  Two acknowledgments of a higher ruler; a higher government and governor.  Two states talking the talk.  But only one…walking the walk.

This week, Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, made “Civil Unions”--the pairing of same-sex couples--for all practical purposes equivalent with traditional marriage.  Thus:


Section 5. Purposes; rules of construction. This Act shall be liberally construed and applied to promote its underlying purposes, which are to provide adequate procedures for the certification and registration of a civil union and provide persons entering into a civil union with the obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits afforded or recognized by the law of Illinois to spouses

And so, in Illinois the goal is obvious: to make Homosexual marriage equivalent to Traditional Marriage.  And, by extension, to teach our posterity the “rightness” of this decision. Now, understand, I’m not a “gay-hater,” nor do I busy myself with concern over the bedroom antics of my co-workers or fellow citizens.  But, when those over us go out of their way to “create” morality in “their” image; when these so quickly abandon the foundational beliefs and traditions that ascribe blessing to  “Almighty God;” when these make it a matter of public policy to do the opposite of the divine will then I wonder, dear reader, if it‘s possible for God to justly extend “His blessing upon our endeavors.”

Now, let’s look to Indiana. 

HB 1210 says (in part)


(b) An agency of the state may not:
(1) enter into a contract with; or
(2) make a grant to;
any entity that performs abortions or maintains or operates a facility where abortions are performed that involves the expenditure of state funds or federal funds administered by the state.

In other words.  The Hoosiers, holding to traditional values, have acted to forbid federal funding, allotted to the state, to be given to Planned Parenthood which lists, among it’s services, the destruction of human life (aka abortion). The Obama administration, unsurprisingly, has subsequently threatened the state with “penalties” if the will of the people is not reversed.

And so, we have two states.  Both talk of God.  But both act very differently.  And, since there is such a great distinction; such a disparity as to the divine will; this would be an excellent time for “the Supreme Judge of the world”--by His blessing, or lack thereof--to make His wishes known.


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