We are in an unprecedented era of technology and change and our individual ability to affect the lives of millions. It is our duty and responsibility to share our lives and our personal observations of the world with those who freely search your opinion.
Recent developments in Ukraine leaves the world recognizing a leaderless civilization except those of tyrant variety. No one seems to know what to do. Those that know what to do will not do it. The Baltic States are going to rot from within. What protects them? Perhaps this video shows one avenue of protection.
I don't mean to make like of the situation but often the answer is right in front of us. Perhaps not a cross, stake or silver bullets but it can be as simple as integrity and courage. In addition, maybe it wouldn't be so "out of line" to view world tyrants as the Dracula depicted above. Oftentimes we trivialize characters we deal with. In my opinion we shouldn't judge the person as a whole, but when there is a specific display of wickedness we should lead to vanquish such example.
A different duck dynasty encroaches on the United States. Springing from the lake area of the Avatiu Swamp on Rarotonga Island in the South Pacific, these ducks gained intelligence from the mutations of being exposed to radioactive waste emanating from the Nigerian Dwarf goat. They now bear down in flight on the west coast of the United States in search of nuclear reactors to quench their thirsts. Already these skewed Muscovy Ducks have overrun and disabled the nuclear vessel USS Kermit in the South Pacific in order to pacify their radioactive tastes. What does the future hold for mankind?
Beware! Early reports say that once satisfied these dangerous ducks then seek out grape vineyards. For some strange reason they tend to ask directions at lemonade stand to these vineyards. Be suspicious of their militant apparel and friendly persona. The indication is that this new species has a dark agenda for all mankind. What could it be and where can we hide?
Noticing one of these unfriendly Anatidaes is quite apparent. Aside from the wearing of military BDUs they all have pink within green within purple and within again pink eyes. Also a legacy of sick and demented mad minds they all fly in McDonald's golden arches formation to the disturbing sounds of Clay Aiken. These are all among the most distinguishing characteristics of this new breed.
If you come in close proximity to this species you are advised not to engage in dialogue with it. Instead call your local taxidermy for quote prices on epic duck displays on your trophy wall.
Chocolate is the ambrosia of the gods! This advertisement depicts my weakness. Though a weakness it is also the source of great strength and skill to know the worthiness of chocolate. Don't mess with my chocolate! That's sacred territory.
Star Trek has captivated the world with it's sci-fi adventures and special affects. It has also grasped the audience spirit with it's ongoing human relationship factor. It is this factor which I believe outweighs the "dazzle" that our eyes see. What lessons can be learned? Are there things in the Star Trek genre that the modern world can learn from? In an interview with Leonard Nimoy, also known as Star Trek's original "Spock", he explains the genesis of the iconic Vulcan greeting "Live long and prosper" and opens up a field of opportunity for all of us to learn.
The purpose of this posting is to bring to bear our sincerity when we encounter each other. Without malice and insidious agendas, how much greater and peaceful would our species be if we but upheld the absolute respect of another, right from the onset. I know it seems silly associating simple human nature with a Hollywood production - but why not! Spock is portrayed as stalwart and strong both in mind and body. Yet in his final greetings he always expresses gentleness and sincerity. Consider the spiritual nature of the setting when such respect is shown. I'm not talking about the Hollywood setting, but rather the real life setting of inviting a spirit of goodwill among a group of people. This spirit of goodwill cannot be truly felt with anger or enmity displayed but only by goodness and kindness.
According to a website associated with the John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies the isolated nation of North Korea has launched two new helicopter frigates. North Korea has always been viewed with extreme suspicion even prior to the Korean War which ended without a formal peace treaty. All nations in its growth and progress aims a strong military as a primary goal for the protection of its people. As a country North Korea has the right to pursue their own protection. However, the underlying notion is that it may be a prelude action against South Korea or area allies of the United States.
What does all this have to do with the subject I started with? I ask, what would the state of the region be if we all applied a little faith in humanity, and always greeted our friends and foes with absolute and genuine respect and dignity? Even if we approach an individual whose intentions are set on genocide and subterfuge, our own entrance to the scene can have a profound influence on the mind and will of that person. Like ripples in the water our actions have a cascading affect. Who knows, maybe your genuineness you display softens the back of his mind just enough to prevent the hardships otherwise inflicted on a person or entire people.
Vladimir Putin has engaged Russia in a frenzy land grab. He has clutched hold of the Crimean Peninsula in Ukraine and continues to break down order in Eastern Ukraine for eventual inclusion into the Russian Empire. The mindset of Putin is that of a child in a class with the only big Tonka toy. He will not let go and gains notoriety for having it. Imagine the difference the entire geographical area would be if world leaders were able to greet this man with the authenticity of preparedness, resource, strong will, compassion and above all a spirit of resolution to act on behalf of the oppressed. I guarantee that if a tyrant meets someone they feel is a match for them then most of them would have their hurtful appetites vanquished. It's the most effective presentation of good over evil.
We can learn a lot from the portrayal of Spock played by Leonard Nimoy. He also had a manifestation in the eyes of all he greets as one with an unwavering ability and resource to act. I believe that world leaders today have lost this bona fide spirit of resolution. Even and especially in the United States. I believe this infection is quickly spreading down into the very lives of every individual on earth. If we don't stand up and have faith in the foundation our feet are on when we start a relationship or commence an encounter then we are doomed to failure.
We have vast numbers of good and honest people populating all the continents of the world. If honest and true leaders don't take on the responsibility of morality and strength in the face of the agents of adversity, then the futures of the good and honest will become strained. May we all take in a little Hollywood Star Trek and learn the lessons from a little Jewish gesture of "live long and prosper."
In a stunning upset Kiev in Ukraine reports massive chaos as Russian officials spark an epic revolt in Luhansk. Consisting of nearly half a million people, the infrastructure of Luhansk suffered measurable loss of basic utility and social services as pro-Russian forces storm government and military buildings there. Media and other outlets are unable to gain access into Luhansk at this time. All eyewitness accounts come from refugees fleeing Luhansk and the prime outlet for news coming from Kiev. With capitalist business establishments burning Moscow is quick to condemn Ukraine forces with the help of the West for the unrest. The response has been that Putin is playing on the sympathies of the global scene.
In Kiev, Ukraine officials continue to attempt raids in an effort to regain control of government buildings that have been seized by pro-Russian radicals. It is apparent that the success of these rebels are being supplied monetarily and being armed through clandestine operations from Russia though no confirmed proof is available at this time. Russia's Vladimir Putin openly expresses "heartfelt" sympathy for pro-Russian separatists citing oppression from Ukraine government officials. With one hand he hails to the world as a savior. So it seems to many that with the other hand in the mire he is masterminding the unraveling the sovereignty and hope of freedom for Ukraine from within the country. Again, no confirmed proof.
Closer to the Russian border there are reports of dissension among the ranks in the 1,000,000 strong Kharkiv in the Slobozhanshchyna region of Ukraine. Utilities from Russian sources are rationed at rates 65% higher than what they were just two months ago. All accounts point to a deliberate attempt to isolate this vibrant stronghold of power for whomever controls it. Will it be the people of Ukraine or Russia?
There is a curious growing divide even among the Baltic States. Reports come in from Latvia, Estonia and also Lithuania of a shift in public sentiment toward Russia. A "meltdown of liberty" cites one official off the record in Poland as he describes the bully state of Russia over all the former republics of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. If true, this would make seizure of these states quick, easy and at the most minimum of casualties due to an increased lack of initiative. An important question is whether or not this "lack of initiative" is purposely induced by insidious designs or truly the will of the people?
The above report is false................... for the most part. However, ludicrous it may seem it is a valid scenario of upcoming events as Russia continues patiently to unravel the fabric of freedom in the former Russian Republics. The above reports are true current accounts laced with possibilities which have not happened - yet. Ukraine is a rich resource of natural resources as well as key access to various ports. Can anyone in their right mind truly doubt the reach Vladimir Putin is willing to exercise in order to accomplish his goal?
As I retire for the evening my mind reflects on my shameful imperfections. In the solitude of my thoughts I take hope in the greatest news in the world - He lives! He lives who once was dead! Once in agony - but now resurrected and perfected. The greatest Easter message is that He lives!
We should be in awe at the grandeur of the design of God. Our finite minds can scarcely comprehend even a fraction of the scope and purpose of the Plan of Salvation. On this Easter I would like to express a few thoughts regarding this Plan and how Jesus Christ is the central figure making it possible for us to endure, overcome and be exalted according to our deeds and motives.
I remember a few years back when another denomination invited me, as a representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to their Easter service taking place on a Saturday evening. It was an interesting service to say the least. I was intrigued, interested and respectful though the service was full of doctrines which completely countered my own beliefs and preachings.
For instance, after the service I had the opportunity to speak with many members of their congregation. It didn't take long before we were hitting each other's walls of doctrine. Most of the discussion centered on Adam and Eve. I was baffled at how two faiths could be so 180 degrees apart. They vehemently condemned Adam and Eve for their partaking of the fruit of the tree of knowledge. They abased them in sin and decay. I, however, explained that they had pure knowledge and knew that in order for the human family to take place according to the Plan of God they would need to transgress the law (there is a difference between open sin and transgressing a law). That is just one example, but it does illustrate that I believe the process is designed according to a plan that was laid out in the heavens before and during the very foundations of the earth were laid.
Jesus Christ is being legislated out of our sights through the pressures of minority groups under adverse influences. I often ponder the agony they would feel if they only knew that they were very much aware in yonder heavens of what the Christ was doing for them. Imagine a God being mortally stripped of covers and whipped with beaded straps. Imagine the eternal nature of His love for us as He endured the thorns being purposely pressed into His flesh and skull. Reach into your comprehension as He was prodded and forced to drag His own demeaning yoke of crucifixion to Calvary. Also known as Golgotha, extend your feelings as Jesus Christ climbed that hill with the place of His last breath in sight. Now imagine that you witnessed this event with absolute solemnity and humility, yet in gratitude for that sacrifice on your behalf you recognized the magnificent potential of man. Not one mortal man would ever shun Jesus Christ as is commonly done today if the veil was lifted and their eyes opened up in remembrance of that great event.
The veil over knowledge is in place to allow the liberty and freedom of choice. It is that essential part of the Plan - that man may fully achieve his potential. It is every bit as essential as the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Can we scarcely comprehend?
Adam and Eve fell that man may be. That man may know joy and sorrow just as our Heavenly Father. That man may acknowledge God and love Him. That man may learn and develop his body and mind for the benefit of his own receipt of the Spirit, and for the greater benefit and progress of mankind. That man may bring forth a family with a posterity to carry on the torch of righteousness. That man may choose light or dark.
Mankind was fallen, yet in the midst of sure darkness a Savior was provided - even Jesus the Christ. All of us bearing flesh were beforehand present as we sustained Jesus Christ according to the Plan of Salvation - to bridge that chasm between mortality and the presence of God the Eternal Father we yearn to enjoy. Jesus Christ is Jehovah, Adonai, the Unchangeable One, the God of Israel and the great I AM.
By ourselves we could not fulfill the requirements to appease our fallen nature. Yet to fulfill our design and be magnified in the embracing presence of the Father, only a perfect Son in the express image of the Father could successfully take upon Himself the price of sin and for all of nature's fallen state. Take those sins of yours that trouble you so and multiply that into the billions - and that into billions for the fallen state of the earth itself. We cannot comprehend but only a God could sustain the yoke of man.
We must always observe and recognize His eternal Atonement for us. We must understand that he died in a heinous and undignified manner upon a cross. We must tremble that with every nail piercing his hands, wrists and feet we are indebted all the more to His purchased price of us. With every drop of His spilled innocent blood mankind is required all the more to sacrifice his own pride, vanity and life if necessary to make recompense for forgiveness.
In my finite limited way I am so grateful that He would consider someone as lowly as I - that He would openly sacrifice Himself for my salvation.
I try to structure my every thought and action to the will of the Spirit. I believe that is part of our debt to Him. I believe that we are not to seek comfort but rather the uncomfortable. We are to take extra courage in the face of adverse conditions. We are to faithfully step outside our comfort zone in order to qualify into wider fields of opportunity and understanding. We should actively identify evil where it thrives and vanquish it with power and authority. We are to always avoid the presence of evil in our lives lest we become tempted. These are but a few simple acts we can do to acknowledge the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
May the God of Heaven and earth find favor in our fallen state. May He provide and protect the banner of true liberty and freedom. May He empower the able with courage to uplift the oppressed and needy. May we find unity as we prepare the earth for His triumphal return.
