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Just a simple curmudgeon observing life in the USA. I post to my blog regularly at http://crankyblog.com. |
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Comments on all articles by Missing Link (4,105)      Missing Link  NBC Coverage of the Democratic Convention Stinks Comment by Terry Mitchell (1,231)  Terry Mitchell   (18 hours 50 minutes ago.)I was responding to James' comments about Warner.
Comment by Terry Mitchell (1,231) Terry Mitchell (18 hours 51 minutes ago.)Hmmm .... I thought C-SPAN came with even the most basic of cable packages.
Anonymous: (20 hours 38 minutes ago.) Terry, I actually didn't give an opinion on Warner. Sorry if I wasn't clear, I was on a bit of a rant against NBC!
ML
Comment by Terry Mitchell (1,231) Terry Mitchell (22 hours 52 minutes ago.) I have a suggestion. Watch political conventions on C-SPAN.
Anonymous: (20 hours 40 minutes ago.) I only buy basic cable, I get all the bad news I can stomach on 13 channels!
ML
Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391)  James P Krehbiel (2 days 16 hours ago.)ML,
Calm down now! I must admit that my wife and I were PO'D that "the cowboy" Montana governor was not aired. Compared to that "cream-puff" Mark Warner, he appeared to be quite passionate in differentiating political party distinctions. My biggest disappointment, beyond the NBC team, was the Warner guy. He wasn't an afterthought, he was SUPPOSED to be the keynote speaker! "Mr. Corporate" bored me to death with his self-serving mumbo-jumbo. I wanted to give him the hook! Nice work ML.
Anonymous: (2 days 15 hours ago.) Thanks James, didn't know I'd gotten so riled up!
ML
Comment by Terry Mitchell (1,231) Terry Mitchell (22 hours 46 minutes ago.)Your opinion of Warner is very curious. He's one of the few Democrats I actually like. He was one of the best and most popular governors in the history of the state of Virginia. He's going to win a Senate seat this year in a landslide against one of the worst (I regret to say) governors in Virginia's history, Republican Jim Gilmore. He will be a future presidential candidate, perhaps as soon as 2012, if Obama loses in November. That's not just speculation -- that's a guarantee.
Cameron Strang Allowed Politics to Trump Prayer Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (7 days 9 hours ago.)ML,
I can only assume that Mr. Strang started thinking about his reading audience and what they would think about him appearing before Democrats whose platform might offend some of his constituency. What a wasted opportunity to share the Gospel by being exclusive rather than inclusive. Sounds like the same old right wing political posturing. In an unrelated matter, since when is Rick Warren's beliefs the litmus test for who should end up in the White House? Nicely done piece. I love reading your stuff.
Summer's End Comment by Dianne Lehmann (2,587)  Dianne Lehmann (8 days 17 hours ago.)Hi ML. Well, you certainly paid good attention in her class! Excellent article and tribute to a dedicated teacher.
Dianne
Anonymous: (8 days 16 hours ago.) I was afraid not to! She had a good heart and we all became very devoted to her.
ML
McCain/Lieberman 2008 = Smoke and Mirrors Anonymous: (9 days 12 hours ago.) Hi James, I'm not sure if McCain can get along without help in lots of areas. He's strong on defense, but outside that I don't see much substance. Thanks for the comment.
ML
Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (9 days 13 hours ago.)How funny but true! My wife is Jewish and I tease her all the the time about Joe. He's quite the pathetic man as he hangs on the coattails of McCain along with Lindsey Graham. Do you think McCain can get along without Joe to correct his foreign policy slips? Good piece.
Like a Penny Looking for Change Comment by Missing Link (4,105) Missing Link (12 days 15 hours ago.)Thank you Sandra! I had never heard the saying before I met that professor, maybe it was his creation.
ML
Comment by Sandra E. Graham (1,382)  Sandra E. Graham (13 days 12 hours ago.)I loved that--'like a penny looking for change'. I must be really slow, this is the first time I have heard that and I've heard a lot of descriptions for people without a clue, but this was new to me. Great article, by the way, ML
Sandra.
The Medical Bubble is Going to Burst Anonymous: (15 days 19 hours ago.) Missing ,I can only say strange that our President doesn't see a problem at all. Oh well perhaps it is that Silver Spoon they either were born with or have aquired? Yes and PS let them come out from behind the rock they hide under and deal with real average American problems. Best wishes. Robert
robert melaccio sr.: (16 days 15 hours ago.) Missing, you mean it hasn't burst already? I'm living it first hand. In fact I consider you an intelligent person Missing, I don;t know if you aprpeciate that or not but I do. yet let me ask is not everything ready to burst? If correct in that opinion, then what is the next step? Ah, the real question. I think i have written to that many a time and I see it not too far away. Best wishes.
Anonymous: (16 days 13 hours ago.) Hi Robert,
You could be right. Not sure, but everything economically feels pretty well deflated on my end of the world.
ML
Comcast is a Miserable Bunch of Bastards Comment by Ingrid Weir (957)   Ingrid Weir (17 days 19 hours ago.)
First, it is illegal for collection agencies to call cell phones. I am assuming that you have told them that it is a cell phone. Of course, it is illegal to harass you period... even if it is your bill, and it is definitely illegal to harass you if it isn't even your bill.
You must notify them in writing in most states, however.
Have you filed a complaint at the FTC website?
ftc.gov/ftc/cmplanding.shtm
Hopefully you can get it worked out quickly, and Comcast will fix this very dishonest practice that seems like an awful waste of time and money for its employees, as well. I mean, really... can't they just put in a number like 555-555-1092 like in the movies? Anonymous: (17 days 17 hours ago.) Thanks for the feedback Ingrid!
ML
McCain v. Obama = A Dirt Clod Throwing Contest Joshua Cohen from Manhattan: (18 days 11 hours ago.)  Nice article, but I'm tired of the overused word, change without substative plans laid out. Obama, says he'll bring change, his track record indicates he has supported every tax break he has had a chance to vote on so I don't want that change! He won't support off-shore drilling, what does he support? Change!
Comcast is a Miserable Bunch of Bastards Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457)  Robert Melaccio, Sr. (18 days 15 hours ago.) Missing - I'd check with the FCC and file a complaint and also any state agency you may have and your attorney general. I had the same problem, it is quite common and until one has it they just do not know. You probably already understand there is no real "consumer protection" and suit, well it is all about civil and small claims. Not many lawyers want to even bother. Also a cease and desist letter, RRR should stop the calls. That is until they sell the debt to another. Look I'm no lawyer and you should check, but if not your debt then be careful what you say to them. Good luck.
Anonymous: (18 days 11 hours ago.) Thanks for the good advice Robert!
ML
Paris Hilton versus John McCain Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (18 days 17 hours ago.)Yes Missing , she has all the qualifications when we consider reasoning, weighing of outcomes and certainly no worse then what we currently have in office. Certainly experience, looks, and well experience and then again, experience and yes looks are all that is necessary today. Yes we can see the future now and see those dignitaries being tied in knots by her. Hey in my opinion we can do no worse.
Anonymous: (18 days 17 hours ago.) LOL Robert, thanks for the comment!
ML Comcast is a Miserable Bunch of Bastards Anonymous: (19 days 2 hours ago.)
You're not going to change Comcast unless you commit a full time effort for many years to do so. Do you really want to spend that much time being mad at them? If so, enjoy yourself. If not, cancel that phone, and get a prepaid phone that does not require a credit check - and get on with your life..
In other words, learn to play dodgeball. Anonymous: (18 days 20 hours ago.) My post has actually produced a possible solution. Comcast has a man who is hired to look online for just these type of articles and then work to resolve the issue. We have exchanged emails and now I am waiting for a resolution.
ML
Paris Hilton versus John McCain Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (19 days 16 hours ago.)ML,
Hands down, Paris won! Any future McCain campaign comedy routines are being withdrawn. It's all serious now! No more taking the air out of the tires! Good read. Thanks.
Anonymous: (19 days 16 hours ago.) Hi James,
Thanks for the comment. I think McCain needs to avoid comedy, he's out of his league.
ML
McCain's New Campaign Strategy is Humor? Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (24 days 7 hours ago.)Hey, he appeared loosy-goosy with the NASCAR gang today in S. Dakota. He even suggested that his wife enter the Buffalo Chips Beauty Contest even if it's a bare naked ladies event. Let's get down and dirty! Even Paris Hilton came out and aired a campaign ad today. Maybe you are on to something? Remember George Carlin? Forget the economy and foreign affairs - it's too painful!
Anonymous: (24 days 7 hours ago.) Ha! I like it James, I think the idea has legs!
ML
The Race Card Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (25 days 17 hours ago.)Great article. Corsi's book is more swift-boating! If you have time, check my brief article on Newsvine, John McCain Plays the Studio Wrestling Game. Take care.
Anonymous: (25 days 17 hours ago.) Thanks James, I'll check out your article!
ML
Kii Kynzer from Out There USA: (26 days 2 hours ago.) Be sure to read the book THE OBAMA NATION by Corsi. Lots is known about McCain, and llittle about Obama. I post regularly at The Freedom Platform. As a cardgame this election is lousy. Kii Kynzer
Anonymous: (25 days 18 hours ago.) Thanks for your comment, I'll look for that book! ML
The Old Man and The Bomb Jane Bullard: (33 days 22 hours ago.) 
Hi, Missing Link - You are so right. So many untold stories. I loved your description of the landscape where you and this neighbor lived and met over the fence...and the cigar. I could picture the chin stubble. Many people who are at the heart of things in time of war rarely talk about it. My brother who went to war when I was barely walking is only now talking at all about air battles he had alone in his P-38 in Europe and N. Africa in WWII. He has told his sons more, in private. Thanks for this article. I once lived in Oak Ridge, TN long after those times and my husband's work took him to a site known as Site 2 as I recall, where nuclear research was and maybe still is going on. I'm not sure what Site 2 was/is for, so there's not much reliable info there. It's all public now anyway, I think. Anonymous: (32 days 20 hours ago.) Hi Jane,
Thanks for your comment. I never got to speak to this man about how he felt about the bomb being dropped and most likely he wouldn't have engaged with me on that level. Some friends of my folks were an older couple and the man had been a fighter pilot in WWII. He was an "ACE" but he never wanted to talk about his experience beyond confirming that he flew and fought. War damages everyone, the winners and the losers at some fundamental level. Too bad we never learn the lessons of War.
McCain v. Obama = A Dirt Clod Throwing Contest Jane Bullard: (34 days 14 hours ago.)
Hi, ML - your article helped me consider. The first bad economic time I remember was when I was in my 20s--the Carter years when interest rates were at 17% at one point. Down the road farther now, I'm looking at broader issues because I think that the American people need to look beyond their personal needs more (I hope we still believe we can take care of ourselves, with God's help), and we need a president and congress that will do the same. The quote of JFK "ask not" - keeps being said but no one wants to live it. Glad you wrote an article that spurred reaction. Thanks. Anonymous: (32 days 20 hours ago.) Thank you for your comment Jane!
Health Care in America Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (34 days 18 hours ago.)Great article at a timely moment. Opinions based by experience and fact and come Monday my article will be int he hands of the State of Florida. Joint Commission a facade, doctors, above us all, leave the word "care" out following health and use money. Case management, what? People, well they pay the bills. Let anyone and I do mean anyone come and talk to me about care. Yes there are many but then again today and in my opinion it is more about "a job". Best wishes from a totally abused family.
Anonymous: (34 days 17 hours ago.) Thanks for your comment Robert. Hope that you and your family find some peace!
The Old Man and The Bomb Comment by Susan Thom (8,330)   Susan Thom (35 days 3 hours ago.)hi missing link,
i often wished my dad had talked more about his Marine time in japan, and i wish i had known my grandfathers, but i didn't. this was a well written, interesting article. thanks for sharng,
best regards,
sue thom
Anonymous: (34 days 19 hours ago.) Thank you Susan!
ML
Comment by Dianne Lehmann (2,587) Dianne Lehmann (35 days 12 hours ago.)Hi. A very interesting story, nicely written. You are right about the stories. I've known so many people whom I thought should write a book. Some of the best times I ever had working in retail was listening to the stories of the older folks who came in. The most ordinary seeming people can have the most extraordinary stories to tell.
Thanks for sharing,
Dianne
Anonymous: (35 days 12 hours ago.) Thank you Dianne, it is a shame that so much history goes untold.
Comment by David Tanguay (5,817)  David Tanguay (35 days 16 hours ago.)Very interesting story, I enjoyed reading it. thank you
Anonymous: (35 days 16 hours ago.) Thanks David
Dear Dad, Don't Leave Iris Taub from Parkland, Florida: (39 days 13 hours ago.) It is sad that you feel that sending this article to your father serves no purpose. I disagree. I think he needs to hear how you felt all those years ago. As far as not fitting into the step families, my heart goes out to you as well. My son married a woman with a son who I immediately bonded with and since he was my first grandchild, he knows how special he is in my eyes.
I now have three other grandchildren and I don't feel any difference between him and the ones who were biologically added to the family. Yes, Marriage is tough and it does have it's set of up and downs. Obviously we don't know what kind of relationship your parents had and although I believe in trying to make things work, I also believe that sometimes it is better to leave if there is constant fighting. I also feel it is never too late to find happiness and as far as having children, you don't have to father a child to be a Dad. Good luck and hopefully you will find that someone special to share your life with.
Iris Taub,
Anonymous: (39 days 9 hours ago.) Thank you for your comments Iris.
ML
We Need a Significant Emotional Event Comment by Sandra E. Graham (1,382) Sandra E. Graham (43 days 14 hours ago.)Great article, Mr. Link. I guess my 'significant emotional event' was the realization that myself and my husband were getting old and had a bleak future outlook if we didn't do something in a hurry. We stopped buying and started paying off instead. By the time he retired several years ago, we had our house and land paid off. I had a few years left so I purchased some items that I knew we would need in the future and began paying them off. Now I'm retired and we are living comfortably on our retirement income. But now, yes, I do feel guilty because I didn't try to do something when I saw all the red flags popping up everywhere and because I didn't; I may be ok, but what about my children and grandchildren? What we leave them will not be enough to ensure a good future for them.
Sandra
Anonymous: (43 days 14 hours ago.) Thank you Sandra! Our kids will be OK after we get past this, which I have no doubt we will. The sooner we face the problems, learn the lessons, and make the changes, the sooner economic life can go forward.
ML
Judgment Belongs to God, Not to Man Teresa Ortiz: (44 days 8 hours ago.) Great article! Well said. We are called to judge situations whether they are healthy for us or not; whether what WE are doing is in line with what we claim to believe. There is a big difference between judgement and condemnation. And as you stated, unfortunately too many people use the Bible as a means of evaluating the way others live. Like Jesus said, take the log out of your own eye first, and then you will clearly see the speck in your brothers. Thanks for a well-written article. I personally love to study the Bible and the more I learn, the more I realize I still don't know, hense continuous study, growing in grace and humility and love and living the standard that God called me to. Personally, I am way to busy getting my own act together, so I don't have time nor the energy to condemn others. But, judging from right and wrong--that is different God told us to do that based on His principles for living. God bless!
Anonymous: (44 days 7 hours ago.) Thank you for your thoughtful comment Teresa.
In Abbas Embrace,
ML
We Need a Significant Emotional Event Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (44 days 11 hours ago.)Missing link an excellent article that hit many nails on the head. Where was the government? Well there are many people who would most likely say doing exactly what they intended to do. Are these not powerful, wealthy and highly educated people, educated in the finest schools and by elite tutors? Can they be so inept? So just what are we wondering about? Hitler took years to bring about his society and eventual destruction. The communists the same. Things do not evolve overnight they are brought about by design. Education, indoctrination and building beliefs that are bought into being by the masses. The American dream of more and more the ideal platform for the Keynesian principal of spend, spend, spend and when in trouble spend more. So now we move to the next phase. What is it? Well it is there for those who wish to know but think Global. Good job.
Anonymous: (44 days 11 hours ago.) Thank you Robert!
ML
Comment by Roschelle Nelson (803)  Roschelle Nelson (45 days 11 hours ago.)I totally agree with Avis. Excellent article. Anonymous: (45 days 11 hours ago.) Thank you Roschelle!
ML
Avis Ward from South Carolina: (45 days 14 hours ago.) ML, you will get no argument from me. Since we tend to transfer responsibility for our actions to others, lessons are rarely learned and certainly not when we're bailed out during training! Exceptional point of view and very well-written. Thanks. Anonymous: (45 days 13 hours ago.) Thank you Avis! I didn't hear anything new from our President today so I guess we need to buckle in for a while yet. Jesse Jackson is Mired in the 60's Comment by Roschelle Nelson (803) Roschelle Nelson (46 days 6 hours ago.)This is a good article. A can relate to what you are saying and it's definitely something to think about. Dear Dad, Don't Leave Comment by Judi Lake (2,231)  Judi Lake (46 days 10 hours ago.)ML -- I can't respond because the tears are flowing to heavily; your heart screamed through your words; if I weren't virtual, I'd give you a tight warm hug. Maybe, just maybe, as you said, this can open the eyes of someone who is going through the same things - Thanks for sharing your soul with us. Anonymous: (46 days 6 hours ago.) Thanks for the virtual hug Judi. It's my hope that some Dad will read this and make a better choice before it's too late.
ML
Comment by Lorrie Davids (5,276)  Lorrie Davids (47 days 14 hours ago.)ML, Man, your story tore at my heart. I have never had to endure the kind of hurt you lived through. Nor have I ever really thought about it...we hear kids are resilient and use that to justify our choices. I don't even know what to say. I'm glad you and your dad have a relationship, but I am saddened by your story. I hope and pray your friend, and any others contemplating walking away will think again about their decision. Thanks for sharing your heart. This can't have been an easy one to write. Anonymous: (47 days 11 hours ago.) Thank you for your kind comments. I only published it so people might stop and think. I hope it will have the impact. ML sue thom from nj: (47 days 15 hours ago.) hi missing link, this was a very powerful, emotional, well written account of basically, your whole life, and the affects divorce had on it. you explained it well, my three kids are going through the same thing now, and have for many years, since their father and i stayed together so we could both be with them. whether they think of the disassociation of their parents, or of the divorce, either way, their feelings are hurt, their safety net ripped, thier respect for each parent damaged, their trust gone, and everything else you said. no words of wisdom from me will help, and i know that. but, here you are, so i am hoping they can survive as well. best regards, sue thom Anonymous: (47 days 11 hours ago.) Thanks Sue, I will include your family in my prayers tonight. Be well, ML Anonymous: (48 days 7 hours ago.) Yes Avis, I was sure hoping for a different outcome for him and his family. Comment by Avis Ward (8,717)  Avis Ward (48 days 12 hours ago.)Thanks, ML. I was okay not long after reading this article and disappointed by the end result for your friend and his family. Life sure offers enough bittersweetness, doesn't it? Comment by Avis Ward (8,717) Avis Ward (49 days 11 hours ago.)ML, you've done it now! I'm sobbing. This should be mandatory reading for every couple with children, whether married or not! Thank you for sharing yourself with us. I'm thankful with you for the blessing of having your dad in your life again. Comment by Missing Link (4,105) Missing Link (49 days 10 hours ago.)Sorry to make you cry Avis! I did it to send to my friend and it slowed down his departure by four months, but sadly he left his family. Jesse Jackson is Mired in the 60's Comment by Avis Ward (8,717) Avis Ward (50 days 12 hours ago.)Excellent and eloquent, ML. The truth hurts sometimes. Anonymous: (50 days 10 hours ago.) Thank you Avis!
ML
Who is Ready to Accept Responsibility? Comment by David Tanguay (5,817) David Tanguay (52 days 11 hours ago.)Very well said, I like your article. Anonymous: (52 days 7 hours ago.) Thank you David! Why Another Economic Bubble In Oil? Sheryl from Tasmania: (55 days 8 hours ago.) Things go up and don't go down - not when it is a commodity. The answer isn't finding more oil, it's finding alternatives. We'll still pay through the nose, but at least the world will still be suitable for us to live in. As for conspiracy theories, while i believe 'they' are always finding new ways to remove us from our hard earned money, I'm not so sure this is a bubble as such. And while governments are raking in the excise duties, they aren't the ones setting the prices; that's the oil companies. My 'conspiracy' theory is that they are getting as much as they can from oil before it's either all gone or no longer used. I'm also sure that they already have alternatives in the wings waiting to take center stage. Companies that big aren't going to see themselves left high and dry without something to sell. Anonymous: (55 days 4 hours ago.) Hi Sheryl, Thanks for your comment and insight! ML Is God Still Creating? Lloyd Walters: (59 days ago.) Is God still creating? Well if this world is anything to go I hope not. Anonymous: (58 days 20 hours ago.) Cheers Lloyd! Friendly Cat sue thom from nj: (62 days 17 hours ago.) hi missing link, i stopped watching the news a long time ago. i have enough going on and enough to worry about, i no longer want to be reminded of more intense bad situations than i already know about in our small little town. society, in general, is a scary place to be, and with 2 kids out there, trying to make it on their own, i worry alot! not to mention the 17 year old who just started feeling his oats. this was a well written, interesting article. sorry i digressed, best regards, sue thom McCain's Smokey Speech Clogs the Sacramento Valley Larry: (62 days 17 hours ago.) Who is the extreme right? Please be specific. I support smaller government with less regulation. That naturally produces a more vibrant private sector that produces better products and services. These products and services sell faster and create more revenue for the government - that is, a lower tax rate but more tax dollars because of more sales. It's simple math. This is a basic economic cycle. My thoughts on education today: It teaches us the very very basics - reading, writing, etc. It teaches us almost nothing else that we really need to know to function as adults. When is the last time an elementary school or high school taught someone how to establish and maintain good credit? Get their FICO score? Understand health insurance or auto insurance? Interview for a job? Yes, interview skills are a separate thing from job skills. Interviewing skills are necessary. Why are the high schools not teaching them? Why are the high schools not teaching identity theft prevention. Basic auto maintenance, professional money management. Why are the high schools not teaching their students how to read and thoroughly understand how much a mortgage really costs (amortization) and how to read all that legaleze and convert it to simple english? The answer is simple, the teachers don't know either, and they don't want to embarrass themselves by revealing that fact. You want our nation to be more competetive in the job market? Teach our students skills they need. Don't wait for them to go to college to learn them. Use our tax money to teach them these skills now. I mean real skills such as engineering, programming, pre med, advanced chemistry, advanced psychology, etc. You want our kids to be more competetive, teach them. Many teacher won't like this, because that will means the teachers have to learn new skills too. Are they willing to? Put your money where you mouth is. My thoughts on global warming. For those who are very concerned about making the earth too warm, stop using fossil fuels altogether. That means stop driving your car, stop using electricity, stop using natural gas, stop cooking your food, stop buying products created or processed by fossil fuels. This means no lights in your house, cold showers, eat only food you pick off the vine or pull out of the ground, walk the kids to school, stop using power tools for anything, stop wearing clothes, stop drinking coffee. For those of you who use prescription glasses, you will not be able to use them anymore - yes they are made from fossil fuels. You think I am being extreme here? YOU are telling ME my use of fossil fuels is warmimg the earth so much that we will all be DEAD within a few decades and YOU think I am being extreme? You still think I am being extreme? To all those who are afraid global warming is going to kill the planet: Put YOUR daily use of fossil fuels where YOUR mouth is, and stop using them. By the way, stop using your computer. That's right, shut it off. You should not even be reading this because you computer uses electricity generated by fossil fuels. Did you know you made the earth warmer when you bought your computer? You encouraged the manufacturer to to make more computers, which means it burns more fossil fuels. Why in the world would you want to encourage the manufacturer to burn more fossil fuels? Why are you still reading this? Put your daily use of fossil fuels where you mouth is and turn it off - now. People who are telling others the earth is dying from being too warm because we are using to much fossil fuel, are using the issue as a political football for their own political interest. How do I know this? Because if they are using fossil fuels themselves, they are contributing to the problem they warn others about? Why would anyone do that? Has anyone noticed that some environmental groups are now willing to talk to oil companies about drilling for oil? Why would they do that? Is the earth suddenly cooling off? Those environmentalists understand that there political power to prevent the oil companies from drilling is fading. They know it's time for them to use the political power they have accumulated. They will use it to pressure the oil companies and the government into giving them money and other resources. They know public opinion is shifting away from supporting their cause, so they know now is the time to use their political power to negotiate resources into their pockets, or they will lose the opportunity. It was never about global warming. It has always been about political power and the money that power attracts. Anonymous: (62 days 14 hours ago.) WOW Larry, one shot in the espresso dude! Thanks for commenting, I admire your passion! Global warming is a fact, not an opinion. The only debate is whether man is creating it or not. Most scientists think we are creating it. Even George W. has had to admit it's happening. My reference to it was made by a top NASA scientist. You'll have to take your evidence to the contrary to him. As far as putting my money where my mouth is, I am. I drive once a week to church and ride my bike everywhere else, even to business meetings. I use a fan, not an AC unit. I use flouresecent bulbs. I recycle. The scientists don't thnk we need to stop entirely Larry, just reduce our use and output of carbon dioxide. I'm doing my part, how are you doing? As far as education goes - where there is a literate, involved parent, there is usually an educated child. I do not need a Nanny state taking over my jop to teach my kids how to live. Teaching our kids useable job skills is great and it is being done well by some schools, but not all sadly. The problem is Larry that the kids outside the US are also learning these skills and their standard of living allows them to enter the workforce at a fraction of our wages. So the companies are shipping the jobs overseas. They say it is because of lack of workforce here, I say BS. I say they want to save $15 per hour per worker. I don't buy the business propoganda, our universities are full and unemployment is rising. The workers are here, they just want to be paid well enough to live here. Thanks again for the comment! Anonymous: (62 days 11 hours ago.) Larry, glad to hear that you support a smaller government that helps the private sector produce better products and services. This must mean you don't support George Bush since under his administration the government has grown tremendously and the only thing that's increased with products and services has been their prices. Friendly Cat Comment by Judi Lake (2,231) Judi Lake (62 days 17 hours ago.)ML, you do have an extraordinary flair with your writing that I truly enjoy! Since advertising is my profession, I will be the first to attest to the "spinmeisters" approach - creating panic makes news—period however, having had grown up in the 70s many things have changed including safety. Four years ago as I left my own home to pick up my daughter from school, I returned to find 3 police cars in my driveway. Because I am a caretaker for my elderly father my first reaction was panic but all was fine, thank God, with his health. What happened was that three neighboring teenage boys broke into my home and held my father up with gunpoint stealing his pension money -- that, in itself, is a lo-ong story, but these boys were not strangers to us. Being a mother of a little girl, my thoughts raced to a dozen "what if's?" -- Clearly, our world is not safer these days but a walk in a neighborhood should still constitute pleasure and not fear. Anonymous: (62 days 17 hours ago.) Hi Judi, Thank you for the wonderful complement. I agree. All of us should be able to take a walk without fear and enjoy the good cheer of our neighbors when we pass by. I just fear that the television can reinforce these once in a lifetime stories into a lifetime of fear and undue caution. My home was once burglarized by a neighbor kid and I recall how strange I felt about it, like someone had invaded my territory. Your situation must have been similar and greatly multiplied by the violence of it. I just wonder if everyone was out walking and visiting instead of glued to the bad news of the TV if someone would not have seen those boys and questioned why they were going to your home. Anyway, thanks for the thought provoking comment! ML McCain's Smokey Speech Clogs the Sacramento Valley Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (65 days 13 hours ago.)Well, you have hit on some topics dear to my heart. Expecially, the charter school business that parents have been duped into believing is the way to go. It is just one more way to promote segregated schools which appeal to many "involved" parents. Everyday we have a new John McCain. Not a new and improved one, however. Good work! Anonymous: (65 days 13 hours ago.) Thanks James! I don't know where McCain got his "personna" as a straight shooter, he's as much a chameleon as the rest of them. Willie Never Had Braces Comment by Judi Lake (2,231) Judi Lake (66 days 8 hours ago.)Oh, geez, you got me with this story, ML -- I cried throughout the entire thing. Unfortunately, I know too many "Miss Blonde in Braces" who just don't get it -- Fabulous job with an outstanding message -- Thank you! Comment by Missing Link (4,105) Missing Link (66 days 6 hours ago.)Thanks Judi, I think about Willie sometimes and hope to meet him again one day! Middle Class Mirage robert melaccio sr: (66 days 19 hours ago.) Ditto with Avis. yes it will continue becuase we aloow those who condone, like and just ,might be ignorant to ste the course. The past Goveeeernor of Ministor Ken Venturi has a new nook coming about strating a revolution. A revolution of the people. yes taking back America. We do this by, get this NOT VOTING for these candidates [how unique] yes vote them all out and replpace them. That is the only way to send a message. very good asrticle, keep em coming. best wishes. Anonymous: (66 days 18 hours ago.) Thanks Robert! Comment by Avis Ward (8,717) Avis Ward (67 days 5 hours ago.)"So the government gives away money hoping to pacify the wealthy and encourage a spending binge. The money laundering scheme is broken because wealthy people got carried away and abused the system." What's happening is far too impactful to be illusory. As you so skillfully expressed, it's a cycle that will continue until the end of time because we do not wield the power we have. Too many prefer the illusion over reality. Fine job. An enjoyable read. I like your talent! Comment by Missing Link (4,105) Missing Link (67 days 5 hours ago.)Thank you Avis! You're very kind. Missing anniesgotherguns: (67 days 12 hours ago.) I think you could have the making of a revolutionary in you! Imagine what would happen if you could lead the middle class to boycott shopping. What could happen if they did not shop and instead CREATED? They would have empty garages and have no need for storage units, because they would not have STUFF they did not use. What capacious freedom lurks in middle class America! Anonymous: (67 days 11 hours ago.) Annie, great comment...that's what the middle class is missing - freedom. And the sad thing is that we are enslaved by an idea - American Dream - when the dream is truly there in front of our noses, a beautiful land of plenty and lots of people to love all around us. So many of us don't "get it" until that last breath...I was almost in that category myself. A friend is in Venezuela on business and she described for me yesterday a walk in the park where she witnessed many hundreds of groups of people all playing together all over the park...not shopping, not watching tv getting convinced to shop, not working for money to shop, just playing games together in the park on a Sunday... Why Another Economic Bubble In Oil? Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (72 days 13 hours ago.)Missing Link, A very reasonable and smart theory! I often ponder, when will those in the middle class wake up and realize that they are being "had?" As a psychotherapist, I used to work for Managed Care companies until I realized that they were not paying me appropriately. After I stopped working for them and went to cash fee, many MCO's were eventually the target in a class action suit to recover provider's money. One day I noticed the salaries of the top CEO's in the country. United Health Care's CEO was making over 60 million a year! We have been conned by corporate greed and this political administration's economic policies. I don't think off-shore drilling is going to cut it. We are headed for a financial depression, so we better wake up soon! Anonymous: (72 days 6 hours ago.) Hi James, Thanks for the comment. It seems to me that unless we can guarantee that any offshore oil found will be used for our benefit and not sold on the world market to China and India, we ought to avoid the potential ecological problems and focus on alternative energy and simply using less. I simply do not believe that big oil isn't going to take the oil and keep the prices right where they are anyway. Missing Advocacy Part II Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (75 days 6 hours ago.)Missing Link, Once again, an excellent article about the need for dialogue. Allan Watts, the great philosopher defined BELIEF as following a preconceived notion that takes you to your own conclusions about the way the world works. It is a BELIEF in a BELIEF. He defined FAITH as an unreserved opening to the truth wherever it may be found. In my opinion, the myth of moral superiority must cease if we are to mend fences. We need a fresh look in government where politicians speak the truth, and are willing to build a foreign policy that creates alliances not enemies. With the low approval rating of this President and McCain being an extension of that legacy, it appears that Obama will lead this country and hopefully make the needed changes by thinking through problems with the American people. The Christian right's ideological agenda, filled with self-righteous venomous talking points has slowly evaporated as a priority. Thanks again for an insightful piece. Anonymous: (74 days 21 hours ago.) Thanks for the great comment James! robert melaccios r: (75 days 15 hours ago.) Missing, not by his voting record. I guess we can hope. best RTM Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (75 days 16 hours ago.)Missing a very articlulte and good article. However, as you can expect from me, Barack Obama and John McCain model reasoned debate that leads the country toward collaborative problem solving. Missing, they are part of the problem. In my opinion you can't solve problems when you have a one way ticket. My old and tired example. We both want to get to NYC from tampa. Now we have only so many chocies when the goal has already been defined. We can fly, drive, go by train, horse ride, ballon or walk. Yet it doesn't matter how or when we are going to get to NY in the end. When and how long the only issues. If they debate the facts they must first understand them and therein lies the fallacy. Now if you talk from the perspective of a have, that is an entirely different set of issues then average and poor's. It is the root of the entire problem in this nation. Until you address the real issues you solve nothing. What are they - usury, the breaking and blatant disregaurd of law, no jobs, low wages, no industry or manufacturing, leading to all the sorry rest. Sorry, just tied of expecting the case to sit down and resolve. Missing: (75 days 15 hours ago.) Thank you for your comment Robert. I understand what you are saying and I don't disagree, I am just not sure how you change the people controlling the debate. I guess I am naiive enough to hope that someone like Obama might be the change agent slipping in through the side door. U.S. Economy: Fear of Falling Comment by Robert Melaccio, Sr. (4,457) Robert Melaccio, Sr. (82 days 12 hours ago.)Good article but the point missed in my opinion is not afraid of spending money. Lest we forget even during the depression there were people with money. No the average and poor and the lower middle class as they like to call it no longer have any money. They are hanging on. the non Credit Worthy, the irresponsible not responsible types and I do mean hanging. Is the fan still running because something is about to hit it big time. No credit, homes worth nothing, Forclosures are going to gop up not down, no money to rent, to fix, to put gas in the car, credit debt at 31.9 and higher, and on and on and on. No people are not afraid they just don't have. Its strange as I read I now am seeking what I have been saying for years in all my writings "the have and the have not'. Its wonders what these highly educated types latch onto. Good job though. best wishes. RTM Anonymous: (81 days 19 hours ago.) Thanks for commenting Robert! I definitely agree that there is a huge element of irresponsibility and greed at play in many of the personal stories out there. I guess the scary part fo me is that this greed was fostered and aided by the real estate bubble created by the mortgage industry. Now the whole mess is impacting all of us even if we weren't participating in the feeding frenzy. Be Well! Barack Obama's Church: Climbing the Ladder Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (83 days 12 hours ago.)Missing Link, Once again you have hit a home run. You got inside the head of Obama and the Black legacy and explained the unexplainable. I too worked in the urban schools of Chicago and have a sense of what you describe. Be well and keep writing! Anonymous: (83 days 11 hours ago.) Thank you James, I am humbled. Be well too! Anonymous: (86 days 15 hours ago.) Great insight! You served a lot of food for thought. I am a democrat, and a Clinton supporter. Now that Obama is the nominee, I will support him. However, I can see no earthly reason why he would stay in a church for 20 years exposing his daughters to such racial hatred. Those church leaders are from the dark ages in their thinking. I am a black woman and proud of it! That being said, I would never sit and listen to that kind of divisive talk. I expect more from my spiritual advisor. Obama does not have very good judgment and I suspect it comes from all the diversity he experienced growing up. He was exposed to so many different cultures I suppose he became confused so he decided to just accept people as they presented themselves without passing judgment. Again, you are very insightful. Thanks for the article. Anonymous: (86 days 15 hours ago.) Thanks for the comment and for reading my article! Advocacy Hannah Quinn from Australia: (88 days 6 hours ago.) Thanks, Missing. I'll let you know what the response was - but it will be a couple of months before I finish working here and go back home. Cheers, Hannah Anonymous: (88 days 8 hours ago.)  Hey, where'd my comment go? Is this some communist ploy? Where's my voice? Where's my anti-reflection? Where's the democracy? The horror of sensorship! Anonymous: (88 days 8 hours ago.) If this is Mr. Trombone I deleted your comment because it was addressed to me more than to the content of the article. If this isn't Mr. Trombone, then I haven't seen your comment, perhaps the web master censored it? Hannah Quinn from Australia: (88 days 8 hours ago.) Missing Link, One of the most intelligent and interesting articles I've read for some time. If you are willing, I'd like to take a copy to my philosophy group and read it to them. That won't be for awhile, though, because I'm temporarily living and working interstate. I'm building a 'dossier' of subjects to discuss and debate with them when I get back. Thank you for an excellent read. Cheers, Hannah Anonymous: (88 days 8 hours ago.) Thanks Hannah! You are welcome to use it as you wish. Missing Anonymous: (91 days 15 hours ago.) James, So true! It seems to be an issue of our times that debate has almost been replaced by advocacy. The exchange of ideas seems to be too much work. Polarization can be a dangerous development in a society of diverse cultures. Thanks for commenting! Missing Link Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (91 days 16 hours ago.)Dear Missing Link, This is an incredibly powerful article. You have said more eloquently what I have been trying to explore on this website. I believe that most people start out with a preconceived notion about how the world works and then build convictions and advocacy around a narrowly focused perspective. Those who think and reflect multidimensionally, are open to the truth wherever they find it and look at all sides of an issue before formulating their convictions. This gives one's position on any argument more integrity. I am continuously amazed at how those who "spin" refuse to reflect and question their own form of truth. Case in point is Scott McClelland who kept on spinning until he lost himself in the process. Unholy Marriage of Religion and Politics Anonymous: (103 days 2 hours ago.)  people are born gay. i know of too many young adolesents who are by nature predominately male or more predominately female. what about the incestuous relationships between Lot and his daughters?? but that's ok? stoning people to death for adultrey is ok? though we shall not kill? the bible is full of contradictions. too many to be taken seriously. it's archaic. luckily, we have progressed beyong these superstitions. Comment by Sandra E. Graham (1,382) Sandra E. Graham (103 days 8 hours ago.)Great article, Missing Link. I know we are taught by our religious leaders that homosexuality is a sin, but I really don't believe that homosexuals are homosexuals necessarily because they want to be. God made everyone, including men who love men and women who love women (physical love). Nature is a wonderful thing; but nature makes mistakes and crosses wires every day--it happens. And you are absolutely right; Jesus would not have condemned a person because that person was born homosexual any more than would condemn the adultress. What is in a person's heart and soul is what will get that person into heaven and the ones of us who make it, will not be surprised to find a few homosexuals there too. Let us 'judge not, that we be not judged'. Sandra. Comment by Robin Brown (1,505) (104 days 9 hours ago.)This is Robin, a hete-whatever married redneck from Texas scratchin' my head and thinkin' ta myself... ain't there alota judgement out there taday? What's this unholy marriage stuff? What's up? Did I miss sumpin' in da news? And if I did, I guess I was too busy havin' hanky panky with my pet lamb ta give a damn! Get over it, yall! Judge me, you'll have more fun! Comment by James P Krehbiel (1,391) James P Krehbiel (104 days 15 hours ago.)Missing link, Thank you for reinforcing a point that I have tried to make frequently on the site. Years ago, my wife attended a weekend retreat at a Catholic center. That weekend, gays who were members and officials from various churches throughout the country flew into the site to assemble and worship God. As my wife talked with participants, she discovered that they were too ashamed to address their sexual orientation within the context of their home church. They offered to let her worship with them and she was touched. Sometimes, it is difficult to reconcile our "beliefs" with experience. Churches, in my opinion, should never use the pulpit to promote their political agenda, particularly when it involves bashing others who may have different ideologies and lifestyles. Thanks for a great article! Dane Tyner from Tulsa, OK: (104 days 21 hours ago.) Okay Missing, You are right about my angry tone. It's true, I am sometimes upset by something I read. My anger is in reaction to your sarcasm about your relationship with God and the church, but most of all about your inappropriate manner of dealing with your own church leaders. Your attempt to give yourself a pass on this by saying "I did not feel it was a safe thing to do" does not wash with me. If they would do you any more harm than I have done, then perhaps you are justified. In that case, you should get out of that church immediately. You STILL are missing the point. Your argument mixes the general treatment of the sin of homosexuality with the issue of opposition to gay marriage. In case you are not aware of it, there is a powerful movement of militant homosexuals in our nation (in our world) who will not stop until everyone of us accepts homosexuality as normal, healthy and good. Many churches are complying with that agenda by practicing silence on this critical social issue. You happen to be a part of a church that is led by LEADERS who have the stuff to take a stand, even if it hacks off people in their pews, like you. They deserve more honor than they will get. Frankly, that kind of church is getting to be rarer in America. Apparently, that is good news to you. I am among those who do not view that as a good thing. I fully agree with the things you say about the church being loving and non-hypocritical regarding sinners of any flavor. Christians are called to hate sin and love the sinner, a pretty tall order. The answer is not to love sinners so much that we say nothing about their sin, or worse yet, act as if we think their sin is a cool thing. Finally, I sincerely apologize for the unfair shot at your church attendance. I have no knowledge of your participation. Please forgive me. And I appreciate your prayers. And you have mine, too. Dane Tyner from Tulsa, OK: (105 days 21 hours ago.)  Hi Missing link, Your article indicates you are missing the point. You seem to think that church leaders are supposed to create some "Kum Ba Yah moment" for your occasional visit - when you are "in town". Suppose you lived in the heat of the battle over slavery in our nation. Would you have thought it disturbing to your WORSHIP that a pastor strongly encouraged the congregation to sign a petition to end slavery. Would you have written an article then stating "If Christians don't like slavery, they shouldn't own one, shouldn't buy food from farms that have slaves, etc." It is indeed a freaking shame that in America we should have to even consider creating an ammendment to the constitution to define marriage as between a man and a woman. THAT IS THE ISSUE! Your church leaders get it. Finally, I can't help but wonder if you have even mentioned any of these concerns about "your church" to your leaders. You seem to think they are hypocritical in their attitudes about homosexuals. Perhaps they are. Read MT 18. Jesus would have you first point out that apparent hypocricy to them, before you publish an article about them on the Internet. Anonymous: (105 days 5 hours ago.) Hi Dane, Thanks for taking the time to comment. I don't think that you got my point either. My point is that holding a virtual rally at church to support the legislation to condemn gay marriage is unnecessary and it singles out one sin among all sins thereby pushing that class of sinners away from the very church that might save them. You mention the fight against slavery which was not the same thing. That was a case of helping to end oppression, not legislate in favor of it. Very opposite issues. I think it is hypocritical to say that all sins are equal, to say that people tempted by homosexuality are welcome in church and then act in a way that is contradictory. I think that pretty well defines a form of hypocrisy. If their mission is to bring all people to the cross - especially people who are far from it - relationships have to be built first. By pushing this petition in church they burn the bridge before it is built. And before you get off track again Dane, I am not saying they should be in favor of gay marriage or homosexuality. I am saying that if you are encouraging a sinner to come to the cross, you don't belittle their sin from the pulpit. You might confront them in private, counsel them in groups, fellowship with them, and so on. But Jesus didn't run out the sinners, he invited them in, he broke bread with them, he showed them love. Perhaps you are right that I should have gone to my church leaders about the issue, but I did not feel it was a safe thing to do. IN my article, I focused on the issue, I did not name my church or its leadership and my blog isn't connected to me personally outside my family. Just to set the record straight Dane, my church attendance is exemplary and insulting me on that is both inaccurate and unfair since you have no knowledge of me or my church. My church leaders are supposed to lead me in the path that Jesus laid out. That path was indicated by His new commandments to us to Love the Lord your God and Love Your Neighbor. That's everyone, not just those who you feel comfortable with. Your tone indicates a lot of anger Dane, it's hard to love in anger. I will pray for you. Missing LInk Comment by Terry Mitchell (1,231) Terry Mitchell (104 days 4 hours ago.)Dane, you are exactly right. I couldn't have said it better myself. God bless you sir. Comment by Ken McCreless (238)   Ken McCreless (106 days 15 hours ago.)Great article. Faith without works is dead, but I agree with you. The effort needs to be directed at more "Holy" pursuits. As for me, I'm always leery of someone so passionate to attack a group of folks like that. Like Jimmy Swaggart preaching against adultery. Write on, Sir! Comment by Susan Thom (8,330) Susan Thom (107 days 5 hours ago.)hi missing link, this was a well written, interesting article. i relate to thinking along the same way. i've written about the way i feel. and you just did, very eloquently. thanks for sharing, best regards, sue thom Anonymous: (106 days 21 hours ago.) Thank you Sue! MissingLink |
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