Note, this is part 3 in the History series.
"I answered that the die was now cast; I had passed the Rubicon.Swim or sink, live or die, survive or perish with my country was my unalterable determination."--
John Adams Source: Mr. Adams, describing a conversation with Jonathan Sewall in 1774
"We celebrate the principles that are timeless, tenets first declared by men of property and wealth..."
Barack Obama, 4th of July, 2010
To understand that our Country as of the time of our founding fathers was truly a nation in which relied upon God and recognized the need to seek His wisdom, we need to understand what kind of men they were, those who signed the Declaration of Independence. We have all heard the revised versions of these men. Great men such as Jefferson, Franklin, Adams. To believe the modern humanist version of history, these men were Deists at best, and believed that religion had no place in the public square, and especially not in our government. To hear modern scholars speak of the Founders, they were all wealthy, white and owned plantations. Who were they really?
Because of the number of men who signed the Declaration, I can't give whole biographies here. I have, however, provided a link if anyone is interested in learning more about these men.
Fifty-six men from each of the original 13 colonies participated in the Second Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence. Pennsylvania sent nine delegates to the congress, Virginia sent seven and Massachusetts and New Jersey all sent five. Connecticut, Maryland, New York, and South Carolina each sent four delegates. Delaware, Georgia, New Hampshire, and North Carolina each sent three. Rhode Island sent two delegates as it was the smallest of the colonies.
On the whole most of the signers were less wealthy than the Loyalists, although some were quite wealthy. They all had strong educational backgrounds. Some, like Franklin, were largely self-taught or learned through apprenticeship. Others gained their education from private tutors or at academies. About half of the men had attended or graduated from college in the colonies or Britain. Some of the men went on to get their medical degrees or studied advanced theology. Eighteen of the signers were merchants or businessmen, 14 were farmers, and four were doctors. Forty-two of the men had served in their own legislatures. Twenty-two were lawyers nine were judges. One man, Stephen Hopkins had been Governor of Rhode Island.Although two others had been in the clergy, John Witherspoon of New Jersey was the only active clergyman to attend. Almost all were Protestant. Most were either Episcopalian (Anglican) or Presbyterian and one Roman Catholic.
Seventeen of the signers served during the American Revolution, fighting at the Battle of Yorktown, Saratoga and New York among others. Five of the signers were captured by the British during the war. Captains Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, and Arthur Middleton (South Carolina) were all captured at the Battle of Charleston in 1780; Colonel George Walton was wounded and captured at the Battle of Savannah. Richard Stockton of New Jersey never recovered from his imprisonment and died in 1781.
Colonel Thomas McKean of Delaware wrote to John Adams, saying that he was "hunted like a fox," by the enemy. He was forced to "move my family five times in a few months, and at last fixed them in a little log house on the banks of the Susquehanna . . . and they were soon obliged to move again on account of the incursions of the Indians."
Abraham Clark of New Jersey had two of his sons captured by the British during the war. The son of John Witherspoon, a major in the New Jersey Brigade, was killed at the Battle of Germantown.
Vandals or soldiers or both looted the properties of some. Seventeen lost everything they owned. Francis Lewis's home was destroyed and his wife was taken prisoner. John Hart's farm and mills were destroyed when the British invaded New Jersey and he died while escaping instead of being captured. Carter Braxton and Thomas Nelson gave large amounts of their personal fortunes to support the war, and were never repaid. At the Battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr. told that the British General Cornwallis had taken over his family home for his headquarters. Nelson urged General George Washington to open fire on his own home. This was done, and the home was destroyed. Nelson later died bankrupt. Others also suffered serious financial reverses that left them in or near bankruptcy.
Most of the men continued on in public service, mostly to the new government they had helped to create. They weren't war mongers, but these men clearly knew they were taking a huge chance in signing the Declaration. They even pledged, "For the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of the Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other, our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor." They knew their Declaration would mean war and possibly death.
They remained strong in their reliance on God.
Patrick Henry declared during his famous speech given to the House of Burgesses in Virginia, "There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave."
"We have therefore to resolve to conquer or die: Our won Country's Honor, all call upon us for vigorous and manly exertion, and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world. Let us therefore rely upon the goodness of the Cause, and the aid of the Supreme Being, in whose hands Victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble Actions." George Washington, General Orders, July 2, 1776.
Often times we can get a glimpse of a person by the thoughts by others. In closing, a few more quotes by and about some of the men who, were faithful to God and to the Nation they wished to create- one of liberty and freedom, with limited government. One in which they were willing to fight to the death, so the people could be free.
"Don't fire unless fired upon. But if they want a war let it begin here." Captain John Parker, commander of the militiamen at Lexington, Massachusetts, on siting British Troops (attributed), April 19, 1775
"It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not." John Adams, letter to Abigail Adams, July 3, 1776
I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." Nathan Hale, before being hanged by the British, September 22, 1776
We know the Race is not to the swift nor the Battle to the Strong. Do you not think an Angel rides in the Whirlwind and directs this Storm?" John Page, letter to Thomas Jefferson, July 20, 1776
These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman." Thomas Paine, The American Crisis, No. 1, December 19, 1776
“ He who made all men hath made the truths necessary to human happiness obvious to all… Our forefathers opened the Bible to all.”- "American Independence," August 1, 1776. Speech delivered at the State House in Philadelphia, John Quincy Adams
"There is a time for all things, a time to preach and a time to pray, but those times have passed away. There is a time to fight, and that time has now come."
Peter Muhlenberg, from a Lutheran sermon read at Woodstock, Virginia, Jan, 1776
"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it."
Thomas Paine, The American Crisis, No. 4, September 11, 1777
I hope some future day will bring me the happiness of seeing my family again collected under our own roof, happy in ourselves and blessed in each other."
Abigail Adams, letter to John Adams, March 15, 1784
"Every person seems to acknowledge his greatness. He blends together the profound politician with the scholar." William Pierce, on James Madison, 1787
"An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to have the most active part in it." John Paul Jones, letter to Governor Morris, Sept 2, 1782
First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in humble and enduring scenes of private life. Pious, just humane, temperate, and sincere; uniform dignified, and commanding; his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private charter gave effulgence to his public virtues. Such was the man for whom our nation morns. " John Marshall, official eulogy of George Washington, delivered by Richard Henry Lee, December 26, 1799
"[He] will live in the memory and gratitude of the wise & good, as a luminary of Science, as a votary of liberty, as a model of patriotism, and as a benefactor of human kind." James Madison, on Thomas Jefferson in a letter to Nicholas P. Trist, July 6, 1826
Next up, The Federalist Papers.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
American History- Man’s Law Based on God’s Law
Note, this is part 2 of the series. For part 1, please see previous article.
Please keep these quotes in mind as you read below.
"Far from being rivals or enemies, religion and law are twin sisters, friends, and mutual assistants. Indeed, these two sciences run into each other. The divine law, as discovered by reason and the moral sense, forms an essential part of both."
James Wilson, signer of the Declaration of Independence
"We need somebody who's got the heart, the empathy, to recognize what it's like to be a young teenage mom. The empathy to understand what it's like to be poor, or African-American, or gay, or disabled, or old. And that's the criteria by which I'm going to be selecting my judges."
Barack Obama
We are not to attribute this prohibition of a national religious establishment [in the First Amendment] to an indifference to religion in general, and especially to Christianity (which none could hold in more reverence than the framers of the Constitution)"“At the time of the adoption of the constitution, and of the amendment to it, now under consideration [i.e., the First Amendment], the general, if not the universal sentiment in America was, that Christianity ought to receive encouragement from the state, so far as was not incompatible with the private rights of conscience, and the freedom of religious worship. Any attempt to level all religions, and to make it a matter of state policy to hold all in utter indifference, would have created universal disapprobation, if not universal indignation.” Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States, and A Familiar Exposition of the Constitution of the United States
Who was Blackstone?
William Blackstone was the 18th Century English legal scholar whose writings were based on Judeo-Christian principles. The Ten Commandments were at the center of Blackstone's philosophy, and he taught that man is created by God and granted fundamental rights by God. He knew that man’s law must be based on God’s law.
Blackstone's lectures were published in England between 1765 and 1769. An American edition was published in Philadelphia between 1771-72. The Founding Fathers realized the importance of Blackstone's Commentaries and he was a person who had a huge influence on the thinking of our founding fathers. Blackstone’s writings, called Commentaries on the Laws of England, was the basis to the U. S. Constitution, and were the basic textbook of America’s early lawyers.
Blackstone’s influence on both English and American law was largely recognized until well into the Twentieth Century, when the so called progressive/humanist enlightenment started marching through America's government and education institutions. It was only in the mid-Twentieth Century that American law, being re-written by the U. S. Supreme Court, refused to acknowledge Blackstone's writings. The modern court and progressive government had no need for a legal authority which acknowledged higher Law from God, because they wanted to push the idea that man is the giver of liberties and that natural and moral law is evolving. If people began to believe that man was his own authority, and that liberties came from government, there would no longer be any need for God. We could become our own salvation through federal government.
United States Supreme Court Justice John Marshall and other early American justices built the American legal system which was based on Blackstone's Commentaries. In fact, the most important of Marshall’s decisions, he cited Blackstone several times to promote the concept of Constitutional supremacy over the power of judges. Our early SCOTUS recognized the importance of the Judeo Christian foundation. Appointed to the Supreme Court by James Madison, the author of the First Amendment to the Constitution, Justice Joseph Story commented on this basis,"The real object of the First Amendment was not to countenance, much less to advance Mohammedanism, or Judaism, or infidelity, by prostrating Christianity, but to exclude all rivalry among Christian sects [denominations] and to prevent any national ecclesiastical patronage of the national government."
Back to Blackwell
Here are the basic principals of his Commentaries. As you read the summery below, keep in mind the quotes above and the extent to which American law has done away with much if not most of what Blackstone and our Founders believed.
Law as the order of the universe. “Thus when the Supreme Being formed the universe, and created matter out of nothing, He impressed certain principles upon that matter, from which it can never depart, and without which it would cease to be. When he put the matter into motion, He established certain laws of motion, to which all movable bodies must conform . . . .”
Law as a rule of human action. “. . . the precepts by which man, the noblest of all sublunary beings, a creature endowed with both reason and free will, is commanded to make use of those faculties in the general regulation of his behavior.”
Law of nature. “These are the eternal, immutable laws of good and evil, to which the Creator Himself in all His dispensations conforms; and which He has enabled human reason to discover, so far as they are necessary for the conduct of human actions.”
Revealed law. “The doctrines . . . delivered [by an immediate and direct revelation] we call the revealed or divine law, and they are to be found only in the Holy Scriptures . . . . Upon these two foundations, the law of nature and the law of revelation, depend all human laws; that is to say, no human laws should be suffered to contradict these.”
Law of nations. [A]s it is impossible for the whole race of mankind to be united in one great society, they must necessarily divide into many . . . . [the regulation of their interaction] is the law of nations . . . [it] depends entirely upon the rules of natural law, or upon mutual compacts, treaties, leagues, and agreements . . . .”
Municipal law. “[This is] a rule of civil conduct, prescribed by the supreme power in a state, commanding what is right and prohibiting what is wrong. But no human authority can act without limits.”
There are three primary personal rights:
Personal security. The right …consists in a person’s legal and uninterrupted enjoyment of his life, his limbs, his body, his health, and his reputation.
Personal liberty. This personal liberty consists in the power of locomotion, of changing situation, or removing one’s person to whatsoever place one’s own inclination may direct; without imprisonment or restraint, unless by due course of law.
Right of private property: law of the land. [This right] consists in the free use, enjoyment, and disposal [by man] of all his acquisitions, without any control or diminution, save only by the laws of the land.
You can see by Blackstone's philosophies why the modern progressive humanists would want to cut any mention of his commentaries from our courts and education. Clearly his views on personal properties, personal liberty and societal laws based on revealed and natural law given by our creator has no place in a society where man, not God is the master and giver of all things.
As for the man, William Blackstone, in 1761 he was appointed king’s councilor, elected to the house of commons, where he was a hard line Tory. He voted against, much of the time, interests important to the colonies, including the Stamp Tax. In 1770, he was knighted and appointed as a Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. Little did he know how much of an influence he had on those men who brought about the American Revolution.
In the next article, we'll learn about the men behind the signatures of The Declaration of Independence.
Until then, You can read Blackstone's Commentaries here, at the Avalon Project at Yale University.
Please keep these quotes in mind as you read below.
"Far from being rivals or enemies, religion and law are twin sisters, friends, and mutual assistants. Indeed, these two sciences run into each other. The divine law, as discovered by reason and the moral sense, forms an essential part of both."
James Wilson, signer of the Declaration of Independence
"We need somebody who's got the heart, the empathy, to recognize what it's like to be a young teenage mom. The empathy to understand what it's like to be poor, or African-American, or gay, or disabled, or old. And that's the criteria by which I'm going to be selecting my judges."
Barack Obama
We are not to attribute this prohibition of a national religious establishment [in the First Amendment] to an indifference to religion in general, and especially to Christianity (which none could hold in more reverence than the framers of the Constitution)"“At the time of the adoption of the constitution, and of the amendment to it, now under consideration [i.e., the First Amendment], the general, if not the universal sentiment in America was, that Christianity ought to receive encouragement from the state, so far as was not incompatible with the private rights of conscience, and the freedom of religious worship. Any attempt to level all religions, and to make it a matter of state policy to hold all in utter indifference, would have created universal disapprobation, if not universal indignation.” Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States, and A Familiar Exposition of the Constitution of the United States
"[T]he government may not favor one religion over another, or religion over irreligion, religious choice being the prerogative of individuals under the Free Excersise Clause." Board of Education of Kiryas Joel Village School Dist. v. Grumet 512 U.S. 687, 703 (1994)
"You have an obligation to yourself. Because our individual salvation depends on collective salvation."
Barack Obama
Who was Blackstone?
William Blackstone was the 18th Century English legal scholar whose writings were based on Judeo-Christian principles. The Ten Commandments were at the center of Blackstone's philosophy, and he taught that man is created by God and granted fundamental rights by God. He knew that man’s law must be based on God’s law.
Blackstone's lectures were published in England between 1765 and 1769. An American edition was published in Philadelphia between 1771-72. The Founding Fathers realized the importance of Blackstone's Commentaries and he was a person who had a huge influence on the thinking of our founding fathers. Blackstone’s writings, called Commentaries on the Laws of England, was the basis to the U. S. Constitution, and were the basic textbook of America’s early lawyers.
Blackstone’s influence on both English and American law was largely recognized until well into the Twentieth Century, when the so called progressive/humanist enlightenment started marching through America's government and education institutions. It was only in the mid-Twentieth Century that American law, being re-written by the U. S. Supreme Court, refused to acknowledge Blackstone's writings. The modern court and progressive government had no need for a legal authority which acknowledged higher Law from God, because they wanted to push the idea that man is the giver of liberties and that natural and moral law is evolving. If people began to believe that man was his own authority, and that liberties came from government, there would no longer be any need for God. We could become our own salvation through federal government.
United States Supreme Court Justice John Marshall and other early American justices built the American legal system which was based on Blackstone's Commentaries. In fact, the most important of Marshall’s decisions, he cited Blackstone several times to promote the concept of Constitutional supremacy over the power of judges. Our early SCOTUS recognized the importance of the Judeo Christian foundation. Appointed to the Supreme Court by James Madison, the author of the First Amendment to the Constitution, Justice Joseph Story commented on this basis,"The real object of the First Amendment was not to countenance, much less to advance Mohammedanism, or Judaism, or infidelity, by prostrating Christianity, but to exclude all rivalry among Christian sects [denominations] and to prevent any national ecclesiastical patronage of the national government."
Back to Blackwell
Here are the basic principals of his Commentaries. As you read the summery below, keep in mind the quotes above and the extent to which American law has done away with much if not most of what Blackstone and our Founders believed.
Law as the order of the universe. “Thus when the Supreme Being formed the universe, and created matter out of nothing, He impressed certain principles upon that matter, from which it can never depart, and without which it would cease to be. When he put the matter into motion, He established certain laws of motion, to which all movable bodies must conform . . . .”
Law as a rule of human action. “. . . the precepts by which man, the noblest of all sublunary beings, a creature endowed with both reason and free will, is commanded to make use of those faculties in the general regulation of his behavior.”
Law of nature. “These are the eternal, immutable laws of good and evil, to which the Creator Himself in all His dispensations conforms; and which He has enabled human reason to discover, so far as they are necessary for the conduct of human actions.”
Revealed law. “The doctrines . . . delivered [by an immediate and direct revelation] we call the revealed or divine law, and they are to be found only in the Holy Scriptures . . . . Upon these two foundations, the law of nature and the law of revelation, depend all human laws; that is to say, no human laws should be suffered to contradict these.”
Law of nations. [A]s it is impossible for the whole race of mankind to be united in one great society, they must necessarily divide into many . . . . [the regulation of their interaction] is the law of nations . . . [it] depends entirely upon the rules of natural law, or upon mutual compacts, treaties, leagues, and agreements . . . .”
Municipal law. “[This is] a rule of civil conduct, prescribed by the supreme power in a state, commanding what is right and prohibiting what is wrong. But no human authority can act without limits.”
There are three primary personal rights:
Personal security. The right …consists in a person’s legal and uninterrupted enjoyment of his life, his limbs, his body, his health, and his reputation.
Personal liberty. This personal liberty consists in the power of locomotion, of changing situation, or removing one’s person to whatsoever place one’s own inclination may direct; without imprisonment or restraint, unless by due course of law.
Right of private property: law of the land. [This right] consists in the free use, enjoyment, and disposal [by man] of all his acquisitions, without any control or diminution, save only by the laws of the land.
You can see by Blackstone's philosophies why the modern progressive humanists would want to cut any mention of his commentaries from our courts and education. Clearly his views on personal properties, personal liberty and societal laws based on revealed and natural law given by our creator has no place in a society where man, not God is the master and giver of all things.
As for the man, William Blackstone, in 1761 he was appointed king’s councilor, elected to the house of commons, where he was a hard line Tory. He voted against, much of the time, interests important to the colonies, including the Stamp Tax. In 1770, he was knighted and appointed as a Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. Little did he know how much of an influence he had on those men who brought about the American Revolution.
In the next article, we'll learn about the men behind the signatures of The Declaration of Independence.
Until then, You can read Blackstone's Commentaries here, at the Avalon Project at Yale University.
Friday, July 9, 2010
To Know America, You Have to Start at the Beginning
Note- this is the first article of a series on America's Founders and the values and beliefs which America was founded on.
Liberty cannot be established without morality, nor morality without faith.
Alexis de Tocqueville
The Americans combine the notions of religion and liberty so intimately in their minds, that it is impossible to make them conceive of one without the other.
Alexis de Tocqueville
Those of you who know me, know I immigrated here from Canada nearly 20 years ago. My husband and I were talking one day not too long ago about the state of things now. I said, I don't know who it's harder for, to see America being trashed. Those who were born here and having to see it, or those of us who came here to freedom, only to have it slipping away. Many millions have come to America to escape tyranny, oppression and poverty, have built families, lives and lively hoods. They had begun to see what freedom was- and now they are afraid because it is resembling too closely to what they thought they'd left behind.
I have for the past few years been interested in the history of America, and more so now. I have realized that too many people who have lived their entire lives here have no idea what the Country founding was all about. Many people love their country, but have no idea of the importance of History, and how if one does not know their history- they will not understand their liberties and freedoms. If they don't know where their liberties come from, and wrongly assume they are given by the government, they will lose them before they know it. I worry for the generations after mine who, if they are not taught the real History of America, they will never know how damaging the present state of our politics are to their own freedoms. It is for them that I am attempting to bring it out into the light for all to see and learn.
To know America's history, one must know before the beginning. Many people were taught about the Mayflower and the pilgrims and Thanksgiving Turkey. Mayflower Compact – What is it?The Mayflower Compact was a document written by a group of the new settlers arriving at New Plymouth in November of 1620. They had traveled across the ocean on the ship Mayflower which anchored near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. All of the adult male members on the Mayflower signed the Compact. Being the first written laws for the new land, the Compact set the authority within the settlement and established that the colony was to be free of English law. It was shaped to form a government of themselves and was written by those to be governed.
The Mayflower Compact reads:
"In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of England, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, e&. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia; do by these presents, solemnly and mutually in the Presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid; And by Virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the General good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini, 1620."
I don't start this article with the Mayflower Compact just to show that America was in fact based on the Christian belief and for the purpose of spreading the Gospel, but to show a springboard onto the later documents which became the basis of the government and laws of America- The Declaration of Independence and The Constitution. It is a fact that many of America's earlier historians referred to the Mayflower Compact as the foundation of the U.S. Constitution which was written more than 150 later.
The first Charter of Virginia was written on the solid basis which made up that of the Mayflower Compact. It was granted by King James I, on April 10, 1606, and states:
We, greatly commending, and graciously accepting of, their Desires for the Furtherance of so noble a Work, which may, by the Providence of Almighty God, hereafter tend to the Glory of his Divine Majesty, in propagating of Christian Religion to such People, as yet live in Darkness and miserable Ignorance of the true Knowledge and Worship of God…Instructions for the Virginia Colony (1606)
John Adams, one of the Founders more than a century later understood the ideals of the earliest settlers when he said, “ The general principles upon which the Fathers achieved independence were the general principals of Christianity… I will avow that I believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”
The foundation for the land which was to become the United States of America was the Gospel of the Bible. The founding fathers knew this, and learned from it. How they also understood that freedom and liberties are given by God and not the government is a large part of why a new government, separated from the Crown of England came about.
When after numerous grievances against the Crown brought nothing but contempt and misery, the founders felt it was time to declare a separation. They turned not only to their strong moral and religious beliefs in God, but also to the legal writings by a man named William Blackstone.
I aim for once, to keep these articles shorter, so I will end here. We will look more closely next time at William Blackstone, and why his legal writings were so important to the founders that much of what he wrote was woven into American history. Until next time- I invite you to read the Declaration of Independence again, as to understand what the early colonies were facing in a tyranny of the English Monarchy, and try and see if any could be compared with what we are facing these days.
Liberty cannot be established without morality, nor morality without faith.
Alexis de Tocqueville
The Americans combine the notions of religion and liberty so intimately in their minds, that it is impossible to make them conceive of one without the other.
Alexis de Tocqueville
Those of you who know me, know I immigrated here from Canada nearly 20 years ago. My husband and I were talking one day not too long ago about the state of things now. I said, I don't know who it's harder for, to see America being trashed. Those who were born here and having to see it, or those of us who came here to freedom, only to have it slipping away. Many millions have come to America to escape tyranny, oppression and poverty, have built families, lives and lively hoods. They had begun to see what freedom was- and now they are afraid because it is resembling too closely to what they thought they'd left behind.
I have for the past few years been interested in the history of America, and more so now. I have realized that too many people who have lived their entire lives here have no idea what the Country founding was all about. Many people love their country, but have no idea of the importance of History, and how if one does not know their history- they will not understand their liberties and freedoms. If they don't know where their liberties come from, and wrongly assume they are given by the government, they will lose them before they know it. I worry for the generations after mine who, if they are not taught the real History of America, they will never know how damaging the present state of our politics are to their own freedoms. It is for them that I am attempting to bring it out into the light for all to see and learn.
To know America's history, one must know before the beginning. Many people were taught about the Mayflower and the pilgrims and Thanksgiving Turkey. Mayflower Compact – What is it?The Mayflower Compact was a document written by a group of the new settlers arriving at New Plymouth in November of 1620. They had traveled across the ocean on the ship Mayflower which anchored near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. All of the adult male members on the Mayflower signed the Compact. Being the first written laws for the new land, the Compact set the authority within the settlement and established that the colony was to be free of English law. It was shaped to form a government of themselves and was written by those to be governed.
The Mayflower Compact reads:
"In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of England, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, e&. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia; do by these presents, solemnly and mutually in the Presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid; And by Virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the General good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini, 1620."
I don't start this article with the Mayflower Compact just to show that America was in fact based on the Christian belief and for the purpose of spreading the Gospel, but to show a springboard onto the later documents which became the basis of the government and laws of America- The Declaration of Independence and The Constitution. It is a fact that many of America's earlier historians referred to the Mayflower Compact as the foundation of the U.S. Constitution which was written more than 150 later.
The first Charter of Virginia was written on the solid basis which made up that of the Mayflower Compact. It was granted by King James I, on April 10, 1606, and states:
We, greatly commending, and graciously accepting of, their Desires for the Furtherance of so noble a Work, which may, by the Providence of Almighty God, hereafter tend to the Glory of his Divine Majesty, in propagating of Christian Religion to such People, as yet live in Darkness and miserable Ignorance of the true Knowledge and Worship of God…Instructions for the Virginia Colony (1606)
John Adams, one of the Founders more than a century later understood the ideals of the earliest settlers when he said, “ The general principles upon which the Fathers achieved independence were the general principals of Christianity… I will avow that I believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”
The foundation for the land which was to become the United States of America was the Gospel of the Bible. The founding fathers knew this, and learned from it. How they also understood that freedom and liberties are given by God and not the government is a large part of why a new government, separated from the Crown of England came about.
When after numerous grievances against the Crown brought nothing but contempt and misery, the founders felt it was time to declare a separation. They turned not only to their strong moral and religious beliefs in God, but also to the legal writings by a man named William Blackstone.
I aim for once, to keep these articles shorter, so I will end here. We will look more closely next time at William Blackstone, and why his legal writings were so important to the founders that much of what he wrote was woven into American history. Until next time- I invite you to read the Declaration of Independence again, as to understand what the early colonies were facing in a tyranny of the English Monarchy, and try and see if any could be compared with what we are facing these days.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Study Time
Hey folks- just wanted to say, I've been busy studying, and gathering information and thoughts for the next article. It will be in parts again, but too important to leave anything out. The only hint I'm giving, is it will have a lot to do with my previous post. If you haven't read it- now's the time!
God Bless and hopefully I'll have something ready soon~
God Bless and hopefully I'll have something ready soon~
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776
When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident:
That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.
Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained; and, when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature, a right inestimable to them, and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing, with manly firmness, his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining, in the mean time, exposed to all the dangers of invasions from without and convulsions within.
He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands.
He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.
He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies, without the consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the military independent of, and superior to, the civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our Constitution and unacknowledged by our laws, giving his assent to their acts of pretended legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us;
For protecting them, by a mock trial, from punishment for any murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these states;
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world;
For imposing taxes on us without our consent;
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury;
For transporting us beyond seas, to be tried for pretended offenses;
For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries, so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these colonies;
For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering fundamentally the forms of our governments;
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection and waging war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burned our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation, and tyranny already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow-citizens, taken captive on the high seas, to bear arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hands.
He has excited domestic insurrection among us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes, and conditions.
In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms; our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in our attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity; and we have conjured them, by the ties of our common kindred, to disavow these usurpations which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too, have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity.
We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation, and hold them as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these colonies solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British crown and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved; and that, as free and independent states, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.
[Signed by] JOHN HANCOCK [President] New Hampshire
JOSIAH BARTLETT,
WM. WHIPPLE,
MATTHEW THORNTON.Massachusetts Bay
SAML. ADAMS,J
OHN ADAMS,
ROBT. TREAT PAINE,
ELBRIDGE GERRYRhode Island
STEP. HOPKINS,WILLIAM ELLERY.Connecticut
ROGER SHERMAN,
SAM'EL HUNTINGTON,
WM. WILLIAMS,
OLIVER WOLCOTT.New York
WM. FLOYD,
PHIL. LIVINGSTON,
FRANS. LEWIS,
LEWIS MORRIS.New Jersey
RICHD. STOCKTON,
JNO. WITHERSPOON,
FRAS. HOPKINSON,
JOHN HART,
ABRA. CLARK.Pennsylvania
ROBT. MORRIS
BENJAMIN RUSH,
BENJA. FRANKLIN,
JOHN MORTON,
GEO. CLYMER,
JAS. SMITH,
GEO. TAYLOR,
JAMES WILSON,
GEO. ROSS.Delaware
CAESAR RODNEY,
GEO. READ,
THO. M'KEAN.Maryland
SAMUEL CHASE,
WM. PACA,
THOS. STONE,
CHARLES CARROLL of Carrollton.Virginia
GEORGE WYTHE,
RICHARD HENRY LEE,
TH. JEFFERSON,
BENJA. HARRISON,
THS. NELSON, JR.,
FRANCIS LIGHTFOOT LEE,
CARTER BRAXTON.North Carolina
WM. HOOPER,
JOSEPH HEWES,
JOHN PENN.South Carolina
EDWARD RUTLEDGE,
THOS. HAYWARD, JUNR.,
THOMAS LYNCH, JUNR.,
ARTHUR MIDDLETON.Georgia
BUTTON GWINNETT,
LYMAN HALL,
GEO. WALTON.
We hold these truths to be self-evident:
That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.
Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained; and, when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature, a right inestimable to them, and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing, with manly firmness, his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining, in the mean time, exposed to all the dangers of invasions from without and convulsions within.
He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands.
He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.
He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies, without the consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the military independent of, and superior to, the civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our Constitution and unacknowledged by our laws, giving his assent to their acts of pretended legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us;
For protecting them, by a mock trial, from punishment for any murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these states;
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world;
For imposing taxes on us without our consent;
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury;
For transporting us beyond seas, to be tried for pretended offenses;
For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries, so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these colonies;
For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering fundamentally the forms of our governments;
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection and waging war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burned our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation, and tyranny already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow-citizens, taken captive on the high seas, to bear arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hands.
He has excited domestic insurrection among us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes, and conditions.
In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms; our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in our attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity; and we have conjured them, by the ties of our common kindred, to disavow these usurpations which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too, have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity.
We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation, and hold them as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these colonies solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British crown and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved; and that, as free and independent states, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.
[Signed by] JOHN HANCOCK [President] New Hampshire
JOSIAH BARTLETT,
WM. WHIPPLE,
MATTHEW THORNTON.Massachusetts Bay
SAML. ADAMS,J
OHN ADAMS,
ROBT. TREAT PAINE,
ELBRIDGE GERRYRhode Island
STEP. HOPKINS,WILLIAM ELLERY.Connecticut
ROGER SHERMAN,
SAM'EL HUNTINGTON,
WM. WILLIAMS,
OLIVER WOLCOTT.New York
WM. FLOYD,
PHIL. LIVINGSTON,
FRANS. LEWIS,
LEWIS MORRIS.New Jersey
RICHD. STOCKTON,
JNO. WITHERSPOON,
FRAS. HOPKINSON,
JOHN HART,
ABRA. CLARK.Pennsylvania
ROBT. MORRIS
BENJAMIN RUSH,
BENJA. FRANKLIN,
JOHN MORTON,
GEO. CLYMER,
JAS. SMITH,
GEO. TAYLOR,
JAMES WILSON,
GEO. ROSS.Delaware
CAESAR RODNEY,
GEO. READ,
THO. M'KEAN.Maryland
SAMUEL CHASE,
WM. PACA,
THOS. STONE,
CHARLES CARROLL of Carrollton.Virginia
GEORGE WYTHE,
RICHARD HENRY LEE,
TH. JEFFERSON,
BENJA. HARRISON,
THS. NELSON, JR.,
FRANCIS LIGHTFOOT LEE,
CARTER BRAXTON.North Carolina
WM. HOOPER,
JOSEPH HEWES,
JOHN PENN.South Carolina
EDWARD RUTLEDGE,
THOS. HAYWARD, JUNR.,
THOMAS LYNCH, JUNR.,
ARTHUR MIDDLETON.Georgia
BUTTON GWINNETT,
LYMAN HALL,
GEO. WALTON.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Politicians Fiddle While the Gulf Coast Burns
As the days drag on and the tar and oil covered wildlife creep ever closer to our beaches, I have not been the only one frustrated. I'm having flashbacks of Slick Willie's "I feel your pain" every time Obama opens his mouth with a fisherman, business owner or multi generation shrimper.I am frustrated at those who think big oil is the monster and ought to be shut down and gone for good. I'm angry at government for causing this disaster to be as big as it is and still growing. Before you say, now wait a minute, it's BP's fault, let me lay out some things.
First of all, I do blame BP. They have a huge mess that shouldn't have, or wouldn't have been if they had have done things right when they started fudging the safety rules. They have a responsibility to their employees to make sure things are done safely and properly. They have a responsibility to their share holders to do business the right way- to make money honestly. They have a responsibility to those independent franchise owners who bear the BP name, whom, by the way are feeling the brunt of much of this by ignorant people boycotting them. These are localized businesses folks- boycotting them hurts only your own local working folks, not the head corporation.
Anyway, BP has much responsibility, and they are and will be paying for their part.
I have to ask though. Who is going to take responsibility in the American government for their huge part in making this the worst environmental disaster to hit the Gulf States?
Long before, when the liberals prevented onshore and interior drilling, most oil companies were moved far off shore where accidents would not be able to be contained as quick as they could be if they were allowed to drill closer. We've seen all the failed attempts to cap this well in deep water, and we know that the first attempt would have worked if they had have been allowed in shallower waters or on land.
Government regulations have been in place for decades- so tell me, if the BP corp has questionable safety records- whose responsibility is it to shut them down until they clean themselves up? Uh, the government perhaps? Why bother having regulations if you don't regulate??!
This present administration did not cause this spill, but thanks to them and their politicking, using this in those famous Rham Emmanuel words "Don't let a good crisis go to waste", well, they ought to be proud of themselves- as they are milking this situation for everything they can. They have made big oil the fall guy- again. These progressives just hate corporations. Well, except when they are getting campaign millions that is. So, most folks who follow the lame stream media religiously all now hate big oil. Isn't that great? The wildlife is dying, but at least people hate corporate fat cats. So. Obama cares- he feels our pain. That's why he's been on this from day one. Sure. Go play another golf game obama, maybe we might just get this cleaned up quicker.
Our southern governors have no one to turn to, so they are tying to do all they can for themselves. Too bad the feds keep getting in the way.Quick run down, and I'll give the link for each one- if you're interested in learning.
People blamed Bush for the Katrina disaster. It's old news and people believe what they want to believe. At least Bush wavered the Jone's Act so to allow help into the coasts of Katina stricken states. Now, with Gov. Jindall who has been begging for help since day one, he has tried to do what he can to take charge. Only problem is, every time he turns around, his efforts are being hemmed in by the feds- the EPA, the Coast Guard and Federal Fish and Wildlife. The man's hands have been tied while he sees his people's lives sacked, and his shorelines trashed.
Obama has been on this from day one- sure. He's had offers from around the world to help with this- but they've been denied because of the Jone's Act. He's refused until now to lift the ban on foreign vessels. Counties who have offered have shaken their heads over the denials of help.
Sure and Obama has made his rounds a couple of times, blaming big oil all the way. He's used this crisis to push his Cap and Trade (Read massive fake global warming energy tax) and like Chicago gangsters of old, muscled his way and strong armed BP into paying massive amounts of money into a private account for a third party to pay out to those affected. Al Capone would have been proud!
Now, I have no problem with BP paying damages- but it is beyond the Constitution for any president to order a private corporation to do with their money. But then again, he's done the same thing over and over again with Big Auto, Big banks and so why not with Big Oil?He's pandering and positioning himself before the left of the left- forcing evil oil to pay up or else. The socialists are happy (Well, actually they are still griping) because BP will have to suspend their dividends for at least a year and not be able to pay out to their shareholders. YAY right?! Uh, well, take it from this peon- there are many other peons who actually own some shares and were depending on them (and other evil wall street type stocks) for their retirements. Oh well that's fine and dandy- now they can depend on the glorious government.
I digress. As I said, progressives really do hate any kind of capitalism- except when they are padding their campaign coffers with their money. Obama and the socialist libs have been raking in millions by Wall Street and big Oil. Why don't they give their money to the poor fishermen? Nah.
One last thought. It's scary to think about all the possibilities the government can do to make this crisis linger on. Now that hurricane season has started, it wouldn't surprise me to believe this administration would allow this crisis to go on hoping that a hurricane will come along. After all, it'd give more fodder to the global warming garbage they are still trying to sell us. It'd give more muscle to cap and trade and more government and bigger government control. Sad to think such things about an American government- but even sadder when America's recent government has given us reason to believe such things.
First of all, I do blame BP. They have a huge mess that shouldn't have, or wouldn't have been if they had have done things right when they started fudging the safety rules. They have a responsibility to their employees to make sure things are done safely and properly. They have a responsibility to their share holders to do business the right way- to make money honestly. They have a responsibility to those independent franchise owners who bear the BP name, whom, by the way are feeling the brunt of much of this by ignorant people boycotting them. These are localized businesses folks- boycotting them hurts only your own local working folks, not the head corporation.
Anyway, BP has much responsibility, and they are and will be paying for their part.
I have to ask though. Who is going to take responsibility in the American government for their huge part in making this the worst environmental disaster to hit the Gulf States?
Long before, when the liberals prevented onshore and interior drilling, most oil companies were moved far off shore where accidents would not be able to be contained as quick as they could be if they were allowed to drill closer. We've seen all the failed attempts to cap this well in deep water, and we know that the first attempt would have worked if they had have been allowed in shallower waters or on land.
Government regulations have been in place for decades- so tell me, if the BP corp has questionable safety records- whose responsibility is it to shut them down until they clean themselves up? Uh, the government perhaps? Why bother having regulations if you don't regulate??!
This present administration did not cause this spill, but thanks to them and their politicking, using this in those famous Rham Emmanuel words "Don't let a good crisis go to waste", well, they ought to be proud of themselves- as they are milking this situation for everything they can. They have made big oil the fall guy- again. These progressives just hate corporations. Well, except when they are getting campaign millions that is. So, most folks who follow the lame stream media religiously all now hate big oil. Isn't that great? The wildlife is dying, but at least people hate corporate fat cats. So. Obama cares- he feels our pain. That's why he's been on this from day one. Sure. Go play another golf game obama, maybe we might just get this cleaned up quicker.
Our southern governors have no one to turn to, so they are tying to do all they can for themselves. Too bad the feds keep getting in the way.Quick run down, and I'll give the link for each one- if you're interested in learning.
People blamed Bush for the Katrina disaster. It's old news and people believe what they want to believe. At least Bush wavered the Jone's Act so to allow help into the coasts of Katina stricken states. Now, with Gov. Jindall who has been begging for help since day one, he has tried to do what he can to take charge. Only problem is, every time he turns around, his efforts are being hemmed in by the feds- the EPA, the Coast Guard and Federal Fish and Wildlife. The man's hands have been tied while he sees his people's lives sacked, and his shorelines trashed.
Obama has been on this from day one- sure. He's had offers from around the world to help with this- but they've been denied because of the Jone's Act. He's refused until now to lift the ban on foreign vessels. Counties who have offered have shaken their heads over the denials of help.
Sure and Obama has made his rounds a couple of times, blaming big oil all the way. He's used this crisis to push his Cap and Trade (Read massive fake global warming energy tax) and like Chicago gangsters of old, muscled his way and strong armed BP into paying massive amounts of money into a private account for a third party to pay out to those affected. Al Capone would have been proud!
Now, I have no problem with BP paying damages- but it is beyond the Constitution for any president to order a private corporation to do with their money. But then again, he's done the same thing over and over again with Big Auto, Big banks and so why not with Big Oil?He's pandering and positioning himself before the left of the left- forcing evil oil to pay up or else. The socialists are happy (Well, actually they are still griping) because BP will have to suspend their dividends for at least a year and not be able to pay out to their shareholders. YAY right?! Uh, well, take it from this peon- there are many other peons who actually own some shares and were depending on them (and other evil wall street type stocks) for their retirements. Oh well that's fine and dandy- now they can depend on the glorious government.
I digress. As I said, progressives really do hate any kind of capitalism- except when they are padding their campaign coffers with their money. Obama and the socialist libs have been raking in millions by Wall Street and big Oil. Why don't they give their money to the poor fishermen? Nah.
One last thought. It's scary to think about all the possibilities the government can do to make this crisis linger on. Now that hurricane season has started, it wouldn't surprise me to believe this administration would allow this crisis to go on hoping that a hurricane will come along. After all, it'd give more fodder to the global warming garbage they are still trying to sell us. It'd give more muscle to cap and trade and more government and bigger government control. Sad to think such things about an American government- but even sadder when America's recent government has given us reason to believe such things.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Scoffers
I read an article from Newsweek online called "Blood in the Water", which was the usual ignorance of "fundamentalist Christian" belief about the end times. Normally, I don't go in for this kind of tripe, but being long a student of Eschatology, I wanted to check it out, even though I knew it would be so off the mark. I wasn't disappointed. The reason I am even writing about it, and giving any lip service to the article at all, is because I've had this on my mind for quite a while, that there is so much confusion, error and lies about the Bible prophecies.
Consider the second part of the header of the piece- "To some Christian fundamentalists, the oil plume in the Gulf of Mexico heralds the apocalypse." Personally, I don't know anyone who believes in the literal prophetic writings who believes this disaster in the Gulf is part of Revelation. I know many of us have a thought that this is judgment on America for a variety of reasons, most recent is the appalling treatment of Israel by the antisemitic administration in the White House. But a part of Revelation which states in 8:8–11, “The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea became blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed … A third of the waters became wormwood, and many died from the water, because it was made bitter.” I seriously doubt this. Besides, as destructive as this disaster is, the Gulf of Mexico can hardly be considered a third of the world's sea!
This author writes, "Broadly speaking, these Christians subscribe to a theology called "premillennial dispensationalism." In this world view, they are warriors on the side of God: a cosmic battle—culminating in apocalypse, judgment, and, finally, the reign of Jesus in “a new heaven and a new earth”—will come soon. The most determined of these believers mine the Book of Revelation for signs that the end is near. (I'd call it studying- not mining) A text of terrifying and mysterious prophesy, Revelation forecasts the apocalypse in coded language; Christians have spent lifetimes trying to break that code by correlating its verses to current events..."
The article then goes on to tell about those who have predicted the end- but not bothering to mention that the Bible itself says that no man, not even the Son knows the hour of the judgment of the Lord. God has His own timing. I know there have been many predictions made over the years, even by some very knowledgeable folks. Fact is, when we do witness things which seem to fit, many Bible believing Christians tend to get excited because we are waiting for the literal return of Christ. Some do make the mistake of predictions, which do a disservice to the Word of the Bible, in that non or new believers get discouraged or become cynical about any of the end time Prophecies.
The part which really struck me though, was later on in the article when the author (and I use the term lightly) attempts to put a political spin on a deeply held conviction.
"But there’s a problem. In the place where American religion and politics intersect, signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left. And because the values of the religious right have mirrored those of the Republican Party—at least before the last presidential election—the "good guys" in the cosmic battle have tended to look like Republicans on the far-right fringe and the “bad guys” like liberal Democrats.....Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans....So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"
One part at a time deserves rebuttal here, and if this woman is supposed to be a so called religion correspondent, she needs care and do a little more homework! First of all, I know that more Bible believing Christians do happen to be on the conservative side of the political aisle- but to put it "signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left" is just plain ignorant.
Yes, there are a lot of issues politically which make Bible believing Christians angry, sad or outspoken, but to say republicans blame democrats for the End of days as written in prophecy is a little too egotistical and ridiculous. To think that someone because of their political affiliation has an "in with God" to where we can say that Revelation is coming because of another political party is offensive. God didn't decide that the world would end because only Democrats or Republicans are all sinful and evil. He is bringing about a new heaven and new earth to complete His plan where His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. All are sinful, no matter who we are. The only thing which separates us is whether one has a personal relationship with Christ, whether one is born in the Spirit and has received the gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. It is not up to me as a conservative to determine that the prophecies are coming to pass because I don't agree with liberals.
Next she presumes to know the mind of God- something which liberals always accuse us "fundies" of doing. She says, "Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans...."
Oh, Ok. I'm sorry I brought this destruction down on the Gulf of Mexico- on beaches including one of the states where I live. Please! If one wants to look at this oil spill as punishment, I would say that again, God curses those who curse His People. With our treatment of Israel during the past few decades, it doesn't surprise me. I have posted in the past the "coincidences" which have occurred whenever our Government has cursed by agenda, the Israeli people. I see this latest as perhaps another coincidence, but keeping in mind that with the Lord there are no such things as coincidences. Could be that this was just a tragic accident. There are such things you know. And as for greed, greed and corruption fall in any political party, social status or society. Greed, I assume this author is speaking of wealth? One can be wealthy, and give more to society than can one who has very little. Yes, there are some who are wealthy yet greedy. For a little sample of those, look at my last post on charitable giving.
As for the author's last snide comment, "So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"Again, is a rediculous comment, uttered only because she, like so many these days have a disrespect not of Bible believing Christians, but of the Bible- God's Word. The prophecies of the end of times has nothing to do with political sides. Again, the judgements of the end of times as described not only in the Book of Revelation, but throughout the Bible, are on those who refuse to recieve Christ. Plain and simple. I know there are millions who take issue of this and would call me, and everyone else who believes this every name they could think of- intolerant, inclusive, sexist, xenophobic, racist (huh?!) and ignorant. Go ahead, we're used to it. But beware, it is not us who you are calling names- it is Christ Jesus, because after all it is He who says these things.
Ok, so, I knew the comment section of the article would be as interesting and predictable as the article. Here is a sampling:
"You godbots have been predicted the end for 2000 years now. Grow up."
"For any fundies who really believe this nonsense, I have a question. Can I have your car since you won't be needing it after the rapture?"
"As Abraham Maslow said in 1966, "It is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail." If the focus of your consciousness is Revelations, then most of what you see will fit your interpretation - or you'll modify your interpretation to make it fit. How else would we see repetitions of the same predictions through history? People like drama, especially fundamentalists."
"I wonder when the world doesn't end, will these folks who are so sure it's going to, acknowledge they were wrong? I seriously doubt it. You'd think being wrong about something like that would have an effect on people's faith, but it doesn't really seem to. They just move on to the next "sign" and make up a new doomsday scenario, forgetting that they are always, inevitably, wrong. It is truly amazing that 60+ million Americans are completely delusional."
So, we are infants who like drama, and delusional doomsayers who willingly give up our cars at the rapture. See, I can be as sarcastic. Actually, it makes me sad. The whole thing, and so much of the attitudes of millions of unbelievers make me sad. They see, but are blind. They have heard but shut their ears. They, through pride or fear or anger refuse to acknowlege there is someone bigger than this life, that there is a greater purpose than this life. I'm not saying this out of spite or meanness- I say this because we have all put ourselves first- or our lives including our families, without acknowleging the One who created us. It is just that some of us have put our focus on Him now that we have found Him.
Moving on. You know what? I have had a similar discussion with family and friends who claim that every generation has believed they would be the generation that Jesus told about and that's true. Every generation has seen the decay and godlessness spread. Doesn't mean anything really though- there has been horrid rampant sin since the days of Noah. However, the point I make with everyone I discuss this topic with, is that no other generation had the rebirth of Israel. That, my dear ones is the clincher. Now, I am not going to predict that Jesus is coming this week, next month or 2 years from now. I have no idea when He is coming. All I know is that He will be coming soon. He gave us specific signs to look for, and those signs are now. Begining with the fig tree blooming- Israel reborn as a nation, the signs have been pointing along the way for the past 60 years. I am not going to go through them all here, as I have outlined them on Understanding the Bible Prophecies. There is a lot happening right now, as all news again and still is on Israel. There are some major things happening lately in which prophecies are coming to pass. Read Isaiah, Read Ezekiel, and you will see today's news headlines.
I do want to make a couple of points in wrapping this up however.
I have been wondering why I have such a fascination with Bible prophecy. It finally came to me. Even though I am reading the Whole Word, and can and try to find ways to apply it to my daily life, the prophecies are now. They are alive now. I look at the things happpening in the world and know that even though previous generations believed they were the ones, I know by history and present happenings that there were no way near the amount of things occurring as they are now which have already been told about in prophecy.
When I read the Word of Jesus, I see specifically the phrases: not yet..begining...then.... These from the Gospel accounts of what Jesus told His disciples when they asked for the signs of the times. A few of the commentors on the article had it right when they pointed out that the Revelation verse about the water turning to blood will be one of the judgments passed after the rapture. They will happen after certain other things come to pass, which have not passed yet. If people read the whole Word, they would not attempt to be so trite in writing such an article.
My last thought. I watched the movie 2012 this past weekend. First hollywood movie I've seen in quite some time. While I found it "hollywoodish" and I know the makers of the movie think Christians are nutjobs, after all he had great glee in the destruction of Christian symbols- the fact is, some day there will be horrible disasters come upon the world, something no hollywood producer could even conceive of. People think folks like myself are nuts because I believe what the Bible says. No, I don't believe the world will end on Dec. 31, 2012. I do know the world as we know it is coming to an end though. Jesus Christ will be coming soon- first for His own, then as the King of Kings , to make things right once and for all.
It is my sincere hope and prayer that instead of mocking, read the book. Read for yourself, with an open mind. After all, most claim Bible believing Christians are those with the small minds. Read the Gospels, read Ezekiel, Daniel, Psalm 83. Read Revelation. Ask for understanding. If you are not a believer, ask anyway- God, if you are real, please help me to understand and see. What can it hurt except your pride?
Jesus is coming. Some day every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess He is Lord. It would be much better for those to confess now willingly, instead of later.
Consider the second part of the header of the piece- "To some Christian fundamentalists, the oil plume in the Gulf of Mexico heralds the apocalypse." Personally, I don't know anyone who believes in the literal prophetic writings who believes this disaster in the Gulf is part of Revelation. I know many of us have a thought that this is judgment on America for a variety of reasons, most recent is the appalling treatment of Israel by the antisemitic administration in the White House. But a part of Revelation which states in 8:8–11, “The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea became blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed … A third of the waters became wormwood, and many died from the water, because it was made bitter.” I seriously doubt this. Besides, as destructive as this disaster is, the Gulf of Mexico can hardly be considered a third of the world's sea!
This author writes, "Broadly speaking, these Christians subscribe to a theology called "premillennial dispensationalism." In this world view, they are warriors on the side of God: a cosmic battle—culminating in apocalypse, judgment, and, finally, the reign of Jesus in “a new heaven and a new earth”—will come soon. The most determined of these believers mine the Book of Revelation for signs that the end is near. (I'd call it studying- not mining) A text of terrifying and mysterious prophesy, Revelation forecasts the apocalypse in coded language; Christians have spent lifetimes trying to break that code by correlating its verses to current events..."
The article then goes on to tell about those who have predicted the end- but not bothering to mention that the Bible itself says that no man, not even the Son knows the hour of the judgment of the Lord. God has His own timing. I know there have been many predictions made over the years, even by some very knowledgeable folks. Fact is, when we do witness things which seem to fit, many Bible believing Christians tend to get excited because we are waiting for the literal return of Christ. Some do make the mistake of predictions, which do a disservice to the Word of the Bible, in that non or new believers get discouraged or become cynical about any of the end time Prophecies.
The part which really struck me though, was later on in the article when the author (and I use the term lightly) attempts to put a political spin on a deeply held conviction.
"But there’s a problem. In the place where American religion and politics intersect, signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left. And because the values of the religious right have mirrored those of the Republican Party—at least before the last presidential election—the "good guys" in the cosmic battle have tended to look like Republicans on the far-right fringe and the “bad guys” like liberal Democrats.....Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans....So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"
One part at a time deserves rebuttal here, and if this woman is supposed to be a so called religion correspondent, she needs care and do a little more homework! First of all, I know that more Bible believing Christians do happen to be on the conservative side of the political aisle- but to put it "signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left" is just plain ignorant.
Yes, there are a lot of issues politically which make Bible believing Christians angry, sad or outspoken, but to say republicans blame democrats for the End of days as written in prophecy is a little too egotistical and ridiculous. To think that someone because of their political affiliation has an "in with God" to where we can say that Revelation is coming because of another political party is offensive. God didn't decide that the world would end because only Democrats or Republicans are all sinful and evil. He is bringing about a new heaven and new earth to complete His plan where His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. All are sinful, no matter who we are. The only thing which separates us is whether one has a personal relationship with Christ, whether one is born in the Spirit and has received the gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. It is not up to me as a conservative to determine that the prophecies are coming to pass because I don't agree with liberals.
Next she presumes to know the mind of God- something which liberals always accuse us "fundies" of doing. She says, "Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans...."
Oh, Ok. I'm sorry I brought this destruction down on the Gulf of Mexico- on beaches including one of the states where I live. Please! If one wants to look at this oil spill as punishment, I would say that again, God curses those who curse His People. With our treatment of Israel during the past few decades, it doesn't surprise me. I have posted in the past the "coincidences" which have occurred whenever our Government has cursed by agenda, the Israeli people. I see this latest as perhaps another coincidence, but keeping in mind that with the Lord there are no such things as coincidences. Could be that this was just a tragic accident. There are such things you know. And as for greed, greed and corruption fall in any political party, social status or society. Greed, I assume this author is speaking of wealth? One can be wealthy, and give more to society than can one who has very little. Yes, there are some who are wealthy yet greedy. For a little sample of those, look at my last post on charitable giving.
As for the author's last snide comment, "So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"Again, is a rediculous comment, uttered only because she, like so many these days have a disrespect not of Bible believing Christians, but of the Bible- God's Word. The prophecies of the end of times has nothing to do with political sides. Again, the judgements of the end of times as described not only in the Book of Revelation, but throughout the Bible, are on those who refuse to recieve Christ. Plain and simple. I know there are millions who take issue of this and would call me, and everyone else who believes this every name they could think of- intolerant, inclusive, sexist, xenophobic, racist (huh?!) and ignorant. Go ahead, we're used to it. But beware, it is not us who you are calling names- it is Christ Jesus, because after all it is He who says these things.
Ok, so, I knew the comment section of the article would be as interesting and predictable as the article. Here is a sampling:
"You godbots have been predicted the end for 2000 years now. Grow up."
"For any fundies who really believe this nonsense, I have a question. Can I have your car since you won't be needing it after the rapture?"
"As Abraham Maslow said in 1966, "It is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail." If the focus of your consciousness is Revelations, then most of what you see will fit your interpretation - or you'll modify your interpretation to make it fit. How else would we see repetitions of the same predictions through history? People like drama, especially fundamentalists."
"I wonder when the world doesn't end, will these folks who are so sure it's going to, acknowledge they were wrong? I seriously doubt it. You'd think being wrong about something like that would have an effect on people's faith, but it doesn't really seem to. They just move on to the next "sign" and make up a new doomsday scenario, forgetting that they are always, inevitably, wrong. It is truly amazing that 60+ million Americans are completely delusional."
So, we are infants who like drama, and delusional doomsayers who willingly give up our cars at the rapture. See, I can be as sarcastic. Actually, it makes me sad. The whole thing, and so much of the attitudes of millions of unbelievers make me sad. They see, but are blind. They have heard but shut their ears. They, through pride or fear or anger refuse to acknowlege there is someone bigger than this life, that there is a greater purpose than this life. I'm not saying this out of spite or meanness- I say this because we have all put ourselves first- or our lives including our families, without acknowleging the One who created us. It is just that some of us have put our focus on Him now that we have found Him.
Moving on. You know what? I have had a similar discussion with family and friends who claim that every generation has believed they would be the generation that Jesus told about and that's true. Every generation has seen the decay and godlessness spread. Doesn't mean anything really though- there has been horrid rampant sin since the days of Noah. However, the point I make with everyone I discuss this topic with, is that no other generation had the rebirth of Israel. That, my dear ones is the clincher. Now, I am not going to predict that Jesus is coming this week, next month or 2 years from now. I have no idea when He is coming. All I know is that He will be coming soon. He gave us specific signs to look for, and those signs are now. Begining with the fig tree blooming- Israel reborn as a nation, the signs have been pointing along the way for the past 60 years. I am not going to go through them all here, as I have outlined them on Understanding the Bible Prophecies. There is a lot happening right now, as all news again and still is on Israel. There are some major things happening lately in which prophecies are coming to pass. Read Isaiah, Read Ezekiel, and you will see today's news headlines.
I do want to make a couple of points in wrapping this up however.
I have been wondering why I have such a fascination with Bible prophecy. It finally came to me. Even though I am reading the Whole Word, and can and try to find ways to apply it to my daily life, the prophecies are now. They are alive now. I look at the things happpening in the world and know that even though previous generations believed they were the ones, I know by history and present happenings that there were no way near the amount of things occurring as they are now which have already been told about in prophecy.
When I read the Word of Jesus, I see specifically the phrases: not yet..begining...then.... These from the Gospel accounts of what Jesus told His disciples when they asked for the signs of the times. A few of the commentors on the article had it right when they pointed out that the Revelation verse about the water turning to blood will be one of the judgments passed after the rapture. They will happen after certain other things come to pass, which have not passed yet. If people read the whole Word, they would not attempt to be so trite in writing such an article.
My last thought. I watched the movie 2012 this past weekend. First hollywood movie I've seen in quite some time. While I found it "hollywoodish" and I know the makers of the movie think Christians are nutjobs, after all he had great glee in the destruction of Christian symbols- the fact is, some day there will be horrible disasters come upon the world, something no hollywood producer could even conceive of. People think folks like myself are nuts because I believe what the Bible says. No, I don't believe the world will end on Dec. 31, 2012. I do know the world as we know it is coming to an end though. Jesus Christ will be coming soon- first for His own, then as the King of Kings , to make things right once and for all.
It is my sincere hope and prayer that instead of mocking, read the book. Read for yourself, with an open mind. After all, most claim Bible believing Christians are those with the small minds. Read the Gospels, read Ezekiel, Daniel, Psalm 83. Read Revelation. Ask for understanding. If you are not a believer, ask anyway- God, if you are real, please help me to understand and see. What can it hurt except your pride?
Jesus is coming. Some day every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess He is Lord. It would be much better for those to confess now willingly, instead of later.
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