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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Contributions and Achievments

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In Those Days, we learned a lot about early American history. You know, those that helped found this country, and those that set it's course apart from any other country. From Christopher Columbus, the Pilgrims, the Generals, and the Presidents, to those that walked on the moon. And we studied their achievements and contributions to America, how they did it, and where we are now because of it, without much focus on their race.

So, as Black History Month comes to a conclusion, I'll share the Thoughts of the Dock with you.

I guess I was in about the 3rd or 4th grade, when my class was given a written assignment identifying one person that contributed to America. Although it was an era before the inception of Black History Month, I chose George Washington Carver for my project.

I really don't know why. Perhaps it was about his race, or that he was born into slavery, or that he was a scientist and professor at a college for Black Americans, or that he invented 300 ways to use peanuts for. But, it was more likely that I just took a liking to his name.

Yes, his name really struck me. Apparently named after a White American who many of my classmates selected to write about. It was his name, more than his achievements, that really intrigued me. Why would his Black parents name him after such a person, especially after that person was instrumental in establishing slavery in America? That's what impressed me. The Carvers truly loved America, and they were Americans even though they were Black.

Not, so for many of the Black heroes of today who most seem to denounce America, or just rape it for their own benefit. It's no wonder why our Black youth are so far outside reality. They have no leaders to follow.

Look who they have to admire. A freak like Michael Jackson, racists like Oprah Winfrey or Bill Cosby, religious leader Jesse Jackson, a savage Michael Vick, a murderer/musician Doctor Dre, the adulterers Tiger Woods, Al Shaprton, Kobe Bryant, Shaquile O'Neil, or politicians like Governor Patterson or the idiot from Illinois?

I've often wondered why our observation of Black History was only for 30 days, when no other federal mandate gets so much attention. Now, I have seen the value of that and suggest we extend the period by a few more months. Certainly, with more time, I could identify even more Blacks that are ripping America apart, and perhaps even find a Black that has contributed something aside from culture to our great country.

But, surely there are better examples of Black American contributions. What about Colon Powell or the Long Legged MacDaddy himself? But would he even qualify. He's only a halfblack.

Let's move on to a more important cause like the Jump Rope for Heart program our grandson is doing.

Enjoy your weekend. For me, every day is a weekend!
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It is what it is

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Thanks LG for contributing the following to the Thought Dock. I did modify it somewhat to better fit your screen.
Many of you are so insulated from reality when you yell and scream, "Absolutely No Profiling."
I ask you to pause a moment, take a deep breath, and reflect back on the incidents that I am about to describe. For those of you that are in disbelief, do your Snopes inquiries.
1. In 1968 Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by a Muslim male extremist between the ages of 17 and 40.
2. In 1972 at the Munich Olympics, athletes were kidnapped and massacred by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
3. In 1979, the US embassy in Iran was taken over by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
4. During the 1980's a number of Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
5. In 1983, the US Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
6. In 1985 the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked and a 70 year old American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard in his wheelchair by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
7. In 1985 TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a US Navy diver trying to rescue passengers was murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
8. In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
9. In 1993 the World Trade Center was bombed the first time by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
10. In 1998, the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
11. On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked; two were used as missiles to take out the World Trade Centers and of the remaining two, one crashed into the US Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers. Thousands of people were killed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
12. In 2002 the United States fought a war in Afghanistan against Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
13. In 2002 reporter Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
Does anyone see some kind of pattern here sufficient enough to justify a profiling? Apparently, not enough of you believe so because you routinely deny law enforcement that tool.
Hey people, Muslim male exremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40 are our enemies. Treat them as such. These are the very people that we are at way with. Have you not learned a lesson from Pearl Harbor?
Oh, I forgot. Here is yet another one: Fort Hood Texas; another Muslim 39 years old killed 13 people and wounded 30 some odd others.
And this link will sum things up from one Christian's point of view.
http://downloads.cbn.com/cbnnewsplayer/cbnPlayer.swf?aid=11991
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A RagingTiger

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My earliest memory regarding tigers came as I listened to Mom reading the story of Little Black Sambo. Since then, I've seen alot of National Geographic stories about tigers, seen some in zoos, and have watched the stage play, Lion King. One thing is for sure. I'll keep my distance from any tiger.

Ok, should be us all just bow down and forgive the Tiger just as he asks. And, while we are at it let's forgive Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Michael Jackson and Steve Garvey (I just stuck in Garvey so you all wouldn't call me a racist bigot again). They are all tigers in their way.

The claim to fame claims yet another. So, what is it that makes fame and wealth make a person feel he is above the rest of the slugs? It's not a race thing, or a gender thing, or an athletic thing, nor politician thing. It has been a clergy thing, and a movie star thing, and a criminal thing. It seems to be everywhere, and it is evil.

But, you know I expect just a bit more from those in the lime light. I would expect our Presidents, actors, athletes, and scholars to just be a cut above every one else. Yes, I know they are people just like me, and some say they have a right to their private lives. But, I don't buy into that. Their lives became public when they glamoured under the spot lights.

Surely, I've made my share of poor choices over the years, but I kept it out from under the spots. Mostly because there were no spots shining on me. And, I didn't have fans. Not that it would justify any of my poor choices anyway.

But I'm not Tiger. And I'm not a Tiger fan. Nor will I ever be, although I do respect his achievements, even though I disrespect him personally.

And, it is even more disgraceful because he is Black. You see, Blacks need a true leader. Unlike Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, or Mike Tyson, Tiger is well spoken, smart, and had the opportunity to rise just as the Long Legged MacDaddy did.

Uh Oh. I'm hungry for Sambo's.

Melie Memories

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My father's name was Melie. At least that was what I thought. I first heard it from my mother when I was a child, but in Those Days, no one would ever call his parent by their first name. So, it was kind of a sacred name to me, and I never really questioned it.

It wasn't long before I realized everyone but his kids called him Melie. His friends, his family, everyone. So I presumed that was what he wanted to be called and that he likely introduced himself by that name.

Now, I was probably well into my adolescence when I realized his real name was Emilio, and I think that came about when I happened across a letter addressed to him. A weird name I thought. No wonder why he had a nick name. When you combined "Emilio" with our last name it became kind of a tongue twister. At times, I thought of it as a romantic kind of name. But, none the less, he was "Pop" to me.

Pop was an Italian, but I was quite old before I knew that. Born here by his immigrant parents. But he passed little of his heritage on to us. Not the language, or the religion, or the music, nor anything else. I really don't know why that was, but I think he wanted us to be Americans. And he hated the mafia and thought the mafia casted a bad image on him. The only thing that he seemed to retain was his love for Italian food. Spaghetti, in particular, with lots of bread and butter. And he passed that on to me.

I can imagine Pop at the Thought Dock. He would have loved it. It's not that he was a great outdoors man. Far from that. But, he did like being outside, but close enough to be inside when it became too hot or cold. So, he could get from the Dock to the Nest in a few short steps if needed.

He had a passion for boats, but it was not like he really knew what to do with one. And, he liked water and liked to swim. And he liked barbecuing, steak in particular, and he was a great cook, when he cooked. Actually, he was a chef in a fancy restaurant at one time.

And, I miss Pop, but I'll always have the Melie Memories.
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They'll get it either way

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You know, when we moved to the Central Oregon Coast a few years ago, we were amazed at the number of State and County parks, their pristine condition, and the fact that most of them were free to use. Boat ramps, trails, fishing spots, beaches, RV dump sites, lakes, and rivers seldom had a use fee.

Well, last year, the County placed a measure on the ballot to raise taxes. The measure claimed, that the measure if not passed would force the closure of about a third of these places because of the lack of funds.

So, the measure failed by a large margin (which included my "no" vote). And the following day, even before the newspapers announced the results of the vote, the County placed "Use Fees" at every one of the sites that previously were free, and increased the fees of the existing fee sites. Seems they had the signs and collection boxes fabricated even before the vote.

Now, I'm sure all of you Fox News fans know that California is near bankrupt. And twice now, their voters have rejected voter mandated tax increases. And yesterday, I was informed that as a means to collect more money to run their programs, California has increased it's traffic fines. Already among the highest in the nation, their fines tripled in most cases. How much you ask? Well, a seat belt violation increased from $271 to over $700 (and seat belt violations are cited more often than any other). A basic speed violation of less than 15 mph over the posting is now set at $668, as is the penalty for running a red light or stop sign. And, the State claims it raised the fines in the interest of traffic safety!

"Sumtin wong, as an immigrant might say. But he would be right. Most states, including Oregon require the voters to approve any tax increase, yet they empower their legislatures to collect various fees without voter authorization. DMV, building permits, business licensing, pet registration, park fees, court fines, and toll roads are all set and collected by the state without restrictions.

So, what is the difference between a tax and a fee? Personally, I see little. Although a speeding motorist in California will pay more of a fee than a person who does not drive, and a park user will pay for the park he uses in Oregon, it is all a tax.

And, recently I heard their is an effort under way to tax soda, in an effort to get us to quit using it because it is not healthy. Kind of like the did with cigarettes. Hogwash!
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Next, they will want to tax the Thought Dock.
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Faster - Farther - Longer - Higher

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As an athlete myself, I love the Olympics. I never made it to that level, but I did sit the bench with some of the best. And, I guess I could have been better had I not dropped out of high school in the third year of my football fame.

Oh well, but I did make it to the Olympics. Not to compete, but as part of the security force for the 1984 Summer games in Los Angeles. That was quite thrilling, and I got to see some great athletes for free.

Now, I realized how close once again I am to the Olympics. Vancouver, Canada, just a day's drive north from the Thought Dock. How wonderful it would be to see the Winter games. To see them go faster, and jump farther and longer in their individual sports, would be amazing. But, what about higher?

So, I did the research. You know, back in 1984 Los Angeles, a decent seat to watch the more popular competitions, like gymnastics, were priced well under $100, with the best seats for the final events selling out at about $500. And, some lesser events could be seen for as little as $15. Most anyone could see something.

Yeah, I know 25 years have passed since the Los Angeles summer games. But, the only thing I see that is higher in Vancouver, are the ticket prices. You can't even get close to the ski jump competition for less than One Thousand Dollars, and the best seat for the finals topping out over $4500 for a single seat! And the crappiest of seats sell for $125 for the crappy events.

Yes, I could have fired up the Wheeled Manor and made the trip, but I wonder what a campsite would cost. And Wally World would likely be nix, and I'm sure the city would not allow on street parking. But even if I could get there, I'd never be able to afford to see an event. Well, perhaps curling. So, I'll just watch what I can from the comfort of home.

Makes me wonder what the motive is for the Olympics today. Somehow, like most everything else, I see it more about money profiting rather than recognizing top athletes and promoting peace.

One would think that they could at least make the medals of real metal, rather than plating them as if they are costume jewelry.
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Two Finger Submission

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While watching Spartacus the other night, I learned that a gladiator could raise two fingers to indicate he will submit. Then it would be up to the Roman leader to spare his life, or let him die at the hand of his opponent. It's kind of like saying "uncle" or "I give up." The index and the middle finger of one hand must be shown. No, not like the Nixon victory sign, but with the fingers held closely together.

Anyway, I thought it was an interesting concept for weaklings, but not for me. I'll never submit, because to do so, means to be conquered. Beaten down with all loss of pride. For me, you'll likely get the middle finger even though it might be my last act of defiance.

Some of you know that because you have tried to get me to submit. Some use the "We'll overwhelm him" tactic. Like we'll dump the grand kids on him. He'll submit, then we'll come to his rescue after a couple of weeks and pick them up. You know who you are.

And then using the same technique, two other families visited the Dock at the same time bringing all that they had. Four grand kids and four adults. " That will teach him." Think again. Right? And you know who you are too.

And one of you thought, "Let's bring our dog, and our daughter, and her dog, and make him think our friend is coming too, and that we'll stay a week or so.
Did that work, Binkie?

I survived them all without ever giving a thought for submission. But all that made me conclude that I need more room. So easy it is to fill both of our extra bedrooms, that now I have expanded.

Added to the Thought Dock is the "Nest." It's an indoor area for those that whine when it rains, or when the wind blows. Strange isn't it that those that complain the most about our weather being chilly, are the ones that awake to 12 degree temperatures where they live.

Like a basement (actually it is in our basement), playroom, cellar, man cave, rumpus room, game room, or theater, we will soon be offering the Nest for the comfort of our visitors. The Nest is kind of like the Thought Dock, but indoors, centrally heated, and soon will have a floor impervious to pet pee and grand kid play dough, and finger paints. And it will be extra room for sleep overs. It's a nest because it is green and yellow, just the right colors that ducks prefer. University of Oregon Ducks, that is. And sumday soon, it will have an entertainment theater, pool and air hockey tables, all within eye sight of the Thought Dock.

Now, try to overwhelm me again! Bring all your friends. Your favorite pets. Bibles, toys, big or small. Wine, beer, or booze; we'll drink it all!
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See ya soon! But, I'll never submit.
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Who's torching the churches?

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I assume all of you have heard about the string of 10 church arsons, most of which were in Texas. If not, it is shamefull that one would turn to the Thought Dock for news like that. But, none the less, I'll give you my thoughts.

Seems a lot of people are speculating that White supremesists (the Nazi types if you are confused) are up to that since the fires have all been in southern America. Some will think that it is just a bunch of kids out for a thrill. Some might not even think the fires are intentional but just a strange coincidence.

But has anyone (other than me) considered the arsons to be acts of terrorism? And, I'm not thinking the typical American asses around, but more along the lines of the Islamic Jihad.

Could it be? Might it be? After all, they were all predominately White Christian places of worship, the exact type of institutions and people that the Muslims have vowed to eliminate.
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The true test

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A "test" is the only real way to evaluate one's teachings.

As with the Red Robin who pushes her hatchlings from the nest high in the tree to force them to fly or die, so I did with you.

For the past few weeks, I've blogged only a time or two. But it is apparent that I have developed a loyal following. You guys, thirsting for the wisdom of the Though Dock, continue to check in, sometimes even several times a day, to quench your cravings, and comment even to posts even where there is no content. And, I appreciate that. But, get a grip!

Taking a word from the movie Avatar, Thought Dock wisdom is like the mineral "unobtainium." It's something that most of you will never obtain. But you hunger for it always. That's precisely why I have to carefully feed you the wisdom to avoid an overdose. And, that's the very reason that I have slowed down your feedings.

It was to give you all the chance to digest what you have been fed, and to see whether you can exist on your own. And many of yoy have. It is evident by the loss in pobularity of the Democratic party, the slide of the Long Legged MacDaddy, and the failures you have caused to his socialistic programs. Keep it up! I have pride for you. You've come a long way since casting your vote two Novembers ago!

But, it's those of you who leave comments to posts that have no content. You have become fat from the over feeding. You have fallen from your nests and can't fly. Like the Democrats, you can't get up and don't know where to turn.

But you are the ones that have been loyally following me like my most trusted advisers. I have felt your presense. Stalking me. Peering from the bushes. I've seen you. You know who you are.

I saw you in the buttered popcorn line at the movie theater, even though you hadn't bought a ticket because you didn't yet know what movie I was there to see. And I saw that suttle wink you gave me from behind your 3-D glasses. And I saw you in the Home Depot paint department wearing your Oregon Duck sweatshirt, knowing I was there to get those colors for the walls in my man cave.

No need to hide Come on out. It won't hurt. Take the plunge from the Thought Dock. Follow me. I'll nourish you for as long as I can.
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Blowing the roof off

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Now, here's something that causes me to wonder.

Remember that Islamic terrorist cleric that gave the Fort Hood murderer instructions for that massacre? Well, he is the same cleric that recruited and trained the explosives in the underwear Christmas Day bomber, and recruited 18 or so young blacks from the radical Chicago area. And, he claims responsibility for many more dastardly deeds against America. I'm sorry I can't remember his name, nor do I care to, but you get the point.

A few days after the Fort Hood massacre, and after this idiot praised the incident, and after learning from the Fort Hood massacrer that he received motivation from the idiot cleric, the CIA tracked him down to his hideout in Yemen. And the CIA fired a barrage of rockets into his grass and clay hut from a drone airplane, blowing it into the kingdom of Allah. But somehow, the cleric escaped with his pajamas to a waiting camel, and from there, who knows.

Now, here is the point. This idiot radical Islamic camel jockey cleric is an American. He was born and raised here. But after the 911 attack, thought it was best to denounce America, and move to Yemen where he could further his cause.

So, if we can try to asinate an American citizen in Yemen by blowing the roof off his hut, without a court order, search or arrest warrant, then why can't we do it right here in America? Makes good sense to me! But doesn't an American citizen have American rights wherever he goes that are respected by other Americans?

I don't think the MacDaddy's appointee, Eric Holder, would agree. Holder would certainly question the validity of his arrest without a warrant, and demand that he was read his rights, and given an attorney, before questioning.

You see, Holder thinks American rights apply to everyone regardless of where the live or where they were born. He thinks Miranda applies to acts of war against America weather by Americans or foreigners, and whether their assaults occur inside America or from abroad.

Now, it has been released that Holder has a financial stake in the law firm that would represent the terrorists that he brought from Gitmo to New York for trial. That seems to explain his motives.
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We Are The World - Part II

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Do you realize that it has been about 25 years since the song "We are the world" made its debut? Remember the assembly of the world's top singers to bring attention to the starving people of Africa? I seem to think it raised over 30 million dollars through private donations, and that amount then, was probably the equivalent of 30 billion in today's money. Quite an achievement. And, this will surprise most of you, but I contributed to the cause!



Now, recently it was announced that a new version of the song will soon be released to generate money for Haiti.



So, I have to ask, "Why?" Why are we doing this again? Africa has not changed one bit since the flood of money we sent. They are still starving. The are still killing one another. They are still stealing their neighbor's stuff, what ever that might be. Nigerian scams have earned untold millions more as they prey on American idiots greedy to get something for nothing. Pardon me, but if you are an idiot, or don't know what the Nigerian scam is, ask me.



And, they have killed many Americans, and plot every day to kill more through terrorism. I think our last Christmas Day want to be bomber packed his underwear full of explosives from inside Africa.



Now, you might say, "Well, this is for Haiti." But it's all the same. Haiti has been nothing but corrupt since I can remember, and I believe that will never change.



I think I'll just hum Peter, Paul, and Mary's song, "Where have all the flowers gone?" I'm not falling for this crap again.

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Asking Why

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Well, we just finished dinner, but during the feast, the subject of "Why" came up. Now, I have to say that I brought up the particular subject matter, so I'll accept the blame for those of you that will call me a bigot just for asking the question.

During dinner, the local TV news reported that Haiti has had the highest unemployment rate (over 87%) of any country in the world for the last 47 years, which is just about the time the world began keep records.

So with that, I began to wonder why that was. And, why there is no country in this world that is predominately Black, that can lay claim to being prosperous. And, that led to asking the same question about American cities. Why are there none, that I can think of, that can attest to being a showcase in this nation?

To give an equal perspective, I considered what North America was 500 years ago, and what Africa was during the same time. Seems the two were very equal in prosperity, which was little to nothing. The only difference I see was that North America was settled by predominately White Europeans, while Africa was mostly Black.

The starting line was as equal as anyone could imagine. But, why is it that our nation excelled, while no Black nation could even begin to keep up? And, why is it that the same seems to hold true when comparing prosperity in American cities?

Now, certainly there are some very successful and brilliant Black individuals in this world. But, when compared to other races, not so many by percentages. However, there seems to be far more prominent Blacks in athletics, music, and theater.

So what gives? I'm sure there is an answer to my question, but is it taboo to discuss it? If it is, I guess I'll never know, because you will never say. So, I'll always wonder whether there is a genetic link somehow.
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