I am a Rock...... I am a Island....

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......... And a Rock Feels No Pain; and an Island Never Cries...

You know, back in the late 60's and into the 70's, there was a popular rock song with these lyrics. Perhaps you know it, but if not it was about someone who was hurt by loving someone else, and to prevent that from ever happening again, he isolated himself and prevented anyone from ever entering his domain ever again.

And during a recent visit with my sibling's, during a difficult time, it was brought out that this song was one of my favorites, long ago.

And it was. I perceived myself as that rock. And that I was strong. And that I could not cry. And that I never felt pain. And that I didn't need anyone.

And I apparently made that all very clear to those that were near me, including my brothers and sisters. And I never realized that was what they actually thought about me, but reflecting back on things, that was what I wanted. To make every one think I was that fortress who would never crumble.

As the years passed, those that loved me withdrew from me because of what they thought I was. And I let them go because I had an attitude that I could do it without them, and they were weak.

But what they did not know (and how could they?), was that I was not that rock, and I was not that Island, and I really didn't have a fortress. And they didn't know that I had compassion, and that I did love, and that I did cry, and that I was weak in many ways. And the didn't know that I had forgotten all about that song long ago.

For those that may not know me so well, my siblings gathered together this past week at the bedside of my oldest, but younger than me brother who just passed. For whatever reason, it had been a very long time since all of the siblings were together as a whole.

There were many hours that there was nothing much more that we could do except pray, try to get some rest, or to catch up family news and such, and reflect back on Those Days. Much of our conversation was deep and was focused on finding an answer as to why things happened they way they did between us, and to find a way to bridge the gap that had grown between us.

While I once believed I was that Rock (at least to some degree), I have since lost that attitude (to some degree). I realized during our gathering, that those that I had once convinced I was that Rock, still, because of our separation, believed it.

Aside from the reason that caused us to gather, it was an experience that I doubt will ever be forgotten. For me it was rewarding and I hope the others felt as such. But I know that it was a learning experience for each of us, no matter what the individual perception might be.

And as we parted, I think we did so with a new understanding of who we are. And for those siblings that will read this post, I apologize for crying in your presence, because most have never seen my tears ever before. But the tears you saw, were not from a Rock. Or from a man in his fortress built on that island. And the tears were not from pain or grief.

They were tears of joy, and for the blessings that I have received from the Lord. And I pass them on to all of you from Thought Dock.
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Who am I?

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Occasionally, I hear your screams trying to drown out the wisdom that I receive through the Thought Dock. I hear some of you screaming things like, "Bigot! Arrogant! Hateful! Mean! Rude! Uncaring! Out spoken! Angry! and Crazy!"

And, I love it! Because that tells me that my message is making it's way through. It is promoting Thought and discussion, and sometimes it tells me that some of you are actually waking up and are facing your own conflicts in a real way, not from within the darkness of a closet.

But, I really don't deserve to be labeled with any of those terms except "out spoken and angry," which I admit that I am.

Actually, I do love people. Laugh if you want, but I really do. It's just that I don't love all people. Take a breath now in between your chants of bigot and hypocrite, and hear me out!

Yes, I know that the Bible says to Love God, and that I do. And, I know that Jesus revised early Jewish law by adding that we are to love others, and that I do. And he also defined "others" as our "neighbors." So, I love God, Others, and Neighbors. Now, one should have no doubt as to who God is, but "others" and "neighbors" are still confusing to many.

So, Jesus was asked, at least once that I know of, just who "others" referred to. And, He relpied that the "others" were our "neighbors." and directed that we love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Still confused about who Jesus was referring to, someone once asked Him who his neighbors were. Jesus, as an example, then told a story of a man who was beaten to near death, robbed of all his possessions, and left to die on a lonely road. And, Jesus said that man was our neighbor and commanded us to help him.

Now, isn't it interesting that Jesus selected the victim of a robbery, not the robbers, to use as an example of who our neighbors are? So, His directives to love others, and to love your neighbors, do not explicitly imply for us to love everyone. However, He does command us to forgive, and that would include the robber.

And, there are other passages that direct us to stand against those that are evil. And that I have done, and I will always do.

And, you are my other, and my neighbor, and I will love you if you are not evil. And I will stand against you if you are evil. And I love to hear you scream at me because that tells me that I am doing the right things from the Thought Dock!
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Right or Wrong?

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To me, there are few things around that can not be debated. And I love debates. Maybe that's why I hate math. Math is finite in that the sum of the equation can not be argued. Only the formula used, and the acuracy of the calculation can be challanged.

Most everything else is debatable. And, I'm always open to hearing other views on most any subject. However, when one debates an issue with me without offering facts to support their opinion, their opinion is all but meaningless to me. And, if I determine that they manufacture facts to justify their opinion, that actually infuriates me and makes their opinion even less credible.

Now some subjects that people debate impossible to form a hard conclusion because there are not enough facts known to make the case. Things like stating precisely how many grains of sand are on Malibu Beach, or exactly how far one could walk before wearing the soles of his shoes out, fall into this category. But even then, one can come to a logical conclusion using facts known to him at the time. And people can then debate their opinions until they are blue in the face.

I know this is boring stuff, but I'm getting to my point.

And then there are some things that we don't need fact or logic to know whether who is right, and who is wrong. And, these issues are as finite as math. And, we are not told or taught these things. Nor, are they always laid out for us in the Bible (but most are). And, they are not always only about following God's way. And, I'm not sure where we got this ability. But, most of us have it.

Because these these things can not be argued, some try to justify them. Others try to tolerate these things. A few just ignore these things. But nobody really tries to argue these things, because they know these things are wrong.

And, I'm talking about things like cheating, stealing, lying, murder, and adultery, just to name a few. From their first lie, a child knows it is wrong. You can see it in their face. Before his first murder, theft, or cheat, one knows that is wrong. They know it even if they have never been taught. It comes from within. And no one argues whether they were right or wrong when they get caught, but they do try to justify what they did, or divert the fault to some one else.

And, the Lord knows (and many of you do too), that I have done some of these things at some point in my life. And, I knew they were wrong every time I did it. But, I no longer do any of these things. And, I will strive to never do these things again. And, I have asked for forgiveness. And, I know that He has forgiven me. And, I am not a hipocrite.

And, I will not tolerate those that do these things. And, will not ignore these things. And, I will do anything within my means to prevent or stop these things. And, I will never condone these things.

And, I am right. And, those that do these things are wrong. And, I will not hear any debate.

And, I am at the Thought Dock.
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Some One is Singing

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Whoopi!!

Whoopi Goldberg, I mean. You know. Opra Winfrey's life long side kick. Ever since the Color Purple. Two of MacDaddy's favorite little girls. How sweet is that?

And now, the Whooper says that Roman Polanski has been tormented for the past 30 years and should be set free.

Remember him? The movie producer and a great friend of Jack Nicholson? Remember that he pleaded guilty to drugging and then raping a 13 year old girl at Jack's house? He was convicted, but fled to France before he could be locked away. And, he has been free to live his life there ever since. And that he has. Continuing to make movies and win Emmys and Oscars.

Whoopi says that what Polanski did, if done today, whould amount to no more than a "date rape." Really? I dind't think a 13 year old could give to consent for sex. But so many people agree with Whoop.

It's no big deal. Just forgive. Just forget. Just tolerate. Just accept.

So, let's just gather in a circle, hold one another's hands and sing. And the world will just go on a bit longer. Here's a tune just for you!
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3MiD_U4CHQ
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Change Anyone?

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What Are You Doing?

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What is a Cause? What is the Church's Cause? What is a Christian's Cause? Do you have a Cause? Should you have a Cause? What is my Cause?

I've heard it all. It's too late. It's messy out there. It's all over. Tolerate. Love. Accept what is to be. Don't condone. Everything will be all right. To each his own. Forget. Forgive. Live your own life. Mind your business. It is what it is. Whatever will be will be. Moderate. Pray. See no evil. Don't get involved. They will have to answer to him. See no evil. Look the other way. Hear no evil. Tune it out. The end is near. Praise the Lord!

You know, most of us (at least the people I associate with), do a pretty good job following God's way. At least within the circle of those close to and around us. We love and care for these people. We teach them and learn from them. We help them and they help us. We go to church. We support the church. We tithe what we believe is appropriate. Some teach Sunday School, or are part of the ministry, or sing in the choir, or help with maintenance. And most within the church are one big happy family.

If you have a Cause, is that it? Or you have a Cause, should it, or does it go beyond that?

Now, I know that most every one's church reaches out beyond their membership, and into the community to further God's way. And by supporting the church, we are actually supporting the community. But if we have a Cause, shouldn't it go further? As an individual, shouldn't we go further to advance God's way rather than leave it all up to the church?

Sometimes, I see so many people go to church every week, pray, sing songs, tithe, and shake hands. It's like a huddle. Everyone gathers around in a huddle and a plan is developed. But once the plan is final, most everyone splits before the plan is ever executed, leaving things to the church. Imagine a football huddle where the next play is chosen, but most of the players return to the bench only to have the three most dedicated players run the play. A destined failure, I think.

I believe that each one of us, individually, should have a Cause. To be an activist for God's way. To do what is right, and to stop what is wrong. In other words, if you discover someone in need, and you are in a position to help, why not help? What take it to the church huddle for help? It will likely be too late by then anyway.

So, I ask what are you doing? Find a Cause. It's not too late. God's world is not a ghetto, yet. It doesn't have to be the way it is. Change is possible. You don't have to tolerate that which is immoral and unethical. Get involved and advance your Cause.

To not do so, is failure. And like the Jews of before, the Christians will also suffer that fate.
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A Jewish Lesson

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It is the Soldier

Who Salutes the Flag,

Who Serves beneath the Flag,

Whose Coffin is draped by the Flag,

But allows Protesters to burn the Flag.

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

Ok, this post is certainly not meant to offend anyone, but undoubtedly it will. Knowing that, I will go on with the post because the message is so very important.

Throughout written history, there have been no more of a submissive people than the Jew, and no more of a God loving people than the Jew. From the days of the Pharaohs 2500 years ago, to Hitler's attempted total extermination of the Jews 70 years ago, they Jews have been enslaved and persecuted.

Enslaved and persecuted only because they submitted to it. Yes, they submitted. And, I'll say it again - They submitted. Although they prayed to God for deliverance, they did little else to help themselves. Many will argue that there was nothing they could do. Baloney.

The Jews submitted to the Egyptians and built their cities and pyramids, while only a few guards were used to control thousands of Jews. They could have easily overtaken the guards and fled to freedom, but they submitted to them, and merely prayed that God would send a Savior. When that happened they refused to recognize the Saviour, and they continued to be persecuted.

While greater Europe remained in denial, Hitler rose. They hid their heads hoping and praying that he would just go away, but doing little else. They failed to respond until it was too late. One country fell after another and they cried for help.

And the Jews submitted to the Nazis. Thousands of Jews at a time arrived by train loads at the extermination camps the Nazi's had built, and submitted to the few guards that walked them into the death chambers. Many argue they didn't know what was about to happen, and there was nothing that they could do even if they did know. Baloney. Six Million Jews were slaughtered because they submitted. 100 against 1 is no fair fight even if the Nazi soldiers had machine guns.

But finally in 1947, the Jews stood firm against their oppression, and established their own country. And now look at what they accomplished, with God's help of course. A country with a mandatory military service that is known as a very fine fighting force. They are not a waring nation, but seek only to defend themselves against tyranny. And much of the time they go it alone without the help of anyone. There are now no prouder people than the Israelis.

Take note of this Jewish lesson folks. The Jews were nearly exterminated because they submitted to oppression for thousands of years. They merely prayed for help while they submitted to slavery and eventually extermination. They failed to recognized their eminent danger soon enough, and then failed to take the appropriate action to prevent their demise until it was too late.

Will that same fate come to America? We are losing the battle, and most of you readily admit it. America is in peril from the radicals of the world, from the radicals within, and from it's own government. But will we just pray about it and submit like the Jews? I'm all for prayer, but we can't just huddle in church every week while America crumbles. We must do more than pray.

Let's get it done!
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Amazing Small Talk

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As it is the Soldier,

Not the Campus Organizer,

That protects our Freedom to Demonstrate.

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

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I don't get it. I just visited two other blog sites. Now, I'm not into blasting other people's blogs, but this is just ridiculous.

One site encouraged smiling at someone to make their day better, and in so doing, it suggested that your day would be better in return. On another site, the question of the day was asking what mop would one buy her husband to make his job easier in the kitchen.

Here's the part I don't get. Each of these blogs got more responses (comments) than I do in my blog, although mine is filled with Thought Dock Wisdom about much more important subjects.

I guess it just goes to show how people turn away from life's tough decisions as an escape from the reality of truth.

Oh well. Congrats to the authors of those Small Talk blogs..
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I'm not yet Boiled

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And it is the Soldier,

Not the Poet,

That gives us Freedom of Speech.

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

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Geez, it's been in the mid 80's in this Central Oregon Coastal Community this past week. When you are used to mild 68-72 summertime weather, that's what Coloradoans call "boiling." We'll, I'm not yet boiled, at least not yet hard boiled, anyway.

Now, for those of you who complain about the summer heat in your town, come on up. That goes for Sista elder, who in addition to the average 100+ degree summer days of Inland Central California, her metabolism is out of sync, which then affects her core body temperature. She's a sweater.

And, it just so happens that the property right next door to us has been placed on the market. 200' of the Lake shoreline, over 1 acre, all utilities, and ready to build your dream home or simply place your favorite manufactured (they once were called trailers) home on. And, you'd be within a football field's length of the Thought Dock itself.

Whether you are distant or local, friend or relative, Texan, Coloradoan, Californian, or elsewhere, come on up! I'll put you up. But you have to be an Ultra Conservative Republican (UCR) because that is what we need to combat the Extremely Liberal Oregon Democrat (ELOD), who still wear tied died clothing and smoke their own home grown.

The Thought Dock only welcomes UCR's. Reserve your time now! The coming weekend is spoken for by the udda brudda, and Christmas is booked with half the grandchildren and their parents from Central Colorado, and our grand daughter from Southern California and her parents. But even so, I'll still take you in. Thanksgiving Day, or any other Day.

So bring your boots and fishing gear. Enjoy a vacation here, as I do every day, every year!
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Get Ready

For it is the Soldier,

Not the Reporter,

That guarantees us Freedom of the Press.

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

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Several years ago, President Bush, after not being able to find a diplomatic solution to Iran's nuclear program, began a plan to place interceptor missiles in Northern Europe, to defend against a missile attack from any rogue nation such as Iran, North Korea, or Egypt. Russia strongly opposed the plan.

Well, as soon as MacDaddy Obama, was elected by the ignorants of this Country, he was off shaking hands around the world. Not so much the hands of our friends and allies, but the hands of our greatest enemies. Hands like the Russians, Cubans, Egyptians, Iranians, Africans, and the Venezuelans, to name a few.

Now, the MacDaddy, without any concession from the communists, has ordered Bush's missile defense plan to be halted immediately! Cheers from our foes were immediately heard around the world. And, in the background, the cheers were actually laughter. Iran and North Korea continue the nuclear programs, leaving Israel little choice to do a first strike into Iran, as Iran threatens to blockade the straights and block oil distribution to the western world.

This is scary stuff folks; for if that happens it easily could escalate into another world war. Is that what MacDaddy Obama has in his plan? Could the MacDaddy be the Antichrist as so many people believe?

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Fearing Darkness

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It is the Soldier,

Not the Congress,

That takes care of Us.

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

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I find it incredible that words spoken 150 years ago are more pertinent now than then. It has been reported that Abraham Lincoln said this:

You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence.
You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves.

Today, MacDaddy Obama and his Friends, stand against each one of these principles in their quest to socialize America. He promised change, and that is exactly what he is doing.

He now controls most of our banking, insurance, investment, auto, energy, and transportation. He has appointed his crooked, and sometimes convicted Chicago cronies as Czars of these entities to report back directly to him.

So, what's wrong with that? The MacDaddy is aligned fully in Chicago. All of his friends, mentors, and preachers are there. Chicago is corrupt. Always has been.

You buy police protection, pay your way out of fines and arrests, directly to the individual cop, or his bosses. You are forced by the labor unions to hire their people and pay their wages, or risk being burned down. Organized crime controls the City as it distributes pornography, narcotics, prostitution, and gambling freely upon the population. Seldom does an elected official serve a full term in office because his corruption is exposed and he quits only to be hired by the company he was getting the bribes from.

To most, Chicago is glamorous because the dark side is seldom seen. As is the MacDaddy. To most Americans, he still is seen as handsome, well educated, great speaker, and is thought of as America's Messiah. So it also was with Adolph Hitler, Saddam Hussein, Stalin, Fidel Castro, and every other rising tyrant of socialism and communism (there's not much difference in either). But when they emerge from their dark sides, it is often too late.

No one has a shadow in the darkness. Turn on your lights and force MacDaddy and his friends to reveal their shadows before it is too late. Light the way, all the way, to the Thought Dock.

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I wonder if I have that?

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It is the Soldier

Not the President

Who gives us Democracy

Father Dennis O'Brien, USMC

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So, we were exploring the moon after blasting off from Earth (Grace and I playing an imagination game). I was the pilot and we were collecting things (mostly rocks) from the lunar surface to take back to Earth to study. It was then that I saw a Giant Monkey right there in our path. Actually it was a stuffed monkey hanging on the wall in her living room. Wanting to end the game, I told Grace that I was afraid of the Giant Monkey and that I wanted to go back to Earth. She said, "Don't be afraid. God will always protect you."
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Have you ever noticed how many people have been diagnosed with Bipolar? How about ADT, ADHT, ED, Depression, or the like?
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Seems everyone fits into one of these, or other "Designer" diseases now days. And there are many more, and more added to the list every day. And for every one of these diseases, there always seems to be a medication to treat the disease. And those medications are really expensive. Every time I turn around, I hear of a new designer disease advertisement on television promoting a new medication. How odd that is. As soon as a new designer disease is discovered, so then is a medication.

Sometimes, I wonder whether the scientists and chemists create the medications first, and then find or create a disease that the medications will treat. Ever notice that cheap medications, like aspirin, no longer have a disease that they treat, yet some of the designer diseases are treated with medications containing aspirin, but costs thousands of times more?

I hope I'm wrong, because that would make treating diseases all about money.
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Highlighting the Trip

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Following 3 nights along the 1200 miles of road, we arrived near the entrance to Estes National park and spent the afternoon with my eldest daughter, then the night at Wally's World, and then a few hours in the morning with our second grand daughter before leaving to visit our newest grand daughter.

After driving the comparatively short jaunt to the base of Pike's Peak, we arrived at our eldest son's pad to welcome his new daughter to the family. Spent about a week there, sightseeing, playing with the kids, and helping put the final touches to the new house they bought. Got to attend our grand son's 5th birthday party, complete with pizza, more kids, and one of those inflatable jumping houses.

Then back to the other side of the family. Visited with Pop, went to a high school football game where our firstborn grand daughter played a trumpet with the band. Met Stubby and tasted his pulled pork BBQ and sausage before buying several pounds of it for dinner. Yummy! Gave the eldest grand son a lesson or two about chess, and played a student with the most beautiful princess in the world our second 3 year old grand daughter playing the role of a school teacher. We collected and decorated rocks which we found in her yard. I drew an arrow with chalk on one rock and asked her what it was. She quickly replied, "That's the way. When ever you get lost, follow the arrow to God and He will keep you safe and show you the way." What a strong testimony of faith from such a young lady! Took our children to dinner for their wedding anniversary and her birthday. A Hoity Toity fondue place. Was tasty and quite fun.

And then headed home. Another 4 nights along the road over some of the most beautiful country in America. A total of 19 days and 3150 miles of pure fun and family. Thank you everyone!

I could write a book on the adventure, but that might be boring to some of my world-wide audience. So, I must get on with the Thoughts from the Dock.... Sumday Soon!
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O..... Oregon!

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Last night we stayed in a State campground on the Columbia River about 65 miles east of Portland. Pretty place.. Pretty river. Totally green trees everywhere.

You know, I like green best. And after visiting every state north of Yellowstone and west of the Colorado River, I'm still stuck on Oregon. I think it must be because it's green, at least the western half.

And following the last 200 mile leg, we are are home! Gotta get some rest, and get re-adjusted to life at sea level. Haven't been much below 3000ft since leaving home. I know it's hard being a host, but it isn't much easier being the guest. Thank to our hosts theses past few weeks for putting up with us. It was a great trip because of You!

Thanks to all of you for being patient and continuing to send me all that important stuff that I've yet to digest. Then I'll have to fire up the Thought Dock. So in a few days, I'll be ready to feed you exactly what you need.
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Alene's Heart

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What a pretty place this is.... Couer d' Alene, Idaho. A huge lake one voted by National Geographic as being as one of the five most beautiful lakes in America.

We arrived here yesterday afternoon, just in time for her birthday dinner at a floating restaurant on the Lake. We first got a campsite, and hooked up the Wheeled Manor. After getting two complementary drink tickets from the campground office, we walked the 3/4 mile trek to the marina for her birthday dinner. It was a Hoity Toity (as my brudda would say) kind of place and offered dishes that I'd never heard of. But it was American food.

Nickles had a seafood pasta in a white cream sauce, and I ordered a chicken dish that I can't spell or pronounce. It was chicken breasts rolled and stuffed with dried tomatoes then wrapped into a roll with a thin slice of ham, then broiled. Seems like an easy dish to prepare for a guest's dinner. And as was the fish pasta, it was yummy.

556 miles to the Thought Dock.
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What's 55?

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Boy, have we seen a variety of signs along our trail. Traffic signs, billboards, crosses along the shoulder, skywriters, and more. 75, 55, 45, 65, Slow, Curve, 60, Work Zone, Rest Area, and more.

But my favorite sign these last few days was 55, because that is exactly how old my spouse is today! My Life, My Wife, is having her birthday on the road. I wonder what we'll do to celebrate? I don't know. Maybe we'll stop somewhere exciting.

Yesterday, we visited Little Bighorn. That's were the Indians got the best of General Custer. He was trying to drive the Indians even further out of the States, so the White man could have all of Montana. I don't get it. There is nothing there, even now after 150 years. Nothing but Little Bighorn, at town of 1500. We saw the battle fields and went to the museum.

But no one ever explained just what is a Little Bighorn. Seems like it's contradicting itself. And, I would think it would be contradictory no matter what language it originated from.

I'm short on Wisdom these days being so far separated from the Thought Dock. And I can't follow Fox News as I should.

We are camping now. Go figure. Wifi here. Long way from the tent days of Those Days.
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Tasting M&M Peanuts

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You know, I've probably eaten several hundred pounds of M&M candies over the years. And my favorite are the peanut ones. And my favorite way to eat a Peanut M&M is by just popping one in my mouth at a time and sucking through the outer shell, then into the chocolate and down to the peanut. That's not to say that I don't lose control at times and stuff handfuls into my mouth as fast as I can chew and swallow them.

But, I think I learned something new about Peanut M&M's today. While navigating the Wheeled Manor through Wyoming, I began snacking on a tub of the candies. I must have eaten a few handfuls in my usual way, one at a time, before I noticed something for the first time.

I actually paid attention to which color I popped into my mouth. Red, Orange, Yellow, Blue, Green, and Brown. Not necessarily in that order, although it really wouldn't have mattered anyway.

The outer coatings all taste the same!! At least to me. The Blue tastes exactly the same as the Yellow or Brown. I was shocked at the discovery. Why then do they have different outer colors? I wonder whether anyone else has ever noticed this?

Or, maybe.... I'm wrong. Am I?
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You know what?

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That's what she asked at least 68 times in the first 2 days of our visit. She, the 3-year old grand daughter who truely believes she is a beautiful princess (and she really is), would ask me with a very serious look on her face. And, when I replied, "What?" her face would gleem with a smile and she would say, "I love you Grandpa-D!" as she pressed against me with a hug. Can't buy that anywhere.

Well we will be heading home in a few hours through a part of this Country that I haven't seen in many years. We'll take the slow train to spend a few days with each other after sharing many days with the others. So, in 3-4 days, I'll be back at the Dock. Can't wait to share the lessons I've learned during these past few weeks.
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'Til then.
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Where is the Beef?

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Just checking in with you all. I hope that you've been tuned into Fox News during my absense. I know that it's not quite like the Thought Dock, but I am hoping it will allow you to hang on during my time away.

Someone has asked about about when the real meat will come again from the Dock. You must understand that as with any lost and hungry wanderer, one must first quench his thirst, before taking the meat. Without that, you'd get stomach cramps. So, as the Doctor of Thought, it is for me to decide when the beef will come. Too soon, and you'll all get sick. Too late and it will be all back to Square 1. It ain't easy.

I wanted to thank those that tried to be along my route through the western states to catch a glimpse of me. I did notice some flags flying along my route and an abandoned ice chest in the lanes of Interstate 80. Sorry, if I let you down. However, I now wonder if some of those half staffed flags were meant for the late Senator. I know that many of you must have felt the urge to leave your roadside seats to watch Fox News' coverage of the late Senator Kennedy. I understand.

Well, I'll be on the return leg of my trip with plans to hit the road Monday afternoon. My route include visits and possible stops through Billings, Spokane, and Portland. Of course, I prefer the smaller cities and roadside rests over the bigger cities and pompas hotels. So you'll be more likely to see me in those places. Line up and wave your flags (USA only) and salute me as I pass. I'll return with a free blast from the Wheeled Manor's horn. Sometimes I even blast it when I don't see anyone, but when I feel your presense. I apologize for being a bit vague with my route, but I'm sure you understand my safety concerns.

Anyway..... I'll be back at the Thought Dock very soon... Hang on..
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Who Does He Think He Is?

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An avid Follower passed this editorial on to me. I have condensed it somewhat, and added some of my spin, to share it with you.

"We're no longer a Christian nation." - MacDaddy, June 2007
"America has been arrogant." - MacDaddy
"After 9/11, America didn't always live up to her ideals." - MacDaddy
"You might say that America is a Muslim nation."- MacDaddy, Egypt 2009

Reading and hearing these audacious, shocking statements by a man who was recently elected our president, I wonder just what country MacDaddy thinks he's president of?" MacDaddy surely can't be referring to the United States of America , or could he?

America is emphatically a Christian nation, and has been from its inception! 70% of our citizens identify themselves as Christian. The Declaration of Independence and our Constitution were framed, written and ratified by Christians. It's because this was, and is, a nation built on and guided by Judeo-Christian biblical principles that the MacDaddy has had the privilege of being elected as president.

MacDaddy has studied law at Harvard. And he has constitutional law in Chicago. Has he not ever read the statement of John Jay, the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and an author of the landmark "Federalist Papers." "Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers - and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation - to select and prefer Christians for their rulers."

MacDaddy must have read the decision of the Supreme Court in 1892: "Our lives and our institutions must necessarily be based upon and embody the teachings of the Redeemer of mankind. It is impossible that it should be otherwise; and in this sense and to this extent our civilization and our institutions are emphatically Christian."

MacDaddy must have you skipped over all the high-court decisions right up till the mid 1900's that echoed and reinforced these views and intentions.

Or, was the MacDaddy's ideas about America 's Christianity formed during the 20 years he followed Jeremiah Wright in church? Was it then that he got the idea that America is no longer a Christian nation? Is that where he, calling himself a Christian, formed the belief that America has been arrogant?

MacDaddy has damned our country and has accused the whole nation (not just a few military officials trying their best to keep more Americans from being murdered by jihadists) of not always living up to America's ideals.

And how did MacDaddy come up with the ridiculous, alarming notion that we might be considered a Muslim nation? Is it because there are some 2 million or more Muslims living here, trying to be good Americans? Out of a current population of over 300 million, 70 percent of whom are Christians, does that make us, by any rational definition, a "Muslim nation"

Has MacDaddy stopped to think what an actual Muslim America would be like? He was instructed in Islam as a kid at a Muslim school and has said that he still loves the call to Muslim evening prayers. Can he imagine our nation founded on the Quran, not the Judeo-Christian Bible, and living under Shariah law. He must know Muhammad's directives to "break the cross" and "kill the infidel."

The MacDaddy has obviously been more influenced by his upbringing and questionable education than most suspected. If he considers himself as the president of a people who are no longer Christian, he has failed to live up to our ideals,

It is MacDaddy whom is arrogant. He wants to be the president of a country most Americans don't recognize. Could it be the MacDaddy is a president without a country?

Well, I'll leave you with that. We will be on the Road Trip as you read this. I'll try to quench your thrist as soon as I can.
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MacDaddy and his Fool

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Eight years ago, terrorists in two fuel-laden jetliners crashed into and collapsed the World Trade Center. Another jet tore into the Pentagon. A fourth crashed in a field in Pennsylvania, believed to have been brought down by brave passengers who refused to let terrorist bastards hit another Washington target.

Nearly 3,000 men, women and children were incinerated in the infernos. And the United States Attorney General, Eric Holder, is actively considering prosecuting Central Intelligence Agency employees for scaring terrorist suspects.

God forbid that those charged with bringing the 9/11 terrorists and others who have attacked this Country to justice might have used nasty tactics to do so. MacDaddy's appointed Fool, Eric Holder, says he's just doing the job he was hired to do. You bet he is. He was hired by the MacDaddy to prosecute those defending America instead of radical Black groups like, say, the New Black Panther Party members intimidating voters with clubs in Philadelphia, or the voter fraud of Acorn.

Foolish Holder vows that no information will be made public that would compromise the work of the CIA. There, don't you feel better now? Never mind the chilling effect of prosecuting those who did the job they were charged to do. Perhaps the MacDaddy himself would like to take terrorist suspects to Starbucks for a nice Caffe Misto.

I pray, "God help these fools. God help the U.S.A." Get rid of this foolishness.
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Road Trip-Colorado

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Photo Left: Welcome to His world: Our 7th grandchild and our 3rd grand daughter. Addison, born August 21, 2009. I think she looks a bit like me!

So, we are taking a road trip. Now, because some of you don't even know what I look like, I'll take a side by side photo with Addison just so you can see the resemblence.

And, so we'll leave this Friday (yipee!), drive for a few days through Oregon, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming before arriving in Colorado from the north. Then south to the middle of the state to the base of Pike's Peak. That's where Addison will be waiting with her two brothers. 1404 miles and three days in the Manor on Wheels.

And then, we will back track north, near the east entrance to Estes National Park where we will see our other grandson and his two sisters.

Oh yes of course, the parents of all the grandchildren will be there too, but the kids will get the majority of our attention.

We'll do about a week total with each family, but by sharing blocks of 3-4 days with each one at a time.

Then , we plan to head home from Colorado on a northerly route through Wyoming, Montanna, Idaho, Washington, and back to Oregon from the north. 1703 miles. We'll be on the trip for about 3 weeks.

The sad news is that during my absense, this blog might suffer a bit and you might have difficulty quenching your thirst for Thought Dock wisdom. As before, I'll recommend tuning to Fox News while I'm away as that is the next best portal for Truth.

The mad news is that you all now have a general idea of my itinerary. I'm posting this a bit early for you to plan to meet me along my route. If you need more precise times, ask for it in the comments. I'd love to shake your hand. Now, if there is a parade in your town at the time I'm passing through, I'd be glad to be the Grand Marshall or something. Or if you just want a glimpse of me as I drive through, set up your lawn chairs, wave a flag, and I'll acknowledge you with a horn honk from the Wheeled Manor. If you are shy, or want to be anonymous, just make eye contact with me and I'll know who you are.

Hope to see you all soon.

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Yes You Can

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See it works.

All this stuff that many of you think is just a waste of time, does work. Things like reading and forwarding e-mail, watching Fox News to stay informed and then passing it on to others, reading blogs or hosting your own, taking about issues when ever you are given the opportunity, and speaking out about what is wrong......It all works!!

Several months ago, I posted that there were signs that the MacDaddy and his Court were losing clout. It was much closer then, but I could see it. He was slipping, no not on a banana but in the polls, and so were some of his policies.

Look what has happened. The latest polls suggest that MacDaddy plan for socialized medicine is not supported by nearly 60% of registered voters. And the only way that could have happened is for many of the people that elected him, are now seeing through him. Most everyone I know questions his stimulus, bailout, energy, cash for clunkers, and foreign policy plans. For that, I say thank God for answering our prayers.

But the fight is not over. Although we have all but silenced Queen Pelosi, we now have another MacDaddy chrony, Eric Holder, doing everything he can to convict our heroes and soldiers and send them off to prison. And there will be more issues to come from more of his cronies. Issues like tax increases, like energy conservation, like immigration, like social security, and the every growing national debt.

So keep it up. Don't give up. They are on the run. Keep them running. A mid term election will be here soon, and they know that. This country might be finally awakening politically, and we need to make sure it has.

Thank you all for following this blog and referring it to others. Thank you for your comments and suggestions, regardless of your view. It all helps.
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Highly Educated Immigrants?

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Just recently, I had a brief conversation about diversity with a person very dear to me. The person was very proud to boast that the community where he/she lived was comprised of many different ethnic groups, some of which were immigrants to this country. And how proud he/she was that so many immigrants were highly educated and served the community as large oil company executives and doctors. Like I said, the conversation was brief, and not much more was elaborated upon.

But as I sat back to watch the Little League World Series on television, I began to think more and more about what was said. And what was said, goes back to the very essence of what I stand against. Here's why..

What he/she can't, or refuses to acknowledge, is that the vast majority of those "highly educated immigrants" did not come to this country with their higher education, but instead, obtained it here, and many times for free. They came here, not as immigrants, but with student visas. And they promised they would return to where ever they came from with their higher education to help their own country progress.

What he/she can't, or refuses to acknowledge, is that those foreign students deprived our own citizens of the higher education they wanted. Our school rooms were filled with foreign students, and there was no room for our own.

What he/she can't, or refuses to acknowledge, is that those foreign students never returned to their home, but became what he/she calls "highly educated immigrants." And they kept their higher paying jobs as chemists, engineers, doctor and dentists, professors, finance, and scientists, leaving Americans with what was left. And now, they are beginning to hold public offices. Watch out!

Now, it used to be that immigrants worked their way up from the bottom in this country. Our forefathers took menial labor jobs, in the fields, railroads, laundries, resturants, and other general labor jobs as they saved money to educate their children. But it is different now. Immigrants come here, are given a higher education for free, and take the top jobs and employ us to do their menial work.

But one area which is notably missing from the "highly educated immigrant's" portfolio is the field of Law. And that's because these foreigners can not accept or understand Democracy because it conflicts with their religious cultures.

Now, there are some foreigners that become highly educated persons here, that do leave America. And they become America's enemies. How many of the world's worst enemies have obtained their education right here? Many more than you realize, but you can start with Hitler, Osama BinLaden, Hussein, and most every other tyrant in the Middle East and Africa.

And, many of the highly educated immigrants return here to kill us. How many terrorists went to flight schools here before killing thousands of Americans on 9/11. Have you forgotten that? We teach them how to make the bombs that are now being used against us.

What he/she can't or refuses to acknowledge is that these "highly educated immigrants" are taking over this country as we turn our heads, or shake their hands, and welcome them here.

So quit turning you heads to what is happening. Quit preaching that it is all too late. Quit flinging anonymous remarks from the privacy of your darkened closets. Quit fleeing to the sanctuary of a church to do nothing but pray about it. Even churches today are being attacked and Christians murdered as they assemble to pray.

Don't turn your head. Come out. Stand tall. Get involved. Speak the truth. Don't be afraid. It's not over. Throw them out. Wake up. You may have voted for him, but it's not too late. The MacDaddy is a prime example of what I'm angry about. Throw him out!

Your ship may be sinking, but you can always step off and onto the stability of the Thought Dock.
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Equal and Exact Justice to All Men-Thomas Jefferson

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*******WARNING***YOU MIGHT NOT LIKE WHAT YOU ARE ABOUT TO READ****'

One can argue what Thomas Jefferson said from many angles, but when you look at how the media reports news, it surely is not fair, nor equal.

Today, it is evident to every social scientist (and most anyone with common sense) that most of us can distinguish right from wrong, but we are losing our ability to do it. Our deteriorating standards for justice and virtue are rooted in the ever increasing dissolution of the family, and the failure of our churches and our schools to instill those values necessary for a self-governing democracy.

We are now home to generations of sociopaths who do not value your life, simply because they do not value their own. Making matters worse, the media's way of reporting things do not help matters. The media reports only a selection (their selection) of crimes in this country. At times there is a virtual blackout of a crimes involving select sociopaths, while trumpeting allegations and speculations of others.

Remember the Duke University incident alleging a group of White lacrosse players gang raped a Black female exotic dancer? The media pounded the incident for over a year trying to convict the players in the court of public opinion. As it turned out, there was no evidence and the Black complainant was a liar. The real victims were, in fact, the accused men athletes.

Four weeks ago, MacDaddy Obama interrupted a live media propaganda event promoting his socialized health care plan in order to accuse a white police officer of "acting stupidly" for arresting MacDaddy's Black friend. That accusation was followed by similar claims of racism by the Black governor of the State, and the Black mayor of the City. Media pressure caused all charges against the Negro friend to be dropped. The story dominated the national media headlines for a couple weeks, until it was determined that the officer's actions were, in fact, justified. Then things fell very silent.

MacDaddy tried to make amends by tossing back a few beers with them in the Rose Garden, but he offered no apology.

This week, there is a trial underway which is racially charged, but you won't likely hear the media reporting it. Chances are you never ever heard about it because the case involves a savage murder of two White lovers by a group of Negros. Here's the facts.

On January 6, 2007, two White lovers were out for a Saturday dinner date, but neither returned home. The next day, the mutilated and burned remains of one were found along a railroad track. Two days later, the other's mutilated body was recovered from a trash bin.

The police report alleges that the White couple pair were carjacked on their way home by four male Blacks. They were taken to a nearby house, brutally gang-raped in front of each other, mutilated and then murdered. They were subjected to lengthy torture in each other's presence. The male was raped, his genitals were cut off, and then taken to the railroad tracks where he was shot execution-style. His body was soaked with gasoline and set afire as his girlfriend watched. She was kept alive for a while longer, repeatedly raped again, mutilated, had cleaning solution poured down her throat in an attempt to destroy DNA evidence, and then stuffed inside a trash can where she died. But this case was a media black out.

Although this case is barbaric, it was just one of many involving Blacks murdering Whites that never obtain media coverage. There was nothing new about the racial aspect of this story, which may explain why it was not national news. Public records represent just 12 percent of the U.S. population is Black, yet Black perpetrators are convicted in court in more than 50% of all murder and manslaughter cases. And those statistics hold true for moth other crimes, at least in California. But that is seldom published.

Now here is a case involving a despicable political double standard which is the point of this post. In 1998, three White men in Texas, beat a Black man, then chained him to the back of a pickup truck and dragged him three miles to his death. That murder received national media attention, as it should.

So, why do white-on-black crimes invariably result in a media feeding frenzy, while black-on-white hate crimes receive nothing?

It has been said that, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Hammer me with you comments if you want, but the facts are facts, and I'm just passing on the Truth and Wisdom from the Thought Dock.

Squinting With The Best

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Who said the sun never shines in Oregon? That couldn't be farther from the truth. Although it does rain often here, that has not been the case for the last three months. In fact, I don't think we've had any significant measurable rain here since June.

But living in a coastal community, we do get fog and wind. Not so bad at the Thought Dock because it is sheltered by trees and is about a mile off the coast.

Now when the sun shines, it shines just as brilliant as any place I've ever seen. From the desserts and beaches of SoCal, to Waikiki in Hawaii. This only thing that is different is that the air temperature is not so hot. Doesn't prevent one from wearing sun glasses or getting sun burned.

I first realized the brilliance of the sun while trying to watch television during the early afternoon to sunset. It is at that time that the rays bear down through our double stacked view windows facing the Lake. So bright that I first tried wearing sunglasses while inside the house. When that didn't work, and after getting sun burned (while watching tv!), I went to wearing a large billed cap with the sun glasses. Still things were intolerable. So I mostly remained out doors until sunset.

This past week, we solved the squint crisis with the addition of some heavy window tinting, combined with Solar Shades. But it is still so bright inside we have elected to darken the wall paint to help even more. But that will come later.

I know that some of you crave wisdom, while others prefer the less thought provoking subjects like today's. But come on back. There is always something for everyone at the Thought Dock.
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Regarding Anonymity

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Commenting anonymously is a matter well debated. Some argue that anonymous comments made in good taste are a value to any subject. One person recently argued that when a commenter is known to the audience, the comment would lose its value depending on who the commenter was. In other words, if the commenter was a Black female, the comment might be taken less seriously than if a White male said the same thing.

This blog's purpose is to generate meaningful thought and create dialogue, whether the subject is of a family, personal, or public matter. And, as the Author, I permit anyone to comment on the subject whether made anonymously or not, providing it is made in good taste and does not attack the Author, or any commenter directly.

That said, I'll give you my personal opinion regarding anonymity and you can comment, even anonymously.

I don't like the anonymous crap. I've always said, "Stand up for what you believe and make yourself heard." And to do that, you can't yell out comments from the back of the room, or from a darkened closet and expect someone to believe you, even though you might be speaking the truth.

I hoping that you all know Christ, but if you don't I can help. Thinking of Jesus, His message was difficult enough to convince anyone to believe in Him. Now, had he draped his head in a cover, or spoke only from a darkened cave, how many people would he ever have persuaded to follow His way?

With every book I read, every new article I see, every movie I watch, it is very important to me to know who the author is. Knowing that, your perspective of the presentation could be altered. How many of you would actually have an interest to read, or believe what I post if you didn't know who I was?

Imagine opening your mouth wide for a person holding a high speed drill if you didn't know he was a dentist. Imagine sending your child to a sitter that you've never met, or selecting an auto mechanic solely from the yellow pages. I know some of you do stuff like this routinely, and perhaps it works for you. But to do so, scares the heck out of me.

So establishing trust, credibility, expertise, knowledge, and wisdom is difficult to do if you remain anonymous to me. So, think about it. Please feel free to offer your opinion about anything I post. I promise, I won't hunt you down and punch you in the nose if I don't like your comment. If you can't come out of that dark closet totally in public, at least give me some clue as to who you are.

But if you can't, I'll still listen.
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MacDaddy 'n' Cheese

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A Follower shared this with me. Much of it I have discussed in prior posts. But just to recap things, here is what our MacDaddy President has done in his first 100 days in office. I know, this is old news. He's now done even more since the 100 that this refers to.

1) Offended the Queen of England.
2) Bowed to the King of Saudi Arabia.
3) Praised the Marxist Daniel Ortega.
4) Kissed Hugo Chavez on the cheek.
5) Endorsed the Socialist Evo Morales of Bolivia.
6) Announced we would meet with Iranians with no pre-conditions.
7) Gave away billions to AIG; also without pre-conditions.
8) Expanded the bailouts.
9) Insulted everyone who has ever loved a Special Olympian.
10) Doubled our national debt.
11) Announced a termination of the space defense system the day after the North Koreans launched an ICBM.
12) Despite the urgings of his own CIA director and the prior 4 CIA directors, released information on intelligence gathering.
13) Accepted without public comment the fact that five of his cabinet members cheated on their taxes and two others withdrew after they couldn't take the heat.
14) Appointed a Homeland Security Chief who quickly identified as "dangers to the nation", groups including veterans of the military, and opponents to abortion on demand, and who ordered that the word "terrorism" no longer be used but instead referred to such acts as "man made disasters".
15) Circled the globe so he could openly apologize for America's greatness.
16) Told Mexicans the violence in their country was because of us.
17) Politicized the census by moving it into the White House from its Department of Commerce origins.
18) Appointed as Attorney General the man who orchestrated the forced removal and expulsion from America to Cuba of a nine-year old whose mother died trying to bring him to a life of freedom in the United States.
19) Salutes as heroes three Navy SEALS who took down three terrorists who threatened one American life and the next day announces members of the Bush administration will likely stand trial for "torturing" a terrorist who had played a part in killing 3000 Americans by pouring water up their nose.
20) Flew Air Force One over New York City causing panic at a cost of 400,000 to get a photo you can make with Photo Shop for less than a dollar. 21) Sent his National Defense Adviser to Europe to assure Europe that the US will no longer treat Israel in a special manner and they might be on their own with the Muslims.
22) Began the process of nationalizing the Auto Industry and the Insurance industry.
23) Announced that for all intents and purposes, the Health Insurance Industry will be nationalized. And just think - only 1360 days to go, if we have anything left.

These are facts, don't just think about them. If nothing else, please pray to Him, for him.
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Acne Thoughts

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How weird it is just to be sitting here wondering what to post, when the thought of acne just pops into my mind.

In Those Days, I think every teen had acne. I know I did, but no where near as bad as some. And I can't think of anyone that didn't have a bout with at least some pimples. I hated acne and the only good I saw in it was that it was a pretty effective means of birth control. Well, not for everyone though. Just seems there are far more early pregnancies that there were, but I suppose there are many more factors involved.

But things seem different today. Maybe it's just because I'm out of the circle of teens, but I don't think acne is anywhere near as prevalent as it was when I grew up. And my children seemed to have less of a problem with it than I did, and their children seem to not have it at all.

If I'm correct, then what has caused it? I know there are now medications available today that weren't then. Perhaps a change in diet? It seems we eat less healthy today. Better water? Perhaps. Exercise? I don't think so looking at all of us who are out of shape and over weight. Better hygiene? I showered every day then. And, come to think of it, dandruff is also not like it was.

Maybe it's just my perception. Maybe in some ways this is a better place. Could MacDaddy Obama have had something to do with it? Makes me feel a bit better if it's true.
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Tell that to ....

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Studying hard will get you to college. Tell that to my daughter who graduated from high school with a 3.85 GPA, but couldn't qualify for either a grant or a scholarship, yet there were many for some 3.0 students. And, explain to her why she could not get her classes in college, yet they were filled by foreign exchange students.

There is no need for handicapped parking spaces in the jungle because only the strong survive. Tell that to my daughter's grandfather, whom has worked hard his entire life, but now has difficulty walking.

Only the strong survive. Tell that to my oldest nephew who's father never returned from a war, and to my other nephew who's father didn't return from Vietnam with the health he once had. And tell that to my close friend's wife who's husband sacrificed his life being a cop.

Serve your country and we'll give you an education and the means to buy a home. Tell that to my youngest nephew son who served in the Navy, but is still without an upper education or a home of his own.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Tell that to any White male looking for a job to support his family.

Save your money for retirement. Tell that to any of the many that lost their savings by investing in the banks, or putting it into employer 401k plans.

America the Beautiful. Tell that to yourself you drive through our graffiti infested neighborhoods, and the crap holes of illegal aliens that we have let ruin our schools and hospitals. And sing it loud as you turn your heads away while you let it happen.

I could go on, but it is very depressing. Thank God I have the sanctuary of the Thought Dock to retreat to.
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MacDaddy Obama's Meetings

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The MacDaddy sent his best Knights into the Kindom to convince the peasants that he needs to control the medical care in America. But once away from the comfort of their Round Table, their true intent came to light.

Put your views pertaining to socializing America aside for a moment because that is not what this post is about.

Look look at what is happening at these meetings. The Knight calls the meeting under the pretense that it is a public forum to learn about a MacDaddy's plan. As the Knight begins, questions from the audience regarding the plan begin. But the Knight objects to the question because it contrasts MacDaddy's plan. And the Knight either refuses or does not address the question appropriately.

And the Knight returns to the Queen's Court and tells her no one would listen to his presentation. And while the Knight was crying, Queen Pelosi publically states that asking tough questions of the Knight is Un-American, dispuptive, and the offenders should be put in the Court's jails.

Ok, to the point: It seems very clear that MacDaddy, his Knights, and the Queen, are not listening to the voices of the peasants at these meetings, regardless of the subject being presented. It appears that about 80% of the peasants oppose their government's direction lately. But the peasants that the officials refuse to hear, are the very peasants that put them in office. Rather than the peasants controlling America through a democratic republic process as was intended, MacDaddy and the Knights want total control over the will of the peasants.

My friends, you should be outraged about this. Please take time from your busy personal schedule and make note of who these Knights are that no longer listen to you. And get rid of them (not by violence, but in a democratic way) at the next opportunity. Most everyone I know complains about what America has evolved to, but the reason things are where they are is only because we have not taken an active role in our government for a very long time.

Be active and stand firm for what you believe. Talk to others and inform them who the Black Knights are, and obtain their support to dump them at the next election. I know that many of you do this in your everyday Christian life. You support God and feel wonderful about educating others about Him wherever the opportunity comes. I only ask that you do the same for your America.
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Presto

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Have you noticed that the price of some leather goods is a fraction of what bit was 10 years ago? How about deli lunch meat, wood sheeting, hot dogs, some furniture, or bologna? The all have the same thing in common. Well, yesterday I found out just what it was.

Well, in Those Days (and even thousands of years before that), leather was made by tanning the hides of animals and making them into garments, shoes, and a most anything else that had to be durable. It was very labor intensive stuff, and therefore, expensive. It was stiff and thick but was expected to last. It was not very comfortable. Then someone figured out they could split it in half and make twice as much from the single hide. That was called suede, and suede was cheaper than leather. Over the years many efforts were made to duplicate leather. Vinyl, plastics, and fiberglass were all tried, but they all had limitations.

Have you noticed how soft some leather is now? Now it's almost everywhere. New jackets, car seats, and home furniture all have it. Ever notice how perfectly colored it is? No imperfections at all, and it's much thinner. It is real leather, I guess if you want to call it that. And it's not much more expensive that a good quality upholstery. Here's why.

I'm sure you know Pringles. They are made by taking a real potato, squashing it up, adding spices, and then pressing it through a mold to make a chip, which is then baked. Presto! Every chip is exactly the same in size, color, and shape. And I guess they taste some what like a potato chip, especially if you have never eaten a real chip. But they are a particle chip.

Same said with wood. Sawdust pressed with a bonding agent forms a sheet of wood, most any size or shape. Then it is textured by a machine for a particular grain, stained, and fashioned into furniture, and Presto!. They call it particle board.

Turkey, chicken, beef, and most every other meat is squashed and pressed into a slice. No waste. Presto! I call it particle lunch meat. Look at that deli slice of turkey closely. It's real turkey, but it's not really the same as a slice off the old breast bone.

Well, now they are doing the very same thing with leather. After the Grade-A leather is cut from the hide and set aside for real leather needs like very expensive shoes, the rest is ground into a very fine powder. Glue is added and it is pressed into thin sheets, then textured. Color is added and it is sanded and polished to make it smooth and pliable. Presto! But it's particle leather.

I must admit, I was pretty impressed with the particle leather seats I've seen in cars lately, particle leather furniture, and particle leather clothing, I think the bragging rights to owning leather is best left for those that have the real stuff. And now, I can tell the difference even though I don't have much of it around my house.

And Presto! I repaired the Thought Dock without using any particles in my boards.
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Your Last Ten

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The insurance companies have reported that over 50% of a person's lifetime medical bills are spent during the last ten days of their life. And at today's costs, an average of $100,000.00 is spent to prolong it for just 10 days.

Insurance companies say that this is done whether or not the medical treatment offers any promise of recovery, or a return to a normal life, regardless of your age within the last 10 days. Doctors claim that they are pressed to take what ever means necessary to prolong life because of the threat of lawsuits from family members. It seems that is only what the doctors are driven by.

The figure would applies whether you have private insurance, Medicare, or any socialized medical program that the Long Legged MacDaddy and his friends might force upon all Americans.

So, here is the Thought Dock Medical Plan: Those people that really don't want their life to be extended during those final ten days, could simply opt out by signing an agreement. That would reduce the medical costs in the last ten days by $100k. In return, a person would receive 50% of that in cash ($50k) at the time they sign off on the life extending medical. The other $50k could be applied to the insurance premiums, thus reducing them as well.

Think about it. With your reduced insurance premiums, you would have a better month to month lifestyle. And the $50k cash could be used however you see fit. Perhaps a trip around the world trip while you are in your health 40's. Or it could mean that brand new diesel Silverado you've always dreamed about. Or just pass it on to your children as a start on their new house. Or just give away anonymously.

Wow!! The Thought Dock has been rebuilt and is again in tune. Don't you feel it! Like any motor in tune, it performs at its best. Feel it?.
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Maintaining the Dock

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Imagine that! The Thought Dock was running down. Literally. Maybe you guys feel it. I did. And the heavy use of flying insults in July really too its toll. It was about to be completely consumed by the forces of nature, so something had to be done to save her.

I think the dock was built in 1984. It appears to have been constructed of fresh fallen timbers from this very home site. Everything was rough cut, Douglas Fir. The steel nails were rusty and frail. And the deck was spongy to walk on. Some spots left you feeling that it was about to give way, right away!

The weather cats say that we are 20 inches below our average rain fall. Believe that? That's more than some places get in an entire year! And the Lake shows it. Even if you fell off or through the Thought Dock, I doubt you would drown. That is unless you dove in and sunk your head into the muck.

So, with the water level low, and the weather beautiful, it was a prime time to repair the Dock. And that is what I've been doing the past three days. But now it's done! Complete with all new pressure treated lumber. Solid enough for a jacuzzi if some one would bring one.

So, get ready. With the portal rebuilt, information will flow freely once again from the Thought Dock.
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Power of Unique

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So, what exactly does unique mean? To me, it means different. The thing that makes one sunset stand apart from another. The subtle difference in a smile that convinces you that you're liked. Similar things, but different in some way that you'll never forget.

Over the course of a lifetime, we tend to more easily recall things that to us were unique. That one teacher, that one kiss, that one place, that one movie, that one car, that one Christian, that one song, that one disciplining, that you will never forget.

And man do I like unique things. I spend a good deal of time studying people, places, and things for their unique attributes, whether good or bad. And I've found what is unique to one, might not be so to another. And some people can not recognize anything that is unique.

My Mom always told me that the easiest way to survive in this world (which some one I know calls it a ghetto), is to blend in with everything, and everybody; to stay out of the spotlight so to say. Although today, I don't think that was her best advice, I do think it is the safest thing to do. Play it safe and that's just what I did.

So, I was never driven to be a star on sports teams, I just wanted to be good enough to play. I never wanted to be the brain at school, just good enough to pass. I never wanted to be the ace detective, just good enough to earn my pay check. But in some ways, I was unique whether I meant to be or not. And, I think that is true with everyone.

And people rise to power and fame because they make themselves unique. Michael Jackson, Abba Zabba, Elvis, John Wayne, and the Long Legged MacDaddy are all very unique and survived and thrived by being so different.

So, are you unique? Do you work to be unique? Wear different clothes, hairstyles, or put on an act to be unique. Or, are you the type that just tries to blend in?

I think that those that came to know me, will remember me, for being unique. Some people think I'm a bit weird or strange, but I'd like to be remembered for standing for what I believe. My faith, my ethics, my honesty, my integrity, my patriotism, and openness, I think are unique, especially so in today's society.

And the wisdom of the Thought Dock is unique.
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What Time Is It?

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Not very long ago (when you look at the big picture), someone realized the value of dating history and establishing time in a way that everyone could understand and have the same calendar. And for that, a common reference point needed to be determined. So, someone picked the birth of Christ as that reference point. With that, began the modern day calendar.

So the world had a time line to reference all things to. Events that happened before the birth of Christ were denoted in years, numbered sequentially. Like the year 73 BC (or BCE to some) meant 73 years before His birth. And the year 1952 AD, meant the number of years after His birth. A pretty simple thing to understand, and I think a pretty logical place to establish a time line for history.

But, it has got to be rough on the scientists because most of them don't even believe in Christ. But they set historical events and date the age of things, referencing it all to someone they won't admit exists. I think that's ironic. They try to justify their various forms of evolution and big bang theories, in their effort to disprove His very existence. Now, I'll be the first to admit that science is vital to all of us, but it has limitations. They can judge, with some degree of accuracy the world's events, but they can not predict the future with any degree of certainty. But , neither of those concepts are really important to me.

Now, I would have preferred that our calendar time line began, not with the birth of Jesus, but with His death. That, to me is what matters because that was the day everything changed. For, from that day on, we were to be held accountable for the things we do.

As a Christian, although I understand the importance of history, that what has happened really doesn't affect the way I live my life now. Likewise, I am not overly concerned with what might occur in the future, because I am secure in my life as a Christian. I am prepared whether or not I pass on now, or be there when the trumpets sound.

The same holds true with how I deal with people. I'm convinced that there are many, even in America, that do not know Christ. And I have sympathy for them and try to reach out to them as best I can. They can not be judged as I will be, because they have not known Him. But, for those that have learned about Christ, and have turned their heads away, there comes a point where I'll go on without them, and will have no sympathy for them when they are judged.

So, is knowing what time it is all that important? To some degree it is. You need to know what time to go to work, how long to water the garden, or to prepare for winter. But in today's world, time is the source of stress. For me, most of that stress was relieved when I came to know God.
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Sundays and Old Ways

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In Those Days, by that I mean the day when I was a child, I lived just about everywhere one could imagine. Whether I lived in the plain states, or in the heavy industrial states, or in the farmlands, or along the east coast, or in Europe, Sundays seemed to be the same.

Sundays were spent with family. Most Sundays meant going to church while wearing the best clothes you had, then visiting with family or close friends. We usually had an early dinner of fried chicken, then settled around the TV together after everyone left to watch some family oriented program.

Other than taking the Chevy wagon on a Sunday drive, there really wasn't much else to do. The stores were closed as were all but a few key businesses like maybe a movie house, or Mickey D's. But we couldn't go there except only on the most special of days, when my dad had found some extra money in the budget. And that was how the Old Ways were for most people I knew.

By the time I began my family, things changed. More and more businesses were staying open longer into the evenings, then on the weekends, and then some went 24 hours a day nearly every day of the year. First were gas stations, then came super markets, and now, you can shop for most anything 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

But not here. Not in this town. Not in the Big Cities. Nowhere in this State that I know of. Yeah, you can still get groceries and gas here on the weekends but not much more. So thinking it was mainly the way it was in our town, last Sunday we skipped church (that was bad) and headed into the Bigger City to select some living room furniture. And we also planned to visit my inland area udda brudda, and his family after shopping.

Well after driving an hour and a half to the first Bigger City inland, we found only one of the two major stores open. Paid little attention to the close one, but couldn't find anything we liked in the other. So, were drove another hour or so to an even Bigger City. Of the two stores we planned to visit, neither were open.

At first thought, I couldn't believe it, and was rather irritated. We spent the extra time with the udda brudda, and that was fun. Then I realized that was the way Sundays were, when we did things in the Old Ways. And Those Days were the ones I liked best.

I guess living in the Biggest City on the west coast for so many years took a piece of me. Now I need to let that go. To love people and to love God, hear at the Thought Dock, and from wherever I travel.
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Jogging, Hiking, Cycling, in Oregon

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By looking at a map, it appears to me that Oregon is about 1/2 the size of California. But the population here totals 5.5 million, which is about the size of Los Angeles. If you've never been here, it's hard to realize the vast open areas often divided by cities of less than 10k. The three largest cities have less than 200k people. It's hard for me to imagine that if every man, woman, and child of my city went to Dodger Stadium, there would still be 45,000 seats left.

Few of the Oregon born ever cross the State's borders, even to just take a peek at what's out there. If they do, it's usually to Idaho or Canada, but certainly not to the heavily populated areas in California. And those that do venture out, seem to return here.

The people here are athletic and healthy. A large percentage exercise regularly, not at gyms, but by cycling, jogging, or hiking as a part of their regular everyday lifestyle. I've heard that Portland has the highest percentage of people that cycle to work in the nation, even though it rains a lot.

Thousands of people tour the length of the Oregon Coast year round by cycling Pacific Coast Highway, or walking the Oregon Coast Trail. There are thousands of Local, State, and Federal campgrounds, some having a thousand campsites each. And in the summer, they are always full. Everyone loves the outdoors. They spend their time fishing, hunting, hiking, boating, beach combing, and mountain climbing when ever they can.

And it seems that many attend church, or is a volunteer of some sort, somewhere, even the teenagers. They don't seem to have the wants that the people I grew up with have. For the most part, they are simple. Little make-up or plastic surgeries, few fancy cars or homes, or extravagant vacations. They are liberal though, but I respect that most of the time. They love nature, animals, and their neighbors for the most part. And most live a quiet, simple life. Many seem just to give away much of their stuff to the needy.

I guess there are other places across America like this. I sure hope so. It's a nice place, and I don't miss the life I once had. Just my family and friends, I guess. I have been blessed to have been led to the Thought Dock.
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Prayer and Faith

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I think I pray a lot, but I really don't know and surely I could pray more. What I do know is that prayer works. He has blessed me many times over and He has never failed me. He has answered each and every one of my prayers. That's not to say that all of my prayers have been answered in the way I would have liked, but they were answered.

Which brings me to the point of this post. I have read twice now in this past week where parents have prayed that their child's health would be restored. They knew their child was very sick, and continued their prayers, but never considered seeking medical attention for their child. And, each time their child died before their very eyes, as they prayed.

One father, upon his conviction in a Wisconsin court, said the fact that his daughter was taken from him by God would not deter his faith in God. He added that sickness is the result of sin and that it was God's will that his daughter die.

Another father in Oregon, overwhelmed with grief in court admitted he now believes that God would have wanted him to take his child to the doctor, although at the time, he believed God would heal the child Himself.

Now I know that some of you might take this as an offense, but I believe we can not prayer alone will solve all of our desires. I believe that through prayer, we should follow God's lead and what we can to help Him help us.

By that, I mean pray first and take action. Speak out against those that don't follow God's way. Do what you can to change them. Pray for your elected officials, but also be active in either supporting them, or doing what you can to get rid of them. Pray that the kidnapper returns his victim unharmed, but join the search if you can.

I am very sure that He heard the prayers of those parents. Just as sure as I am that He told the parents to take their children to a doctor, but they did not hear Him. Prayer is important, but hearing Him is even more important.
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MacDaddy Obama and his Friends

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I spent the last eight years of my career working Internal Affairs. I'm sure that some of you know what that is, but for those that don't, it's a very specialized investigative unit within some police departments that focus on bad cops. Now, prior to that I worked an undercover unit that focused on sleezy and immoral characters including, narcotics, alcoholics, gamblers, prostitution, pornography and the like.

Nearly all of my targets, whether civilian or sworn, I had never met or known before. I learned very quickly that to learn the most about a person is to study their family, friends, and associates. Examine them closely, and you will get an accurate picture of who he is. You see, immoral and unethical people run with the immoral and unethical. Dopers run with dopers. Liars run with liars. Alcoholics drink with alcoholics, and the examples go on. But good people run with good people.

And by following those basic tools, I was able to convict and send to prison some of the nastiest characters you could imagine, including a few cops. And by doing that, it should give you bit more of a hint as to who I am, and how I think.

That said, let's examine MacDaddy Obama. Most of us, including me had never even heard of the Mac prior to his presidential campaign. So, I first looked at his father. A Black Muslim from some turbulent country across the sea. And learning that Muslims advocate the murder of any Christian or Jew. And MacDaddy had a White mother, who was unable to articulate whether the Mac was an American Citizen.

And the Mac claimed to be poor, yet went on to Harvard, but never explained how. If it were a scholarship, you think he would boast about that, but it was likely some other source of funds. But where?

And he said he was a Christian, yet he accepts abortion as being proper. And he admitted that he went to church for twenty years and was married by Reverend White. A man who publicly hates America and Whites in general.

And MacDaddy made friends in law school before becoming a Senator in Illinois, the state that has had the most elected politicians put in prison or removed from office for ethics violations. And that other idiot that hosted Mac's first campaign party. The same guys that was convicted of plotting to bomb government installations across America in the 1970's. The same guy, that MacDaddy claimed he didn't know. And he was friends with that governor who tried to sell the Mac's Senate seat. There have been so many that I've lost track and forgotten some of their names.

Yes, it was the family, friends, and associates that prevented me from voting for MacDaddy Obama. But many American looked the other way because they felt it was wrong to judge someone because of his friends. And they believed in "Hope and Change" just like Hitler promised for the German people in the 1930's.

But everyday, the Mac's friends continue to emerge from their holes like serpents. MacDaddy's friends like the ones he has appointed to high ranking offices in our government. Look at them! Most are anti American, racists, tycoons and even crooks from the past. And now Gates!

Finally some of those that elected the Mac are beginning to see who he really is. They are hearing his lies about health care, his stupid remarks about racism, his apologies to terrorists and enemies for past policies, his failed promises to lower taxes and end the war, for considering to file charges against the FBI, his bailouts, and his irresponsible spending, and the list expands with every passing moment. Now they see him drinking beer and smoking in public (and not even an American beer at that). And now some are wondering, "Did I do the right thing? Who is this Messiah"

I said in a post a few weeks ago that MacDaddy Obama had slipped in the polls. And he will slip more as time exposes him. And I'll do all I can to see that happen.

I'm going for a beer at the Thought Dock, but I'm not the President.
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Sum Ting Wong

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OK. So how'd you do it?

Some one has manipulated my poll regarding water conservation. Just the other day, there were 2 votes for peeing into the toilet tank, and 2 for quitting bathing. But some one, some how, changed that. Now, it shows only one vote in each of those categories, but 4 in the quit watering the garden choice.

This site has apparently been hacked!! And that's very scary. Not so much for me, but for my avid followers.

Now, it seems possible for the hacker to hack my posts. How can one now trust the authenticity of the wisdom of the Thought Dock that I've been passing on to you? Very, very, scary. And it could cause the total failure of this blog. How mean would that be?

My Followers must have the confidence of knowing they can trust the wisdom published in this blog. So, be patient now, while I figure out how to defeat the Dark Ones that are attacking the very existence of the Thought Dock. But don't give up on me yet.

I'm not yet dead (or is it I not dead yet?)
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More Japanese Stuff

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I'm a people watcher. I study people. I guess that comes from my old profession. You can learn so much just by watching a person. For instance I know a few people who can tell with almost certainty when a person has a gun concealed in his waist band just by watching how the person walks. Amazing, but true.

Anyway, have you ever paid attention to one of those Japanese tour buses? You know, the ones that pull into a Mickey D's where the 50 tourists bail out, run around speaking their strange language, and pose for some pictures beneath the golden arches before setting off to see the next thing? Pretty funny at times.

If you look closer, you'll see that most of those tourists are in their 40-50's. And they are retired! So, I asked a Japanese friend about it.

Well, here's their gig. Unlike American who usually retire somewhere between age 62 and 70, the Japanese retire in their mid 40's. Most Americans begin to lose their health before they actually retire, and live just another 10 years or so beyond retirement. So many Americans spend their Golden Years attached to doctors and medications, and many have their dreams of retirement thwarted.

Now the Japanese plan their life drastically different, and what they do makes really big sense to me. Many Japanese obtain an upper level education by the time they are 18-20 years old and they set off into the workforce, as professionals, and many of those start their own businesses. Now, undoubtedly some work in the factories, but their plan for life is the same.

They work their butts off. I mean hard. Lots of hours and lots of productivity. They do that, saving a big chunk of what they earn for about 20 years. Then they retire and enjoy life while they are healthy for the next 10-15 years and spend almost all of what they had saved while working. They then return to work where they have medical benefits and remain there until they die. Pure capitalism at it's best.

An interesting concept to me. While both Americans and Japanes spend about the same tire in retirement, I think the Japanese make better use of things. Why not enjoy your gift of retirement life when you are younger, healthier, and full of spirit? And save those Golden Year times for when you feel like crap most of the time, and lack the spunk to do anything more than watching TV, writing Letters to the Editor, or even trying to pass along wisdom from the Thought Dock.

Why not reserve those times for your employer?
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