North Florida Writer
  • Home
  • Blog
  • Life Around Us
  • Contact
  • MY BOOK PAGE

LACK OF ETHICS: Where Does the Buck Stop in a World of No Right or Wrong?

4/30/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Do many even know right from wrong anymore?
I remember well those days back in the early 1950's when I began school.  Right from the start, we were taught the value of the Golden Rule and I immediately realized the link that naturally followed to the Ten Commandments and even Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.  Back in those days, of course, we still said the Pledge of Allegiance, sang America at the start of the day and nearly all members of the class were either of the Christian or Jewish faith where God had so much influence on our lives.  As in times past, we were expected to grow up and be good stewards of goodness in whatever profession we chose and it was generally just accepted. Oh, there were a few bad apples who fell off the tree but for most there was plenty of reason to follow the proper course.  They were all part of good business ethics of the day and where business and social interaction were mostly in the local community, we wouldn't dare do something that would mark us as less than honorable, for no one would ever want to work with us again.

Sadly, something on the road to modernity happened which changed all that. Ethical behavior was watered down and with it came the bond of loyalty between business, customers and associates and it wasn't just of impact in business matters. With the coming of the anti-war movement in the latter 1960's, the flower children free love society and the disregard of standards that had long been accepted, the rules of behavior were watered down and over time just went away in their entirety for so many. All of these changes were furthered by the nuclear family, the elimination of small businesses for bigness and government where politicians answer to the drums of their high roller campaign supporters while giving lip service to the voters.  As we become compartmentalized and organizations get larger and larger, the leaders, be it of big  business and components like Big Ag, Big Oil, Big Retail, Big Banking, Big Education and Big High Tech look for an easier way for themselves by trying to control us instead of serving us. We even see it in our religion and more and more we see the refusal of some bodies to recognize some of the basic foundational truths as well as the laws of nature and even biology in particular in our institutions of faith.  When the divide between the people and the leadership/businesses they used to serve honorably happens on a massive scale, be it a congregation, a customer segment, or even a geographical area and many more such groupings, the link becomes distant, impersonal and with the natural frailties of mankind, thoughts of power and the trappings of it move to center stage.  And it's for just this reason that the common response when you try to reach them over the miles by calling is to receive this: "Your call is very important to us, so please leave a message and we'll get back to you." But then when you get no answer in two or three days, you know that they just don't care.

Do I have the solution to this? Yes, and it's a simple one but I know it would never happen. But just to make it clear, the answer is that we need to get back to the basics in all such endeavors. Basic ethical behavior, in the basic words of Merriam-Webster is simply "dealing with what is good and bad with a moral duty and obligation. When we throw out the concept of goodness and morality, which we have, we've lost the basis of honor which all organizations used to strive for. We've also opened the door to chaos and instability brings when rules of behavior are thrown out.  I guess we have just decided that "if it feels good, do it" or "as long as you don't get caught" it's okay.  And that means that the new ethical standard is "whatever is acceptable in our morally relativistic way is the way we will operate our business." This is why we are in so much difficulty as a society, for we are told there are no absolutes. I just simply reject that as hogwash, but to each his own, I guess.  God help us.

0 Comments

THE MORNING LIGHT: A Daily Symbol of Hope and a Future

4/29/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Be you happy or sad, its guiding light greets you on schedule every morning.
Early before the sunrise nearly every morning, I post a beautiful sunrise picture on my personal and author Facebook pages of the sunrise.  Sometimes it's over the ocean, sometimes over the mountains, but always a picture depicting the end of the darkness of night and the hope of the sunrise for a good new day.  I find it encouraging to me and I am pleased that so many others comment on how it helps them, too, and I think it is important since in a time of so much confusion and struggle it represents a trustworthy symbol of hope and continuity in life that we all need these days.

Over my lifetime I've enjoyed the sunrise in many different locations and terrains. As a boy I watched it often on the Carolina beaches and along the shores of the Hampton Roads in Virginia as it rose majestically out of the open sea or of the large and bustling harbor's waters. Later, I enjoyed the splendor of its rise over the Southern Arizona mountains as if it was taking the top off of those gray early morning heights as if by an explosion of light. And then, I remember driving from my living quarters to my Army unit in Germany on a frosty morning as it showed itself over the snow covered fields.  Today,  I enjoy it as much as I ever did although it is offering its own unique splendor.  Now, as I feed the horses and tend to things in our barn, it first shows in the rays penetrating the pine woods to my east and then filling the shadows in the meadow with glorious light.  It's a comforting sight, for it tells me that no matter what is happening in the here and now and often with such breakneck speed, some things never change and remain constant. And that is a wonderful reminder of something else much greater than the energy power of the sun.

What is that?  Well, put simply, it is the existence of God, our Almighty Father, the One who created us in His image and all the blessings that make this life livable on earth.  The sun is a very great visible example of just that and it reinforces my belief every day.  He wants us to enjoy this life and live it in a way that He finds pleasing. Sadly, as mortal sinners, we can never fully fulfill that wish, yet even so he offers us forgiveness through the sacrifice of His Son.  All we have to do is make the commitment to believe through faith and commune with Him routinely and honestly and openly to learn to discern what He wants of us. When we do, all our problems and issues can be handled without fear and we can then look at the sunrise each morning to reinforce our belief. I know it works for me and it works for millions of others who agree with me. If you don't, well, no one is going to try to force you to do so or ridicule you if you don't, but might I suggest you just enjoy a morning sunrise in the peace and serenity of that beautiful moment and give it a try? It's the perfect time to do so.  I understand how some can be skeptical, and God doesn't mind for He understands each of us better than we do ourselves, but He might just surprise you.  So what have you got to lose if you give it a try? And the answer is nothing.  Go ahead, give it a shot. It has the power to dramatically improve your life and give you peace.

0 Comments

Isn't it Time to Tame the Press and Require Civility at Press Conferences?

4/28/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
Let the whining and moaning begin
Many Americans like me have paid close attention to the press conferences of President Trump and have found him to be very open and honest with reporters and providing them more transparency than they have ever seen before.  Even on the way to Marine One for the short hop to Andrews initiating jet travel, he always stops and spends a few minutes with the press, something others seldom did. Yet no matter how available he is, the overwhelming majority of the press tries to treat him rudely and with disdain. Why?  Because the press is almost entirely made up of reporters of the Left. In fact, they aren't any longer reporters at all, but ideologues trying to create the news rather than report the news and it has happened because the Left has co-opted most college programs, including journalism, in their quest to end free speech as we know it.  If you listen to their comments when they air, you will find them to be all part of the talking points of the Democratic Party which today is tied with them at the hip and no previous President has had to put up with this travesty anywhere near the degree to which the current President has done so. After all, they treated President Obama like he was some kind of god. But even the way they viciously attack Mr. Trump, they can't slow him down.

If I were the President, I'd develop some rules to make sure that the decorum and dignity of the office he holds and the hallowed building and grounds where the press conferences are held are maintained respectfully. I would do so at the start of the next press conference and I would have the rules take effect immediately.  Here's what I think the President should say. My words are in quotation and highlighted:

"Ladies and Gentlemen, now that I've completed my opening remarks, I will receive and respond to your questions in a moment, but first I want to let you know what I expect form you in the press in return for my time.  I expect to see a respectful decorum, no more yelling and loud arguing or interruption. I am here to answer questions honestly provided that you receive them and act in a calm and orderly way. Here's how we will accomplish that.

"First, if you wish to ask a question you will remain seated and quiet and raise your hand when I call for it. The, when I choose a reporter to ask a question, that person will stand, state their name and organization and state the question respectfully. Others will put their hands down and I will answer the question and perhaps have a congenial give and take with the reporter at my choosing. If not, when I call for the next question, the same process will be followed for each additional question. Each questioner will be given one question, unless I am open to more in the give and take but my motive is to allow as many different reporters to have the opportunity for a question as time will permit. I don't mind your disagreeing with me, but if you merely try and slip in a gotcha' type question which begins with an obvious negative intent from the start, I will ignore it and you and move on. I am not here for a public argument, I'm here to provide answers that are reasonable and fairly received. I will make it clear when I am reaching the last question and when that give and take is completed, the questioning is over, so then just be respectful and we can wish each other well as it ends.

"I get it that many of you don't like me and/or my policies, and that's okay. But I do have many more who either agree with me or at least want my thoughts on the issues I am tasked with handling.  I am the President and you are reporters sent here to gather the news, not to create it. Follow these guidelines and it will be productive, but if you don't, I have no problem with shutting it down in an instant. You do your job and I'll do mine and we'll get along fine. And now that's been settled, are there any questions."


I truly believe that something of this order needs to be said to the press and I also believe that if it took place, the conferences could be much better received by all. Sure, there would be some troublemakers who would cry foul, but they always do. But I truly think that good Americans are fed up with what has been going on and want to see some adult behavior instead of a cackle.  Then, again, it's just one person's opinion so take it however you want.  But please, members of the press, let's show some dignity and self-respect. Is that too much to expect?

1 Comment

A PLACE FOR WATERMEN TO PRAY

4/27/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
A great spot for the symbol of forgiveness, redemption and salvation for waterman going out or in from the sea.
When I saw this beautiful picture from the marshes bordering the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay, I knew I wanted to use it in my writing.  It was posted this morning on Facebook by the photographer, Penny, my good Facebook friend and she graciously gave me permission to do so. Why did I want it so badly? Because it reminded me of so many of my relatives who made their living on the sea.  Be they fisherman, crabbers, or even mariners who lived by the sea, the setting looks very similar to that found around Wanchese on Roanoke Island in the Outer Banks, and it just touched my heart.  The picture was taken in Poquoson, Virginia, about one hundred and ten miles due north of Wanchese, and a place that I have often visited and even lived there for a short time before moving to Florida.  And I know there is a story about this beautiful Cross, but I'll instead just write what it says to me.

Being a waterman is a tough job. These brave souls venture out in all kinds of weather to gather the delectable foods from the sea for a living.  These are strong and determined souls who are independent.  They have no sick leave or vacation time, but if they have a very good year and fill their quotas, they then take their "vacation" time to make sure their tools of the trade, including their boat, are maintained and seaworthy. If they unfortunately have a bad year, well, it's up to them to figure out a way to make up for it and many of them do a variety of other jobs when needed to keep their families going.  And because of what they face, of which there can be much danger such as guessing wrong on the weather and being caught in a ferocious gale, they have a very strong faith. For some it seems unspoken, for others they attend church when they can, but I think that beautiful cross could play a very significant place in their faith.  I bet that many a waterman, on the way out to the Chesapeake, or on his way back home, says a prayer, some openly and others quietly, when they see that cross.  They all know that they need greater strength than they have to succeed in what they do and they vividly see the blessing and beauty of God's love in the things about them.  But how do I know this? It comes from my experience with my own family.

My uncles and cousins who made their living on the water were all tough, but they also had a gentle side and they wished no harm to anyone and they always, in their own way, acknowledged the presence of God.  There was my uncle who never darkened the door of a church but who religiously took his devout wife to and from church and would sit in the parking lot with the window open listening to the praises and the songs which were clearly heard.  I remember when crabbing with him on a trot line as he would say thank you, Lord every time he brought in a floater and hook with two jimmies attached.  Or the cousin who ran a fishing boat who would call to God as he worked on a recalcitrant engine that needed to start.  Both were married to good Christian women who they adored and would do anything in the world for them.  There is no doubt in my mind of that they believed in Divine Providence even if they remained quiet about it.  Most watermen are like that. They are quiet, don't speak out loudly, but do what they love to do and witness so much more about what really goes on in real life than some of us might ever understand.

So, that cross, that well positioned cross on the water, has seen its share of sinners who often pray for forgiveness. And, after all, is that too much different than any of us? The truth is, only God really knows. Yet that glorious cross, so well positioned to provide counsel in its quiet way for all those men who pass it on their way every day, also knows. It can't speak, for it is not alive, yet it knows.  If you ever get to pass it, or one like it, as you move about this world, ask it what it tells you. Who knows? It might just give you the answer if God wants you to know. Have a beautiful day.



0 Comments

SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN: Fear Versus Action

4/26/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
What would Jesus say about our situation today?
As I've watched the rapidity with which our country has moved from one of optimism and excitement about our future to one where so many of us seem paralyzed and fearful of our future instead, I increasingly think about what my faith is trying to tell me.  Should I be like so many and back away from what I've believed all my life or should I instead stay strong and resolute in heading into the future which always has been, and always will be, full of pitfalls along the way. It's at times such as this that I know more than ever that I have to take my fears and concerns and place them in the hands of my Lord and Savior to show me the way forward.  And I truly believe there are many like me in this regard although there are many others who choose to scorn and laugh at people with my views and they don't even know why I have come to believe the things I do.  Surely fear and concern are natural reactions when the apple cart of life is turned over and spilled, but rather than sit back, wring our hands and do nothing, now more than ever is when we must get active and go forward in a way that will help us get through such times with a positive and hopeful outcome.  And I think that one thing that might be helpful is for each of us who are of faith, and would also be a good idea for those lacking my beliefs as well, to open their hearts to the Spirit, take a chance on it, and asking  the question that has been asked so many times about so many issues, what would Jesus do?

To put what I think might be an example of what He might say, I want to put us into a situation where Jesus is alive as He was over two thousand years ago as a human, but also as a God, but this time in today's world and facing our current situation. He will be in a situation just as pressure driven as he faced in the Temple on the original Easter week when he taught in front of the people of Jerusalem as well as the religious leaders of His day, knowing that they would try to find all kinds of ways to challenge and even mock Him in hopes that He would fail in His mission and be embarrassed and humiliated by the Elders and be laughed out of the Temple.  In my scenario, consider that Jesus is invited to sit in on a formal task force session on the CoronaVirus in Washington and told He will be allowed to attend the press meeting as well. No one knew who invited Him including the President but there was just something that told them to let him in. When they asked Him what He wanted to say, He deferred, saying they would know when the time was right. They thought that odd but His demeanor and confidence were such that they just accepted what He said. He sits in on the group but never speaks, just listens and He is the only one there not in a business suit. He wears jeans and old running shoes with a clean shirt missing a button and even some in the group question think of questioning his attire, but something just tells them not to. All of them don't know exactly why, but they just know He is special.

When the press gathers in the room and the President and His selected speakers enter the room behind the podium, He comes with them. Even the Secret Service sense they should let Him enter and the President signals that is okay. Even the most powerful man in the nation knows He can't say no to this non-imposing man who just has an aura about Him. The press is buzzing, taking pictures of the man so out of place, yet when He looks at them they feel ashamed and look away. They are actually frightened. After all of the speakers, including those who are primarily concerned with the health issues as well as those who worry about the economic ones finish their presentations, a few questions are asked, much more respectfully than in the past and even the questioners don't fully understand why. The President says the briefing is over and as he turns to lead the team out of the White House briefing, He comes forward, touches the President's arm and says I love you, Brother and all of these people, then walks to the podium. His hair is clean but somewhat unkempt and too long, his face is sunburned with a somewhat scraggly beard and  he stand at the podium looking at the dials and the microphone. He gazes around the room slowly, then pushes the mike out of the way for he doesnt need it. His speech is naturally clear and eloquent for all to hear. He begins:

"Brothers and Sisters, I am not of this world yet all of you are of my Father. I have come today to tell you that you worry too much about things of this world and I have the solution to all of your fears.  I carefully have listened to all of the speakers and they have many fine points which they made, as did the man you call President, yet all of  you, both in the audience and on the podium, are missing the main point. While you have many good things to use in your efforts, the one that can help you most you don't possess and can't on your own.  And you must open your hearts and actively engage it to find the answer.

"You know, over two thousand years I came down here before and my mission was to help all of mankind find that same answer by showing the way.  I was more than just a man, for I was of  my Father who sent me here to provide the way for you to find The Way, The Truth and The Life by giving you that opportunity when I died.  But many didn't listen then and don't listen now and since you were all made in my Father's image, it saddens Him for it keeps you from finding the answer. And it also saddens me that I have to go back to Him and let Him know what I've found. But there is hope for you, because there are many who accept My challenge who have taken it, but it will take many more to finish that task and that's the message I send today and I especially hope those who are making the decisions on the road forward will understand and take My advice. It's their choice and it is yours as well to freely make or not make, but it does provide the answer when applied to those things that have already been understood in your earthly way. You just need to understand the ways of the Kingdom as well to truly meet your objective."


He hesitated for a moment, looked around the room and at those standing on the podium with Him, making each of them feel as if He were looking directly at each one, then said, "And with that I bid you adieu and offer you peace and love and a full understanding of the message I just repeated. It's now in your hands."

As he turned to leave the room, a female press reporter, completely puzzled about who He was, politely asked, "But, Sir, who are you?"

He stopped, turned and looked directly at her with a countenance of joy on His face and said, "I am He." then quickly walked out of the press room, down the hall and out the exit door.  The press and even some of the staff presenters followed in his direction and ran outside looking for Him. But He was nowhere to be found. He had vanished into thin air.  But then, only moments later, the late afternoon clouds broke and the sun shone through, shining its beams like heavenly rays down in front of them and a beautiful white dove flew by them, then upward into the rays.

Will this happen? No, we know it will not, for God has already made the decision that the next time Jesus comes to earth He will come to rule the world for a thousand years before returning to heaven with those present who knew him whence he came. But had God ordained this to happen, it surely could have and it is only offered to show a way that it could have been put to use. No, God wants us to make our decisions on this earth using our own free will but, and this is a big but, if we will open ourselves to Him and listen and heed what he wants us to do, we will make the right decision. And just like the story, that is what needs to be followed. We are capable and smart, but only when we let Him into our decision-making process and follow His guidance do we find the right solutions to all things. And that means the right question is not what would Jesus do?  The right question would be what will we do with Jesus' guidance?  Now go have a blessed Sunday.

0 Comments

ISN'T IT TIME TO SCHOOL DR. FAUCI ON ECONOMICS?

4/24/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Dr. Fauci at the White House briefing podium with the President listening.
Dr. Fauci.   He's a generally private man who occasionally comes into the spotlight at times when a dangerous virus threatens.  Today, with the CoronaVirus so prevalent in the news, he's a household name as Americans tune in to listen as he and Dr. Deborah Birx explain from the medical analytical view what it means.  But while I respect Dr. Fauci and his dedication to his duties, I think he needs to take a crash course in economics to go along with his medical expertise. Why? Because there has been very little change in his way of doing things since his early days and he is dealing with a situation which now has the potential for making the cure worse than the disease. Sadly, it has already done so for many.

As of yesterday at noon, the cost for each individual death in economic terms amounted to five hundred and sixty-four individuals losing their job.  I would think this is what the President was talking about when he stated early on that the cure can't cost more than the disease and, in fairness to the President, I know in his heart he wants to do so very soon.  But to watch so many Governors show little if any concern for their citizens is heartbreaking. Governor Cuomo was asked a question about that and said that everyone's concern was death, yet only two out of ninety eight infected die and now most are making rapid recoveries. So my point about Dr. Fauci including economics in his thinking is that we need a balanced approach, and up to this point it hasn't been balanced.  He should be asked to come up with a plan that will allow Americans to work while those needing help get the care they need by improvising on his time worn methods. This plan has to realize the cost to the country in terms of her economic health as well, it has to be done rapidly as many are already on the edge.  Perhaps the best way to show concerned citizens how important that is would to be have an economic briefer to accompany the good doctor to participate in a joint medical as well as economic health presentation.  That would present real balance in a way that all could see and that would force action to be taken. It's funny how quickly public perception can change the public sees "the rest of the story."

Perhaps Governor Kemp of Georgia will be the catalyst for looking at things with balance, for whether you agree or not he has been given a bad wrap, even by the President who was quite forceful yesterday. At the same time, most have never looked at the Governor's guidelines and they are very tough. It involved social distancing by limiting numbers of customers and even in some very close working situations between customer and service provider through  the use of masks, gloves and continual sanitation and hygienic standards. Some owners have said that is cost prohibitive and they won't open, others say they'll wait for some time, and there is no requirement that they open. But for those who do and are willing to work, if they think their clientele will come for a haircut, a styling or even a tattoo, he's giving them the free will chance to do so. And, of course, we really don't have to worry about state health officials finding flaws, for I'm sure the media will be out and about looking for a scoop and a gotcha' moment. They'll try to put all of the blame on Governor Kemp. And it makes me think of an old cliche that liberals use to justify the things they do and it's one they use heavily (only never concerning the City of Chicago)  as they continue to try and blame the lack of gun control for every bit of gun violence that matches their agenda. And it's the simple quote "if it just saves one life." Maybe, just maybe, we should throw our own cliche back in their face with  a similar quote regarding getting people back to work. What is it? "If it just saves one job." Two can play this game, my friends, two can play this game.  Good luck, Governor Kemp and let's get real, America. Now is the time.

0 Comments

TAKING REASONABLE RISK: It's What Patriotic American Leaders Do

4/23/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp
Yesterday as I watched patriotic Virginia citizens make some noise in Richmond on behalf of small business owners who want to make a living, I thought of the contrast between a man like Ralph Northam, the Democratic Governor and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, a Republican Governor who has also taken one of the strongest stands for freedom in this nation of late.  While Northam grandstands with a platform that is the anathema to so many in the Old Dominion, Kemp has taken  a stand for freedom even though he is being pilloried by the media, many grandstanding Georgia politician, and even a more gentle objection from the President of the United States. To the credit of the President, he has the foresight to let the Governor run his state and that's refreshing in a time when Washington so often dictates to all.  And as for Governor Kemp, he is standing for what he thinks is right, yet he is not forcing citizens to do anything, he is merely looking at the heartbreak and fear of small business owners who have worked hard, made it on their own, and are now faced with financial ruin by a government that is overstepping its constitutional bounds.  And as we find out more and more truth from virus statistics as well as malfeasance by people in high places in the world, the folly of centralized ways is proving it more and more to be overkill, least to the degree it has been imposed.

Look, I get it that people are worried and concerned. After all, the only thing they've been hearing is "flatten the curve" and "social distancing." And then there's "wash your hands" and "don't touch your face." And even after they see that the projections are seriously overblown, the chorus continues on and on. So, just like political correctness, everyone is afraid to really think logically and just go along with what they are being spoonfed 24/7. But here's the thing about what the Governor said that no one listened to.  He is merely allowing small businesses that if kept closed much longer to open provided that they follow the guidelines he has established with the head of the Georgia Health Department. And no one is required to patronize any of those businesses if they don't want. They make a free will choice and decide for themself. That shouldn't bother anyone, but the "groupthink media" and their following politicians can't allow that to happen.  Why? Because what if Governor Kemp pulls it off and is successful?  What if all the hair stylists, barber shops, nail boutiques and even tattoo parlors prove to be so adept at keeping things clean and safe that things work well? That would just kill the zealots' agenda, wouldn't it?

Governor Kemp merely wants people from all walks of life and types of businesses to have the opportunity to save their business and their economic life, but I guess some researcher save and secure in his job at some laboratory just can't understand that. And therein lies the big problem since politicians generally avoid anything they think will cause risk to them and their aspirations.  That's why Kemp, who is also a long-time politician, is cut from a different mold.  He even faced off with the President when the President earlier wanted him to appoint a different person to fill the Senate vacancy that was done last year. Kemp went his own way and, for the record, I didn't like that choice as well but I admired him for sticking to his guns and I think the President did as well. And to the President's credit, he has not tried to keep Kemp from handling this action in his own way and I think he actually admires his willingness to take the fire.  He also is acting as anyone should lead on an issue that is a state issue. Wow, a politician with some fortitude, that's amazing.

So, if you are in Georgia and you oppose what he is doing, don't reopen your business if that's appropriate or don't patronize one of those businesses if it makes you uncomfortable. But there is no reason for Big Brother to make the decision of maintaining a decent standing of living or not for any  business. That is an individual decision if we truly want to be free. I wish Governor Kemp and Georgia well and I hope he is successful and it helps Georgia to be prosperous again, If it does, watch how others start falling in line. It takes a leader to start something worthwhile and maybe this is just the place and the time.  Remember, life itself involves risk. That's unavoidable. But when you are responsible for making decisions that impact many others, you have to weigh and measure risk against benefit. To shut down citizens from their livelihood in a state of ten million or a nation with three hundred and thirty million citizens, when carried too far, just doesn't make sense for this matter and in this time. Kemp is, in my opinion, willing to take a logical risk to save so many that otherwise will face something potentially much worse than the CoronaVirus if they can't work. Apply that to our own life and consider what it would be like to be in that situation. I think all would look at it differently. We're soon going to find out.



0 Comments

To Work or Not to Work, That is the Question

4/22/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Work: It's what we Americans are ready to do.
Work.  It's what we Americans were made to do.  It's what most of us want to do and we don't handle being unable to do it very well.  Why? Because if we want to support ourselves and our families, we know we have to work in order to live and prosper.  I had that hammered into my head as a young boy by my father, a hard working son of immigrants who came to America to make a better life for themselves.  They never got a handout, neither did Dad, and even though he was raised under very modest conditions, he worked his way through college and medical school and became a very successful doctor.  He often quoted the saying that was posted in his high school yearbook about him which said, "Honor lies in honest toil." It's the way he lived and it was the way he taught me to live, yet today, others in powerful places expect us to sit silently and watch our lives fall apart, negating a lifetime of trying to do better.  And a point made by one of the medical scientific types in yesterday's White House briefing just brought the realization of how this situation is viewed is largely based upon where each of us fall into our place in the situation.

The man who made the comment was a smart employee of the CDC, a medical doctor on the staff, saying that it was important to follow their established guidelines to the "T" since we are all in this together and we are all suffering as well.  He was trying to say it as a pep talk but I took it just the opposite, for here was a well paid government employee located in the city that never faces the reality of the rest of the country. He was telling the rest of us who are starting to have many concerns about important things other than the CoronaVirius that we had to forget those concerns for now.  As more and more time goes by, that won't sit very well with many of us and it's because it just isn't the way we were made.  There's a strange thing about most traditional Americans and it is that we love our freedom and when we find it taken away, we want it back as soon as humanly possible. That's why if Washington or even state-level edicts remain too stringent for too long, trouble will ensue and no, I'm not talking about a revolution. What  I'm talking about is the outcome through its impact that will shatter lives to a degree that will make he CoronaVirus look like child's play.

Some say they aren't worried because they are retired and have a great retirement, but don't they realize it takes a good economy to keep the basis for that retirement earning sufficient income to keep it going and remaining solvent. When we get the letter that the retirement is being cut, or even eliminated, when the money dries up, their cushy retirement turns to poverty and despair.  This utter end applies to all of us, even those on the welfare public dole, who will find their benefits going out the window.  Now that would normally give them the incentive to find work, but when the work isn't there, then what?  The modern couple who both worked and now find their source of income gone will, if time goes on too long, turn from worrying about the future to finding a way to practice survival of the fittest.  When thousands, then millions get to that point, Mad Max and Thunderdome will reappear and it won't be on the big screen, it will be right in a neighborhood near us. Even before that, waves of suicide and child and spousal abuse, alcohol and drug overuse will surface for those who can't cope. It's not going to be pretty.

Meanwhile, what about our politicians who make the decisions that get us into such situations and then have no idea how to extricate us from them?  Well, we know that thus far none of them have suffered as they spout their cliches like the doctor mentioned earlier about "we're all in this together" and, in their case, they will be protected from those they serve by armed force and, likely, a walled city that was Washington or the state capital in any state USA if things get too bad. Yes, maybe that's overblown, but I think you see the point. If we Americans can't get our wits about us, we will be toast and what's even sadder, there are some among us who will cheer.  They are the same ones who cheer the oil companies facing default and want to keep America closed interminably.  The only thing is, and this will impact them just as much as the rest of us, when the power goes out and they can't fuel the taxpayer paid limousines that they are privileged to use, it won't matter because it will be too late.  You see, when work shuts down and the taxpayer stops paying taxes because all the money is gone, it will be over for all of us.  But there is another way and it's really simple and makes common sense. How about we get people back to work, safely and with great care for those who are suffering from this modern day plague, and keep our land alive and productive. It's the only approach that can work and with American ingenuity, hard work and dedication, it can, indeed be done.  Have faith instead of gloom in your heart and come on, America, let's do this thing.

0 Comments

Hey, America: Has the "Lockdown" Taught Us Anything About Nature?

4/21/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Canaveral National Seashore, Florida
As I walked out to my barn this morning with the sky brightening in the east and the creatures of the woodlands and on our little farm coming to life, I thought about just how beautiful nature is when we can see it clearly to marvel at and enjoy.  And my thoughts turned to something I've been thinking about during this lockdown and it involves the behavior of so many of us who should know better.  What am I talking about? I'm referring to the way so many of us treat nature in places where it is meant to be enjoyed by all and no place is more evident than on the beach.  And since we humans are also part of nature, something that we often forget, our treatment of one another is part of the equation. Back in earlier days, more of us paid attention to such things but even then we had a few problems, including back at Old Nags Head in her glory days. It was never the locals and it was never the families who owned and enjoyed their cottages for the social stigma they would face if they did would be significant.  No, it was always a few who came to just have what they considered fun, throwing caution to the wind, and often never return, and they often would leave all their trash, including wrappers, empty drink bottles and cans, and all the plastic that came with it. I always wondered what their house looked like back home and if they lived that way there as well.  I remember when pop tops first came in vogue and I even cut my foot on one of them loose in the sand. Our parents taught us back in those day to pick up our mess, as well as someone else's  if we found it left behind and that at least cleaned up something that might have been there for a long time otherwise. Besides, in those days of deposit for bottles, we made a few bucks on the cleanup as well.

Today it's much worse and it seems like with every passing year our lack of concern for others gets much more coarse.  In addition to the trash, music that is too loud when its played, abusive language heard that is, sadly, so often just accepted as the way things are and a general attitude sometimes that is all about ourselves with nary a thought for others.  Those who try to be considerate often have to leave and hope to find somewhere else to go.  In the old days it was the exception which was shown in the Charles Atlas magazine ad about the skinny kid getting sand kicked in his face. Today it is more likely to be someone walking while texting or surfing a smart phone who walks over you on the beach blanket and we think nothing of it excepting, of course, those who lose their cool and make it so much worse.

So, what does God the Creator think  when He looks down at the scene below.  Well, one thing is for certain, He is not happy and He just hopes we remember that we must practice proper dominion over the earth.  He sees some of his most beautiful wild creatures suffering due to our lack of consideration as well as his precious lambs who are us. There's the whale dying a slow and painful death with a stomach full of plastic. Or the majestic seabird who can't open his beak due to the plastic drink carrier holding his beak closed and slowly starving him to death. Or what about the young couple strolling on the beach on a romantic evening when one of them steps in the unexpected, deep hole left open after dark and breaking a leg.  But there's more. There's the little boy who steps on the broken bottle that originated from an unthinking beachgoer, severely cutting his foot and ruining his vacation. Finally, there's the poor horse that has to be put down due to being hit by a beach driver coming too close and spooking the animal that is accustomed to flight when in danger.  Somehow I know that God is not happy, and he truly wonders why so many of us have lost our ability to love as he taught us, lost in self-centered gratification while also not even knowing what they caused.

So, while you are locked inside and can't get to the beach or another place where we long to go for enjoyment, remember these things.  Look at the picture of the beach above and  realize that the only thing needed to take it back to where it was not so many generations ago is to remove the footprints which disappear naturally in just a day or even a high tide or two.  And all it takes is to pay a little attention to detail and think  before we act. That shouldn't be too tough, but it does bring great benefit to those other creatures who share this earth with us and sometimes with even our fellow man. Be considerate, clean up after the day is over and make it a much more livable world. Our fellow inhabitants will appreciate it.

0 Comments

BIBLICAL QUEEN ESTHER: An Example of Divine Womanly Leadership

4/20/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
She was beautiful, smart and courageously faithful. A powerful combination.
One of the most beautiful stories in the Old Testament is the story of Esther, a beautiful young Jewish woman who became Queen of Persia.  The book that bears her name is only one of two books in the Bible named for women, the other being Ruth, and Esther's name is used throughout the Bible more times than any other woman, including Mary.  And it is amazing that the book doesn't really mention God at all, yet it shows in its glory why it is such a valuable literary work to be included in the Bible.  Furthermore, I decided to write about her since in today's world there is so much talk about the power of woman and the need for more women in politics, business and every imaginable endeavor and that is fine.  But what we need more than anything else is talented and motivated women of faith to show the entire world how a woman of faith, just like a good man of faith, can accomplish so much more that is good if she is strong in her belief in God Almighty.

Esther was born in Persia multiple generations following the Jews being freed by King Cyrus and allowed to return to Jerusalem. But the trip was a long one and upon arrival in the Promised Land it would be years before all Jews who wished to return could do so due to lack of necessities to support them in the early stages of survival. Following the death of her parents, Esther was raised by her much older cousin, Mordecai, a devout Jew who nevertheless served ably on the staff of King Ahasueras who we know by the Greek translation, Xerxes.  Xerxes was a fairly reasonable king and he had no problem living peacefully with his Jewish subjects despite their unwillingness to alter their beliefs. They were hard working and peaceful and he allowed them their faith, but when his then Queen Vashti chose not to to follow his commands, he decided she had to be replaced with the coaxing of several of his ministers, especially Haman. Haman was an evil and very ambitious man who put his efforts to gaining more power by convincing Xerxes that he was his most loyal and faithful supporter. By doing so, many better qualified men were passed over and Haman was made Senior Minister to the King, a position which allowed him to represent the King by having edicts officially approved with the seal of the King's signet, which the King gave him to use.  Meanwhile, when the search for a replacement for the Queen was conducted, the beautiful Esther was placed in the competition by her guardian, Mordecai, who knew it would grant her a life where she could support her people should it be needed.  He did, however, tell her not to reveal that she was a Jew, for there were many Jews and non-Jew intermingled in Persia and he knew it would be safer if she kept it to herself. She was quickly selected for her beauty and charm and, with the support of Mordecai, a minister to the King who highly respected him greatly, she quickly learned her role and fulfilled it beautifully. What's more, she and the King actually developed great affection for one another and he generally granted her whatever she wished.  She never asked for too much and was always grateful, and that furthered his admiration for her.

Not long after her coronation, Mordecai  received information about a plot to kill the King and his warning led to the capture and execution of the culprits. The King made a note in his diary about the event and it served to make him think even more highly of the Queen's relative and former guardian. This afforded him regular access and visitation time with the Queen and it was used to jointly worship their faith in Hebrew and in private to keep them both steadfast in their love for Jehovah. It would play a part again soon just ahead.

Haman despised Mordecai because of the very favorable treatment he had in the King's court and he wanted to end that once and for all.  So, he put his newfound powers to  powers to use by issuing an edict, stamped with the seal of the signet, that  all subjects, including those on the royal court, had to bow to Haman, recognizing him as the man with the power to do the King's bidding. King Xerxes had mistakenly thought the Haman would never abuse his power, so trusting of the man that he sometimes was blinded to the truth. On any occasion when Haman would pass Mordecai, the wise man would refuse to bow, saying that the only one he ever bowed to in the King's court was the King himself, for it was the King who was the power, not Haman.  The arrogant  Haman was furious and decided to push harder. He even convinced the King that it might be appropriate to kill Mordecai if he wouldn't give appropriate respect to the first Minister of he government. The King put that under advisement but the evil Haman on his own pushed forward with a plan to kill all Jews, using them as a scapegoat for his ambitious overreach. Mordecai learned of his plan and decided he had to do something to inform the King.

During one of his routine visits to the Queen's residence, Mordecai informed her of the plot being proposed and when it was likely to take place. He implored his younger cousin to inform the King and ask for his intervention, otherwise the entire Jewish population would be destroyed and with it all of their history and the artifacts they maintained forever. He also reminded her that it if came to pass the Haman would finally figure out that Esther was also a Jew. She reminded him that she was not fearful for herself, but she was concerned about those of her heritage. She knw that those Jews in Persia had a wealth of information that would play a part in the written Bible when that time came and Mordecai knew that God would not be pleased if it was destroyed.  Esther also knew that by approaching the King without a summons, she could immediately be put to death as that was common in Persia. And she had seen how such punishment had been delivered against anyone so foolish, whether the King liked or loved them or not. But she also knew from her upbringing that this was something she must do.  And so, she took time to pray to God to give her a plan that would work while giving her protection as well. She would know quickly when she approached whether the King would treat her with favor or not.

As she approached him not long thereafter, King Xerxes held out his golden scepter, the signal that she was granted his protection.  She quickly invited him to a special meal and asked that he bring Haman, his special minister to learn of her request. He told her that when they next met he would give her his blessing. Later, at the meal, Esther, Xerxes' Queen, told him that she had concerns but rather than fill in the details, she asked the two of them to join her the next day where she would reveal her special wish.  In this way, she indirectly notified Haman that he could not continue presently with his evil plans and she knew the King would say yes, for he had already made that commitment to her and he was a man of his word.

Haman quickly became aware that something was amiss, but he had no way of knowing exactly what was up  and would have to rely on his quick mind when he discovered the cause. And so, the next day came and the follow-on meal was held and when the King said he would grant her wish, Queen Esther explained what was going on in the Kingdom and that Haman was the culprit. Xerxes rose from his throne, showed visible distress and rushed out of the room. Haman, now in fear for his life, approached and begged the Queen for forgiveness, but clumsily lost his balance and fell onto the lounge where Esther was reclining. When the King reappeared, it appeared that Haman was assaulting the Queen and the King had him removed and quickly impaled on the stake that the evil man had planned to use on Mordecai.  Esther had remained cool, confident that all of her actions were done in a way that God approved of, and was rewarded by the King with a new edict throughout the land that protected the Jewish people and their possessions throughout Persia. Thereafter, Queen Esther became someone who the King would call on routinely in solving all problems and serving Persia well.

From a childhood as a minority citizen in proud and powerful Persia, to a Queen who stood beside the King in all issues he faced and from whom he needed support, Esther became a faithful steward of God's will and His love throughout the land. And that, my friends. is a powerful example of divine womanly leadership. She could have cowered in fear and still probably retained a lifestyle of opulence, but she also knew that she would be cursed if she didn't follow what she discerned through faith to be what she was expected to do.  I think that is a great story with a fantastic ending and its why I shared it today. God bless you all and keep His light shining bright on all that you do.

0 Comments
<<Previous

    ABOUT ME

    Hi, I'm James, a writer who studies nature,  animals and all things created by God. I also write from time to time about what I think God expects of us.  I would love to hear your thoughts on these subjects. I hope you enjoy my comments.

    Archive

    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012

    Picture

    Categories

    All
    America
    American Sports
    Animals
    Armed Forces Day
    Conservatism
    Doctorpatient0717615167
    Elections-2016
    Florida
    Florida-politics
    Freedom
    Freedom-of-speech
    Geese
    God
    Gods Glory0546cd6883
    Health Care
    Honor
    Integrity
    Jesus Christ
    Koch-brothers
    Leisure-time
    Love
    Military
    Nature
    Primaries
    Proverbs
    Safety
    Savior
    The Future
    Top-political-donors-list
    Tyrannical-government

    RSS Feed

Thanks for contacting northfloridawriter.com.
Photos used under Creative Commons from Arian Zwegers, trvlto, thomas pix, taberandrew, Justin A. Wilcox, Glyn Lowe Photoworks, ckay, phalinn, curtis palmer, bnpositive, oddsock, HooLengSiong, jespahjoy, illustir, ljlphotography, Out at Bob's, The Labour Party, ljlphotography, Mike Licht, NotionsCapital.com, eli.pousson, JasonParis, Fibonacci Blue, wht_wolf9653, bsabarnowl, ` TheDreamSky, Ken_Hoffman, dsearls, NCinDC, James Byrum, DonkeyHotey, Waiting For The Word, cliff1066™, possan, dpape, David Holt London, akeg, Waiting For The Word, Glyn Lowe Photoworks, MilitaryHealth, yukali, infomatique, goforchris, cliff1066™, Wootang01, dctim1, Donald Lee Pardue, LizMarie_AK, campdarby, CedarBendDrive, bill85704, faeparsons, TMAB2003, cliff1066™, Rennett Stowe, KOMUnews, cliff1066™, chris.huggins, USDAgov, mat_walker, gruntzooki, DonkeyHotey, ljlphotography, Elvert Barnes, Paulsasleepwalker, facebook.com/snapshotsofthepast, foto3116, Miller_Center, digitonin, BostonCatholic, Watt_Dabney, jepoirrier, EpicFireworks, derekskey, cletch, DonkeyHotey, KOMUnews, DonkeyHotey, ravensong75, Alan Cleaver, Francisco Diez, hermmermferm, cod_gabriel, Marxchivist, Fibonacci Blue, dbgg1979, “Caveman Chuck” Coker, David Barrie, rjs1322, Just Another Wretch, Keith Laverack, Waiting For The Word, whoohoo120, AFS-USA Intercultural Programs, Brett Jordan, yisris, Michael Hodge, Waiting For The Word, MilitaryHealth, doceggman, AlmazUK, taberandrew, cliff1066™, krossbow, shinya, The Jewish Agency for Israel, kudumomo, “Caveman Chuck” Coker, cliff1066™, johntrainor, emilio labrador, cliff1066™, EraPhernalia Vintage . . . (playin' hook-y ;o), **emmar**, Mrs. Gemstone, Andrea Westmoreland, Jeff Kern, Waiting For The Word, Abdulsalam Haykal, Donald Lee Pardue, roberthuffstutter, Dougtone, b1mbo, DonkeyHotey, paularps, kaatjevervoort, Simon Davison, BONGURI, Marion Doss, ex_magician, Bergfels, Brett Jordan, Tim Evanson, Art4TheGlryOfGod, Jeff Kubina, sskennel, DonkeyHotey, VirtKitty, Rodrigo_Soldon, resistealeau, MilitaryHealth, edalisse, Mervi Eskelinen aka tasselflower, Kaz Andrew, nitram242, Andrew Aliferis, uitdragerij, Paul J Everett, Joe Shlabotnik, Jeffrey, Harry Thomas Photography, Tim Evanson, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region, Ron Cogswell, Nationalmuseet, escapedtowisconsin, Michael Cory, DonkeyHotey, timsamoff, mrbillt6, bnilsen, themonnie, dichohecho, Waiting For The Word, technochick, cliff1066™, RTD Photography, Randy Wick, Enokson, Rising Damp, DonkeyHotey, Waiting For The Word, SteveNakatani, Fovea Centralis, Dru Bloomfield - At Home in Scottsdale, lisaclarke, Mulad, Roswell_UMC, Bengt Nyman, U.S. Embassy New Delhi, FreedomHouse2, SuperFantastic, Rory Finneren, Alaskan Dude, Larry1732, Mr. T in DC, ikewinski, Ivy Dawned, RLHyde, Waiting For The Word, heartajack, dyogi, dailymatador, David Paul Ohmer, Pleuntje, Leonard Bentley, midwestnerd, Donald Lee Pardue, DonkeyHotey, Oli-Oviyan, PatrikWalde, flamesworddragon, The U.S. Army, Zach Heller Photography, DonkeyHotey, EvinDC, Marine Corps Archives & Special Collections, Ronnie Macdonald, Gerry Dincher, The U.S. Army, Jeff Belmonte, DonkeyHotey, Texas Military Forces, jim.greenhill, Ben Sutherland, the Original Jeff Martin, Loz Flowers, CBP Photography, spbpda, OCVA, Hot Rod Homepage, brianholsclaw, dozodomo, quinn.anya, KOMUnews, wtstoffs, Leo Newball, Jr., lilli2de, dmott9, Justin A. Wilcox, sören2013, boboroshi, newagecrap, CoreBurn, simminch, ninahale, EvinDC, Mister Awesome, HeyRocker, beggs, Donald Lee Pardue