GraniteGrok |
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gran·ite n. 1. A common... hard igneous rock... used in monuments and for building. 2. Unyielding endurance or steadfastness: a will of granite.
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Now look...these are all Republicans. And I'm not saying that none of them are RINO's. We all know that a RINO will do or say anything. BUT...can you see ANY of today's Democrats reciting the words below without wry and knowing smirks on their faces? I'm sorry. I just can't. I wish I could.
Independence. Freedom. Liberty. Patriots.
Danger. Rebellion. Fear. Excitement. Determination.
Honor.
The above words that are often said on this Day of Remembrance when those intrepid Patriots that were the Fathers birthing a new nation. They, of the conviction that their Vision was a new one, a far better one under which a People could live and thrive and be Free, were willing to sacrifice all of what they had - their families, their fortune, and their sacred honor, sacrifice their all for this country. How many of us, today, would really join that group of intellectual and spiritual Band of Brothers?
July 4th - "...our sacred honor". Honor - a word that has become abused and disused the last few decades. How many of our politicians could really and truthfully say they have led and governed from positions of "honor" as meant by our Founding Fathers? How many could rightfully say that in each and every vote and in each and every written bill (or even a majority of the time) that they have acted and voted solely based on their principles and not from "the act of the deal"? How many have consistently put their country ahead of their own careers, pet projects, or their favorite special interests?
VERY few, I'm afraid.
Why? Why do they act thusly? We, those who are governed only by giving our consent, have stopped demanding it. WE have forgotten the true...
The HBO Series, "John Adams", gave us a unique window into the hearts and minds of the Founding Fathers, as people, and as magnificent thinkers. This scene captures the seriousness and difficulty of convincing 13 independent "countries", to break away from their Motherland, and for all involved to risk capture, torture and death...
Needless to say, July 4th is a serious day of intense significance. This year, more than ever, it should bring sobering reflection of the sacrifices made, and to be made, for the sanctity of our Nation.
I've always been bothered by the oxymoronic color-scheme imposed on Republicans in the political world. Somehow, somewhere, at some point, someone said switched the colors on us! ("Let's call conservative and Republican states Red, and liberal, statist, socialist, Democratic states Blue!") Who came up with that stupid idea? The Washington Post---now there's a reliable source, LOL---said that it all started in the 2000 election by Tim Russert. He died in 2008, but he was a big liberal media talking head on NBC and MSNBC for years. So if I'm inclined to see a conspiracy among the media-liars to switch the colors on us---and I am so inclined---he would certainly be a part of it.
Why am I miffed? Simple: "Red" traditionally stands for Communists and other revolutionary socialist movements. As in "Red China"? Or "Khmer Rouge" (the "Cambodian Reds")? Or the movie with Warren Beatty and Diane Keaton, "Reds" (the one that portrayed Communists as merely enthusiastic agrarian reformers in a hurry)? Thus, in the traditional political color taxonomy, "blue" meant conservatives and Republicans, while Democrats and their socialist buddies would be "reds" (or "pinkos" in the jargon of the 1950's...for Democrats who denied and tried to hide how much they admired the Communists).
So of course the lying, leftist, America-hating mainstream media would conspire like they always do, and switch the colors on us, imposing "Red" on Republicans and conservatives, while ditching the true loyalties of the Democrats, disguising them as "Blues." Even Wikipedia points it out: In their entry on "red states and blue states they say
"In general, the media conspired to change the color schemes which were long standing. Blue was nearly always Republican, and red Democrat. [The new] unofficial system of political colors used in the United States is the reverse of that in most other long-established democracies, where blue represents right-wing and conservative parties, while red represents left-wing and socialist parties."
Does this all piss me off? Well, it did, but I've been thinking about it (always a dangerous pasttime). And, you know what? The new color scheme actually does make sense (no thanks to the mainstream media, who as always have their own malignant agenda). Consider....
"Red" comes first, as in "the Red, White & Blue." We conservatives and libertarians tend to eat "red meat," do we not? And we like it! Ditto our liking for "red meat rhetoric." Are you a "red-blooded American"? You can't be if you're a Democrat, because they have great disdain for America. (Oh come on...you're not going to play me a song and dance about how they're all big patriotic America-boosters, are you? Puhleeze.) Ever see the movie "Red Dawn"? Great stuff. The Commies invaded America, and---you guessed it---a bunch of "redneck" farm boys and girls put together a guerrilla movement that helps stop the Commies in their tracks (but that's another story; see the movie!).
Plus there something even more important: "Red" generally stands for "revolution." So who are the true "revolutionaries today? The Tea Partiers! Resurgent libertarian-conservatives in the Republican Party! Those who are fighting to smash the hegemony of both the Democratic and GOP party hacks in Washington, DC! In other words, the people who are fighting against the political class in order to reassert the primacy of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Those are the true revolutionaries in today's America. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were and are extraordinarily revolutionary documents, and to the statist political class those two documents are like garlic and a crucifix to a vampire. In other words, the Tea Party movement and the resurgent libertarian-conservative movement in America and the national Republican Party are the revolutionary vanguard carrying on the anti-tyranny heritage of the early American patriots.
The Democrats hate them all, of course, witness the ongoing but fruitless smears and name-calling. Ditto for the mainstream media and all other institutional toadies for leftism in America. All of which brings up an important, fundamental truth: The national Democratic Party, the mainstream media, and other leftist political institutions in our country today are reactionary forces. How else would you describe those who hate and fear the revolutionary heritage of America and today's Tea Party movement? What else would you call a political party and its members who hate and fear America's revolutionary history and founding documents? Get with it!
So when you think about it, calling our side "Reds" makes perfect sense. We uphold America's revolutionary heritage. Powerful reactionary forces are trying to destroy it, i.e. the national Democratic Party, the mainstream media, and other institutions of leftist statism. So yes, we patriots are "Red-Staters," and Revolutionary Red is our foundational color, because we are American revolutionaries for the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, while the Democrats and other socialist political movements hold that same heritage, and the American people, in fear and contempt.
In New Hampshire, the Free State, we Red-Staters will win. In doing so, we will show the way for the rest of America to break out of the reactionary strait-jacket that Obama and his leftist, statist supporters seek to force upon us. Onward, Red-Staters! We've got a set of elections to win, and then one hell of a hangover mess to clean up after six years of Gov. Lynch and his foolish legislative cheerleaders.
As we celebrate a day of Thanksgiving, a holiday dedicated to giving thanks to God who saw the Pilgrims through their winter's trials in this new land, our United States of America, take in the voices of those young men and women who (by now) are keeping us safe as they serve in our military forces. I thank THEM for their sacrifices for keep us safe and secure so that we can partake of the freedoms endowed to us by God:
Eldest is out of town, Youngest is still at Fort Campbell (hopefully home on leave for Christmas!!!) - so it is just me and TMEW and the four footed wonderdogs (Mr. Laidback and Mr. Its-MY-territory), so we're not cooking a big meal this year.
However, these folks were going to - hilarity ensues. Eat Me Daily has 8 turkeys trying their best to emulate Flame from the Fab 4 during their deep frying dives. This short one is labeled 5. A Special Turkey Day
Click the link, and enjoy the seven others.
(H/T: Instapundit)
When that story of that 10 year old kid that is refusing to say the Pledge until gays can marry broke, thoughts keep coming to the fore: is Patriotism (love of country) now subject to any whim or perceived Political Correctness slight?
Is Patriotism "just is", or is it subject to anyone's notion of goodness or badness?
Yes, I believe that everyone has the same right as myself to express themselves - that is not the problem. The problem is this: society can be viewed as a wall where each of a series of individual bricks is a principle or convention of that society; it is that aggregation of bricks, all working together, that form the wall (and in turn, society).
Now, start taking, one by one, the bricks that make up that wall. In the beginning, there is not much of an effect - the wall can show "robustness" - pinpoint failures that do not materially effect the overall functioning of the wall.
At least in the beginning. However, when more and more bricks are removed, the stability of that wall becomes compromised - it starts to lean. Continue to pull the bricks out, it will collapse on its own. Additionally, in a weakened state, any external pressures can also subject that wall to failure.Societies are similar - consider the above wall to be the shared philosophy that is society; remove its basic tenets, its "bricks", it becomes unstable.
Patriotism is one of the deep foundations of any society; pull that brick out and that society is in deep trouble. After all, if a majority of the populace is reached that thinks that any and all slights means that society is inherently bad, who would wish to defend it?
Look, our country is not perfect, but it is ours. Unlike President Obama, I will own up to our problems but to constantly apologize for our actions without ever emphasizing what we have done right? Obama often gives the impression that we have done little right domestically and hardly anything on foreign soil. Me? We have had problems, and have spent much and given much to correct those problems.
It brought back memories of a post I had done back in April of 2008 - a transcript of Red Skelton's famous "I Pledge".
I just ran across a video of that today at Big Hollywood:
Patriotism: it "IS" and NOT subject to someone's deluded sense of narcissism. Too many brave men and women have died in defending our ideals. We aren't perfect, but stupidity needs to be labeled as such - shame on that kid's parents for not educating him well.
One also has to ask - and what have the Professional Educators, as Red recalls, taught as well? Have they forgotten that in this subject area, it is not about the "me", but about the country? Have we, as a society, learned too well the lessons of the "Me Generation"?
...who expects people to EARN their living and not feel that others OWE them their living!
A Great American who tells his CongressCritter what to tell the King and all the King's men what to do...
(H/T: Hot Air)
[H/T Andy D.]
Let's call this a "teachable moment" - if our Organizer-in-Chief can have a "stupidly" teachable moment, I guess Kathy can have one too!
My post ("Dean Barker is NOT a nitwit......but is playing one in the blogosphere") was about the folks at Blue Hampshire who really do think that the TEA Party movement is nothing but an insurance company / Freedom Works "Astroturf" operation...
..You know, just like Obama's ACORN (who has numerous fraud lawsuits pending against it), Obama's SEIU (I've introduced you to one of their volunteers before - see after the jump at the SEIU member that wants YOU to pay for HER healthcare!), and OFA ("Organizing for Obama, no er, National Democrat Committee, um, let's try Socialism, heck America).
Side Note: Anyways, the offer still stands: If some insurance company wants to really pin the title of "Astroturf Skip" on me, I'm a capitalist - I LOVE the Free Market! Sent those $ bills!
I really do dislike those hypocritical folks that say "I'm principled - I'm here ONLY for the mission!" - because one local I'm thinking of who keeps saying that but DOES take money for his mission - just like we have. Ya gotta pay the bills!
Anywho, I saw this in the comments section from Kathy Sullivan who PROVES that the Progressives literally have no clue as to why the TEA Party folks do what they do:
It isn't about health care, it is about destroying the Obama presidency.
No Kathy, you are wrong. The answer is really simple:
It's NOT about the Obama Presidency; it IS about the vision and original philosophy of the Constitution
It's not a Democrat or Republican issue....but I'm just not sure that you will ever understand.
Sadly, many in the GOP may not want to understand either. Or, stand up for it the way they should.
Continue reading "Once again, Kathy Sullivan from BH has it wrong" »
One of the results of the various activist groups working together in the Tea Party movement has been the development of a new pledge here in New Hampshire. No- this isn't something to replace the venerable anti-broadbased tax pledge long taken by Granite State politicians seeking election. In fact, it isn't a pledge designed for the politicians, although they are all urged to sign it... This is a pledge for US- THE PEOPLE to sign and adhere to. Developed by the NH Tea Party Coalition, this new pledge is a CITIZEN document, designed as a reminder that, at the end of the day, it is up to each individual to participate in self government by choosing wisely who we elect...
Whereas, the people of New Hampshire, having been denied the right of proper redress, have come to a point of collective financial ruin. Many of our legislators are guilty of voting for excessive taxation, abusing the public trust, and being willfully ignorant of our Constitution. Further, said legislators have demonstrated a lack of fiscal restraint and proper propriety toward public monies. This has left the people stripped of their God- given and Constitutionally guaranteed rights; and exposed them, their families, and their communities to the winds of chance. Though normally prudent and self-sustaining, many members of the citizenry now find themselves removed from respectable and honest employment, through no fault of their own. Such a situation can no longer be tolerated.
Be it known, that the people, in exerting their rights, do hereby pledge the following;
1] That we shall assemble at the proper time for voting, and shall vote out of office those who have so abused us.
2] That we shall replace these representatives with others who respect our Constitution, the rule of law, and the public trust.
3] That these newly-elected representatives shall be held to the highest standards of accountability; and, if found unworthy, shall then be turned out at the next election.Thus, the people shall exercise their God-given and Constitutionally guaranteed rights to force their government to return to fiscal prudence and personal integrity.
This, the undersigned, do solemnly swear.
You can download a copy of the pledge to sign by clicking here. Print it, sign it, and put it on your fridge or some other place where you can see it often, so that you know what your duty is come voting time. Along with that, make copies of your signed pledge and hand them out to your elected officials-- let them know that they are on notice that, if they are culpable in the damage being brought down upon our state and country, they're gone!
For more information, visit the main Tea Party Coalition website, where you can sign up to be notified of important events and actions. If you're in central NH, check out the new Lakes Region TEA Party website by clicking here.
New national bird to replace Bald Eagle?
As we prepare to celebrate yet another Fourth of July, I cannot help but feel a bit melancholy as I review and contemplate the Declaration of Independence, and think about the birth of this “great experiment”, known as America. Have we reached the end of the line, as far as our belief in and adherence to the principles upon which this Nation was founded? When reading the beautiful and eloquent words as created and agreed to by the Founding Fathers, how can you not feel a sense of distance and unfamiliarity when comparing them against the realities we see today.
Consider what is unquestionably the most famous part of the Declaration:
“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…”
Are there any “self evident truths” and “unalienable rights” here in the new Age of Obama, or are these things just merely quaint, outdated ideas from a bygone era? Do these words somehow mean the “Creator” gives a woman the right to “terminate” pregnancies? As she exercises “choice,” what about the unborn child’s right to “life?” President Obama has famously declared that that he wouldn’t want his young daughters “punished” with a pregnancy. So much for the unalienable right to life for his grandchildren-- Such a fine example set by our “dear leader.” What part of the Fourth does he honor?
In our supposed enlightened age, how many Americans even acknowledge some sort of “Creator,” anyway? While many claim to believe, they willingly turn a blind eye as the rights given us by the Creator are systematically stripped away—even to the point of a knowing chuckle or two at those who suggest that much of what our present government does is immoral. “What old-fashioned notions,” they say. “Don’t be so melodramatic.” One must conclude that if they actually believed in a God as a giver of rights to begin with, they would be more vehement in the defense of such. Think about that—why would a person go to the mat for something he or she doesn’t believe in?
Does “pursuing Happiness” give a person the right to the fruits of the labor of others? I suppose one could be happy with getting an extra “slice of the pie” that somebody else has paid for. But what if you happen to be the person that actually earned the “pie?” How happy will you be at the prospect of watching more and more of your just due taken and distributed to others? Is this not what’s happening on a grand scale all around America today? No matter where you look-- whether it’s the federal, state, county, or local government—it’s all the same: all are poised to take an even greater share of the fruits of our labors through taxation. They say money can’t buy happiness, but it sure does help. No matter what consists of “happiness” for a person in 2009, the fact is, it’s going to cost more.
Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died.
Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned.
Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured.
Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War.
They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.
What kind of men were they?
Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.
Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags.
Thomas McKean was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward.
Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Ruttledge, and Middleton.
At the battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.
Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.
John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid.
I hope you will show your support by sending this to as many people as you can, please. It's time we get the word out that patriotism is NOT a sin, and the Fourth of July has more to it than beer, Picnics and baseball games.
(H/T: Tim)
This is a rather interesting story about a new song making the rounds on the Internet. From Andrew Breitbart on the Big Hollywood blog:
Jon David, our anonymous Hollywood player known for trolling for liberal starlets and reporting back to his conservative compatriots at Big Hollywood, was inspired to write, perform, finance and record “American Heart” after a recent run-in with a cynical L.A. woman who at a Venice-area party admitted her contempt for the United States of America. But when Jon David asked her to name a better country, she couldn’t.
Read the rest of the hysterically funny and all-to-familiar story behind the song here.
‘American Heart’ — let’s get this song on the radio.
Let’s get it going viral.
We’ve needed something like this to rally around for a while. It’s got a perfect American blend of pop, rock and country flowing through its patriotic veins.And if it does well enough, Jon David can come out of the shadows and announce who he is. Until we support our own, the Hollywood conservative is going to have to fly under the radar undetected by the town’s well-coiffed totalitarian liberals.
American Heart written by Jon David
c&p: J.David 2009They say
Our reputation
Needs a new coat of paint and a delicate melody
But I say
I like the bruises
And a melody don’t mean a thing
If we don’t have the strength to singI won’t be made to ever feel ashamed…
…that I’m American made
I got American parts
Got American faith
In America’s heartGo on raise the flag
I got stars in my eyes
I’m in love with her
And I won’t apologizeThey say
That we need changin’
As if all the Founding Fathers seem to get it wrong
But I say
I still believe in
the greatest Liberator, Innovator, Cultivator
Freedom’s ever knownSo I suggest you take a look inside
I think you changed already
You went and lost your prideBut I’m American made
I got American parts
Got American faith
In America’s heartGo on raise the flag
I got stars in my eyes
I’m in love with her
And I won’t apologizeDress her up so that you don’t recognize her
She’ll still be there if you wake up in the night
‘Cause a mother can always find her child
Even when that child don’t know he’s lostI’m American made
I got American parts
Got American faith
In America’s heartGo on raise the flag
I got stars in my eyes
I’m in love with her
And I won’t apologize
I’m in love with her
And I won’t apologize
I’m in love with her
And I won’t apologizeClick here to listen to it
Guest Post by Joe Cantafio
When I was a young boy I remember two very important, and two very different parades in Oak Park, Illinois; the quaint little western-Chicago suburb where I grew up.
I can remember at about the age of four, walking with my Dad to the parade that marched down Ridgeland Avenue, only three-blocks from our home on South Taylor Avenue. The date was May 30th. It is still a very sweet and vivid memory of my Dad, Color Guards, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, politicians, little league baseball teams, marching bands, fire trucks and engines, police cars, war Veterans and uniformed Troops. I remember this particular parade because it wasn't the wild celebration that our 4th of July parade always was.
As a youngster I didn't understand the difference between the two parades, but I did notice that The Memorial Day Parade, was holier; quieter compared to the other. There were no clowns, or marchers throwing candy to the crowd, in fact, there was a certain reverence at this particular parade especially when the Troops marched by. As I sat at the privileged seat my father cleared for me on the curb, I watched the people in the crowds' eyes tear up when the WWII Veterans marched by, not realizing that their tears and respectful applause were for those men and women who saved the world about 14-years earlier.
I stopped going to parades when I thought I became too "cool" at the age of 11 or 12. I would use those American Holidays to sleep in. I was all about "me" in those days. It wasn't until the end of my freshman year in high school that it all sunk in. It was then that the meaning of Memorial Day, a day originally set aside to honor Civil War Veterans, began to sink in. That was the year my cousin Charles Genitti, USMC was killed in Vietnam.
I can remember thinking I was going to sleep-in on Memorial Day 1970, but for some reason I got up earlier than expected, showered, and walked out of the house by myself at about 9:30 AM as if I was pulled by a magnet to the parade on Ridgeland Ave. It was as if time stood still, waiting for me to return. The same patriots lined the street dress in their American colors, a bit older now, but still there, supporting their country. I stood back, behind the crowd as more of an observer this time and watched the children as their parents now let them up-front to the curb. That made me smile.
I watched the fire trucks and engines come down the street first, as the children's faces all lit up with excitement; putting their hands over their ears as the firefighters and police officers sounded their sirens as they came screaming up the street. The marching bands seemed a bit out of tune, probably like they always were, I just never noticed it when I was a kid.
[NOTE: Doug & Skip are pleased to welcome Greg Salts of Manchester to the list of 'Grok contributors. As with the rest of our authors and guest posters, we think readers will benefit from Greg's particular views and insights. We have previously posted pieces by him here and here. We asked him to write up an introductory bio to share with the readers. Welcome aboard, Greg!]
Growing up the oldest son of a Navy SEAL team instructor who served two tours of Viet Nam, I got a unique perspective on toughness, family and patriotism. It was not an easy decision for me to move to NH from San Diego, but having spent 16 years in NH, I guess you can finally say that I’m bi-coastal.
It didn’t take long for me to campaign for state rep as a fiscal and social conservative (the only true kind of conservative) in a ward that had not elected a Republican since the Roosevelt era but I proved that deep down, most Democrats hold Biblical values.
Unfortunately, the Ray Buckley’s of the world have dragged their elected lemmings to the extreme left and New Hampshire is a shadow of what it used to be.
I also hosted a political TV show on MCTV in Manchester for five years and was sounding the alarm about radical Islam long before 9/11. Needless to say, I saw what was coming and know what is coming.
This nation is in for a massive Islamic awakening with immigration rushed through from the past, present and future administrations that will inevitably bring suicide attacks, rampant anti-American ‘preaching’ and the ultimate destruction of traditional America as we know it. Look no further than France, Holland, and vast parts of England to see what I mean.
Even though I am a registered Republican, I have little or no faith in any political party. The Republicans feign conservatism when they are in the minority, the Democrats are pretty much reprobate hedonists, and the Libertarians trend toward anarchism.
That leaves church, family, and friends to save this country, I choose all three...
Man, just how many great speeches WERE given on Tea Party Day, anyway? Wow! 
We don't often engage in shameless self-promotion, except when circumstances warrant. Both Skip and I were honored to have been asked to address the Tea Party this past Wednesday in Manchester. All my life I've wanted to announce the start of a revolution in front of several thousand people. If only I had brandished my firearm as I did so. Oh well, next time...
Here's me:
and Skip:
Viva la revolucion! 
Doug & Skip address the crowd. Reports are there were upwards of 3000 people!
More later. Stay tuned for vids...
Pondering the Obama presidency, I cannot help but recall the immortal words of Marvin the Martian:
“Oh! That wasn’t a bit nice! You have made me very angry! Very angry indeed!”
Try as I may, there is little I can find to like about the new Administration to this point. It seems that almost every day since he started, he’s promoted policies I believe to be wholly wrong, or saying something that completely flies in the face of credulity.
The budget he has proposed, which spends money we don’t have like there’s no tomorrow, seeks to focus on three items above all else: so-called “green” energy, education, and expanding socialized medicine. Added to the previous “bailouts” and “stimulus” spending, the President is most assuredly saddling future generations of Americans with debt the likes of which have never before been seen in the history of the world… and he’s only just begun!
While I admit the present mindset that economic cycles can somehow be altered by increased government spending and growth began under the tail end of the Bush Administration, he’s a piker compared to his successor, who has taken such policies to new heights. Plus, Obama has added in a large measure of anti-private sector, “capitalism is the boogeymen” rhetoric the likes of which that haven’t been seen since the halcyon days of the Bolshevik revolution. This is not good in a country where liberty is mostly based on private property rights which are the basic fruits of our labors. Once we break the work ethic, and people no longer have incentive to do much of anything for lack of any real return or reward, then what?
Make no mistake about it—we are living in times where a large number of people have been led to believe that we can borrow our way out of debt and simply print money and spend ourselves into prosperity. You’ve all seen the letters in the papers extolling the use of stimulus money for things that people would otherwise not pay for themselves, a good example being the Gilford police station project. People you would think should otherwise know better think we should simply take this money “because if we don’t, someone else will get it.” This is the very attitude that has brought America to the economic brink.
Who is footing the bill?
Continue reading "Very angry indeed! I can't wait till Tea Time..." »
Well, in addition to the Blue and Gold Star Moms ("...hell hath no fury like a Mom defending her children..."), another group is planning on being in Concord to provide "yet another voice". I mentioned the Granite State Patriots on the show a couple of weeks ago (here) - a group that .
Well, this group (many of which are retired vets) are planning on providing support! Their plans:
Hi Patriots,
Jon LeBrun, one of our members, has given us a heads up on an upcoming Anti Iraq War demonstration which will take place on Saturday, March 21st in Concord. Please mark this date on your calander and inform all like minded friends, family, and organizations as the Granite State Patriots will be there, in force, to counter this. This march is being organized by nhpeaceaction.org. You can go to their web site at www.nhpeaceaction.org and see what they have planned and what they are all about. They intend to assemble at 1:30 PM in the parking lot of Lowes and Market Basket on Fort Eddy Road. They will march from there to the Concord State House Plaza. I think we should be waiting for them. What do you all think?
Jack Kimball, the leader of this group, extends a hearty welcome to anyone ascribing to their platform to come and join them and stick up for America!
Filed under Patriotism - from Sue, a Blue Star Mom (and a great friend of the 'Grok!):
The Blue and Gold Star Mothers of New Hampshire
Supporting our Eagles ~ Past, Present and Future
"SUPPORT THE GATHERING OF MOTHERS"
When: March 21, 2009
Where: Concord, NH
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:30 PMBring your flags! Join us as we walk around the State House in support of our Eagles
At home, for every man or woman who defends and ensures our liberty and protects the shores of America are the mothers who nurtured them into adulthood. We are mostly the silent majority who just encourage and support our military sons and daughters. We are extended by mothers whose blue stars turned gold when their son or daughter gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms ALL Americans enjoy. We are the Blue and Gold Star Mothers of NH. Together we support our troops as they head towards Victory in the battles they encounter to protect the people and the borders of America.
On Saturday, March 21st we will assemble with veterans, past, present and future who have served in the armed forces of these United States of America.
In the words of Lt. Col. Steve Russell, USA retired, we should make no apologies. “What shall we say? What more can we give to our nation than the type of sacrifice we have already given? What words can we the soldiers use to convince Americans at home that the biggest mistakes being made in this war are on the home front, not the battlefront? What will be the value of temporary civilian comforts and the illusion of national safety when a giant shadow of Islamic terrorism is casting itself onto our shores? What will be the meaning of the rhetoric and the political debate when we sift through the rubble of a workplace, a shopping mall or public transit—digging out American bodies targeted for no other reason than because of our way of life and who we are as a people? It is a scene that every soldier who has witnessed it abroad will fight with all his might to keep away—but we never thought that our own people would betray our efforts.”
We the Blue and Gold Star Mothers say YES to supporting our troops to Victory.
Blue Star Mothers of NH is a non-profit, non-partisan, non-political organization that supports their sons and daughters as they serve our country past, present and future.
I think it is fair to say those on the Right who are astute and have been watching the eroding of traditional values, especially here in NH, are not happy. During the show yesterday, I mentioned a new group called the Granite State Patriots (their website is here).
Jack Kimball was a guest on our radio show, Meet The New Press, back on Jan 17, 2009 (announcement here, podcast here). At the time, Doug wrote this:
As noted in this previous posting, Vietnam Veteran era (Navy) and loyal Pease Greeter Jack Kimball sent a passionate email about a new and insidious phenomena occuring recently throughout the US-- INCLUDING HERE IN NH:
As I explained last night, after Greeting the Troops, I have found out that there have been very large Pro Hamas, Anti-Israeli Rallies all over our country. Some of them turned violent. The key point here is that we now have an element in this country that is not afraid to demonstrate their Anti Americanism as well as their support for terrorist organizations such as Hamas.This is the kind of stuff that our kids are learning in US colleges all over the country and it cannot go unchallanged.
We have the responsibility to fight the good fight at home while our wonderful troops are fighting the other fight, overseas. Imagine what they must think when they see this garbage going on in our own country. What they really need to see is that we are doing something abut it. So, if any of you have video cameras, please bring them a take some video of our group during the counter rally and get it up on YouTube.
And indeed, we will have Jack on to discuss the counter demonstration rally that is to take place in Durham Center from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM this coming Sunday. Jack, like me, and I'm sure many of you, is rightfully angry that, given the events of September 11, and the price paid by our brave soldiers in the fighting since, people would have the gall to march and openly demonstrate in FAVOR of terrorists. We'll also talk a bit about the troops he greets at Pease, and what he thinks is coming down the pike, given some recent danger signs most people probably gave scant attention...
Well, he got written up in the Portsmouth Herald, which then got him an opportunity on Fox New's morning show, Fox N' Friend:
I believe that a number of other newspapers, radio shows and TV shows have expressed an interest to have Jack on to explain his group's intent.
Here the link to his group's website: Granite State Patriots - go take a gander!
He has impressed me and certainly has impressed Bruce over at MassBackwards: "Mr. Kimball, you are not alone"(by the way, I read Bruce every day!)
And I would have to agree with that sentiment - he is not alone, nor are others of us that believe in individual liberty, freedom, limited government (and limited taxation thereof), and that our principles must be defended both abroad....and at home.
Jack speaks the truth and believes whole heartedly in what he says; it is amazing how many people, who would normally be content to sit on the sidelines, have expressed interest in his group and are willing to support him.
From over at RightWingNews, Cassy has this to say:
And yeah, I understand the point of the column. It's a criticism. We're "blinded" by love to the point where we don't even see America's flaws. But that's not quite true. I see them, as do many conservatives. But unlike liberals, that's not all I see. I look at America and love her for everything she is, both the good and the bad. I look at my country, and despite the mistakes we have made and inevitably will continue to make, still know that this is the freest, best country on the face of the Earth, know that anyone from anywhere in the world can come here and build a good life for themselves if they're only willing to work hard and play by the rules, that America will always stand for freedom and justice and democracy.
Liberals look at America, and have a hard time feeling the love and patriotism that conservatives feel because they can't get get past the flaws. They can't love America unless she is perfect. Conservatives, however, don't require perfection to know that America is, indeed, a special, blessed place. It doesn't mean that the rest of the world is a terrible, terrible place. It doesn't mean that no one can possibly have a great life anywhere else. However, despite what many Little League coaches and PC teachers may believe, not every runner can finish the race in first, and while the rest of the world may be great, it's just not the USA.
And who sent her off on this topic? A very liberal columnist, Joel Stein:
I don't love America. That's what conservatives are always telling liberals like me. Their love, they insist, is truer, deeper and more complete. Then liberals, like all people who are accused of not loving something, stammer, get defensive and try to have sex with America even though America will then accuse us of wanting it for its body and not its soul. When America gets like that, there's no winning.
But I've come to believe conservatives are right. They do love America more. Sure, we liberals claim that our love is deeper because we seek to improve the United States by pointing out its flaws. But calling your wife fat isn't love. True love is the blind belief that your child is the smartest, cutest, most charming person in the world, one you would gladly die for. I'm more in "like" with my country.
There's a phrase - unconditional love. It means that I love someone or something without pre-conditions or in spite of the present condition or actions, or even future malfeasance in some manner. Unconditional love is love that just is. As a Christian, I am called to love my wife unconditionally no matter how I am treated (and how I am treated is not the point at all). When applied to patriotism, it means right or wrong, Democrat or Republican (or anything else), one loves their country. Simple, right (or it used to be, anyways)?
Politicians come and go, and so do their politics and policies that shape how America is perceived. But that is not America - it's people, its heritage, and its ideals are what make up America. Nothing more, but nothing less. And that is what I love.
It's pretty much a given that this picture depicting Barack Obama, sans hand on heart, was NOT taken during the Pledge of Allegiance, as claimed by many on the Internet, but instead during the National Anthem, when it is not technically required. OK, fine. I'll concede that the picture simply shows him in bad form when compared to his comrades at the event depicted. And besides, that was a long time ago during the primary. Surely the man who is assumed by many (especially himself) to be the next President come January '09 learned his lesson from that episode (and the lapel pin) and has taken care not to do anything more to feed into the "unpatriotic" meme that tends to follow in his wake.
Heh! Think again. Today when I got to work, nearly everybody was buzzing about a story that aired this morning on WMUR NewsNine:
A Londonderry high school student was supposed to sing the national anthem at Barack Obama's rally Thursday. Just hours before he was to hit the stage, the obama campaign told him he was no longer needed! 17-year old Zach Bengal says he was bumped because the campaign had to make time for more speeches. He says the campaign worker who broke the news was apologetic and said they'd keep him in mind for the future.
It was further backed up within a story from the Union Leader about yesterday's NH visit (via MSNBC):
Not present, or at least not singing the National Anthem at the rally was Londonderry senior Zach Bencal.
Bencal, who sings the anthem for a number of school events and is actively involved in local community theatre, had been contacted by the Obama campaign to sing the anthem. He agreed to do so, then was told later in the evening the anthem had been scratched from the program. Bencal said he was told by the campaign the decision was a simple programming change to make room for another speaker.
"I guess it just wasn't meant to be," Bencal said.
Sandra Abrevaya, communications director for the Obama campaign's Manchester office, confirmed the choice had simply been a last-minute scratch from the rally's program, which included the Pledge of Allegiance.
"We regret the miscommunication with Zach about today's event but we are pleased that several other New Hampshire residents were able to speak at today's event, where thousands of voters in both parties gathered to hear Sen. Obama discuss his plan to bring the change we need to Washington."
Obama was introduced by Governor John Lynch. Also speaking prior to the senator was New Hampshire Congressman Paul Hodes.
And of course, with socialism on the march, when it comes time to spread the word, nothing will stand in its way... not even the National Anthem. Could it be that Obama's handlers figured they'd spare him the embarassment of forgetting to fake patriotism once again?
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by Amil Imani
The current presidential election is reminiscent of the presidency of Richard Nixon; one cannot help but be reminded of the Watergate Scandal, the biggest political scandal in American history. Watergate caused the American public to lose faith in the presidency and especially the Republican Party. As a result, in 1977 Democrats and some conservative Christian voters rushed to the polls to elect a virtually unknown political figure outside of Georgia and one of the most unqualified liberal presidents in the history of America, Mr. Jimmy Carter.
"Carter began the race with a sizable lead over Ford, who was able to narrow the gap over the course of the campaign, but was unable to prevent Carter from narrowly defeating him on November 2, 1976. Carter won the popular vote by 50.1 percent to 48.0 percent for Ford and received 297 electoral votes to Ford's 240."
During the Watergate crisis, the American public's faith in the government had been severely tarnished and reduced to its lowest level and the work of many federal agencies had been disrupted by the Nixon impeachment fiasco.
Ironically, history seems to be repeating itself. Again, after 30 years or so, we are faced with a similar dilemma. By now, many Americans believe that President Bush's two terms in office have been a profound failure. For months, Bush's approval ratings have hovered around 30 and now at 24 percent, the same as President Nixon when he left office.
Once again, as a result of these approval ratings, the Democrats are tripping over each other to put another highly unqualified man, Senator Hussein Obama, in the White House. Ironically, with his past ties to racism, terrorism and hating America, America's survival remains at peril.
Currently, the foremost topic on the mind of the voter is the economic mess. Finger pointing goes in all directions without a clear understanding of who is to blame. Some goodhearted, naïve Americans again think that Democrats can indeed be the answer. Unfortunately, their answer, most likely, will be disastrous and will lead America to the biggest quagmire in its entire history. We do well to recognize that shortsighted people with short memories are prone to make terrible choices, even when they have the best of intentions.
Therefore, we want to refresh the voters' memory and help them in making wise decisions. The vote you cast will not simply replace one politician with another. Today, every vote has great existential implications. The economic crisis aside, whether we like it or not, we are truly in a war of survival with Islamofascism and Mr. Obama is not the man who can defend this country.
Now, is all the above just fear-mongering and Democrat-bashing at election time? You are free to see it that way. Nevertheless, it is always more prudent to go with the facts than fiction. In order to understand Obama, we must first re-examine the preeminent presidential negotiator with the dictators and terrorists, Mr. Jimmy Carter.
Obama is known by what he's done - not so much. Hardly a half year of being the junior senator from Illinois, he started in on being the leader of the most powerful country in the world. And he wants to spend it's treasure and single handedly commit the US to the UN Millennium Development Goal. This is an effective UN tax which demands that national governments spend 0.7% of their nation's GDP on fighting world poverty.
How? By spending $845 Billion of your money. Overseas. No longer is is "I gave from my wallet and heart"; we are now past "I gave at the office" and have now traveled to "I gave with my taxes" (which is neither charity nor voluntary).
And that vote is coming up soon in the Senate - this week! Once again, it is time to call your Senators to see where they stand on this legislation. I will call my Senators, Gregg and Sununu, and ask them to vote to kill this ill-advised legislation.
While Obama's only effort at any kind of legislation be an admirable goal in the philisophical area, it ignores a couple of real factors:
From WorldNetDaily (H/T: Jane):
Obama's $845 billion U.N. plan forwarded to U.S. Senate floor
'Global Poverty Act' to cost each citizen $2,500 or more
By Bob Unruh © 2008 WorldNetDaily
The U.S. Senate soon could debate whether you, your spouse and each of your children – as well as your in-laws, parents, grandparents, neighbors and everyone else in America – each will spend $2,500 or more to reduce poverty around the world.
Remember, this is not charity and this is not voluntary. This $2,500 is money that I can longer direct to charities of my own choice. This is money that I would rather give to my church for overseas work (like the blankets my church sent to an orphanage in Africa this past summer) or to Samaritan's Purse that helps kids in foreign lands.
This is government deciding that it knows how to do charity better than you do. And we should say "NO"!
The plan sponsored by Sen. Barack Obama, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, is estimated to cost the U.S. some $845 billion over the coming few years in an effort to raise the standard of living around the globe.
S.2433 already has been approved in one form by the U.S. House of Representatives and now has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar for pending debate.
WND previously reported the proposal demands the president develop "and implement" a policy to "cut extreme global poverty in half by 2015 through aid, trade, debt relief" and other programs.
This has as much chance of success as the Kyoto global warming treaty had in actually reversing global emissions - absolutely none.
As we celebrate the Fourth of July, it is worth a few minutes to reflect on what the birth of this “great experiment”, known as America really means. Consider these words from The Declaration of Independence:
“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…”
Are there any “self evident truths” and “unalienable rights” here in our modern age, or are these things just merely quaint, outdated ideas from a bygone era? Do these words somehow mean the “Creator” gives a woman the right to “terminate” pregnancies? What about the unborn child’s right to “Life”? How many Americans even acknowledge some sort of “Creator”? Does “pursuing Happiness” give a person the right to the fruits of the labor of others?
In dissolving the ties of government with Great Britain, our forefathers created this document, listing as the reason “a long Train of Abuses and Usurpations,” intended “to reduce them under absolute Despotism…” They further point out that because of these “Abuses and Usurpations,” it is “their Right, it is their Duty, to throw off such government…”
What were some of these abuses considered so onerous that our Founding Fathers chose to risk life and property to eliminate? From the Declaration, here are just two:
“For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent…”
and because the King
“has erected a Multitude of new Offices, and sent swarms of Officers to harrass our People, and eat out their Substance.”
Do you feel that the New Hampshire Supreme Court’s ordering of the NH House to fund a so-called “adequate education” borders on “taxation without representation?” Do you believe that the constant addition of more rules and regulations to control every aspect of our lives ever-growing numbers of government agents could be considered harassment?
While wishing all readers of this space a fun-filled Fourth of July celebration, we ask everyone to take a few moments in remembrance of the Founders of our great Nation and ask, "Are we twenty-first century Americans upholding the ideals put forth for all posterity on this fateful day in 1776?"
I found this at Powerline:
President Calvin Coolidge rose to the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1926, with a speech providing a magisterial review of the history and thought underlying the Declaration. His speech on the occasion deserves to be read and studied in its entirety. The following paragraph, however, is particularly relevant to the challenge that confronts us in the ubiquitous variants of progressive dogma that pass themselves off today as the higher wisdom:
About the Declaration there is a finality that is exceedingly restful. It is often asserted that the world has made a great deal of progress since 1776, that we have had new thoughts and new experiences which have given us a great advance over the people of that day, and that we may therefore very well discard their conclusions for something more modern. But that reasoning can not be applied to this great charter. If all men are created equal, that is final. If they are endowed with inalienable rights, that is final. If governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, that is final. No advance, no progress can be made beyond these propositions. If anyone wishes to deny their truth or their soundness, the only direction in which he can proceed historically is not forward, but backward toward the time when there was no equality, no rights of the individual, no rule of the people. Those who wish to proceed in that direction can not lay claim to progress. They are reactionary. Their ideas are not more modern, but more ancient, than those of the Revolutionary fathers.
(H/T: Payton Wolcott for the flag!)
The following letter was sent by the flag-removal lawsuit filer Claude Roessiger's lawyer to one of the veteran activists expressing displeasure over what he tried to do to Wolfeboro's public display of Old Glory. You'd think the guy would have simply crawled back under the rock from whence he came following his withdrawal of the suit. But nooooooo...
Writes the letter's recipient:
Believe it or not I got an email this morning from Roessiger's attorney trying to convice me that his client is a Patriot, and that the displaying of American Flags in Wolfeboro was a partisan display. Here is Attorney William Chapman's actual comments:
Mr. Howe-
I am the attorney who represented Claude Roessiger in the now-terminated suit against Wolfeboro. He brought suit because the town refused either (1) to remove the American flags it is permitting a resident to display on town utility poles or (2) to allow Mr. Roessiger to display his own banner on those poles containing advice from George Washington that our country should avoid foreign entanglements.
Please be assured that Mr. Roessiger is a patriotic American who believes in what our flag stands for. What he objects to is someone using the flag and town property – public property – to advance a particular political viewpoint: support of the Bush Administration invasion of, and continued troop presence in, Iraq. It is clear from minutes of the meeting at which the selectmen approved the display of flags that they both understood and agreed with the reason for displaying the flags.
Mr. Howe, who is organizing tomorrow's American Legion Flag Day motorcyle ride through Wolfeboro, replied, putting the whole thing in context:
Continue reading "Flag Flap Update: This guy just won't stop stepping in it!" »
While the man seeking to have the Court force the town of Wolfeboro, NH to remove the American flags adorning the lighted street poles throughout town might have backed down, the legions of enraged military families and veterans have not.
Saturday is Flag Day. Every June 14th since 1916, Americans have commemorated the anniversary of the adoption of the flag of the United States by the Second Continental Congress on that same date in 1777. In his 2001 proclamation (done by the president every year since 1949), President Bush stated,
The Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of our young republic on June 14, 1777. Describing the new flag, the Congress wrote, "White signifies Purity and Innocence; Red, Hardiness and Valor; Blue signifies Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice."
Which, as we learned with a certain cranky Wolfeboro resident named Claude Roessiger, when displayed in an "excessive and unusual" fashion apparently, in his mind, "constitutes the expression of a political opinion on public property and upon public space, and this cannot be supported."
Rubbish!
Additionally, some enthusiastic motorcyclists from the American Legion have decided Flag Day is an appropriate day and time to operate a Patriotic Flag Ride through Wolfeboro, to show support for the town and their Patriotic Spirit. The American Legion Post at the Alton Circle, has offered to host any riders for this event, and the American Legion Riders Post from Rochester has offered to lead the ride through Wolfeboro. The ride will start and end at the American Legion Post. Assembly time is 1 PM.
Route 28, Wolfeboro, NH
I just got off the phone with Wolfeboro Town Manager David W. Owen who told me that, regarding the flag-removal lawsuit,
"It's our understanding that it's been withdrawn."
Though the Selectboard has not yet seen it, they were informed by a reporter at last night's regular meeting that the Granite State News of Wolfeboro is in receipt of a letter stating Mr. Claude Roessiger is planning to withdraw his suit filed against the town. Asked by GraniteGrok for a statement, Mr. Owen said the Selectmen
"are pleased he's withdrawn what would have been a waste of the taxpayers' money."
While earlier this morning Carroll County Superior Court Clerk Patricia Lenz indicated nothing had changed with regards to the lawsuit's status, a check with Mr. Roessiger's legal counsel's office has confirmed that the Town Manager and Selectmen are indeed correct. The attorney on the case, William L. Chapman of Orr & Reno P.A., is out of the office for the rest of the week, but,
"upon his return on June 9th will notify the Court that the case will be withdrawn."
There are a few additional facts that are part of this story...
Following the initial letter to the Wolfeboro BOS in November asking removal of all flags except those on public buildings (posted here), Mr. Roessiger waited for a response from the town. In the absence of any, he followed it with a second letter at the beginning of December asking for their response to his complaint. Again hearing nothing, he sent them a third letter, in which he threatened a lawsuit, writing that they engage in dialogue,
or we can-- once again-- find ourselves in a situation which will involve our attorneys, a certain acrimony, and-- to be sure-- publicity. I will see to it.
At this point, Mr. Roessiger claimed he would file suit simply because they hadn't responded to him, not because of whether the BOS agreed with him. Fair enough, although it seems odd to me that Mr. Roessiger was good at sending letters, but never bothered to show up in front of the Selectmen in person. I don't know about you, but if I were sending correspondence to my Selectmen and they didn't respond, I'd go to a meeting and get right in their face. The folks at the Wolfeboro Town offices confirmed that Mr. Roessiger never appeared in person before the board regarding the matter. A check of the meeting minutes shows public input is taken at every single meeting.
The town responded to his letters a few days following the litigation threat:
Continue reading "Flag flap over as Wolfeboro man withdraws lawsuit. Score one for the good guys!" »
Downtown Wolfeboro June 4, 2008
With all the attention here in the Blogosphere regarding the flag-removal lawsuit filed by a Wolfeboro man against that town, I decided it was worth taking a ride to see if I could learn anything more. As was reported, indeed a Mr. Claude Roessiger has filed a lawsuit in Carroll County Superior Court against the town of Wolfeboro
"for violating his federal and state constitutional rights of freedom of speech and for violating its limited delegated power under New Hampshire Law."
How so? He claims that when the town approved the installation of some 100 or more American flags by a private citizen on lighted utility poles on April 2, 2003 as noted in the official minutes,
"to increase recognition of the current events and the efforts of our service men and women"
it violated his rights as noted above. How? Well, before diving into the legalese, let's just consider the initial letter Mr. Roessiger sent to the Board of Selectmen on November 7, 2007:
Continue reading "Flag banning lawsuit update: The plaintiff's initial complaint" »
(not Wolfeboro... just a random pic)
It's been a while, but the coveted GraniteGrok Dope of the Week Award begs to be presented once again...
As found in yesterday's Citizen newspaper:
A Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, man is suing the town over a downtown display of American flags.
The town has about 100 U.S. flags affixed to downtown utility poles as a way to show support for American troops fighting in Iraq. But Claude Roessiger claims the Bush administration's foreign policy has turned the flag into a symbol of what he calls "in-your-face, with-me-or-against-me patriotism."
In his lawsuit filed Carroll County Superior Court, Roessiger says the display is excessive, unusual and unlawful.
What do you say? What kind of person is offended when travelling through small town America lined with flags? I always found the sight uplifting. Even when Clinton and Carter were president...
[Read an update to this story by clicking here.]
Click here]
by Debbie Lee
Military helicopters vandalized in Pennsylvania, recruiting offices attacked in over 42 cities, funding denied for our troops, Code Pink sending 600,00.00 to the enemy. How many more treasonous acts need to occur before we stand up and say enough is enough?
Spineless, gutless, Politicians who are using our troops as pawns in their political power struggle playground repulses and disgusts me. They are willing to jeopardize and put our troops in the crosshairs of the terrorists by there lack in funding our troops.
They are more concerned with getting their own way and proving who is in charge of Congress instead of allowing every Senator and Representative to be part of the process on the Hill. They by passed the Appropriations Committee and didn't allow the Republicans to be part of a serious matter like funding our troops. I'm sure you could hear them loudly singing a very prideful rendition of "I did it my way."
I'm sure the troops, including my son who gave up their lives, would love to have done it their way. They knew the attacks on our nation on 9-11 required that the right way was to fight for our freedoms and defend America. In the most unselfish act any American could give they sacrificed their own lives for the freedoms of a nation, for you, for me.
They gave their tomorrows, their futures, so that we could have our today. Everyone of our brave men and women serving know that the same price could be required of them too. What did the leadership on Capitol Hill do with their today? What gratitude did our liberal politicians show them? They yank their funding and play political suicide with the funding bill by attaching the ag amnesty bill to it.
What kind of games are they playing with our the lives of our brave men and women serving? Yet they'll be the first to say they "Support our Troops."
It's time for us to reclaim America and clean house from the self-centered egotistical politicians who have lost there love for America. Our founding Father's would rise up from their graves if they could to smack some sense into these politicians to get them to remember the basic principles this nation was founded on. Certain members of Congress are acting like jealous children fighting to get the most attention.
I have had it with the traitors in America who continue to do acts that are Anti-American and are destroying our Nation. It's time we hold them accountable and prosecute them for their treasonous acts. We have become a nation that is so tolerant of everything, that we stand for nothing. We have become a spineless nation with no moral compass to direct us to make wise and selfless decisions. We are so myopic and "me" focused that we can't see we are handing this nation to our enemies on a platter.
It is time for us as Americans to flood the switchboards of Capitol Hill with our demands to fund our troops. The must prepare a clean bill with the involvement of both parties and through the proper channels.
We also need to demand that strong measures be taken to arrest and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who are committing acts of treason during a time of war by inciting lawless actions.
Your today has been paid for by those who gave up their tomorrows. What will you do with your today to honor those who gave it all?
Debbie Lee
Remembering His Sacrifice
Marc Alan Lee
First Navy SEAL killed in Iraq 8-2-06
"Do not question my patriotism!"
...is what we on the Right hear from the Left. Often, it is hurled as invective before any mention is made from the opposing side.
Not in this case! The example is clear. At the University of Maine - Farmington, a Ms Susan Crane decided that a perfectly dandy art project was to put the American Flag along the UMF's corridors and have people walk on them as a deliberate act of desecration.
This story is literally exploding across the blogosphere as Lance from Maine Web Report informed many of us about the story by sending a link to the Maine College Republicans (see the video there). A few comments:
Note - I wound up with a bunch, so see their excellent comments after the jump (and get more of the story - and emails / phone number to call!
Grizzly Groundswell Blue Collar Muse
Mario Burgos
UPDATE: The MilBlogs are picking this up and the branching out is starting.....check a couple out:
After the jump was my response that I sent to the Administrators of University of Maine at Farmington. With all that is written above, the most responsible one is not Ms Crane but the professors and Administrators that have failed in giving her a complete education.
BTW, you, too, can send them emails:
President Theo Kalikow kalikow@maine.edu
University Provost Allen "piece of cloth" Berger
aberger@maine.edu 207-778-7279
In 2002 during the controversy over the phrase "under God," which had been added to U.S. Pledge of Allegiance in 1954, a recording of a monologue Skelton performed on his 1969 television show resurfaced. In the speech, he commented on the meaning of each phrase of the Pledge. At the end, he added: "Wouldn't it be a pity if someone said that is a prayer and that would be eliminated from schools too?" Given that Constitution advocates were arguing that the inclusion of "under God" in a pledge recited daily in U.S. public schools violated the First Amendment separation of church and state, Skelton suddenly regained popularity among religious conservatives who wanted the phrase to remain.
I give you Red Skelton's Pledge of Allegiance:
"I've been listening to you boys and girls recite the Pledge of Allegiance all semester and it seems as though it is becoming monotonous to you. If I may, may I recite it and try to explain to you the meaning of each word?"
Ime, an individual, a committee of one.
Pledgededicate all of my worldly goods to give without self pity.
Allegiancemy love and my devotion.
To the flagour standard, Old Glory, a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there's respect because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts freedom is everybody's job!
of the Unitedthat means that we have all come together.
Statesindividual communities that have united into 48 great states. Forty-eight individual communities with pride and dignity and purpose; all divided with imaginary boundaries, yet united to a common purpose, and that's love for country.
And to the republica state in which sovereign power is invested in representatives chosen by the people to govern. And government is the people and it's from the people to the leaders, not from the leaders to the people.
For which it stands, one nationone nation, meaning "so blessed by God"
Indivisibleincapable of being divided.
With libertywhich is freedom -- the right of power to live one's own life without threats, fear or some sort of retaliation.
And Justicethe principle or quality of dealing fairly with others.
For allwhich means, boys and girls, it's as much your country as it is mine.
***~~**~~***Since I was a small boy, two states have been added to our country and two words have been added to the pledge of Allegiance...
UNDER GODWouldn't it be a pity if someone said that is a prayer and that would be eliminated from schools too?
God Bless America
First this, and then this from Mario over at (what else) MarioBurgos.com:
t's like District Attorney Kari Brandenburg is purposely flaunting all of the reminders of why she should not be re-elected to another term in office (subscription):
The prosecution and defense squared off in Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court on Tuesday in the case of a University of New Mexico student who ripped down a Mexican flag in September.
Student Peter Lynch has said he did so because it was flying at the administration building unaccompanied by the U.S. flag, a breach of flag protocol.The incident sparked a firestorm last fall, with supporters of the student asserting that his actions were proper given the violation of flag etiquette. Others accused him of being racist.
Let's see - racist? How is taking down a foreign flag "racist"? Oh yeah, I forgot - in our multi-culti world, EVERYONE ELSE'S culture (and obviously, flag) takes precedence over ours.
Let me see if I have this straight - our flag not flying where it should is OK. That's patriotic.
Complaining that someone else's flag (sorry to be redundant, but I'm trying to go slow for the slow among the Libs) is no longer flying is - patriotic?
Among those in the gallery were camera crews from four television news stations.Lynch is charged with a count of criminal damage to property. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
If you need a reminder of what the real issue is here, go back and look at this original post about the U.S. flag code. This is the second time it has come to light that D.A. Brandenburg is prosecuting veterans to the fullest extent of the law for protecting their rights and standing up for the laws of the land. Is she on a vendetta against our veterans?
Of course, when it comes to her judicial cronies, D.A. Brandenburg is only too happy to look the other way. There is something seriously wrong here. A change has to be made.
So, we have a situation where a VETERAN is once again defending our flag - the flag the he showed that he was willing to lay his life down for. For defending that flag, he does not receive a medal but a prosecution.
Get that - court time instead of a parade time.
Mario, thanks for letting us know!
There are two snippets that I have committed to memory. The most highly valued one is this:
For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotton Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
John 3:16,17 (King James, as that is how I learned it long ago).
The next one is the United States of America Pledge of Allegiance:
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands. One Nation, under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
There are fewer words that stir me more than saying either of those phrases. One is because of my belief in God and that His hand is on my life and is guiding my life according to His plan. There IS Someone far greater than I - a truth that our Founding Fathers recognized when they stated that our rights come from Him and not from mere mortals or "the State". His laws and His rights are immutable.
That means that I will be accountable for my actions (or inactions) and attitudes.
Given that our country was founded on those principles, our Pledge is our acknowledgement, our fealty, to our country, established because of the rights and privileges granted by God. Acknowledging our patriotism towards our country should be a simple affair. Some, however, say the Peldge as mere rote - a mere part of a process.
Every time I say it, though, I think about those words and the ideas and ideals behind those words.
Yes, words mean things and words can and should stir mens' souls.
Does this mean that I am a better patriot than those to which it is mere words at the beginning of a meeting or of the school day? No, as someday, they may really think about the meaning and the essence of what they are saying.
But when I saw this, my thought was "but not these folks".
[snip]
Further proof of this: There was some time to kill as multiple tallies of the delegates and alternates were done, and when the time-killer of taking audience questions had run its course and the idea of teling jokes had been nixed, someone suggested doing the Pledge of Allegiance to pass the time. (Are you listening, right-wing bloggers? This is going to get good.)
At the mere mention of doing the pledge there were groans and boos. Then, when the district chair put the idea of doing the Pledge of Allegiance up to a vote, it was overwhelmingly voted down. One might more accurately say the idea of pledging allegiance to the flag (of which there was only one in the room, by the way, on some delegate’s hat) was shouted down.
my first reaction is: YES, I AM QUESTIONING YOUR PATRIOTISM! When Democrats believe that the Pledge is not worth their time, and deserves only their scorn (what else can you call it when people VOTE to NOT say the Pledge). I have HAD it with people who keep redefining words to suit their purposes!
Given that the article stated that most there support Obama, I guess I'm not surprised (e.g., "I am patriotic when I act like I'm not") given the reports about his "patriotism".
Now I'm wound up! Before I type something intemperate, I'll go off and cool down. But believe you me, the Liberal / Democrat meme "dissent is patriotism" schtick is a crock!
I'll be back, for more.
(H/T: Instapundit)
Politically, California is often thought of as the home of Hollywood, Berkley, San Francisco and lots of other "different" places (think Venice Beach). Shows like Bay Watch and bands like the Beach Boys have given rise to a certain "cache" in living there - sometimes "the American Dream".
Conservative? Nope, not these folks! Yet, there are Californian conservatives out there - after all, the one of the archtype political conservative came from California - Ronald Reagan.
One such group are these ladies:
These are ladies that are not to be trifled with - that cartoon is not there by accident! They love this Country heart, soul, mind, and spirit and are bound and determined to see it through this century and onto the next no matter what by holding onto the truths and traditions that have made this country great. Indomitable, indefatigable, and irascible. We salute them (and watch out for their talons)!
I think the 'Grok should do this kind of thing more often. Let us know if you belong to, or know of, other local conservative groups that deserve a little applause!
“On the morning of December 7, 1941, that Fleet’s planes bombed all the US military air bases on the island (the biggest was the US Army air base at Hickam Field), and the ships anchored at Pearl, including ‘Battleship Row’. Nearly every plane on the ground was destroyed; only a few fighters got airborne and opposed the attacking planes. Twelve battleships and other ships either were sunk or damaged, 188 aircraft were destroyed, and 2,403 Americans lost their lives. The battleship USS Arizona exploded and sank with a loss of over 1,100 men, nearly half of the American dead.”
“Yesterday, December 7, 1941- a date which will live in infamy- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
“As Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.”
“Always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.”
Continue reading "Days of Infamy. What a difference sixty six years makes..." »
The kick off fund raiser for the NH Gold Star Mothers was a huge success. While the final numbers are not yet calculated; it's in the thousands of dollars. We bikers gathered at Nault's Honda in Manchester around 8 am. Registration was brisk, perhaps it was the free coffee and donuts provided by Dunkin Donuts of Manchester, with approx. 100 motorcycles registering (many of whom couldn't ride but paid for registrations regardless)...most bikers are affiliated with a veterans motorcycle association, not "club" as reported by WMUR. There's a difference. Nam Knights are a true motorcycle club, but Combat Veterans is a motorcycle association. Hubby and I belong to the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association where serving in combat is the only requirement to join. The Nam Knights have alot more stringent requirements to join and require alot more commitment; i.e., helping handicapped vets at the VA play bingo twice monthly, etc. All of the groups, however, are highly commited to veterans causes and spend countless hours for charities. There were the US Marine Riders, Rolling Thunder, Patriot Guard Riders, and American Legion Riders in attendance as well.
Continue reading "Zoom! Motorcycle Rally for Gold Star Mothers" »
Please click here and read about this extremely important kick-off event for the NH Gold Star Mothers Memorial to be erected in 2008 in Manchester.
Even if you're not participating in the ride, please join us at Veterans Park in Manchester at 1 pm. There will be food, music, raffles, etc.
Bring the kids! This is a family friendly event to honor the mothers of our fallen military and the best thing is that there will not be any long political speeches, just a couple of short ones honoring the Gold Star Mothers. Then you can enjoy the food, music and fun from 1pm until 4 pm...rain or shine!
PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS! If you can't attend, please think about sending a tax-deductible donation in any amount to help build this memorial for our generation and future generations. Make us proud New Hampshirites! Skip a cup of coffee, and send the money instead to support this worthy cause run totally by volunteers so every penny goes to the actual cause. There are no professional fund raisers to take their cut of your donated money. Thank you for your help. It is sincerely appreciated.
..Senator Barack Obama states he doesn't wear a "Flag Pin" because,"It has become a substitute for True Patriotism". I think that's a cop out and an excuse for getting caught without it. It's like saying,"I wanted to serve my country but...".Pretended Patriotism is standing in front of any number of flags as a candidate for President of the United States(Republican or Democrat) and Talking about "True Patriotism" and using that Flag Covered area to down "True Patriotism"..Maybe Senator Obama could place a POW/MIA Pin on his lapel and SHOW True Patriotism and demand that DOD change terminology from the now "Missing-Captured" to what we all recognize..POW/MIA..Maybe one of his aids could update him on the fact that there is evidence of 5 American sons that he cares about being held POW/MIA in Iraq but most Americans are not aware of that because of the terminology change that hides that fact..Maybe he and ALL the candidates that say they"Support The Troops" could wear a POW/MIA lapel pin and learn the names of those 5 American sons!!!.If Pretended Patriotism is wearing an American Flag lapel pin or standing at a POW/MIA Awareness Vigil or saying the Pledge of Allegiance or Saluting as a Veteran any time I damn well please, with or without a hat, or saying ,"I'm Proud Of Being an American and I'm TRULY PROUD of those that serve IN UNIFORM and their Families, then that would make me as phony as those running for the office of President and PRETENDING they care about those who serve this Country.Bob Jones
Meredith
Northeast POW/MIA Network
Vietnam Veteran
Independent voter
First read Skip's recent posting of The Old Paths.
And for those of you who still refuse to "get it" click here. Perhaps this will help you understand why our new path needs to change back to the old path.
If we are to survive as Americans, we need to show our honor to our Armed Forces. Anti-war protestors need to start putting America and Americans first and truly support our troops by showing our support for them and their mission. Stop telling them they've lost, but tell them you know they can win the global war on terror. There is no peace in the land without getting rid of what threatens western civilization as we now know it.
Our troops haven't asked you to Bring Them Home so take down your completely contradictory, stupid signs that say: "Support The Troops, Bring Them Home." This is not showing your support or appreciation for those who fight for you; it only shows your presumptious arrogance.
Our troops sacrifice for you, why can't you sacrifice for them from the comfort and safety of your lazy boy? Your life isn't on the line to keep America free, but their lives are on the line for you and your continued freedom. Wake up you traitors, and yes, that's exactly what you are, or feel free to leave America if you can't love and support The American Armed Forces. Freedom isn't free, except perhaps for you unpatriotic cowards.
This past Sunday, my hubby Dick and I hopped on our motorcycles at 7:30 am here in Bradford to meet up with some of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association members, click here for their website, to ride to Littleton for their monthly meeting. It was about 40 degress when we left home so I pulled out the long underwear, winter riding gloves, face mask, leathers, etc. Believe it or not, I wasn't too cold although I was happy to arrive in Tilton to meet up with the CVMA members to warm up a tad and grab a bite to eat before we left for Littleton.
My husband is the Campaign Director for the Gold Star Mothers Memorial Association (honoring the mothers of NH's fallen heroes), click here, and he had met some of the CVMA members before since they are helping to organize a motorcycle run for Saturday, October 20, (mark your calender) to benefit the Gold Star Mothers Memorial. A Gold Star Mothers statue will be placed in Manchester in 2008. Even if you don't ride a motorcycle, I encourage you to donate to this extremely worthy cause since they need to raise $250,000 by March 2008 to pay for the beautiful statue and other incidentals for the park. Many volunteers are already donating their time, landscaping, excavation work, etc.
All of the riders are either combat vets, supporters or auxillary members. My husband and I are both joining this extraordinary association. Hubby is a Vietnam vet and I'm his number one fan. I asked what the "initiation" to join was all about and was told that there is no "initiation" since serving in combat more than fulfills the requirements of joining. I liked the group and its mission immediately. These people "get it!"
In it's usual disgraceful fashion, the yahoos at moveon.org have slammed General Petraeus with their newspaper advertisement and their website. Since moveon.org are the traitors and have committed treason against the United States of America and not Gen. Petraeus, I believe it's high time these dishonorable folks take up residence outside of the USA since they are the ones who have "betrayed us!" Move out if you hate America so much.
They have absolutely no patriotism, hate our troops and don't deserve to live in the land of the free because of the brave. BECAUSE of the brave, BECAUSE of the brave...knock, knock, is anybody home?
Join me in emailing and calling for the moveon.org cowards to apologize to Gen. Petreaus and our entire Armed Forces. The General has fought in three wars, dropped his own blood for our country and has a PhD and could no doubt make a ton of money in the private sector. Instead he has dedicated his life to the service of our country. What have moveon.org liberals done for their country except feed their own egos and distorted, sick viewpoints?
Moveon.org is quite obviously dedicated to destroying our country and our freedom. They sound as though they've joined with the enemy to discourage, disparage and obviously support terrorists winning and America losing.
"I recently attended a showing of "Superman 3" here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies as well as memorial services and other large gatherings. As is the custom back in the States, we stood and snapped to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was going as planned until about three-quarters of the way through the National Anthem the music stopped. Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments, and everyone would sit down and call for a movie. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place. Here, the 1,000 soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again. The soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped.
What would you expect to happen? Even here I would imagine laughter as everyone sat down and expected the movie to start. Here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every soldier stood at attention.
Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand soldiers 'And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?' It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here.
Oh my, how I used to love to watch Red Skelton on TV. One of the funniest men who ever lived.
His comedic talent never used any profanity nor disrespected anyone, yet I can remember my family and I belly laughing throughout his entire show. Children today have missed so much and been so poisened by the vulgarity of today's society.
While this subject is extremely serious, his humor still shines through....please think and click here and practice these words throughout this beautiful 4th of July and beyond.
God Bless America!
Sign reads "Not one more death. Not one more dollar."
They are barely old enough to fight or vote, but local high-school students showed yesterday that they are old enough to make their voices heard in loud opposition against the war in Iraq. Between 100 and 200 students, peace activists and passers-by demonstrated in front of the State House yesterday afternoon, in a rally organized by the peace clubs of Concord High School and Hopkinton High School, with the help of New Hampshire Peace Action and the American Friends Service Committee.."I think the war's wrong, and we all do as much as we can do," said Hopkinton High School senior Will Merrow, who co-founded his school's peace club. Merrow rallied the crowd, telling them if anyone could give him a reason why the country is in Iraq, he would get off the stage. "If not, I'll stay up here until the death toll stops. We cannot and we will not take it any longer," he said.
Update 1
I wish I had seen this earlier (H/T: RightWingNews).
Again, does this signal a willingness to assimilate?
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When I saw this first at Michelle Malkin's site, my blood pressure meds failed again.
This has gotten zero attention in the MSM. Over the weekend, militant illegal alien activists marched onto a post office station in Maywood, Calif., and replaced the American flag with a Mexican flag while chanting anti-American epithets. Yup, here we go again. Remember this spring?
I generally don't go right to the gutter, but are these protesters that STUPID? Do they really believe that doing this is going to convince us that we should just give in to their demands?
Or do they think that WE are that stupid?
Hmmm, given the support that the MSM gives them, the political correctness "give up-ness" that has taken the place of standing up for what is right and wrong, they may truly believe that we are.
Frankly, I hope not... Go read the whole thing here.
As I have gotten older, and hopefully a bit more wise, I have come to appreciate more and more what a special country, what a unique place, America truly is...
At first take, most would say yes, at least to the first. Many, myself included, and if you are a frequent user of the Internet or a listen to talk shows, you probably would be included to say no.
I generally form my opinions by reviewing a number on the 'Net and then try to cross check a nugget of information against multiple sources for validity. Often, as I have found out, first blushes are wrong, yet get corrected quickly at the better sites. Your mileage may vary in the sites you use (and again, thanks for visiting us!).
Getting info from the major (ABC, NBC, CBS) networks - not at all. Frankly, I don't believe that they are "just reporting the news". Rather, they are trying to shape the news, without telling us of that mission.
Here's my problem. We are a conservative blog site, and we make no bones about it. We are also pro-America and delight in the wonders of this country and the freedoms it affords us all. Anything that we write, the reader should keep these two items in the background. We put that out front so that everyone will know.
The MSM outlets.....they continue to preach that they only report the news.
Oh really? What about this?
Photographer: Jaoo Silver
A sniper loyal to Shiite cleric Mogtada al Sadr fires towards U.S. positions in the cemetary in Najaf, Iraq.
Michelle McNally: "Right there with the Mahdi Army. Incredible Courage."
Now for my beef....I think that this is despicable! (H/T: Little Green Footballs)
Continue reading "Is the MSM American? How about pro-American?" »
Today brings the annual celebration commemorating the birth of our great Nation. The above words, by Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence, could be called, in today’s lexicon, America’s “mission statement.” The main purpose of our government is to DEFEND rights that we all possess at that instant of our creation. Government cannot grant to us rights that we already have. This was declared to the world on July 4th, 1776. Life, liberty, happiness- all will be defended by the very people who possess it, as they see fit.
I read a lot of blogs pretty much most days. This entry from Thomas Sowell caught my eye, and while it is talking mostly about the NYT and the lack of concern / the overabundance of hubris, for me the money quote is this:
Patriotism is not chic in the circles of those who assume the role of citizens of the world, whether they are discussing immigration or giving aid and comfort to the enemy in wartime.
The decline and fall of the Roman Empire was as much due to the internal disintegration of the ties that bind a society together as to the assaults of the Romans' external enemies.
The pride of being a Roman citizen was destroyed by cheapening that citizenship by giving it to too many other people. The sense of duty and loyalty eroded among both the elites and the masses.
Without such things, there could be no Roman Empire. Ultimately, without such things, there can be no United States of America. In neither case have tangible wealth and power been enough to save a country or a civilization, for the tangibles do not work without the intangibles.
In my mind's eye, true Patriotism is putting your country ahead of any other. Patriotism is fully believing in the ideals and potential of your country to the exclusion of others, and willing to make a stand for those beliefs even when unpopular. And Patriotism is willing, when and if necessary, to put your country ahead of your needs.
That is not to say that the ills of your country are swept under the rug; nay, one works to correct those ills. However, while doing so, one advances, publicizing and dissemimates the positives.
This past Saturday, I attended the One Voice (www.onevoiceministries.org) Celebrate America! concert – an old fashioned patriotic celebration whose theme was “America – my home” and standing with our Founders on the premise that it is God who has so blessed our Nation. Seeing the flags and listening to the songs, I was stirred to put away my “working” column for this instead. I realized, once again, how fortunate we are to live in this great country, warts and all. There is no perfect place; even America has its bad with the good. Yet because some constantly dwell only on the negative, they believe it overwhelms that goodness. And I am tired of taking it on the chin because of it!
Nativist, xenophobe, bigot, unsophisticated - pejoratives used by those who consider outward displays of affection for our country as beneath them (especially those that besmirch it)
There are those Americans out there on the 'Net that REALLY don't like this country. For them, instead of being in celebratory mood (as it is Independence Day – 1), this just gives them another rant for the day. What an unhappy way to go through life....never seeing the positive for the negative. Hat tip: Little Green Footballs)
And read this snippet from Right Wing News about this phenomena....
A Liberal once wrote a piece that was obviously against the war. In it, the writer asked three questions:
Where in our constitution does it say that the purpose of our military is to invade sovereign nations for the purpose of deposing their leaders and changing their political system?
Truthfully, would you have supported this invasion if you had been told back in 2002 that the mission was to bring democracy to the Iraqi people, even though we had not been invited to do so?
Finally, if you believe in this mission, whatever it really is, are you willing to die or send your children to die for it?
Good questions; very thoughtful questions as they get to the heart of how one feels about their political system and especially about the mission and purpose of this country and how it applies to someone at the personal level. I was compelled to think when I read it (although, to be sure, some of it was a bit in anger given how the questions were phrased) and in formulating my answers.
The way I responded was....
