I bet you do not do the courtesy of a reach around!

Over on Blackwatch's blog (linked) we were discussing how California now has homosexual marriage. I was curious how Gov. Arnold stood, and was shocked.

“Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger told a group of gay Republicans on Friday that an attempt to ban same-sex marriage by changing the state Constitution is a "total waste of time" and promised to oppose such an initiative if it qualifies for the state ballot.” LA Times

Gay Republicans!???!!  Sorry, I hit my head when I fainted.

Then it was mentioned that gay marriage is not federally recognized, so I can see it now, here comes the lawsuits. Married openly homosexual people trying to enlist in the service. Married federal employees like postal workers trying to attach his/her spouse to federal benefits. Then states that have banned gay marriage, they will not be able to divorce in non-gay marriage states, more lawsuits.

I do understand how some will be upset because they do not support homosexuality, as is their right, but they will in some fashion be paying for lawsuits.

On the other side they say observe the civil rights progress of non whites, as most people today think racists are loony and disgusting.

As much as I hate the idea of the Feds telling states what to do, this appears it is going to be a reenactment of the 60’s civil rights stuff.  

Of course knowing me you know my stand. You want a "waltons marriage" cool! You want an heretosexual yet nontraditional marriage cool, if you are bi, poly, upsidedown, downsidup, bald, or dress like a squirrel, it is your business. The only people who can define yoru relationship is you. We should all have equal protection of the law. Just dont shove your stuff down others people's throat, and don't play the offended at every turn game either.

 

Whew I am not a cold-hearted mean, cruel, evil, amoral individual. Anyone who knows me knows I love seafood. Yummy! Being fathers day guess who gets to pick dinner. Woo hoo!

One draw back about seafood that haunted me in the back of my mind. To cook shellfish they take the crab or lobster, and throw it in a pot of boiling water alive. Some claim to hear it go EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Being the overtly macho guy I am, I think that is terrible I can’t do that to a living thing!  You can hit it between the eyes with an ice pick before boiling, but I doubt many go to the trouble.

Hurrrray for research, and the evidence. A meta-study of literature, EKG & brainwave studies show that they do not suffer. Crustaceans are relatively unchanged for over a billion years, they survive as is and had no reason to change. They are in no way direct ancestors.  More importantly they are nothing more than bugs we are not grossed out eating.

Their nervous system is primitive and it has a nerve bundle not a brain. It can do very very simple learning, but most of its reaction is instinct not thought. So when it thrashes for a few seconds it is reflex not suffering, the nerves and brain cannot register pain, just a rapid temperature change.  The screaming sound is steam going through the shell. Where a higher animal would be terrified, a lobster can’t be, it is not equipped to be.

Yes much of this research was to investigate PETA claims. PETA claims that dropping a pig or a dog into boiling water is the same as a lobster. No it is not, a dog or a pig will suffer and be terrified as they are highly evolved animals with excellent brains and nervous systems. So PETA’s full-page ad is essentially bunk. Say straw man!

I support not being cruel to animals, but when we can eat with no more guilt than squishing a spider, that is different.  A cabbage feels no more suffering being picked, than a lobster being cooked. Crabs are essentially spiders, actually less evolved than spiders. Spiders are much more intelligent tests have shown, some scientists wonder why they never became sentient, they are predatory and can grasp like our early ancestors did, and they do think strategically. (Cold bloodedness and un-evolved respiratory system is probably the answer to no higher evolution)

So pass the plate and some drink, I am not an evil bastard for enjoying my seafood.

 

After about a month of of getting anti Obama stuff forwarded to me (no I am not giving names) I finally got a Dem response forwarded to me (no I am not giving names).

The attack dogs are out already I see.

No I have not decided if I am going to be party loyal and Vote Bob Barr, or Write in Ron Paul. Besides it does not matter, McCain will pull 70% and win Idaho.

Remember that classic Star Trek episode where the Enterprise is taken over by an android called #1, and taken to planet Mudd, where they encounter Harry Mudd yet again.  They find out that Mudd is not responsible for situation and he is as prisoner as much as Kirk and others are.  The con man got swindled.

They discover the androids are going to take over by "serving" others and giving everyone exactly what they want. Kirk and Spock are of course very concerned because the plan will work. Spock sees this as a very logical way to conquer people, they will be subdued before they realize what has happened.  People will be absolutely dependant on the androids for survival. People would no longer have food, freedom to travel, or even weapons. No way to assert their will.

Many people seem to think that government and leaders are responsible to hand out "stuff" for the good of all.  Many seem to want the androids in real life, then they can be fat and happy, and watch more tv. Of course we have no androids, but we have those who will pretend to serve and subdue until you no longer have the will or ability to assert your legal rights.

It often seems the trend today is to rename issues or legislation with deceitful opposite of what they really are.  Like calling opportunity a new government program that will favor the few, and handicap the rest.

When I go into a job interview the employer wants to see measurable, tangible qualifications and accomplishments. We all keep our resumes in the positive light, but fairy tale flights of fantasy will get you thrown out of an interview in disgrace. However we are allowing politicians to apply for jobs with LA LA Land resumes, and poorly hidden agendas. (If not flat out lies) Agendas that are not providing opportunity to "we the people."

Back to the Star Trek episode the Enterprise crew confused the androids with nonsense and e non sequiturs " I am a liar, everything I say is a lie!" Which is the truth, but can't be the truth because everything is a lie, but yet it is true that you lie.

With politicians it is the opposite. Politicians are throwing non sequiturs at us, and the only way to defeat them is logic. Action is the only real, measurable, and comparative truth we have. If you are measured by reality on your job, why not hold politicians to the same standard?

Government really only wants to serve to take away, more we require of government the less we can do for ourselves. Even if we only lose 1% of our freedoms per year based on the starting point, we are slaves within a century.

 

We know the Star Trek series, and can quote “beam me up Scotty” “Resistance is futile” “make it so” Just for fun and to relax from all the political debate, but yet be who we are and enjoy politics, and the “other camps of thought.” I thought it would be entertaining to look at Star Trek from political perspective of Liberal, Conservative, & Libertarian. My quotes may not be word for word accurate.

 

Star Trek as a “Liberal” Show.

“Earth is a paradise, we have eliminated hunger, homelessness, & disease”...Sisko

“I love you, I do not care what they think you are”…Rikker (figures huh lol)

“Men of peace usually are brave”.. Spock

“We don’t use money in the 23^rd century”…. Kirk

“Torture is outdated and ineffective, no real civilization uses it”…Picard

“Keep your prejudices in your quarters mister” Kirk

"DO not go beyond warp 5, we are destroying the universe" A Scientist

 

The technology has reached a point that people no longer need money, everyone can pursue their passion your survival is a given. Arts and culture are alive and well. So well that even Klingons run around quoting Shakespeare.  Society does not judge Black, White, Asian, Blue, Red, Green, Homosexual, Straight, in between.  People are judged by their character not color of skin. Scientist travel and study those strange new worlds, and new life forms.  Medical care is free, as is shelter, and food, just walk to a computer and ask for it. Liberal Paradise!

 

 

Star Trek as a “Conservative” show

“You can’t let some machine take our jobs, there are certain things we must do to remain men” Kirk

“Excellence is expected, anything beyond that does you credit” Picard

“You are a coward, and you have no honor, get out of my sight”  Worf

“I don’t wage war with computers, I wage the real thing” Kirk

“The honor is to serve” “Your service honors us” Picard and Serek greeting each other

“As long as you wear that uniform, you word is good” Sisko

“We all ask a father, a brother, a god, why am I here?” Spock

“You will just exist living on the charity of others” Odo

 

A free lunch did not build an advanced star fleet.  Not every race is happy to see star fleet, and some aliens find it something useful to consume and conquer.  Smiling happy aliens would make for a very boring show, and is not reality.  Star Fleet has a strict code of honor and ethics, those that break them, even with the best intentions are not treated with respect.  Earth might have some fat lazies remaining, but on a ship you can escape all that.  In spite of all the technology and social tolerance, respect is still gotten the old fashioned way, they earn it.  Buzzwords like discipline, service and honor are alive and well in the future as seen by Star Trek. 

 

Star Trek as a Libertarian show.

“Our culture is based on freedom and self determination” Picard

“No disrespect, but my career choices are my own business” Rikker

“We are here to ascertain my right to choose” Data

“I will work with you, and fight for you, but I don’t like you” Worf

 

Star Treks prime directive of no interference is a pure Libertarian statement.  Based on the old west, Star trek is a western with space ships, a wagon train to the stars. Often having to improvise as you go to survive, day by day.  Civil rights are often the main topic of the show. Does this race have the right to do this that or the other, does the individual have the right to do or say certain things? Often self-restraint and ethics are the only law for light years.  Star Trek asserts that all discipline is internal, not out side force can truly make you do anything. The other sides right to law and due process stop Star Fleet from blowing the other guys to kingdom come. Nobody really cares about your race, preference, or even quirks, as long as you contribute, and be the best of your chosen path.

 

So which do you think Star Trek is? If you like the show you might claim it, if not give it to another political belief.

 

I am certain the show was for all people, since few people fall purely into any one stereotype.  A liberal has honor and can fight fiercely for a just cause. Conservatives enjoy arts and culture, and despise racism. 

 

Star trek is what our nation (planet) should be about. We all work together to improve the quality of life. We will never agree on how to get there, but if we play/fight fair at least you are honorable at all times.  The odd quirks and point of view of someone from a place you dislike might just save you one day.

 

We need the opposing points of view to stop any political or social monopoly. That is what brings back oppression and the dark ages. Losing our right to say no, once you cannot say no, you are a slave. No matter how friendly or benign the monopoly force claims to be, the truth of it is you are a slave.  Saying no has cost those brave few alot, but we thank them for it.

 

Harmless beliefs one does not agree with are trivial so long as no force is used. Becoming advanced beings will mean picking battles wisely knowing that in the end the truth will show beyond all doubt. Truth is something we all need, and can learn from, Liberal, Conservative, or Libertarian.

 

 

 

AGree with the message but not the delivery method.

You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot help little men by tearing down big men.
You cannot lift the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer.
You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn.
You cannot build character and courage by destroying men's initiative and independence.
And you cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they can and should do for themselves.
William J. H. Boetcker (1873 – 1962)

As most people that know me understand that I am not religious. However I also do not smoke, do dope, and rarely drink. I say if what you do do don't do does not bother anyone else what does it matter?

Speaking as a secularist, I was actually upset over the court case and challenging God in the pledge of allegiance.  And for an atheists to challenge it?? It would make more sense of a Buddhist or the like to be upset over "God" rather than an atheists. I do not feel it is shoving God down your throat because God is a personal choice and the relationship people have with God is an individual thing. One can simply replace God with a word they feel fits better. One nation under law or something like that. Those that want God can have, one that don't, don't have to either.

I often look at religion like this. I do celebrate Christmas. When I hang up a picture of Santa Claus do I literally think a fat man in a red suit will actually fly around delivering presents? Well no, but it represents giving, family, happiness, self reflection. Same qualities people seek in their religion and relationship with God.

The taking the Ten Commandments out of the courthouse.  To an atheists would it not be the same as a picture of the Tooth Fairy in the court house?  Besides only about 40% of the commandments apply to court. Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not commit adultery, & thou shalt not bear false witness. If people did not do those things the court would not be very busy anyway, not much need of a court house to begin with.

Here in Boise we have a big light up cross over looking the city.  Some atheist from Chicago filed a suit over it. That really ticked me off.  He did not even live here, and again as an atheist why would it matter.  We all share the city, and a vast majority what the cross there. They look up on a bad day and see the light both literally and figuratively.  I am happy they found their religion. People need peace, joy, and hope, and the others of the city are entitled to it. It is not a Nazi swastika or a bird flipping finger. It far from offends me, and actually the door to door missionaries have bothered me alot More than a light up cross.

Prayer in school and Intelligent Design are separate issues from the PoA.  Others saying God in PoA is not a prayer, but an affirmation of beliefs of principles of our nation. Those who want God in it, say it as such, those that don't, don't. Neither side needs to force or make a huge deal about something simple.  Freedom of religion is freedom from it, but liek free speech, you do nto have a right to be unoffended. The fools who go looking to be offended to be on the news and make dumb drama, a different story fro a different day.

I hope our country goes back to a live and let live philosophy.

 

Bad Language Alert!

Kooks exercising free speech.

Celebrity Libertarians

warning: BAD LANGUAGE!

Ok this might qualify as a political post, but the whole issue should be a concern to everyone no matter what your issues are.  A violation of rights should be a big red flag for anyone and everyone.

Not many of you might be familiar with Liberty Dollars. They are a private coins and certificates that are backed by precious metals.  They also have E note similar to E-Gold they can be used like PayPal to other members and swap notes. Some merchants will accept them as “money” and you can shop using the Liberty Dollars.  http://www.libertydollar.org

They never claim to be “legal tender,” legal tender is money that represents the U.S. government and the public debt.  Before Thanksgiving the FBI and Secret Service raided the headquarters of Liberty Dollars, and confiscated all the records, customer lists, and worse yet, the government agents took all the gold and other precious metals in their vault. The government claims they were “issuing money” and only legal tender approved by the government can be used for exchange and thus violating the law.  Taking the assets has basically broken the business, they are begging for donations to fight the government for the return of the assets. Everyone who has note in Liberty Dollars lost the value, and now have a pretty piece of paper.

Ok so next question, is Disney going to be raided next because of Disney Dollars are used at Disney parks for ride, food, and gifts? What about hotels and casinos?  Then what about gift cards and preloaded ATM cards?  For that fact what about hand written store credits we are given at times? Finally what about chocolate coins? Playing a game of monopoly? Are kids playing store with play money going to get busted?

I know I am getting carried away with the ridiculousness, but am I? Why would the government be so worried about private exchange?  People barter all the time.  The term dollar is not patented.  The web site does promote it as ‘alternative currency” and explains how Fed Reserve Dollars are fiat money and technically worthless.  Is that the issue that Liberty Dollars were at 20 million, and growing?

This is going to be an interesting court battle. The Constitution does give money authority to the congress, but the Constitution also says money should be backed in gold or precious metals.  The Constitution says nothing of private money, and early America used a lot of private money. Mines used company script, the military used script, so what is the issue?

I find this a horrible violation of rights by the government. The government had a right to audit the books to ensure no fraud was being committed, but to simply confiscate, no way!  What is you wanted me to hold your TV for you while you were away? The receipt I give you is simply proof I am holding it, and when you want it back, present the receipt, and walk out with your property.  Banks are supposed to operate the same way.  But money is public property and drawing a mustache and fangs on George Washington is a federal crime. Drawing all over your private bank note is silly, but not illegal because it represents YOUR PROPERTY.

Side note, I noticed the US Mint has changed the term First Lady to First Spouse. Is this a hint of things yet to come?  Is “you know who” destined to return to the White House?  If it happens is it a hint that the whole election process a sham?

OK enough conspiracy theory.

 

I think I am going back to not discussing religion or politics unless it is someone I know pretty well. Nobody is going to change his/her mind, usually no good comes out of the exchange. With my closer friends we just leave it alone, or agree to disagree. We give courtesy and or respect to the whole person, not just one issue, or personal quirk. Personal value and dignity to the individual, it might become a reality you never know.

Many people start well meaning but end up in an anger fest. They think they are being rational, and the other side is the obstinate dull heads. Our current culture of shock media and mellow drama the “news debate” shows (cough cough) are more circus freak shows than information and ideas. They reinforce silly behavior over free speech.

Here are two possible outcomes of a political/religious debate.

I support Issue A because of, reason 1, reason 2, and reason 3. Sir/ma’am I oppose Issue A because of, reason 1, reason 2, and reason 3. I find flaw in your reason 2 because historically I observe (point made here). I counter with evidence of policy X, which is similar to Issue A. We will have to see what happens in the polls, see you there. Yes see you there on voting day. I do appreciate your insight and passion of the issue. Thank you, I find you a good debater as well. Would you like to get a beer and have sex with my spouse? Well I only drink American beer. Really me too! That is cool, I will bring my spouse too, and some whipped cream. I find spouses taste better covered in light creamy whipped cream. Oh yeah, we use that too! No offense but I never thought you folks did things like this. Well we are not exempt from the laws of human nature. True, we can disagree on one or two issues, but still work together to make this a better place. I agree, see you in 20. See you then.

Or this.

Issue A is the only way to have things, and if you disagree take your useless carcass out of MY country! Oh Yeah Issue A will lead to ruin and mayhem you dullard! By disagreeing with me you show you are “one of those,” you are unworthy of an opinion so shut up!No you shut up! Kook! Wing Nut! Commie! Fascist! Your mother has sex with zebras with backwards strips! Your mother sucks pond scum through a straw! Idiot! Loser! Yeah well our political party sponsors this show, so we will get the last word and say we won, neener neener. Oh yeah well our show will show your show making fun of our show and you will look like idiots. Yeah well we will show your show making fun of our show and edit it so you look really stupid making us look stupid. Idiots! Fascists, Bleeding hearts! country!

It is unfortunate one of these example is a huge exaggeration the other is not. Well on second hand maybe not, smile.