Now that's odd

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Suppose you host a family reunion at a public park and invited guests, some of which you have never met. Now, suppose that you notice a Black gentleman standing in line for the barbecue dinner. Unaware of any Black relatives in your family line, you think, "Now that's odd," and you take further investigative action only to determine he he a freeloader before kicking him out.

Suppose the ticket agent at your local drive-in notices the car entering the gate is sagging in the rear, yet there are no passengers in the back seat. So, he thinks, "Now that's odd." As he continues to watch, the car parks, and six teens climb out of the trunk. So they then are removed apprehended and kicked out of the show.

Now, a few months ago, the Long Legged MacMuslim noticed two people seated at his private party that he did not recognize. And, he thought, "Now that's odd." He summoned his guards and when they determined the people were uninvited, they were kicked out.

Each of these incidents are not racial profiling as some people claim. That is because each time something was odd enough to attract attention to themselves. And that is precisely why cops are trained as such. The more facts they learn about who commits crimes, where, when, how, and why the crimes occur, the easier it is for them to act upon a situation without profiling.

They begin their investigations based solely upon their knowledge, training, and expertise, and as the situation developes, their suspicions grow enough to where they can then effect a detention.

So, the allegations that the liberals are claiming are completely unfounded. MacMuslim's remark that families in Arizona having an ice cream cone in a town shop will be subject to harassment by the cops is completely out of line, and meant only to create fear in us. But, it was of no surprise to me considering the stance he took when his Black college friend was detained by the cops.

And why do most of you favor amnesty for the criminals that are entering this country? You'd be furious if some one sat at your dinner table without your invitation! There is no difference with how we must run this country. Illegal Aliens (or refuges as some of you are now calling them), have no right to invade our country, use our resources, and have their children. If we can't catch them all at the border, they should be caught where ever we find them.

I've got to check beneath the Thought Dock before they get that too!
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Law of the Land

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With the creation of man, so there were laws. God ruled over man through His law. And, He was the Judge, and He punished those that disobeyed His law. And, so it has been since the Forbidden Fruit was eaten.

And, as populations grew, God appointed leaders for us to follow in His way. And they made laws. And, he appointed judges to rule fairly on the laws, and executioners to punish offenders appropriately. And, He has instructed us to follow our leaders and obey our laws.

And, America was founded on these very principles. And, every American has the responsibility to obey the laws of our land, and the decisions made by the judges about the laws of our land. And, it should be comforting to know that God will hold our leaders and judges accountable for their actions if they are outside God's way.

So, whether I agree with our law or not, I'll abide by it. I'll not threaten or harm our leaders or judges if they act or rule against my favor. I'll wear a motorcycle helmet and obey the speed limit, if it is law. I'll pay my fair share of taxes without protest (keyword "fair") because it is law. I'll enforce the laws fairly if I'm in a position to do so. I'll go to war if my leader calls. And I'll encourage others to be as me.

For those that refuse to follow our leaders, refuse to obey our judges, or live by the laws of our land, I'll have no sympathy when God passes His judgement and punishments on them. I'll show no sympathy for our leaders or judges that are corrupt from God's way when their day arrives.

So, to those that kill doctors that perform abortions, or to those that removed the cross from a California war memorial after a judge ruled against them; may God have mercy on you.
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How much longer?

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Do you watch Survivor? I presume you do, because I do, and have done so for over a decade. And somehow (usually because I bring it up if some one else doesn't), the show becomes a topic of conversation at nearly every social event I attend. And, so it did just the other night while I was dining with friends. One thing now seems to be certain. The show is quickly losing interest with many of us. So why is that?

On another note, here are some facts that I've recently collected from various published sources: (1) Government spending was 24% of the Gross Domestic Product in 1950 and could hit over 50% this year. (2) Published reports from the IRS report that 60% of all Americans now receive more in income benefits from government than what they pay in, and that number will grow to 70% within the first term of the Halfblack MacMuslim. And (3), while everyone is expected to pay payroll taxes, IRS further states that only 47% of us do. And, many Americans are losing interest in America. So why is that?

Perhaps, if you are like me, you believed that Survivor was about "The best person winning." Perhaps, like me, you thought the group would eliminate the weakest person on the team and the most productive, strongest, and the one with the greatest degree of leadership would prevail to the end. Perhaps, like me, you realized that would not be the case. Instead like me, you saw the laziest, the biggest cheater, the boldest liar, and the most parasitic one ride the shirt tails of the strongest to victory. And so, Survivor is doomed as even I will turn away from it's viewership.

And perhaps if you are like me, you also believed in America. You believed believed in Truth, Justice, and the American way, only to see it erode before your very eyes. As with Survivor, the American winners are not the ones that work the hardest anymore, but are the ones that take from our system without ever contributing anything. And so, like Survivor, America is also doomed. As with me, and perhaps you, we will someday turn away.
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In his words

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SoCal BK contributed the following link, not for your entertainment, but for your education.

It is a compilation of video and sound bytes from speeches and statements made by our President. I had seen many of the clips before, but never assembled together so meaningfully as is in this one.

It should scare the daylight out of you! It is the MacMuslim at his best. You might have to copy/paste the following into your browser bar manually:

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=tCAffMSWSzY#t=28
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The Magic of the Kingdom

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I'll bet, and I sincerely hope that all of you have had the opportunity to visit Disneyland. And if you have, I hope that you have experienced how different Disneyland is today from what it was in Those Days.


In Those Days, entry tickets were sold at the gate, and depending on your social status, you could then purchase ride tickets of varying prices. Remember the "E-ticket?" How fortunate it was to be able to even hold one. It was held esteem because it was for only the best of the rides.


Walt realized that his park was dividing the people. There were some that could barely buy their way in and then could only watch others having the real thrills. And there were some that could afford to enjoy Pirates of the Caribbean as many times over, while most in my class had to chose a single ride. Maybe Walt saw me walking the park for hours, studying each ride to determine which one I wanted most. And, perhaps he saw me cry when I realized it was all over so quick and it would be years before I could ever come back. My family just could not succeed in his fantasy land.


So, during the 70's, the Magic Kingdom was born. With one single admission ticket, anyone could ride any ride (with the exception of the shooting gallery), as many times as they desired, in that single day. Instantly gone was the separation of the social classes at Disneyland. It truly was a Magic Kingdom where everyone was treated the same.


Walt knew that the key to success was to control the gate. That done, everything else would fall into place.


What a stellar idea. Control the gate! That is what America needs to do. Because, once inside legally, opportunities will be here for all to enjoy.
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Succeed or Secede?

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Shadowing over the Halfblack Mac, and even the Gulf oil spill news, the hottest topic of today seems to be the new Arizona State law regarding illegal immigration. I hope you are paying attention to this as it is even more important than any other issue at hand.

In a nut shell, Arizona enacted a law making it a State crime to enter America illegally. The law is no different from Federal statute, but merely emphasizes the authority of state cops to enforce Federal immigration laws. Nothing any different from what local cops have always done in the past. All cops have the power to arrest bank robbers, money counterfeiters, and interstate kidnappers, just as they always have had, all of which are federal offences.

It was in the mid 70's when the Peanut Farmer President relieved local cops from the burden of enforcing federal immigration laws. It was never said that the locals couldn't do it, but rather they should spend their time doing other things. And, since he believed the locals were too busy, why not give amnesty to the aliens already here? What a snow job that was! And, it got worse from there.
Cities like San Franfaggo, where the likes of Piglosi and Feinstein come from, made their cities sanctuaries for illegals and refused to do any enforcement of immigration law. But what the heck? That was just a precursor to ignoring federal law and allowing Gay marriages and pot smoking there. "Oh well," you say, but where will that lead to?

Back to Arizona. Look at the hoopla! People are protesting, but most of them are the illegals themselves. What right do they have? I heard one say, "I just came here to earn money for my family in Mexico. You are so cruel that you treat me as a criminal!" Well, she is!

And Major League Baseball announced that they have concerns about sending their teams to play in Phoenix because some of their players are paperless and could be arrested. Well, get them papered or get them out!

And other cities are cancelling their conference plans in Arizona for fear that their servants will get popped. Well, they should have been popped as they crossed he border. Twelve gauge poppers work the best!

Protests claiming discrimination, racial profiling, and civil rights violations are underway. Where were all these dastardly deeds before the Arizona law? The feds were trying to do their job then, but no one made those claims.

And, Halfblack Mac and his Quarterpounders are trying to block the law. That's no wonder. The Mac has never wanted to show his papers. He'd better stay away from Tombstone.

Arizona continues to have their citizens and cops murdered, their jails overflowing, and paying the overwhelming costs of social services for these illegals. And Arizona is not likely to give in.

Watch this issue closely as it bears very similar reasons America revolted against England over two hundred years ago. It is brewing.
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Where do you stand?

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Stand Alone: The beginning. A new thought. A new way. A new cause. The introducer. A stellar idea, but without the support of a following. Destined for failure.

Stand By: The idea spreads. The sheep like the shepherd's plan, but do little to help. Looking to enjoy the fruit, but do nothing to harvest it.

Stand With: Unification with the idea. Rally with the leader to achieve the intended results. Active in promoting the idea and doing what is necessary to obtain the objective. More than being part of a flock, but part of the fight.

So, where do you stand? Do you sit back while other do the work, just waiting to be fed? Are you active in a group and work to reach it's objective? Or, do you shout about things from the privacy of a darkened closet?

Do you simply drop the kids off at school, or do you find yourself as a chaperon for their field trips? Do you just attend your church, or are you doing what you can to spread the Word? Do you cut the trees down, or plant new ones? Are you the provider or the taker? Do you cover your eyes to avoid seeing the truth, or do you speak the truth?

Take a Stand!
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Join and Support the Club

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Clubs have been around since the dawn of ages. They are created to organize a group of people that share the same common interests, morals, and objectives. There is a club for everyone and every reason, and if there is not one yet, you can even start your own.

Why, America is even a club, of which I am a member! A few years back a group of people left their club to find a better way. A place to worship, away from heavy taxation, where they could work and play in their own way. What a success it has been, but we are on the verge of losing it.

All clubs have rules, and America calls theirs the Constitution. In exchange for obeying the rules, we are guaranteed certain benefits, rights, and protections. And, those that refuse to obey the rules, have the right to leave, or be removed from our club. But that is not happening, and that is precisely why our club could soon fail.

You see, first we allow people into our club that do not support its goals, or qualify for membership. Yes, we can set our membership criteria. Like being born here, or being voted in by completing membership courses. Just the same, we can remove people from membership when they no longer obey the rules. Generally, we just lock those kind away, or allow them to join another foreign club like Al-Queda.

Most clubs have some way of identifying their membership. A card, a uniform, or a secret word. And they should have, and when someone doesn't meet the look, they have a right, and an obligation to the club to react. Consider a person entering a Boy Scout meeting wearing a Girl Scout dress. To look the other way would not be in the best interest in scout clubs.

To make matters even worse, there are many clubs within our club. Like Club California, where they allow criminals to remain amok. Criminals like Illegal Aliens. And criminals like pot smokers and Gay marriages, even though they violate Club America's rules.

Now, when Club Arizona stands fast, not only in support of their rules, but America's as well, they become the villain members of those clubs. Arizona simply wants peace in their communities. Free of crimes by illegal aliens. Free to live their lives in peace by following and protecting the very laws of America.

The Thought Dock applauds Arizona for its commitment to observe American rules.
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It's your choice

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Life is full of choices, and often choices are nothing more than a gamble. I'm all for choice, but I believe that if you make the choice, only you are responsible for the outcome.

Suppose you chose not to pull over for the cop that is wanting to give you a ticket because you chose to speed. It's a gamble that could be gainful for you if you escape, but painful if you get caught. Your choice, either way.

Suppose you had your car and home paid off. It would be your choice whether to insure them. You could easily save a 100k over your life, if you did not have insurance as long as you never crashed your car or had a house fire.

The same can be said for medical insurance. I suppose that had I invested all my medical insurance premiums (whether paid by for me or my employer) over the years, I'd easily would have a million dollars or so in the bank. And, since I've been relatively healthy over the years, I would have paid little out of pocket fees. But, I chose to keep insurance, so the insurance company prevailed. And I'm not complaining. It was my choice.

That said, I would feel no sorrow for one that got cop beat for trying to escape. Nor, sadly would I feel sad for the ones that had car crashes, home fires, or medical catastrophes, if they chose to go without insurance.

But most people do feel sorry and continually bail them out for their own mistakes. The government repairs their home after the earthquake when they have no insurance. The government pays for their heath care even though they chose not to insure themselves, and many community contributors donate money to those that wreck their cars.

But would any of these people share their wealth with me if their gambles paid off for them? Would the winner of a Keno game share his money with me, or would he even reimburse me for the quarters I put in that very machine just before him? I think not.

Remember this: The government can not give anything to anyone without first taking it away from some one else.

These issues stream to me live through the Thought Dock portal every day. And, my choices get even easier.
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Mister M

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In Those Days, my family returned from Europe and settled at the base of the San Bernadino mountains of California, Zip 93550. It was 1967 then, and atop that mountain was a little known air defense installation where my father worked. We rented a house in the community of 8300 where I attended high school. Today, 93550 has a population well over 160k and has at least 3 public high schools.

In Those Days, there was corporal punishment in public schools. For those that were not around then, a teacher was authorized to discipline students with physical force without fear of going to prison. And, this is my story.

I feared Mr. M as did most everyone in the school. He taught Mechanical Drawing (a precursor to architect and engineering). He hung a wooden paddle on his desk which he used to beat (he called them swats) students into submission when they disobeyed. And those that got beat, then could autograph the paddle. I remembered him well, not so much for his attitude toward discipline, but for what he taught me.

Mr. M taught me the basics of blue printing and design, a skill which I use almost daily. Without any other training in the field, I designed, blue printed, and built my first room addition in 1978. From there, I designed a four-field Little League baseball complex that later became a public sports complex, and a multi-level home in the hills, various building projects at work, and the home I currently live in, including the Thought Dock itself. All from a single semester in Mr. M's class.

So, 43 years later, and 863 miles north of that 93550 town, I was having breakfast in Zip 97439, a small town of about 8500. I was with a group of church friends whom I knew little about. And during the "small talk," I overheard one man state that he once taught school. As it turned out, I realized it was Mr. M! For a brief period of his life, he lived and taught school, and the very (and only) class where I was beaten. How bizarre is that?

And to top things off, Mr. M kept his paddle as a trophy all these years. So, last night he brought the paddle to Bible Study to boast. And there it was. My name, etched among the list of the many others that paid his price.

Thanks Mr. M. Not for the beating, but for what you contributed to my life.
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Use it.. Pay for it..

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I know that all of you know that I have been dwelling deeply about taxes these past few weeks. And, I know that all of you know that I think a bit differently than many of you. But, I can't help myself sometimes. Bear with me though this one and I'll slack off taxes for the next few days.

Government provides many different services. Some of those services are mandated by our Constitution. Things like national security and the courts to protect our freedoms. But, the vast majority of the things government does for us are not mandatory services.

Federal, state, county, and city governments all have emerged as America matured. And, as a result services such as social security, education, police and fire, roads, parks, welfare, and in some areas, rubbish collection, water, sewer and other services. All of these services are commonplace in America today, and are funded by the collection of taxes. And, that means every tax payer pays for those services whether they use them or not.

Now, I'm not advocating that we eliminate any of these services, but I am advocating that those that use the services, pay for them. And, I know that the idea will not be favored by many of you, especially if you are using the services frequently.

As an example, I would favor eliminating the portion of taxes collected to build and maintain our park system, and instead collect fees (usage fee) from the individuals that use the parks. Much like the our road system is funded through fuel taxes, which are paid for by the people that drive on the roads. If you don't drive, then you don't pay for the roads.

So, if your kids are in school, or you go to college, you pay for it, not me. And, if your house catches fire, or you get lost at sea or on Mount Hood, or you create a disturbance that causes the police to respond; you pay for those services. If you need an ambulance, you pay for it. If you build a house, pay those fees. And, if you swim in the city pool or library, you pay for it.

I use many of these services very often, and I'd rather pay for it when I use it, than pay for it in taxes even though I might never use the services. It is not my responsibility to contribute to your college education, the down payment on your car or home, or to foot the bill for your health care, unless I choose.

And, if my taxes are lowered, I might be more able and proud to give to those that need assistance. Just as I choose to share the Thought Dock with you.
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Word of the day: Dhimmitude

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Dhimmituse. You must be asking, "What's that? I've never heard of it. It's certainly not English." Well, you had better learn. Look it up, if you want. But, I'd rather tell you what it is myself because it reflects the attitude of this blog.

Dhimmitude: Dhimmitude is the Muslim system of controlling Non-muslim populations conquered through Jihad. Specifically, it is the taxing of Non-muslims in exchange for tolerating their presence, and as a coercive means of converting conquered remnants to Islam.

ObamaCare is the establishment of Dhimmitude and Sharia Muslim doctrine in the United States . Muslims are specifically exempted from the government mandate to purchase insurance, and also from the penalties for being uninsured. Muslims are protected because Islam considers insurance to be "gambling" and thus, banned.

So Non-muslims will get IRS fines, liens, or potentially imprisoned, should they refuse to buy insurance. Meanwhile, Muslims will have no such penalties and will have their healthcare provided by the government insurance for free. Non-muslims will pay for the Muslim healthcare through taxation. That is Dhimmitude.

Dhimmitude serves two purposes: It enriches the Muslim masters, and serves to convert people to Islam by convincing both Christians and the Godless to jump aboard Islam to get the free healthcare, which many will do.

Remember that word. You'll see it used more and more unless the Halfblack Mac redacts it from use just as he did with the term "Islamic Extremists".
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I am a Taxpayer

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A taxpayer is one that works or has income sufficient enough to pay taxes in America. That's me! The odds are that it is not you.

I saw a news video the other day about a Tea Party rally somewhere in America. One activist carried a sign saying, "I am the taxpayer." Now, who was he trying to impress?

There was a day in America that being a taxpayer meant something because you would be part of the majority of Americans. Not so any more according to the Treasury Department's own report. If you pay federal taxes in America you are not in the majority, and you have no credible clout in American politics.

The American taxpayer did not elect the Halfwhite Mac Daddy and his friends. Why would they, unless they were stupid and fell into his "Change" campaign? And, if they did they are or soon will, see the light.

The strength in numbers are with the ones who don't pay federal taxes. And that's 53%, meaning most Americans. So most Americans will be able to get their way in America, and that means taxing the taxpayers even more to support "their" ways. Their ways are not to work, not to pay taxes and to get the most amount of freebies they can. Ever wonder why ACORN spent so much time recruiting voters from the likes of those that don't work? It's because the "takers" will overwhelmingly support their socialistic views.

More and more Americans are actually refusing, or no longer have a desire to work, but are content with what they can get for free from the government. And the water beneath the Thought Dock is being drained.
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Screaming thoughts

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Recently I was reading a blog where the author was complaining about working very hard to eliminate debt and reduce spending only to learn that his/her tax liability was greater than it ever had been in the past.

Someone left a simple, but honest comment on the blog stating the he/she was unable to share sympathy with the author because they received nearly 9k in tax refund.

Now, I suspect that to obtain a refund so large the commenter probably was eligible for some government stimulus offerings (freebie) and may have bought a new car or a home. Don't get me wrong, I, not attacking the commenter because he/she was only taking from what the government (we) offered.

But it just goes to sledge hammer home my points in previous posts. That "Nothing is for free." Some of us (but growing fewer by the day) have to pay for those freebies. "No one" (and growing more by the day) can resist accepting something that is free to them. That's a given. But, for those that are paying the taxes, get nothing for free, and it is not fun.

So, as the numbers of those getting the freebies grow, the more they will overwhelm the minority and demand more from those that have more. That's socialism. Unless this country changes course quickly, it will implode upon itself. America can not sustain this ideology.

I am not "Speaking Words of Wisdom" and we should not just "Let it Be." I am though, screaming my Thoughts from the Dock.
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Tax Day

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Do you know Jesse James? No, not the cowboy that robbed the rich to support himself, but the owner of American Choppers, and the estranged husband of the socialist Sandra Bullock. You know, the guy that blindsided her by porking as many women as he could while she was filming Blindside. Kinda like an all White Tiger Woods, if your know what I mean. A wolf disguised as something else just waiting for his prey.

Well, as much as I admire Harley Davidson custom motorcycles, I despise Jesse. Although having suffered 3 divorces, one to a porn queen that served prison time for tax evasion, and a convicted felon himself, and a once Hell's Angel (if that's even possible), he builds a bike nasty enough to ride Sandra itself.

So, tattooed on the palm of his left hand is printed "PAY UP." So, as he extends his open hand toward someone owing him, they are sure to get the message. Maybe it dates back to his Hell's Angel days, but more likely it came during his American Chopper television show when he built a bike for a wealthy client and with held the delivery trying to collect 370k for the bike. If I remember right, a court ruled against him forcing him to release it for under 100 grand.

Well anyway, I often have flashbacks of his extended palm, but as I dream on, I see the blue shirt sleeve leading to Uncle Sam tapping his cane at me. "Pay up," he demands! "Help your brudda out."

Then scared into consciousness, I awake from the nightmare in a sweat. Although Sandra was not dreaming when Jesse raped her innocence, I feel her pain. And just as real, Sam is raping me though taxes.
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Even

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Even a Lion knows his enemies. But the mighty Half-black Mac does not believe America is at war.

Even a Jihadist knows he is an Islamic extremist. But the radical Half-white Mac removed refuses to call them so.

Even the King of Saudi Arabia extended his hand for a shake. But the Long Legged Mac Daddy bowed before him.

Even all Americans know we have Constitutional Rights in this country. But the Half-black Mac extends our rights to terrorists captured outside our borders, by soldiers of another country.

Even Christians know that fundamentally Islam hates them. But Obama welcomes Muslims.

Even though our President promised Americans no tax increases, he will.

Even a blind man knows when he is walking in sunshine. But Obama lurks in the shadows.
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Even...

Pass the gravy.

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Ever wonder how your Federal Tax dollars are spent?

Washington will spend $31,406 per household this year, but it will only collect $18,276 per household in taxes. The remaining $13,130 represents this year's deficit.

Here is the breakdown of the 31k that each household will get as recently published by the tax guys themselves:

Social Security/Medicare: $9,949. Trouble is - Those households with Social Security or Medicare usually don't pay taxes.

Defense: $6,071. Covers everything from military paychecks, the various wars, and development of new technologies and equipment.

Antipoverty programs: $5,466. Subsidies to State Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, food stamps, housing subsidies, child-care subsidies, Supplemental Security Income and low-income tax credits. It has grown an additional 32 percent since the end of 2008 under the Half-whit Mac Daddy. Trouble is that those households that take this give a way, don't pay taxes.

Unemployment benefits: $1,640. Unemployment costs have surged by 411 percent during the recession. Trouble is those on unemployment don't pay taxes.

Interest on the federal debt: $1,585. The federal government is $13 trillion in debt. The national debt is set to double by 2020.

Veterans' benefits: $1,052. These guys deserve it!

Federal employee retirement benefits: $1,018. A big chunk of this goes to Senators and Congressmen after only serving a single 4 year term!

Education: $914. Most federal dollars are spent on low-income school districts, special education and college student financial aid. Trouble is that those those that get this don't pay taxes.

Highways/mass transit: $613. Funded mostly from the 18.4 cent per-gallon federal gas tax. Washington subtracts an administrative cost and sends this money back to the states with numerous strings attached.

Health research/regulation: $550. This category also includes the FDA, grants programs for health providers, and research to determine whether soda pop is unhealkthy and should be taxed.

Mortgage Credit: $470. This category includes the first time home buyer's program, refinancing for troubled home owners, and the clunker program. Trouble is that most of those that qualify for these credit don't usually pay taxes.

So who actually pays taxes around here? Well, I do! Now I'm not at odds with helping a brother out, but do they really need gravy on the potatoes that I buy for them?
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Wagons Ho!!!

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Often, I post about Those Days. And by that, I'm recalling from my memory what my life was about then. And Those Days, for me is quite likely different from what your memories are. Different.... Separated by time, location, culture, and Faith.

I love to talk about Those Days and really like to hear about the days of others, particularly of elders. So much so, that sometimes when I had free time as a cop, I would stop by the local convalescent hospital and chat with those whose lives were nearing maturity. They were usually lonely, and some welcomed most anyone for a visit and chat. Their stories were fascinating, but most of the time I couldn't really comprehend what it would be like to live them.

Recently, I visited with a lady probably 40 years my elder. Sharp, witty, and with an incredible memory. Now, I've heard stories about wars and dust storms, the depression and hard times, one-room schoolhouses and plowing fields, and prisoners of Nazi Death Camps. But this gal, told an amazing story that I had never, ever heard.

She told a story of her first hand experience in a covered wagon. If I understood correctly, her family obtained a homestead "out west." Unable to afford to travel by locomotive or automobile, her grandfather obtained transportation by wagon train. And during that travel, a portion of the wagon train was attacked and massacred by the Indians!

Our time was short, but I'm sure I'll hear another. Maybe on Sumday Soon.
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A proud American speaks

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This statement was written by Walt Turske, Cleveland, Ohio. I thought I'd share it with you as it supports my views (and hopefully yours).

I Am the Liberal-Progressive's Worst Nightmare. I am an American.

I am a Master Mason and believe in God. I ride Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and believe in American products. I believe the money I make belongs to me and my family, not some liberal governmental functionary, Democratic or Republican!

I'm in touch with my feelings and I like it that way!

I think owning a gun doesn't make you a killer; it makes you a smart American.
I think being a minority does not make you noble or victimized, and does not entitle you to anything. Get over it!

I believe that if you are selling me a Big Mac, you should do it in English.

I believe everyone has a right to pray to his or her God when and where they want to.

My heroes are John Wayne, Babe Ruth, Roy Rogers, and Willie G. Davidson, who makes the awesome Harley Davidson Motorcycles. I don't hate the rich.. I don't pity the poor.

I know wrestling is fake and I don't waste my time watching or arguing about it.

I've never owned a slave, or was a slave. I haven't burned any witches or been persecuted by the Turks, and neither have you! So, shut up already.

I believe if you don't like the way things are here, go back to where you came from and change your own country!

This is AMERICA ..I like it the way it is! If you were born here and don't like it you are free to move to any Socialist country that will have you.

I want to know which church is it, exactly, where the Reverend Jesse Jackson preaches, where he gets his money, and why he is always part of the problem and not the solution. Can I get an AMEN on that one?

I also think the cops have the right to pull you over if you're breaking the law, regardless of what color you are. And, no, I don't mind having my face shown on my driver's license. I think it's good.... And I'm proud that 'God' is written on my money.

I think if you are too stupid to know how a ballot works, I don't want you deciding who should be running the most powerful nation in the world for the next four years.

I dislike those people standing in the intersections trying to sell me stuff or trying to guilt me into making 'donations' to their cause.......Get a Job and do your part!

I believe that it doesn't take a village to raise a child, it takes two parents..
I believe 'illegal' is illegal no matter what the lawyers think.

I believe the American flag should be the only one allowed in AMERICA ! I want our country back! I want God back in our country! We live in the Land of the Free only because of the Brave.

Having the Numbers

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I'm sure that at one time or another most of you have watched "Survivor." If not, the jist of the show is that a group of people compete against one another in various ways to avoid elimination, which is determined by a vote of their peers.

At first thought, one might say that the winner would come from the person that did the completions the best. But, we all have learned that is not true. The winner comes from the player that has obtained the "Numbers." That is carrying the vote of their peers.

So, to get the numbers, contestants need to win the vote of their peers, and most will do just about anything to do it. They do it by deception, sex or flirtation, making promises they know they will never keep, lying, cheating, or stealing. Whatever it takes to get the numbers, and ultimately get what they wanted. See a parody?

So, such is with most any leader. Few actually earn their way into the position. Most will do anything, promise anything, lie, cheat, steal, or use sex and scandals to get the numbers, which gets them there. And, once they are their they will do most anything to keep their position.

While one can see these tactics used in many different ways, from rising through the ranks at work, to being the captain of a sports team, it is politics that bothers me the most.

And, that is precisely what Halfblack Mac did. He fooled, lied, cheated, or somehow convinced most of you to vote for him. Trouble is, what now?

As with most who come to power in this fashion, they have ways to retain it. And, as they feel the pressure when their followers begin to fade, they employ ever increasing methods of oppression and keep their position. From the Biblical times to more recent examples like Castro, Hitler, Chavez, Hussein, the Iranian, North Korean, Russian, and Chinese leaders, they have all done it the same way.

Halfblack Mac is building the walls, surrounding himself with those that will serve him, and building his defense when the days come that most of you wake up. But, will it be too late by then?
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Views

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We all have views. No, I'm not talking about the scenic views from the Thought Dock, but how we see the world. Now, that's confusing too. Not how we see the world (through binoculars or from space), but how we view what we see. I give up! Let me explain.

One person's view of something is quite likely different that that of another person viewing exactly the same thing. Like looking at something through the eyes of a slave's descendant, or as a woman, or from a devoted religious affiliation (or lack thereof), or from one's ancestry. And, we all have view, and our views are influenced by these kinds of factors whether we admit them or not. And, sometimes we don't even realize it.

JFK saw things though the eyes of a devout Catholic and as did Jimmy Carter, who showed great concern for equality. Mitt Romney couldn't gain his party's endorsement for President because he was a Mormon. Hillary Clinton was heavily supported by flocks of females. The wealthy Bush's were carried by fellow business tycoons. And certainly the Halfblack Mac Daddy had his following as evidenced by who he placed into his cabinet.

For me, I align my self as a White (although Italian) male, of Protestant faith, from a military family who worked hard to achieve my upper middle class designation, having a law enforcement background, and with no significant education. So, my views are usually quite conservative and patriotic.

You know, it's important to know what drives your views, and what drive the views of others. To do so, is to better understand why certain things occur. But, even if you don't realize it, our views are often driven solely by these things. And, it is normal to align ourselves to people that share our views, yet we are all taught to be open, unbiased, and tolerant of other person's views.

But can we? Not me! Referencing various Biblical recordings saying in essence, "If you are not with me, then you are against me" is my philosophy. Seems I heard the previous President say that too. And that is problematic to some because they think that attitude is bias. Perhaps it is. But I can not support anyone that I believe is against me. They are my enemy and I don't trust them. I try to align myself with as many people that think like me, because they are my friends. Well, I still listen to those with opposing views, but I won't let them be as close to me like my real friends are.

Anyway, please take the poll to the left. And, be honest (at least in your eyes).
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Now look what he did!

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When will this stop? Doesn't he get it? Or, does he get it and does exactly what he wants to destroy this country?

I'm talking about the Long Legged Mac Daddy.

Just a few days ago I watched a news story about the Space Shuttle program ending in the fall of this year. Just 3 more flight and it's done. All good things must come to an end, but I thought the leader would replace the Shuttle good thing with something even better.

But the report stated that was not the case. It seems temporarily, America will bum rides into space from the Russians, at a cost the Russians will determine. First, I thought what does "temporary" mean in this case. But the report went on to say that America will encourage private companies to test and develop transportation into space, which NASA will then buy rides from them. Well, I'm sure private companies can surely figure out how to get the job done, perhaps even better than NASA.

Here is the scary thing. Do you realize the difference between transporting an astronaut into space, and rocketing a nuclear war head toward anywhere in the world, including right back here? There is none! So, how does a country prevent a rogue private business from holding us hostage because they now have the means to deliver a nuke? They could even sell that technology to another person, group, or country. This is frightening to me. Am I the only one?

Now, within the last hour, the news reported that Halfblack Mac, has just release for publication, this nation's nuclear defense plan. It's all on the table for anyone to read. It states clearly just who we would use our nuke force against, and under what circumstances! That is nuts!

Remember how many games the Colts won before it was discovered that they essentially had the play books of their opponents? Now everyone has Americas's playbook!

I'm beginning to think that America can not endure the Mac Daddy, even for the rest of his term.
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Lollipops and Empties

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Have you ever found a $20 bill in your pants pocket or at the bottom of your purse that you didn't know was there? Ever placed a quarter bet in that Keno machine only to win the $400 jackpot? Ever stood at the plate when you got that one right down the middle? Or just found something that was just too good to be true?

These are things that I call Lollipops. Everyone likes Lollipops and everyone has come across them many times during their life. It's very easy to be aboard the Good Ship Lollipop.

But, I'm sure you have all experienced the opposite a time or two. Realized that you left your money home and couldn't pay for your purchase? The feeling that you are down to your last few quarters and haven't hit anything yet? Remember the time your car was out of gas? Or stooped to pick up that sea shell only to find that it was broken. Or took that 3rd strike? Those are things that I call "Empties." And, Empties suck. Well, most of the time....

Well, I must tell you that the greatest Lollipop that one could imagine, came as a result of an Empty. You see, that Lollipop came from an empty tomb. For me (and I hope for you too), the Resurrection of Jesus from that grave was the greatest gift ever.

Happy Easter!
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He was born poor, but died rich ...

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...... and, he never hurt anyone along the way.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnRqYMTpXHc

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Love your Neighbors?

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We don't really have a neighbor here, and I can't say that I miss not having one either. Aside from the sound of occasional chainsaw or a passing kayak on the Lake, it is really quite quiet and peaceful. And, I like it like that!

In Those Days, we usually lived in a neighborhood with neighbors. But, had it not been forced by my children playing with their children, I likely would have had little to do with any of them. There were, of course, a few exceptions and some day I'll write about them. But not today!

One Sunday morning (circa 1980) I was lying on the couch trying to watch a football game while the rest of my family went to church (that's the way it was....then). Well anyway, it was not long before I heard a lawnmower start. Nothing unusual during winter in SoCal. But what was odd, was that my neighbor had never moved his grass himself ever before, because this guy was just plain geeky.

It wasn't long before I heard the "sound." A sound I knew because I had even caused that very same sound a time or two myself. It was the sound of a mower blade chewing up a sprinkler head so hard that it kills the motor. And since the neighbor did not have any sprinkler heads of his own, I knew it was mine.

Not wanting to deal with the issue at hand, I just laid there covering my forehead and listening to the game. I could visualize what he was doing. You know, turning the mower on it's side and looking under to see just what happened. And, I really though he was trying to raise the blade height. Wrong.

I guess about 15 minutes passed before I heard that mower restart. I was really surprised at that. But within seconds this time, I heard the exact same noise again. Holy crap! Was this guy going to destroy every one of the sprinklers that I just installed a few weeks before? I couldn't let the idiot do that, so I jumped from the couch and ran outside.

There he was. Proud as heck of his brand new lawnmower. So he says, "I'm sorry, but I think I just hit a couple of your sprinklers." Now, how did he figure that out?

First I asked why he was mowing my lawn (the part between his property and my driveway), and he said he just thought that was the neighborly thing to do. I told him that I could understand hitting the first one, but asked why did he continue along the same path to hit the very next one. He said that he thought if he pushed the machine faster he could pass over it before the blade could catch the sprinkler.

I just went back inside without saying a word and returned to the game. I guess I should have gone to church like I was supposed to do.

You know, I never saw him mow his lawn again!
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What's in that bucket?

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In Those Days, my father called money "skins." I'm not sure where or how he came up with that, but I never heard anyone other than Pop use that word in that context. I do know that once, a man's wealth was determined by the amount of animal skins he possessed. So, like Pop, I'll use it on this post.

Now, Americans are known for there generosity all over the world. No matter who, no matter what country, no matter the reason, Americans have been there unlike no other people. And they have given their skins for the cause.

In America, we are even more involved in providing for "Needies." It has been a rapidly growing way of life for us. Every state has "Welfare" funded by taxing the "More Fortunates" to help the Needies.

I know that some of my Followers are well versed in Welfare, but for those that are not, here is an how it works: The state collects the skins from the More Fortunates and puts them into the "Big Bucket." A portion of the collection goes to paying for the administration of the system. That creates jobs, thereby reducing the amount of Needies. Then those Needies can contribute their own skins into the Big Bucket like the rest of us because they are no longer less fortunate or unfortunate, and are paid more skins than some of the More Fortunates. And, so they then become "Ex-needies."

Other Needies then apply for skins from Welfare. The Ex-needies determine the number of skins the Needies really need. Theoretically, the Needies are awarded just enough skins to get by. The Needies then obtain their own smaller bucket to keep their skins in as they spend them. Sometimes we wonder just how the Needies survive based upon the limited number of skins they are given by the Ex-needies. Well, here is how they do it:

Some Needies do actually work, but hide their earnings in their bucket because they know the Ex-needies will cut them off if they acquire too many skins. Some Needies get skins from their loved ones but don't tell anyone either. Some Needies collect skins from the More Fortunates by begging on the street and in front of Walmart. Still other Needies get still more skins from other organizations like churches and charity groups, school lunch programs, or by stealing. Some Neediest even get more skins by filing a new claim with the Ex-neediest under a false name. And some Neediest are just given more skins by the More Fortunates just because they feel sorry for them because the Needies give the appearance they are actually needy. And having said that, some Needies actually are not actually needy, and may have more skins than some More Fortunates.

So, the next time you put extra skins into the Needies' bucket, think about what might already be in it.
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Pray Politically

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My most radical Follower sent me the following prayer. I'm not sure whether he or she wrote it, but according to my investigation, it is fact based. So, here it is. It speaks for itself.

Now I sit me down in school

Where praying is against the rule

For this great nation under God

Finds mention of Him very odd.

If Scripture now the class recites,

It violates the Bill of Rights.

And anytime my head I bow

Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green,

That's no offence; it's a freedom scene.

The law is specific, the law is precise.

Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall

Might offend someone with no faith at all

In silence alone we must meditate,

God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,

And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.

They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.

To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,

And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.

It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,

We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong.

We can get our condoms and birth controls,

Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles

But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,

No word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess,

When chaos reigns the school's a mess.

So, Lord, this silent plea I make:

Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Amen!

Enjoy your weekend!
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Ain't nothing for free

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I've listened to people around this town, mostly seniors because that's all that live here, about their medical struggles. It's sad to listen about their pains and illnesses, and the fact that they can't seem to find adequate care. Most of them have Medicare, and the Oregon Heath Plan (OHP), which is similar to California's Medical.

One conversation was with a person that has a painful back problem and is prescribed powerful and expensive pills. Seems surgery is out of the question, so she has no alternative but to rely on her pain pills. She also said that Medicare has a yearly maximun on prescription drugs, which she seems to exhaust by April. Then OHP kicks in and partially pays for the pills, but she can not afford her co-pay, so she goes without. And, that keeps her bed ridden for eight months out of the year.

We recently spoke about the newly adopted Obamacare. She was delighted, needless to say. With the new program, she believes she will soon be able to get her pills free for the entire year though Medicare. And, I'm happy for her because I know she suffers.

But I am concerned that there will be millions of others that will now receive that entitlement even though they have never, and never will pay into that system. And, that I don't understand.

Compare this scenerio. Imagine that you are driving your car, which is uninsured, when you have an accident. So, you just go down to the local agent and purchase an auto policy at the same rate that I pay for insurance, that would in turn, pays the cost of repair to your previously wrecked car. Sound crazy? Well, that is what the Obama Clan say they just did.

And the Long Legged MacDaddy claims that my rates will drop because everyone will be insured. Get it? I don't.
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Crunching Coins

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Yesterday morning, very early, I took my wife to PDX to hop a flight to DEN to visit the kids for a week or so, to play in the snow, at Steamboat Springs. Well, someone had to remain home for CritterCare (and no, it's not part of ObamaCare). Besides, I hate to be cold.

Well, during the preparation for the trip, we realized that due to the downward spiral of our economy, we were forced to give up our cell phones. Actually, just one because my spouse chose to give up her custom fake nails to keep her phone. So mine got sacrificed.

Anyway, it occurred to us, how does one contact the other to coordinate the airport pick up time? Especially, when you're flying in or out of DEN in the winter. So fearing that we couldn't do without a second phone, I headed off to our local Fred Meyers store (it's a Pacific Northwest take off of K-mart).

And not wanting to get locked in on another long term contract, I purchased a TracFone. Actually, I was quite impressed with it because it has the same features of our other phone, and it came with 10 minutes of air time, and a charger. But, the better part was, the kit only cost $8.00. Yep eight dollars!

No here's the best part. On the way to PDX my wife's phone went dead even though she had a full charge just hours before. She's been complaining about her battery life for many moons now, but they are $30 at Sprint and $12+shipping on EBay. And then I realized, the TracFone battery was the same as her Samsung dead one. So I traded her because I can use the charge on mine while I drive to PDX to pick her up in a week, and she will have a strong batter to use while she is sitting near the fireplace at that hoity toity bar on the slopes!

What a guy! And, I ain't talking about that stud she might be sitting next to (like her son). I'm talking about me! I just bought a new batter and a charger for her phone for 8 bucks! So, even if I never use it, the TracFone was a true value.

How about that for crunching coin?
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Inclinations

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Now, I've always had a love for fixing, building, or improving stuff.

In Those Days, it became apparent that I was mechanically inclined. I think it first came to light when I was about eight when I learned that I could rotate the arms and legs of my sister's dolls to a certain position where I could then remove them from their sockets. And, I also realized I could replace an arm with a leg which would make her cry.

It was also about that time when my mom taught me to fix a flat on my bike by prying the tire off with a butter knife. The trick was to do it without pinching the tube against the rim causing yet another hole to repair. Having few tools around the house, I learned to do the repair without even taking the wheel off the bike.

Those early times led to more projects, many of which were failures. Like building a raft from 55 gallon oil drums that sank before it's first voyage on Sheepheads Bay. Like, buliding a skateboard from a wooden plank and a pair of metal wheeled shoe skates, that led to a doctor's visit when the wheels vibrated off. Like building a small gasoline powered jet engine to power a car built with Erector Set parts, that led to setting a field on fire. Like completing a valve job on an old Plymouth, only to experience failure because I forgot to tighten a few bolts. Like and a room addition intended for slumber parties (they call them sleep overs now I think), that was only completed after my children moved away. Like setting fence posts at our first house that resulted in short circuiting electricity to an entire neighborhood.

But there were triumphs as well. Building a performance engine gave me the power I needed to easily pull a camp trailer with the family car. Overhauling an automatic transmission on the kitchen table. Replacing the roof on my children's great grandmother's house. Designing and building a hill side home. Raising the funding, designing and then building a youth baseball complex. Building a work station area for my peers. And, my final project, the Thought Dock and the accompanying house.

Time for a rest, I'd say!
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What makes one happy?

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Morale is how somebody feels emotionally. I never really put much thought into this subject until I began my law enforcement career. There, it was called "Esprit De Corps" which is the morale of a group of people, and it was proven to affect work performance. Esprit De Corps exists nearly everywhere and in every group. From church, to the football field, and the Salvation Army to the United States Army.

But what is happiness? I mean the morale of an individual. As in what makes a person happy?

Is it about where he lives, or the size of his house? Or is it the car he drives, or the vacation his takes. Is it how much he earns, or what he has acquired with those earnings. Is it about who his father was, or the accomplishments of his children? Or, is it about what he has built, or what he has destroyed? Is it about what he has given, or what he has taken? Is it about whether he owns his own company, or works for another? Is it about the person he elected, or is it that he was elected?

You know, all of these factors surely effect one's happiness to some degree. But, I find that one's personal happiness is determined by his own personality, rather than those around him.

I have seen or met many that can attest to that. Even as they search for a way to feed their family in the hut of poverty stricken country, they are seen as happy. Even as they lead their donkey drawn wagon around the air conditioned car, they seems happy. Even though their father was in prison, they strive to be honest citizens. Even though they work hard to provide an education for their, they remain happy when they fail. As they clean the floors of the office of their employer, they remain happy. Even though they have failed, they keep trying.

But, more often that is not the case. More often we let the people around us effect our morale. Now, if they are uplifting, we are uplifted. That bad news is that when we surround ourselves with people of low morale, our attitudes generally follow.

So my point is, "Don't worry. Be happy." Your morale is controlled by you. Your life is what you make it. Don't allow others to control your morale. Even during the most challenging or desperate of times, you can be happy if that's what you want.

Even as one who seems to seldom smile, I am happy. Very happy. I am happy with where I've been, where I'm at, and where I'm going. I have "Been there" or "Done that" for everything that is within reason, and I don't want to do it again.
Trust the Lord. Pursue your dreams. Speak out loud. Cast your vote, but keep your happiness whatever the result. You really can!
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What will we do now?

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Well, at the time of this writing, the vote is just around the corner. But the prediction are that Obamacare will prevail.

I think you all know how I feel about the health care issue, but I've done my part, and have expressed my views at every opportunity. I respect any others that have done the same, regardless of what view they had.

I will say though, that I will refuse to support any politician that had promised to represent my views, but did not. Soon I will re-register as an Independent, which will allow me to either support, or reject any politician in my District regardless of his or her Party. And, I will not vote for any person that does not support my views.

But life goes on, and I won't dwell on this issue any further. After all, the majority wins, even if we all lose.
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Dark Shadows

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I've always feared darkness. As a child, I couldn't keep my head beneath the bed blankets for very long without a flash light. I'd see evil things lurking in the shadows of my room at night, and refrained from ever going outside alone under the stars. And, while working the night shift for a big part of my career, I learned even more reasons to fear the dark.

I don't think it's very odd to be afraid of the dark. I think most of us are. But darkness comes in many forms. It's a place or a means for evildoers. Whether a place to hide from pursuers, to conceal an identity, plan an attack, or to do your thing alone, it's all dark. A closet, a cave, a costume, a disguised voice, or as an imposter, darkness is a tool to be used by ones that have something to hide.

But darkness comes in many forms. Terrorists thrive in caves, as smugglers thrive in tunnels, as criminals thrive at night, as rapists lurk in bushes, as armies advance under the cover of clouds, as a submariner sinks a ship, as a panther stalks his prey, as a Jihadist begins in a mosque, as a magician wears a cloak, as the mafia propagates from a smoke filled parlor, and as an adulterer operates from that dungy motel, there are reasons to fear darkness.

So fear darkness. Recognize that it is a means of deception. Know who is in the closet or behind the curtain. Know who authored the article you just read. Know who that talk show host really is. Know who wrote that blog. Know your leader before you follow him. Know the school you attend and the church you support. Know whether he is a scammer or is truly one begging for help. Know your investment counselor, and your butcher. Know your neighbor and know who really is behind that mask.

For to know these people is to better understand their motives, and the better you understand, the safer you will be.
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Should we?

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Everyone I know has a decent car. You know the cost of car ownership and how you struggled to make your car payment, pay the insurance, purchase gasoline, or find another way around when your car broke down. And, as you worry about that, there drives by the guy in his new SUV.

Everyone I know has a telephone and television. How hard it would be to live without one? How would one call for help in an emergency, or watch Fox news every morning? And, as you worry about that, you visit someone watching his a new flat screen while talking about the ball game on his I-Phone.

Everyone I know has enough to eat. They know the cost of groceries and clip the coupons, select store brands, and cheaper cuts of meat to get along. And, as you bag those staples that you can afford, someone is waiting impatiently in line behind you with his jumbo shrimp and fillet Mignon.

Everyone I know has a home. But, they often envy those that live in the mansions on the other side of town.

Everyone I know eats out sometimes, takes a vacation, and shares fun times with friends and family. And, they watch from their Motel 6 window the others that arrive at the Hilton down the street. And, they wonder what it would be like to ride in first class, or ride in that fancy speedboat while they play on the beach with an inner tube with their children.

Everyone I know has health insurance. They get their teeth cleaned and their eyes checked routinely. And, when their kid breaks a bone, there is a place to go for help. And through their glasses, they watch others getting laser eye treatments, hair transplants and tummy tucks.

But, I know that some people don't have a car, a telephone, a television. And, I know that some people can't eat until they are no longer hungry, have a home of their own, or take a vacation. And, I know of people who have teeth removed because they can't afford a filling, and use a magnifying glass because they don't have glasses, and ride a bike or take the bus because they don't have transportation. And, I hear of people losing everything because they don't have health insurance.

So should we, as Americans, see to it that everyone has an equal amount of everything?

We already spend billions to ensure everyone who wants a telephone, has one. And, we build ramps and widen doorways so everyone in a wheel chair can get there. And, we already provide free basic medical care to those without health insurance. And, we have homeless shelters for those without a place to stay, welfare for those that don't work, can eat. And we give money to those that don't work, and give funds for those that can't afford and education.

But the question was about equality. Should we tax the guy that drives a Cadillac, forcing him it up for a Ford, and give his money to another guy so that he can also drive a Ford?

Should we tax everyone that has a cell phone to buy a telephone for those that can't afford one? Should we tax the guy that eats shrimp forcing him to eat chicken, so that everyone only can eat chicken?

Should we tax the guy that builds a nice home, forcing him to sell it, give his money to one that has no home, so that everyone can have a condo? Should we tax everyone that works, to give a salary to those that don't work?

Should we tax those that get cosmetic surgeries, and give their money to others that have little health care, so that no one gets cosmetic surgeries?

More and more, American are saying "yes" to all of this. They want socialism. They want everyone to be the same. Live the same, eat the same, earn the same amount (after taxes), take the same vacations, and fly in the same seat as everyone else. Is that what you want?

Should we be all be the same? March like ducks in a straight line behind our leader? Not aroud this Thought Dock.

Or should we continue to reward people who work hard, who are smart, and who are lucky and allow them to have more than the rest of us?
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Escaping from the coat hangers

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A while back, an anonymous person left a comment to a post asking me to write about California State Senator Roy Ashburn (Republican) and suggested that had he been Black I would have already posted about him. Actually, I had not heard the recent news about the Senator's arrest, so I researched the news link that the commenter provided.

As it turns out, Senator Ashburn represents most of Kern County, Ca., a sparsely populated region of the high dessert, known for it's oil fields that have been pumped dry, cowboys, and Tulle fog. With the advent of air conditioners and irrigation, the area has to sprawled in recent years. I suppose the anonymous commenter is from this area represented by Senator Ashburn.

Anyway, a few weeks ago, the Senator was driving around the California State Capitol when he was arrested for driving under the influence. A male passenger was in the car with Senator Ashburn, and it was learned that they had just left a Gay bar together. As the news of the arrest came out, some speculated that Senator Ashburn was Gay. A few days later, the Senator, escaped from the bondage of a dark closet, and on a live radio interview, admitted that he was, in fact-Gay.

Parts of the community (I think mostly the Gay part, and perhaps too the anonymous commenter), became outraged because Senator Ashburn had consistently voted against every measure put to him that advocated Gay equality during his 14 year tenure. Senator Ashburn responded to that outrage by stating the he did so because that was the overwhelming stance of the people that elected him.

You know, I respect this guy, although I don't like his lifestyle. I respect him because although he has personal feelings and beliefs, he votes according to the views of his constituents.

Now, that is how all elected politicians should act, not just Republican ones. They certainly should not pass the Obamacare package, knowing that the overwhelming majority of the American citizens don't want it in it's present form.

So, thanks anonymous commenter for leading me to this most fascinating story and offering your claims of bigotry.
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The truth about lies

Some of you know that I've spent a lifetime in law enforcement. The thing that bothered me the most during my career, was the lies I've heard. I've never really gotten over it, and probably never will. It seems to be a common topic of conversation with me, and yet few people really get it.

Now, it's not that I should expect one facing arrest to tell the truth, yet I do. I expect everyone to tell the truth; Always. It's nothing new. It dates back to the earliest times of recorded history and stands as a Commandment of God. Yet few of us seem to care.

What is even harder for me to understand, is when I find that a person I hold in a position of trust, lies. Whether a parent, spouse, teacher, preacher, police officer, lawyer, or politician, it is even more despicable; If that is even possible.

Now, I won't stand on a pillar, beat my chest and claim that I've never lied. However, for those that know me, know that I take great pride in my integrity. And I don't think even they can recall a lie of mine in recent times.

Now, I'm not talking about perceptions or beliefs. Although sometimes mine are pretty far out, they are always fact based and truths. I'm talking about outright lies and deceptions. They are at the very root of evil. And some people have been lying so long and so much that they justify it by claiming it's normal!

So, does it feel like I'm talking about you? I hope not because if I am talking about you, then you should not be in this forum. I just refuse to tolerate those that lie. There are plenty of other places for liars to go where they might feel more comfortable.
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Another one bites the dust

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Well, yet another famous one ends his life to drugs, this time in Los Angeles. And, he is so unimportant to me that I can't even remember his name. Is that a shame? But it does inspire Thoughts from the Dock.

After working many years in law enforcement, I've seen countless lives lost to drugs and alcoholism, that I guess I've become hardened. I've found that about 80% of the crime and suffering is directly related to narcotics. And in addition, the moral decay caused by this unethical behavior is unprecedented. So, here is my novel solution, that at first thought many of you will think of as crazy (especially my fellow cops):

We need another give-a-way program. Better than any the Long Legged MacDaddy has ever done or thought about. One that works.

First, realease all the narcotic offenders from prison and legalize narcotics..... Especially the very hard-core, addicting, and heart stopping ones. And let's make them free for the taking, courtesy of the government. Socialism at it's best.

Divert all the funding for narcotics enforcement, and use that money to buy the crap, then just give it away to those stupid enough to accept it.

Open huge centers (like unused sports stadiums) across America and set up the free distribution booths at the front door. Allow anyone over age 16 to come and get all the free dope they can use, on the condition that they can only use the stuff inside the arena.

Add a morgue wing to the opposite side of the facility to dispose of the dopes when they overdose, or when they murder someone inside.

Sound cruel? Not to me. Think about it. There would be no dope dealers on the streets because there would be no demand to by dope on the open market. There would be much less funding to terrorism. There would be no more street gangs, and no gang related murders, because there would be no reason to establish their turf. There would be far fewer liquor store and gas station robberies because the dopers wouldn't have to rob to support their habit. No more house break-ins, kidnaps for ransom, and far fewer homeless or begging on the streets. Far fewer child molestations and traffic deaths related to DUI. We would see a reduction in medical costs by reducing the amount of dopers we try to save. And prison over population would be a thing of the past, so we could keep those locked up that need to be.

Of course, the music, sports, and entertainment industries would suffer a bit as they lose their stars, but who would really care?

All those cops, DEA, and Border patrol agents would have far less to do, so that they could really concentrate on what we need like patrolling our streets, or teaching in our schools.

Eventually, narcotics would be eradicated. The hard core dopers would die one way or the other, and others would realize the evil of their ways, quit their crap and become productive people in society.

And, you think I'm crazy?
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Lake Traits

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What I look to in the Lake, can be applied to what I look for in a person. Just passing the Wisdom of the Thought Dock to you!

Be Clear

Make Positive Ripples

Look Beneath the Surface

Stay Calm

Shore up Friendships

Take Time to Reflect

Be Full of Life!
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Who's voting 'round here?

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Yesterday, I was having lunch with a small group of friends, when I suggested that one of them apparently had voted for the Long Legged MacDaddy, and Oregon's recent voter approved tax hikes.

He denied the suggestion and stated that the only ones that voted for the tax increase were people whom did not work, and therefore pay no taxes.  His point was well taken, and I began to think deeper.

Well, that made sense to me.  That's why we've been going socialistic the past 50 years, and that is why we have things the way they are today.  Since no one seems to work around here, I think he was right.  And, it will be even more pronounced tomorrow.

As the ranks of people who do not work or pay taxes, the larger the pool becomes to support socialistic issues.  And, the more taxes we will pay, until the system implodes upon itself.

For those that don't think it could ever happen to America, do some research about Argentina, where it did happen.

You know, it is you that I care about.  I have all I need.
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Remember, when the Tooth Fairy comes; Don't peek.

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In Those Days, I guess I was about ten when I began to lose my faith in dreams like Santa, the Easter Bunny, and heroes such as Superman. Yes, I know ten is a little old for that, but I was always one never wanting to give up on any of my dreams.

But, as I began to doubt these things, I lost my last baby tooth. Actually, after getting the hang of it from losing all ready seven or so, I pulled it myself, in the secrecy of my world. It didn't really hurt and there was just a bit of blood as I just reached into my mouth with a thumb and index finger and carefully extracted it.

I was pretty proud about it all, but suddenly I realized that the loss of your last baby tooth identifies the time which one is no longer a baby. And, in my case, I was then a young man. What a shocker. Such so, that I didn't tell anyone that I had pulled my own tooth.

Strange though. Although I knew I was no longer a baby, I believed the tooth ought to be worth something from the Tooth Fairy. But she never came, even after waiting for the third night.

Mom seemed to know everything, so I told her what had happened. Fearing the worst (being told there was no Tooth Fairy), I listened carefully to what she said. "Now, how can the Tooth Fairy come if your mother never summons her? You need to tell me everything about these kinds of things." Made sense to me because I was still trying to hang on to my dreams. So she told me to keep it under my pillow and the Tooth Fairy would come that night. Then, she concluded her comforting remarks by saying, "Remember, when the Tooth Fairy comes; Don't peak." It was as if she knew I was not a baby any more, but didn't want me to stop believing.

Well, the Tooth Fairy did come that night. But..... I peeked..... It was her! My mom! I laid still until she left. Then I began to cry. For suddenly, I knew there was no Tooth Fairy, and if the Tooth Fairy was not real, then neither was Santa, the Easter Bunny, or Superman!

My world changed that day, in Those Days. I was a boy. No longer a baby. I knew things were about to change more. But, I liked things the way they were. I liked cuddling with my mom, and being held tightly when I was afraid. I knew then that I would be on my own all too soon. But boys were too strong to cry, or to be held, or to believe in silly stuff. Boys were strong. They were to protect the weak, including their sisters. They were to do the lawn, and fix stuff, and get a job, and someday support a family of their own.

But, it was not a boy's job to bring the bad news about fantasies to their younger siblings, or to their own children later in life. That was left for girls to do. And that they did. Except that my mom did it in a special way. You see, she knew I would peek and find the truth myself.
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That was Yesterday. And, Yesterday is Gone.

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I've always been intrigued by listening to the stories of elders. Tales about riding in a horse drawn carriage or on a steam locomotive. And, I was envious that I had not seen the rapid change that they had. Think about Their Days when there were no refrigerators, televisions, telephones, or affordable cars. Few could travel by air, many were killed in the great wars, times of famine, hard work, and widespread poverty.

Now that I am quickly becoming an elder, I can only reflect back to Those Days. But even with that, I have experienced great change. Things that many of you have not experienced and take for granted, just like I did.

So, I'd like for you to relax and think back for a moment about the change that has occurred in just the last 50 years, then take the poll to the left. If you were not around then, I'm sure you'll recognize some from your history lessons. I'll summarize just a few.

In Those Days, Negroes could not attend many of our schools, yet they were mandated to join our armies. Some of us had telephones and televisions, yet they were always connected by wires. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and said the Lord's prayer every day in school, yet we forgot most of it by the time we got home. Women worked outside the home, but only as secretaries, nurses, teachers, or waitresses. Tattoos were taboo, yet men grew their hair long. We pledged peace, yet we waged wars. We beat baseball cards against the spokes of our bike wheels, not knowing that some would be worth thousands someday.

We played tether ball at school, after school. There were no soccer moms, yet my mom made our scout uniforms. There were no SUV's, yet there were station wagons. We had flying model airplanes, yet they flew in a circle guided by a string. They were bicycles abundant, yett none had more than 3-speeds. We didn't complain that there was nothing to watch on television, yet we had only 13 channels at most. There were no drug addicts, yet there was alcoholism.

Most households had a father, yet there were unplanned pregnancies. Our coins were 100% silver, and our currency was backed in gold. There were no credit cards, yet we managed to get what we needed by lay-a-way. And, one penny would buy a stick of gum to share with your sister. Freedom of speech didn't allow you to burn the flag, yet we got our point across. And we respected our elders, teachers, preachers, and cops, yet none of them molested us.

New roads were were built everyday, and most every family had a car, yet only one. We watched the Jetsons, yet we didn't actually think we would become one. We read a lot, yet there were no Internet blogs. We seemed to have enough to eat, yet we seldom ate out. There were Muslims, yet terrorism was unknown in America. We walked on the moon, yet no one knew why. There was Down's Syndrome, yet no one knew it until after the birth. We always had water, yet not in bottles.

I'm sure that each of you can think of many more of the good, bad, and the ugly of the past, present, and what will be in the future. Now, generally, I loved the life I had in Those Days and seem to think about it often. And, I really don't know why. I know where I am at and can see some of the things in the Coming Days, but that doesn't explain why I prefer to step back a bit.

So, where in time do you see yourself being happiest? Take the poll.
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Getting Healthy

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Has anyone ever taken a close look at their cell phone, hotel, or airfare bill? Check it out. These are just a few of the places that show evidence about what I'm aboiut to say.

They are all filled with hidden fees that you wouldn't expect. Hotel bills almost always have a bedroom tax and airlines nail you for transportation improvement fees, while cell phones have extra levis to support the 911 system, improvements for the deaf, and providing free telephone service for low income families.

So, recently San Francisco enacted a law that requires every business having more than 5 employees, to provide health insurance to their employees. Now, this past weekend, a vacationing couple entered a coffee shop, and ordered food. While they were waiting, they read the menu further. The menu reported that a 12% "Healthy Tax" is added to each food order at checkout. The couple complained and it was explained that the City forced them to provide health insurance for their employees and that they were simply passing the cost of doing business in the City to the patrons. The couple refused to pay the charge, citing that since they were not local residents, they should not be forced to support those that receive the benefit. The cops were called and when threatened with arrest, the couple paid the bill.

You know, we the People are supposed to have a say when taxes are levied. It's supposed to be on the ballot. But, so many times, our government leaders simply impose what they call "fees" on businesses, which are passed onto us. But what they call fees are actually taxes because they go to supporting the government's projects as they see fit. And, we have no say in it. Now, that is pure socialism. A forced redistribution of wealth. Just a clever way of doing it.

The San Francisco "Healthy Tax" illustrates excactly how this happens, and how the costs are passed along to the consumers. Does anyone see the similarities to the Long Legged MacDaddy's health plan. 60% of Americans do not want the system, yet we will get one, one way or another!

The post office is losing billions, while private shipping companies are making billions. Why is that? Should we really let our government run health care?
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Words of Wisdom

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This will be boring.

In Those Days, after asking my Mom whether I should be a Democrat or Republican, she replied, "Well, Democrats represent the working class, and Republicans, the rich. So, until you get rich, you'd better be a Democrat."

So. I became a Democrat. And, I think that is how just about all of us enter politics. And, so I remained until I entered the real world and began working for a living. But, it didn't take long before I changed my party, and I've been Republican ever since.

Notice that I'm not whispering words of wisdom, nor will I ever when I speak politics. I shout. I make a statement and stand by it, but not throwing insults around anonymously, or while standing in a darkened closet.

During my travels, I've had the opportunity to meet, and talk politics with a very diverse group of people. The rich, the poor, the homeless, the famous, the disabled, freaks and weirdos, and the respected. And here is what I've learned.

Party affiliation is the dominating factor one uses in voting for a candidate. But other factors include gender, race, age, looks, religion, and whether or not the candidate is widely known. Few of us ever look into the personal life of the candidate, or his/her prior voting record. Most do not know much of anything, other than what they here in the news or the paid advertisements. And, many of us simply vote for a change, even though we do not know what the candidate's performance was.

And, that is precisely why we are where we are in America. How is it that , if we chose a candidate based on his party, that when he changes his party while in office, we accept it? How is it that when we elect a politician based upon what he says he will do while in office, we do nothing when he does something different? What if we joined a Baptist church, but it changed to a Catholic one? What if we voted for a woman solely based on her gender, but through the marvel of modern medicine, she became a man.

Don't you see that many of our political candidates select a party based solely on the one that will give them the best chance of winning? Same goes when they decide when and where they will run for office. And they say what the People want to hear, but have no intention of carrying things through after they are elected.

You should be shouting about these issues, not tolerating them. "Whispering words of wisdom" and "Let it be" were laid to rest with the Beatles.
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