Edelweiss and me

Little Songs

(by R.P.Edwards)

Funny how a little song

can weave through castle walls

and find and pierce

the hardest heart

until the castle...falls

Probably at least thirty years, perhaps more since I sang Edelweiss with the autoharp accompaniment. 

The sweet Rodgers and Hammerstein's ballad from "The Sound of Music" (the last joint effort from this talented duo) has been an aid, from time to time, for the calming of infants past and has resurfaced this decade as a lullaby for the first grandchild. And, even now, as he approaches two years of age, it has a way of soothing and quieting the little motor that makes tiny boys run, and jump, and cry, and resist the pillow's call.

Anyway, it's usually sung with the tyke in my arms, but I thought a simple rendition with the autoharp would be nice for the internet. Depending how long the thing stays intact (meaning cyberspace) it may be a source of pleasant memories...for years to come.

Thanks again to Oscar and Dick and especially to the author of all things good.

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What Constitution?

                                          

Judge Callie Granade                   vs                           Justice Roy Moore

Judged

(by R.P.Edwards)

What do we do 

when judges rule

and the people

have no say?

What do we do

when they make the law

and our vote

is thrown away?

What do we do

when they reign as kings

and the covenant ignore?

Well that "when" is now

So let's kowtow 

Yes, lean and kiss the floor

I'm disturbed on two levels. One; as a Christian I find myself taken aback--doing one of those "I almost can't believe it" gasps--at the utter defiance and contempt shown for the author of our liberty by so many (even some Christ proclaimers) by the elevation of homosexual coupling to the level of God-ordained marriage between a man and a woman. How foolish to tempt the one who holds your breath; and yet we as a nation shake our collective fists in His face and say, "I dare you!"

But, on another level, and perhaps one that has more universal appeal, I am appalled at the "overreach" of a federal judiciary that not only renders their "opinions" but, these musings are then given the weight of law. 

Case in point: Recently a lower federal judge ruled that the Alabama Constitution's ban of same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. Chief Justice of that state, Roy Moore, on Fox News Sunday, responded in part: "This is about an extension of power beyond Federal authority...we've got to understand that what a judge says is not law...there is no law right now that overcomes the Alabama Constitution." Later, responding to some words on the subject by President Obama, he said, "...but what this Harvard Professor, who is President of the United States, does not understand; a trial court's decision on the constitutionality of a federal question is just that, an opinion...it is not overturning the Alabama Constitution." And finally, near the end of the interview: "This power over marriage--which came from God under our organic law--is not to be redefined by the United States Supreme Court or any other federal court."

And so, while many are giddy over their perceived achievement of "equality" through the courts and, as many like Judge Moore are pushed aside; categorized as backwards or worse, bigots, the nation continues to suffer from the will of the few who wield power to which they have no right. 

Call me a dreamer, but I am hopeful that there will eventually be a universal uprising (in a constitutional way) to put a leash on the black-robed abusers and, as far as "mocking" God...I reckon He'll let His will be known on the matter sooner or later.

I was contemplating including a youtube link to the interview, but, as is often the case, some of the comments were vile. A reflection of what we have become, I suppose...

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The Supreme Court Song

Darwin, Lincoln, Blumenthal, Himes

Darwin and Lincoln

(By R.P.Edwards)

Darwin and Lincoln

Born the same day

One brought us death

One freed the slave

S.Res.66 - A resolution expressing support for the designation of February 12, 2015, as "Darwin Day" and recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of humanity.

Um, Senator Blumenthal and Rep. Himes, Sirs; we ALREADY have an important remembrance on February 12. It's referred to as LINCOLN'S BIRTHDAY!!!!

Now, perhaps the good legislators have forgotten the birth memorial of our 16th president. After all, we've lumped "all" the presidents into a February weekend add-on. That means individual acknowledgements, no matter how warranted and deserved...are unnecessary. Washington? Too bad. Lincoln? Tough luck.

As to the resolution and the "recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of humanity;" I don't have a problem with the premise, however, when we speak of "science" that benefits, that's the empirical kind. You know, the "scientific method" kind; hypothesize, test, observe, retest, observe, etc. Well, "that" kind of science has nothing to do with the "guesswork" of evolutionary thought; which, naturally, has been evolving (pun intended) as one supposition after another falls by the wayside.

But, rather than spending time trying to counter the true believers of the Darwinian faith, let's just add some casual observations. Slaves: thought to be inferior by some. Even sub-human. Did Darwinism bolster this view, or weaken it? Another: Those who tried to refine the "master race" and eliminate others deemed inferior (to the tune of multiplied millions); did Darwinism aid, or dissuade, such a vile idea? Another: since the collective "we" are the result of blind, impersonal forces, has Darwinian thought, yea or nay, contributed to the cheapening of human life (merely an animal after all) and made it acceptable to end this "non-person's" existence while still in the womb (again, to the tune of multiplied millions)?

Yes, rather than celebrate the man, let us rather mourn the multitudes murdered in his name.

And, if one still wishes to set aside a time of honoring, I have a suggestion; since we no longer choose to observe the actual birthdays of people of notoriety, why not celebrate Mr Darwin's birthday along with National Atheist Day...April 1st?

For further reading: Ken Ham's view

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Existentially speaking

"Pharoah, sir, is this what you'd call an Existential threat?"

Existential

(by R.P.Edwards)

"Existential"

It's all the rage!

On many lips

On ever page

It's linked with "threat"
And means the worst
But the "greater" threat
Is when...we're cursed 

"Existential threat;" a phrase heard much of late. The context is usually in regards to terrorism and how its perpetrators either are, or are not an existential threat to the United States.

Well, I must admit, this pairing was a "head scratcher" for me. However, after a little research I think I have the gist, namely: a "people" being destroyed; as in, ceasing to exist; as in...a whole lot of dead "us."

So, I guess, since the "evil" folk of the Islamic persuasion don't yet have the ability to slaughter us good, their potential badness, on the dead scale, is only in the number category of, say, highway deaths (35,000)? No, that's too many. Say then, from falling off ladders (around 400). Yeah, that's better.

Of course, this only applies to "far away" us. Israel--a much closer target--is definitely in the "existential" bulls eye. The blood cult that lusts for their land is only an extended hike away. And, if nukes are acquired, that's a game-changer for all of us.

Well, if I may, and if you'll allow me; "our" collective problem is not that there is evil in the world and that it is out to get us; no, our "problem" is that we, by our actions and intent, show that we don't warrant an intervention by the Supreme Being mentioned in our founding document. We've strayed quite a bit (see previous posts) and ignoring, and even goading...Him; yes, that results in an existential threat that no distance will assuage.

Two more things: Here's a link to a palatable definition of Existential   

And a quote from our beloved 16th president seems appropriate...once again.

We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us!

(Abraham Lincoln 1863) 

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Renee Ellmers and Abraham Lincoln

Common Cowardice 

(by R.P.Edwards)

I empathize with cowardice

I empathize with fear

I empathize with those who quit

the finish line...so near

I empathize with stuttered steps

of turning when not done
I empathize with losing
with the battle nearly won
I empathize with "if only I"
that haunts the mind for years
I empathize with recurring shame
that leaves its mark in tears
And I empathize with those who pray
receiving strength and grace
And I empathize with these reborn
who finally win...the race

The following is from Lincoln's FIRST inaugural address:

Apprehension seems to exist among the people of the Southern States, that by the accession of a Republican Administration, their property, and their peace, and personal security, are to be endangered. There has never been any reasonable cause for such apprehension. Indeed, the most ample evidence to the contrary has all the while existed, and been open to their inspection. It is found in nearly all the published speeches of him who now addresses you. I do but quote from one of those speeches when I declare that "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so."

____

I was thinking about the recent pro-life disappointment having to do with the "new" congress' (Republican) failure to pass a bill that would prohibit abortions after twenty weeks gestation (when pain supposedly can be felt by the baby). It was defeated by, among others, a former advocate, Renee Ellmers: Something about the "rape" provision, or the timing wasn't right.

Anyway, many of my "life-lovers" are going ballistic over Ms Ellmers' turnaround.  But, I'd like to think, that instead of being devious or traitorous (in a pro-life fashion) that she was and is, for some reason, merely...afraid.

Perhaps she lost focus for a bit. Perhaps the less committed among her colleagues put a doubt-producing bug in her ear. Whatever the reason...she hesitated, choked, fell short.  And now (although the Chief executive said he'd veto the measure [so much for his "Christian" claim,]) the babies will continue to be painfully murdered with abandon. 

But...I believe in redemption; in second chances. And, as one who has on more than one occasion been hindered by "fear," I also know that there can be a steeling, a honing, a putting on of courage. And, when it comes to the monstrous evil of infanticide...we need such as these in the seats of power. I'll be praying for Rep Ellmer's redemption and resolve. And, as for Lincoln; what began as an all-out effort to preserve the Union, ended with being a God-ordained instrument in the abolition of the great evil of his day...slavery.

Following is a copy of his SECOND inaugural address:

 
At this second appearing to take the oath of the Presidential office there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at the first. Then a statement somewhat in detail of a course to be pursued seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, during which public declarations have been constantly called forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs the attention and engrosses the energies of the nation, little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself, and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. 

With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured.
On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago all thoughts were anxiously directed to an impending civil war. All dreaded it, all sought to avert it. While the inaugural address was being delivered from this place, devoted altogether to saving the Union without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it without war—seeking to dissolve the Union and divide effects by negotiation. Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish, and the war came.

One-eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed generally over the Union, but localized in the southern part of it. These slaves constituted a peculiar and powerful interest. All knew that this interest was somehow the cause of the war. To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union even by war, while the Government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. Neither party expected for the war the magnitude or the duration which it has already attained. Neither anticipated that the cause of the conflict might cease with or even before the conflict itself should cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes. "Woe unto the world because of offenses; for it must needs be that offenses come, but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh." If we shall suppose that American slavery is one of those offenses which, in the providence of God, must needs come, but which, having continued through His appointed time, He now wills to remove, and that He gives to both North and South this terrible war as the woe due to those by whom the offense came, shall we discern therein any departure from those divine attributes which the believers in a living God always ascribe to Him? 

Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgements of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."

With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.

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ISIS and Roe v Wade

Isis we

(by R.P.Edwards)

Isis kills

And we're aghast!

The innocents

They've slayed

But we, my friend

Have murdered more

OUR "faith"

is 

 Roe v Wade

It's the anniversary of Roe v Wade; the "landmark" decision by the Supreme Court that gave the "Okay to slay."

A new twist: we (as the above poem points out) are aghast at a group of individuals who, in the name of their god, have no problem slaughtering others who, by our "civilized" standards...are innocent. Yes, we, the level-headed and freedom-loving West, cannot fathom such "evil." 

However, it should be pointed out that there is ANOTHER realm/kingdom, that looks on at OUR actions with greater disgust. For we--civilized and educated and enlightened "we"--have no problem with filling the halls of "heaven" with the spirits of the babies we have murdered because seven "men" aspired to godhood.

It's almost funny if you think about it. "We're" troubled by some Islamic zealots beheading children, when, just down the street in good ol' America little babies--millions upon millions of them--are ripped to shreds and their parts sold to grave robbers. On that note, a saying comes to mind: When those who harvest pigs are asked what is "used" from the animal; they often reply..."Everything but the squeal." If the question would be asked to the abortionist and, by extension, to we who allow such barbarity, the answer might be..."Everything but the cry to God."

Enough said. Following are a couple quotes: Justice Byron White's dissent of the damnable ruling, and Jefferson's thoughts about another evil that has the same parent. 

I find nothing in the language or history of the Constitution to support the Court's judgment. The Court simply fashions and announces a new constitutional right for pregnant women and, with scarcely any reason or authority for its action, invests that right with sufficient substance to override most existing state abortion statutes. The upshot is that the people and the legislatures of the 50 States are constitutionally disentitled to weigh the relative importance of the continued existence and development of the fetus, on the one hand, against a spectrum of possible impacts on the woman, on the other hand. As an exercise of raw judicial power, the Court perhaps has authority to do what it does today; but, in my view, its judgment is an improvident and extravagant exercise of the power of judicial review that the Constitution extends to this Court. Justice Byron White

Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, that his justice cannot sleep forever.
Thomas Jefferson

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Ted Olson vs Martin Luther King Jr

         

Say it

(by R.P.Edwards)

Say it like you mean it

Say it like it's true

Say it like it's always been

That ignorance "Is you"

Say it from the higher ground

Say you're heaven's voice

Say that none will suffer

If the "victims" have this choice

Say our fears are meaningless

Say our thoughts arcane

Say it from the prophet's perch

Invoke the hallowed names

Say it till you sway us

Say till all believe

Say it till destruction comes

For "say it" means...deceive

  

First of all, welcome back to the Fox News Channel (from we Dish subscribers). I was in the final stages of switching. 

Speaking of Fox: I watched a Fox News Sunday segment yesterday (youtube link); a debate (well, not a debate; more a gentle questioning) involving Ted Olson and Tony Perkins over the coming querying by the court over the same-sex issue and the fourteenth amendment. Many judges have been adding their "amen" to the new/old sexual tangent; but there are a few holdouts. Supposedly the highest court will try to solve this conundrum which they themselves are the authors of.

Well, I've written on this sort of thing before; (Not the Same, Chris Wallace, NO!! and probably a few more somewhere), but, on this important memorial, and even though my chalky complexion may lessen my standing; let me just comment that I tire of the endless comparison of the plight of gays to those of African descent. Imagine equating the horrific treatment done to a whole race due to an unchangeable skin pigmentation (murders, assaults, rapes, cruel and inhumane treatment done on a societal level), to those whose "minority status" is defined by "affection" and sexual rubbing. It's absurd...and offensive.

But...my words mean nothing. Less than nothing. I only hope some whose platform is more recognizable have the courage to stand up and speak. The institution of God-ordained and defined marriage needs protecting. So too the legacy of those who literally gave all...to right the injustices brought to mind this day.

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