It's kinda sad that the None of the Above vote for my precinct still results in 100% Republicans. *shrug* But I'm doing it anyways... because NOT ONE of the CongressCritters serving right now is worth their weight in dog pooh.
This is one Republican (albiet stuck in Democrat *HELL*) that completely agrees with you.
But I'm goin' down to Costco tomorrow and getting that gigantic bottle of French Vodka to sip on all night. It's gonna be a long one watching from the West Coast.
I'm smart, and I haven't left it. Not after 15 years of devotion, love, hate, abuse, 90 hour weeks, and oh yeah, the inevitable sex harassment. It's amazing that I haven't gone postal yet, in fact... though some have feared I would. Well, maybe what my husband says is true... I'm so smart, I'm dumb.
The fact of the matter is, I don't know what else I would ever do. And I'm not going anywhere.... my life IS IT, and I love it. I left my hometown in Colorado over it, and who knows if I can ever return, as there's no jobs there to fulfill that particular need. *sigh*
Nope... that's why I've stuck it out through all the rough patches and stayed in it. Nothing ever could fulfill me with the love of my career as fixing broken shit. Especially if I'm the one that DIDN'T break it!:D
Thank you for posting this!!!! I wish I had mod points, because this is gonna get buried. Nice to see there's *some* sense still out here in/. land. I'm beginning to wonder. The ACLU has done more to destroy American Liberty than they *ever* tried to save. *sniffle* Sometimes I'm glad my grandparents are dead.
There is no such sect. There are people who call themselves Salafi, means following first 3 generations of Muslims.
Thank you for clarifying that. You must realize that what I know is limited to working closely with Pakistanis and Saudis, as well as having two dear friends, one Iraqi and the other Iranian.:) Not to mention, it is all very tainted by Western Media, as I'm sure you know.
There are two questions. First, who is practicing Islam correctly, those who "adapt" the commandments of The Creator to "modern times", "environment", "West" or those who stick to those commandments no matter what?
Well, there you are... that is a very interesting way to look at it. I would say that those who live by the teachings of Mohammed and the will of The Creator are looked upon as practicing Islam correctly, where those that adapt the system to their own world are more what we call, fallen. Does that make sense? Like, we have Jack Jews and Jack Mormons, those that were raised to be faithful and pious, but have left their church and background - but still come back for holidays.
Second, what is extreme is subjective, right? I find it quite extreme to expose a human body Western men and women do, I find it quite extreme that Westerners get drunk in pubs and bars and expose their drunkedness to the public, but I am ok with that. I understand why they behave like that, and I am living in a Western society. Now understand that countries like Afghanistan have their own notion of what is extreme, what is decent, what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. So your statements is actually translate to "I saddened to see how MUCH more different it is from Western culture than the Islam that my Muslim friends practice."
Absolutely. I can understand that. And honestly, I don't disagree with your viewpoint. It seems that there is a lot of 'face' in your culture, um... like other Asian cultures, and keeping that face is very important. It seems that a lot of that went out with the times here in the West, and no one tries to be their very best anymore. You are accurate in your understanding... and I continue to be amazed with how crass some cultures have become, including American. It's the "I Don't Care What Anyone Thinks, I'll Do What I Want" attitude taken to the limits.
Pagans associating The Creators with any kind of partners, helpers, etc. are indeed strongly condemned in Islam, because that is the greatest and only unforgiveble sin. The person who dies in the state of Shirk (associating partners with The Creator) will be hold in Hell eternally, while all other sinners will eventually will become purified in Hell and saved from the Hellfire.
I can completely understand that, and I would have massive issue with anyone that did that. There are those that choose to mix Christianity and Magick, and it ends up creating adversity for them, because of the opposition between the faiths. I am offended by that, because I *DO* respect the World Religions for all their history and teachings, but choose my own path, handed down by my forefathers. By the same token, seeking conversions (I don't know how else to put it) or pushing one's faith or ideology upon someone who is against it, I also find hateful and intolerant. Sure, I will share knowledge and information with those who seek it of me, but never would I force someone to try to believe as I do. I think that is where a lot of misconceptions come from about Islamic Faith. For years it has been taught in the West that Islam teaches that all must be converted to the faith or die. All the while, they deny that the Christian and Catholic Churches committed the VERY SAME ACTS OF EVIL FOR CENTURIES! (Can you tell I have a real problem with hypocrisy?)
What is "free"? As a human you have a free will granted by Creator as anyone else. "White" or "black" has no relevance in Islam, Prophet, sal Allahu 'alaihi wa-sallam, said it in his famous Farewell Cermon
I'm with ya. That's why I'm about to bap my husband in the nose for pushing me to live outside the US. He thinks I need the 'exposure'. But, I love this country. My ancestors have fought and died for it for 400 years. Why the hell would I leave? I want my kids born here, and I'm almost too old to even have them! Sure, I'd love to go live in Australia, but not at the expense of losing my citizenship and way of life. I've spent 15 years fighting for what I've got... I don't want to risk it.
Not to mention the fact that I'm terribly political outspoken, active, and reactive. I couldn't send a hundred faxes and letters a week if I expatriate. No way. What right would I have to tell people how to run a country I don't live in? But Gods Help Us All if Nancy Pelosi becomes Speaker of the House or Harry Reid the Majority Speaker. {shudder}
I refuse to worship any "God" who would cast its own creations in to an eternity of suffering simply because it didn't worship "Him".
And that would get you cast into that eternity of suffering anyways. So... might as well convert, right?:P:P:P That's a JOKE! I'm the same way. EXACTLY. Christianity and Islam are but both creations of MAN, thereby inherently flawed as such. I'll stick to my old ancient ways of spirituality, predating these creations by eons.:)
No offense meant, as I really do respect your human rights to believe what you wish. But here in America, I also have that right and the right to speak my mind. And ya know, you just confirmed everything I have learned about the Wahabbi Sect of Muslim, and am saddened to see how MUCH more extreme it is than the Islam that my Muslim friends practice. INCLUDING those who are Shia. *wow*
I won't say it sounds like you're a whack-job, as I'm sure that is my own narrow-minded prejudices talking. But I do praise you on your moderate tone, and I think that is something that is SORELY lacking in the Muslim world. Sometimes I wonder if the Madrasas are any better than the brain-washing Scientology Cult. I get the feeling that some of the misplacement that your brethren feel is because of the 13th Century Values trying to cut it in the 21st Century World.
One question I would ask, as I believe I know the stance that they have on Christians... What about Pagans? I'm a witch, you see...Not Wiccan, no, but a witch nonetheless, from the oldest of Irish times, my knowledge passed from my forefathers to me, and been rekindled through modern day knowledge and communication. Does that make me the ultimate infidel? Honestly... I'm just asking out of curiousity. Not that I blame them for their stance on the Christians... I've got way more than my share of issues with them. But that said, what about being a FREE WHITE WOMAN, making all the money, supporting the home and NOT having children yet at the age of 33? Hey... I've always been the black sheep, why not some more.
Finally, I want to thank you for speaking out on this forum. I know far too many that dwell in silence and isolation, and I half thing that is what drives them mad and to do the things that they do. I have no doubt that Mohammed was a wonderful prophet just as Jesus was... but they were merely good men who wanted good things for their people. We have no evidence that there IS a God, let alone God-creatures come to Earth. So that's a paradox for me, you see. I just think that the entire world needs a whole lot more love and tolerance, and a lot less hate and violence. Don't we all, though?
And as time goes on, you will find you place in this world, the place you are destined to live in peace and harmony with man. I firmly believe that we *all* have that destiny as human beings.
We're working on it. My husband has been trying to convince me for 4 months, and I'm just now starting to warm up to the idea. He's been in contact with immigration officials, and with my skills, Pffffffffft, it ain't a problem.:) My kiwi friend says, go, go now while you have a chance. *sigh* I just don't know. I don't *do* water. I love nature and animals more than humans though. I have no family keeping me here in the US, and no ties at all.
So, we've been watching as many documentaries as possible. The latest Discovery Atlas one was incredible in high-definition, and I am so in love with Mowry (sp) people. BUT. I'm a boob. A big fat Rebel Redneck (ok, no, I'm not fat, I'm 5'11" and 150 pounds of solid girl curves in all the perfect spots... and a redhead). I like NASCAR, Bull Riding and NFL, hate basketball and baseball. Both of my parents were from the South though, and tried to impose on me their redneck ways. I've done pretty good to rise above them, and am certainly NOT a racist, and love other cultures.
I fear that the rising religious animosity in this country is going to destroy it, and I don't like the way things have been trending so much towards hate and intolerance. And this is from a Conservative Republican!!!!!! However, I am not a Christian or an Evangelical, but a pagan in all the best ways. I also have health problems such as asthma and chronic severe pain that I am worried about treating. After 5 years of severe pain and no treatments working, they prescribed me marijuana! I understand that that is verbotten Down Under, as are firearms, and there goes my collection. SO *blah*. I've got a lot to work through, yet.
But I'm doing my research, beginning to poke around some career sites to see if I could even get a job doing Disaster Recovery/Backups/Systems Engineering. It will take time, and time is something I've got. I'm not too worried about the remainder of the Shrub's presidency, but I'm terrified of what is to come after. I told D that we would do preparation and investigation, and pending the outcome of the 2008 election, GO. Cuz I tell ya what, if Hillary gets elected, I'm so fucking gone, it's not even funny. Either that, or I'm hiding in a cave until she self-destructs. ESPECIALLY if she puts Bill on the VP ticket, which has been discussed by several US Papers. It's possible, but not likely. We'll see how it goes.
Mostly though... I've never been out of the US (Canada & Mexico don't count), but was born in Guam. I could use some world travel exposure here at 33 years old. But...that begs the question. I'm getting ready to have kids in the next 2 years. I have to throw that into play too. *sigh* It's a lot for a girl from my background of poverty to work out. We'll have to see how it goes.
My husband and I have kicked around going Down Under for a while, and my friend, a kiwi, tells me to go if I have the chance. I've been researching it for a while now, and well, every since I saw the Discovery Atlas program on it, I'm *so* excited. But... of course, it may take a while. A permanent decision is pending the 2008 elections. If Hillary gets elected, I'm so gone, I don't care where I gotta go.
Um, did you not take American History in class? Or have access to the History Channel? Holy Cow. And good fucking luck trying to catch a B52 flying at 68,000 feet that never sets down.
Source of the article are ANARCHISTS that would seek to end all government. Get a clue, know your backgrounds and research your facts before posting this tripe.
And what YOU are missing is that each and every one of those police actions were *AFTER* people DIED. How preventative is that?????? I'm sorry, but I'd rather live than die because some cop can't spit out his fucking donut in time to save my life. Our safety (as well as our LIBERTY) is each individual's responsibility, NOT LAW ENFORCEMENT. The sooner people learn this, the sooner we might just get ahead of these fuckers.
No, you are not, and I think it's tragic and sad that they modded your post Funny.
I tell ya, I am so sick of the shit the liveral leftist pinko commie bastards are pulling right now that I want to scream my head off, and believe me, I *have* been. No matter that this has PROVEN to stop terror attacks and capture terrorists, they still wonk on about it with their lies and deceptions and half-truths, all so full of hatred it would make Voldemort embarassed. And to top it off with a sex scandal because those of us who are smart enough to know the truth KNOW better, and can see right through it (not that the Foley scandal ISN'T disgusting, but it's being handled with grace and class that repeat-sex-offending Democrats have NEVER had and reelected them 5,6,7 times. And sadly enough, because that's the only way to get at the Christian RightWing Fundies... they'll get the results they want. Truth, dignity, and respect be damned. Let alone common decency.
I'm terrified for the future of our country, especially if the fucking whiny baby-boomers take over our governments. They don't know anything BUT whining, quitting, and self-serving. They have never cared about the next generation, or the future - else we wouldn't *BE* going through this today.
I do have to say I have not been happy with *everything* George W. Bush has done, and I disagree with him heavily on immigration and globalization, and even some homeland security matters. But I support him for the sole reason that he is fighting the War on Terror, and winning, though it may seem differently because of the liberal media bias. Again...this is not new, and cost us Vietnam. If that is one lesson that our leadership *ever* learnt about that shithole, I would think it's to IGNORE THE MEDIA! There's a REASON that no terror attacks have killed American Citizens on US Soil, and if other countries thought a little bit more about what we have done, perhaps there would not have been a Madrid, a Bali, a London, or even a Mumbai. But no, thousands have continued to die in lieu of STANDING UP.
You've got this conservative in your corner... A true red, Goldwater Conservative too, not one of these tainted Fundie, backstabbing, Authoritarian Neo-cons, either. Our party and our movement has been hijacked, much as Islam has by their own fundamentalists, and I am clueless as yet as to how to take it back. And it is for that reason alone that I refuse to drop my Republican Party registration, as I have been wont to do often in the past few months... but I know, in my heart of hearts, that we can bring it back to the middle, and to reality and to sense. We just have to figure out how....
Hehehehe... I truly do understand that committment to company.:) And that is truly respectable. I guess that's one reason I go more for self-training than investing, plus, down here in SD, no one sends people to training anymore.:\ They think it's a free vacation pass. It sucks.
OC is a little different than San Diego, especially with the more moderate mindset. People are nucking FUTS in this city, I swear. I've been stalked by more insane lesbians than I can shake a stick at, ending up in court over them, even. AND I'm MARRIED! I'm sorry if I'm hot, but if the guys can leave me alone, why can't the girls?:P But the violence, especially around the border and surrounding areas, the gangs, and the drugs... well, it's getting too close to home.:\ *sigh*
I think the state of California has been in a state of denial for quite some years. Possibly even a decade or more. Well, certainly some parts of it *cough* bay area *cough*. Banning all weapons is a violation of the 2nd Amendment Rights of the people... but then... they voted for it. *shrug*
I've already got job searches on the hunt for some areas, but I don't know where that will lead. Where I want to go, there are few jobs. We'll see how it goes..I'm hoping to move back home to Colorado.:)
So long as you are visiting, you don't need to change a thing. If you move to the state, you have X weeks to get a license and register your vehicles. (same in all states) Ok, some thing are plain illegal and will get you pulled over, but even those items will only earn you a ticket, it would have to be pretty serious for them to impound you vehicle.
Yeah, you *now* must register your vehicle within 15 days of moving to the state - they consider moving to be residing and working a job within the state. 15 DAYS.
Arizona window tinting could get your car impounded, without question. This happened to my CIO at my last job.... *roflmao* That was HILARIOUS! He'd been here 45 days. And hadn't registered his car yet, either.
You know what's sad, though? My illegally living here neighbor that has broken the law 18 ways from Sunday is driving a VW that smokes blue through the front, not the back, and has tags expired in March, 2006. She drives it every day, without fear of retribution.... and Lord knows that she doesn't carry insurance either. *gah* I've turned in her license plate to the DMV website 3x, and still, they do nothing.:\ Bureaucracy... what can ya do?
Part of me just wants to quit the state. For the moment, I will be voting to re-elect the governor, because as much as I want to see Terminator 4 and True Lies 2, I fear the consequences of Angelides in office more than I want to see new movies. Having a Republican in office at least offers a semblance of a bulwark against the Democrat-controlled Legislature's drive to ruin the state.
HERE HERE!!!!!!!!!!! Some SENSE being spoken!!! Angelides is a crackpot crook, who has contributed to this state's decline for years. And Jerry Brown - former cracked up mayor of OAKLAND - for Attorney General!?!?!?!?!?!?! WOT WOT WOT?!?! I about choked on my coffee this morning when I saw his ad. It was hilarious.
I admire your sticktoitiveness here Martin, but um.... I'm gone. Well, I'm sticking around to vote this year, but hopefully by the beginning of Spring, I'll be out of here. I'm sick to death of being ass-raped on my taxes that *I* never see a benefit from. I *paid* the trippled car tax, thank you very much mother fucking Davis! And I never did get my refund from them either. (and they are still trying to get me for an extra 200 bucks!!) Futch 'em. Our state education is one of the best funded in the country, yet we continuously have the WORST scores and produce the least number of graduates, not to mention the violence, corruption, and downright evil in the school systems themselves. And don't *even* get me started on the ESL program that is sending our kids straight back to first grade in seventh!!!
$7800/year in taxes, just in PAYROLL, is way too much to be funding this screwed up state. A state that tried to override Ahnoldt's veto of 'politicizing' textbooks by demanding equal representation for gay/bisexual/transgender families! WTF?!?!? Before anyone flames me, I'm a gay rights supporter, including gay marriage, but TEACHING IT TO 5th GRADERS IS UNCALLED FOR!!!!!!!! All flames will be summararily ignored. Oh, and a state legislature that wants to axe all private healthcare provided by employers to their people, so that the state can provide a publically funded healthcare system for everyone *cough* illegal aliens *cough*, including those of us that currently shell out over $250/month! Fuck that shit.
So Martin, I sincerely applaud you, but... I can't do it anymore. 9 years down here on the border has sucked the life out of me, and I live in constant fear of kidnapping, assault, carjacking, or worse. And I live in the gay neighborhood!:P I'm gonna go wherever the Fates decide who needs an excellent Sr. Systems Engineer for Open Platforms.:D But then, you probably have a much more established family than I... all my family is long gone (passed on). Keep a stiff upper lip, keep voting, and for God's sake, keep your powder dry.
Are you fucking SERIOUS?!?!?! Holy God, you're a dumbass if you think that Americans funded the IRA. *roflmao* And good for England for paying us back, unlike so many other haters in Europe *cough* France *cough*.
Let me point out one fact, however. NO, England did NOT fight off the Nazi's without the help of American pilots. American pilots were flying sorties in British Aircraft from '38 on. (According to Ronald Reagan's biography, as he was *there*) My grandfather was in Britain working motorpools from '40 on as well. So, shut the hell up about you did it all yourself. That's BS, and you know it.
For the record, I study British history quite extensively, and know for a FACT that Americans did NOT win the War alone - well, yeah we did, in the Pacific. No one helped us fight the Japanese! However, without the combined efforts of the Brits, Frogs, and other resistance fighters, the war would have been lost - well, Hitler would have died of Syphillis first, but that's ok. I know how hard the Brits fought, and they would be mortified to know you speak of US Marines and wish they would all 'die'. I know because my grandfather went BACK to fight for his grandmother's homeland, and to keep it free. I spend hours and hours over the weekend pouring over BBC British History programs, as well as German. I understand it quite intrinsically. You will also notice that I never said that we did it ALONE, either. And we rebuilt the nations that were so pitilessly destroyed. What YOU believe we show in hatred, we make up for in kindness amd mercy. And I'm damn proud of that.
The threat of the IRA is indeed much similar to the threat of the Islamofascists... fighting over religion, killing innocent mothers and children. Why can't you see that? I'd like to see some hard core proof that the American Government was funding the IRA. I have looked into this at length and found NOTHING.
I respect your right to have the opinion that you do, however, I take high offense that you wish to see them all killed. That is extremism, and it is out of line. Maybe, just maybe, you wouldn't mind seeing your own Prince Harry killed while defending British Troops in Basra??? How could you, as a human being, say any such vile thing?!?!? He does look damn good as a tank commander!:D And I would mourn as much as I have mourned the losses of all of the British monarchy and many of their subjects. Being 1/2 English and 1/2 Irish, I do have that right. Just because my ancestors all came over to the US 400 and 200 years ago, does not change my blood one iota.
You are really a piece of work. I'll remember to tell my husband that - who's father was killed in Germany trying to stop the Soviet takeover of Europe. HE was a Marine, his father an Air Force General. You make me ill.
I suppose if we had stayed out of England in the years leading up to WWII, you'd all be speaking GERMAN! Go read your history books.
I just want to say that you fucking ROCK! I thought I was too terse on my response to Cederic, but um. NO. Thank you for your service to our beloved country, and for the freedom and rights of those oppressed by others in the face of death. You are a hero, sir, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also want to commend you on your handling of this AC... I am a just a patriot girl - I couldn't serve, but I sure tried - and I think you've done our Marines PROUD! HOOOOO RAH!
And thank you for sacrificing the comforts of home and family to fight the good fight in Iraq. I know the conditions there are beyond wretched, both environmentally and culturally, but I know we are doing what it takes to keep the world (and our shores) safe from these crazy mofos!
And a *hug* if you'll accept it. Thank you again, Enigma. Thank you.
When was the last time you were in Iraq or Afghanistan, or even South Korea or other hotbeds of any kind of activity? Have you any dealings with the people that are murdering their own people? Have you MET any of the Islamofascists that would rather explode into a grease-spot in front of a market full of women, than embrace the life and love and hope of those women and their people?
What experience do YOU have with those vowing to wipe Zionist Capitalists off of the face of the earth?
If you have none, you have NO basis on which to make the statements you did. You know nothing, and you demonstrated it by your ignorance in this post. This man is a United States Marine, trained to give his life in defense of *YOUR* freedom - wherever you are!!! Come on now, do you really think that NOT fighing the War On Terror (which just happens to have a theatre in Iraq now, thank you very much Husseinites and friends) would have stopped any of the terrorist attacks in Bali, London, Madrid, Mumbai.... I can go on forever. NO!!!!!!!! It wouldn't have.
I cannot understand how people don't GET the ideological fight that the Western World is up against... all you need to do is open your eyes and look around. Maybe talk to some extremist Muslims, find out how much they HATE any symbol of Western Culture or Future. They want to dominate the entire world.... this is why they have put in Sharia Law in Banda Aceh and Tamil in the absence of any Western Leadership after the 2004 Christmas Tsunami. We failed those people, and because of that, they are fighting for their survival now.
If WE - the Americans, you know the ones who saved England's ass, France's Ass, and funded the entire rebuilding of Europe and Japan - don't get out there and STOP those who wish to murder people for not having the same belief as them, NO ONE WILL!!!!!!!! And ain't no way America is going to let any part of this world fall into the hands of 13th Century Barbarians - IE: Taliban. Notice, no one stepped up to offer any more troops, though British and Canadian ones are dying every day.... Only Germany is sending any sizable force into Lebanon - 2500 troops, their first deployment since 1945. If we do not stop them and protect people who cannot protect themselves, praytellme, will you?
Slashdot Mirror
It's kinda sad that the None of the Above vote for my precinct still results in 100% Republicans. *shrug* But I'm doing it anyways... because NOT ONE of the CongressCritters serving right now is worth their weight in dog pooh.
This is one Republican (albiet stuck in Democrat *HELL*) that completely agrees with you.
But I'm goin' down to Costco tomorrow and getting that gigantic bottle of French Vodka to sip on all night. It's gonna be a long one watching from the West Coast.
I'm smart, and I haven't left it. Not after 15 years of devotion, love, hate, abuse, 90 hour weeks, and oh yeah, the inevitable sex harassment. It's amazing that I haven't gone postal yet, in fact... though some have feared I would. Well, maybe what my husband says is true... I'm so smart, I'm dumb.
:D
The fact of the matter is, I don't know what else I would ever do. And I'm not going anywhere.... my life IS IT, and I love it. I left my hometown in Colorado over it, and who knows if I can ever return, as there's no jobs there to fulfill that particular need. *sigh*
Nope... that's why I've stuck it out through all the rough patches and stayed in it. Nothing ever could fulfill me with the love of my career as fixing broken shit. Especially if I'm the one that DIDN'T break it!
Thank you for posting this!!!! I wish I had mod points, because this is gonna get buried. Nice to see there's *some* sense still out here in /. land. I'm beginning to wonder. The ACLU has done more to destroy American Liberty than they *ever* tried to save. *sniffle* Sometimes I'm glad my grandparents are dead.
There is no such sect. There are people who call themselves Salafi, means following first 3 generations of Muslims.
:) Not to mention, it is all very tainted by Western Media, as I'm sure you know.
Thank you for clarifying that. You must realize that what I know is limited to working closely with Pakistanis and Saudis, as well as having two dear friends, one Iraqi and the other Iranian.
There are two questions. First, who is practicing Islam correctly, those who "adapt" the commandments of The Creator to "modern times", "environment", "West" or those who stick to those commandments no matter what?
Well, there you are... that is a very interesting way to look at it. I would say that those who live by the teachings of Mohammed and the will of The Creator are looked upon as practicing Islam correctly, where those that adapt the system to their own world are more what we call, fallen. Does that make sense? Like, we have Jack Jews and Jack Mormons, those that were raised to be faithful and pious, but have left their church and background - but still come back for holidays.
Second, what is extreme is subjective, right? I find it quite extreme to expose a human body Western men and women do, I find it quite extreme that Westerners get drunk in pubs and bars and expose their drunkedness to the public, but I am ok with that. I understand why they behave like that, and I am living in a Western society. Now understand that countries like Afghanistan have their own notion of what is extreme, what is decent, what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. So your statements is actually translate to "I saddened to see how MUCH more different it is from Western culture than the Islam that my Muslim friends practice."
Absolutely. I can understand that. And honestly, I don't disagree with your viewpoint. It seems that there is a lot of 'face' in your culture, um... like other Asian cultures, and keeping that face is very important. It seems that a lot of that went out with the times here in the West, and no one tries to be their very best anymore. You are accurate in your understanding... and I continue to be amazed with how crass some cultures have become, including American. It's the "I Don't Care What Anyone Thinks, I'll Do What I Want" attitude taken to the limits.
Pagans associating The Creators with any kind of partners, helpers, etc. are indeed strongly condemned in Islam, because that is the greatest and only unforgiveble sin. The person who dies in the state of Shirk (associating partners with The Creator) will be hold in Hell eternally, while all other sinners will eventually will become purified in Hell and saved from the Hellfire.
I can completely understand that, and I would have massive issue with anyone that did that. There are those that choose to mix Christianity and Magick, and it ends up creating adversity for them, because of the opposition between the faiths. I am offended by that, because I *DO* respect the World Religions for all their history and teachings, but choose my own path, handed down by my forefathers. By the same token, seeking conversions (I don't know how else to put it) or pushing one's faith or ideology upon someone who is against it, I also find hateful and intolerant. Sure, I will share knowledge and information with those who seek it of me, but never would I force someone to try to believe as I do. I think that is where a lot of misconceptions come from about Islamic Faith. For years it has been taught in the West that Islam teaches that all must be converted to the faith or die. All the while, they deny that the Christian and Catholic Churches committed the VERY SAME ACTS OF EVIL FOR CENTURIES! (Can you tell I have a real problem with hypocrisy?)
What is "free"? As a human you have a free will granted by Creator as anyone else. "White" or "black" has no relevance in Islam, Prophet, sal Allahu 'alaihi wa-sallam, said it in his famous Farewell Cermon
I'm with ya. That's why I'm about to bap my husband in the nose for pushing me to live outside the US. He thinks I need the 'exposure'. But, I love this country. My ancestors have fought and died for it for 400 years. Why the hell would I leave? I want my kids born here, and I'm almost too old to even have them! Sure, I'd love to go live in Australia, but not at the expense of losing my citizenship and way of life. I've spent 15 years fighting for what I've got... I don't want to risk it.
Not to mention the fact that I'm terribly political outspoken, active, and reactive. I couldn't send a hundred faxes and letters a week if I expatriate. No way. What right would I have to tell people how to run a country I don't live in? But Gods Help Us All if Nancy Pelosi becomes Speaker of the House or Harry Reid the Majority Speaker. {shudder}
Wow... I'd love to, but damn. Uh, no. *sigh* I'll just keep hoping the CIA returns my calls. :P
:)
:)
I'm JOKING!
I'm also hella-over-qualified for those positions, so I'm out.
I refuse to worship any "God" who would cast its own creations in to an eternity of suffering simply because it didn't worship "Him".
:P :P :P That's a JOKE! I'm the same way. EXACTLY. Christianity and Islam are but both creations of MAN, thereby inherently flawed as such. I'll stick to my old ancient ways of spirituality, predating these creations by eons. :)
And that would get you cast into that eternity of suffering anyways. So... might as well convert, right?
No offense meant, as I really do respect your human rights to believe what you wish. But here in America, I also have that right and the right to speak my mind. And ya know, you just confirmed everything I have learned about the Wahabbi Sect of Muslim, and am saddened to see how MUCH more extreme it is than the Islam that my Muslim friends practice. INCLUDING those who are Shia. *wow*
I won't say it sounds like you're a whack-job, as I'm sure that is my own narrow-minded prejudices talking. But I do praise you on your moderate tone, and I think that is something that is SORELY lacking in the Muslim world. Sometimes I wonder if the Madrasas are any better than the brain-washing Scientology Cult. I get the feeling that some of the misplacement that your brethren feel is because of the 13th Century Values trying to cut it in the 21st Century World.
One question I would ask, as I believe I know the stance that they have on Christians... What about Pagans? I'm a witch, you see...Not Wiccan, no, but a witch nonetheless, from the oldest of Irish times, my knowledge passed from my forefathers to me, and been rekindled through modern day knowledge and communication. Does that make me the ultimate infidel? Honestly... I'm just asking out of curiousity. Not that I blame them for their stance on the Christians... I've got way more than my share of issues with them. But that said, what about being a FREE WHITE WOMAN, making all the money, supporting the home and NOT having children yet at the age of 33? Hey... I've always been the black sheep, why not some more.
Finally, I want to thank you for speaking out on this forum. I know far too many that dwell in silence and isolation, and I half thing that is what drives them mad and to do the things that they do. I have no doubt that Mohammed was a wonderful prophet just as Jesus was... but they were merely good men who wanted good things for their people. We have no evidence that there IS a God, let alone God-creatures come to Earth. So that's a paradox for me, you see. I just think that the entire world needs a whole lot more love and tolerance, and a lot less hate and violence. Don't we all, though?
And as time goes on, you will find you place in this world, the place you are destined to live in peace and harmony with man. I firmly believe that we *all* have that destiny as human beings.
We're working on it. My husband has been trying to convince me for 4 months, and I'm just now starting to warm up to the idea. He's been in contact with immigration officials, and with my skills, Pffffffffft, it ain't a problem. :) My kiwi friend says, go, go now while you have a chance. *sigh* I just don't know. I don't *do* water. I love nature and animals more than humans though. I have no family keeping me here in the US, and no ties at all.
So, we've been watching as many documentaries as possible. The latest Discovery Atlas one was incredible in high-definition, and I am so in love with Mowry (sp) people. BUT. I'm a boob. A big fat Rebel Redneck (ok, no, I'm not fat, I'm 5'11" and 150 pounds of solid girl curves in all the perfect spots... and a redhead). I like NASCAR, Bull Riding and NFL, hate basketball and baseball. Both of my parents were from the South though, and tried to impose on me their redneck ways. I've done pretty good to rise above them, and am certainly NOT a racist, and love other cultures.
I fear that the rising religious animosity in this country is going to destroy it, and I don't like the way things have been trending so much towards hate and intolerance. And this is from a Conservative Republican!!!!!! However, I am not a Christian or an Evangelical, but a pagan in all the best ways. I also have health problems such as asthma and chronic severe pain that I am worried about treating. After 5 years of severe pain and no treatments working, they prescribed me marijuana! I understand that that is verbotten Down Under, as are firearms, and there goes my collection. SO *blah*. I've got a lot to work through, yet.
But I'm doing my research, beginning to poke around some career sites to see if I could even get a job doing Disaster Recovery/Backups/Systems Engineering. It will take time, and time is something I've got. I'm not too worried about the remainder of the Shrub's presidency, but I'm terrified of what is to come after. I told D that we would do preparation and investigation, and pending the outcome of the 2008 election, GO. Cuz I tell ya what, if Hillary gets elected, I'm so fucking gone, it's not even funny. Either that, or I'm hiding in a cave until she self-destructs. ESPECIALLY if she puts Bill on the VP ticket, which has been discussed by several US Papers. It's possible, but not likely. We'll see how it goes.
Mostly though... I've never been out of the US (Canada & Mexico don't count), but was born in Guam. I could use some world travel exposure here at 33 years old. But...that begs the question. I'm getting ready to have kids in the next 2 years. I have to throw that into play too. *sigh* It's a lot for a girl from my background of poverty to work out. We'll have to see how it goes.
My husband and I have kicked around going Down Under for a while, and my friend, a kiwi, tells me to go if I have the chance. I've been researching it for a while now, and well, every since I saw the Discovery Atlas program on it, I'm *so* excited. But... of course, it may take a while. A permanent decision is pending the 2008 elections. If Hillary gets elected, I'm so gone, I don't care where I gotta go.
Now *that* is the best comment on this whole thread... but I'm out of mod points, so I thought I'd just respond and tell you! :P
Um, did you not take American History in class? Or have access to the History Channel? Holy Cow. And good fucking luck trying to catch a B52 flying at 68,000 feet that never sets down.
Google Chrome Dome.
F. U. D. and lies... F. U. D. AND LIES!!!!!!!!
Source of the article are ANARCHISTS that would seek to end all government. Get a clue, know your backgrounds and research your facts before posting this tripe.
And what YOU are missing is that each and every one of those police actions were *AFTER* people DIED. How preventative is that?????? I'm sorry, but I'd rather live than die because some cop can't spit out his fucking donut in time to save my life. Our safety (as well as our LIBERTY) is each individual's responsibility, NOT LAW ENFORCEMENT. The sooner people learn this, the sooner we might just get ahead of these fuckers.
No, you are not, and I think it's tragic and sad that they modded your post Funny.
I tell ya, I am so sick of the shit the liveral leftist pinko commie bastards are pulling right now that I want to scream my head off, and believe me, I *have* been. No matter that this has PROVEN to stop terror attacks and capture terrorists, they still wonk on about it with their lies and deceptions and half-truths, all so full of hatred it would make Voldemort embarassed. And to top it off with a sex scandal because those of us who are smart enough to know the truth KNOW better, and can see right through it (not that the Foley scandal ISN'T disgusting, but it's being handled with grace and class that repeat-sex-offending Democrats have NEVER had and reelected them 5,6,7 times. And sadly enough, because that's the only way to get at the Christian RightWing Fundies... they'll get the results they want. Truth, dignity, and respect be damned. Let alone common decency.
I'm terrified for the future of our country, especially if the fucking whiny baby-boomers take over our governments. They don't know anything BUT whining, quitting, and self-serving. They have never cared about the next generation, or the future - else we wouldn't *BE* going through this today.
I do have to say I have not been happy with *everything* George W. Bush has done, and I disagree with him heavily on immigration and globalization, and even some homeland security matters. But I support him for the sole reason that he is fighting the War on Terror, and winning, though it may seem differently because of the liberal media bias. Again...this is not new, and cost us Vietnam. If that is one lesson that our leadership *ever* learnt about that shithole, I would think it's to IGNORE THE MEDIA! There's a REASON that no terror attacks have killed American Citizens on US Soil, and if other countries thought a little bit more about what we have done, perhaps there would not have been a Madrid, a Bali, a London, or even a Mumbai. But no, thousands have continued to die in lieu of STANDING UP.
You've got this conservative in your corner... A true red, Goldwater Conservative too, not one of these tainted Fundie, backstabbing, Authoritarian Neo-cons, either. Our party and our movement has been hijacked, much as Islam has by their own fundamentalists, and I am clueless as yet as to how to take it back. And it is for that reason alone that I refuse to drop my Republican Party registration, as I have been wont to do often in the past few months... but I know, in my heart of hearts, that we can bring it back to the middle, and to reality and to sense. We just have to figure out how....
F. U. D.
That article is the complete and utter DRECK of the internet. Written by anarchists that would rather see government implode than fix it.
Check it's sources, then their sources, and then, of course, follow the money.
I'm so SICK of this article being thrown around by the 'Rats. It's all LIES.
Actually, it's a light blue/robin's egg blue. :\ My dad had it when he died, but he didn't die from it.
Hehehehe... I truly do understand that committment to company. :) And that is truly respectable. I guess that's one reason I go more for self-training than investing, plus, down here in SD, no one sends people to training anymore. :\ They think it's a free vacation pass. It sucks.
:P But the violence, especially around the border and surrounding areas, the gangs, and the drugs... well, it's getting too close to home. :\ *sigh*
:)
OC is a little different than San Diego, especially with the more moderate mindset. People are nucking FUTS in this city, I swear. I've been stalked by more insane lesbians than I can shake a stick at, ending up in court over them, even. AND I'm MARRIED! I'm sorry if I'm hot, but if the guys can leave me alone, why can't the girls?
I think the state of California has been in a state of denial for quite some years. Possibly even a decade or more. Well, certainly some parts of it *cough* bay area *cough*. Banning all weapons is a violation of the 2nd Amendment Rights of the people... but then... they voted for it. *shrug*
I've already got job searches on the hunt for some areas, but I don't know where that will lead. Where I want to go, there are few jobs. We'll see how it goes..I'm hoping to move back home to Colorado.
So long as you are visiting, you don't need to change a thing. If you move to the state, you have X weeks to get a license and register your vehicles. (same in all states) Ok, some thing are plain illegal and will get you pulled over, but even those items will only earn you a ticket, it would have to be pretty serious for them to impound you vehicle.
:\ Bureaucracy... what can ya do?
Yeah, you *now* must register your vehicle within 15 days of moving to the state - they consider moving to be residing and working a job within the state. 15 DAYS.
Arizona window tinting could get your car impounded, without question. This happened to my CIO at my last job.... *roflmao* That was HILARIOUS! He'd been here 45 days. And hadn't registered his car yet, either.
You know what's sad, though? My illegally living here neighbor that has broken the law 18 ways from Sunday is driving a VW that smokes blue through the front, not the back, and has tags expired in March, 2006. She drives it every day, without fear of retribution.... and Lord knows that she doesn't carry insurance either. *gah* I've turned in her license plate to the DMV website 3x, and still, they do nothing.
Part of me just wants to quit the state. For the moment, I will be voting to re-elect the governor, because as much as I want to see Terminator 4 and True Lies 2, I fear the consequences of Angelides in office more than I want to see new movies. Having a Republican in office at least offers a semblance of a bulwark against the Democrat-controlled Legislature's drive to ruin the state.
:P I'm gonna go wherever the Fates decide who needs an excellent Sr. Systems Engineer for Open Platforms. :D But then, you probably have a much more established family than I... all my family is long gone (passed on). Keep a stiff upper lip, keep voting, and for God's sake, keep your powder dry.
HERE HERE!!!!!!!!!!! Some SENSE being spoken!!! Angelides is a crackpot crook, who has contributed to this state's decline for years. And Jerry Brown - former cracked up mayor of OAKLAND - for Attorney General!?!?!?!?!?!?! WOT WOT WOT?!?! I about choked on my coffee this morning when I saw his ad. It was hilarious.
I admire your sticktoitiveness here Martin, but um.... I'm gone. Well, I'm sticking around to vote this year, but hopefully by the beginning of Spring, I'll be out of here. I'm sick to death of being ass-raped on my taxes that *I* never see a benefit from. I *paid* the trippled car tax, thank you very much mother fucking Davis! And I never did get my refund from them either. (and they are still trying to get me for an extra 200 bucks!!) Futch 'em. Our state education is one of the best funded in the country, yet we continuously have the WORST scores and produce the least number of graduates, not to mention the violence, corruption, and downright evil in the school systems themselves. And don't *even* get me started on the ESL program that is sending our kids straight back to first grade in seventh!!!
$7800/year in taxes, just in PAYROLL, is way too much to be funding this screwed up state. A state that tried to override Ahnoldt's veto of 'politicizing' textbooks by demanding equal representation for gay/bisexual/transgender families! WTF?!?!? Before anyone flames me, I'm a gay rights supporter, including gay marriage, but TEACHING IT TO 5th GRADERS IS UNCALLED FOR!!!!!!!! All flames will be summararily ignored. Oh, and a state legislature that wants to axe all private healthcare provided by employers to their people, so that the state can provide a publically funded healthcare system for everyone *cough* illegal aliens *cough*, including those of us that currently shell out over $250/month! Fuck that shit.
So Martin, I sincerely applaud you, but... I can't do it anymore. 9 years down here on the border has sucked the life out of me, and I live in constant fear of kidnapping, assault, carjacking, or worse. And I live in the gay neighborhood!
Are you fucking SERIOUS?!?!?! Holy God, you're a dumbass if you think that Americans funded the IRA. *roflmao* And good for England for paying us back, unlike so many other haters in Europe *cough* France *cough*.
:D And I would mourn as much as I have mourned the losses of all of the British monarchy and many of their subjects. Being 1/2 English and 1/2 Irish, I do have that right. Just because my ancestors all came over to the US 400 and 200 years ago, does not change my blood one iota.
Let me point out one fact, however. NO, England did NOT fight off the Nazi's without the help of American pilots. American pilots were flying sorties in British Aircraft from '38 on. (According to Ronald Reagan's biography, as he was *there*) My grandfather was in Britain working motorpools from '40 on as well. So, shut the hell up about you did it all yourself. That's BS, and you know it.
For the record, I study British history quite extensively, and know for a FACT that Americans did NOT win the War alone - well, yeah we did, in the Pacific. No one helped us fight the Japanese! However, without the combined efforts of the Brits, Frogs, and other resistance fighters, the war would have been lost - well, Hitler would have died of Syphillis first, but that's ok. I know how hard the Brits fought, and they would be mortified to know you speak of US Marines and wish they would all 'die'. I know because my grandfather went BACK to fight for his grandmother's homeland, and to keep it free. I spend hours and hours over the weekend pouring over BBC British History programs, as well as German. I understand it quite intrinsically. You will also notice that I never said that we did it ALONE, either. And we rebuilt the nations that were so pitilessly destroyed. What YOU believe we show in hatred, we make up for in kindness amd mercy. And I'm damn proud of that.
The threat of the IRA is indeed much similar to the threat of the Islamofascists... fighting over religion, killing innocent mothers and children. Why can't you see that? I'd like to see some hard core proof that the American Government was funding the IRA. I have looked into this at length and found NOTHING.
I respect your right to have the opinion that you do, however, I take high offense that you wish to see them all killed. That is extremism, and it is out of line. Maybe, just maybe, you wouldn't mind seeing your own Prince Harry killed while defending British Troops in Basra??? How could you, as a human being, say any such vile thing?!?!? He does look damn good as a tank commander!
You are really a piece of work. I'll remember to tell my husband that - who's father was killed in Germany trying to stop the Soviet takeover of Europe. HE was a Marine, his father an Air Force General. You make me ill.
I suppose if we had stayed out of England in the years leading up to WWII, you'd all be speaking GERMAN! Go read your history books.
I just want to say that you fucking ROCK! I thought I was too terse on my response to Cederic, but um. NO. Thank you for your service to our beloved country, and for the freedom and rights of those oppressed by others in the face of death. You are a hero, sir, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also want to commend you on your handling of this AC... I am a just a patriot girl - I couldn't serve, but I sure tried - and I think you've done our Marines PROUD! HOOOOO RAH!
And thank you for sacrificing the comforts of home and family to fight the good fight in Iraq. I know the conditions there are beyond wretched, both environmentally and culturally, but I know we are doing what it takes to keep the world (and our shores) safe from these crazy mofos!
And a *hug* if you'll accept it. Thank you again, Enigma. Thank you.
Hey Cederic -
When was the last time you were in Iraq or Afghanistan, or even South Korea or other hotbeds of any kind of activity? Have you any dealings with the people that are murdering their own people? Have you MET any of the Islamofascists that would rather explode into a grease-spot in front of a market full of women, than embrace the life and love and hope of those women and their people?
What experience do YOU have with those vowing to wipe Zionist Capitalists off of the face of the earth?
If you have none, you have NO basis on which to make the statements you did. You know nothing, and you demonstrated it by your ignorance in this post. This man is a United States Marine, trained to give his life in defense of *YOUR* freedom - wherever you are!!! Come on now, do you really think that NOT fighing the War On Terror (which just happens to have a theatre in Iraq now, thank you very much Husseinites and friends) would have stopped any of the terrorist attacks in Bali, London, Madrid, Mumbai.... I can go on forever. NO!!!!!!!! It wouldn't have.
I cannot understand how people don't GET the ideological fight that the Western World is up against... all you need to do is open your eyes and look around. Maybe talk to some extremist Muslims, find out how much they HATE any symbol of Western Culture or Future. They want to dominate the entire world.... this is why they have put in Sharia Law in Banda Aceh and Tamil in the absence of any Western Leadership after the 2004 Christmas Tsunami. We failed those people, and because of that, they are fighting for their survival now.
If WE - the Americans, you know the ones who saved England's ass, France's Ass, and funded the entire rebuilding of Europe and Japan - don't get out there and STOP those who wish to murder people for not having the same belief as them, NO ONE WILL!!!!!!!! And ain't no way America is going to let any part of this world fall into the hands of 13th Century Barbarians - IE: Taliban. Notice, no one stepped up to offer any more troops, though British and Canadian ones are dying every day.... Only Germany is sending any sizable force into Lebanon - 2500 troops, their first deployment since 1945. If we do not stop them and protect people who cannot protect themselves, praytellme, will you?